Janae Time - Skincare & Cosmetics Blog

Winter Skin Care

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 14:50:40 +0000

During the winter, people bundle up to protect themselves from the harsh elements. However, the most sensitive area of the skin is often left exposed: the face.

This delicate area is the perfect target for cold winds, dry indoor air, and icy temperatures that draw moisture from the skin. As a result, the skin is often left dull, dry, and dehydrated; resulting in the deepening of lines and wrinkles on the face. Low humidity affects the skin on the body as well. Extreme dryness and cracking on hands and feet can result in irritation and itchiness. This can lead to inflammation and conditions such as eczema.

Here are a few skincare tips for your face and body during the winter months:

Use more topical moisturizing skin care products. Use a moisturizing, cream-based cleanser as opposed to a water-based one. Even clients with oily skin might experience tightness and dehydration, especially if an alcohol-based product was used during the summer. Use a good, hydrating cream on both the face and body to combat the harsh, cold winds and protect against moisture loss from the dry winter air. Avoid alcohol-based products for the skin and hair since they cause extreme dryness.

Hand sanitizers can dry out your skin, so be sure to use hand cream after washing your hands or using hand sanitizer.

Use softeners in laundry to prevent your clothing from becoming too dry, which can cause itchiness against the skin.

Over bathing can lead to extreme dryness and itchiness. Avoid taking hot baths, sitting in saunas and using hot water to wash your face and body. Shower using warm water instead. Use a moisturizing body wash instead of soap. After a bath, pat skin dry and apply an emollient moisturizer onto slightly damp skin to trap in moisture.

Don't forget sun protection even in the winter months. UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes and they reflect off snow, so an even higher SPF should be used

Use a lip balm that leaves a protective layer to keep lips from cracking. Avoid licking the lips, since this habit tends to dry them.

Add these tips into your daily regimen and skin care routine to combat the challenges of cold winter months so you and your skin can be sure to enjoy the season!

Traveling and Your Skin

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 16:11:32 +0000

Traveling is one of life's most rewarding experiences - new adventures await at every destination.

Skin can be a bit finicky when reacting to a new climate whether it's airplane air, harsh conditions, sun exposure, or pollutants and toxins.

Let's begin with airplane air. It's dehydrating and irritating resulting in flaky, dull skin. Due to airplanes being so dry and having no moisture in the air, it's important to use a good moisturizer that seals in your own moisture while on the plane or in a similarly dry environment.

When traveling for an adventurous outdoor vacation harsh conditions like wind, sun and dry air found at high altitudes are unavoidable. The key to combating dehydrated skin is moisture inside and out. Drink plenty of water before, during and after a trip along with a good moisturizer. If possible use a hydrating mask while on the trip making your skin less vulnerable to damage.

Although there's nothing like relaxing in the sun to ease stress, the damaging effects cause wrinkles, sunspots and even melanoma. The accumulation of the sun's damage through the years beginning as a child does not show up on the skin as brown pigmentation and wrinkles until after age 30. While on a beach vacation drink plenty of water and wear your sunscreen. If you do get a burn resist picking off the flakes of peeling skin. This will damage the skin further by preventing it from healing properly.

Be aware that the sun's strength can be magnified by the surroundings. Elevation increases the intensity to the sun's rays. Significant time spent on concrete or in water will increase sun damage as well because of the reflection off these surfaces.

If you're heading for a big-city excursion there is risk of pollutants and toxins which can accelerate aging. Products containing antioxidants, such as Vitamin C will rid the complexion of toxins and fight free radicals that dwell in pollution and chemicals. Stay away from cigarette smoke and drink plenty of water which helps flush toxins from the skin.

Wherever you stay, be sure to pack your skincare and don't be caught needing to use soap in the shower to wash your face because you didn't pack anything else. Soap strips the skin of it's essential protective oils leaving your skin vulnerable to irritation and dryness.

One of your main priorities when you return home after all that travel is to relax and restore a sense of normalcy and balance to your life. Be sure to get back into full swing of your skincare regimen.

Men's Skincare 101

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 15:41:57 +0000

Do you have husbands, fathers, brothers, sons or guy friends that could use a little help in their skincare routine? Here are some tips on how we can be sure that the men in our lives are taking care of the health of their skin.

Men's skin is quite different from a woman's skin. It's thick, it can be oily, most of the time it's dehydrated and oh, the facial hair!

The two main reasons are testosterone and shaving. Testosterone makes men's skin 20-30% thicker than a woman's with more collagen and elastin overall. Men's skin also tends to be more oily. The bonus? Men show signs of aging more slowly than women.

One of the biggest differences between men and women is the beard. Everyday while shaving he is stripping away protective layers leaving the skin more susceptible to irritation and sensitivity.

Ingrown hairs are a common problem. To reduce the risk, shower first before shaving allowing hair follicles to be softened from the steam. Also use a facial scrub 2-3 times per week before shaving which also preps the skin. Don't forget that men need anti-aging products as well. Look for ones that can multi-task. Men want solutions to their skin problems, but it can't be complicated.

Skin cancer and men: Men over 50 are more than twice as likely as women to develop and die from skin cancer. A recent study showed that men spend an average of 36 hours in the sun per week (10 more than women). They are less likely to wear sunscreen and have fewer visits to the doctor. Men often develop skin cancer on the scalp, ears, back, shoulders and chest - areas that are exposed more than women.

Janae Recommends:
Foaming Facial Refiner
Cell Youth Actif
Advanced Protection SPF30

Men need to take those few extra moments in their day to be sure their skin is exfoliated, nourished and protected, so they too can have a better overall skin health for life.

Exfoliate for Radiant, Smoother Skin

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 15:36:18 +0000

Is your skin showing signs of being dull, dry or flaky? Are there clogged pores, blemishes, or an uneven skin tone?

Exfoliation is the best home treatment to rid these problems for a healthier, more radiant and younger skin. As we age, the process of cell turnover slows down dramatically. The purpose of exfoliating is to remove accumulated excess old dead cells which in turn increases production of vibrant new healthy cells. It also prepares your skin for the specific treatment products you're using. They will be absorbed more easily giving you better results.

There are two types of Exfoliants - Physical and Chemical

Physical Exfoliants are scrubs that you apply to moist skin, massage in, and then remove with warm water. This type is for all skin conditions with the exception of blemished/acne-prone skin. It may be used 1-2 times per week for mild resurfacing. If you feel your skin is needing a deeper skin resurfacing such as peels or microdermabrasion, visit a skin professional who will be able to suggest the right treatment for your skin condition.

Be careful not to over-exfoliate. The goal is to exfoliate with minimal irritation. Be sure to only use facial-type exfoliators, not body scrubs on your face. Don't use any scrub with any rough, coarse, uneven texture that can cause skin damage by tearing into the skin as it abrades away the surface. This could cause tiny tears that damage the skin's barrier. Use creme based or micro-beaded suspensions.

Chemical Exfoliants such as Glycolic or Salicylic is a leave on exfoliant that is applied after cleansing and is for oily, acne-prone and for sun-damaged skin. This type of exfoliant is best for an acne-prone skin that you don't want to be over-stimulated by massaging in a product. A leave on exfoliant treatment gives you a low concentration of acid on a daily basis. It will keep your pores from getting clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria which is what causes breakouts. Glycolic also helps with lightening discoloration areas and with scarring.

It's important to note that you should always be diligent with sunscreen while using AHA's like Glycolic Acid or BHA's Salicylic as your skin is much more susceptible to sunburn.

Aging, Dry, Normal Skin
Janae Recommends: Crystal Clarity Microdermabrasion Creme

Normal, Combination, Oily
Janae Recommends: Foaming Facial Refiner

Oily, Acne Prone Skin & Sun Damaged Skin
Janae Recommends: Glycolic Gel Renewal

Enjoy a healthier skin by getting in a routine of exfoliating.

Sunless Tanning

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 15:15:16 +0000

Tan the healthier way - with sunless tanning. It gives your skin the glow you desire without the harmful UV ray exposure.

So what are the choices?

Spray Tans
Lotions
Gels
Creams

How does a sunless tan actually work?

The main ingredient in a sunless tanning product is DHA (dihydroxyacetone). DHA is an FDA approved, sugar based ingredient, typically derived from beets or sugarcane, which reacts with the top layer of the skin to turn it a brown or tan color. This color takes up to several hours to fully develop. Users are advised to avoid washing, swimming, and if possible, sweating heavily for up to eight hours after a sunless tanning session. The color doesn't wash off, but it gradually fades within a few days as the dead skin cells slough off.

Spray Tans - DHA spray-tanning booths are not approved by the FDA. Products with DHA may be applied to the skin except in areas of the eyes or mucous membranes, such as the lips. Adverse events have occurred in spray tanning booths and include dizziness, coughing, or fainting. Instead, choose the sunless lotions, gels, or creams that are applied by hand.

Will sunless tanning products protect me from the sun?

Most sunless tanning products do not contain UV protection. Still wear your sunscreen!

How to apply sunless tanning products?

To get the most natural even-looking tan you need to exfoliate first. Shave your legs before applying product. Apply evenly and use sparingly on elbows, knees and ankles. Let it dry completely before dressing.

Is Sunless tanning my only option?

There is no such thing as a safe outdoor tan. In actuality, the skin responds to tanning as an injury inflicted by sun exposure by producing melanin, which creates the bronze glow. Therefore, every time you tan, you do cumulative damage to your skin, accelerating the aging process with pre-mature wrinkles, age spots and of course skin cancer. Childhood sunburns and exposure to UV rays are risks for melanoma.

Tanning beds are not an option - countries are beginning to ban these devices.
Indoor tanning is associated with melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, damage to eyes, and premature skin aging, such as wrinkles and sun spots. There are many young people who suffer from melanoma and many of them are women.

Find the beauty in your natural skin color and not risk your health by tanning. If you want the sun-kissed look - go for the Sunless Tanning - the only safe option!

Mascara - Water-Resistant or Waterproof?

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:33:28 +0000

So what is the difference?

Water resistant mascara can withstand water and tears.
Waterproof mascara can be submerged in water.

Water resistant mascara is much more gentle on the eye area which is crucial for anti-aging. It also has the benefit of being much easier to remove while still providing the resistance to water or tears to prevent running and smudging throughout the day.

Waterproof mascara however needs to be removed with a Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover which is oil-based, specifically designed for this type of mascara. The chemicals used in Waterproof mascara are harsh and drying, which can make the delicate lashes brittle and cause breakage or fall out. It can also be quite irritating to sensitive eyes and contact wearers. With waterproof mascara being harder to remove, you can end up rubbing and pulling on the eye area way too much. Without gentle care, it can be easy to irritate the skin around your eyes or even develop an eye infection.

I prefer and recommend to not use an oil-based eye remover on a daily basis.
Learn more about your eye makeup remover here.

I also recommend to change out your mascara every 3 months and to never share your mascara with anyone. If you ever do develop an eye infection, discard the tube immediately and start with a fresh tube once your eye has healed.

How to Remove a Water Resistant or Waterproof Mascara:

Apply Eye Remover to cotton pad
Press gently on the eye, holding for a few moments
Allow the product to dissolve the mascara
Swipe in a downward motion
Gently wipe the underside of your lashes

You may need to repeat these steps, but this is the most gentle on the eyes and the lashes.

Water-Resistant Mascara is best for daily use.
Save the Water-Proof for swimming and special occasions!

Janae Recommends: HD Mascara
Janae Recommends: Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

Safe Fun in the Sun! The Guide to Sunscreen

Wed, 09 May 2012 14:50:33 +0000

Everyone loves being outside on a beautiful summer day! Not everyone however realizes the sun's affects on our skin. Studies show that 90% of all visible signs of aging can be traced to sun exposure.

Sunscreens help prevent the sun's (UV) radiation from reaching our skin. Sun damages our skin and increases our risk of skin cancer. It causes wrinkles, laxity, broken blood vessels, pigmentary issues, and rough skin appearance. It is absolutely necessary that we add protective precautions to our daily routine. And it's easy! Sunscreen can be found in daytime moisturizers and even makeup foundations. Ensure that your products have broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.

There are two types of sunscreen: Chemical that absorbs the UV rays and Physical that blocks and reflects UV rays. You need sun protection that contains both of these plus antioxidants to give you the full-spectrum protection. Chemical filters can sometimes cause irritation, allergic reactions, and burning eyes when perspiring. Physical filters zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are easier for the skin to tolerate.

The following ingredients protect you from both UVA and UVB rays and are what I recommend to look for in a sunscreen product:

Zinc Oxide
Titanium Dioxide
Benzophenones

NOTE: Avobenzone only protects you against UVA rays and Octinoxate only protects you against UVB rays.

Zinc and Titanium are particles that reflect the UV rays, whereas Avobenzone absorbs the UV rays and turns them into heat and then dissipates it. Avobenzone should NOT be worn by anyone who has rosacea, a skin condition that worsens in the presence of heat.

The problem with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide you might say, is that they make you look pasty and white. This is no longer the case with transparent micronized Zinc and Titanium. The smaller particle size allows them to go on more smoothly without leaving a white cast on the skin.

I prefer using a broad spectrum sunscreen separate from my moisturizer. If I am outdoors and need to reapply, I reapplying sunscreen and not moisturizer. This way I can use the same moisturizer at night as well. For daily protection, apply moisturizer first and then apply sunscreen.

Limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen reduces the risks of skin aging, skin cancer, and other harmful effects of the sun. If you'll be outdoors, apply 20-30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours. Take the necessary step and add sunscreen to your skincare regimen. It's quite simply your best anti-aging product!

Janae Recommends: Advanced Protection SPF 30

PS! A question I frequently receive is "Does layering several SPF products increase my sun protection?" and the answer is it does not. You are only protected to the extent of the highest rating of one product.

Do you have any sunscreen questions? Post a comment below!

Radiant Bride - Makeup Tips for Your Wedding Day

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:26:56 +0000

It's wedding season and your wedding day makeup should look flawless, natural and reveal the most beautiful you! If you are the bride, this is the most photographed day of your life! Let's be sure you look the best for your big day!

Start with your skin and be sure it looks even and smooth. If you haven't started a basic skin care regimen, now is the time. Preferably at least one month before your wedding day.

Ensure a picture perfect day - these beautiful memories will last a lifetime!

Janae's Makeup Tips for the Bride:

Prep skin with a moisturizer. Avoid sunscreens as they reflect too much light for photography.

Face Primer is ideal to neutralize skin imperfections, diminish the appearance of fine lines and increase makeup wearability. Apply over moisturizer or use alone.

Eye Primer neutralizes discoloration from the brow bone down to the lid, thus giving the eye area a perfect canvas for true color as well as hours of long-lasting eye shadow wearabliity without fading or creasing.

Foundation should look and feel like a second skin. The more natural looking the better. Oil-free foundations with long wearing properties are best to use.

Use two shades of blush. First a neutral shade from the apples of the cheeks to the hairline and then apply a pink to rosy shade just to the apples of the cheeks. This will gives a more natural glow with a pop of color.

Illuminating powder can be used. Only apply to the areas that you want to highlight and enhance, like top of cheekbones. If applied all over the face, you will look unnatural and your face will look shiny and oily in pictures.

Enhance the eyes with a soft shimmering eyeshadow on the lid and use a sheer matte finish eyeshadow in the crease of the eye and under the brow. If the eyeshadows are too pearlized under the brow, the area will reflect the light creating a bright spot above the eyes in photographs. Eyeliner should be applied close to the lash line for the most natural definition and try and stay away from black eyeliner which can be too harsh for most skins.

Brows should be filled in lightly with a brow powder color that matches your hair color. Your brows frame your face, so don't forget them.

Mascara will make the eyes look larger and stand out. Curl the lashes with an eye lash curler before mascara application. To avoid mascara buildup and caterpillar lashes, apply thickener before mascara. This will condition and add depth and dimension to your lashes. In most cases, having to use only one coat of mascara will be all that is necessary. The lashes will look fuller and more natural.

When using mascara on the bottom lashes, use a soft brown so it will not cast shadows under the eyes. It will look more natural and balanced to the top lashes. Water-proof Mascara "of course".

Long lasting lip color, line the lips as well as entire mouth. Apply lipstick (in the same color family). Blot the lips and apply lipstick again. Or try a long-lasting lipstick that's formulated to stay on for hours. Pinks, roses and plums are a great choice.

How Our Sleep Position Affects Our Skin

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:09:48 +0000

We all know how much better we feel when we get a great night sleep! Getting enough sleep has to become a conscious priority. A lesser known fact is that how we sleep can affect our aging!

Here are three great tips to avoid additional aging to your skin!

Avoid sleeping with your face touching your pillow.
Sleeping with your face touching your pillow is proven to be one of the major causes of permanent deep lines and wrinkles. We have all woken up with these annoying creases on our faces.

Certain positions night after night leads to sleep lines - wrinkles that become etched onto the surface of our skin. Sleeping on your side can cause wrinkles on cheeks and chin while sleeping face down can give you a furrowed brow.

The most ideal way to sleep is on your back. It's been proven not only to help prevent wrinkles, but it also provides a number of other great health benefits too!

Consider a silk pillow case.
If you wake up with sleep lines, another cause may be that your skin is being pulled by the pillow case. Movement at night paired with a unforgiving pillow case may cause crease lines in your skin.

With silk, your skin is able to slide easily and won’t get tugged or pulled against your pillow at night.

Sleep slightly elevated to prevent eye puffiness.
The skin underneath our eyes is very thin. One of the main causes for eye puffiness is due to water pooling in that area and gravity weighing down while we sleep.

To prevent this from occurring, sleep with your head slightly elevated.

Try these tips for yourself! You'll be pleasantly surprised to see some real changes when you look at your beautiful face in the mirror first thing in the morning!

The Power of Sleep

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:12:20 +0000

Beauty sleep is not a myth! It is absolutely real! Sleep is the ultimate gift we can give to both our bodies and our skin.

Most of us require seven to eight hours of sleep per night, with very few who can get by with less. There are those who don't think they need to meet this minimum, but as a result, they are actually aging at an accelerated rate.

What happens to your skin while you are sleeping?

Sleep is the time when our body is able to heal, repair, and replenish itself. While we sleep our skin is replacing collagen and elastin that has been damaged by sun exposure, stress, and environmental pollutants. Cell turnover is eight to ten times faster during this time! Due to this regeneration period, your skincare products can penetrate deeper and absorb better while you sleep. Right before bed is the perfect time to slather on your stronger, targeted skincare products.

Lack of sufficient quality sleep can lead to accelerated aging. Pale skin, dark circles, puffy eyes, and non-rosy cheeks are all signs of sleep deprivation. Definitely not the look we're going for! Experts and researchers have proven that sufficient sleep each night has a definite correlation to our skin looking younger, healthier and more radiant.

Start tonight by giving your skin the ultimate gift - sleep!