If there’s anyone that can show you how to style your ETSIS hat, it’s the CEO of our company. I’m pretty sure I can say that she is the ultimate SunEscaper!
Last week’s Sun Stylish was all about color blocking, and well…we’re clearly not getting over that trend anytime soon. Check out Devra’s color blocked inspired look from Mother’s Day weekend.
Sassy!
ETSIS ResortEscape hat
American Apparel leggings.
Robert Rodriguez top (no longer available). Nice options here and here (to add yet another block of color!).
Coach slippers (no longer available). Options here and here.
In addition to this month being Skin Cancer Awareness month, it is also the anniversary month of reggae legend Bob Marley’s death. The cause of Marley’s death, melanoma. The Huffington Post tells us why skin cancer in African Americans cannot be overlooked.
Prevention Online breaks down their top choices for natural sunscreens. Natural, eco-friendly, and they work. What more could you ask for?
On Dr. Cynthia Bailey’s blog, they’re talking about mineral makeup. Mineral makeup is always something that’s being used by at least one of our team girls here. See how you can simplify your makeup routine with just one product.
The changes in sunscreen labeling aren’t happening as soon as we thought. The official date being pushed back to December of this year, instead of this summer. So please, please educate yourself in sun protection and be weary of misleading labels.
Sun protection for your hair. Is this something you overlook? The Skin Cancer Foundation breaks down some interesting facts about your hair and the sun.
Work out, and be super cute in work out gear with UPF 50 thanks to Lululemon! We’re LOVING the Sun Chaser series.
Don’t forget, Friday May 18th is Put on Purple Day. Wear purple and show your support for Lupus Awareness.
It’s no secret that here at ETSIS we’re alittlemadforbeautyproducts, and if you’re the same way as us you’ve probably heard about BB creams. Not sure about what BB creams are? Depending on who you ask, BB can stand for beauty balm or blemish balm and has been wildly popular in the Asian beauty market. BB creams claim to provide coverage, higher SPF, act as a primer, brighten skin, are infused with antioxidants and anti-aging properties; it is basically everything you wish your tinted moisturizer did. Mae and I have used BB creams in the past; namely brands more widely known in the Asian market like Missha, Skin79, and SkinFood, but we were curious about the products being blasted into the American beauty market. So of course, I sweet talked Devra and Jennifer into joining in on this too (they weren’t hard to persuade, really.).
And so began our ETIS BB Brawl! Round 1:
Product: Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse BB Beauty Balm SPF 25/PA+++ Reviewer: Devra Wathen, CEO of ETSIS hats Skin Type: Normal to dry, sun sensitive Skin Tone: Fair with beige undertones Age Range: 55+ Daily Makeup Routine: Antioxidant serum, SPF 30+ sunscreen, and lip balm for day. Full face makeup with sunscreen for events.
What did you like about the product? I like the concept of the different beauty benefits, and could see it being a convenient item to bring when I’m traveling and don’t want a big makeup bag. What didn’t you like about the product? I am confused as to how a product has whitening agents, yet can still protect enough for you to be out in the sun. The SPF also is not high enough to protect me, it was 25. It should be at least 30. I prefer my sun screens to contain zinc. The color was also not suitable for my skin tone. It left me kind of ashy and grey. Would you continue using this product? I prefer my product to do what it needs to do, and layer them properly, instead of combining them all in one supposed “super product”. I don’t feel like you get the desired results from your skincare by combining products like this.
Product: Boscia BB Cream SPF 27/PA ++ Reviewer: Jennifer Lindsey, Executive Assistant for ETSIS hats Skin Type: Dry combination, oily T-zone Skin Tone: Extremely fair with pink undertones Age Range: 26-35 Daily Makeup Routine: Sunscreen SPF 30, Powder, Bronzer and tinted lip balm.
What did you like about the product? You can save a lot of money because you don’t have to use as many products, since BB cream is supposed to replace primer, moisturizer, anti-aging, foundation and concealer. Boscia is a mostly natural brand, no parabens, GMOs, sulfates, ETC. I liked the shade–it worked on my fair skin. What didn’t you like about the product? Color selection is limited, so while it worked on me, it probably won’t work for darker or medium toned women. One size fits all doesn’t apply here. When my skin is dry or broken out, the product highlights the problem area, and once it dries, it totally sets! It’s only got PA++, so not the highest UVA protection. Would you continue to use this product? Maybe… if I’m not breaking out or dry. It’s pretty good for if I’m having a good skin day.
Have you used either the Dr. Jart or the Boscia BB creams? What do you think? Perhaps the Dr. Jart Premium BB Cream would fare better than the Water Fuse? Will the creams that we test next time have better luck with us than the Boscia? Next week, Mae and I will be duking it out between Smashbox and Garnier. Stay tuned.
Last week, we featured Mae wearing our TravelEscape hat in olive.
This week yours truly is wearing the ResortEscape hat in aqua with some custom ETSIS fashion panels. Color blocking has been trending for a while, and clearly I am not tired of it. I think it’s a great look for warmer months. It was fun shooting with Mae, we might just have to post live outfits more often!
ETSIS ResortEscape hat
American Eagle tank. Similar here, get more coverage with this option.
Pac Sun jeans. Similar here and here.
Marc by Marc Jacobs bag (color no longer available). Yellow options here and here.
A sad, sad story of a New Jersey woman’s tanning addiction. Everyone seems to be talking about it this week. What say you?
On a lighter note, you’ve got 10 days left to join the Walk for Lupus Now walk. Not in New York City (we’re not!)? You can still show support as a “virtual walker”. More info here.
May is also Lupus Awareness Month. Join our friends The Lupus Foundation of America for Put on Purple Day on May 18th. Many people have never heard of or know what Lupus is. That’s a conversation we need to start.
Brunettes, ever notice that dry shampoo doesn’t seem quite right on us? That’s because we weren’t using dry shampoo for brunettes! Who would’ve thought? Beautylish steers us right once again.
Speaking of “that tanning lady,” SNL did a skit on that one! We love Kristen Wiig.
The month of May is Skin Cancer Awareness month. And in honor of that we’re revisiting a blog from our CEO Devra, who is well in-tune with her skin and overall wellness. This blog was originally posted November 2011 here.
There was a time when I couldn’t wait to greet the summer sun, feel its rays upon my skin and seek out the perfect tan that I thought was the epitome of health and beauty. Now, at 55, those same rays that I welcomed so readily have transformed me into someone who is forced to live my life in the shade.
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma. Together they will affect more than 1.3 million people this year–more than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers combined.
What do all these skin cancers have in common? Their cause: long-term exposure to ultraviolet light, otherwise known as UVA.
UVA light does more than age your skin (remember: UVA = aging, UVB = burning). Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause damage to specific genes in your DNA that is responsible for controlling cell division. When these genes are damaged or mutated, and are not repaired properly, they malfunction, and in some cases cause cells to divide uncontrollably. When that happens, a tumor develops and the result is cancer.
The danger of UVA is everywhere. Unlike UVB which burns hottest in the middle of the day, UVA is as strong at 7am as it is at noon and at sunset. It penetrates through windows, loosely woven clothing and even plastics, damaging the skin on your face, hands and arms as you drive–without you even noticing.
While this may sound scary, it brings me back to the reassuring statistic that more than 90% of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure, which means 90% of skin cancers are preventable.
Here are the five facts to get you thinking about–and hopefully taking steps toward–protecting your skin.
90% of all skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun.
That’s 90%! I’ve said it before, but it’s still astounding to me because according to the American Cancer Society, 90% of all skin cancers are preventable. Sadly, fewer than 33% of Americans routinely use skin protection.
80% of how your skin ages is up to you.
In their book, Write Your Skin a Prescription for Change, dermatologists Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields (of Proactive fame) state that our genes account for only 20% of how our skin will age. In other words, we have control over 80% of our skin’s health!
Only 23%of your lifetime dose of UVA has been accumulated age 18.
Every decade, we add another 10% of UVA damage. So, covering up from the sun can keep your skin looking younger while everyone else ages. How’s that for making your girlfriends jealous?
One blistering burn when you are young can double your chances of developing skin cancer as a adult.
As a parent, that’s frightening, especially because sun damage is cumulative. Now is the time to start your children on good sun-prevention habits.
There is no such thing as a healthy tan.
Freckles and tans are your skin’s way of reacting to injury by the sun. Look and feel the skin inside your arm; this is how all your skin would be without exposure to the sun.
So, why don’t we all cover up?
I’ll be honest here. Sometimes it’s vanity. What fashionable woman would wear a lovely dress and don one of those bulky, floppy outdoor hats made for mountain climbing? And although sunscreens do a good job of blocking UVB, they’re less effective at stopping UVA. It wasn’t until my skin became so sun-sensitive and I had to pin towels (yes, towels) to the sides of my hat that I knew I needed protection.
Reflective sunlight can be just as damaging as direct sunlight, so I developed ETSIS hats with SunEscape Protection Panels as a fashionable way to protect my face and neck while “Escaping The Sun In Style”. Do you have a skin cancer story or preventive idea you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you.
Aloha,
Devra Wathen
P.S.
Facts listed above are from pages 52, 2, 49 and 21 of Write your skin a prescription for change (link to: http://www.amazon.com/Write-Your-Skin-Prescription-Change/dp/0982460805/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1308127069&sr=8-1) by Katie Rodan, Kathy Fields and Lori Bush. It’s one of my favorite resources for skincare and covers everything from day to day skin care to the latest in treatments for specific skin conditions such as Melasma, Acne, and most of all damage done by the SUN.
Pardon me for using a Wiz Khalifa song title, but what other way is there to describe our newest addition to the ETSIS team; Mae, in our TravelEscape hat? Mae and I had so much fun playing with the hats in the ETSIS inventory that we couldn’t help ourselves with an impromptu photo shoot.
TravelEscape hat in Olive, tie-back style.
The Easy Snap-In
Similar top found here.
Not similar, but this would be a fun option to layer underneath.
Get your leggings here.
In a personal blog post, Mae tells us where she got that belt pictured!
And of course, shoes make the outfit. Similar leopard print wedges found here.
Young. Wild. Free. Pretty much sums it all right?
Actually…Young. Wild. Free. Sun. Protection. That’s more like it.
Summer 2012 is just around the corner, and it’s time for my yearly IPL or Intense Pulse Light Treatment for removing brown spots. Now that the technology has been improved upon, I am hoping that this will be my last treatment.
You might wonder why I need a yearly IPL. Firstly, it is important to know the generation I am from: Prehistoric–before sun protection really became a hot topic. Thirty plus years ago, we knew we could get burned and that it could hurt, but that was the collateral damage that went along with trying to get that beautiful, golden deep tan we were all striving for. We would even use Iodine and baby oil to enhance our color. Big no-nos in today’s beauty rules!
Sun damage splotches surface after an IPL.
Okay, so the moral of the story is that, after 45 years of sun exposure, I have some pretty deep sun damage. When I was younger, we didn’t know that the sun is responsible for 90% of our aging and directly destroys your collagen and elastin. You may think you just have a lot of freckles now because you are young, but trust me, for each freckle you have you will have an even larger and uglier, brown spot that you will hate when you get older. Just another reason to embrace Sun Protection now!
My Experience – Those Darn Brown Spots!
As I got older, my sun damage really showed up in the form of brown spots, age spots, and even some of my Melasma returned, which the doctor told me was hormonal as well assun-induced. It was becoming more difficult to conceal with makeup. So about seven years ago I started this journey to rid myself of all my sun damage (or as much as possible) and to embrace SunEscaping instead of Sun Worshiping. I had my first IPL treatment in 2005. I became obsessed with protecting my skin from the sun and learning all I could about anti-aging and the effects the UVA/UVB had on my skin.
Years of sun damage brought to the surface after my IPL treatment.
Super-charged Lasers
In a recent issue of New Beauty Magazine, the Beauty Editors featured an editorial on super-charged laser treatments, one of which was the IPL. Intense Pulse Light Therapy treatment is type of Non-Ablative laser treatment. This means that it does not create any type of wound-induced results. The light brings brown spots to the surface and breaks up the pigmentation, making them much lighter in appearance or disappearing all together. Treatment helps with softening some fine lines, improving skin texture and in the past, has helped my skin look brighter as well. Personally, I thought it helped tighten my skin as well.
The New Laser
The newer IPL laser machines take four to six treatments over a period of 3-4 months. In contrast, my first IPL treatment was at a higher level of intensity and I only had one treatment every few months after the first to gradually diminish my sunspots. Doctors now are going for lower transmittal beam with a series of treatments to help avoid the chance of hyperpigmentation or any type of scabbing. (I did read that some people might get some scabbing, but honestly, I have never had that happen to me.) Prior to having your IPL like any laser treatment make sure you stop using any Retinoid or retinol products at least 7-10 days prior to appointment.
What to Expect
My arm right after an IPL treatment
The doctor will give you a topical anesthetic for the target area before the laser treatment. (I take some Ibuprofen.) The laser feels like a rubber band snapping. Be prepared for a little “ouch time”, depending on your threshold for pain. Initially, you will look like you have sunburn, which will fade within the first 48 hours. Then it takes about 7-10 days for the brown spots to break apart and fade. My face, chest, arms and hands looked like one massive freckle–a little scary at first. Once you have an IPL treatment, you might want to consider protecting your face, arms, chest, or hands with more than just sunscreen.
During/After Skin Care
After your treatment, be very gentle with your skin care routine and avoid the sun at all costs!! Your skin will be sensitive to damage. Do not exfoliate; do not use your Clarisonic, facial scrubs or a wash cloth. I highly recommend cleaning with a gentle cleanser such as Eminence Coconut Milk Cleanser or any mild cream cleanser. Use luke warm water, not hot! Moisturize like crazy. Again, you will want to protect your exposed skin in addition to sunscreen.
My Personal Follow Through
Following my first IPL treatment, over the next couple of years I had IPL treatment annually and reached the best results the doctor and I thought I could achieve. Keep in mind, I only did my IPL treatment once a year, because we used higher intensity pulse with the laser a few years back.) The rest was up to me to practice good skincare and to stay out of the sun. Nowadays, I always cover my face with an ETSIS Hat, sunglasses, long sleeve shirt and even gloves–especially when driving. The left side of your face gets the most damage from prolonged sun exposure when driving. Compare for yourself.
My hands after an IPL.
So for the past 7 years I have been getting IPL treatments for my face, décolletage, arms and hands, to help rid these very exposed areas of all these unsightly spots. It really isn’t attractive–kind of like a bad tattoo, in my opinion. When I think about how long it took me to acquire all this sun damage, it only makes sense that it would take me a few years to reverse it and change how my skin looks. I have tried most over-the counter-fading creams with very limited success and prefer the IPL Laser. The laser brings sunspots that are visible, and even those that are deeper, to the surface. Then the spots turn dark, break apart and fade away. One thing to keep in mind is that sun damage is very deep and, as we age, it will keep appearing and therefore why I had to have a series of treatments.
With each treatment I have been able to gradually rid 90% of my sunspots. I think after this last treatment, I will have reached Nirvana.
I would like to introduce myself – My name is Devra, I am 55 years old and obsessed with trying to reverse all the sun damage I have accumulated over the years. I spent most of my life living in two of the sunniest places: Denver, Colorado and Honolulu, Hawaii.
It wasn’t until I moved to Hawaii and was recommended to a top dermatologist, Dr. Kevin Mott, for Restylyn filler in 2006, that he commented about my sun damage. His nurse, Kim then proceeded to put my face into a computerized screening program and I was able to see just how much photo sun damage I really had. OMG, I was in shock. I also had about 4 or 5 spots that were precancerous and had to be burned off. Since my first appointment in 2006, I have become part of the SunEscaper Revolution. I have worked diligently to reverse the sun damage accumulated over the past 30 plus years. I follow a good skin care routine and stay out of the sun and when I can’t, I cover up from head to toe.
Now, you might be wondering what or who a SunEscaper is and I will get to that soon, but more importantly, over the next several months I will be sharing the journey of my Skin’s Destiny and the journey back from sun damage. I will be sharing with you my skin care experiences including: before & after pictures and videos, treatments I have had, products I have used, or am currently using, and great at home skin care tools to have in your arsenal. I will also be sharing some of my favorite books and magazine articles that I have found interesting and informative, and hope you will too.
I hope you enjoy what you read and if you take one thing away from this, it’s that – I’ts never too late to start taking care of your skin. It’s much easier to start the right skincare regimen NOW, than it is to reverse all the cumulative photo sun damage by the time you get 30, 40, or 50. ETSIS Hats & Apparel, an acronym for “Escaping the Sun In Style™” is my company and dedicated to helping people with both clinical and lifestyle needs find a smart, trendy and attractive solution to help them Escape The Sun In Style. During team ETSIS internal discussions about sun precaution and skin care we developed our own terminology which will be used throughout my blog:
BLOG TERMINOLOGY
SUNESCAPER: Individuals who are very proactive in protecting their skin from free radicals, the harmful UVA/UVB rays, and environmental elements such as airborne bacteria, etc. SunEscapers always use sunscreen or sun block, wear a good sun hat (like an ETSISHats.com) and proper clothing when necessary.
SUNESCAPING: The act of Escaping The Sun in Style™.
SUNOLOGY: All about the sun and the effects it has on our skin. The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly truth about sun precaution like: Did you know, no one is born with freckles?
SKINOLOGY: Anything directly related to skin care products, treatments, sensitive skin conditions, such as Acne, Melasma, Rosacea, Vitilogo, Hyper-pigmentation, and yes the worst of all, skin cancer.
HEALTHOLOGY: Looking great on the outside because what is going in your mouth is good for your entire body. Your skin’s tone and the condition its in is oftentimes a sign of a poor diet.
BEAUTOLOGY: This is all about make-up tips & techniques. Questions that you might have after a cosmetic procedure such as a Fraxel or IPL: When can you start wearing make-up again? Which make up lines use beneficial ingredients?
No matter what you have been told about the sun, the truth is out and it’s more alarming than ever! 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. For all you older sun worshippers who didn’t know or were never told about the cumulative dangers of UVB/UVA rays, that sun tan beds were bad for you, or that the sun exposure while driving your car is equivalent to laying out on the beach, its time to join the SunEscapers and protect yourself and your skin’s future. Take charge of your Skin’s Destiny!
And so my journey begins…. I hope you enjoy the information I share with you and I look forward to your comments and feed back always.
The answer is no, know one is ever born with freckles. Those cute little freckles are the first sign of real sun damage they are not kisses of love from an Angle! A freckle or brown spot is directly related to exposing your skin to the harmful UV rays. Once you understand how the sun truly interacts with your skin, you and you alone can decide when and how you will take precaution. The good news is your lifestyle is responsible for 80% of your aging and only 20% is due to your unique DNA.
THE RAYS- The sun is a source of enormous amounts of invisible ultraviolet radiation. The two that concern us are UVA AND UVB rays. If the UVC rays ever reached the earth we would burn up! On the bad side the sun’s UV rays that we do get exposed to cause our skin to burn, age, and get skin cancer. On the good side the sun supplies us with warmth, light, and life itself. Without the sun we would parish, however, UV rays have a direct effect on your skin cells and over time cumulative sun exposure is what causes, loss of elastin, collagen, brown spots, massive freckling, wrinkles, and skin cancer.
UVA - was touted as the safe rays in the 1980’s but since then UVA rays have been renamed the “Aging Rays” and for a very good reason. These are the rays that go much deeper in to the dermis layer of your skin. They destroy your collagen, elastin; create liver spots, photo sun damage, and some forms of skin cancer too. Since most of us women seemed to be obsessed with how old we look, the truth is THE SUN IS NOT YOUR NEW BFF! Seriously, 20% of lifetime sun damage occurs by age 23, with 10% accumulating per decade thereafter. More importantly, UVA rays are present 365 days a year rain or shine, from sun up to sundown, winter, spring, summer, or fall you need protection.
UVB - Stand for the burning and tanning rays; these are the rays that give you that very painful red visible sunburn or that bronze tanned look we so desire. UVB rays are at their strongest from 10:00 am-2:00pm during the summer. Remember that 80% of the sun’s UVB rays penetrate the clouds. UVB radiation is the cause of skin cancer, non-melanoma types such as basal and squamous cell carcinomas. These types of cancers are generally found in the epidermis of your skin because the shorter UVB rays strike here first. When in doubt cover up.
Are you getting tanned even when you are not trying?
The sun, in all its glory, is able to reach us with UV rays from millions of miles away, but it’s not only the direct rays you need to be fearful of. The reflection off surfaces such as glass, water, sand and snow heightens the damage of UVA and UVB rays to your skin!
What this means is that you are not safe from the sun even when you are not directly exposed to its rays.
Think of it this way, if you are commuting back and forth to work everyday and the sun is directly shinning its warm and delightful rays on you, you will get tan through the glass, and end up with serious sun damage along the way. Ok don’t believe me? Compare your left arm to your right arm and notice the difference between the two. Most cancers occur on the more vulnerable – left side of the upper body, neck, face, nose, arms, and hands. This is directly related to driving your car each and every day! Notice your décolletage area (chest). If you drive into the sun on a daily commute, you should be seeing some form of photo sun damage. You might not notice when you are in your 20’s or if lucky even your 30’s, but soon thereafter those ugly brown spots, and aged looking skin will start appearing.
The sun also reflects off surfaces like the snow and sand. Even if you religiously sit under your umbrella you are not protected from the sun’s reflection off the sand, which can give you a nasty sunburn if you are not careful. If you ski, the reflection from the snow ramps up your UV exposure into the unacceptable range. Remember there is no such thing as safe sun!
Take a week and just start to notice how much sun exposure you really get on a daily basis, from just your everyday activities like: jogging, walking the dog, commuting to work, or gardening. If you’re not careful these could add up to an hour or more a day, and that’s a lot of sun over the course of a year and lifetime. The best solution is to cover up in sun protective clothing, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and a good sun hat so you can “Escape The Sun In Style”!
Group Questions
1. How much sun do you receive weekly without really trying?
2. Where are you and what are you doing when getting daily exposure that can add up to significant damage to your skin? Are you at work, a soccer game, out with your family, driving in your car?
SUNOLOGY TIP: if you get just 1 hour of sun exposure daily for one year, it would add up to you sitting in the sun for 15 1/2 days straight! Would you ever sit in the sun for even 24 hours straight? Think about your daily exposure to the sun, it really matters.
Even Wearing A Hat The Suns Ray's Reflect Upward Off Surface Like The Sand!
Sun damage is on the tip of everyone’s tongue and for good reason. The rate of skin cancer is reaching epidemic rates (3% growth over each year) and especially dangerous for those living here in Hawaii since we are blessed to have such beautiful sunny weather due to our close proximity to the equator. Just the other day I came across a staggering article about the dangers of sun in The Star Advertiser “Save Your Skin” The new statistics overwhelmed me and I needed to share it with you ASAP.
Believe it or not 1.3 Million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year and someone in our countries die every hour from Melanoma. In Hawaii alone there are 310 new cases of melanoma and 5,000 nonmelanoma cancer each year appearing on peoples faces and hands, yet tanning continues to rule the beaches as tourists and locals alike bake themselves in the sun day after day. In fact, it takes 20 years after sun exposure for skin cancer to develop and a whopping 5 years after receiving a sun burn for your skin to get back to normal! The American Skin Cancer.org has stopped giving the Oscar for The Safest Tan- it doesn’t exist and we are starting to notice a shift in Hollywood’s red carpet tanning crazy. Movie stars such as Lady Gaga, Nicole Kidman, Marcia Cross, Cindy Crawford, Marie Osmond are revered for their beautiful creamy complexions and do not even subject themselves to those spray tans. O’ natural is sexier and healthier!
Most of us want to stay young forever and fight the signs of aging but with these staggering statistic maybe we should be worried about dying from to much sun exposure before we get the chance to get old and wrinkled?….well if you can embrace the idea that “Pale is pretty” you get the slam dunk…beautiful skin and time to enjoy it!
Group Discussion Ideas:
1. Create your own Pale is Pretty Girls group and let me know some of the things you do to “Escape The Sun In Style”
2. Do you know someone affected with Skin Cancer? Share your stories and inspire others to protect themselves!
Since sunscreen hit the main stream in the 50’s beauty company’s have jumped on board adding new SPF enhanced moisturizers and sunscreens to their product lines. Many even entered a SFP war toting remarkable SPF ratings (from 60-125+), protection from UVB and beneficial anti aging ingredients.
The truth is that until recently we didn’t release that UVA rays were also just as dangerous if not more so than the UVB rays burning our skin. In fact, UVA was previously thought to be safe, and good for health benefits such as production of vitamin D, fatigue, clearing acne, spider veins, rickets, and tuberculosis. Boy where we wrong! and as a result many of the sun protection creams and lotions actually increased the number of skin cancer and deaths in our country as they give people a false sense of security when out in the sun. More over, those UVA “safe rays” turned out to be the “aging rays” that where not only responsible for 80% of the visible signs of aging but also develop into serious skin cancer after a lifetime of exposure. UVA rays are present 365 days a year rain or shine so be smart and use plenty of broad spectrum sunscreen each day, wear sun protection clothing and your ETSIS Hat to Escape The Sun In Style each and every day!
Sunscreen Timeline
o 1938 – Glacier Cream is first Sunscreen created by a chemist named Will Baltzer named and had a SPF 2+.
o 1944 – Red Vet Pet was created by airman Benjamin Green and was the first widely used sunscreen. This red, sticky, petroleum based product was used by soldiers in the Pacific and their families during WWII
o 1950’s – Coppertone bought Benjamin’s paten and started nation wide advertising campaign icon the “Coppertone Girl” and “Bain De Solie” flew off the shelves around the country.
o 1962 – Franz Greiter invents Sun Protection Factor (SPF) which became the world wide standard for measuring the effectiveness of sunscreen.
o 1986 – First SPF 15 was introduce
o 1990’s – First SPF 30 hits the market. Companies continued to support protection from UVB. Brands add water resistant products and the addition of even higher SPF ratings.
o 2000’s – UVA / UVB broad spectrum sunscreens enter the market place.
o 2010 – ETSIS Hats & Apparel launches a revolutionary product offering UPF 15-50+ that protects your face and neck from the sun.
Group Question: A few of my favorite natural sunscreens are MelanSol Pure Sun Screen, Kabana, Coola, KINesys, and Invisible Zinc. If you prefer synthetic I recommend La Roche-Posay, Coppertone Sport, or Rodan and Fields. There are also some excellent mineral powders with SPF Eminence offering one of the nicer organic versions…..What are your favorite sun screens or sun protection products and why?
You laugh now but those unprotected sun tanning sessions are just as dangerous as unprotected sex! Of course we all know you can get pregnant from not using any protection but did you know that you can die from unprotected sun tanning! It’s extremely important to apply the correct dosage of sunscreen to both your body and face daily and depending on your level of outdoor exposure. Ok so how much SPF is enough?
SPF or “Sun Protection Factor” refers to how long it takes for the skin to redden (or burn) after sun exposure. Although each person has a unique time that they can be in the sun unprotected before burning a good rule of thumb is to use the ten-minute rule multiplied by your products SPF rating. SPF 15+ x (10 min)=150 min allowing one to stay in the sun before burning. SPF 30 x 10 min=300 min. You catch my drift. Here lies the problem sun protection is a very individual thing and everyone burns at a different exposure time. Even if you reapply as directed you might apply too late and still get burned. Five burns in a lifetime, increases your chance of skin cancer and the visible signs of ageing like wrinkles, brown spots and sagging.
The controversy today lies with the term Broad Spectrum and SPF terminology. Both are confusing and giving people a false sense of security when it comes to protection from the sun. The best thing to do is use Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide as well as other key ingredients to insure you are getting the best coverage as possible, PLUS wear sun protective clothing, Sunglasses, and your favorite ETSIS Hat and Escape The Sun In Style! www.etsishats.com/sunology/sunscreen
Group Question: California looks like it will pass the first law in the nation prohibiting teens from using tanning beds. How do you feel this will impact our community? to read more on this topic click here
I started using broad-spectrum sun protection as soon as they hit the market around 2006-2007. When Neutrogena announced their new one with Hellioplex I thought I had found the answer, finally a safe tan. I could enjoy the sun, get a tan, not get cancer, and definitely not age anymore. WRONG, WRONG, WRONG, I forgot to read the fine print and boy those terms and conditions are extensive.
The skin treatments I did in 2006 basically were a waste of time and money because the product I was using really didn’t protect my new skin from experiencing more sun damage. Now a few years later I’m lucky enough to spend those big bucks a second time to reverse all the damage once again. The problem is that those “broad spectrum sunscreens” gave me such a false sense of security, as if driving in my car and the sun shinning in on me was safe. Those cute little freckles are not so cute when you get older, they kind of morph into one big brown spot.
If all these sunscreens, sun blocks, and broad-spectrum products were really doing their job, protecting your skin from the sun, Skin Cancer rates would be on the decline not reaching epidemic levels (3% growth each year). Moreover, many of us would not be running to the DR to get injections to fill those lovely deep lines and wrinkles later in life.
The truth is; to date there is no effective way to measure how long a broad-spectrum sunscreen or sun block can actually be effective and protect you from the sun’s UVA. However, they can be very effective in preventing a sunburn (UVB). Another thing to note is that after you have been out in the sun for an hour that the structure of the product starts to deteriorate or if you perspire, or get wet, therefore lessening the protection level. Even if you do reapply like so many directions tell you to, most likely you have already had more than enough sun exposure that day and should be covering up.
When selecting a sunscreen make sure it has key ingredients for – UVA – Mexoryl, Zinc Oxide, Avobenzone (Aka Parsol 1789) and for UVB – Cinnamoate, ensulizole, octinoxate, padimate A, padimate O and be sure to cover up with long sleeve clothing, sun glasses and a hat each and every day or suffer the consequences later!
Group Question: Are these new broad-spectrum sunscreens going to protect us in the long run? Even though we have these new methods of rating we won’t really know the long term effects good or bad for several years. What are your thoughts?
Through out history women were obsessed with their skin being as white as possible. They went to great lengths to keep it flawless. Since women did wear a lot of clothing during these times their bodies were protected from the sun. It was a part of their fashion sense that had them protect their faces with large hats and beautiful parasols. Tan skin was never popular or even considered to be glamorous.
It was the original fashionnista herself, Coco Chanel who was given credit for making tan skin part of the glamour fashion scene! In 1923 she stepped off her friends’ famous yacht in Cannes and the paparazzi snapped their shutter cameras quickly for the latest from Coco herself. Her tan soon set a fashion trend. American and European women quickly embraced the new look. Who would of thought that it would have taken 80 years for a fashion trend to fade? TANS FADE PEOPLE DIE. CoCo was known for making comfortable clothing at the time and this new trend led into the Jazz Era with looser clothing and women exposing more skin this leading to more tanning.
The 50’s brought us the bikini and even more skin was exposed and Moon Doggie (Jeff) and Gidget hit the beach everyday for surfing. Self-tanning products started to appear on the market and everyone thought that being in the sun was healthy and good for you. Only 50 years later we have discovered it is seriously harmful to body and life threatening for 1 in 5 Americans (that’s 20% of our population! And the numbers are growing fast).
In the 70’s 80’s and 90’s our lives got busy, some of us started getting married, having kids, full time careers, and that wonderful rest & relaxation was becoming harder to pencil in. Let alone finding time to lay by the pool or go to the beach. We still didn’t think that sun tanning was a bad thing for us. The need for another tanning solution was born and tanning beds quickly popped up in every major city. The microwave saved women time in the kitchen; could the suntan bed do the same for them when it came to tanning. Yes, and by the 1992 tanning salons command a huge industry of over 28 million dollars each year. The problem is this industry isn’t regulated and turned out to be even more dangerous than the real sun when it comes to creating photo light damage and skin cancer.
Honestly, did you really think lying in a tiny capsule with strong UVA/UVB bulbs inches from your face and body is healthy for you? Suntan beds can be ten times more dangerous because most people do not use any sunscreen or sun block protection. Companies say they are coming up with safer types of light bulbs, but the truth is that frequent tanning bed users proved three times more likely to develop melanoma than non-users and subjects that used tanning beds for any amount of time showed a 74% higher rate of melanoma than non-users according the University of Michigan study published in the Journal Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention. Many people are even linking tanning bed use to drug abuse due to the life threatening dangers associated with it – no matter what your friends tell you – tans are not healthy.
The new fashion trend is to Escaping The Sun In Style. Create your look with one of ETSIS fabulous hats, driving gloves, shades, and long sleeves you will be protecting yourself and leaving everyone else wondering.. Who’s That Girl?
Group Question: What was the worse sun burn you ever had?
After visiting my Dermatologist Kevin Mott the other day he spoke to me about the visible sun damage on my arms. I had some brown spots but nothing major, so I thought… then they put me under a special light called a “UV camera” which shows the UV damage under the dermis of your skin that is not yet visible to the naked eye… and boy was I in shock! The Dr. explained to me that sun damage comes out years later and in different degrees on different parts of the body. I was confused, I use my sunscreen, I don’t sun tan at all, and haven’t for the past several years. So, how did I get all this damage? Part of it can be attributed to cumulative sun exposure over the past decades as your body (graciously, ha!) stores sun damage and it appears years later as we age. The other reason was due to my lifestyle; all the hours I was commuting to and from work added up to about an hour a day in the sun (yes the sun’s harmful rays can penetrate glass). Look at my left arm very, very scary – horror film scary…Compare my left arm to my right arm. What you are seeing first hand is COMMUTER SUN DAMAGE or as we are going to call it “Commuter Aging”. Most sun damage and cancer is found on the left side of your upper body from driving each and every day.
Well the naked truth hit me where it hurts – the top layer of my dermis. The part everyone sees! Trust me ladies it is not pretty years later when you get a bit older, and sun damage really starts to show its true colors dark brown sun spots. At the same time and in combination with the brown spots white dots referred to as confetti in there appearance also caused by over sun exposure show up. This is double trouble and no real solution for the white dots. Your skin has lost its melanosite cells; they have died off and leave this speckle of white dots-not very attractive.
Right Arm
Left Arm
The Treatment:
The Dr and I discussed some treatment options and I decided to go with IPL, Intense Pulse Light treatment. What is an IPL you may ask? Well, it’s a laser treatment using light energy which is absorbed by your skin. The real deep sun damage (to your epidermis) rises to the very top layers (your dermis) and then breaks apart (yay!). There is no peeling or any kind of physical down time. This treatment is usually done in a series depending on your individual results and pre-treatment skin condition.
Cost: $400
The Results:
It took a total of ten days for my skin to show major improvement from the sun damage that arose to the surface of my left arm. I only had one treatment done and thought the results were amazing. I still have a few light brown spots that you can see, so if I decide I can have another treatment in a month to get the left over spots to break down. You need to be careful because sometimes you get a negative effect called Hyperpigmantation, which produces white spots on your skin (almost as bad as the brown spots!). Overall I rate this treatment a 10.
The moral to my story is even if you are not someone who consciously suntans the effects of invisible and incidental exposure truly add up 20, 30, years later. My conclusion was to examine my lifestyle and analyze when I was getting the most of this so called stealth damage, which all leads to greater photo aging and cancer in the long run. When driving or walking the dog not only do I use my broad-spectrum sunscreen, but I cover up with a driving shawl, or long sleeve shirt, ETSIS Hat, gloves, and of course a great pair of shades. I doubt if I will ever get rid of all my sun damage…. but I’m doing everything in my power not to accumulate any more!
Chest – Pre & Post IPL Treatment
Group Question: Have any of you had an IPL treatment? if so was your experience good or bad?
Knowledge is power and some of the best tools to empower you and your skin are understanding your Sunology Terminology. Lets find out what all the abbreviations you see on your sunscreen, sun block, clothing, accessories and are talked about avidly in the media are all about!
UV Index – predicts the levels of ultraviolet radiation on a daily basis in each territory or zip code you live in:
o UV range 2 – is Low and no protection is needed. o UV range 3-5 – is Moderate seek shade, use sunscreen, protective clothing, ETSIS Hat, reapply sunscreen every two hours. o UV range 6-7 – is High requires protection as above. Reapply your broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours. Maybe throw a long sleeve shirt on. o UV range 8-10 – Very High and extra protection is required and try to avoid mid day sun. o UV range 11 – and above is extremely high and we suggest if you have any sensitive issues such as Melasma or you don’t want any more brown spots use a sunscreen that has at least 6-8 % zinc.
Check out our web and UV widget to find out what the UV index is for a daily rating wherever you live.
SPF “Sun Protection Factor” -The SPF is the amount of UV radiation required to cause a sunburn on the skin with sunscreen on. It’s relative to the amount required for the skin to burn with out any protection at all. For example – If your skin would burn in 10 minutes without sunscreen or sun block and then you used a sunscreen with SPF15 it would allow you to stay in the sun 15 x 10 or 150 minutes (2.5 hours) without being burned.
Please don’t forget that this pertains to UVB the “burning rays” we really do not know for sure how much protection we get from our broad-spectrum sunscreens when it comes to the UVA rays. (The aging rays). Scientist and skin care companies are diligently working on better ways to combat the harmful UVA rays. New products are showing up each year. The problem lies in the fact that it could take another 20 years to see if these products hold true to their claims. Remember that the UVA rays are the ones that penetrate deep into your skin and cause the most long term damage (to the dermis). Check your sunscreens strength
PPD – Persistent Pigment Darkening is a method to measure UVA protection similar to the SPF method for measuring UVB light protection. Originally developed in Japan it is the preferred method used by manufacturers such as L’Oreal. Basically PPD measures the darkening of the skin (or tanning) rather than the reddening of the skin from burning like SPF measures. For example if you have a product with a PPD rating of 10 you can endure 10 times more UVA than if you had no protection at all.
UPF Ultra Violet Protection – Is the international rating for the UV resistance in fabrics (textiles). Basically this measures how much UV is filtering through your clothes and still impacting your skin. Hold your t-shirt up to the light and see how much light filters though – if you see a lot of light that means the item has very low UPF of under 10. If you can barely see light through the article of clothing you have a good UPF rating of 50+. Today clothing manufactures for the outdoor enthusiast are using state of the art nano-technology to add UV protection to their products. Surf companies such as O’Neill have exceptional products for water sports and provide excellent sun protection. There is also a great product called Sun Guard, which is like a detergent that you can launder your clothes in and add your own protection. A word of caution some people are allergic to the chemicals.
Now that you know you’re ABC’s of Sunology Terminology you can better protect yourself and your family from the sun. Remember each and every day is a SUN day!
Group Question: Do you ever check out what your UV Index is where you live? You might think about covering up a little more depending on the daily forecast and season.
You may laugh now but tanning can be just as addictive & dangerous as drinking and smoking. Take tanning beds for instance, since they hit the market in the 1990’s they have grown to a huge multi million dollar industry and both women & men alike are lining up to get their fix each and every week. Sun tanning addicts, like most cigarette smokers, start young and as a result melanoma the deadliest form of skin cancer has increased 2.2 % in Americans age 25-29.
Tanning is in addictive for more reasons than our need to blend into societies mold that tans are sexy, healthy and beautiful. Studies have been conducted and the results show that UV rays trigger the release of endorphins a morphine like substance into the brain which results in blocking the “pain” caused to your largest organ in the body and replace it with a stimulate or “pleasure”. What does this mean? That its very possible you are addicted to sun tanning and if you crave the sun each day and feel empty without it.
Be proactive and stop abusing the sun and fake bake tanning options like tanning beds! Start with baby steps, cut your tanning sessions in half and cover your arms and décolletage area in the car while you drive to and from work. All your sun exposure each day adds up to more wrinkles, brown spots and saggy cheeks later in life or death. Be safe now or you will be sorry later!
Group Question: How many hours a week do you spend Tanning?
I’m sure everyone can remember their auntie or mother telling them “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” but just exactly where did that saying come from and.. (drum roll) is that really truth or just a scam to get you to eat the so called forbidden fruit?
The saying was coined in 1904 by a fruit specialist named J.T. Stinson in a lecture during the Missouri St. Louis Exposition and boy was he right! The truth is that apples are extremely good for you because they are a rich source of antioxidants (flavonoids to be exact). They also contain Vitamin C which helps your immune system and your overall health. Apples can be found all over the world and their healing properties are well acknowledged. In fact, Alexander the Great is credited with finding the first dwarfed apple trees in Asia Minor in 300 BC. The apple first made its way to North America around 1625 and have played an important role in our multimillion dollar fruit industry ever since.
Here is some food for thought… maybe Eve wasn’t really “tempting” Adam toward sin but more likely helping him stay healthy! Apples are delicious, crispy and a perfect anytime snack between meals that will help your mind and body stay focused.
May Reduce Risk or Help With:Colon Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Breast Cancer, Lung Cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinsonism, Heart Disease, Weight Loss, and Controlling Cholesterol
Contains: Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Folate, Calcium, Iron, Potassium, and Fiber
Fun Fact:Did you know apple juice can kill up to 80% of bacteria on your teeth?
Not be mistaken with dope beats, or a human beat box, these little wonders are equally as worldly and dynamic. Beets are a super vegetable and so powerful that they can stain cloth, skin and even your urine! Lets find out exactly what puts the bling bling in these little buggers…
Beets have been cultivated since the second millennium BC in the Mediterranean and then migrated to Babylonia 700 BC and China by 850 BC. Today they are popular all over the world and varies include chard, spinach beet, sugar beet, and the most popular beetroot in both red and golden varies. Ancient societies and folk medicine alike praised beets for there healing properties including reducing fevers, binding wounds and even as an aphrodisiac!
Beets are rich in Betacyanin which gives them there vibrant color and also is a powerful cancer-fighting agent. They are also packed with B Vitamin folate which is a must for pregnant women. Beets are not only sweet and delicious but help keep you energized and ready to battle the day. For lunch try substituting your regular macaroni salad for a golden beet salad and stay in beat with your body’s needs!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Cancer, Heart Disease, Constipation, Reduce Stress, and Prevention of Birth Defects
Contains:Vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B6 and calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, sodium, iron, manganese, potassium, and fiber
Fun Fact: Beeturina is passing of red or pink urine after eating beets. It affects 10-14% of the population. So if it happens to you…don’t beet yourself up over it! Ha Ha Ha
My fondest chocolate memory was when my parents returned from Europe and they brought me a huge box of Champaign Truffle Chocolates from Switzerland. From the moment it hit my tongue I felt transformed into the wonderful world of Willy Wonka, surrounded by decadent deliciousness…. It is delights just like these that make one abandon calorie counting and just go for it! It wasn’t until recently I learned that Chocolate is actually an important anti-oxidant and…. hold on to your hats everyone… healthy! Lets see what makes chocolate so coco-tactic.
Chocolate or Cacao has its origins in Mexico, Central and South America. One of the earliest recordings date back to Honduras from 1100 to 1400 BC where archaeologist found remnants of a cacao beverage in an ancient vessel. It wasn’t until 16th century after the conquest of the Aztecs that Chocolate made its début in Europe. There are various types of chocolate, including pure – unsweetened, white, dark, and milk chocolate. All are produced from three main cacoa beans called Criollo (rarest and most expensive from Central America), Forastero (most common and strongest in classic chocolate taste from Amazon basin), and Trinitario (which is a hybrid of the two and originated in Trinidad). Unfortunately not all varieties of chocolate are given the gold sticker of approval for being “healthy” so you want to look for pure cocoa or dark chocolate, rather than the milk or white varieties which contain added sugar, milk and other fats. Dark chocolate contains high amounts of flavonal antioxidants that are derived from the ground and fermented cocoa seeds and protect the body from aging caused by free radicals.
In fact, Dark Chocolate contains 8 times more antioxidants than strawberries! Flavonoids help reduce blood pressure and lower IDL or “bad” cholesterol by 10%. Dark Chocolate also contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant, simulates endorphin production in your brain (which is received as “pleasure”), AND fights against coronary disease, making it a friend to your heart, mind and tummy all at the same time. Ok people, don’t go overboard and start sprinkling chocolate bits onto every meal but do give yourself a free-pass now and then to enjoy an after dinner cacao delight.
May Reduce Risk or Help With:Reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, increase circulatory system functions, anticancer, brain stimulator, cough preventer, reduce depression and stress, increase pleasure, and overall heart health.
Contains:vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, E, pantothenic acid, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, potassium and manganese. Antioxidant flavonoids including catechins, epicatechins, and procyandins
Fun Fact:Americans spend $13 billion a year on chocolate.
“Edanmeee” no no it’s “Eda-mame” my Japanese acquaintance guided me on the pronunciation as we dove into a bowl of Hawaiian style garlic and ginger coated Edamame. Since I’m one of the many ladies who cut-out-carbs whenever I can I find it increasingly hard to find a low-carb appetizer which satisfied my need for salt. Lucky here in Hawaii Edamame is a local favorite and can be enjoyed at almost any bar all day long. Edamame has health benefits besides being delicious…. let’s find out what makes these soybeans so blazing hot!
Edamame come from the Japanese word for “twig bean” (eda = “twig” + mame = “bean”) and refers to young green soybeans cropped with its twig before they mature and dry. Edamame where first referenced before the 7th century B.C. in China’s earliest classic the Shijing (Book of Odes) . Edamame is cooked by boiling the pods in lightly salted water for 15-20 minutes, then allowed to cool and served in the pods as a snack (don’t eat the pods!) or removed from pods and used in more complex hors d’oeuvres. Edamame has become very popular with vegetarians because it offers a low-calorie protein source and contains the 9 amino acids that the body needs (but does not produce on its own) for overall health.
In fact, only ½ a cup of Edamame contain 11 grams of protein, 9 grams of fiber, and 120 calories! Edamame contains isoflavonoids and are often praised as being a heart-friendly food and a good source of Folate and Vitamin K. Edamame can also help lower cholesterol and has a plethora of calcium, iron and contains the elusive omega-3 fatty acid which help fight cancer and helps to promote overall well being. Edamame can be found fresh at your farmers market or in the frozen food section all year long. So next time you’re thinking of serving french-fries or potato skins for your appetizer party why not give Edamame a try and give your heart a high-5!
May Reduce Risk or Help With:Heart Disease, Cancer, Cholestorol, Bone Health, Brain Health, and Reducing Stress
Contains:Vitamin C, E, K, Omega-3, Omega-6, Thiamin, Folate, Nicain, Riboflavin, Betaine, Choline, Protein, Iron, Calicum, Meganesim, Zinc, and Potassium.
Fun Fact: Henry Ford. The great inventor of the Model T was also the first person to support the canning of green vegetable soybeans (edamame) at the Henry Ford Institute[1].
India is where I started a deep and lifelong love affair with lentils. The country was so mystical and you could smell spices and magic in the air everywhere you traveled. One of the best dishes we ate was called Dal Saag and is a mixture of lentils and vegetables – it was lentil-lusciousness. To this day every time we go to an Indian restaurant I think about that dish and just lick my lips in delight… lets dive in and unlock the mysteries of what makes lentils so nutritious and delicious!
Lentils are a type of pulse and a proud member of the Legumes family that also include – beans, clovers, peas, soy, peanuts and alfalfa (plus many more). Legumes are classified as a fruit that grows on Fabaceae plants inside pods of various shapes, colors and sizes. Lentils have a long and vibrant history and most likely one of the first crops domesticated in the Near East in 10,000 B.C. Lentils are also an important part of the culture and diet in many countries, including Ethiopia, Pakistan, the Middle East and India, which has a substantial Hindu & Muslim vegetarian population. Lentils are extremely important for these cultures because they have high levels of protein (approximately 26% of their calories), which is necessary for those who cannot derive protein from eating meat. Lentils come in many types and varieties, including yellow, red, green, white, brown, and black. Lentils can be purchased in many forms including whole, split, sold, or without the skins. In order to cook Lentils properly it is recommended (but not necessary) to soak them in water over night and then to cook them for 10-30 minutes. In addition to being high in protein, Lentils are also packed full of essential amino acids isolenusine and lysine.
These essential amino acids are extremely important for your body because humans cannot synthesize them and they must be ingested. Lentils have about 7% of protein from lysine. Lentils also contain folate, vitamin B, minerals and dietary fiber, which makes them one of the healthiest foods to eat because they help lower cholesterol and manage blood-sugar disorders. And that’s not all! Lentils are also an excellent source of iron, which is important for preventing iron deficiency for pregnant women. The best part of the equation is that a whole cup of cooked lentils only has 230 calories and virtually no fat! Now that you have the facts – substitute your typical rice and bread once a week for this legume and lengthen your life with lentils!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Iron Deficiency, Healthy Heart, Maintain blood sugar, Lower Cholesterol, Promote digestive health.
Fun Fact: In Italy eating lentils on New Year’s Eve traditionally symbolizes the wish to earn more money next year, most likely because of their round coin-like shape.
It has been a tradition for my husband and I to meet my parents at their club every Sunday for breakfast. My mother and I always order the egg white omelets with cheese, avocado and a dash of Jalapeño peppers to give it that extra kick. It is always a mystery to see if the chef in the kitchen will actually figure out what a Jalapeño Pepper is because often times we end up with regular bell peppers or some other variation of Jalapeños which just doesn’t cut it… lets find out what makes Jalapeños so smoking hot!
The Jalapeño pepper is actually a fruit and medium sized chili pepper. The Jalapeño’s home state is Mexico and was named after Xalapa (or Jalapa) the capital of the state of Veracruz where it was traditionally cultivated. The Jalapeño is most commonly picked and sold when it is green but can also be found in a red riper form. The flavor of a Jalapeño is medium hot and based on the Scoville Scale (used to measure the spicy heat of chili pepper) it ranks at only 2,500-8,000 heat units (the hottest pepper capsaicin receives Scoville Heat units of 15,000,000-16,000,000 and the lowest starts at 0 for a bell pepper). The best thing about the heat is that it not only gets your taste buds popping but it is also packed full of health benefits because it contains Capsaicin which is the chemical in peppers that gives them their hot edge. Capsaicin is also the name of the thermogenic supplement in many weight loss pills…ummmm sounds interesting… and guess what it’s the same chemical!
In fact, Capsaicin helps you loose weight by heating up your body by consuming energy (from fat). That’s not all! Jalapeños are also excellent stimulants for your heart and help lower cholesterol. Capsaicin has also been praised for fighting prostate, colon & stomach cancers as well as reducing leukemic cells. Finally, capsaicin also reduces inflammation and pain from arthritis, migraine & sinus headaches because it inhibits a key neuropeptide substance P that triggers brain pain . Its no wonder Jalapeños pack so much punch! Next time you go to a Thai restaurant make it HOT and orders some extra water to pepper up your heath.
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Prostate Cancer, Colon Cancer, Stomach Cancer, Migraines, Sinus Headaches, Inflammation, Congestion, Sinusitis, Weight loss, Lower Cholesterol, Heart Stimulant.
Contain: Capsaicin, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Calcium
Fun Fact: Did you know that even touching a Jalapeño could cause your skin to burn from the heat?
Growing up in the Rocky Mountains every summer my friends and me would look forward to exploring the vast and beautiful trails. One of my favorite Hikes was the trek over the Continental divide, which we would start in Aspen, spend the night in Crested Butte and then hike back over the next day. The views are nothing short of miraculous, with the snow melting and wild flowers blooming. Hiking is a wonderful way to connect with friends, family and stay fit because it combines fun with exercise!
Hiking is a Global sport and refers to an outdoor activity that consists of walking in natural environments, or on hiking trails. The sport of hiking is also recognized in many hiking organizations worldwide. Many hikes can be accomplished in a day or in some instances many days in which case the term Backpacking is used. It’s important to be prepared when hiking with special equipment for the appropriate environmental condition including hiking boots, rain gear, water, food and a map if not on a clearly marked trail. It’s also important to travel in groups or if you are hiking alone, to let someone know before you go in the event that you are injured. Hiking often negatively impacts the environment by leaving human waste, encroaching on endangers species or causing serious wildfires. It is because of these and many other environmental dangers that most hikers adopt a strict policy of “Leave no Trace” which focuses on not disturbing the environment. Most avid Hikers adhere to special rules and hiking edict to reduce the environmental impact and dangers associated with being in the wild.
Hiking is incredibly good for your health because you are conducting cardiovascular exercise which boosts your immune system, fights heart disease, tones muscles, contributes to weight loss and maintains overall health and wellness. Hiking is also excellent for your self-esteem because reaching the top of a mountain or secluded waterfall comes with multiple rewards. Not only do you get the chance to experience natural beauty but also self-accomplishment that you set a goal and “made it.” Setting and reaching goals is important for creating a balanced life and can translate into reaching goals in your work, love life, and weight lose! Go ahead and hike out some aggression and see how rewarding it is to reach for the hills.
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Weight loss, Muscle Toning, Heart Disease, Obesity, Depression, Self-Esteem, 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease.
Fun Fact:President Barack Obama and nearly all of America’s governors have proclaimed June as Great Outdoors Month
The first time I tried flax seeds was recently when my mother claimed it was the best diet of the century. She prescribed two-tablespoon of ground flax seeds, in a glass of water, daily – She declared “you just never get hungry” with a nod of satisfaction. At first I thought, the woman has gone mad – drink flax seeds! Needless to say the ritual has now become a part of my every day. I love those little guys! Let’s find out why…
Flax Seeds are native to India and the eastern Mediterranean regions but have also been cultivated in Egypt and ancient Ethiopia. They come in two varieties yellow or brown and are most known for their large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Flax fiber is amongst the oldest crops in the world and has been linked with the production of linen in ancient Egypt . Flax seeds are also used to produce flax seed oil which is used in both cooking and in some cases as a drying oil in painting. This flax seeds fiber is so versatile it has also been used for cigarettes, tea bags and even banknotes!
In fact, flax seeds pack so much punch they are widely used as a dietary fiber or to lower cholesterol or to aid with weight loss (i.e. low in carbohydrates & high in fiber.) Flax seeds are beneficial for your mind and body by delivering you essential omega-3 fatty acids which are praised for controlling blood pressure and seriously improving your outlook on life by reducing anxiety & depression. Do your body some good by feeding your flax seed need!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Lower Cholesterol (LDL), Diabetes, Weight Loss, Depression, Anxiety, Prostate Tumors & Cancer, Breast Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease, Brain Health, Blood Pressure, Prevent Constipation
Contains: Omega-3, Vitamin B, Magnesium, Managese, and Fiber
Whenever I think about Ginger, my friend Matt pops into my mind. Us crazy kids would dare each other to eat huge chunks of raw ginger to get energized before going out on the town. It sounds strange but even just chewing on a piece for a few minutes will get your blood pumping and eyes bulging…. ummmm why does Ginger make your body juice-up?
The Ginger plant has its origins in Southeast Asia. The Chinese herbalists have been using Ginger for its medicinal purposes as well as for its culinary benefits for more than 2,500 years. The plant is now also cultivated in tropical locations like the Caribbean and East Africa. The ginger root is part of the Zingiber Officinale family which also include turmeric, cardamomo, and galangal. Ginger is most noted for its pungent taste and smell. Almost all Southeast Asian cultures have a special name and variety of Ginger that they hold dearest. Ginger made its debut in many culinary kitchens often used as a spice, pickled in vinegar or sherry as a snack, boiled to make tea, added to honey, used for flavoring, or made into beer, candy or cakes. Many cultures used Ginger in traditional medicine as an ingredient to calm indigestion or increase the immune system.
In Fact, Ginger has been given the green light for helping with Arthritis and may help with circulation and respiratory conditions like colds and allergies. Above all else, Ginger has received the biggest kudos for aiding stomach ailments like diarrhea, cramps, nausea, morning sickness, dyspepsia, and even ulcers by promoting the flow of bile. Ginger also has anti-aging functions and the gingerol found in ginger is an effective substance in eliminating free radicals (even more effective than vitamin E!). After the gingerold is absorbed by the body it produces an anti-aging enzyme called superoxide dismutase which inhibits the process of lipid peroxidation which cause aging spots . Ginger is not only spicy and adds a unique flavor to your meals but supports a healthy cardiovascular system, which is good news for your taste buds and your body. Tonight put the saltshaker away and spice things up with a dash of ginger and go ga ga for ginger root!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Nausea, Allergies, Migraine, Coughing, colds, Circulation, Arthritis, Immune System, Digestive problems, Anti-Aging, Anti Caner, Prosate, Arthritis, Anti-Inflammatory, and Blood Thinning.
Contains: Ginger contains volatile oil, mainly composed of zingerone, shogaols, gingerols, citral and glutamic acid as well as many other elements needed by the human body, such as protein, vitamins, carbohydrates, amino acids, phosphorus, and iron.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Ginger is a beautiful plant and often used in Landscaping because of its vibrant flower?
Nothing… and I mean nothing is as delicious and thirst quenching as a tall, ice-cold glass of water…even watching the condensation on the glass gives me pleasure and shivers of delight. The other day as I was pouring myself a glass and offered one to my friend…his response “no thanks I hated the taste of water.” I was flabbergasted. Isn’t it like genetically imprinted that we love or at least like the building block of life? Lets find out more…
Water covers 70.9% of the earth’s surface and is vital for all forms of life. Water can change structures and can be found on our planet in a solid state, ice, liquid, gaseous, water vapor or steam. Water on earth continually moves through a cycle of evaporation, transpiration, precipitation and runoff that eventually ends up in the sea. It is these cycles that contribute to storms and weather patterns all over the earth. Clean water is the most important need for human life and directly affects the world’s economy. Water is a key ingredient in many products, chemical substances and is also used as a cooling agent for transporting goods and monitoring industrial machines. In many developing nations the demand for clean water exceeds supply by nearly 50% and it has been said that the abundance and quality of the water supply is directly linked to the GDP of that nation. Approximately 884 million people around the world (1 in 8 people) lack access to safe water supplies, and water and sanitation crisis’s claim more lives through disease than wars claim with guns . The human body is anywhere from 55% to 78% water depending on body size . To function properly your body requires between one and seven liters of water per day to avoid life-threatening dehydration. The amount of water needed each day can vary from person to person but most often depends on the level of activity, temperature, humidity, and other factors.
In fact, did you know that almost 70% of the freshest water is used for agriculture? Water is crucial for survival and overall health as it is necessary for the second most important human need – food. Water is also important for reducing your chance of blood clots, is vital for proper kidney function, and it also maintains body temperature, which is responsible for keeping your skin moist, soft and beautiful. So next time you think about grabbing a soda instead of a glass of ice water, think about the millions of people struggling around the world who do not have access to clean water source and do your body a favor and wise up on your water intake!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Blood clots, kidney function, acidity, anemia, headache, gas, bloating and nervousness.
Contains: 1 oxygen and 2 hydrogen atoms
Fun Fact: The Ancient Greek philosopher Empedocles held that water is one of the four classic elements along with fire, earth and air, and was regarded as the ylem or basic substance of the universe.
The first time I heard about Mangosteen was on “The View” were a guest health specialist showcased super foods from different countries. The Mangosteen caught my attention because I love mangos and thought maybe this was a new type. Boy was I wrong! A Mangosteen is a completely different fruit than a traditional Mango in looks, texture, taste and nutritional benefits. Lets learn about the nuts and bolts of this new mega food and why it’s important to add on to your nutritional hit list to fight aging and cancer!
The Mangosteen originates from southeast Asia and has been a prized fruit for centuries in both its native lands as well as in the west. The Mangosteen is a type of tropical evergreen that produces a deep purplish fruit with a sweet and citrusy taste. It has been used throughout history for its medicinal purposes as well as its exotic creamy taste. Today the Mangosteen is grown in many countries including Hawaii, Asia and Puerto Rico. Part of its newfound popularity is that until recently it was extremely hard to import because the fruit is known to harbor pests. Thankfully those restrictions have been loosened and now the Mangosteen can be found in its whole fruit glory as well as in juice, dried or frozen. It wasn’t until recently that science unlocked the mysteries of the Mangosteen, finding that it contains an active component called Xanthones. Xanthones are a recently discovered class of polyphenolic compounds that are biologically active and structurally similar to bioflavanoids. These compounds occur only rarely in nature, with the majority being found in only two families of plants. Two hundred naturally occurring xanthones have so far been identified and approximately forty of them have been discovered in the mangosteen fruit. The Xanthones have several benefits including anti-inflammatory properties, anti-allergic, and anti convulsing abilities.
Mangosteens are also packed full of powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for your body because they prevent or reduce oxidation in the body. Oxidation produces free radicals which cause cell damage and are a direct link to premature aging as well as many diseases. Antioxidants are extremely important because they remove the free radicals and thus stop the negative chain reaction in your body, which can reduce your chances of heart disease, cancer and strokes. The Mangosteen also contains flavones and flavonoids that help boost other antioxidants in the body including vitamin C & vitamin E which assists the immune system in protecting the body and operating normally. Although the fruit is most praised for its fruit taste it is the dark purple rind which contains almost all the nutritional value. Rather than attempting to eat the peel, which has tannins and is very bitter, you can look for mangosteen juice that contains the entire fruit. Don’t be scared…. this legendary fruit is worth its weight in gold – Give it a try and get your body moving with mangosteens!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Stimulates immune system, Anti-Aging, Cancer, Stokes, Heart Disease, Lymphatic Disease, Inflammation, Anti-fungal, Anti-bacterial, Anti-histamine effects, Anti-viral, and
Fun Fact: A possible apocryphal story states that Queen Victoria once offered a cash reward to anyone who could deliver a mangosteen to her. She wasn’t able to try it until 1891, when the fruit was brought from Trinidad. The correlation of Queen Victoria with the mangosteen is probably related to the fact that numerous people have referred to it as the “Queen of Fruit ”.
Nuts Nuts Nuts…. I’m just Nuts about Nuts! Big, small, shell-on, shell-off, I just can’t get enough. They are crunchy, they are woody, salty, sweet and sweet and the perfect anytime snack. For years I put my nut fetish on the back burner because my mother became deathly allergic to hazelnuts and almonds out of the blue. It turns out that nuts are extremely good for you but they are also one of the most popular and dangerous food allergies. Lets crack open the shell and find out what makes nuts so mighty.
You may be asking yourself “what is a nut?” Well a nut is a seed, but not all seeds are nuts. Basically a nut is a dried fruit with one or two seeds. In a fruit you can remove the seeds, however, in a nut the fruit and the seeds combine to create the hard exterior wall or shell (the fruit ovary). Not all nuts are edible and not all “nuts” are actually nuts at all. For example a peanut is a legume, almonds & pistachios are drupes and many other nuts are types of seeds (pine nuts are coniferous seeds and macadamia nuts are kernels of seeds). Nuts are an important part of human and wildlife nutrition and were fundamental to the diet of our ancestors the “hunter & gatherers” as they are extremely high in protein & fiber and can be eaten raw, and stored / transported easily.
In fact, science has proved that those who consume nuts regularly are less likely to suffer from coronary heart disease because nuts contain Omega-3 fatty acids which lower LDL cholesterol (almonds and walnuts especially). Nuts are also very low in sugar, which is good for those regulating their sugar intake, such as people with type 2 diabetes . Nuts are also rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin E, Riboflavin and selenium. Although nuts are good for you they also are high in fat so don’t go overboard or your waistline will suffer. The appropriate serving size is 1-2 oz’s of unsalted nuts a day, which amounts to 160-200 calories. So its ok… let yourself go nutty now and then and give your heart-health a high 5!
May Reduce Risk or Help With:Heart Diseases, Monitor Blood Sugar, Lower Cholesterol
Contain: Vitamins E and B2 (riboflavin, an antioxidant), and are rich in protein, folate, fiber, and essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and selenium.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Macadamia nuts are toxic for your dog?
Diane Feen has been in the fashion business since birth.
Her father owned a clothing store in Detroit, Michigan and she has been following in his fashion footsteps ever since.
She was a fashion editor and retail consultant in New York City, picking trends and new designers that would influence fashion. Her accuracy at picking winners was legendary because her eye for design excellence is equally grounded in reality. Let’s face it, fashion is a wonderful exercise in fun and frivolity, but it has to look good (and be appropriate to for places other than the runway).
Diane has designed accessories and currently writes fashion and feature articles for newspapers and magazines. She currently lives in South Florida and writes a humor column (As Seen by Feen) in a newspaper. She is also the fashion editor for Hat Life, a fashion and lifestyle publication and newsletter (hatlife.com).
“I love fashion and find it adds a colorful dimension to everyday life. You can be the life of the party, but if you’re dressed up beautifully you remain the center of attention. And, as a woman, we all know if we look great, we feel great.”
Purpose of Product: This is a Hair Care product that I use twice a week when I wash and blow-dry my hair.
Location on Body: Hair and scalp
Date Started: 12/10/2010 Date Ended: Still using
Price Points: The 8.5 oz bottle shampoo is $21.00; conditioner 8.5 oz is $22.00, the 3.1 oz for $41.00, and the travel size is $18.00. They offer an entire hair care line of products.
Benefits/Positive: Strengthens hair and increases its elasticity, offers UV protection and is rich in vitamins and nutrients. Works well in humid climates such as Hawaii (where I live). I loved how my hair felt after I blow-dried my hair… and up to 3 days later it still had bounce and body! Not oily or greasy feeling at all. (I have exceptionally dry hair).
Special Ingredients: Moroccan Oil is rich in natural vitamin-E, phenols, and phenolic acid, carotenes, squalene, and also for medicinal purposes. The oil is from trees that are located in the southwest region of Morocco. The trees are also grown in orchards in Israel.
Negative/Reaction: Nothing negative about the product! It’s all sooooo good!
Total Experience: A true thumbs up! I am very anxious to try other products by this company. You can find their complete hair care product line at: http://www.moroccanoil.com/en/our-html
Name of Product: Micro-Dermabrasion Paste by Rodan & Fields
Purpose of Product: Exfoliation for your skin is the best way to get your skin to look and behave younger. When your young your cells turnover every 30 days, keeping your complexion youthful. As we reach 40’s and 50’s cell turnover slows way down. It can take up to 50 days or more for the natural shedding process to take place if at all. Dead skin cell build-up is the direct cause of dry, dull, looking skin with enlarged pores. Micro-Derma Pastes Helps to speed this process up and keeps your skin looking younger.
Location on Body: May be used on face and body
Date Started: 1/10/2010 still use on a regular basis 2 times a week
Price Point: 4.2 fl oz cost $77.00
Benefits/Positive- this oil free formula combines sugar and salt that gently exfoliates the skin. It helps with the removal of dead skin cells, cleans pores and leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth but not dried out at all.
Special Ingredients: It features vitamins C and E and polishes the skin with salt and sugar granules in an oil free base.
Negative/Reaction: I didn’t experience any negative reactions, but this product is not recommended for individuals with sensitive skin.
Total Experience: From the first sample I received I was hooked. My skin is already on the dry side and some exfoliation products I have tried in the past have left my skin drier or irritated. This is one product I shared with all my friends.
Overview: DHC is a Japanese skin care line. They have several fabulous products that address many skin care needs. Easy to order and they direct ship.
Purpose of Product: Weekly or bi-weekly treatment
Location on Body: Face
Date Started: Mid summer 2010
Price Points: $14.00, 4 masks per box +shipping
Benefits/Positive: Q10 fights damage caused by the sun when used on a regular basis. Really leaves your skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. This intensive sheet mask, enhanced with the fine line-fighting potency of coenzyme Q10, seals in beneficial botanicals for a revitalized-looking complexion
Negative/Reaction: I didn’t experience any negative reactions.
Special Ingredients: Coenzyme Q10, Rosewater, Aloe, and willow calm.
Total Experience: What makes this mask so unique is that it comes in individual wrapped packages and the sheets are in the shape of your face. There are cut-outs for your eyes, nose, and mouth area. The ingredients have been infused into the cloth mask. You simply unfold the cloth gently, apply to your face and gently pat product into your skin. I always try to lie down and relax with this mask on for 20 minutes or so before removing it. The other thing I like about this type of mask is you don’t wash it off therefore you continue to reap the benefits from all the infused ingredients.
Location on Body: Face, neck, décolleté, arms and hands
Date Started: Tried product for 6 weeks starting June 2010
Price Points: 3.4 oz-100g $35.00-$55.00 depending on where you purchase
Benefits/Positive: Broad-spectrum protection UVA/UVB, Fragrance free, PABA-free, Light, non-greasy, suitable for sensitive skin types, and allergy tested. Created by scientist and has 24 hr long-lasting hydration.
Negative/Reaction: I didn’t experience any negative reactions. This product is not recommended for children. This is not an organic sunscreen
Unique Ingredients: Parsol 1789(avobenzone-2%) is very effective at the midpoint of the UVA spectrum, but provides less protection against short UVA wavelengths. Mexoryl SX (ecamsule) provides peak efficacy against these short UVA rays. Mexoryl is a trademark product of L’Oreal S.A.
Total Experience: I get a lot of products sent to me so I really read about them before trying them. I had wanted to try a sunscreen that touted broad-spectrum protection from UVA (the aging rays) and UVB (the burning rays) rays, but at the same time offer my skin other benefits such as hydrating qualities. I thought the product went on smoothly and did not clog my pores. I would recommend this product for daily sun protection and daily moisturizing.
Purpose of Product: Sun Precaution-Offered in Five Shades
Location on Body: Face
Date Started: December 2010
Price Points: Starting price is around $55.00
Benefits/Positive: Water-resistant-good for exercise and swimming,
hypoallergenic, and anti-inflammatory, excellent for post-treatment. Reflects the sun and keeps skin cool reducing Rosacea flare-ups and oil production. Most sunscreens need to be reapplied every 1-2 hrs, with Eminence Mineral re-application is every 4-5 hours.
Special Ingredients: Absolutely 100% organic. Eminences produces and grows all their own ingredients. Loaded vitamins and bioflavonoids, Micronized Zinc Oxide, fruit extracts, and vitamins A and E
Negative/Reaction: I didn’t experience any negative reactions.
Total Experience: I love using new types of SPF 30 mineral powders (similar to a loose powder and offered in 5 shades, darker colors may be used as a bronzer too). If you are not one that wants to apply a ton of oily lotion to your face and/or body you should definitely try one of Eminences SPF mineral powders for sun precaution and anti-aging protection. I highly recommend this entire skin care line to those individuals that follow an organic lifestyle
Purpose of Product: Broad Spectrum Sun Protection Lotion
Location on Body: I use on my hand, arms, and on my face.
Date Started: 2010
Price Points: $41.00, 1.7 fluid oz.
Benefits/Positive: Non-Comedogenic-which means it does not clog your pores or cause whiteheads or blackheads.
Special Ingredients: Avobenzone- is also known as (Parsol-1789) which is the newest talked about ingredient for broad spectrum sun protection. This is a synthetic sunscreen ingredient. Vitamin-E – is for quenching free radicals, and Dimethicone is an OTC ingredient used as a skin protectant agent that helps repair the skin barrier and leaves a smooth silky feel on the skin.
Negative/Reaction: None
Total Experience: No matter if you wear this on your face, arms or hands you can never go wrong with a skincare product by R&F. I apply a generous dime-sized amount evenly over entire face every morning. Reapply every 2-3 hours when exposed to sun and after towel drying, swimming or sweating. Avoid the eye area.
Purpose of Product: Cleansing and Exfoliating the Face Tool
Location on Body: Face, Neck, and Décolletage
Date Started: 2010
Price Point: $149.00
Benefits/Positive: Really helps remove daily build-up of makeup, dirt, and environmental pollutants.
Special Ingredients: Has different brush attachments for different areas of body. Two sizes Original and the new Mia Clarisonic great for travel
Negative/Reaction: I didn’t experience any negative reactions. This isn’t negative but replace your brush every 4-6 months and wash after every use so as not to spread bacteria.
Total Experience: I have been using the original Clarisonic for the past year and my skin has never looked better. I use my Clarisonic daily as part of my evening face washing routine. It really helps to loosen up makeup and to remove dead skin cells. This really prepares your skin for your products. I find it one of the better at home tools.
Purpose of Product: Soothe, hydrate, and revitalize eye area
Location on Body: Under-eye gel mask leave on for 20-30 minutes minimum, longer is better.
Date Started: 2009
Price Points: $8.00 per box, 6 Packets (6-treatments). Sometimes they do a special for $6.00 (this is when I really stock up).
Benefits/Positive: These gel like eye masks lock nutrients in and adhere well, simple to remove. No fuss, no mess. I have paid up too $22.00 for similar products, and without the great DHC results. Available online for purchase.
Special Ingredients: Glycerin, anti-oxidant rich olive leaf, brightening mulberry, alpha-arbutin to help combat dark circles and soy to promote younger looking eyes Of course you can go online and always look up DHC product ingredients and get the full list.
Negative/Reaction: I didn’t experience any negative reactions.
Total Experience: I have been using these unique eye patches for a couple of years now. I have been known to wear them for at least several hours before a big night out on the town. Another trick that I do is I keep my eye packets refrigerated. The cold helps reduce any puffiness and is really soothing. These are the best to take on the airplane. Who cares how they look on the plane? I want to look great when I get off the plane. So maybe an hour or so prior to landing I whip mine out and put them on and then spray my face with some mineral water.
Purpose of Product: Helps to clear dead skin cells and enrich skin with protective moisture when used together.
Location on Body: All over body- should use all products together
Date Started: 2011 (personally only use body cream because I like it)
Price Points: AHA Body Sliker 8.4 fl. Oz $34.50 and Hydrating body cream is 8.4 fl. Oz is $21.00 and Pacific Rim Salt Scrub $ 29.00 19.4oz
Benefits/Positive: If you respond well to products with AHA in them then you will love these two products together.
Special Ingredients: AHA are fruit acids
Negative/Reaction: Unless you truly cover up and protect your skin completely from the sun, AHA products can make you extra sun sensitive and it is suggested that you stay out of the sun for one week after use. A lot of people are sensitive to products with AHA so test on inside of arm first, proceed with caution, and really define what results you are going after.
Total Experience: Whether you live in sunny Hawaii or your are experiencing an Arctic winter blast, you owe it to yourself and to your skin to try this combination body treatment if you are in need of removing rough dry skin. I personally do not use the AHA because I am already very sensitive to the sun. Although I can highly recommend the body cream, I use it in combination with the Pacific Rim Slat scrub. Made from Macadamia ternifolia, which is different from the edible nut, is great for conditioning and for not having a greasy after feel to it (or making me extra sun sensitive).
Purpose of Product: For steaming the face and to use with essential oils
Location on Body: Generally the face but can add humidity to your room.
Date Started: Used for at least 15 years
Price Points: $65.00-$125.00 depending on model and where purchased
Benefits/Positive: Allows you to do professional type facial at home. Or just use to diffuse essential oils into the air for a spa like treatment.
Special Ingredients: None. You provide your own essential oils that can be purchased at health food stores or bath and body shops.
Negative/Reaction: Every once in awhile your steam could sputter water. This is pretty hot water, so be careful, and keep your eyes closed.
Total Experience: I have used an at home facial steamer for years to take care of my skin in between my routine facials. There are two schools of thought about using steam on the face. Estheticians have used steam to open pores, loosen dead skin cells, and prep the skin for proper extractions. Other experts, Dermatologist (not all) feel that steaming has absolutely no bearing on opening pores and that with the right products pores can be cleaned out. I for one would never give up my at home steamer or ask my Esthetician to stop steaming my face when getting a facial. I use it at least once a week at home and have great looking skin at 56. This is one skin care tool I would never give up.
Aloha Friends, my name is Marsha and I’m the original SunEscaper! In my blog I will be sharing beauty tips each week to help make you feel beautiful inside and out. Beauty tips will include topics of: anti-aging, skincare, haircare, and of course tips on Escaping The Sun In Style™ which is my favorite activity! I hope you enjoy them and welcome you to share your tips with me!
“As we age our skin slows down its natural exfoliation process resulting in a dramatic buildup of dead skin on the surface of your face. By using a face wash with an exfoliating properties you can aid your skin’s rejuvenation and let the new skin shine”
“The best way to stop the visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines and sagging is by protecting your skin from the sun, which is responsible for 80% of your aging!”
“Did you know that your hair is comprised of proteins? It is important to use shampoo that suits your hair type to get the desired look and feel. Ask your stylist to recommend something to achieve the best results.”
“Wearing sun protection clothing can help ensure your skin retains its youthful radiance! Bring a driving shirt with you in the car to and cover up on the commute from work to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays”
The first time I laid eyes on the Dragon Fruit I was sure it was a strange alien egg that was going to crack open during the night and hypnotize me. Thankfully I was wrong and when I peeled off the outer scales I was amazed to see the most beautiful fruit imaginable! Not only is the dragon fruit mystical in its look but also in its nutritional value… lets explore and find out why everyone is breathing fire for this new super food.
The Dragon Fruit plant is otherwise known as Pitaya fruit cactus, or Hylocereus (sweet pitahaya) fruit cactus. This cactus only flowers at night and produces beautiful blooms referred to as the “Moonflower” or “Queen of the Night” because of its delicate aroma, as well as its colorful fruit which varies from white to pale pink, to red and purple. The dragon fruit is also known as the “Strawberry Pear” because if its unique seeds and texture. The fruit is native to Mexico, Central America, South America and also cultivated in many Asian countries, Israel, Australia and Hawaii. The Dragon Fruit comes in a few varieties including a Stenocerus Fruit (sour pitayas), and Pitahya Dulce (sweet pitahaya). The sweet varieties can be found with red-skinned and white flesh (most commonly recognized as Dragon Fruit) but also can come with red skin and red flesh or yellow skin and white flesh. Dragon fruit has a similar texture to a kiwi and can be enjoyed raw, or used in beverages for flavoring or converted into juice or wine. Dragon fruit is high in water and extremely low in calories (35-50 calories per ½ cup), making it a perfect snack for watching your waistline and sugar intake.
In fact, Dragon Fruit is packed full of Vitamin C, dietary fiber and minerals include phosphorus and calcium. Most importantly, Dragon Fruit has received the super-food seal of approval by containing significant amounts of phyoalbumin antioxidants, which prevent the formation of free radicals and fight cancer. Pitaya is also said to lower cholesterol and blood pressure as well as help control levels of glucose blood sugar in type 1 & 2 diabetes . Dragon fruit can be eaten both fresh or dried so next time you go to the grocery store dare yourself to try this “Queen of the Dessert” and give your body a royal fruit boost!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Fight Cancer, Weight Control, Blood Pressure, Respiratory Tract Aliments, Lower Cholesterol, Control Sugar for Diabetes.
Contains: Antioxidants, Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Calcium, Phyosphorus, Iron, Carotene, Niacin, and more!
Fun Fact: Dragon fruit is also used in many skin care products because it is said to reduce age spots and stimulates collagen which increases the firmness of your skin.
If you’ve been to any black tie dinner parties or galas lately you might have noticed that stylish women are sporting tiny toppers on their heads. Not exactly a hat per say, but what is known as a fascinator.
A fascinator, for those who have not headed for this trend yet, is a headband or headpiece adorned with flowers, velvet bows or feathers. Women in the UK adore them and wouldn’t think of attending a horse show (they do that with fervor over there) without one on their head.
And now that Kate Middleton is set to marry Prince William the Fascinator has become a lot more fascinating to woman on both sides of the sea. As a matter of fact I recently attended a Black Tie Gala at Mar-a-Lago (the house that Donald Trump built) and many of the women had on headpieces and fascinators. One woman even wore a tiny 1940’s hat that she wore at her wedding (there was no man in sight so perhaps the hat outlived the marriage).
To make this trend even more weightier, Prince William’s bride-to-be stepped out last week wearing a velvet fascinator with pheasant feathers. The blogs and fashion sites are thrilled to see this wild topper on her head, and the creators (and copy cats) are even more thrilled because sales of this type of hat have soared 95 percent.
Kate has been a great boon for hat business and will continue to be an inspiration for us all when it comes to fashion bravado (remember she met the future King while dancing in her underwear). She is young, exciting and has a great sense of style – and she loves hats.
Rumor has it that British milliner Philip Treacy is making her a spectacular bridal headpiece for the big day. Hat watchers, take note, this could be the biggest hat coming out since Aretha Franklin wore her outrageous bow hat at the Obama inauguration (people are still talking about it and litigating over it).
But, if you prefer a larger sized hat, don’t despair, they’re all over the runway this season, which means they’ll be easier to find this spring and summer.
David Dunkley’s new couture collection for KC’s Hats is a millinery tribute to the upcoming Royal Wedding.
Us gals here at ETSIS love when we come across the new & innovative. The people & places where fashion materializes as a response to the cultural environment especially peeks our interest. As in the case of ETSIS, it was part pioneering spirit & part fashion desperation that lead our founder, Devra, to create our innovative sun hat. A charming discovery we came across while conducting research for ETSIS was the Yama Girls of Japan. A term used to identify women who have started to hike and mountain trek in large numbers – enough so that active lifestyle tour companies and fashion brands have taken notice. In the vein of the street fashions of the Harajuku district in Tokyo (popularized in the U.S. by Gwen Stefani’s fashion line, Harajuku Lovers), the Yama Girls fashion trend is one of many to emerge on the streets of Japan, or on the mountains, as in the case of the Yamas. We applaud our fellow fearless fashion pioneers. In tribute to them, I have been inspired to write a series of blogs devoted to Japanese Street Fashion – the Who and most fascinatingly, the Why & How these subcultures of fashion have emerged. If fashion is litmus to a society’s underpinnings, Japanese street fashion is a peek into the workings of a place where traditional, modern & global influences oftentimes collide into an intriguing mix of fantasy & reality, using fashion as its vehicle of expression.
Far away from the dizzying pace of Tokyo, the Yama Girls are hiking, camping and communing with nature in cute yet functional mountain skirts, colorful leggings and stylish boots. Perhaps the most practical of fashion trends in Japan, the Yama Girls are really single working women with disposable incomes that are being spent on fashionable outdoor clothing, partaking in their choice of leisurely activities: hiking and mountain trekking. Following the increased interest in yoga and running in recent years, the emergence of the Yama Girls continues the sports trend among Japanese women. Now the Yama Girls have taken it to new heights and destinations while being catalyst to a new fashion trend.
These little earthquakes of spending-power have prompted designers to produce new lines with the Yama Girls spirit in mind. The resulting aftershock turned out fun, functional outdoor fashion. I love the new collection of goodies by mountain fashion pioneer, Yuri Yosumi. Yosumi captures the spirit of the Yama Girls by preserving the practical attributes of outdoor gear through fabrication, fit & utilitarian details while playfully blending colors and patterns – a khaki hiking skirt turns up an unexpected multi-colored patterned lining. These fun accents are a definite nod to the Kawaii (cute) aesthetic so prevalent in the make-up of Japan’s consumer culture. Hello Kitty, anyone?
It’s a wonder why the delay by designers to create stylish yet practical outdoor wear. There’s nothing like being surrounded by awe-inspiring views, clean air and the perfection of nature. And fashion is so much about expressing on the outside what you’re feeling on the inside. I am thrilled over the always successful triumvirate of Form + Function + Fashion that is represented by our lovely Yama Girls. Picture these uber-cute ladies sporting ETSIS hats for sun protection, while trekking the splendor of Mount Fuji. Now that’s super cool & super kawaii!
If you want to meet headwear royalty, then there is only one night of the year that is possible. Usually held in mid-March, the event is a night of endless hat talk with fashionable hatters who enjoy life and love of their trade.
You don’t have to be a hat maker or designer to attend, as a matter of fact hat lovers of all stars and stripes (women and men) fly to New York City to revel in the greatness of an industry that is a few hundred years old. Many of the people in attendance are third and fourth generation hatters (their great grandparents or grandparents made hats). Known as the Headwear Association Dinner, the event is held in Central Park at The Central Park Boathouse (a wonderful restaurant overlooking a lake).
Truth be told the THA is an association that dates back 103 years. I suppose the original founders are not around to witness its reincarnation, but it is miraculous the way this organization has flourished despite the economic times. The Headwear Association was originally called the Traveling Hat Salesmen’s Association and was founded by 34 hat salesman in 1908. Their events were held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. If you know your history (or you lived it) women were not given a chance to go into sales in those days, hence the reason the THA or The THSA was for men only in the olden days.
But all that has changed. The dinners are now made up of women of all occupations and preoccupations. Even the Milliners Guild (a group of hatters around New York) now attends and delights guests with their one-of-a-kind headwear. They sponsor hat parades and other hat events that herald hat wearing and hat history in and around New York (www.millinersguild.org).
When guests stepped into the Boathouse it felt like they had entered a time warp. The room was filled with a glamorous crowd – and everyone in attendance (there were 160 people) was wearing a hat. Some of the hats were miraculous. Hat Designers wore their own creations (some not seen in stores or on the runways) and others donned hats from their companies. Gentlemen and dandies were decked out in fedoras, Derbys, Homburgs and cowboy hats; the ladies wore everything from wide-brimmed sun hats to chic modern fascinators that took their flavor from UK crowd favorite Kate Middleton.
The Headwear Association is the oldest association in the hat industry and the oldest of its kind. But you would never know it because members and guests keep getting younger and hipper. Some people used to call this event a meeting of the “Old Boy’s Network,” but we have finally proved that it is for everyone. If you love hats (like Archie Burkel who started the Hat Ladies of Charleston) then you can attend (www.theheadwearassociation.org).
Awards were given out to hat makers and other hat industry folks – Courtney Bush of San Diego Hat Company received the David Leiberman Award, David Broner of Broner Hat & Glove won the Ben Rosenthal Award and Shawn Ferry, President of Byrnie Utz Hats in Seattle was presented with the Retailer of the Award.
The most exciting thing to happen that evening was the introduction of a new scholarship for upcoming accessory students at Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. S.H. Baik, of Young An Hat Company, created the scholarship and partnered with The Headwear Association and FIT.
The scholarship will be awarded to a full-time student with academic merit and financial need majoring in Accessories Design with preference given to a student with interest in millinery design.
The greatest thing about the event, other than the schmoozing and great camaraderie of those in attendance, was the hats. There were hats of all colors and styles. And those in the know – know how to wear a great hat!
Picture of those at THA are below: Images courtesy of Darren Santos
Cameradie runs deep by the river in NYC – Don Rongione of Bollman Hat Company and Douglas Highsmith of Dorfman Pacific. These two great men are very important in the hat scheme of things. Both are diehard hatters with love and compassion for hat lovers and hat wearers
Archie Burkel, founder of The Hat Ladies of Charleston; Beth and Jill Hammer of Hammer INK
The milliners Guild Ladies of NY in their finest Hatting hour
Theresa Gardner, Andrew Bleecher and Courtney Bush – Founders of San Diego Hat Co.
Ed Donegan of Hatco (right) presenting Shawn Ferry of Bernie Utz Hats the Retailer of the Year Award
Gary Rosenthal of Stetson, Shawn Ferry and John Rosenthal The Rosenthal family has been in the Hat Business for generations. They have an amazing hat legacy – they used to have the license for Stetson
Xiao Li Tan, from Stetson rocked a cowboy hat (of course)
Bamboo fabric hit the eco scene with much aplomb a few years ago. My first encounter with bamboo was in 2004 while I was living in Oakland. The Bay Area being a place inhabited by a fair number of ecologically progressed individuals, I learned there that bamboo was a green, eco-friendly fiber in large part due to the marketing efforts of retailers and manufacturers. The media outlets followed as an abundance of press about this green super fabric ensured its place as a topic of conversation at cocktail parties and for a few years, bamboo appeared heavily in the collections of eco-designers. And why not? It had so many great attributes – sustainability as a plant and a beautiful, luxurious hand & drape as a fabric. The fabric was also touted as possessing anti-bacterial and moisture wicking abilities. While researching fabrics for our SunEscaper protection panels, bamboo seemed the obvious choice for us. It was the consistent favorite after numerous samples and tests. And the anti-bacterial and wicking abilities were especially relevant to our product. And then this….
Bamboo fabric same as rayon? Say it ain’t so.
In early 2010, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission cracked down on six major manufacturers who were falsely labeling rayon products as “bamboo”, in an effort to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. (here’s the FTC report: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt160.shtm)
Rather disheartening news for our fledgling company but we liked the fabric so much we stuck with it. It was a no brainer. After we made adjustments to our labels and printed materials, it was business as usual. But we felt the need to talk about this issue with our customers and shed some light on the matter.
The Un-spun Truth about Bamboo
I had to let go of my Bamboo Green Dream. I wanted very much to believe it was the Wunderkind of fabrics – bestowing the planet with all its green goodness at just about the time conversations about sustainability in America were gaining momentum. The reality is bamboo fabric is manufactured the very same way Rayon ( or Viscose – its European counterpart) is. The Same. Or Same Same, as we say here in Hawaii. Rayon/Viscose is a manufactured regenerated cellulose fiber, most commonly made from wood that is chemically treated to produce a wood pulp. The pulp is then extracted through spinnerets (think of a big shower head spewing long strands of fibers) then solidified in a sulphuric acid bath. Doesn’t sound so green, does it? The strands are then spun into fibers that will eventually be woven into rayon fabric – not wood fabric. Are you following me here? No one refers to rayon as wood fabric, and in the same vein, we would now be hard pressed to call rayon made from bamboo, bamboo fabric. The chemical and physical restructuring of wood and bamboo to make the textile fibers is so involved that by the time all that processing is finished, the end product is nowhere near its original plant form. The fabric is an entirely different beast. So the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has stepped in and set new standards on labeling. The qualifier “from bamboo” is mandatory now. So here it is: the new terminology is “Rayon from Bamboo” and/or “Viscose from Bamboo”. Since bamboo in its plant form is anti-bacterial and does not require pesticides for growth, as well as it being a very fast growing plant, consumers may lean towards rayon from bamboo as being a slightly more sustainable fabric than rayon from wood. But with all the processing and water usage involved (especially if the system does not re-use solvents nor does it remove waste in a sustainable manner) this may be only a slight advantage.
Anti-bacterial qualities unsubstantiated as of yet.
It has also come to light that one attribute of bamboo – its antibacterial property – is lost in the manufacturing process from pulp to fiber. While the bamboo plant is antibacterial (and great for covering your floors or decks for this very reason), we are not so certain if this attribute withstands the production cycle. While we would love to claim this to be true, we will let our wise readers educate themselves and make their own opinions. Here are some articles for your perusal. As in all debates, there are two camps of opposing sides here with evidence supporting both.
What remains
Rayon from bamboo’s other admirable quality of moisture wicking has not been refuted. We have not come across any literature that says otherwise. And what remains to be true is that this fabric is incredibly soft and feels luxurious next to the skin. We have yet to hear from our customers about allergic reactions from their SunEscape Protection Panels; which as you all know, wrap closely around your face and neck. Even here in Hawaii, where these is no shortage of sun, our panels keep us cool & protected on warm days and warm on those occasional chilly nights in Honolulu. We believe it is a brilliant fabric. And Clark Kent is just as dreamy as Superman anyway.
Picture of – Lara Miller’s Kyro Dresses Made From A Bamboo/Cotton Blend!
If you think that everything has to be trim these days, you’re wrong. Sure the country may be getting a bit on the hefty size (blame it on fast food) and the deficit is blooming out of control, but when it comes to accessories, the bigger the better.
Large necklaces, earrings, belts and chunky pieces of jewelry are being worn for day or evening. The bigger the better seems to be what we all crave. Just because our cars are getting smaller (and more oil efficient) doesn’t mean our arms, bodices and waistlines should keep to that minimalistic form.
The most exciting part of this large accessory evolution is that it includes hats as well. Large sun hats with engineered stripes are hot right now with six inch brims, but you have to hold your head up high to pull this trend off (especially if you’re tiny in stature). Many of the top headwear lines were showing large sun hats but I was big- brimmed skeptic. I thought this hefty hat trend wouldn’t make it out of the showroom, but I luckily I was wrong. Women of all ages are now wearing big brimmed sun hats and looking terrific in them.
So, perhaps we are entering a time of oversized optimism. We want our homes large, our plates big and our friends in large number. We want blockbuster movies and large amounts of people to agree with us (think politics), but when it comes to fashion this largeness should come with texture and color.
This new genre of Jewelry includes beads, bone and stones that really make a fashion statement. Not of a demure nature, these new necklaces come in double, tripe and quadruple width. It’s as if our clothing should pale in comparison to our accessories.
Much of this bold accessory stance seems to be of a tribal nature. Hence the reason for so much natural woods and stones. According to a recent “Elle Magazine” Proenza Schouler’s rope necklace with tripe colorful cord and wide beaded net is the “Season’s Most Brilliant Mash-up.” I agree, the $825 bobble (that can be bought at Barney’s) is terrific, but I have seen other great items as well (for less money).
As a matter of fact, I recently met art teach and jewelry designer Jane Levy at the Delray Affair (it’s an art fair nothing more) and was stunned by the depth and structure of these brilliant pieces that bore her name (pictures below). It’s as if our chests have become the canvas of tomorrow – and let’s face it, it beats a six-figure oil painting to keep us amused.
So, remember Big is Beautiful, and it doesn’t have to include a trip to Jenny Craig. Just to the closest fashion boutique.
BIG IS BEAUTIFUL – DESIGNER MILLI HERSHMAN AND JODI BEAUBIEN
EXPRESSIVE METALS BY JANE LEVY DESIGNS – BOLD IS BEAUTIFUL
TRIBLE ELEGANCE – PIECES OF DISTINCTION
THE FACE OF FASHION BOLDNESS BY JANE LEVY DESIGNS
This fashion bauble was highlighted in Accessories Magazine’s highlight section. Fashion designer Jessica McMahon and jewelry designer Jason McMahon created Lilah Gabriel, a line of statement jewelry.
The textiles are intricately woven through each piece, with metals, freshwater pearls and semi-precious stones adorning them. A husband and wife line that mixes designer talents and genders also mixes soft silks with heavy metals.
Right now all eyes are on England, Buckingham Palace to be exact. The reason is that in just one week the future King of England (and seemingly nice guy) will marry his girlfriend of nine years, Kate Middleton.
Although Kate is a commoner (one with no royal patronage) she has a real spark and a regal sense of fashion. That may be one reason that the world is abuzz with gossip (and supreme fascination) with questions like, “Who is designing Kate’s wedding dress, What will she wear on her head (rumor has it that Kate wants to wear flowers and not a traditional Tiara), Who will be at the wedding and will the newlyweds ride in the State Landau carriage.
We do know, however, that Irish Hatter Philip Treacy is designing hats for many lucky royals (and their friends). According to style.com, Treacy had women lining up for spectacular hats immediately after the invitations went out. Treacy, who seems to be a perfectionist, requires that customers come for three or four fittings.” After all, he said, “The hat has to be right; something like a billion people will see them on the day…Royal weddings are a real hat moment.”
You bet it is. Barbara Walters has been stoking the proverbial fires of this Royal wedding fiasco for weeks now. She wore a burgundy Treacy fedora on “The View” and did a special for ABC on William and Kate’s storybook romance.
One thing for sure, everyone is stoked about this event (that starts at 4 am) and everyone in the Hat business is thrilled (and curious) about the after effects of this Hat-Centric cultural phenomenon. And we are sure no one will be disappointed because Hats are mandatory for all in attendance. Treacy will not say who came to his studio for their pre-wedding hat fittings, but he did say that they will be wearing Chanel Couture, Valentino Couture, and Gaultier Couture. “I’m designing hats for queens, princesses and celebrities; you definitely won’t miss them on the big day.”
It is always hard to miss a hat made by Treacy. As someone who attended his first New York fashion show – in the 90’s – it was clear from the start that Treacy danced to his own headwear beat. His hats were always sculptured and structured to towering proportion – with feathers and flowers and everything else you might expect on a monument. He did some amazing headpieces for Alexander McQueen and Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel shows, as well as Lady Gaga, Sarah Jessica Parker and Grace Jones.
According to style.com Treacy is one loyal royal man. “I design for royalty throughout the world because royals actually wear hats. They are the true hat-wearers of the twenty-first century, the ultimate influencers who keep the millinery business going.”
Treacy Royal muses range from the Duchess of Devonshire to the Queen of England and Camilla Parker Bowles. Treacy was quoted as saying that hats are the ultimate twenty-first century personal expression. “Every hat I make is particular to every customer, to the way they look, their personality, so you really get to know that person well.”
So, it all boils down to the waiting game. Perhaps that makes us all ladies in waiting.
Philip Treacy with model muse
“Hats Off To ELEMENTS” Philip Treacy retrospective was held at the ELEMENTS shopping center in Hong Kong. The event was part of their second anniversary celebration and honored the 60th National Day as well. Photos courtesy of ELEMENTS.
Article by Diane Feen
We all love them in potato chips and in the ocean, but waves (or ruffles) are now firmly entrenched in our clothing options. If you remember the 80’s you will remember that ruffled blouses and tiered skirts were the top of fashion. Then a sense of minimalism cast a grim eye over anything with ruffles and tiers. The fashion elite that ruled decided that frilly girly clothing was too over the top for women with glass ceilings to climb (a good point at the time).
But the school of minimalism has made way for a wavy feminine strut to our stuff in the form of fashion. And, this softer more frilly form has led the way toward a more feminine allure to clothing that just begs for a hat to match. It’s as if Annie Hall has been updated and upgraded to a more perfect form of fashion.
This feminine fashion genre lends itself perfectly to softer fabrics such as chiffon, silk, crepe and jersey. These pliable fabrics are easy to drape and lend a smooth path for anything with ruffles or tiers. Christian Dior recently sent a model down the runway in a short white ruffled skirt and paired it with a classic tweed fur trimmed jacket. The outfit is a dichotomy of style sense, yet it rings in true for fashion newness (and helps sell a new twist to an old theme).
If you remember vintage Ralph Lauren then you may remember his ruffled front blouses that were a big hit in the late 80’s. Most of us tossed them in the used clothing bin and did not look back. But for those of you who didn’t (me) it is time to pull them out of the “never going to use pile” and wear them pronto. Even Ralph must still have a soft spot in his heart (and his design room) for ruffles because they showed up on blouses and skirts in his spring fashion show. And who could have missed the stunning Ralph Lauren ads in Vogue and W Magazine that featured high collared ruffled shirts under blazers and jackets.
It is this feminine fashion pass that gives poetic license to headwear designers (and consumers) to design (and wear) any hat they want. And many are doing just that! Hat designers are making floral headpieces, fascinators and straw hats with flowers to complete this vintage variation on fashion. Hat maker Joy B. Scott, who travels from London to Chicago quite often, always has her pulse on the fashion track. And her latest hat styles are miniature cocktail hats with mesh and veiling. These more feminine retro styles go perfectly with frilly feminine clothing.
Hatter Louise Green (who is based out of LA) also has a softer flowery form to her headwear. That’s not to say that Green hasn’t always added this magic feminine touch to her hats, she has. But this season seems to have brought out the garden variety in her style box as well. And, with the Royal Wedding stirring up the fashion in everyone’s headwear pot, it is essential that today’s headwear have a British tone to it. And, wouldn’t you know it, Green is from the UK. Her designs are in demand, and she continues to have speaking engagements, store showings and factory tours for children and adults alike. Let’s just say that this is the season to be jolly about headwear.
And it’s also the season to take out your ruffled blouses and skirts (if they still fit you) and flaunt your South of the Border fashion stance. Because in the end we all know that fashion is an art form that will uplift and excite us despite what the day may bring. And, adding a hat is like icing to a perfectly prepared cake. Enjoy the confection.
When you think of a cap, you might think of a cab driver or a factory worker. But, unlike its historic preoccupation with the working class, the cap is now something of a fashion icon.
Sure rock stars and celebrities have been wearing caps for a few years, but never before have designers of runway pedigree added caps to their courtier clothing. Never before have so many glamorous caps aligned with such high profile names. I hate to be a name dropper, but would you believe that Louis Vuitton, Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Lauren have all paired caps with siren soothing dresses, suits and trousers.
The thing about caps is that they have become something of a celebrity themselves in the past few years. Women starting wearing caps as a way to announce their reproach against feministic stereotyping while bringing a bit of menswear bravado. And then Brad Pitt took the cap as his side kick (when Angie was not around) and made it as famous as he is.
And like every genre of a species, the cap has many incarnations. There’s the Applejack Cap, the Eight Quarter Cap, The Ivy Cap, The Captains Cap, Driving Cap, The Greek Fisherman’s Cap and the Touring Cap. Up until recently many of these caps were made in wool tweed and herringbones, cotton plaids, madras, fine silk stripes and fluffy faux furs (we can thank Kangol for that one). We saw golfers on the tee – and in country clubs – in their spiffy crisp plaid caps with matching collegiate walking ware.
A few years back Eric Javits took the cap on a wild ride by making it an upscale fashion statement. That oversized cap made it seem fashionable to wear a hat that originated in the shipyards of England and Ireland. As a matter of fact, the cap was decreed a hat of essence in 1571 by an act of Parliament to stimulate domestic wool consumption. The law stated that all men over six-years-old must wear a wool cap on Sunday’s and holidays. The bill was repealed in 1597, but by that time the cap was firmly entrenched in the English psyche.
The caps working class heritage didn’t last long though. It climbed the Ivy tower as a mantle of intellectual prowess in the 20th century and has been worn by college professors and the Ivy Elite ever since. As a matter of fact, the popularity of the cap remains strong for men (and women) of all social strata – from farm workers to Hollywood hipsters. Even Charles, Prince of Wales, is often photographed in a tweed or tartan cap.
Ralph Lauren surprised us all when he showed caps in his spring summer runway show with white ruffled scarf, menswear blazer and denim overalls. It was the first time a Seventh Avenue superstar took the cap and made it worthy of its glorious past. But like all headwear – and fashion icons – the future holds more excitement for something as versatile as the Cap. And, because we love this hat character so much we hope it continues along its illustrious country road onto our city streets.
The feminine, the form and the function have created the fashion canvas for resort 2011. There is a lot more skin showing (get out your Ab rollers and yoga mats) with short skirts, midriff tops and peek-a-boo bras.
Marc Jacobs, who often leads the way in fashion trends, has turned his models into demure Audrey Hepburn look-a-likes with blazers, short A-line skirts and tiny little girl dresses. If there is a time of innocence, it is up and coming (despite the cool reality of the day).
Diane Von Furstenberg has brought out her infamous wrap dress but made it shorter, snappier and striped. She also channeled her inner 60’s with jumpsuits and rompers (if you remember wearing those you are probably too old to wear them again).
But the one thing that distinguishes these cool dresses and suits from last year is the casualness and softness they convey. The jumpsuits have buckle suspenders and the vests often have an asymmetrical flair that feminizes the form.
Chanel has brought out sheer fabrics to give the body an illusion of being front center while under cover. It seems the house of Chanel has made white their color of choice due to its simplicity and innocence. And, why not? White is the color of high vibration and monastic clarity. And if there’s anything we need now it is clarity.
This need to uplift and amuse has been delivered by way of fun frivolous Hats. Gucci has added 70’s style floppy hats, Marc Jacobs used colorful straw chapeaus and Diane von Furstenberg took printed scarves and draped them over caps. This is the second year that designers have embraced the whims and ways of head coverings. And that includes scarf wraps, head-wraps and triangle scarves. It’s just so Jackie O it makes one want to head off to the Island of Corfu or St.Barts (make sure you take your oval sunglasses).
The great thing about seeing all these wonderful head-wraps and chapeaus is that it secures the head as prime real estate to decorate and embellish. It’s been years since hats have been so popular and the timing is just perfect. It lends an air of aristocracy and a sense of whimsy that is a great arm against depression and recession.
That’s the beauty of fashion – it has the ability to transform us and make our days a little brighter.
Stacey Miller is a hat woman of extraordinary measure. She owns 1000 head coverings (and hats) from around the world – and collects, researches and catalogues them in order to understand their decorative symbolism and cultural significance. The name of such a hat collector – of which there are few – is a Mitrologist.
It all started 30 years when Miller brought back hats as souvenirs from her earthly travels. Her collection is from Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands, Europe and North and South America. Because her hats and headpieces are so outstanding they have been exhibited at 15 museums in the US (and showcased in Bergdorf Goodman’s windows in New York City twice).
Miller’s collection of headpieces provides a unique combination of creative, quirky and cultural anthropology. The insights revealed by those who wore them (and the cultures they come from) make us think about the different cultural values around the world.
Peruvian Montera
This hat can be found in Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador and is worn by Quechuan women throughout the Andes Mountains. The Quechuan Indians are descendents of the Incas who built an empire in South America in the 14th and 15th C. The style of this hat dates back many centuries and is believed to be connected to the Inca’s sun-worshipping religion. The style and design of this hat identifies the region one lives in, and in some communities the color of the fringe indicates whether or not the wearer is married.
Thailand: Akha Headdress
The northern part of Thailand is inhabited by a variety of hilltribes who live in the mountains and have maintained distinct identities, languages, customs and crafts for many years. Their elaborate headdress is worn by a woman from the Phami-Akha tribe and is an essential part of her identity. Not only does the hat identify the tribe and clan to which she belongs, it marks her status as a married woman, and the material used to decorate the headdress indicate her wealth.
Cameroon: Bamileke Tribe- Ashetu or Prestige Hat
Only men in the Bamileke tribe that have a high social position are permitted to wear an Ashetu – that’s why they call it a “prestige hat.” Knitted or crocheted in cotton, they are used to demonstrate status and wealth. The ashetus come in many styles depending on the village the man comes from. The burls imitate porcupine quills.
China: Child’s Hat
A century or more ago, when China was a poor country, it was not uncommon for mothers to dress their newborns in a “Tiger” or “Dog-Eared” cap. These hats with fierce faces and symbolic embroidery were intended to scare away evil spirits and help keep babies safe. Superstitious beliefs were typical in places where there was a high rate of child mortality due to poor sanitation and lack of medical care.
United States: Feathered Warbonnet
The headdress of the Plains Indians was of great distinction because each feather represented an achievement performed by the warrior. The feathers were awarded by a tribal council. The expression “a feather in one’s cap/hat” is commonly used to acknowledge a person’s accomplishment and is derived from this custom that existed in different cultures.
I appreciate how diligent and courteous the Asian (mostly East Asian) countries have been in using surgical facemasks to protect others from transmitting their colds & flus. In fact, these masks have become so popular; they are now trending among Japanese teens. But that’s another blog altogether.
We recently came across this mask (shown). Its different from the ubiquitous surgical ones for a couple reasons: it is marketed for sun protection, offers more coverage and there’s a little loop to pull your sunglasses through. This seems a more comfortable option than the elastic.
I like that the mask covers almost the entirety of her face but unless someone has taken a vow of silence, this is where the mask fails in practicality. Good for the quiet ride home from the dermatologists and/or plastic surgeons office, but simply not practical for the woman who needs to go throughout her day and do what she gotta do, while being aware of her sun exposure. It’s the bane of the educated, busy woman to be on top of her game at all times. Whaddya gonna do?
As visual beings, our eyes like to look at objects that are aesthetically pleasing. Something clicks in our brains and we think, “yes, this pleases me, I will focus my attention on this for a bit”. This feeling escapes me while looking at this mask, even the cute pink is negated by the general look of it.
Not to toot our own horn (ok, maybe just a squeak of a toot) but the ETSIS Sun Protection Hat for Women with Signature SunEscape Panels we have developed does the trick of this mask and more. And speaking of aesthetics, it can be worn various ways – we love this dual functional/fashionable aspect… so here we go: TOOT, TOOT!
“A great tip for remembering the difference between UV rays is by the ending letter. UVA are known as the “aging rays” and UVB are known as the “burning” rays”
“Next time you wake up with an unpleasant pimple on your face remember squeezing it spreads the bacteria! Let your skin heal itself is the best remedy and reduces the chance of more pimples and permanent scars.”
You would think the world has gone hatty the way everyone is talking about Hats. First it was the Royal Wedding, then the Costume Exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and lastly the illustrious Kentucky Derby.
Although women (and men) flock to these events for the spectacle of it all, it is the hats that has everyone buzzing about headwear. Some wonder, “should I wear a hat,” others ponder the age old question “Do hats look good on me?”
While the masses decide whether they are hat-worthy, the fashionable among us are donning hats in record number. Just this week I visited Hats Etcetera in Boca Raton, Florida and the shelves were bare. This small, yet charming hat shop is the brainchild of Carina Gatto, who has been selling hats for over 20 years. Her intimate shop seems as if it were taken from a 50’s playbook – lots of personal service and custom made hats of all shapes and sizes. The backroom is a design studio and the front is a delightful bright space filled with one-of-a-kind hats and matching organza shrugs and jackets.
But, Gatto has very few hats on display this week. The reason is simply that everyone is buying hats. “I had people fly in from all over the country to get hats for Kentucky Derby parties as well as for Royal Wedding parties.” What Gatto doesn’t like to talk about is that she made a chapeau for a guest who attended the Royal Wedding of William and Kate.
Gatto’s Royal wedding hat was made in a dusty rose with gray folded ribbon trim and a silver spike ostrich feather. “She came in with her outfit and we looked around and I thought a small hat would be best for her.”
Small might be good for Gatto’s client, but the hats worn at the Royal Wedding were anything but small. If you read the fashion gossip columns you may know that Princess Beatrice’s towering headpiece– made by Philip Treacy – has caused quite a stir on both sides of the ocean. This ornamental monstrosity has been called a fallopian tube, road-kill, an octopus and a giant pretzel caught in a princess’s hair.
But, despite the ridicule for these types of hats, everyone looked marvelous in their outlandish colorful headwear. Even Barbara Walters of The View went to the Treacy salon in the UK to get a hat for the Royal Wedding. But Walters got cold feet (and had a bare head) at the actual wedding site.
All this hat chat – and hat adornment – has made the world stand up and take notice. Fascinators are selling better than ever and new hat shops are cropping up around the country.
And that is good news for hat lovers. It’s also good news for a planet that seems besieged by bad news. Because, we all know that a great hat is the perfect pick-me-up to cure whatever ails you. It’s also a way to feel and look glamorous.
Hats from the Royal Wedding
Sophie Countess of Wessex and Princess Anne
Carole Middleton – Mother of the Bride
These hats are made by Hats Etcetera in Boca Raton (she is wearing the first hat)
There have been some pretty important things going on in our country, but fashion seems to be a hot topic of conversation (if you eliminate the obsession with infidelity).
First it was the Royal Wedding, then the Kentucky Derby and lastly the opening Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty” exhibit. If you’ve never attended this star-studded event, it is like Alice in Wonderland meets Star Trek. When I attended years ago, it was the first (and only) $800 chicken pot pie dinner I had ever attended.
But things have changed. The event is now more about glamour and celebrity than art, and the list of “who’s who” grows longer every year. This year was particularly electric because of McQueen’s unbridled eccentricities. But the sad part is that McQueen committed suicide last year – so his genius lies only in the cloth that bears his name.
And that cloth is anything but the norm. He loved hats (and was discovered by hat lover and fashion avatar Isabella Blow) and made gowns that seemed cut from the same cloth as the wife of King Henry XIII. McQueen loved headpieces and commissioned Philip Treacy to make outrageous toppers for his collection. The exhibit includes black feathered body suits, long embroidered robes and gowns with beading, crystals and one with the face of angels.
According to the New York Times, the show was “a button-pushing marvel: ethereal and gross, graceful and utterly manipulative, and poised on a line where fashion turns into something else.”
One of McQueen’s blouses was threaded with worms, there was a coat with horns, a jacket with a crucifixion scene and a corset with a metal animal spine coming up from behind. Let’s just say that McQueen loved to shock his admirers with creations that would make your hair stand on end (his models often had hair that stood up in mid-air).
And, the party was about as exciting and eccentric as McQueen himself (he would have loved it). Paul McCartney was there with fiancé Nancy Chevell (we hear he played a a bit on the grand piano) so was Mick Jagger, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Kate Winslet, Madonna, Demi Moore, Rihanna, Sarah Jessica Parker and Yoko Ono (just to name a few).
The gowns were magnificent (a testament to McQueen’s genius) with beading, feathers, rhinestones and a grandiosity that made the Parthenon seem irrelevant. If you’re in NYC before July 31st check out this spectacular exhibit at the MET (metmuseum.org).
Stockton, CA–Yes, floppy sun hats are all the rage, but Dorfman Pacific’s new ETSIS line takes sun coverage a few steps further with patent-pending snap-in fabric panels that offer additional facial protection.
ETSIS, an acronym for Escaping The Sun in Style, was created by Hawaii resident Devra Wathen who was driven by her own brush with skin cancer. After a few years of development, she created a hat line featuring a variety of brim widths and fabrics that all offer UPF 50+ protection against direct and reflected sunlight, as well as additional sun protection with UPF 20 to 50+ fabrics.
“As skin cancer rates soar, and people are more aware of the need for protection for those with certain medical conditions or who are on photo-sensitizing drug regimes, the demand for a TRULY FUNCTIONAL and fashionable sun hat has never been greater,” says Dorfman Pacific President and CEO Douglas Highsmith as he announced the recently-inked agreement between his company and ETSIS.
Called SunEscape, the panels provide additional protection to the cheek, mouth, nose and lips.
Hats with fabric panels retail for $60 to $85, and additional panels can be purchased for $30 to $40 in sets of three.
1 in 5 to contract skin cancer
“We recognize today more than ever the damage—sometimes life-threatening damage—that the sun’s rays can do to our skin. In fact the American Cancer Federation estimates that 1 in 5 people will contract skin cancer in the course of their lifetimes,” says Wathen. “In fact, dermatologists have been expressing great interest in the functionality of the line and it is also approved by the Melanoma International Foundation as a great sun safety solution.”
Designs include the best-selling cotton canvas 5″-brimmed DayEscape (ET7) in black, khaki or white with matching panels; the 4 ½” up-or-down brimmed EasyEscape (ET8), also in cotton canvas with matching panels, in black, chocolate, olive or white; the elegant paper braid 5″-brimmed ResortEscape (ET9) in apple/white, black/black, natural/white, royal/white, teal/white or white/white; the all black or black and white cotton canvas SpaEscape (ET5 – another best seller); the crushable ribbon 3″-brimmed BucketEscape (ET3) in black or white; TravelEscape, also in crushable ribbon, with a 5″ brim in black, chocolate, olive or white; the cotton GolfEscape cap (ET3) with a rear ribbon tie, in black, khaki, pink/white and white; the Supplex Land SportEscape (ET2) and Water SportEscape (ET21) caps with 2 ¾” brims and ribbon backstrap, each in black or white; and the HipEscape cap (ET10-Camo) in cotton camo/black with a self Velcro® backstrap. Additional panels are also available in sets of 3 for about $30 to $40 to further accessorize the hats and come in both land and water varieties. Related accessories include 16″ and 19″ ETSIS Hat Bags and an ETSIS Panel Storage Bag.
About Dorfman Pacific:
Founded in 1921, Dorfman Pacific has a 287,000 square foot facility in Stockton, California, showrooms throughout the USA (Atlanta, Dallas, Boston, Honolulu), satellite headquarters in New York, and sells its product worldwide. Categories include a comprehensive collection of men’s and children’s headwear, women’s and teens headwear, handbags and winter accessories. Dorfman Pacific also acquired Panama Jack license in July 2009 and soon afterwards the Tommy Bahama and Woolrich brands. In May 2009, the company acquired Cappelli Straworld—one of the country’s premier resort handbag manufacturers. Just prior to that, it welcomed the Christys’ Crown collection of edgy fashion products and the Blue Chair Bay by Kenny Chesney collection of casual and Western inspired headwear. In August of 2010, Dorfman Pacific announced the acquisition of the Biltmore Headwear Company in Canada. In that same year Carlos by Carlos Santana, Stetson cloth hats and caps and Sinatra became part of the company’s brand roster. Its Milano division features Larry Mahan and Justin Authentic Headgear.
Last Saturday all eyes were on the Epsom Derby Festival in South England. It is there that the Royal family descended upon the racing set to show off their horse (Carlton House) and display their royal patronage.
And it was quite a Royal spectacle to see the newly married couple (just back from their island honeymoon) with relatives and friends at the races. Dashing Princes – Harry and William – both wore Top Hats and tails and Kate (now Duchess of Cambridge) looked smashing in a soft white two-piece dress. The Queen’s horse, a colt named Carlton House, finished the race in third place (you can’t win them all I always say) but Kate, William and his brother Harry came in first for fashion.
In regal British tradition Prince William and Harry looked every bit the part of aristocracy in their black tailcoats, pastel colored vests and top hats, while the Queen of England’s husband, Philip donned a gray top hat and black tailcoat. Although their privilege is beyond reproach, their everyday handsomeness made them seem like normal folks out for a day at the races.
The Duchess of Cambridge (formally Kate) wore a lovely tilted bronze pillbox hat and seemed serenely secure (and why not she is poised to be Queen someday). While the young people seemed to be having a great time, the Queen of England looked rather glum that her horse did not win the race. But in life, as in horse racing, it’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.
And the young royals (even Beatrice and Eugenia) were winners despite their horse’s shortcomings. The top hats looked so great on Prince William, Harry and Philip that we thought it quite fitting to delve into the history of the top hat.
The first silk top hat was worn by George Dunnage, a hatter from Middlesex, in 1793. In 1797 English hat maker John Hetherington wore a top hat in public causing a riot of sorts. Legend has it that this tall stately hat scared women and children so much that he was arrested and fined for “frightening timid people.”But that didn’t deter others from donning top hats.
In 1812 a Frenchman named Antoine Gibus invented a collapsible top hat known as the chapeau claque. This made storing the hat so easy that it fit nicely under the seat at the opera house, hence giving it the name the “opera hat.” This collapsible hat was a boon for hat wearers because coatrooms didn’t have enough space for these rather large toppers. Some top hat wearers folded up their hats and carried them under their arms, giving them the name, chapeau bras.
In 1850 Prince Albert started wearing top hats made of hatter’s plush fine silk shag) and this almost caused the demise of the beaver-trapping industry in America. Up until then most of the Top Hats were made of Beaver Fur felt.
The Top Hat made a huge resurgence in the 1930’s when Fred Astaire danced his way into the hearts and minds of fans. Virtually all “men of the town” had one in their wardrobe, and “black tie” always meant that a Top Hat was included.
Top Hats are also associated with Stage Magic. In 1814 the French magician Comte pulled a white rabbit out of a Top Hat (as did John Hen much later).The Top Hat was also popularized by Abraham Lincoln during his presidency. It is said that Lincoln would keep important letters inside the hat.
But despite all its legend and lore, the Top Hat remains the conventional headwear for British gentleman, Europeans and American Aristocracy. Because the top hat gives the wearer such a distinguished profile it has became a symbol of wealth and social standing (some say making a man seem taller, more refined and handsome).
The Top Hat’s lineage has bestowed upon it different monikers – cylinder hat, chimney pot hat, stove pipe hat or topper. But no matter what you call it the Top Hat will continue to be something of rare value and substantial elegance.
Photo Credits: Samir Hussein/WireImage
The Queen of England and Prince Philip in a Top Hat
If you thought you were seeing things lately on the top of ladies (and ingenues) heads, you’re right. They may not be hats in the old world sense, but they are headwear nonetheless. We saw them at the Royal Wedding, at the Kentucky Derby and I assume they will be in full plumage at the Royal Ascot (up June 18).
The fashion press is calling them formal millinery or feathered finery, but we call them a lovely diversion to the status quo of headwear. We saw them at the MAGIC show last year in the form of headbands and head jewelry, but now this trend has blossomed magnificently in the past few months – thanks to the Royals and their friends.
There is another interesting origin for this rather exotic head decoration – and it can be summed up in one word: Bollywood. Yes, that Eastern country that has such glorious monuments as the Taj Mahal and Temples that would make your brain burst with enlightenment. It’s also the site – and the symbolism – of the Oscar Award winning film, Slumbdog Millionaire.
Since then, what goes on in India is fodder for the fashion elite. It does help that such spiritual dignataries as Goldie Hawn, Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Love, Pray) and Madonna have embraced this trend of putting jewelry or a jewel in the third eye region of ones face.
Recently at the MET Costume Gala in NYC, young starlets and fashion avatars wore feathers and jewels on their heads. They also donned jeweled headbands (yes, Fergie did), jewelry hair clips and other beaded royal trappings. Our favorite flavor of jewelry headpiece was worn by Isabel Lucas, who is by the way an Australian actress (I did not know either).
If you ask fashionista New York Times reporter and photographer Bill Cunningham about this trend he will tell you it is head confectionery. As Cunningham has said, this trend is adorning the most fashionable tresses in a revival New York hasn’t seen for 50 years. Perhaps the fashion elite are just bored, or are they really embracing covering ones golden locks in favor of headpieces and headwear?
I would say “yes” and so would California hat designer Arturo Rios. “My business was good before and after the Royal Wedding,” said Rios. “I am getting a lot of orders from the UK, they seem to like my work.”
There is little reason to doubt this creative hat designer, whose work is a testament to style and creative wizardry. Rios uses feathers and jewels the way a painter uses color on his (or her) canvas. And it is this uniqueness that is propelling designers in the US to attract the attention of hat crazed British fashionistas. In the UK it not classy to leave your hat at home, and it is a constant reminder that style does not start and stop at the bodice.
At the Royal Wedding, the British First Lady, Samantha Cameron opted not to wear a hat, but donned a jeweled Erdem hairpiece. She did look rather bare headed (and people were a bit surprised) but she held her head up rather high despite the fact that all guests at the Royal Wedding were asked to wear hats.
At the Met Gala Stella McCartney wore a wavy jewel headdress, Naomi Campbell had on a sparkling clip and Kate Hudson sported a glittery jewel on her head (probably her mom’s influence). Isabel Lucas’s headpiece was made of pearl and gold and was designed by Lorraine Schwartz. Fergie, who does not seem like the princess type (bondage maybe) donned a diamond and platinum headband that was valued at $1 million (the rich are getting richer yes?) and Serena Williams wore a feather weight fascinator.
So there you have it – jewelry is not just for your hands or neckline, you can place it atop your head. And, as for those feathers you have hidden in the attic, it’s time to pull them out and place them firmly on your chapeau. Ask any bird and they will agree.
Isabel Lucas – Photo: Louis Vuitton
Fergie’s platinum and diamond jewelry is by Harry Winston and her hair accessories are valued at $1 million dollars. Fergie is also wearing platinum and diamonds on her ears and a finger - Photo: about.com
A NEW SUN PROTECTIVE HAT COMES OUT OF SAFETY AND NECESSITY
If you haven’t heard of the name ETSIS hats, you soon will. This new company (based in Hawaii) has created a new concept in headwear that protects all parts of the face and neck.
This ambitious sun protective headwear is achieved by using snap in panels that work as a draping device.
The idea was the brainchild of former sun worshipper Devra Wathen, who found out that the sun can be a marvelous companion at times, but too much of this good thing can be damaging to the skin.
“After having several treatments and spending hundreds of dollars to reverse sun damage to my skin, I didn’t want it to come back. I also had several spots burned off that were pre-cancerous. It turned out that my broad- spectrum sunscreens were not good enough. No matter how much I used, the brown spots and pre-cancerous spots kept coming back.
So I sprung into action and stopped pinning towels into my hats and started designing the ETSIS Hat, with snap in and snap out signature SunEscape Protection Panels that protect my face and neck. Rain or shine even on a cloudy day the UVA rays can zap your skin! It only made sense to cover up my face and neck the same way I do my arms and legs with long sleeve tops, pants or leggings. Finally “Clinical Merges With Fashion” when Escaping The Sun In Style,” said Wathen
ETSIS, an acronym for Escaping The Sun in Style™, was created by Wathen who was motivated by her own brush with skin cancer. After a few years of development, she created a hat line featuring a variety of brim widths and fabrics that offer UPF 50+ protection against direct and reflected sunlight, as well as additional sun protection with UPF 20 to 50+ fabrics.
ETSIS hats come in a variety of high fashion designs and seasonal patterns. The patent-pending panels are called, SunEscape protection panels. These protection panels offer UPF20-50+ and snap-in and snap-out to each ETSIS hat. When worn correctly, ETSIS protects the skin from the suns harmful UV rays; specifically to the cheek, month, nose, neck and lips – which are left dangerously exposed with most traditional sun hats on the market, said Wathen.
Dorfman Pacific is the exclusive manufacture and distributor of Etsis Hats.
Douglas Highsmith, President and CEO of Dorfman Pacific is excited about launching this unique product. “As skin cancer rates soar and people are more aware of the need for protection (especially with certain medical conditions or those on photo-sensitizing drug regimes) the demand for a TRULY FUNCTIONAL and fashionable sun hat has never been greater.”
It is no secret that harmful rays increase the aging processes of your skin, resulting in sun-damage (and in many cases one form or another of skin cancer), said Wathen.
Both women and men are undergoing cosmetic and surgical procedures in the quest to look and feel young but never before has a sun hat product been available to protect your entire face from the dangerous UV rays which reflect off surfaces such as concrete, water, snow, sand and glass.
The American Cancer Foundation estimates that 1 in 5 people will contract skin cancer in the course of their lifetime. In fact, skin cancer is appearing in greater numbers on the left side of the body (face and arms) due to sun exposure from driving a car. Many people don’t realize that daily activities like walking the dog, commuting to work, or even going for a run all add up to dangerous UV exposure over the course of a lifetime.
ETSIS hats are available for wholesale orders and will be in stores August 2011. For more information on this revolutionary new product line, or to read more about the sun and skincare tips visit the ETSIS online community and Escape The Sun In Style at www.ETSISHats.com
Hats with fabric panels retail for $60 to $85, and additional panels can be purchased for $30 to $40 in sets of three.
There used to be a saying that when the stock market goes up hemlines go down.
So, it comes as no surprise that long Maxi Dresses are the “hot” fashion item this summer. It’s been a while since we wore long dresses. If you remember ancient fashion history they were originally called “granny dresses.” In those days the fabric of choice was cotton and the hues were subdued colorful prints.
But those days are over; today the Maxi Dress is uninhibited and joyful, spirited and colorful. And forget about stiff cotton fabrics, today’s Maxi dresses come in comfy knits, jersey fabrics, chiffon, cotton gauze and any supple fiber imaginable. The reason – The Maxi dress lends itself to casual comfort with high alert elegance.
But the cool thing (literally) is that the Maxi dress doesn’t hug the body or reign in free expression, it allows the dress (and you) to move freely about.
It’s also a great way to stay cool – because you don’t need to wear too much underneath and the breeze (ocean or otherwise) can pass right by you without much fanfare (underwear is optional in this Maxi scenario, but don’t tell anyone).
Today’s Maxi Dresses are as varied as the body types that wear them. There’s the exotic jeweled halter necklines that ties around the neck and is bare in the back. Also, a real summer stunner is the bare bustier top with soft flowing skit.
Some of these longer lean dresses have empire waistlines, others have no waistline – and are really comfortable. For those with ample cleavage there are great Maxi Dresses with V-necklines or bathing suit tops. For a more casual slant to this longer look opt for a scoop neck (or tank top styles) in cotton knit.
What is surprising is that the Mini dress was the runway favorite last year, yet it is the Maxi dress that seems to have everyone excited this summer. And it’s not a thing of modesty as much as style and irreverence for tradition. Sure, short skirts have their position in the fashion hierarchy, but it is the Maxi Dress that seems to have cast a summer spell on all of us.
It seems the gals in Hollywood have a real crush on the Maxi dress as well.
Blake Lively was recently photographed in a red V-neck Maxi with gold braided straps and empire waist. Eva Mendes, Venus Williams, Kim Kardashian, Sofia Vergara and model Petra Nemcova (from “Dancing with the Stars”) have all been seen prancing around town in Maxi Dresses in solids and prints.
The great thing about the Maxi dress is that it is one way to eliminate the clingy haze cast upon us in those humid filled days. “I love long dresses, I wear them all the time,” said Medical consultant Carolyn Fitze. “I go to the grocery store and feel elegant when I wear a Maxi Dress. I have five of them.”
Fitze might be right; there is something regal and elegant about a Maxi dress. One reason might be that our posture seems to rise to the occasion when we don a longer dress that sways with the breeze of the moment. It also takes the guessing game out of what to wear on top or what goes with what (been there done that).
Perhaps that is the reason that women of all ages (and body types) have taken to this caftan-inspired dress that gives us real momentum to move forward (or backward) with ease.
RALPH LAUREN MAXI DRESS
Photos sourced from Freenewfashiondesign.com
If you walk around any of the parks or the beaches in Hawaii, you’ll see quite a few women with dark splotches on their faces. After my near scare with skin cancer, it takes everything in me not to rush up to these total strangers and yell, “Cover your face. Get out of the sun!”
Melasma (pronounced muh-LAZ-muh) is a common skin problem that is seen as irregular dark brown or gray patches primarily on the nose, forehead, chin and the upper lip. It’s so common during pregnancy that it’s also referred to as a “Pregnancy Mask”.
As if splotchy dark skin isn’t bad enough during pregnancy, Melasma is triggered by any rise in hormone levels such as taking birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy. If you’re experiencing the “joys” of Peri-menopause or menopause, Melasma is one more reason to stay out of the sun.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), 90% of the people who suffer from Melasma are women. Women with darker skin—Hawaiian/Polynesian, Asian, Middle-Eastern, Indian and African American—are especially susceptible to Melasma because they have more melancytes (color-making cells) than those with light skin. If you have a blood relative who had Melasma, your odds of getting these unattractive dark spots are even greater.
Diagnosing Melasma
Melasma is not dangerous. However, it can resemble some forms of skin cancer so I highly recommend that you have a dermatologist take a look. If the discolored area is bumpy, crusty or red, go in now!
Dermatologists usually begin their exam with a visual check and, depending on your condition, may use a Wood’s light, an ultraviolet light that helps them to see how deeply the Melasma has affected your skin. If they’re concerned about a greater danger, they may also conduct a biopsy.
What causes Melasma and how do you get rid of it?
The American Association of Dermatologists site three primary causes of Melasma:
Sun Exposure
Ultraviolet (UV) light stimulates the melancytes (color-making cells) in the skin and causes them to produce too much color. Because sun exposure (including exposure through building windows and while driving) has become such an integral part of our lifestyle, Melasma is more prevalent than ever. While people in colder climates tend to experience reoccurring incidents of Melasma during the summer, in tropical climates like Hawaii, women often suffer from these unattractive patches all year long.
Hormonal Changes
As I mentioned earlier, the increased pigmentation and skin discoloration of Melasma are brought on by hormonal surges during pregnancy, and can also be triggered by oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy during menopause. For most women, hormone-induced Melasma fades over a period of several months after giving birth, or when a woman stops taking birth control pills or hormonal therapy. For those who continue birth control pills or hormonal treatment, Melasma can be a persistent problem.
Cosmetics
Certain skincare, make-up and sunscreen products can worsen your condition. If you feel any form of irritation, check with your dermatologist. Once you’ve been diagnosed with Melasma, your dermatologist may suggest one or more of the following treatments:
Depigmenting Agents
Hydroquinone is a popular depigmenting agent and comes in a 2% over the counter, or 4% prescription formulas. Hydroquinone works by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme that’s involved in the production of dark pigmentation called melanin.
Tretinoin and Corticosteroids
Tretinoin is an acid that increases skin cell turnover and cannot be used during pregnancy. Corticosteroids are topical steroids with anti-inflammatory properties. These topical medicines are prescribed to promote skin lightening and may also be found in a “triple cream” mixed with hydroquinone.
Topical Acids
Dermatologists also prescribe topical acids such as a 20% solution of Azelaic acid, Kogic acid, or your dermatologist might recommend a chemical peel using glycolic acid followed with an at home bleaching cream to be used on a daily basis. *It is extremely important to go to a trained professional with experience when doing a chemical peel.
Procedures-IPL
If a topical treatment doesn’t achieve your desired results, your dermatologist may suggest an IPL treatment, Intense Pulse Light. This is a laser treatment using light energy absorbed by your skin, there is no peeling or any physical downtime. This treatment gave me the best results for attacking my sun-damaged skin.
*IMPORTANT FACT: All of the treatments and procedures listed above greatly increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Therefore, strict avoidance of sun is required during and after the procedure. Broad Spectrum sunscreens will not protect your skin!
Sun Protection: Most Inexpensive Form of Staying Beautiful! Simply put cover up!
You know me. I’m not one to mince words when it comes to sun protection. Just because I learned the hard way is no reason for you to do the same.
My Story:
A few years ago, I underwent a series of expensive treatments called (IPL) to remove extensive sun damage and hormonal Melasma from menopause.. During and following the procedure, I followed my doctor’s orders and fastidiously used what I thought was a good UVA-UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen on my face. (Neutrogena helioplex-broad spectrum)
To my horror three months later, the discoloration and spots reappeared. Why? Broad-spectrum sunscreens with physical blockers such as titanium dioxide or zinc dioxide are better than chemical blockers, but I learned the hard way that covering up is truly the only way to protect my skin. After having to return to the Dr for yet another pricey IPL treatment I started to pin towels into my hat to cover my face whenever possible-not very attractive, but effective. Of course now I wear an ETSIS Hat with my signature SunEscape Protection panels to “Escaping The Sun In Style”
I can’t tell you how often people forget about glare. Remember those metal reflectors that were all the rage 30 years ago? The reflective surfaces of sand, water, snow, are essentially doing the same thing .and can triple the amount of ultra violet rays your skin is absorbing. A simple tip: if it hurts your eyes and causes you to squint, it’s damaging your sight and your skin. My recommendation is to be an ETSIS woman and add a pair of stylish sun glasses to your our sun protection hats for women to add a touch of mystique and sure to have everyone wondering ‘Who’s that Girl” If you truly want to protect your delicate face from Melasma, brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles during any lifestyle activity when out in the sun.
* Sun Tip: Keep in mind ladies that even on a cloudy day Winter Summer Spring or Fall the harmful UVA/UVB rays can seriously damage your skin causing Hyperpigmantation such as Melasma, brown spots, or massive freckling. Don’t forget these rays also destroy your collagen and elastin.
Image from - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melasma
Group Question: Has pregnancy, menopause, oral contraceptives or hormone treatments caused your skin to discolor? What kind of sun protection have you tried? We’d love to hear from you.
If you’d like more information on Melasma, the American Association of Dermatology is an outstanding resource. AAD - http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/melasma
My youngest daughter loves animals, and swimming with dolphins is one of her favorite family vacation activities. She has swum with dolphins in the Bahamas, at Atlantis, and in Florida, at Discovery Cove.
To protect the marine environment, you can only use the non-chemical sunscreen provided by the dolphin place, so it occurred to me that maybe we should rethink our sunscreen purchases. I recently found MelanSol, which combines natural ingredients, antioxidants and mineral reflective UV filters.
The sunscreen helps prevent free radicals from aging the skin, and the creams are safe to use on babies. You can also protect your lips with MelanSol, so you don’t have to carry an extra lip-only sunscreen. What my kids like is that the sunscreen absorbs easily, so they don’t look blotchy, and if some gets in their eyes, it doesn’t sting.
For moms Dermatologists also recommend hats for increased sun protection. Dorfman Pacific has stylish ETSIS SunEscape hats, with lightweight protection panels to further shield sensitive face skin.
A boon for traveling moms, the hats roll and pack well.
For babies You can further protect an infant’s delicate skin with a Summer Muff, a lightweight organic cotton sac that you can use to line an infant carrier, stroller, or jogger. Minerals woven into the material provide an SPF of 50, so even if you forget the sunscreen, you can still keep harmful rays from your baby’s skin.
Not to be mistaken with ale… Kale is a crispy and delicious super food that will add years to your life, rather than sizes to your waistline. It wasn’t until I found this little treasure at the Whole Foods salad bar that I realized you could eat it raw. I generously filled my container with the mighty greens to give um a whirl…. the verdict? It’s Kale-lightful, it’s Kale-tastic, and it has earned a big gold star as my new favorite roughage!
Kale was thought to have originated in 600 B.C. in Asia Minor and brought to Europe in 600 B.C. It is part of the Brassica family (which also includes cabbage, collards, and Brussels sprouts) and was actually one of the most common green vegetables in Europe during the Middle Ages as it was so easy to grow and high in nutritional value. Today, Kale has changed considerably and has many different varieties, which differ in taste, texture and appearance. Some of the most popular are curly kale (deep green color – peppery taste), ornamental kale (green, white, purple color – more tender – mellow flavor), and dinosaur kale (known as Lacinato – dark green leaves – slightly sweeter than curly kale). Kale was brought to America by English settlers in the 17th century and has been showing up more and more on menus and recipes in the last few decades with good reason!
With only 36.4 calories per a cup, this cruciferous vegetable packs a lot of nutritional punch. Just one cup reaches your daily allowance for essential vitamins such as Vitamin A – 192.4% , Vitamin C – 88% , and Vitamin K-1327% to name a few. Kale is most praised for its rich amounts of beta-carotene which significantly reduce your risk of cancer, as well as, powerful antioxidants which detoxify the body from harmful compounds. It’s really no wonder Kale is given the super food stamp of approval. Try some this week and keep up your good kale-th!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Reduce Lung, Colon, Breast, Ovarian, Prostate and Bladder Cancers. Inflammation, Cataracts, Reduce cholesterol, control blood sugar, mental performance, Osteoporosis. Note – If you have kidney or gallbladder problems you should avoid Kale because of its oxalates.
Contains:Beta Carotene, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Zenathenic, Calcium, Lutein, Vitamin A, and Iron, Magneneum, Dietary Fiber, Copper,
Fun Fact: In the U.K. during WWII the cultivation of Kale was encouraged with a “Dig For Victory” campaign to inspire people to grow and eat Kale to gain the nutrients missing from meager war rationings .
When I was young my mother used to tell me that “it’s a man’s world.”
Singer James Brown (the late blues master) agreed. He wrote the song “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” in 1966 and sang it until the wheels stopped turning on his concert tour bus.
So it came as a surprise to me that the fall 2011 and Spring 2012 Paris collections are a twist of fate that embrace both masculine and feminine qualities. Menswear designers used women to show off their menswear collections on the runway and women’s wear designers (especially The Row by the Olsen twins) in the US used menswear looks to define femininity.
Let’s face it; Ralph Lauren has been embracing his inner androgyny genetic fashion code for years. He puts women in Western wear gear, adds a bit of lace or a ruffle, and defines it as classic couture. And when a man of his stature takes a woman off of a horse and puts her in cowgirl gear for nightime and fanciful daytime excursions, no one says a word.
But, for next fall and spring things are getting a bit mixed up in the gender arena. Christian Lacroix put his male models in Capri pants and zipper front bomber jackets reminiscent of the female form and Yogi Yamamoto embraced his inner feminine fashion code with wide legged pants and white shirts that cross the line of masculine and feminine.
Yamamoto even showed pants so wide that they looked like women’s skirts. Paired with blouson tops the look is decidedly feminine. But Yamamoto has always been a gender bender, so it comes as no surprise that his fall-spring 2012 show combines a bit of both sexes in a fashion sense.
And who can blame designers today? Women are making more money than ever before, and they occupy many a boardroom or corner office with a window at Fortune 500 companies. There are house husbands (I doubt they are confined to the house 24/7) who clearly don’t bring home the bacon, but do fry it up. And there are women who work all hours of the day and night to support their families in careers that were off-limits to women in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s (been there done that).
Another part of this decades’ gender confusion could be the emotionality of it all. Men, who were not allowed to cry in the olden days, are now encouraged to show their softer side. The cave man has mellowed a lot and is now what some may consider a marshmallow. Last season’s bachelor Brad Womack (from the TV show “The Bachelor”) brought his psycho-therapist on camera for relationship advice. This would have been taboo in the past, but it is now considered quite normal.
The stoic male of the magical myth of manhood has been updated and feminized to fit neatly into our inclusive cultural base. Men may be men, but there is nothing written that says they can’t indulge in a little bit of fashion that walks – not on the wild side – but on the safe and secure side of femininity. And right now, it’s not only OK, it’s highly acceptable.
Images from Nymag.com
Fall 2011 Jean Paul Gaultier
Fashion is getting larger – life is getting more exciting.
Welcome to the wonderful world of bigger is better. Platform shoes are higher and more elaborate than ever (think modern art), bangle bracelets are wider and more colorful and hats are becoming more architectural and less subtle.
Grand entrances await because fashion has taken its own path to greatness. The most recent example was the Royal Ascot in London, the 300-year-old horse race that gives over 300,000 people (including Royals) a reason to get dressed up, don a great hat and see and be seen.
We couldn’t resist the urge to gawk and take note of the large hats and headpieces that were inspired by this five-day extravaganza. With its history and heritage, the event is strict about dress codes – women must wear a hat or fascinator, mini-skirts are considered unsuitable and midriffs must be covered (that leaves out Britney Spears and Beyonce for sure).
Gentlemen must wear black or grey morning dress, including a waistcoat, with a top hat. All race-goers are encouraged to wear smart clothing, but there is no formal dress code.
That said the guests at the recent Royal Ascot event not only had on smart clothing (IQ a matter of opinion) but their hats were quite large and over-the-top, so to speak. There were lots of flying style saucer hats (similar to the recent Royal wedding attendees), feathered headwear, flower top hats, huge brim sun hats (Kate’s mom wore a double brim hat), duck shaped hats, flower fascinators (Elizabeth Hurley wore a great one) and very large poppy shaped headwear.
If you are shy and demure you either did not go to the race or you kept a low profile (literary). That made those in outrageous hats and dresses something of an art form. Not only that, Michigan-based hatter Gena Conti just found out her hat was picked for the Kentucky Derby Museum and it is rather large as well.
And the shoes, they are getting bigger as well. Huge platform wedge styles have ankle straps, lace-up fronts, multi-color five-inch soles and animal printed pumps. The designers who have created these chunky artistically inclined shoes have names like Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen and Miu Miu. These bold designers have gone where no one else has gone – to the moon. It is true, some of these shoes look like you could almost touch the moon the heels are so high, and others just look other-worldly. Not for the faint of heart, you have to really want to make a grand entrance in this type of footwear (or tower over everyone else).
And the jewelry – that is more a treasure hunt – than the authentic type is large, colorful and made for gawking. Wide colorful bangle bracelets come in neon brights (or neutrals) and are made in metals, mesh fibers and wood. And the best part is that more is better. Of course it goes against the grain of the old adage that less is more. But, in this time of excess and exhibitionism it’s perfectly fine to layer yourself to accessory oblivion.
Liz Hurley wears a flower-themed hat and a Versace suit (this woman is rarely without a man, her secret – we’re not sure. Perhaps it is the hat) – IMAGE from The Daily Mail
Images Sourced from Celebuzz
Jackie St. Clair – former girlfriend of Simon Cowell at the Royal Ascot
Purpose of Product: Helps with the delivery of your product into the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin.
Location on Body: Cheeks, forehead, just below the brow line, between brows, neck, and décolletage area. Some individuals (trained) have used on hairline.
Date Started: January 2011 recently had tried another hand held model and purchased this new electronic one by Bio Jouvance-Paris
Benefits/Positive: Helps promote collagen and elastin fiber at the epidermis and dermis level to help reduce wrinkles. It very effectively allows product to enter the skin’s protective layers and helps to deliver active ingredients into your skin. Jouvance also claims that this product works well on scars and stretch marks.
Special Ingredients: This is a tool so no special ingredients, but it is unique because it is made up of micro needle therapy much like acupuncture needles. This is also FDA approved
Negative/Reaction: I didn’t have a negative reaction when I used this tool with my skin care products. Be careful if you have sensitive skin or any type of acne. I might even suggest sharing with your favorite Esthetician or Dermatologist first.
Total Experience: I think this is one of the best at home tools I have come across in years. So far I am responding well. My products don’t just sit on top of my skin. I am sure other companies will be following soon and the price will come down substantially. You should keep in mind that the needles can become dull so your roller head should be replaced every 90 days depending on your personal use. If you go to their website they offer some amazing serums to use with your Bio Roller. I use one of their serums once a day; in the evening after I wash and tone my face. Or for a special evening out I might use Instant lift. This is one new tool and product to share with friends.
Beauty Tip: Always try new products or tools on your forearm area first. Always ask your Esthetician or Dermatologist if ever in doubt!
Location on Body: Any area of your skin that is directly or indirectly exposed to sunlight. Make-up may be applied over SOLAREX ™MD
Date Started: 2011
Price Points: 2oz $35.00 SPF #35 and #40 Waterproof for up to 8 hours
Benefits/Positive:This product is Sal-free and safe for fibromyalgia patients, cancer patients, lupus patients, and on most skin disorders. This product has had rigorous testing. Once applied allow to set for 15 minutes, this sunscreen will last for 8 hours whether you are in the water or on land. You should not have to reapply.
Special Ingredients: The Z-COTE micronized zinc and emollients enhance the natural radiance of your skin, and contain no PARSOL 1789 OR OXYBENZONE, the ingredients that have raised concerns with some other sunscreens. Some times it is not just about the ingredients that a product has in it but more about what it does not contain. This product is Sal-Free, Parabin-Free, Paba-Free, Padimate-O Free, Oil Free, and Unfragranced
Negative/Reaction: I always try products that I review and did not experience any negative reactions when applied and left on for the day. I used the product 3 days in a row.
Total Experience: Sunscreen lotions and potions all make their individual claims. Finding the right one for your skin type is like trying on blue jeans until you find the perfect fit. Always evaluate what your needs truly are. If you have health concerns that might be affected by the ingredients in a product then I suggest reviewing with your Dermatologist/Dr, MD first hand. We are seeing new products on the market everyday trying to protect us from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays but it does not mean that all products are created equal. SOLAREX™ MD is not entirely organic but seems to be safer than other sunscreens for individuals that are affected by synthetic ingredients.
2 oz SPF $35.00
• Beauty Tip: If you truly have concerns about chemical ingredients in products (sunscreens) then you should wear protective clothing i.e…long sleeve shirts, pants, gloves, sunglasses, and of course the right sunhat.
Location on Body: The face (can be used on the hands too).
Price Points: $349.00-$795.00 for Quasar-MD Pro. Can be found at stores such as Sephora, Neiman Marcus, or Amazon You might save a little if you find a promo code to use probably not NM more likely Amazon.
Benefits/Positive: The Baby Quasar or Quasar-MD can reverse the appearance of aging skin, shrink pores, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles with its light wavelength therapy. Benefits for your skin include, better circulation, firming, moisture retention, radiance, reduced sebum production, and is known to reduce inflammation caused from Acne and Rosacea. When these light wavelengths stimulate your cells, the theory is that it will stimulate collagen and elastin growth, help reduce fine lines, and soften the appearance of brown spots. The BQ and Quasar-MD also increases lymphatic drainage, which detoxifies tissues.
Special Ingredients: SequePulse Technology and light wavelengths that penetrate far beneath the surface of your skin. The BQ and the Quasar-MD use red and infrared lights to deliver low-level pulses of light to activate skin cells. The BQ and the Quasar-MD convert light energy already found in skin cells to promote the healing of acne and promotes anti-aging benefits.
Negative/Reaction: If you are limited on time for basic skin care this will take about 1 to 1 ½ hours per week to see results. To be used 2-3 times per week, each treatment is approximately 25 minutes. This is not a negative reaction to the device; I just wanted to point out the time commitment.
Total Experience: This is not a product that I have personally used. Although after speaking to two of my friends and after reading several reviews I am going to give it a try and just placed my order for one. My reasons for wanting to try it for myself is because the theory behind the product makes sense to me. Trips to the spas and dermatologist take time and are costly. I am looking for an at home device that will help with reversing some of my sun damage and also help promote healthy cell activity. Stimulating elastin and collagen is one of my goals, therefore keeping my skin fuller and younger looking longer. I am also looking for some reversal of the hyperpigmantation from all the sun damage from my early years spent in the sun. I have pretty good skin otherwise for my age (56) so I am looking at this as a good at-home maintenance program that is proactive and might help hold off sagging aging skin.
*Beauty Tip: If you love papaya then you will love this tip. Cut your papaya in half scoop seeds out and enjoy a wonderful healthy snack. Once you have eaten your papaya don’t throw away the uneaten skin part it is great to rub on your face as a treatment. Papaya has amazing enzymes for your skin.
Location on Body: To be used on clothing that would be worn to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.
Date Started: Early 2010 still using
Price Points: $1.99 per load of wash depending where you purchase.
Benefits/Positive: Easy to use wash-in sun protection. Sun Guard is safe for most washable fabrics, such as cotton, linen, rayon, and silk to mention a few.
Special Ingredients: Tinosorb active ingredient that provides the UPF 30 factor once clothes have been washed with the Sun Guard product and blocks 96% of the sun’s harmful rays.
Negative/Reaction: I did not have any negative reaction. With that being said be aware if you have sensitivities to laundry detergents or soaps in general.
Total Experience: Every little bit of sun precaution helps the fight against Skin Cancer. What an easy and cost affective way to help everyone in your family with sun protection. Not everyone is always going to remember to put sunscreen on and some individuals are allergic to the ingredients directly entering the skin. This product offers a great alternative to sunscreen lotions and potions. The protection is good for about 20 washings so you do not have to wash your clothes in Sun Guard after each wearing and nor is it necessary! You would use your regular detergent for in between washing. Best of all this adds UPF 30 to any clothing, so if you are watching your budget this is definitely worth every penny! Follow instructions on packaging.
$1.99/ for 1 oz does a standard load of laundry
*Beauty Tip: There are similar products on the market, but Sun Guard has been endorsed by the “Skin Cancer Foundation.”
When I think of Olive Oil I’m instantly transported to Spain when I was going to school at the University of Salamanca for a summer. My group traveled around by bus seeing all the sites and we stopped at an Olive orchard were they made a premium Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil. It was so good that we literally fought over the last drop! Olive Oil is a healthy fat and can transform a dish with just a little drizzle, lets find out what makes olive oil so lavishly delicious and nutritious.
90% of the worlds Olive Oil are cultivated in Mediterranean countries including Spain, Italy, Greece and Portugal. Other countries creating premium olive oils include Austria, Turkey and even South Africa. Production of olive oil was thought to have started before 4000BC and is the only vegetable oil that can be consumed fresh as it is i.e. juice from pressing olives. There are a few varieties of olive oil from extra virgin to extra light, which vary on quality and process. The extra virgin is the highest quality because it is the least processed form and is procured from the first pressing of the olives and contains no more than .8% acidity. This type of olive oil has the most superiors taste and is used for salad dressing, soups, and for sauces. Virgin olive oil is from the second pressing of the olives and has an acidly level of less than 2%. Pure olive oil undergoes some processing such as filtering and refining which results in a product which lacks strong flavor. Finally the extra light undergoes more processing and retains only a mild flavor of the olive and in some cases is even mixed with other oils. Olive oil has a multitude of health benefits because it is a monounsaturated fatty acid and has antioxidative properties.
In fact, studies have indicated that olive oil can help fight heart disease by controlling the LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while increasing the HDL “Good” cholesterol levels. All olive oil contains monounsaturated fats, however, the least processed extra virgin olive oil is the most healthy because it contains the highest levels of antioxidants, including vitamin E, carotenoids, and oleuropein which is said to strengthen the immune system. Olive oil is a healing fat and is delicate on the stomach because its easy to digest and can have positive effect on ulcers and gastritis because it activates the secretion of bile and pancreatic hormones naturally . Not only is olive oil good for your heart but also very unlikely to cause allergic reactions and is used in medical products as well as skincare. So next time your cooking for your family reach for the extra virgin olive oil instead of a stick of butter and your body and health will o-love it!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Colon Cancer, Ulcers, Gastritis, Heart Disease, Cholesterol,
Contains: Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Omega-3, Omega-6, Monosaturated Fat, Polysaturated Fat, and Energy
Fun Fact: Did you know that Olive Oil is also used in many skin care products for moisturizing the skin? In fact study’s on mice show that application of olive oil after exposure to UVB rays has preventive effect on formation of tumors and skin cancer ?
Living in Hawaii we are blessed with the world’s most perfect papaya. My favorite way to eat them is stuffed with low-fat cottage cheese or with other seasonal fruits and berries. Papayas are juicy, vibrant, and packed full of vitamins….It’s is the true breakfast of champions!
The papaya is the fruit of the Carica Papaya plant which is native to the Americas and first cultivated in Mexico centuries before the emergence of Meso-America cultures (including Mayas, Aztecs in 16th and 17th centuries.) The payapa tree can now be found in most tropical locations including, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Philippians, Bangladesh, Jamaica, Pakistan, India, etc. Interestingly in Hawaii the ringspot virus posed serious threat the papaya trees survival and as a result both varieties including the SunUp and Rainbow papayas have been genetically modified to resist the virus. The payapa tree is fruit bearing in less than 3 years and very sensitive to cold weather / frost. The ripe Papaya fruit is eaten raw, without the skin and seeds and the green papaya (most common in Thai cuisine) can be eaten cooked in salads, stews, soups or even in jellies. Not only is the papaya used for food but also in medicine and skincare because it contains healing attributes. Payapa skin can be used as an ointment for treating cuts and burns and the seeds even used to cause miscarriages for women in India, Sri-lanka and Bangladesh. It is also used in hair products because it naturally cleanses and conditions your hair. But that’s not all… Papaya is one of the healthiest fruits you can eat and has numerous nutritional benefits.
In Fact, the papaya is rich in proteolytic enzymes which are chemicals that enable the digestion of protein in your body. This is extremely important for proper digestion and control of premature aging. The papaya is used to restore healthy bacteria in your stomach and recommended for people with cancer. If your body does not digest properly it could leave your body without the proper nutrients which can effect your overall well being and health. Other enzymes include Arginine and carpain. Arginine is said to be essential for male fertility and carpain is considered to be good for the heart. Finally Papaya is an antioxidant and an excellent source of fiber, vitamin c and beta carotene. Eating Paypapa can prevent LDL “bad” cholesterol from oxidizing which helps fight aging and cancer! So how about it…. tomorrow put down the Jimi D breakfast sausage sandwhich and try a bright yummy papaya instead! Trust me your stomach will be smiling all day long ☺
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Digestion, Constipation, Treating Intestinal Worms, Anti-Aging, Colon, Morning or Motion Sickness, Anti-inflammatory, Burns, Cuts, Hair, Skin, Dandruff
Contains: Vitamin A, B, Protein, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Iron, Niacin, Ribofavin, Thiamine, etc.
Fun Fact: Did you know that eating to much papaya can turn the palms of your feet & hands yellow do to all the beta carotine.
The first time I tried a quince was in Spain in one hell of a grande sangria! At first I thought it was some kind of citrus because of its bright golden color but after some investigation learned to my shear delight it was more like an apple or pear with a wonderful sweet and crunchy flavor! Lets unpeel the mysteries of the Qunice and find out what makes this fruit so nutritious and delicious.
The Quince is thought to predate the apple in cultivation and in many cultures the quince may have translated to the word “apple” such as the Song of Salomon. The quince is native to Pakistan, Georgia and Iran but was introduced to the Mediterranean cultures of Greece, Romania, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Turkey, Serbia and Croatia. The fruit requires a cold frost to bear fruit at or below 7° and the longer the fruit can be left on the tree the better the flavor/ sweetness. Many quince (if don’t have a good frost or have ample time on the vine) are to sour to eat raw but are often used to make juice, tea, pudding, jelly, jam, or are baked, stewed, roasted and added to various culinary dishes for texture and flavor. Other uses for quince include medicinal purposes and in Iran in particular they soak the seed in water and great a 100% alcohol free cough medicine or to treat soar throat.
In fact, the quince has also been praised for helping digestion, lowering cholesterol and aiding those with gastric ulcers. Quince fruit is packed full of Vitamin A, C, dietary fiber, calcium, and magnesium which makes it a great snack for those watching their weight and maintaining overall health. Quince also has been said to have many anti-viral properties and is an anti-oxidant which means it fights the formation of free radicals in your body and reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. To top it all off eating quince regularly reduces stress and can reduce liver and eye disease. Wowzers….. the quince certainly has a lot of perks from visual to cardiovascular so how about replacing that processed grape jelly with some quince jam on your toast tomorrow morning and quiz your family on the queen quince!
One of my fondest memories as a child was during the late summer when the wild raspberry bushes would bloom in Aspen. My best friend and I would pick them for hours and come back eager to bake pies (literally covered head to toe in the delicious berry juice). Not only are raspberries beautiful and sweet, but they are packed full of essential vitamins! Let’s juice out the details…
Raspberries are from the plant species Rubus Idaeus and can be found all over the world in different species (varieties). They are thought to have originated in eastern Asia and were spread by travelers and animals during ancient times. Raspberries are perennial and bloom each midsummer but are now cultivated year round all over the world for enjoyment. Fresh, frozen, dried, juiced, jammed, in wine or even pureed are many common uses for this wonderful fruit! There are many varieties of raspberries including red, black, purple, or golden yellow, depending on the species and cultivar. Each variety of raspberry has its own unique flavor and is very commonly a hybrid with other berries; including the black berry to create new varieties. The leaves of the raspberry plant can be used fresh or dried in herbal medicines or for tea and praised for regulating a woman’s menstrual cycle.
In fact, raspberries (the red dark vibrant ones) are ranked among the top of all fruits for antioxidant strength due to their dense contents of ellagic acid (which reduces oxidative stress on your body). Ellagic acid (also found in other berries and some nuts) has been said to reduce blood pressure and carotid artery wall thickness. Raspberries are also packed with Vitamin C and have an impressive ORAC value (oxygen radical absorbency capacity) of 4900 per 100 grams, making them the most delicious ally to help your body fight the formation of free radicals that cause cancer and aging. But that’s not all, just 1 cup of raspberries contains only 60 calories and is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% daily value), vitamin C (50%), manganese (60%), b vitamins, folic acid and iron which means they can help you control your weight and your daily health goals…. Wow raspberries sure are nutritious and delicious! Buy some for your family this week and berry boost your body!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Cancer, Regulating Menstrual cycle, Blood Pressure, Aging, Colon, Tumors, Vision, Anti-inflammation, and Weight Control.
Fun Fact: There are over 200 varieties of raspberry and in Scotland raspberries have been crossed with the blackberry to produce the new Tayberry!
The other day, as I heaved myself up onto the StairMaster I couldn’t help but notice the message on the monitor saying “Results You Want!” The first time I was perplexed? How presumptuous of the machine to tell me what I want! But after my 12 min – level 10 – fat burner program I whole heartedly agreed. The Stair Master rocks! here is the skinny…
The machine was invented in 1983 in Oklahoma and unleashed to the public at the National Sporting Good Association trade show. Over the past few decades the stair master has improved by leaps and bounds by adding an alternator-based braking system allowing the user to experience a rotating staircase rather than two independents steps (like an escalator). This results in a hard core exercise machine that can whip anyone into shape.
All exercise is extremely important for your overall heath and wellness. Dedicating at least 30 min to an hour each day for aerobic and/or weight training is vital in reducing stress, increasing self esteem and feeling & looking good! Do yourself a favor and allocate an hour, 3-5 times a week for a trip to the gym – while you’re there jump on the StairMaster and stay in-step with your health!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure Cardiovascular Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, Insomnia, Depression, Self Esteem, Strengthen Immune System and maintaining healthy bone density.
Fun Fact: In 65 BC Marcus Cicero stated “it is exercise alone that supports the spirits, and keeps the mind in vigor ” and boy was he ahead of the curve!
Everyone wants to be a princess – or a prince – but for Kate and Will it is a reality.
And for everyone else who sees (or meets them) it is just as exciting.
The sparkling newly married couple was the talk of the town (and the world) on their 11-day goodwill mission to Canada and California. The press followed their every move (as did I) for signs of humanity and fashion leadership.
And they did not disappoint. Although all eyes were on Catherine to see what she would wear, William did his part to look like the royal “hottie.”
Catherine wore British designed dresses (and jeans) with the showmanship of an Arabian horse. In one of her first public appearances she looked extraordinarily elegant in a cream colored wrap dress with ruffle (by Reiss), pairing it with a red fascinator (by Sylvia Fletcher) and a diamond brooch from her grandmother-in-law. She also carried a fan shaped Anya Hindmarch clutch making her Jackie-esque in her poise and elegance.
There is no doubt that The Duchess of Cambridge (or Kate as we all knew her sans the title) is the next big thing in fashion. Not satisfied with the title of fashion icon, the New York Magazine Blog (the Cut) upgraded Kate’s status to that of Style Icon. The reason: “She understands the sartorial demands of her role and how to project her personal taste and even her personality to a world the palace is not yet letting her publicly, verbally address.”
Catherine’s lack of voice was offset by her demeanor and classically elegant style (Jersey Shore eat your heart out). And, for those of us who couldn’t wait to see this commoner-turned- royalty strut her fashion stuff in the US and Canada it was a regal royal fashion show. Aside from her shiny exuberance, this woman looks extremely happy. And why not, she snagged a prince – a real honest to goodness future King. So what’s not to be happy about?
That may be the reason she dressed so conservatively. I suppose if you’ve already nabbed the most eligible bachelor since time memoriam you don’t have to dress like a twit or a Hollywood starlet. And after seeing her wear a hand-painted Jenny Packham dress to a Santa Barbara polo match and then a bright green tie front dress by Diane Von Furstenberg, I was sure that Camilla (or the Queen) had coached Kate on what to wear. But regardless of the subtlety of her wardrobe Kate admirers were burning up the phone lines to get their hands on the same clothing she wore on the tour.
When the Duchess donned Sebago boat shoes to compete in a Dragon race Sebago sold 700 pairs (at $80 a pair) in a week. After Kate wore blue jeans to the Calgary Stampede, sales of the ($240 Goldsign) jeans tripled and the company’s web traffic increased tenfold.
And who could forget the hat debacle in Calgary. When the Royal couple arrived in Calgary for the opening parade of the Stampede they were given cowboy hats by Mayor Naheed Nenshi, but they did not put them on. Many were disappointed (and we assume) Brian Hanson, VP of Smithbilt Hats was not happy either, since he made the hats special for the royals.
But all was forgiven when Will and Kate showed up later in the day wearing blue jeans and shirts with their traditional Western hats. William looked dashing in jeans with a green and blue plaid shirt and Kate looked elegant (and string bean thin) in a white silk shirt with lace and slim jeans.
Watching this young couple emerge in public has become such a big deal that a crowd of 425,000 spectators lined the streets of Calgary — some coming a day early to stake out a spot. But that was nothing compared to the Hollywood mayhem surrounding the couple’s visit to BAFTA (The British Academy of Film and Television Arts) at the Belasco Theatre in LA. Kate wore a floor-length pleated lavender (Grecian inspired) dress with floating skirt and glittery belt by Alexander McQueen. The dashing prince wore a tuxedo with bow tie.
Celebrities, who live in the stratospehre aleady, were star struck (and over the moon) to be in the presence of the royal newlyweds. Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, Barbara Streisand, James Brolin and Nicole Kidman sat at the royal table and schmoozed with the newlyweds. The event was held to promote up-and-coming British talent.
The staff at the BAFTA event wore bowler hats and Union flag-inspired outfits giving the £15,000-a-table ($25,000) event a British feel.
It seemed like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (Will and Kate) had a smashing good time, even visiting a community arts organization in L.A.’s Skid row. They not only looked happy and healthy, but the royal couple’s appearances seemed to energize the good will between the monarchy and the citizens of the US and Canada.
From a fashion standpoint, Catherine (aka Kate) and William hit a home run.
Arriving in Santa Barbara
Image Sourced from people.com
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge watch the start of the Calgary Stampede Parade in Calgary, July 8,2011. (Jim Wells/QMI Agency)
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Image Sourced from Popsugar.com
I’ll never forget when I first learned that tomato’s were a fruit and not a vegetable… at first I felt deceived I mean how could anyone really expect me to believe that something that looks and feels like a vegetable in reality be a fruit? Tomato’s are wonderful both cooked and raw so lets unwrap what makes tomato’s so fruity, nutritious and delicious!
The tomato is originally from South America and was spread around the world via the Spanish Colonization of America finally reaching Europe and becoming incorporated into local cuisines’ in early 17th centuries. In fact, the Aztecs (and other peoples from that region) most likely cultivated tomatoes as early as 500 BC and even used them as part of as religious divination practices. Today we find tomato’s in over 7500 varieties worldwide including the ever popular Heirloom, Cherry, Beefsteak, and Grape tomatoes. Tomatoes are part of the nightshade family (along with eggplants and potatoes) and can be picked and eaten while still green (and not completely ripe). Its recommended to leave the tomato on the vine as long as possible to get the best tasting (and ripest tomato) as well as to leave them out of the refrigerator to retain their delicious flavor. Tomato’s are eaten a variety of different ways including raw, cooked, stewed, fried, juiced, or as a sauce. Although tomatos are classified as a fruit when using them in a culinary fashion they are considered a vegetable because of their savory flavor (not as sweet as other fruits).
The tomato is praised for benefiting your heart as well as many key organs because it contains one of the most powerful natural antioxidants called lycopene. Lycopene is not naturally found in the body but has the ability to flush out free radicals that build up and cause cellular breakdown and cancer. No other fruit or vegetable has as high a concentration of this powerful antioxidant as the tomato and studies show that eating specifically cooked tomatoes (more lycopene in cooked than raw) can help prevent numerous types of cancer, heart disease, and even neurodegenerative disease! Just 1 cup of powerful tomatoes has 59 calories, 29% of your daily vitamin c, 17% of your daily vitamin a, lycopene, calcium and iron making it a great low fat snack or condiment…..So this week why not substitute your normal breakfast side of bacon with some delicious fresh slices of cooked tomato…. it’s sure to keep you fit and fierce!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Prostate cancer, Heart, Breast Cancer, Cervical Cancer, Colon Cancer, Reduce Blood Pressure, Rectal Cancer, Stomach Cancer, Mouth Cancer, Neck cancer, and Neurodegenerative diseases
Fun Fact: American colonists believed tomatoes were poisonous until 1820, when Robert Gibbon Johnson proved to the villagers they where safe to eat by publicly eating a tomato on the courthouse steps in New Jersey
As I sit and sip my glass of wine I’m reminded of the classic tune from UB-40 that goes something like this “Red Red Wine… Stay close to me… Don’t let me be Alone!” I always thought they where promoting alcoholism and drinking sole style until recently when I learned that red wine is good for the heart, not just the soul. To my husband’s glee red Wine has ended up on our nutritional hit list –the disclaimer – don’t WHINE about it but all things in moderation!
Wine has a vibrant and important history, not only as a wonderful accompaniment to food but also an integral part of many Jewish and Christian religious ceremonies (or in the case of Islamic law strictly forbidden). Archeological evidence suggests that the first production of wine (fermented grapes) dates back to Georgia and Iran as early as 6000 BC; also being found in ancient India, China, Egypt, and Persia. Finally wine made its way to Europe and became imbedded into the culture easily with the strong support of the Roman Catholic Church. Wine comes in many white and red varieties including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and is used as both a food accompaniment (enhancer) or as a flavor agent in stocks or braising.
No doubt about it wine is an important part of our past and future. Red wine in particular is packed full of polyphernols which have antioxidant characteristics and if consumed in moderate amounts are directly associated with decrease in cardiovascular death (heart attack) by 30-50%. Red wine also contains resveratrol which is found in the grape skins and seeds and increases the HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) and prevents the LDL (bad cholesterol) from forming – meaning it can help reduce blood clots or blood vessel damage caused from fat deposits . Wine has filled the hearts and glasses of people from every nook and cranny of the globe. So join the vine and enjoy a small glass of wine… Cheers to your health!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Cardiovascular Disease, Blood Clots, Plaque formation in the arteries, Lung Cancer (in men), Alzhimer’s Diseases
Fun Fact: at the end of the 5th century BC the Greek historian Thucydides wrote “The people of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learnt to cultivate the olive and the vine”
Purpose of Product: Photo rejuvenation using red/blue (clear) LED light to deliver clinical levels of light therapy to your face. For at home use.
Location on Body: Face
Date Started: February 2011
Price Points: $250.00 Purchased at Nordstrom (Baby Quasar-$700.00 and up)
Benefits/Positive: If used correctly the red LED light diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, firms, plumps, evens skin tones, and hydrates your skin. The blue LED light is for acne and skin conditions such as Rosacea. It also kills the bacteria most commonly linked to acne (Pacnes bacteria). You can purchase the heads separately if you need to address both skin conditions, anti aging, acne, or a combination of both.
Negative/Reaction: I did not have a negative experience with this product.
Total Experience: I was really excited to find this type of light therapy treatments for at home use. With my very busy schedule I don’t always have the time to run to the spa. I have never been prone to acne breakouts so I purchased the Tanda Red for my anti-aging skincare routine. Since I am in my fifties, I am not trying to look thirty something, but the destiny of my skin’s future and how I age gracefully is important to me. I have just used the Tanda for the past few weeks and can tell you it is now a part of my routine every other day. My skin just seems to have a new glow to it and does appear plumper around my mouth area. I do wish they had offered this about ten years ago. I think using these types of skin care products in your 20-30’s could only benefit your skin as you age. The Tand device is simple to use but there is a time commitment (18 minutes) to treat your entire face. It is well worth it. I wish I would have taken before and after pictures, but I can already tell that this is one of the better skin care investments I have made. The Tanda light therapy in combination with my daily skincare routine gives me great confidence in how awesome my skin is looking for my age. When giving yourself a Tanda skin treatment try lying down with some soft music, a candle, take a 20 min time out and give yourself a relaxing treatment. You won’t regret it; you will feel refreshed and your skin will have a glow to it. You can purchase the red/blue heads separately depending on your needs. *Beauty Tip: Keep in mind that all of these treatments are not worth your time and money if you are not going to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging UVA/UVB rays. Remember the sun destroys your collagen and elastin no matter how young or old you are.
Purpose of Product: To maintain healthy eye moisture
Location on Body: Eyes
Date Started: January 2011 use two to three times per week
Price Points: Basic start up kit runs around $48.95
Benefits/Positive: Tranquileyes soft, flexible eye covers are designed to form a moist humid environment around the eye that prevents the evaporation of natural tears while moisturizing the delicate skin around the eyes. For the same reasons you moisturize your skin and drink water, try “Tranquileyes” and enjoy a multitude of benefits.
Negative/Reaction: I have not experienced any negative reactions.
Total Experience: Especially great to use for at home spa days or when you have been on the computer so much that your eyes are tired and gaunt looking. This is an amazing complete line of care for your eyes. I don’t have dry eyes or any type of medical condition that prompted me to try this product, I just thought it was way cool and I have a couple of friends that live in Las Vegas and they are always complaining about how their eyes always feel dry due to their climate (they were the ones to tell me about this). They had been turned on to it by one of their favorite spas as a part of a relaxation treatment. I wanted to try it because I spend a lot of time on my computer and lately my eyelids have been getting a dark color to them. I asked a skin care expert why I was getting these darker areas around my eyes and she said a lack of circulation and blood flow. I showed her the product and she said it couldn’t hurt and maybe taking a 15-20 min break once a day would be good for my eyes. So I thought why not give it a try. After a few weeks I can tell you that my eyes do not look so tired nor do they sting. At the same time the coloring looks better. I think my eyes were extremely dehydrated. This is a thumbs up! No matter if you use this product for its intended purpose, to use when you travel, or for a little at home spa relaxation treatment, it can only help you and your eyes feel refreshed. Makes a great Holiday or unique gift.
*Beauty Tip: With everyone having limited time these days for personal care; I combine my tranquil eye treatment and use the goggles when I am giving my self a Tanda light therapy treatment to protect my eyes from the LED red lights. Give yourself two treatments at the same time.
Dorfman Pacific, one of the largest full-line, in-stock headewar companies in the world, has added the ETSIS sun-protection hat line to its portfolio of brand. ETSIS (Which stands for “Escaping The Su in Style”) is a Honolulu-based hat line that provides UPF 50+ protection against direct and reflective sunlight. Available in a variety of designs, brim sizes, colors and seasonal patterns, the hats also feature patent-pending snap-in/snap-out UPF 20-50+ fabric panels to provide expanded coverage. Called SunEscape, the panels provide protection to the delicate skin on the cheeks, mouth, nose and lips.
ETSIS hats and matching panels are the brainchild of compnay founder Devra Wathen, a Hawaii resident and outdoor enthusiast whose blush with skin cancer led her to prototype, in 2009, the concept of a hat with removable protective panels to shield the cheeks, mouth, nose, neck and lips – the areas which are typically left exposed by other sun hats. ETSIS was incorporated to manufacture the hats in 2010, and the agreement for Dorfman Pacific to market them was reached this spring.
Ranging in retail price from $60 to $85, ETSIS’s numerous designs include the best-selling cotton canvas 5-inch brimed DayEscape (ET7) in black, khaki or white with matching panels; the all black or black and white cotton canvas SpaEscape (ET5); and the TravelEscape (pictured), in crushable ribbon, with a 5-inch brim in black, chocolate, olive or white. Additional panels are also available in sets of three for about $30 to $40 to further accessorize the hats and come in both land and water varieties. For information, visit www.etsishats.com or www.dorfman-pacific.com
When I was a kid my mom used to give me Flintstones chewable vitamins. They where pink, purple and red and where shaped like Dino the dinosaur. I remember always looking forward to eating one almost like it was a treat or candy…. Unfortunately when you grow up those fun grape tasting snacks are replaced with oodles of large icky tasting pills making it much harder to eat daily with a smile on your face… I mean really if one eats lots of vegetables, nuts, fruits, dairy, fish and grains how many supplements are really necessary for a healthy lifestyle? Lets find out together….
A vitamin is an organic compound that the body cannot synthesize itself and is required as a nutrient. To acquire nutrients the body must eat a diet rich in a variety of nutrients. Throughout history people understood that by eating different food sources they could cure illness such as scurvy with citrus foods. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries scientists where finally able to identify a number of vitamins and there benefits to human health and wellness. Today There are 13 Vitamins that are universally acknowledged as being needed for a healthy body and they include Vitamin A (food source – cod liver oil), B (rice bran), C (Citrus, fresh fruits), D (Code liver oil), B2 (meat, eggs), E (wheat germ oil), Vitamin B12 (liver, eggs, animal products), K1 (leafy green vegetables), B5 (meat, whole grains, many foods), B7 (meat, dairy products, eggs) , B6 (meat, dairy products), B3 (meat, eggs, grains) and B9 (leafy green vegetables). Vitamins are classified as either water-soluble (8 B vitamins and C) or fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) in the human body. Water-soluble vitamins are easily excreted by the body in sweat and urine so are important to take consistently and daily. Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed into the fat of your body and can accumulate over time. This means that it’s extremely important to not over eat fat-soluble vitamin supplements because it can lead to vitamin toxicity.
Vitamins are essential for normal growth and the development of multicellular organisms. When a baby develops in the fetus it grows by absorbing nutrients from the mother to create skin, bones, and muscles. Without the proper nutrients a child may have serious and permanent damage for life. Once born humans must continue to feed their bodies essential nutrients to maintain healthy cells, tissue, organs and to gain energy. Sooooo ladies the proof is in the pudding! If you are a health nut and eat high amounts of vitamins in your daily life then you don’t need to go overboard with supplements which in many cases contain levels of vitamins high above normal foods (and to much for the body to absorb). So be smart and never replace fruits and vegetables from your regular diet with daily supplements!
Fun Fact: The ancient Egyptians knew that feeding liver to a patient would help cure night blindness, an illness now known to be caused by a vitamin A deficiency
Lately I have been receiving a lot of calls from my younger girlfriends about skincare problems and they have asked if I can help them with some solutions. What to use? Whom to go see? Do you think I need to do this or that treatment? Please help me I’m desperate!
Most of them are in their early to mid 30’s, and are experiencing skincare challenges for the first time. Acne, brown spots, fine lines, some have kids and some do not. They are being barraged with several different issues, including and not forgetting those lovely things called hormones.
Many of them are my age and noticing the difference between my skin and their own. I tell both groups the same tricks and more times than not it’s like talking to a wall and without much success. As they say… “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink” in this case you can tell a women the sun makes her old, but you can’t get her to stop baking in it daily.
I have spent the past several years sharing my experiences with these gals, treatments I have had, products I have used and why now I am having to spend so much money just to try and look decent as I age. If I had only known then what I know now… Famous Last Words, right?
My best advice is become educated about your skin. A wonderful book that I read that really helped me understand my skin’s basics was “Write Your Skin A Prescription for Change” by two of the best Dermatologist in the country Dr. Katie Rodan, M.D. and Dr. Kathy Fields, M.D. The book is simple, straightforward and is easy to skim to chapters pertaining to your individual needs. Hats off to R&F for sharing this valuable information!
It’s pretty simple ladies – eat healthy, exercise, follow a regular skin care routine, and STAY OUT OF THE SUN if you do not want to look like an old wrinkled Shar-Pei. Most important wear your ETSIS hat, SunEscape protection panels, driving gloves, and sunglasses each and every day and Escape The Sun In Style™! You Skin On Sun
I just love when the summer arrives and at the local farmer’s markets you find fresh seasonal zucchini of all sizes, colors and flavors. My husband often grills them with a touch of salt and olive oil, which really brings out their inner zucchininess and are just delicious as a side dish or as a vegetarian meal! Zucchini is actually a fruit packed full of nutritional goodness lets learn more…
Zucchini is part of the squash family and traditionally cultivated in temperate climates that have a summer and winter change, such as Europe, Asia, Austria, Canada, United Kingdom, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States (California mostly). Zucchinis, like their other squash relatives, have ancestry in the Americas and then where brought over to Italy and other locations to be cultivated around the late 19th century. For culinary purposes the zucchini is treated as a vegetable and is used more to achieve a savory dish, however, botanically the zucchini is considered a fruit and part of the zucchini flowering process. Zucchinis come in a few varieties including light green, golden yellow, or even orange in color. The Zucchini flower can also be eaten is often times seen as a deep fried fritter or even as tempura! It seems that each culture has welcomed the zucchini with open arms and we find it in all types of unexpected places including soufflés, breads, in cold and hot Thai & Vietnamese salads, in Mexican quesadillas, breaded and pan-fried Italian dishes, in Bulgarian dips, in Grecian entrées that are stuffed with meats, rice and herbs and even in Spanish versions of pisto which is like a ratatouille… and the list goes on!
Ok so we know Zucchini is delicious lets find out why it’s nutritious. Zucchini is super low in calories, so good for a diet or to keep you looking your best (having only 36 calories per one full cup). Zucchini also has dietary fiber, which helps lower cholesterol by attaching itself to bile acids that the liver makes from digesting fat! This increases regular bowl movements and prevents carcinogenic toxins from settling in the colon (which can help prevent cancer). Zucchini has Vitamins C & A, which are powerful antioxidants and also praised for there anti-inflammatory uses. Finally, Zucchini helps lower blood pressure because it contains 10% of the daily allowance of magnesium a mineral, which has been proven to reduce the chance of developing stroke or heart attack. Since Zucchini also contains potassium that can alleviate stress and lower blood pressure…. So now that you got the scoop go zucchini crazy this summer!
May Reduce Risk or Help With: Lower cholesterol, low fat, prostate health, anti-inflammatory, heart attack and stroke prevention, alleviate stress, and wound-healing.
Fun Fact: White zucchini (summer squash) is sometimes seen as a mutation and can appear on the same plant as its green counterpart. Image: Keattikorn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Location, Location, Location, is not just for real estate but it can be just as important when it pertains to your skin. As most of us know, traveling or moving is the way we change our location and when doing so our skin care and skin care products don’t always travel so well. Sometimes we have to write ourselves a new prescription for change, no matter if it is seasonal or going on a trip.
In Hawaii we have lots of sunshine, humid climate, salty air, no real seasonal changes, and tropical breezes. In Colorado they have dry climate, high altitude, four seasons, and lots of sunshine, both locations require two different types of skin care products. Even something as simple as hard or soft water can make a difference when washing your face. I have lived in both places and have learned first hand that the products I used in Colorado did not work for me in Hawaii or vice versa.
Dryer Locations- After living in Colorado for more then 30 years I had my skin care routine down to a science. I focused on products that kept my skin hydrated, moisturized, drank plenty of water, and protected my skin from free radicals and harmful UVA/UVB rays. Colorado represents one of the locations that is Warm/dry and cold/dry and also has very low humidity. Most importantly I put a humidifier in my bedroom, eventually we did one for the entire house. Denver can get up into the low 100’s in the summer and hot temperatures combined with low humidity suck the moisture from your skin as well as making you feel dry and cracked. When winter comes, cold wind and low humidity is notorious for causing dry, flakey skin. You might want to limit extremely hot showers, which can further dry and irritate the skin. For locations with dryer climates keep your entire body hydrated and use infuse extra moisture at all times. One of my favorites for my body is Body Butter by La Licious.
For my Face:
You might not think that your pores get blocked in a drier climate because you sweat less but this is not true. The dry air mixed with dust and dirt clogs your pores in dryer climates (one of the main reasons to make sure you cleanse your face twice a day). I highly suggest using an organic gentle cleanser such as EMINENCE Coconut Milk Cleanser and use with the Clairsonic Facial scrubber. Try to get a professional facial at least once a month for deep pore cleansing. Your skin care routine does not need to be extravagant but it does need to be consistent and done on a regular basis.
Look for skincare products that restore your skin to a healthy moisture balance while protecting it with skin-saving antioxidant vitamins and nutrients. Antioxidants are a great weapon in the fight against free radical damage caused by pollutants. There are several on the market to help you such as Skin Medica- (TNS Essential Serum), Celex-C, and IS Clinical. Some skincare companies offer 2 or 3 different essential serums (such as the Vitamins A, C, E) to use right after a good pH balancing toner. Make sure you moisturize in the am and pm and consider a heavier moisturizer at night that nourishes and rejuvenates skin over night by restoring lost moisture and promoting healthy cell turn over. Most skincare companies offer a wide range of products to fit individual skincare needs and different climates. Visit some of your beauty bars such as Sephora, their people are knowledgeable and can help pick the right products for you (or better yet get a recommendation from an esthetician or dermatologist in your area and see what they are recommending for your particular climate, location, and skin!).
High Altitude and The Sun:
Lets not forget in a higher altitude and dry climate sun precaution and protection should be at the top of your list. The sun is the number one reasons we loose collagen and elastin in our skin and it is directly related to brown spots, wrinkles, and yes skin cancer! Don’t be fooled and think that the winter sun is less intense then the summer sun, it is not! Did you know the reflection off the snow is three times more potent then when reflecting off a surface such as concrete? I suggest to always wear protective clothing with a great sunscreen; a broad spectrum (preferred) with anti-oxidants, zinc or titanium dioxide, and natural moisturizers are best. There are several natural/organic products on the market some of my favorite are www.PureSunscreen.com. WWW.koola.com, and www.sunputty.com. Or if you prefer synthetic manmade products such as La Roche-Posay or Rodan & Fields, both offer a quality product for daytime that includes your daytime moisturizer.
Tropical, High Humidity, and lots of Sunshine:
About eleven years ago I found myself changing locations and moving to Honolulu, Hawaii-this was a radical change for my skin and my skin care products. A prescription for change was needed.
At the time I was used to protecting myself from the sun but the change in humidity and everyday warm temperatures presented new skin challenges. I never had breakouts, humidity is good but it can also put your pores into overdrive, perspiring to cool you down, but at the same time clogging your pores. All of a sudden I was breaking out and even though there was high humidity I still felt dry. To keep pores clean and clear in warm, humid climates such as Hawaii, use a clarifying facial cleanser such as Kiehl’s, Clinique, SkinMedica, and ibotanical garden. Use a toner that helps to balance your pH levels, there are several on the market some for anti-aging and some to help reverse sun damage, check out Rodan and Fields. Antioxidants that combat free radicals such as…Estee LauderNightly Repair Serum are necessary. Consider using an exfoliate scrub a couple times a week to remove dead skin cell buildup that clogs your pores along with your Clarisonic Facial Scrubber. Schedule yourself for a deep cleansing facial once a month including (extractions) is necessary.
Tropical Skincare Body:
While living in paradise you might not think that we get dry skin but we do. Depending on your lifestyle activities and how much daily exposure to the salt air/water, trade winds, and of course the sun all play a big part in what your skin’s overall appearance is like. At the same time other individuals end up with extremely oily skin for the same reasons. Just because we have high humidity doesn’t mean we don’t have to moisturize some of the time, in actuality it is quite the opposite. I like using products that use botanical ingredients and essential oils-these products generally do not contain alcohol (that only leads to dryer conditions). Again one of my favorite lines that offer several yummy items is LaLicious (paraben/sulfate free) that has trademarked SugarSoufflé Body Scrubs (Coconut oils and Pure cane sugar crystals), Body Oils, and Whipped Body Soaps. At lease twice a week I use the body scrub with a loofah, blot dry with a towel and then mix a little body butter and a little body oil together, put on some cotton pj’s and just soak up all those delicious ingredients, leaving my skin feeling so silky and soft you would think I was in my twenties.
Traveling and Skin Care:
One time on a trip to Las Vegas I noticed that the water was very different at the hotel we were staying at, it felt as if there was a residue from the water softeners the hotel was using. Every morning I would wake up with the puffiest eyes as if crying all night, and my skin actually started to get rough red dry patches (dry climate) after only being there for 48 hours. I requested a room size humidifier be put in my room-it helped. La Licious Body Butter to the rescue for the dry patches, Bliss orDHC Eye Pads, I always try to chill these for a few minutes when possible-highly recommend when traveling. Who cares what I look like on the plane I want to look great when I get off the plane.
Most of us live in areas with seasonal changes and are used to having different products for these times and have a couple of options. Check to see if what you have in your at-home arsenal of goodies has something you can use when traveling-if not head to the beauty bars for samples (or go on line and ask for them). Most products really can be used no matter what your location but keep in mind seasonal changes; climate changes, and your location all play a part in “Your Skin’s Destiny”. Granted it might only be one or two items you need to change but that can make a big difference to the overall appearance of your skin.
If you have been reading any of my blogs by now you know that I am consumed about my skin’s future destiny. There is only so much one can do to reverse years of sun damage but I am proof that if you put together a skincare routine, just like you would a daily workout to keep your muscles toned, it can make a big improvement in the overall appearance of your skin tone.
At the same time there really is only so much that your at home daily routines can provide. Good skin care products are a must, and washing your face am/pm is a must, but sometimes we need a little extra professional help. If you are not one to go under the knife for the ultimate facelift and prefer an alternative, then continue reading about some of the treatments I have received over the past few years. They are a lot less invasive and the results, not so scary.
One of the treatments I really like is Thermage. I had my first Thermage treatment about four years ago when it first was offered at my Dermatologist’s office. It did come with some discomfort and I was a bit nervous, but the results were worth it. Since then the equipment and treatments have been improved upon greatly, therefore longer lasting results.
Thermage consist of a hand piece the Dr uses that sends radio frequency current deep into the skin and heats the superficial and dermis layers. As a result, the collagen is heated and contracts and the fibroblasts in the skin start producing additional collagen. The only side effect I had was some reddening for about five days. Nothing my makeup didn’t cover up.
Within 45 days I could tell that my skin felt firmer and the best thing of all were all the compliments I was receiving from friends and strangers. “You look great! What are you doing to your skin?” was a repetitive question I began to hear. Of course I would answer with a list of my favorite and latest arsenal of goodies for my skin’s ultimate maintenance. Anything but the knife.
Some of my friends have received the same treatment and all of us have had slightly different results. It really does depend on your skin’s history and how much sun exposure you have had in the past, how you take care of your skin today, and what you are doing to be proactive in reversing the years of sun damage you have already accumulated.
Keep in mind, once you start on this journey of skin rejuvenation you really need to make a commitment to cover up when exposed to the sun. Especially when driving you do not realize how much sun your entire upper body is exposed to on a daily basis. Wear your ETSIS, hat they are the best anywhere, anytime. Sunglasses save you from crow’s feet, and yes it is cool to wear gloves when driving ☺
Although I have never tried Thermage on any other parts of my body, it has become popular for the stomach, and thighs too. I would love to hear from any of you that have had Thermage or other skin treatments that have helped improve Your Skin’s Destiny!
Location, Location, Location, is not just for real estate but it can be just as important when it pertains to your skin. A couple of my friends live in Colorado, in high altitude, a dry climate, and 300 days of sunshine a year.
In Hawaii we have lots of sunshine, humid climate, salted air and tropical breezes. I have lived in both places and have learned first hand that the products I used in Colorado did not work for me in Hawaii or vice versa.
I spend a lot of time searching for new products that focus on sun precaution and anti-aging solutions. Over the past several months I have turned my attention to clothing that protects me from the sun. Of course by now you all should know about ETSIS Hats, they offer the best sun hats for any activity or occasion, no matter where you live. Escaping the Sun in Style never looked better. Check out their web. www.etsishats.com
Recently a friend of mine that lives in Colorado turned me on to an amazing new clothing product called Sun Soul. This amazing new product has a sporty feel to it and looks similar to a long sleeve rash guard shirt you would wear to the beach. The big difference is the more you wear this shirt the better your skin looks. I know it sounds kind of strange but it is based on light therapy and a Patent pending fabric that interacts with the sun’s UVA rays. It is similar to a light therapy treatment one would receive at the dermatologist’s office; similar to IPL or a blue light treatment.
It is considered “Skin Care You Can Wear.” The Sun Soul line is offered in two colors. The Blue Mode is for acne, Rosacea, and Psoriasis. The yellow Mode helps fight sun damage, stimulates collagen, and helps fade brown spots. When worn in the sun for at least six hours a week and a minimum of 3 months, visible results can be seen. The other benefit is the clothing is UPF 50+. Remember you must still wear a broad- spectrum sunscreen where- ever your skin is exposed to the sun and re-apply often. Read more on SunSoul on our website here https://etsishats.com/blog/sun-protection-clothing-for-women/
Ok, I just have to share one more thing with you. If you have read any of my other blogs you know by now that going out in the sun is challenging for me. Now I am armed with two amazing products, between the ETSIS SportEscape Hat and the Sun Soul clothing I am back out in the water and my stand-up-paddling is improving weekly!
There are hundreds of thousands of skin care products on the market today, most making some incredible claims that they can literally change the course of your skin’s destiny in as little time as 6 to 8 weeks. Which ones really work? How do you find the right products for your skin type? The never-ending search for the perfect product, the fountain of youth, or a “Genie-in-a-Bottle” that can grant us our wish for perfect skin is promised by many skincare manufacturers.
There are some basic rules of thumb to keep in mind that can influence the effectiveness of the skin care products you choose to purchase; such as where you live (climate), the type of water (hard or soft), and your lifestyle. Do you spend a lot of time out doors, do you commute back and forth to work exposing yourself to stealth sun exposure. Do you have a poor diet? Do you smoke? Do you drink? All the above can have a dramatic influence as to whether your skin care products can help you have vibrant youthful skin. You have to be healthy on the inside in order to have skin care products do their job on the outside.
Another very important step to choosing your skin care products is to have your skin analyzed by a professional. Get a recommendation from a friend for a good esthetician. They are trained professionals and most take pride in their knowledge and ability to help customers make educated choices when purchasing skin care products. Once they evaluate your skin, lifestyle, and goals they can start making suggestions as to what products you would need for desired results. If you have a sensitive skin condition such as Rosacea, acne, Melasma, or severe sun damage I suggest seeking a consultation with a well known dermatologist in your area.
Another important step is to use your products as directed, and to use them on a daily basis. Most skin care companies want you to use their entire line of products. They don’t want you to mix products from different lines, stating you won’t reap all the benefits or reach desired results. This theory could hold true to certain skin care lines that are ph balanced and specifically designed to interact with one another, or products that are all natural as opposed to synthetic ingredients might not work well when mixed. A good rule of thumb is if you combine two products, and if after applying your product it starts to peal off, this then is a good indication that the two products don’t mix. The order you use your products and follow directions is an important step not to be missed.
*Never, never, go to bed at night with makeup on!
Your skin care needs can change as often as the seasons. What you used in your 20’s won’t work in your 30’s or even what you used in your 30’s won’t work in your 50’s. Other influences such as teenage hormones, pregnancy, post pregnancy, menopause, all can have a major effect on your skin; the need to alter your skin care regime and or products could be 20 times in one’s life. Educating yourself about products is important (but we can’t all be gurus in everything so look for your own personal skin care expert).
Keep in mind that all these big companies spend millions of dollars a year training sales people, esthetician, doctors and nurses about skin care and what makes their product line right for you. You can set up an appointment for a consultation (most of the time they are free). Ask for samples, or buy just a travel size to see if you like the products before any type of investment, big or small.
I look forward to sharing some of my experiences with you when it comes to skin care products that I have personally used. Check out some pf my product and skin care tool reviews Remember beautiful skin can be achieved with good products, regular facials, and a commitment to protecting your skin when in the sun.
Over the past five years the choice of skin care products that I have used has varied for a variety of reasons. Most of them were to reverse the signs of sun damage and premature aging. I have used products from the drugstore, direct -mail, Doctor’s offices, resort spas, you name it and I have tried it. There truly are a number of great products on the market today so finding one for yourself should be interesting and informative…NOT A DAUNTING EXPERIENCE. Spend the day at Neiman Marcus cosmetic counters or go to Sephora’s start asking questions. Visit a spa, get your skin analyzed. Ask for samples!!!!
Recently after spending a few days at the Manele Spa and Resort I came across a line of natural, organic, parabin- free, gluten free, no additives or preservatives. I had never used a skin care line such as this before, and after receiving a facial my skin was glowing. The ingredients are chosen for their pure vitamin infusions and high bioflavonoid content.
I immediately asked for some product information and started to read, the more I read the more intrigued I became about this skin care line. Eminence organic skin care brings together high quality Hungarian ingredients with an old-world knowledge of herbs, fruits, and flowers. Eminence is also committed in the fight against global warming. Their commitment to keeping the planet green crosses over all aspects of the company, from farming, harvest, green packaging, to getting products to you.
EMINENCE addresses a variety of skin concerns such as premature aging, sun damage, acne, loss of vitality, tone, and radiance. The cures come from nature with ingredients that are good enough to eat and impart health and beauty to your skin.
Whether your skin is dry, normal, combination, sensitive or oily a trained esthetician fills out a customer card with recommendations as to what products you should use for at home treatments. For those with specific problems such as acne, Rosacea, or severe dryness there seems to be a natural solution for all skin types.
I decided on one of their travel gift sets called the Exclusive Rose Collection. This particular line is for sensitive skin that might have some redness to it and need a bit of calming. This is a great collection if you have Rosacea. Even though my skin isn’t irritated or in need of any calming I liked the fact that it was gentle and I love the smell of fresh roses. Just because a product is organic and natural doesn’t mean you can’t have an allergic reaction or get a rash from it. That is why I like to try the travel kit size before I really invest more monies to make sure I have a positive experience.
I was excited to get back to Honolulu and try my new products. The collection included the following: Sweet Red Rose Cleanser for all skin types made with fresh vitamin-rich juices of fragrant roses and maize germ oil. Rosehip and Maze Exfoliating Masque: I really liked this because it is gentle enough to use everyday if you like. Rosehip extract delivers high quantities of antioxidant Vitamin C, honey hydrates and zinc oxide calms. Next was Couperose-C Serum; Serums are an essential step to keeping the skin well hydrated and to give it a concentrated infusion of vitamins and nutrition. Next was a fabulous Sweet Red Rose Whip Moisturizer: This is a active anti-wrinkle cream with natural fruit acids for dry/dehydrated skin works day and night and is one of Eminence’s most popular products.
All in all I give this product a thumbs up. I am really anxious to share with you their line of all natural sun precaution products. Not everyone likes all the chemicals that are in these new broad -spectrum sunscreens on the market. We are not even sure how effective they really are. There are also some great mineral powders for sun protection too by Eminence. What are some of your favorite organic skin care lines?
There was a time when I couldn’t wait to greet the summer sun, feel its rays upon my skin and seek out the perfect tan that I thought was the epitome of health and beauty. Now, at 55, those same rays that I welcomed so readily have transformed me into someone who is forced to live my life in the shade.
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma. Together they will affect more than 1.3 million people this year–more than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers combined.
What do all these skin cancers have in common? Their cause: long-term exposure to ultraviolet light, otherwise known as UVA.
UVA light does more than age your skin (remember: UVA = aging, UVB = burning). Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause damage to specific genes in your DNA that is responsible for controlling cell division. When these genes are damaged or mutated, and are not repaired properly, they malfunction, and in some cases cause cells to divide uncontrollably. When that happens, a tumor develops and the result is cancer.
The danger of UVA is everywhere. Unlike UVB which burns hottest in the middle of the day, UVA is as strong at 7am as it is at noon and at sunset. It penetrates through windows, loosely woven clothing and even plastics, damaging the skin on your face, hands and arms as you drive–without you even noticing.
While this may sound scary, it brings me back to the reassuring statistic that more than 90% of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure, which means 90% of skin cancers are preventable.
Here are the five facts to get you thinking about–and hopefully taking steps toward–protecting your skin.
90% of all skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun.
That’s 90%! I’ve said it before, but it’s still astounding to me because according to the American Cancer Society, 90% of all skin cancers are preventable. Sadly, fewer than 33% of Americans routinely use skin protection.
80% of how your skin ages is up to you.
In their book, Write Your Skin a Prescription for Change, dermatologists Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields (of Proactive fame) state that our genes account for only 20% of how our skin will age. In other words, we have control over 80% of our skin’s health!
Only 23%of your lifetime dose of UVA has been accumulated age 18.
Every decade, we add another 10% of UVA damage. So, covering up from the sun can keep your skin looking younger while everyone else ages. How’s that for making your girlfriends jealous?
One blistering burn when you are young can double your chances of developing skin cancer as a adult.
As a parent, that’s frightening, especially because sun damage is cumulative. Now is the time to start your children on good sun-prevention habits.
There is no such thing as a healthy tan.
Freckles and tans are your skin’s way of reacting to injury by the sun. Look and feel the skin inside your arm; this is how all your skin would be without exposure to the sun.
So, why don’t we all cover up?
I’ll be honest here. Sometimes it’s vanity. What fashionable woman would wear a lovely dress and don one of those bulky, floppy outdoor hats made for mountain climbing? And although sunscreens do a good job of blocking UVB, they’re less effective at stopping UVA. It wasn’t until my skin became so sun-sensitive and I had to pin towels (yes, towels) to the sides of my hat that I knew I needed protection.
Reflective sunlight can be just as damaging as direct sunlight, so I developed ETSIS hats with SunEscape Protection Panels as a fashionable way to protect my face and neck while “Escaping The Sun In Style”. Do you have a skin cancer story or preventive idea you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you.
Aloha,
Devra Wathen
P.S.
Facts listed above are from pages 52, 2, 49 and 21 of Write your skin a prescription for change (link to: http://www.amazon.com/Write-Your-Skin-Prescription-Change/dp/0982460805/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1308127069&sr=8-1) by Katie Rodan, Kathy Fields and Lori Bush. It’s one of my favorite resources for skincare and covers everything from day to day skin care to the latest in treatments for specific skin conditions such as Melasma, Acne, and most of all damage done by the SUN.
Great minds create great fashion. So it comes as no surprise that Steven Kokin has broken the sound barrier of style with his collection of hats, wraps and jewelry.
KOKIN (as he likes to be called) started out wanting to be in show business but after taking courses in millinery at FIT in NYC he changed the direction of his creative impulses.
And luckily for women everywhere KOKIN remained true to his millinery roots. He started making hats in his kitchen and eventually got a loft in New York City. It wasn’t long before high-end stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Barneys and Saks Fifth Avenue came calling. Soon afterwards designers like Oscar De La Renta, Bill Blass, Pauline Trigere, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Zac Posen (and others) wanted hats made by KOKIN for their collections.
Although KOKIN likes to keep a low profile, he is anything but. He makes one-of-a-kind hats for socialites and celebrities from coast to coast (and in Europe and Asia) and recently opened a retail store on the tony Upper East Side of Manhattan. In his retail store KOKIN gets free reign to explore the upper reaches of his cerebral cortex. He makes fashion and fine jewelry, as well as wraps that coordinate with his terrific hat collection. He also has a flair for decorating his stores (and pop-up stores) with élan.
KOKIN hats are featured in magazines – he recently had a dynamic fashion spread in Italian Vogue’s Fine Jewelry Magazine. It featured floppy hats, a silk charmeuse turban and a sexy Carmen Miranda style. The colors were blazing and the styles were out of this world.
But that’s what makes KOKIN a national fashion treasure. He knows there are boundaries, but makes it his business to go beyond them. “I wish to respect the rules and at the same time break them. I have always believed that a woman’s taste may change, but her style should remain eternal,” said the Buffalo, New York native.
It seems that the movie (and TV) community has also taken a sip from the KOKIN fashion pool. His hats were seen in the movie “Clueless,” as well as “Dr. T & The Women” (with Farrah Fawcett, Laura Dern, Shelley Long Richard Gere and Helen Hunt) and in the “Sex in the City” series.
KOKIN is currently working on a new film with some big (no huge) names in show business but is mum about the details. “I cannot give you any details right now, I am sworn to secrecy – so don’t ask,” he said.
We can say that a blue Kokin hat adorned the head of actress Sofia Vergara in a recent ad for Diet Pepsi with soccer star David Beckham. We can also say that his new retail store features one-of-a-kind couture headpieces, evening wraps, hair accessories, jewelry, belts and bags. Joan Collins shops there (as well as other celebrities).
The KOKIN celebrity list of hat wearers is pretty impressive. “Barbra Streisand wears his creations in her garden and Bette Midler wears them for bad hair days,” said a KOKIN spokesperson.
Other notables wearing KOKIN hats are Julia Roberts, Hillary Duff, Michelle Pfeiffer, Cindy Lauper, Alicia Keys, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Tara Reid, Sophia Loren, Mischa Barton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cher, Queen Latifah, Beyonce, Bianca Jagger (and others).
You’ll also see KOKIN hats in magazines and newspapers. That’s because the country (and the fashion set) is craving something new and exciting to wear on their heads and torsos. Its one thing to eat the same restaurant and stay with the same partner for years on end, but when it comes to fashion something new and different is just what the doctor would order.
The KOKIN hats below are from Vogue Gioiello. Below are other photos from the collection.
KOKIN HATS in Vogue Gioiello Magazine
KOKIN HAT in Vogue Gioiello
Sophia Vergara (in a KOKIN hat) and David Beckham in Diet Pepsi Ad
(*Image Sourced From X17online)
Over washing your face can strip your skin of its natural oil barriers whether you have dry or oily prone skin. Consider using a cleanser over a soap base face wash. Face cleansers are gentle enough to use twice if necessary to remove your entire make at the end of the day.
The new buzz about (AHAs) Alpha-hydroxy acids is that they may help stimulate collagen production. Collagen is what keeps our skin looking plump. These amazing natural fruit acids lift away the top layer of dead skin cells, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If your are going to use Vitamin C skin care and want the best results the type of Vitamin C you use is extremely important. Research is showing that the L-ascorbic acid form as the most potent for fighting sun damage, correcting pigmentation, some inflammatory conditions, but best of all it can help in collagen production.
Fighting free radicals when it comes to having great looking skin is a must! This can be accomplished by using powerful antioxidants such as Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). This super antioxidant comes in both a capsule form and is in many topical skin care products. In my opinion using both couldn’t hurt. The more antioxidants your moisturizer has the better for your skin.
Check out Idebenone a cousin to CoQ10 this is really just getting around to mainstream media as a super-powerful antioxidant. When used topically for 6 weeks overall improvement in sun damaged skin was improved by 33%. (see recent Journal of Dermatology)
If you think you’ve seen a flying saucer lately, take heed, it was probably just a whimsical hat. No need to call in the paranormal experts or consult a psychic, it’s merely a new headwear trend. Put another way, today’s headwear is simply out of this world.
These outrageous headpieces (or hats) were originally the brainchild of British fashionistas (and royalty) but have filtered down to hatters on all continents. And, they continue to proliferate atop heads at royal weddings, horse races and polo matches.
The interesting thing about this far out head topper is that it seems to be catching on at all price points and for all occasions. From LA to Chicago women of all ages are trying out the concept of wearing a hat that could double as an architectural masterpiece. If you remember, Sarah Jessica Parker wore one of these outrageous headpieces (made by Philip Treacy) to the UK premier of the movie “Sex in the City.”
As a matter of fact, Mr. Treacy is now very unhappy that his formal creations (worn by the Queen of England and the Duchess of Cornwall) have been copied for a lesser price. “I started that gig many years ago, but now they have become three limp feathers and a tacky flower on the high street,” said master milliner Treacy.
Perhaps Treacy is the role model for these picture perfect confections, but his imprint is something to be proud of, not scorned. At the recent wedding of Zara Phillips (Prince William’s cousin) to Mike Tindall (captain of England’s rugby team) the hats were a real stand-out – literally. There were wild feather toppers, saucer styles, snake-like fascinators and a mesh hat that looks like a garden fence.
A recent article in the UK edition of Elle Magazine made reference to this wild and wacky headwear trend in an article called “When Bad Hats Happen to Good People.” Writer Emily Cronin said that royal wedding guest Chanelle McCoy’s hat (that was made by Irish milliner Mark T Burke) “it’s enormously unfortunate, that piece she has on her head. It’s just Las Vegas, serpentine. It’s just not attractive to me, but I’m not a big fan of snakes, either, and it’s so hard to tell what it looks like, but it’s just too costume-y…and the end looks like bones from feathers. The shape—let’s call it a sausage—it’s just unappealing.”
I assume that Mr. Burke would be quite distressed to learn that the hat he created for an elegant British lady (to wear to a royal wedding) was being called an unappealing snake. But I get the feeling Mr. Burke would take it all in stride. He was named Accessory Designer of the Year at the Irish Fashion Innovation Awards in 2010. And, his headpieces are popular at the Royal Ascot and the Irish Galway Races.
Although these funky hats and headpieces are more foreign on US soil, they are old hat for those in Britain and Ireland. But that doesn’t explain why Elle UK writer Emily Cronin said this about the phenomenon: “Why do bad hats make us uncomfortable? Sometimes, it’s because they age the wearer, while we fault other designs for highlighting features best skimmed over (TP-T’s blue torpedo, we’re looking at you). And then there are the millinery styles that we recognize less as hats and more as pretzels, toilet seats, octopuses… you get the idea.”
I don’t know about Ms. Cronin, but I just bought some toilet seats for my condo and they don’t look a thing like the hats seen at the royal wedding of Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall. They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but in this case, it’s in the eyes of the jaded.
It’s ok to use your creative impulses to make a hat that looks like a flower species – or get one at the store that towers over your head like a tree house. What matters is that you have a good time in it.
Kristy Gallacher via Dailymail.co.uk
Sophie Countess of Wessex via Dailymail.co.uk
THE LATEST BOOM IN HEADWEAR: SAUCER STYLES (Vogue.com )
The head is a curious place. It is where a lot of musing goes on, some thinking and a lot of decoration. Luckily for hat makers and hat lovers the head has become hot property to display a bit of your personality.
Hat wearers and designers are talking a lot about headwear as the true defining moment for one’s entire persona. It can lift your spirits, send others a message that you are secure (good posture is also key here) and make you look distinguished and sophisticated.
But there is a new trend on the horizon of head décor and it’s the scarf. Worn draped around the head (a la Jackie Kennedy) or twisted into the hair as a headband or as decoration down the side of your hair.
And for those who really want to look cool you can get an Etsis Hat that has scarf-like panels that hang from your hat and protect your face and neck from the sun. Let’s face it; the sun is like a lover – both alluring and dangerous at the same time. Who doesn’t love the sun with its inherent bright disposition and calming effect on the soul. But, the sun is also a dangerous companion that causes skin damage, skin cancer and unsightly dark spots. If you want to stay young, it’s imperative to keep your face and neck undercover.
But, the scarf without a hat attached should be worn later in the day (or at night) when the sun is not blazing hot (before 10am and after 2pm) or at night. If you remember Jackie O, she wore her scarves softly draped over her head and tied under her chin. Worn with large oval sun glasses she was the picture of chic (her endless clothing budget did not hurt her visual persona either).
It seems that fashion editors and those in the know are returning to these simple supple scarf ways. In this month’s Vogue.com the scarf is touted as the new celebrity headwear option. In an article called, “Heads Up: New Ways to Wear Summer Scarves” by Esther Adams, fashion stylist Marina Muñoz (a scarf lover) says that “They are perfect for bad hair days and look incredibly chic and very European.”
She is right. Just recently I went to an event where the air was more Siberian than Floridian (where I live). So, I took out my scarf and draped it over my head. I immediately felt a sense of chic mystically cross my torso. It also kept me warm despite the chill in the air.
Blogger and Vogue.com contributing photographer and Hanneli Mustaparta also had this to say about scarves: “Scarves take a look to a different place…I hadn’t worn my black Zara dress for a while because it seemed a little serious. But with the turban, it felt more relaxed. With the headscarf, everything felt so much fresher.”
She has a point. The scarf is easily transportable, comes in a myriad of colors and prints and can be a girl’s best friend. And, for style sense it allows you to create the persona and personality that you want to inherit if only for a few hours. But, if you want to dally around the day outside in the bright sunlight go to Etsishats.com and check out their panel tie sunhats that will protect you from the sun, but not keep you from your passion.
Image Sourced From Vogue.com
Trend Setters at this years’ Veuve Clicquot polo match. Photo: Phil Oh at vogue.com
Vika Gazinskaya Photo: Courtesy of Swinging-paris.com from vogue.com
We love hats – but like people you have to choose wisely. Of course, the wrong mate can cause more trouble than picking the wrong hat, but if you’re going to wear a hat it’s best to wear one that enhances your features and makes you look beautiful.
Picking the right hat is primarily about balance, proportion and making the most of your facial features. There are a few things to note, and one is your height. If you are tall you can wear a hat with more width, rather than additional height.
A petite frame, however, would be enhanced by a smaller angled, perched or cocktail hat. You can also wear a hat with a smaller shape and brim size, rather than a large hat that might overpower your facial features. But when it comes to sun protection all bets are off. Larger brims are a must in hot sunny climates regardless of your height, shape or size. But if you are petite, you will probably be more comfortable in a hat with a lower crown (top).
If you have a wide face it is best to stick to a hat with a narrow brim. A round face will look best complimented by a hat with a square shape, asymmetrical brim, or one worn at an angle.
We recently spoke with hatter to the stars, Mark Mejia. His shop in California, called Baron Hats is an outpost of eccentricity and style for regular folks, movie studios and celebrities. Mark was telling me this week that he makes “Annie Hall” style hats for Diane Keaton. When I asked him what style hat Keaton buys, Mark said fedoras. The great thing about getting a hat from Mejia is that he molds the hat to fit the face of the wearer.
But, you don’t need someone to make your hats for you (unless you have the time (and cash) to have one made). So we asked Mark how should a person decide which hat to choose from when shopping around.
This is what he had to say: “It’s a matter of getting a few and trying them on. There are so many factors — the brim width, the crown height and color. I have to look at the color of their eyes, the shape of their face and their features. All of these things matter when choosing the right hat. Skin tone and height even play a factor.
If you have a narrow face, you don’t want a telescopic crown. It will poorly elongate your features and act as a comical extension of your face. A fedora is an excellent solution because the brim gives a gentle rounding to narrow features.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you have a round face, you don’t want to buy anything squatty. A stingy brim with a flattop is recommended. If the shop truly knows their hats, request a pork-pie crown and they’ll give you exactly what you’re looking for.”
We also asked Mark about women wearing men’s hats, which has been happening for years. The concept of androgyny is one that has germinated for years and is still an important one. Women are wearing men’s tuxedos and men are wearing jewelry and make-up, so go figure!
Mark had this to say about women wearing men’s hats: “I think women look better than men in hats. A fedora on a woman is unbelievable, done correctly. They are very sexy.”
We also asked Mark about the return (and popularity) of hats for men and women. “Hats have been coming back for over a decade. Fifteen years ago, you were making too much of a statement if you wore a hat. People felt inhibited.”
Mark may be right, but this former state of inhibition seems to be a thing of the past. Women and men are now embracing their inner style and outer show of style.
Before ordering a hat online (or on the phone) make sure you know your hat size. To find your hat size, use a tape measure and place it right around your head. For the best looking and most comfortable fit, make sure that the bottom of the tape measure touches your eyebrows while resting straight around your head.
The rest of the equation is purely up to you. But make sure you enjoy wearing your new hat and that is goes with your sense of style and your wardrobe.
Charity Event for New York Cares – Fashionwiredaily.com
With Fall-Holiday fashion coming at us in full speed it is time to find out what to buy and what to pull out of the back of your closet. And before you do, take note: Lace and jeweled necklines are popping up in fashion houses faster than you can say Victorian.
The neckline has been the essence of power for the past few years. Scarves continue to be important whether twisted, draped or shaped from the neck downward. But the newest way to show off your neck is to cover it up with a wide elaborate necklace or jeweled lace inset on a dress or shirt.
Designers like Lanvin have taken Victorian lace and inserted it into the upper torso of a black velvet dress. This high collared neck-décor has been brewing for some time with high-top jewelry such as chokers, neck plates and high strung beads. Playing it close to the neck is quite modest yet it brings a sense of sensuality to the foreground.
Marc Jacobs, the fashion bad boy of Seventh Avenue, created a cut-out play on the neckline by using satin, lace and gold and twisting it into something more like a work of art than the bodice of a dress. Jacobs has the good sense to add color (red) to the top of his bejeweled dress against the black lace that it borders.
Years’ ago (in our grandparent’s day) women bought beautiful collars to add to basic dresses and sheaths. They were often made of handmade lace or satin with jewels, not unlike the ones we see today. Design houses like Bottega Veneta use intricate lace and add jewel trimming to dress up a black dress. This feminine mystique will continue to show up on sleeves and bodices giving fall clothing a peek-a-boo charm and allure.
The English style guru and retailer Topshop is also selling lace and jeweled collars that can do double duty to transform any outfit. People Magazine style issue recently featured a gold metal collar necklace that is more jewelry than collar, but achieves the same neckline attention.
To go with this demure neck-worthy fashion comes more sheer bodices, dresses and skirts. It seems modesty has been upended with outfits that don’t leave much to the imagination, but allow a certain amount of exhibitionism. I assume these outfits – from designers such as Christian Dior, Givenchy and Stella McCartney – are not to be worn to the office (unless that is you want a raise or a sugar daddy). But they are meant to be seen out at night or for special occasions where you can show off your natural assets.
You can say that opposites attract in fashion these days. The high feminine collar is demure and understated and leaves much to the imagination, whereas the sheer silky fabrics that drape the body leave little to the imagination and a lot to the visual sensation of bare view. That’s the beauty of fashion; it allows its followers to chose their own path, their own style and enjoy it all under or over the radar screen.
There’s an old adage that says you can’t know where you’re going until you know where you’ve been. Such is the case for fashion as well.
And where we’ve been is the celebrated 70’s. That pure decade of debauchery and debutantes who made it all seem fun to dress up and inhale the exhilaration of discos and European jaunts. There were no airport pat downs and no hand held devices to suck the time right out of you.
The 70’s was a simple time. Women did not obsess about careers or having babies at 50 – they just wanted freedom and fun. And, it was fun if you wore the latest styles that designers had to offer. Because if you were around back then you will remember that designers ruled. They told women how to dress and women of all ages acquiesced.
Perhaps that is the reason that designers like Gucci, Tory Burch, Ralph Lauren, YSL and Tommy Hilfiger are bringing back the 70’s in all its glory. Although Ms. Burch has fond memories of the way we were, her insights are told from the view of someone who was not there (in the 70’s).
“People in the ’70s seemed a little more care-free, a little less complicated,” said the A-list designer Tory Burch. Ms. Burch is right, it was far less complicated in the 70’s, especially if you were a woman. There were no jobs (other than as secretaries, social workers or teachers), medical and law schools looked at woman as if they were dust mite to be swept aside, and there was no obsession with texting and emails, tweeting and facebook. (You could say those days were the social Stone Age).
Women did, however, obsess about getting the perfect man (how else would they support themselves) and procuring the perfect size 6 figure. Yes, the days were simple and the nights alluring (Studio 54 was “the” place to be) and the fashion was fun and serious at the same time.
And, to a degree Ms. Burch, who has created a velvet smoking jacket (reminiscent of her mom’s) has a point. “The ’70s were years when women were coming into their own. They were a little freer in the way they dressed and lived their lives. I wanted to celebrate that.”
Not only is Burch celebrating women of times past, but so are other great fashion names. “Frida Giannini of Gucci, Stefano Pilati of Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Jacobs, Massimiliano Giornetti of Ferragamo and Michael Kors were but a handful of designers to invoke the era of floppy-bow dresses, chubby furs and slouchy hats, flared pants and slithery maxi-skirts, intent, it seemed, on returning to a period of originality and unfettered hedonism,” said New York Times fashion writer Ruth LaFerla.
Other 70’s fashion icons were Jackie Kennedy (Jackie O), Bianca Jagger, the Berenson sisters, Julie Christie, Faye Dunaway and Anjelica Huston, who according to LaFerla were equal parts glamorous and effortless. “The list goes on of women who defined what it was to be chic, whether they were photographed on the street or headed to Studio 54.”
What this fashion theme seems to boil down to are jumpsuits, pantsuits (they were quite a thrill back then) shirtwaist dresses in fluid fabrics, tailored jackes and trousers, high rise trousers (Hepburn style), feminine blouses with bows, capes, menswear plaids, faux fur jackets and shearling coats with style.
Although we cannot bring back those innocent days of the 70’s we can dream about them. And what better way to do that then to indulge in fabulous fashions that make women look glorious in all their shine and sheen. Because now – in the 21st century – we actually have somewhere to go!
All photos are from newyorkmagazine.com
Gucci Fall 2011 (Image Sourced From New York Magazine)
Gucci Fall 2011 (Image Sourced From New York Magazine)
YSL Fall 2011 (Image Sourced From New York Magazine)
Love may make the world go around, but its color that makes it swift and sizzling. Everyone is talking about color, more specifically color-blocking – those huge blocks of color patched together as one fashion statement.
It’s been a while since we saw colorful hues sewn together as one fashion entity. As a matter of fact, it was in 1965 that Yves Saint Laurent introduced the most famous color-blocked frock known as “The Mondrian Dress.” This cubist shift (patterned after the Dutch painter Mondrian) was made up of red, yellow and white blocks sewn together with bold strips of black. Worn with white “go-go” boots, this dress was the most fashionable look in the 60’s.
Although color-blocking has been on hold for a while it is rife for a return. And designers must know this fact because some of the biggest names in fashion have rustled up enough color to make dresses out of rainbows. Gucci took color and paired it with unlikely jewel tone brights, Narciso Rodriquez took color-blocking to another level with red, white and blue pants suits and dresses. Even hot haute designer Stacey Bendet (designer for Alice + Olivia) created dresses drenched in color with brightly blocked hues for cruise 2012.
It seems that celebrities and fashionistas have taken this colorful message to new heights by putting contrasting bright separates together. Rihanna (who has bright orange hair) recently wore a blazing burgandy knit top with neon orange pants and model Iman wore a yellow slim skirt with an aqua blouse. There’s also a lot of orange, purple, red and green worn together as if it were a holiday shopping blitz (Michelle Obama even paired royal blue with purple). If you are not sure what hues go together try matching colors that are opposites on the color wheel.
Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, had this to say about color: “Consumers look to spring for renewed energy, optimism and the promise of a brighter day. They have learned how color can help alter a mood and provide the vitality and enthusiasm that enables them to experiment with new looks and color combinations.”
The new hot colors, according to Eiseman are tangerine, purple, rosy red, maritime blue, blue-green, yellow-green, lilac, beige and gray. We like to think that orange is a big hitter, as well as all shades of blue and aqua.
What’s interesting is that designers have their own way of combining colors to define their signature style. Marc by Marc Jacobs is adding color blocks to soft shapeless silk dresses and BCBG by Max Azria has taken the silk caftan to endless heights with flowing color-blocked hues of blue, purple, yellow and white. Hipster designers at Alice + Olivia are on the same page as Mondrian with a color-blocked shift in orange, fuschia and purple.
The most seductive of fashion colorists is Gucci, who has taken bright colors such as sizzling orange and pink and blue and green and made tight short dresses and pant outfits. It is Gucci who has the pulse on fashion in magnificent soft silks with plunging necklines (don’t expect to see this line at H&M or Target) and twisted necklines.
The great thing about color-blocking is that it makes any shape hat look dazzling. Many designers are pairing large floppy hats with their color-blocked message and others (like Rachel Comey) have topped their bright color scheme off with a high top bucket hats. If you chose to be shaded from the midday sun make sure you wear your ETSIS Hat in any color – because when it comes to style fashion can often be color blind.
If you have Rosacea then you know it’s a rather insidious challenger to the well being of your skin. The reason is because Rosacea manifests differentlyin each person and requires an in-depth search for what aggravates it and what calms it down.
The clinical definition of Rosacea is a skin condition marked by reddish pink patches, acne-like pimples or inflamed blood vessels (that often resemble spider veins) on the face.
The bad news is that this condition has no known cure, but the good news is that Rosacea is treatable. To control symptoms of Rosacea I recommend avoiding alcoholic beverages, especially red wine and beer, along with hot drinks like coffee, hot chocolate and hot cider,” said Dr. Amy Forman Taub, Medical Director of Advanced Dermatology in Chicago and Assistant Clinical Professor, Northwestern University Medical School, Department of Dermatology.
According to Dr. Forman Taub the increase of heat from these liquids are detrimental to Rosacea patients. The doctor also said that foods such as yogurt, citrus fruits, bananas, spinach, avocado, vinegar, soy sauce and spicy food can also contribute to flair-ups of Rosacea.
This is not to say that you can¹t eat any of these foods, but you have to experiment to see which ones you can tolerate (without aggravating your Rosacea). The signs and symptoms of Rosacea vary substantially from one patient to another and treatment must be tailored for each individual.
There may be a varying degree of severity (and treatment) for Rosacea, but there is one constant. And that is that the Sun and Wind are definitely harmful to people with Rosacea. The effects of the sun on Rosacea are two fold; it can cause broken blood vessels associated with Rosacea (also DNA damage and wrinkles) but it is also can trigger a dilation of blood vessels
resulting in flushing and redness,” said Dr. Glenn Kolinsky, Board Certified Dermatologist in Red Bank, New Jersey.
When we asked Dr. Neal Schultz, a New York City dermatologist (and creator of dermtv.com) about the sun’s role in irritating Rosacea he was adamant that Rosacea patients should use a good sun sunscreen (and moisturizer) with an SPF of 15 to 30. He also made the point that most Rosacea patients have oily sensitive skin that requires a gentle sunscreen that is oil-free and chemical free.
That sounds like a tall order, but Dr. Schultz, who has a very impressive resume (and sees 10,000 patients a year), has made it a priority to treat disorders such as Rosacea with products that will enhance the skin yet keep it safe from the elements that cause its demise. “People with Rosacea burn easily in the sun and need to make sure they get a sunscreen with fewer chemical elements but the right ingredients.”
That is why he has created an oil free sunscreen with micronized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that is lightweight and gives instant protection by reflecting the damaging rays of the sun away from your skin (you don¹t have to wait 30 minutes to be fully protected). This product also absorbs excess facial oil with the micronized particles. If you want to check out (or
order) any of his products for sensitive skin or Rosacea, go to www.beautyRx.com. Dr. Schultz also wrote a book called, “It’s Not Just About Wrinkles: A Park Avenue Dermatologist’s Program for Beautiful Skin in Just Four Minutes a Day.”
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Dr. Schultz also recommends that people with Rosacea protect themselves from the sun (and the wind) with a large brimmed hat. Even if you think the sun is not overhead – or it’s a cloudy day – you can still receive the damaging rays of the sun.
Keep in mind that when doing outdoor activities in the sand, water or snow, the reflection from these surfaces triples the intensity of your UVA/UVB exposure. That is why wearing an ETSIS Hat with large brim and SunEscape Protection Panels is the safest way to protect yourself from environmental conditions that are damaging to your skin.
Also, when you keep yourself protected from direct sun exposure, reflective exposure and harsh winds you are less likely to see flair ups of your Rosacea. Let an ETSIS Hat become part of your daily skincare routine. That’s what ETSIS had in mind when they created this attractive collection of stylish hats – to make your life easier and guarantee that your skin stays youthful and beautiful.
ETSIS Hats & Apparel is elated to be apart of their first ISPA Conference and Expo at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The ISPA Conference & Expo is the largest ISPA event of the year for spa professionals. With more than a 20-year history, the expectation of Conference attendees is to provide spa owners, directors, managers and suppliers with cutting edge tips on where the industry is headed and how to ensure that business is sustainable.
In addition, the ISPA Expo brings together the leading suppliers in the industry to network with spa decision makers.
ISPA hopes to see you Nov. 7 – 9, 2011 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, Nev., USA. More information is available on the 2011 Conference & Expo web site.
Please come and check out ETSIS at the Dorfman Pacific booth #833, 835
Have you ever noticed that sun precaution is only up for discussion during the spring and summer months? As soon as fall/winter is on its way, most of us don’t even think about protecting our skin from the sun. We generally turn our attention to the best chapstick for our lips, the best body moisturizer for our body, but somehow we forget that our face and neck areas get an extreme amount of sun exposure.
FACT: Cold temperatures do not decrease the HARMFUL UVA/UVB rays from wrecking havoc on your skin; ESPECIALLY YOUR FACE and NECK!
UVA=AGING and UVB=BURNING and when you combine the two, no matter what time of year it is, the end results are the same, pretty intense sun damage. Once again leaving us vulnerable to fine lines, brown spots, loss of elastin and collagen, but most of all skin cancer. When all this is cumulative over several years OF NO WINTER SUN PROTECTION it leaves your skin not so attractive. Most of all you probably look older then you really are.
FACT: Winter clothes and gloves/mittens cover 90%; but we forget that our faces are really vulnerable in the winter when driving in the car, walking the dog, or even jogging on a brisk fall day. The winter sun is strong and leaves its UVA/UVB footprints on your skin.
How many of you participate in winter sport activities or still continue to take that outdoor jog on a chilly winters day? Or maybe you enjoy going for a walk when the snow has fallen for the first time?
FACT: The reflection off surfaces such as snow is similar to the reflection off water and sand during the summer months. UVA/UVB RAYS reflecting from the snow are 3 times as strong and can really give you just as bad sunburn in the winter as from the water or sand in the summer months.
Anyone who is a skier has seen a friend or two with pretty bad cold, wind/ sunburn on their face-not very attractive. Try the ETSIS SportEscape Hat with SunEscape Protection panels under your ski helmet and you will be good for the day.
FACT: UVA AND UVB RAYS ARE PRESENT 365 DAYS A YEAR, FALL, WINTER, SPRING, AND SUMMER. Even on a cloudy day the UVA (the aging rays) will damage your skin.
These winter sunburns truly increase the aging process of your skin. Really take a moment and compare an outdoor sport enthusiast skin (who has no need for additional protection) and compare them to someone that really does protect their skin when wearing an ETSIS Hat.
FACT: Women that truly protect their face and neck areas from the sun usually can look up to ten years younger then their friends that do nothing for protection.
SOLUTION: For me it is all about the ETSIS Hat when it comes to women’s sun protection. No matter what time of year it is I never leave my house without wearing one of my favorite ETSIS Hats.
Yes, I do believe in sunscreens up to a point but seriously after an hour most of them start to break down or you need to reapply. Seriously are you really going to stop half way down the ski slope and reapply your sunscreen-I doubt it. The ETSIS Hat gives you round the clock sun protection. We call it the best ANTI AGING Tool a women can have in her arsenal of skin care products.
Much Aloha, Devra
PS-I lived in Colorado for 25 years and I now have lived in Honolulu for the past 12, so I have experienced both types of climates and both types of winter/summer sun exposure. I will be turning 57 soon and still get compliments on my skin.
Gosh I am just loving the new faux-fur vest trend. After browsing through the most recent issue of Harper’s Bazaar (with my girl Christina Hendricks on the cover), I have a new mission the next time I go shopping: to find a fabulous faux-fur vest that can compliment any outfit. The faux-fur vest trend actually is making me realize the cyclical nature of fashion trends, for it was just 5 years ago that I had purchased a faux-fur vest from Forever 21.
I like the ability to wear the fur vest with any outfit, from casual to elegant, depending on the nature of the faux-fur. Higher-end faux-fur creations, such as Chanel’s fall line, of course look to be practically real and can compliment even a red carpet look. For those of us in a slight lower financial bracket, I say our best bet would be Forever 21. After browsing Neiman’s faux-fur selections, I have decided that a longer shag of fur in a light cream, to dark grey color would be ideal to compliment the fall items in my wardrobe. After browsing the internet, I actually stumbled upon a great faux-fur vest in ash black from Nordstrom.com ($64.90)!
Once I find my ideal faux-fur vest I am visualizing pairing it with a simple full-shirt and leggings outfit, or possibly a full-length dress. To me the possibilities seem endless, and a fur vest is sure to make a statement.
I am hoping that down the line ETSIS will possibly have some faux-fur accents in their hat line and even possibly doing some faux-fur panels for winter! Now wouldn’t that be something!
Recently I just returned from our first I-Spa Conference and Expo-2011 show where ETSIS Hats & Apparel were featured as the newest fashionable sun precaution hats for women. It is true about Vegas everything is over the top including this show. What was even more exciting for us, we were there with other skin care leaders and industry trendsetters. The three days were filled with everything you would need to move your business forward from finance and retail to marketing and social media. This sold out event was the best place to see the newest product launches and trends for the skin care industry-2011/ 2012.
Over 150 skin care industry experts shared their products such as Life Line a new stem cell-skin care product sure to impress and change the way we will look at skin care in the future. Sonoma Lavender filled the air with their intoxicating lavender scent all three days. ILLUME Candles-impressed us with their scented candles and oils (we brought some of those back to Hawaii. Wrap Up by VP offered luxury robes to die for-every spa should offer these. Sonya Darker introduced us to her high –end skin care products. The other skin care company that impressed us was Swiss Skin Repair, Inc. Created by a team of scientist from Switzerland, France and the US created revolutionary formulas with natural ingredients from all over the world. One of my favorites (I use this myself) is Eminence one of the true organic skincare companies and greenest company in the industry to date; they actually grow and produce organically everything in their product line. (coconut milk cleanser-saved my skin in Vegas)
Other companies that offer some of the latest in advanced aesthetic technologies were also at this years Spa convention. Such as Edge Systems that offer their premier system The HydraFacial skin solution. Generally offered in your upper end spas or what is sometimes referred to as a Medi-Spa, this has been getting lots of great reviews from celebrity types such as Madonna. Once a qualified esthetician has been thoroughly trained this amazing piece of equipment based on hydradermabrasion system is ready for your customers to experience.
If you ever have the chance to tag along with a friend to attend one of these I-spa shows don’t hesitate just go. It is an opportunity to see all the latest products that the pros get to see first. Ultimately all of this is meant to be for you the end consumer the retail customer. Free samples are given away and on the last day of the show you can actually buy tons of great products at a discount. Keep in mind you have to go with a professional on the invite in order to gain access these types of specialty show are not open to the public.
Well it is day two of the I- Spa (believe)-2011 expo/conference and I am very excited about attending some of the seminars and hearing motivational guest speakers. This is unlike other shows I attend, such as MAGIC where I have no time to even think about attending any seminars. Magic is crazy busy! A Spa show is a little more relaxed due to the nature of the business. In fact everything smells aroma-therapeutic like you are in one giant spa house. The show doesn’t start till 10:30-11:30am on most days so that you can have time to experience all the perks and network with fellow attendees. Other seminars are offered in the afternoons as well from 3:30-5:30pm so it was easy to rotate our schedules and take it all in.
Seminars were offered for the professional spa owners from motivational speakers such as Nancy Griffin President of Spa Smart and Rianna Riego Principle of Global Spa Vantage both spoke on social media and personal networking to increase your presence in the market. Faith Popcorn has always inspired me with her marketing and branding skills but this time she was speaking about “How Trends are affecting Consumer Lifestyle. This was so up our alley since ETSIS Hats is setting a new trend for women’s sun precaution hats. With our paten pending SunEscape Protection Panels we offer women the choice to protect themselves stylishly from the sun. Consumers and especially women are constantly looking for companies that they can connect to on a emotional level-empathy to be exact; Ms. Popcorn pointed out. Trend guru Faith Popcorn says given the current economic climate, marketers should be going all out to connect their brand to hard-up consumers. But they’re not, because they don’t have empathy.
Other motivational speakers that enlightened our morning was Porter Gale former Vice President of Marketing, Virgin America. This session included tips for the newest or established brand on topics including-first time Twitter use to the importance of leveraging partnerships to increase buzz and earned media. We had to divide and conquer in order to take in all of these wonderful resources, seminars, and activities.
The one experience we did not miss was going to the many different Relaxation Areas that were set up specifically for the ISPA attendees. This is where everyone went to get away from the hustle and bustle of the conference and show to indulge in a complimentary treatment. Aveda offered a 45 min wellness session of guided meditation, mind-full movement exercises and breathing techniques that really did help reenergize ones body and mind. These show can be very overwhelming, a lot to take in , in three days. Since we live in Hawaii we want to see and gain as much knowledge as we can to take home and share with all our spa buddies. CLARINS was the place I visited for what they call the TRI-Active Facial, hand, foot, and scalp massage, which helped replenish my energy. Other great companies that were part of this amazing relaxation area were Germaine de Capuccini S.A., Laboratorie Dr. Renaud, skin authority, SOTHYS OF Paris.
Jennifer and I truly unwound at the end of the day by visiting the BATHHOUSE at the Mandalay Bay Hotel. With a full range of services to offer from massage to nails-this truly was an escape from it all. With their beautiful grey/black stonewall interiors and several spa/tubs to choose from one would never think you are in the bright lights and glitz of Las Vegas. We hit the steam room filled with eucalyptus and then off to the tubs. We knew to order room service in advance for dinner we would be wiped after this long day. We were excited about day three of the show and knew we had made the right choice to be a part of this entire ISPA experience-2011.
It is Day three of the ISPA Expo/Conference-2011 and as we expected the comments and reviews for our ETSIS Hat were over the top and continued till the last hour of the show. ETSIS Hats & Apparel were featured as the newest fashionable sun precaution trend for women’s hats. It is true about Vegas, WHAT HAPPENS IN Vegas stays in Vegas, but at this show they want you to take all the samples and products home with you! The more samples we try the more we spread the word about what we like and love from this show. A lucky few did receive some of our ETSIS Hats and one lady convinced us that she could not leave the show unless she had “Marsha” our ever so popular POP for retail, Spas, or professional medical offices. Check out Marsha, she is all over our web.
At most shows we have to share the spotlight with other hat competitors (like 50) but this time only Dorfman Pacific’s-Scala and ETSIS hat lines were being featured exclusively. Known for their excellent ratings for sun protection, Scala and ETSIS Hats teamed up for this show and showed the best fashion forward designs for UPF 50+ ratings for 2012 for women’s sun precaution hats. The ETSIS hat features the snap in SunEscape Protection panels that really covers your face and neck areas for maximum sun protection when “Escaping The Sun In Style”. People started touted it to be a great anti-aging tool to add to your arsenal.
Each day more and more people came by our booth wanting to see the ETSIS Hat and hearing about it from others. One of the ladies with New Beauty Inc., came by our booth to see the hat that everyone was buzzing about. We got to demo for her why the ETSIS Hat truly deserves the attention in the spa and skin care industry. Why wouldn’t you add an ETSIS Hat to your daily skin care routine? We explained to her that if you want great results from your products and skin care then cover up from the sun. She encouraged us to send a sample ETSIS Hat to the head beauty editor Elise Minton…….we are keeping out fingers crossed on this one! Wouldn’t it be exciting to be featured in one of our favorite beauty magazines of all time New Beauty Inc.!
Just got my new Fall –Winter Volume 7 in the mail when I arrived home after the show; along with my newest TEST TUBE KIT from New Beauty Inc.
Although the ISPA Expo was great the old saying holds true “There Is No Place Like Home!” and team ETSIS is happy to be home
Much Aloha to all of those we met at this year’s ISPA Expo and looking forward to next year 2012!
The one article that caught my eye in the most recent issue of New Beauty magazine was “The New Breed Of Super Charged Lasers”. Here is the scoop from N.B. if you have been practicing good daily skin care, but are still not seeing the desired effects you would like then it might be time to step up your game and look at the new laser options on the market today. Over the past 7 years I have done IPL, Fraxel, and Thermage, so I was very interested to see what has been improved upon and if the results I got were in alignment with what the article was reporting to be “new and improved.” I also believe in a strong at home maintenance routine and this recent article did not let me down and had suggestions for what to use at home for preventative as well as maintenance after a super charged laser treatment. I have decided to break this down into a series of blogs over the next few weeks. There is al lot of territory to cover— after all our skin is our largest organ!
A couple basic things to know about lasers… Type A is Ablative Laser -very effective, one treatment, and can be used on the entire face. This type of laser treatment is generally accompanied with some kind of wound to the skin, produces swelling, and can cause some oozing and scabbing. It can resemble a really bad sunburn, so it can look a little scary initially. They are considered aggressive in nature but can be extremely effective, if your skin warrants this type of treatment. Therefore Ablative are more expensive, longer recovery time, and there is a potential for pigment changes in your skin. These treatments can take 2-3 weeks total recovery time so you might need to take time off from work. Some results are truly not seen for 3-6 months. Keep in mind that the older we are the slower are skin cells turn over.
Type B is called Non-Ablative Lasers. With these lasers there is no direct damage done to the skin and less potential for pigment damage. They generally are less expensive and not as aggressive and instead of just one visit to the DR’s it can take 3-6 visits depending on your goals when it comes to your skincare. These treatments generally treat more superficial problems and are less expensive per visit, but don’t be fooled it still adds up. 3-6 @ $300-$500 a pop can add up to $900-$3,000.00 depending on your time and the results you desire.
One thing that I always recommend to friends is to visit at least two Drs that have been referred too you (Top Beauty Experts-volume -7 New Beauty Magazine). Don’t be shy and ask lots of questions, this is your face for goodness sakes! I once sent a friend to my favorite Doctor and she did not get the same results that I did from a FRAXEL treatment and was upset with the Dr. Keep in mind everyone’s pigmentation and family ethnicity can play a big part in how one responds to a laser treatment so really discuss your skin and family background with your Doctor. The darker the skin the more likely you are to have light or dark pigmentation left over. I have never totally been able to get rid of my brown spots. Maybe some of these new lasers might be the answer???
The most important thing to keep in mind after any laser treatment is SUN PROTECTION! This is of the up most importance if you want to see great long lasting results! As I was reading about all these different types of laser treatments the one thing discussed is your skin “will be more sensitive to the sun and it is best to avoid direct sun exposure if at all possible”. Most women don’t realize that most of the sun they receive on their face is when they are driving in the car. Covering up with sunscreen is not always an option and maintenance of your skin is far easier and less expensive then reversing all the damage one has done from spending too much time in the sun. Did you know that the UVA Rays are the aging rays and are directly responsible for the destruction of your collagen and or elastin? Why would you spend all this time and money to improve your skin and help promote new production of elastin and collagen if you are going to not protect it from the number one aging factor, UVA rays? Many people laughed at how neurotic I was about sun precaution but when I look in the mirror and get compliments on my skin at the age of 57 I am glad I did.
*If you are currently using any type of Retinoid and or retinol products and are considering any laser treatment I would consider not using for at least 7-10 days prior to treatment.
Check out the ETSIS Hat that I originally designed for local girlfriends and myself to protect our skin after any Super Charged Laser Treatment. Living in Hawaii we have learned about the accelerated aging effects the sun has on our skin. Once you spend the time and money on expensive treatments you really will want to protect your new skin from the UVA/UVB rays!
You never should leave your house without your ETSIS Hat, sunglasses, driving gloves, and of course a sun protective driving shirt. I actually just keep everything in my car so I never have an excuse not to protect the skin I have worked so hard to maintain.
In the most recent issue of New Beauty there was a section on super charged lasers. One laser (that I myself have tried and blogged about before) is the IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy treatment, referred to as a Non-Ablative laser treatment (see previous blog on ablative and non-ablative lasers). What it does do is bring brown spots to the surface and break up the pigmentation, making them much lighter in appearance or disappearing all together. Helping with some fine lines and skin texture and in the past has helped my skin look brighter as well. Just my personal opinion I thought it helped tighten my skin also.
My Experience: My sun damage started to become overly visible in the form of brown spots, age spots, and even some of my Melasma returned, which the doctor told me was hormonal, as well as sun induced. It was becoming more difficult to cover up with makeup so about seven years ago I had my first IPL treatment. I thought my results were amazing but they did not last long. I also thought my sunscreen would protect me, but I found myself right back at the Doctor’s office for yet another IPL treatment nine months later. After spending another $600 I became obsessed with protecting my skin from the sun and learning all I could about its effects on my face and anti-aging.
The newer IPL laser machines take four to six treatments over a series of 3-4 months, unlike my first IPL treatment at a higher level of intensity that only required one treatment. I did read that some people might get some scabbing, but honestly I have never had that happen to me. Doctors now are going for lower transmittal beam and more treatments to help avoid the chance of hyper-pigmentation or any type of scabbing. Prior to having your IPL, like any laser treatment, make sure you stop using any Retinoid or retinol products at least 7-10 days prior to your appointment.
What to Expect: They do put a topical anesthetic (I take some Ibuprofen) because for me the laser feels like a rubber band snapping (be prepared for a little ouch time depending on your threshold for pain). You look like you have a sunburn initially which will fade within the first 48 hours. Then it takes about 7-10 days for the brown spots to break apart and fade. My face looked like one big freckle before the pigmentation finally started to fade.
During/After Skin Care: After your treatment be very gentle with your skin care routine and avoid the sun at all cost!!! Do not exfoliate; do not use your Clarisonic, or a washcloth. I highly recommend a gentle cleanser such as Eminence Coconut Milk Cleanser. Luke warm water not hot! Moisturize like crazy.
My Personal Follow Through: Over the next couple of years I had another IPL treatment and reached as good as results that the doctor and I thought I could achieve. Keep in mind I only did my IPL treatment once a year since the Doctor used a higher intensity laser) The rest was up to me now to practice good skincare and to stay out of the sun. I always cover my face now with an ETSIS Hat, sunglasses, long sleeve shirt and even gloves especially when driving. It is the left side of your face from driving that gets the most damage. Compare for yourself.
What I am Using Today to Maintain My Skin: In the most recent issue of New Beauty and written by Elise Minton she not only shared all the updates about professional laser treatments, but took it one step further and gave us the latest on what to use at home for excellent maintenance. N.B. Volume-7 pages 120-130.
One item in particular Elise (Senior Beauty Editor) recommended is using a red LED light. I started using the Tanda about four months ago after my last IPL treatment. I use the Tanda brand and love the results I have received with faithful use. You can watch my You Tube video “How To Use the Tanda Skincare Light”. The Tanda has definitely kept fine line at bay and my skin bright. I just celebrated my 57th birthday with some dear friends. The next day a friend called and asked if I had done some new treatment or had done a peel. I told her not recently, but I do wear my ETSIS hat whenever UV rays can potentially touch my face. I AVOID THE SUN LADIES AND REALLY FOLLOW A GOOD SKIN CARE ROUTINE. I get facials every two weeks, never go to bed with makeup on, rotate my products, and never drive in the car with out my ETIS Hat glasses, driving gloves, and a shirt. Remember ladies the sun is out 365 days a year! It doesn’t matter where you live, fall, winter, spring and summer you need to cover up if you want long lasting results from your skin care products and or treatments.
Is your tattoo becoming taboo? We all have tried different trends at some point in our life. Maybe you cut your hair into a short bob cut or tried an asymmetrical cut. It might have been as simple as a fashion trend such as the mini dress, which is defiantly still around, but not age appropriate for some of us to still be wearing… So fast forward a few decades and tattoos are not just reserved for sailors anymore, but have gone more main -stream as a trend for body art. My point being is that at some point in time a trend fades or we tire of it. It is easy to grow out your hair from a radical cut or to stop wearing mini dresses when no longer appropriate; there is no pain involved or cost when you give up these trends. Unfortunately if you have tired of your tattoos then lasers are your only option. This can be a lengthy process as well as a costly one so if you currently don’t have any tattoos you might want to rethink prior to having one permanently inked on your skin.
In the most recent issue of New Beauty they reviewed The Alexandrite laser (newest on the market). This laser breaks-up pigment but can take getting 8-20 treatments to remove a tattoo. This is a timely process and not a pain free one either. The age of your tattoo plays a major factor and so do the colors of ink that you choose. The older the tattoo and the deeper the colors (such as midnight blues and blacks) the harder it is to remove. Orange, yellow, and Red tones seem to fade out first. After reading the article in NB it was to my understanding that complete removal of a tattoo is nearly impossible and that you could always have a faint marking or discoloration in the area treated.
Keep in mind that during this process it is also extremely important to protect your skin from sun exposure. Make sure you wear protective clothing; you don’t want to get pigmentation marks from the sun when you’re trying to fade these areas. Even though I promote the use of sunscreens, nothing is better then sun protective clothing.
I have to say I do not have any tattoos so I cannot speak from any authority or experience with results on tattoo removal, but just thought I would inform some of my blogging followers that might have tattoos and are thinking about getting rid of them. Or you might want to reconsider if you even want to get a tattoo.
I would like to know if anyone has had their tattoo removed by The Alexandrite laser and if you were you pleased with the results?
The last thing many cancer patients want to do during treatment is exercise. Fatigue, sickness and depression often keep cancer patients in bed or on the couch, but a growing body of research suggests that exercise can actually help with these symptoms and side effects of treatment.
Exercise has been proven to reduce extreme fatigue, help lessen the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, such as nausea and weakness, and keep the spirits higher, especially in patients with rare cancers such as mesothelioma. Exercise stimulates the immune system and can help prevent common colds and secondary infections. Additionally, exercise for cancer patients has been shown to lead to increased survival rates and better long-term health. A study by the Macmillan Cancer Support looked at data from 60 research studies and interviewed 400 health professions and found that 150 minutes of exercise a week can reduce the chances of certain cancers from recurring by up to 40 percent.
Exercising during treatment doesn’t have to be strenuous. A daily walk, time in the garden, and taking a swim all counts as exercise. Here are some tips on exercising safely during cancer treatment:
Talk to Your Doctor
Work with your doctor to find an exercise plan that works for you. Depending on your type of cancer, your previous endurance level and where you are in treatment, your exercise may be as low-key as daily yoga or it may involve a light jog. Finding a plan that leaves you refreshed and stronger is the goal; it’s important to not overdo it.
Start Slowly
Even if you were in top shape before your cancer treatments, it’s best to ease yourself into an exercise routine. Exercise for short periods several times a day to start; stop when you’re feeling too tired to continue. Work your way up to longer periods of exercise fewer times a day. Never continue when your body tells you it’s time to stop. Exercise is beneficial, but too much can leave you weak and fatigued.
Work Out at Home
Especially if your cancer or treatment puts you at risk for infection; limit your exercise time at the gym. Instead, go for walks when the weather is nice and engage in strengthening activities at home, such as lifting weights and yoga. If you do go to the gym, take antibacterial wipes with you and wipe down equipment before you use it.
More and more hospitals and private gyms are offering exercise classes that cater to cancer patients and those in recovery. Check with your doctor and call around to local clubs to see if there are any of these classes in your area. The more you exercise, the better you will feel and the better chance you will have at recovery.
When I was recently in Vegas at the ISPA show I got to experience first hand what dry winter skin was all about and just how serious it can be. My face completely freaked out, not just from the cold air but also from having to turn the furnace on in my room, and the chemicals they add to the water at the hotel certainly didn’t help. Within 24 hours of being in the reality of winter weather my skin had red dry blotches, my age spots for some reason popped out, and none of my skincare products were helping-in fact they just seem to aggravate my skin even more.
When we are transitioning from summer to winter we need to reclaim our soft moisturized skin. Your skin is exposed to the elements during the summer from UV ray exposure, salt water, or the chlorine from the pools, all contributing to rougher and leathery skin. Our skin naturally thickens to act as a protector from these elements, but we have all see those overly tanned people with wrinkled leathery skin.
What factors contribute to winter dry skin was the question I asked the skin care experts at the ISPA show. Since I have lived in Hawaii the past 12 years I had not visited the mainland in the winter months for several years so this blast of harsh cold temperatures in Vegas really played havoc on my skin.
Contributors to Dry Skin
Cold temperatures
Low humidity
Harsh winds
UVA/UVB rays
Using too hot of water when showering or washing hands and face
Furnace temperatures- the dry air depletes the moisture from your skin.
Treated water (this reeked havoc on my skin)
Favorite Dry Skin Solutions
Drink plenty of water! at least 8-10 cups a day. Too much hot coffee in the winter isn’t good for your skin either. Coffee actually dehydrates you. Just because you drink water does not mean that the outer layers of your skin will be hydrated. This comes from moisturizing lotions. It is just healthy to drink plenty of water on a daily basis.
Do not take hot hot showers, try lukewarm if at all possible or if you can’t give this up, then at least limit the length of shower time.
Exfoliating in the shower daily is vital. As we age our skin cells turn over at a slower rate and if not exfoliated properly can lead to dry, scaly, ashen looking skin. I use an exfoliating cloth I get at the drugstore. It is just perfect for light use on a daily basis. I use a body wash in the winter such as DHC Imperial Green Tea Shower Gel. Or look for hydrating glycerin soaps.
Try to put your moisturizers on with in 3 minutes after showering:
Your skin is at its optimum for absorbing your body lotion and trapping the moisture. Remember what works on your face is not necessarily good for your body. For really dry winter skin I like Eucerin Dry Skin Therapy or Kiehl’s Imperial Body Balm.
If your feet are prone to dry and cracking a good trick is to wear a good pair of socks to bed at night with a good foot cream such as Kerasal Professional Exfoliating Moisturizing Foot Ointment. If you prefer a more organic cure, then use left over avocado, the rich oils really go to work on cracked heels. Ok a little messy but effective.
When it comes to your face being dry in the winter then I would avoid harsh peels, masks, and alcohol based toners or astringents,
All of these can strip vital oils from your skin. Look for mask such as Kate Somerville-Quench Hydrating Mask. I love DHC Revitalizing Moisture Strips for the eyes. They also have a great Olive leaf alcohol-free toner, fortified with serine, and it doesn’t strip your skin.
Sun Pre-caution is a big one when it comes to winter skin care. The sun’s UV rays are just as damaging in the winter as in the summer. We lather on the sunscreen and then our pores get clogged. You also want your sunscreen to protect you, but you also want it to help hydrate. Look for moisturizers that include an SPF of 20-30. For me personally in the winter as in the summer, I always wear sunglasses so I don’t squint and get crows feet. If you are a big skier keep in mind that the reflection off the snow, and cold air can really age your skin. You might want to try the ETSIS SportEscape Hat under your ski helmet. Even my husband does this one.
To keep your skin looking as good in the winter as it does in the summer you not only want to add moisture to your skin, but keep moisture locked into your skin. Look for products that are exfoliating, hydrating, and contain hyaluronic acid (AHA) in them for the best results.
No one likes having dark circles, puffy eyes, or the dreaded droopy eyelids. You can be assured that if your mother, father, grandmother had puffy eyes and dark circles that your chances for having them is pretty good. Other factors that contribute to not having your eyes look their best is your lifestyle choices such as smoking, drinking, salt intake, and yes the sun. You should never go without sunglasses and a good women’s sun protection hat. Otherwise not only will you have dark circles and puffy eyes, you will have major crows feet and deep wrinkles.
Most bags under the eyes are the result of accumulated fat in the eye area. This happens when the septum surrounding the eyeball weakens, causing the outer layer of fat within the socket to sink forward – making it look like you have literal “bags” under your eyes.
Unfortunately, the only cure for bags under the eyes is a surgical procedure called blepharoplasty, which is designed to remove excess fat, skin and muscle around the eyes. But if you can’t stomach – or afford – surgery there are still some things you can do to decrease the appearance of bags under your eyes.
Rosewater and witch-hazel soaked in cotton pads(3-4 together)-better if chilled a bit. Apply for 15-20 minutes.
Believe it or not but really cold milk soaked in cotton pads (3-4 round pads together)
Apply for 15-20 minutes
As I turned 57 this year I noticed that my eyelids have become slightly hooded for a lack of a better word. About 30 years ago I did have surgery performed on my upper eyelids with great results. Gravity has taken over since then but not enough for me to think about surgery (although, newer surgery procedures today use hi-tech lasers to make incisions and then remove the excess skin). Down time is not as long and the chance of any left over scarring from incision is very minimal when done in the hands of a good surgeon.
* I found this great at home beauty tip by DREAM Look-Instant Eye Lift. These self-adhesive invisible strips once applied to your eyelid and instantly your eyelids no longer look droopy!
For about the past year I have been trying a variety of eye treatments such as eye creams for fine lines and some wonderful under eye conditioning eye pads, and a couple of at home tricks I learned along the way to fight off puffy eyes, dark circles, and fine lines. Keep in mind that when it comes to the eye area we can all be a little sensitive and react differently to skincare products based on our skin type. Most of the products and beauty tips I have tried are either organic in nature, or products that are parabin free.
*Beauty Tip-If you live in a warm climate year round (such as I do) I would keep all my skin care products in the refrigerator and take them out about 20-30 minutes prior to using. This helps preserve the integrity of my products until I use the entire jar or tube. Since there are no additives or preservatives in some of these products some might oxidize such as vitamin-C serum if not kept air tight and cool I have found.
Favorite Eye Creams
When applying eye creams you want to apply with the middle finger and apply gently with a slight tap, tap, tap from the outside corner working your way inward. Remember that creams can travel so when applying I actually go along the lower area of my eye socketnot close to my lashes. I love all three products listed below and rotate them on a regular basis.
1. Revaleskin Replenishing Eye Therapy has exclusive 1% CoffeeBerry extract and antioxidants deeply penetrates the skin to moisturize and rejuvenate, minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and puffiness around the eyes. Use AM and PM
2. Dr. Bellin all in One Eye Cream- IMPROVES aging skin and keeps it well hydrating while shielding eyes from future free radical damage.
3. ReJuva MD offers one of the better eye creams on the market and is also one of my favorite overall skincare lines.
Favorite Eye Mask
These are great and I always keep mine in the refrigerator for even better results and an extra kick of coolness. These are great to take on a trip since the air on planes can really dehydrate your skin. Or these are also great in the wintertime when the dry heat and cold temperatures take a toll on our skin.
are good for brightening, de-puffing, and hydrating. Follow up with your favorite Bliss eye cream.
2.Dr. H Bellin offers a powerful cocktail of highly effective natural ingredients, with these amazing eye pads. Containing Red Seaweed, Aloe, Vitamins, and Hyaluronic Acid. Co-Q10 helps protect the eye area from future damage. Significantly improves tone and texture. If you are really in a pinch and have had a long day and need to keep going just 15-20 minutes and you will feel and look totally refreshed. I keep these in the refrigerator at all times. These are my ULTIMAE FAVORITE must have EYE MASK! Results are better if you can lie down and relax and if not you can even put these on top of your make up and then touch up if possible.
3. DHC Very affordable and good . You get six treatments for about $8.00 plus shipping. These you leave on for 15-20 minutes and they say you can wear over night but I found they leave lines around the area applied. Must be applied to clean dry skin.
Stay Tuned for Home Remedies for Puffy Eyes!
*Most important is to protect your eyes in general from the sun by wearing sunglasses so you don’t squint and be sure and wear your ETSIS Hat and SunEscape Protection panels to protect the rest of your face.
Here are my favorite at home–quick-and easy–remedies for puffy eyes!
1. Teaspoons in the freezer-my favorite! Easy, no cost, and affective!
2. Sliced Idaho potatoes-cold slices of course there is something in the potatoes that helps with dark circles. Leave on until the chill is gone and then replace for at least a 10-20 minute treatment.
3. Green Tea Bags-You want to wet your teabags and then I wrap in plastic wrap and place in freezer. Green tea is now used in many skin care products, has antioxidants and is known for its soothing abilities.
4. Chilled cucumber slices
*Most important is to protect your eyes in general from the sun by wearing sunglasses so you don’t squint and be sure and wear your ETSIS Hat and SunEscape Protection panels to protect the rest of your face.
If you have some suggestions or products that you have tried and would like to share with us please send them our way. Once every quarter at our office (ETSIS Hats) receives the Test Tube kit by New Beauty Magazine full of samples. This is a great way to sample new products with out busting your piggy bank.
One of my favorite new finds for 2012 is the OxyDerm at home Ozone Facial tool. If you get monthly or menopausal breakouts, or have persistent acne problems then the OxyDerm facial tool is for you. Skincare experts know that bacteria are the cause of acne and the only way to get rid of acne is to get rid of the bacteria. The OxyDerm allows you to fight bacteria on a daily basis with Ozone-03 technology, which has sterilizing capabilities. This is the perfect follow up after a skincare treatment from your esthetician or dermatologist. I very rarely have breakouts, but have been using my OxyDerm for about a month now and my skin looks brighter and I feel like my products are actually working better! It only takes 1-2 minutes per day at the most to improve the appearance of your skin. My assistant, who does have the occasional breakout, loved it so much that she took mine and so I had to buy a second one!
Beauty Tip: Don’t forget to stay out of the sun when it comes to your face if you want great results from any of your skin care products and or treatments
Once again there is a hot debate going on over Vitamin D. All the experts agree that it is vital for your body’s health. Where the debate is thriving is in the Daily Amount We Need? Is It Safe to Get our Vitamin-D from the Sun? And do skincare products that have vitamin-D really deliver results?
Well, if there is one thing all the experts are agreeing on is the need for us to have Vitamin-D on a daily basis, especially those of us that try to avoid the sun at all cost. There are hundreds of thousands of individuals that have medical conditions that do not allow them to go in the sun, such as Lupus and other autoimmune diseases (for me I am super sensitive to the sun and it creates wrinkles, causes brown spots, and I have had to have several pre cancer spots removed in the past). But can blocking it out completely be more dangerous to my organ function, bones, moods, and cognitive abilities? After researching the need for vitamin-D in combination with my personal choice to stay out of the sun, I concluded that I need a daily supplement (especially since I am menopausal and vitamin-D is very important for my bone density!). The bigger question is how much do we need? Sadly it seems none of the experts can agree on how much that is. Since diet and sun exposure play a major role (and I really am a true SunEscaper) then some experts say I need between 2000- 5000 ibu daily. After doing some supplement brand research I decided on a brand called “Purity” and they suggest for “optimum results” to take with Omega-3 fish oil as well…looking forward to some great results! Bottoms Up!
If you have any information you would like to share on this hot new topic we would love to hear from you!
If you are someone suffering from sensitivity to the sun and have experienced adverse symptoms even during short periods of exposure to the sun then generally there is an underlying cause. Individuals that suffer from autoimmune disease such as Fibromyalgia as well as arthritis, lupus, and even those diagnosed with skin cancer have to be so careful when outside and even when driving or riding in a car, windows at the office let UVA/UVB rays shine in, and even the reflection off surfaces such as cement, glass, sand and water can really effect those that are truly sensitive to the sun.
For those that have been diagnosed and know what is causing their sensitivities, covering up with good sun clothing is imperative and also wearing one of our women’s sun precaution hats would really benefit how you feel? Covering up is the key here since sunscreens don’t really help under these health conditions. If you notice you don’t feel well after being out in the sun for even short periods; then you might want to see your Doctor. In past blogs I have mentioned how the sun effects those with rosacea and melasma but was recently asked about Arthritis-this is what I found. Since I do not suffer from arthritis I have referred to other sources for you to read concerning arthritis and the sun.
I always enjoy receiving new insights so please share any updates about sun precaution with us that you may have. In the meantime remember Escaping The Sun In Style is easy when wearing your ETSIS Hat.
Hands down my favorite sample in my recent test tube kit by New Beauty!
The product is by Sarah McNamara and is called “Miracle Skin Transformer”. For once a product lives up too its claims. Offered in 7 shades this foundation left my skin looking smooth, radiant, and had that air brushed look and felt like silk when applying to my skin. This is not a heavy foundation but gives you coverage like I have never had before. I just wish it were SPF 30 instead of just 20 SPF. Definitely worth the trip to Sephora or order online at miracleskintransformer.com
I have tried several different eye treatments and use eye masks at least 3 times per week so I consider myself an expert. The Anti-Fatigue Eye Mask Kit was recently featured in my latest Test Tube Kit by New Beauty. I liked how this product comes in two separate packages (I think it is important to have the actual product keep its integrity until ready to use). When ready to use you simply unscrew the individual tube and squeeze onto eye pads. *(Apply to clean dry skin around the eye area). This eye mask is full of anti-oxidants, peptides, soluble molecules, and amino acids found in certain mushrooms that help fight free radicals making it one of the most supercharged eye mask I have used! Thanks for reading!
I am always a little in shock when out for my morning walk and the variety of hats I see and don’t see for that matter. It would be hard with all the marketing and advertising not to be aware of sun precaution and the notion of whether or not to wear sunscreen or protective clothing to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. What I am most surprised to see is the large number of women who are still wearing baseball caps and think they are protecting their face! The only thing a baseball hat protects is the top of you head and if you are lucky most of your forehead. What about the rest of your face? Your cheeks, nose, ears, and neck? Most hats do very little to protect your face from the reflection of the sun off surfaces? Yes, I am sure most of you are going to tell me that you use a good sunscreen and that’s a good thing, but unless you are using a 30 SPF+ you might not be getting the protection you think. THERE IS NO SUNSCREEN ON THE MARKET THAT PROTECTS YOUR SKIN 100% FROM THE UVA RAYS THAT PENETRATE DEEP INTO THE DERMIS LAYER OF THE SKIN. THIS IS WHERE ALL THE SERIOUS DAMAGE TAKES PLACE AND CAN SHOW UP YEARS LATER! Sorry, but I have several friends who told me all about the sunscreens they used and I have watched over the years (they are now turning 40, 50, and 60) and their skin now looks old, leathery, full of dark brown spots, lots of wrinkles, and they look older then they are- Yikes! Why do women spend so much money on skin care products and treatments if they are going right back out in the sun without a good sun hat that really offers sun protection?
Living in Hawaii I see all sorts of contraptions women are creating to protect their faces, such as full frontal visor like mask that cover their entire face, towels pinned or tied around their face/neck and then a hat put on top, or trying to carry an umbrella and wear a hat. I used to be one of these ladies trying to wear whatever I could to protect my face from aging UVA and UVB rays when outdoors. There was another problem, what do I do when I am driving my car or I am on a boat for sun protection? This is when I went to work and was determined to design, create, whatever you want to call it the best and most attractive sun hat which would be versatile and stylish for any outdoor activity-driving your car, golfing, boating, walking the dog, biking, windsurfing, or spectator sports. *Keep in mind the sun is damaging winter summer spring and fall and even on a cloudy day those UVA and UVB rays will age and damage your skin
A good sunhat has at least a 3.5-4”brim and is made from fabric that has been tested and has a label that shows UPF 50+ and that is what 99% of the hats out there offer. But what about the sides of my face, my mouth nose, ears, and neck…What will protect them? The answer is the ETSIS Hat, the best sun hat on the market for anti aging and full sun protection. What makes our sun hats so different? First, not only are they stylish and versatile, they come with snap-in and snap-out SunEscape Protection Panels so you can determine how much protection you need or want. All of our SunEscape Protection Panels are rated the highest rating of UPF 50+ so you can be assured that both your face and neck area are protected! The SunEscape Protection panels are made from a bamboo fabric, which is known to be cooler in the summer months and warmer in the winter months. We tested over 70 fabrics to come up with the best fabric for both warm and cold climates. The bottom line is that there is no other hat that offers such a unique and stylish concept when it comes to protecting your skin from the sun such as the ETSIS Hat.
Some individuals with conditions such as Melasma, Rosacea, Lupus, or have just had a laser treatment, chemical peel, or cosmetic surgery will want to take full advantage of what the ETSIS Hat has to offer for sun protection. Millions, yes millions of women and men are ending up at the doctor’s office to have some pre-cancerous spot removed, an IPL or Chemical peel to reverse the sun’s damage, or in the worst case scenario have just been diagnosed with skin cancer. Did you know that most skin cancer is on the left side of your face from driving in your car? Your typical sun hat no matter how large the brim will not protect your face completely from the reflection from the sun’s light and seriously you can’t wear a 7-inch brim hat when driving or doing sports.
I hope that the next time you are looking for a great sun hat you will turn to ETSIS Hats for real sun protection and real results for beautiful, healthy, and younger looking skin. Please see our YouTube video for the many versatile ways that you can wear your ETSIS Hat. Save your skin and look ten years younger when you practice real sun precaution by ETSIS!
There is a little bit of controversy when it comes to exfoliating your skin and how much exfoliating do we really need? Unfortunately as we age the turnover of our skin cells slow down and if we don’t exfoliate our skin can lack luster, create larger pores, and your skin care products end up not working as well since they have to fight their way across dead skin cells, with the potential of never really being absorbed by your skin, but instead rest on top. YIKES, that sounds awful, but not to worry there are several great exfoliators available on the market! One of my favorites for most skin types is by Dr. Brandt which was recently featured in my Test Tube Kit by New Beauty. I love the fact that this product now comes in a tube instead of a jar-so it keeps much longer and does not oxidize every time you open it and expose it to air.
Not only does this offer the finest pharmaceutical-grade crystals that will not scratch your skin, but also includes chamomile, aloe, and jojoba oil to calm any redness in your skin while antioxidants like green tea, white tea, and grape seed extract fight free radical damage and help to slow the signs of aging. I exfoliate 2-3 times per week at the most, but make sure you start slowly with any new product and do a patch test first. I have tried several and find Dr Brandt’s to be one of the best I have used. I have fair skin and never get my face in the sun and consider myself to have sensitive skin, and my skin responded very well to this product.
If you haven’t heard by now you soon will about how important topical Vitamin C products are for your skin’s health. Known as one of the most potent ingredients in your skincare arsenal, but be aware, not all Vitamin C products are created equal. Be sure and have your skin analyzed to get a recommendation as to the type and strength of vitamin c serums or products that would be right for your skin type. I just received my latest issue of New Beauty Magazine and they have broken down the mystery behind the vitamin C trend. I highly recommend reading this prior to your consultation so if you have any questions you will be armed with the most recent updates on products containing Vitamin C.
Here are two great articles on the benefits of Vitamin C!
Skin Care Alert: Is my sunscreen enough after a facial or a treatment to protect my new fresh face from the sun?
The other night I was sitting around with some of my girlfriends and of course we always end up talking about skincare and anti-aging. I decided to recap the evening and some of our ongoing questions and maybe get some chatter and feedback from some of you. Do sunscreens interfere with the efficacy of your skincare products? And do you need more then just a sunscreen after an invasive skincare procedure?
Let’s say you just went and had a facial (maybe a hydro facial) and during your facial they applied several serums/peptides for your specific skincare treatment. But, now the Esthetician is about to apply a sunblock/sunscreen, as her last step prior to you leaving the spa (this is on top of freshly clean pores and delicate restorative serums/peptides. Doesthe sunscreen/sunblock, mineral powder, or what ever they might use for sun precaution-take away from the efficacy of these serums and or peptides?
Another question asked was suppose you just had a chemical peel, Dermabrasion, or fractional laser, and your skin is pretty raw and red, but you still have to drive home from the dermatologist or the spa; What are you going to do for sun protection for your face? Is a heavy sunscreen the best thing to put on this delicate skin? You really don’t want any UVA or UVB rays on your skin at this time, or maybe even for the next few weeks.
Conclusions we came too: I would wait at least 10 minutes prior to applying any sunscreen product after a facial. If you had a chemical peel, Dermabrasion, or fractional treatment, the doctor usually will apply a type of soothing face cream, which may or may not contain sunscreen; make sure you ask! He/She should stress the importance of sun protection.
Conclusion #2- when in doubt we always wear our ETSIS Hats in Hawaii especially when driving. Even with a 30 SPF+ broad spectrum, we feel that our skin is especially vulnerable to the sun’s UVA/UVB rays after any of the above mentioned treatments.
I have to admit I have very mixed feelings about heavy broad-spectrum sunscreens on my face and in general I don’t wear them. Although, I am a complete fanatic about wearing my ETSIS Hat for real sun protection. Sorry ladies I can always shampoo and blow-dry my hair but to re-do my skin is not so easy or as cost effective. You have to reapply sunscreen every two hours in order for it to be really effective and how do you do that if you have make up on? The ETSIS Hat always gives you 50+ UPF for long lasting results from any treatment, facial, or procedure.
I would love to hear your thoughts/feedback on this topic.
Since we live in Hawaii most people think that we do not get chapped, dry, cracked skin since we obviously do not have cold winter weather. But even in beautiful Hawaii we experience dry, cracked and rough skin and my husband is always complaining about what works and what he likes or dislikes. Like most men he doesn’t want anything that smells like lavender or a fruit, he just wants something for his hands, elbows, and feet that is not greasy and really works. So when I got my New Beauty Test Tube Kit this month and saw the Lumene sample I had him give it a try on his heels. The first remark is that it was not greasy and was absorbed right away and the second was that it was unscented. Since the sample was so small he asked me the next day if I could get him more of the SOS Cream…I think he likes it and when I asked if he would recommend it he said “sure.” Later that day I felt the skin on his heels and they felt very smooth and soft. So, I decided to give it a try on my elbows and was amazed that with in one hour my skin felt like silk! In the past when I have traveled to places such as Vegas my hands get chapped right away; this is one product I will be taking with me when I travel!
If there is one thing I believe it is that Japanese women really have it going on when it comes to skincare. Unlike so many other women, they never tan their skin and they avoid the sun at all cost (their goal is to keep their skin as white as possible and free from environmental pollutants). So, when I received my latest Test Tube Kit by New Beauty and saw this new product by Mirai that was created by both Japanese and American women I was anxious to give it a try. I wish we could get more Japanese skincare products into the USA such as this one. I couldn’t wait to try it so for one week straight I used twice a day in the morning and evening. I do want to mention that I do lightly exfoliate every morning when taking my shower and I do believe that it makes all the difference in the world when applying body lotion products. I really liked the pump bottle that the lotion came in, this way your product keeps its integrity until the last bit is used. I will definitely put this on my list of “go to” products for friends and myself. Hopefully in the near future we will see more Japanese skincare products in the USA such as Mirai-Body Care.
Ok, I can’t even pronounce it, so my curiosity made me read a little more info before I tried it. The main ingredient comes from snake venom!. Some actions of snake venom are poisonous of course but I guess other actions can promote healthy skin-I wasn’t sure what to make of that. Crème VenoMax utilizes natural plant extracts to mimic polypeptides in snake- venom, which are suppose to relax fine lines and wrinkles instantly. This patent pending formula also elevates hyaluronic acid levels to boost hydration and really did make my skin glow! Although my assistant mentioned that it did make her breakout I think it is definitely a new product to look into.
I have to admit that at first I was a little nervous to try this product, so as with any of my New Beauty Test Tube lotions and potions I tried it on the inside of my arm first. After doing a little reading, I discovered that Crème Venoxmax was created by the well-known Immunocologie formulator Manzoor Jaffery. He was the first to use alphahydroxy and holds the patent for it as well. He is also known for the superior unique fermentation process that ensures efficacy in all his formulas. This boosted my confidence in the products claims. I tried on my neck and décolletage and did so for two weeks and have to admit that my chest and lines on my neck were not as noticeable. I am anxious to try this product on my face, but I am currently testing another product; as soon as I finish I am going to try Crème VenoMax on my face and will share my results at that time. Has anyone else tried this product? If so we would love to hear from you.
I have been a big fan of products from SkinCeuticals, especially when it comes to their serums such as Phloretin CF and CE Frulic. When you use these two amazing serums you prevent premature signs of aging. Phloretin CF corrects existing photo damage, and inhibits future UV –induced hyperpigmentation. Frulic CE has powerful anti-oxidants, protects against free radicals, stimulate collagen production, and helps replace essential lipids to protect your skin’s barrier. I recommend when layering these two products to wait 1-2 minutes between applying. The benefits to both these amazing products are they cannot be washed off or rubbed off once your skin has absorbed them! Once absorbed you get all the benefits of the active ingredients.! The delivery system that SkinCeuticals has incorporated into their skincare products is top notch. Truthfully most products just sit on the top of your skin and evaporate.
Even though these products help guard your skin against free radicals and UV damage it is not a green light to ignore real Sun Protection. Remember that UVA=AGING. You still need to protect your skin from both UVA/UVB rays, otherwise you will not see desired results from these two products; It’s like going up the down escalator. Incorporate a broad- spectrum 30+ sunscreen daily and as with any sunscreen you need to reapply every 2 hours to keep your skin protected.
Now, I f you are like me this is nearly impossible throughout the day and that is one of the reasons I always keep my ETSIS Sun Hat in the car with me at all times. Why spend all this money on skincare products and then skip the last VITAL step: SUN PRECAUTION!
I am always researching and trying to keep updated with new skincare products and 2012 is off to an interesting start. Recently, I was introduced to the latest in skincare for my face by a company called “LifeLine Skin Care” a subsidiary of “International StemCell Corporation” whom I met at the I-Spa show in October 2011.
This can be a controversial topic and I might suggest if you have any questions about this company research their web for a broader explanation about what they do. For me stem cell research is amazing and exciting. The company strives in developing ethical, potent cells that will be used to regenerate and repair damaged and diseased tissue. After reading more information about “ISC” and the amazing things they were doing it only made sense to try their skincare products. For now they only offer two: Defense-Day Serum to help promote cellular proliferation, and offers a SPF-15 (I will discuss this later) and Recovery-Night Serum which helps rejuvenate skin and fight free radicals.
As our skin ages, it becomes thinner and more easily damaged. Wrinkles, skin laxity, discoloration, and most of us loose that fullness in our face as well. LifeLine is confident that the stem cells used in these two serums, work together helping your own skin produce new skin cells that make your skin thicker, smoother, and healthier! I think cellular turn over of our skin is the number one secret to younger looking skin. Since I have tried so many other skincare products, expensive and drugstore affordable, both with positive results, I wanted to see if this new R&D really has something to it, and if I really am going to experience something significantly different from other products.
After using this product for the past four weeks the results I have seen are good enough for me to continue for another 4 weeks. I really think that I need at least 3-months with a product such as LifeLine to see if I see a major difference in some fine lines I have along with some hyper-pigmentation. There is a reason for this and it is my age! Since I am 57 years old my cell turnover is slower and I am experiencing all of the above I mentioned when it comes to aging-so lets see if it is worth all the hype and the price. About $150.00/bottle
*Note: My only down side to this product is since it only offers a SPF of 15 please, please make sure you use additional sunscreen.
SPF 15 is not strong enough to fight against UVA/UVB rays. It doesn’t make sense to use any skincare product to stop or reverse the signs of aging if you are going to go out in the sun without proper protection. You should use at least a 30+SPF broad -spectrum product. Once again it is like going up the down escalator when it comes to battling the aging effects from the sun. So when in doubt grab your ETSIS Hat for superior protection all the time any time. Recently touted by Spa professionals as the best women’s sun hat on the market today!
I am so excited that EMINENCE skincare is going to be offered at the Kahala Resort Spa-Yea, I don’t have to have it sent to me any longer! Just a five- minute walk to this amazing Spa and these incredible natural organic skincare products are right at my finger- tips.
In Hawaii we really try to protect our environment and especially when it comes to products that end up back in our beautiful waters. Eminence has been around for decades and is known for truly being one of the greenest companies when it comes to the production of their products. Their commitment to keeping the planet green crosses over all aspects of their company, from farming, harvest, green packaging, to getting products to you.
Eminence addresses a variety of skincare concerns such as pre-mature aging, wrinkling, sun damage, acne, loss of vitality, tone, and radiance. They are always improving upon and creating new products such as new AGE CORRECTIVE body care and their amazing Bamboo Firming Serum. The integrity and efficacy of their products is recognized through out the skincare industry as top rated. When they say ORGANIC they mean it and with proven results.
ETSIS Hats is anticipating Brian Goodwin’s personal visit from EMINENCE SKINCARE on March 18th at the Kahala Resort Spa from 10-12 and of course pupus and spirits will be served. You can also book a facial that day with Eminence products. Brian will be introducing the entire collection as well as their latest in anti aging. ETSIS Hats will also be featured during this event and we will be discussing the effects the sun has on your skin, how the sun interferes with products, and treatments. ETSIS Hats will be bringing a very special collection of our beautiful women’s sun hats and designer SunEscape Protection panels that snap into our hats. You will be able to mix and match solids or prints and make your own fashion statement while Escaping The Sun In Style”. If you are in Hawaii or planning a visit we hope to see you at the Kahala Resort- March 18th 10:00-12:00.
So many companies are coming out with new products all making incredible claims. The only way to really see if they work is to try them for yourself. I think in general if you follow a good daily skincare routine, use quality product(s), and of course protect your skin from the sun, chances are you will see some improvement in your skin.
I went to get my regular facial on Saturday and Sarah (my esthetician) was very excited about this new product and asked me toplease give it a try. Sarah doesn’t get excited that often about products so when she told me about Nerium AD (expensive $120.00) I thought “OK,” if Sarah thinks it is amazing then why not give it a try. Sarah had been using it for 9 days and she took me outside the spa into the natural light to show me the fine lines around her eyes were diminishing from the picture she took earlier. Although Nerium AD is a direct sales company and I usually stay clear, I have to admit it intrigued me (the product).
During advanced research on the uses of the Nerium AD oleander plant, an accidental discovery was made: the unique properties of Nerium oleander provided remarkable age-defying results when applied to the skin, targeting:
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Hyper-pigmentation
Uneven Skin Texture
Enlarged Pores
Aging or Sun-Damaged Skin
I am completing my trials with another product I am testing, but just for fun I tried this product last night to see how it felt on my skin. It had a tightening effect. Although you only use it at night as a treatment, it should not be used with other products such as vitamin-C, glycolic, or any skin lightening products. They really stress using this on its own for PM skin care. In the morning I applied all my other serums, and moisturizers! Since I did purchase this product I am going to start in 10 days with my own personal test of course-stand by for my follow up blog.
I would like to hear from anyone else that might have tried this new product Nerium AD and what your results were like.
I have been a big fan of the company Eminence, what they stand for environmentally, and of course some of their amazing products. My favorite product that I use daily is their Coconut Milk Cleanser. Some days I wear a lot of makeup and other days when working from home I wear no make up at all. On those days that I have to remove foundation, mascara, liner, the works, I might need to wash my face a couple of times and this cleanser has never left my skin feeling dry. This is highly recommended for sensitive skin and leaves your skin with a nice dewy feel to it. It has never irritated my eyes and my eye make including mascara.
Now that Spring has sprung, and Summer is fast approaching, we’re already thinking about how we want to style our ETSIS hats. While we do live in paradise; and we’re not complaining, but sometimes Islanders yearn for a shot of cold or two so we can wear the layers that are indicative of fall and winter. That’s why spring and summer always has us stylistically excited. We don’t have to compromise style for weather!
Today’s featured hat is the DayEscape. One of our favorite ways to style the panels on this hat is utilizing the Tie-Back style. You can tie a simple ponytail, incorporate the fabric into your braid, and really anything else you can think of. Monochrome looks have been on trend for a couple of seasons, and an all-white palette is perfect for the warmer weather. A punch of metallic with the necklace and the sandals and the pop of color in the sunglasses keep the look from going too monotone.
There’s still time to vote for us on QVC’s Sprouts Featured Items. Vote for us to see ETSIS hats featured on QVC online!
Yesterday The Star Advertiser quoted this article from The Denver Post on new FDA regulations regarding labeling on sunscreen. This seems like it would greatly help us as consumers.
This recipe for an at home facial was made new to us via Pinterest. Using everyday items from your pantry, you can bring the spa home. Maybe we’ll try it out and blog about it!
In this series, we look back at posts that we feel are worth revisiting.
With warmer months coming up, we’ll be spending more time outside. While we are exposed to the sun all year long, summertime sun has that extra…oomph, if you will. Enter Sun Guard. With one (or a few!) load of laundry, amp up your sun protection game with one easy and affordable product!
Location on Body: To be used on clothing that would be worn to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.
Date Started: Early 2010 still using
Price Points:$1.99 per load of wash depending where you purchase. Also available on Amazon.
Benefits/Positive: Easy to use wash-in sun protection. Sun Guard is safe for most washable fabrics, such as cotton, linen, rayon, and silk to mention a few.
Special Ingredients: Tinosorb active ingredient that provides the UPF 30 factor once clothes have been washed with the Sun Guard product and blocks 96% of the sun’s harmful rays.
Negative/Reaction: I did not have any negative reaction. With that being said be aware if you have sensitivities to laundry detergents or soaps in general.
Total Experience: Every little bit of sun precaution helps the fight against Skin Cancer. What an easy and cost affective way to help everyone in your family with sun protection. Not everyone is always going to remember to put sunscreen on and some individuals are allergic to the ingredients directly entering the skin. This product offers a great alternative to sunscreen lotions and potions. The protection is good for about 20 washings so you do not have to wash your clothes in Sun Guard after each wearing and nor is it necessary! You would use your regular detergent for in between washing. Best of all this adds UPF 30 to any clothing, so if you are watching your budget this is definitely worth every penny! Follow instructions on packaging.
$1.99/ for 1 oz does a standard load of laundry
*Beauty Tip: There are similar products on the market, but Sun Guard has been endorsed by the “Skin Cancer Foundation.”
Back to “The Jersey Shore Effect,” should it be illegal for minors to use tanning beds? We think you know our stance on that.
A friend of mine pointed me to this Daily Mail article about terrible tans. The article led me to find Pale is the New Tan. And while the laughs are certainly to be had, there’s certainly a reason behind the author’s taking notice of the bronzing in this country.
Think natural beauty products can’t pack the same punch? Refinery 29 begs to differ and highlights 12 up and coming natural beauty brands you need to know.
More DIY fun! This time, Women Skin Care and Beauty Blog brings us yogurt face mask recipes. Yogurt is said to help with oiliness, dullness, acne, and dry skin. Seems like the whole gamut.
Is your makeup with SPF providing enough protection for your skin? Probably not. Only 1 in 5 people protect their skin adequately on a regular, consistent basis.
“America’s Got Talent” host Nick Cannon’s health battles are being well documented as of late, he was recently diagnosed with kidney disease and Lupus. Lupus is a condition that can greatly be affected by the sun. Cannon is documenting his health journey. First episode can be seen here.
Personally, I am not too much of a pattern wearer. The majority of my closet is based on solids. But every now and then, a stripe peeks through. I think the striped shirt (or in this week’s case, tank.) is definitely a staple in one’s wardrobe. Stripes can go nautical, Parisian chic, collegiate
, and despite many a style myth, can be worn by all body types! The manipulation of the stripe pattern is what will trick the eye.
This week’s featured hat is the ResortEscape. And in an amazing shade of teal!
It seems as though I am one of the only people out there who doesn’t own and hasn’t tried The Clarisonic. Our CEO swears by it, a ton of my girlfriends sing its praises, and my mom’s skin looks like it’s going back in time since she started using it. Dr. Cynthia Bailey; one of our favorite skin care gurus, wrote a fantastic blog about the benefits of Clarisonic. Did you know?
The Clarisonic is “intelligent” which means your Clarisonic customizes your skin cleaning.
Your Clarisonic can tell the difference between each type of brush head (deep pore cleansing, acne, etc.) and act accordingly.
The fact that the Clarisonic works along with the skin means that it can clean the pores at a deeper level without causing friction to the skin.
Clarisonic’s sonic frequency is more than 300 movements per second (!) and is 6 times more efficient than manual cleaning.
The Clarisonic helps with skin absorption, your skin treatment products will be more effective. source
Now, why haven’t I gotten one for myself? I use a Sonicare toothbrush, why not sonic technology for my skin? Unlike a statement bag, this season’s hottest shoe, healthy and vibrant skin is something that never goes out of style. Perhaps it’s time to bite the bullet. And besides, look at all the fabulous colors The Clarisonic Mia comes in!
Ever heard of Yervoy? It’s a new drug in Canada that is for patients who have failed to find or do not tolerate other therapy for advanced metastatic melanoma. What are your thoughts? According to the Leader Post, it still has to go through further review.
Beauty isn’t just skin deep. But you know what is? Sun damage. This model is only 19 years old!
An oldie but goodie (great, actually!) blog from Dr. Bailey. Yes, UV rays go through windows. And yes, there is something you can do about it.
Think UPF clothing has to be frumpy dumpy? So wrong! Check out Cover at Neiman Marcus.
Read this blog, but secretly really love being tan but hate the smell of self tanners? The folks at Beautylish compiled a list of the best smelling self tanners. Have you tried any of these?
Obagi’s got a great list of skincare faux pas that. Got. To. Go! We were really surprised at how your phone could be part of your skin troubles.
Over Easter weekend, we were inspired by one of Devra’s friends wearing her GolfEscape hat in white. Not one to be bound by names and given purposes, she rocked our golf hat on the beach! And looked great no less. Our hats go where YOU want to go.
ETSIS GolfEscape hat.
DaKine rashguard. Perhaps wear this almost matching one-piece underneath?
White House Black Market swim skirt. Or add a fun pop of color with these board shorts!
Oh, and of course, we need to add…
Please don’t forget your broadband, UVA and UVB fighting sunscreen!
For many of those that cope with autoimmune diseases, prolonged sun exposure can be extra detrimental. Photosensitivity is a feature in two different kinds of lupus; systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and cutaneous lupus.
UVB light rays (the light rays responsible for burns) induces apoptosis in the skin. Apoptosis is the process in which the body rids itself of old or dying cells. Studies have shown that in people with lupus, UVB rays will bring an influx of macrophage cells along with the normal apoptosis cycle. Macrophage are cells that attack foreign substances in the body. Basically, sun exposure promotes the body to attack itself; the very very general description of what lupus does as a disease overall.
Now, exactly what does this result in?
- “Butterfly rash,” occuring on the nose and cheeks.
- Discoids, disk shaped lesions.
- A psoriasis-like rash on the chest, back, and arms; subacute lupus erythematosus.
This doesn’t mean you need to hide indoors. Practicing sun precaution is something we all need to be more diligent about. Reveiw your sun basics, and for more information about lupus visit The Lupus Foundation of America.
Years of swimming competitively, surfing, and heat styling have left my hair so dry and in dire need of TLC. I; and with what seems like the rest of the world, found a savior in argan oil. Argan oil is produced from kernels of the argan tree, an indigenous tree to Morocco. The oil is valued for its medical, cosmetic, and nutrition uses. It’s rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, two things my dry hair needs to soak up. I use argan oil to add shine to my hair and tame fly-aways, I even use it generously on wet hair and let my hair air dry. It leaves my hair so much softer than when it air dries alone.
And there’s argan oil on the market for every budget. In this first edition of Splurge, Spend, & Save, we’ve got the battle of the argan oils.
Splurge: Josie Maran Argan Oil $48
Spend: Paul Brown Argan Oil with Kukui Nut Lipids $26.99
Save: Organix Moroccan Argan Oil $7.99
Out of the three products, I have only used the Paul Brown oil. It smells great, leaves my parched ends in much better shape, and makes me feel good about buying local in Hawaii. I am so tempted to try the Organix oil, how can you refuse that price? And the cult following of the Josie Maran oil has me thinking that it might be worth shelling out for?
Have you used any of the products you’ve seen here? What do you think? We’d love to hear.
The Midweek Roundup is a gathering of articles and blogs that we’ve been reading that we think you’ll love. Here’s what’s been happening:
The Save Your Skin Foundation shared an iPhone app that tracks UV Index…in Canada. It’s appropriately titled UV Canada. But hey! What an awesome app, we’d love a U.S. version. Or even a Hawaii version!
SkinCeuticals + New Beauty + sun protection…can we say trifecta?
Back to tanning beds…you can catch even more than just UV rays. Ick! See what dailyglow has to say.
Now on the upside, tips to get a healthy tan. Yes, we said it. Healthy. Tan. Go get Dr. Bailey’s advice now!
The gals at Beautylish share some DIY acne spot treatments. Could it possibly save you from spending money on a Zeno hot spot? Perhaps.
A big MAHALO to New Beauty Magazine for including ETSIS hats as part of their sun protection arsenal!
As fans of New Beauty Magazine, we were absolutely giddy to see ourselves included with some great products that we love. Thank you New Beauty!
If you haven’t yet, you need (NEED!) to sign up for New Beauty’s Test Tube program. It really is the ultimate beauty product sampling program. Every three months, you receive a test tube with luxury products to sample and a hard copy edition of the magazine; all for a low price. We at ETSIS are huge product junkies, so this is right up our alley!
The ETSIS woman isn’t one to take life sitting down. Her weekends are jam packed. And on top of (all) that, looking stylish too?
Baseball caps are having quite the moment on the fashion street style blogs and runways for Fall 2012 (evidenced here, here, and here.). And while we’re not even close to fall, we can still utilize the look for a spring day in Hawaii. This outfit is perfect for watching the kids play sports.
For running around doing errands, wear the Land SportEscape in the tie-back style. When you’re in the bleachers, on the sidelines, or on shore; all in the sun, change it up to any one of the clinical wraps for more protection. The basic white shirt pictured is definitely more than it seems; it’s got a UPF of 50, we can certainly get behind that!
MelApp; launched by Health Discovery Corporation, has been ranked as one of the Top 10 Apps that Could Save Your Life. Using your device’s camera, it can deliver a risk analysis of your skin.
Discovered a FAN.TAS.TIC blog, Adventures with My Enemy…Melanoma. Its author Chelsea was diagnosed with stage III Melanoma at the age of 23. She bravely shares her journey with all of us.
Sephora’s Sun Safety Kit is out! It’s literally been my favorite kit of theirs to buy. $30 gets you $193 worth of stuff. Plus it comes in a cute case. This is a MUST purchase!
Now, we’ve all heard about how you should clean your makeup brushes regularly. But what about cleaning your actual makeup? This was a new one for us!
There are a ton of active ingredients in sunscreens, like titanium dioxide. Dr. Cynthia Bailey breaks down why zinc oxide products give the best protection.
This week on Sun Stylish, we’re ready to relax. Last week we were on the go, so naturally all we can think about is relaxing. Doesn’t brunch, a mimosa, and a walk by your favorite beach sound fantastic right now? With that in mind, we’ve paired our DayEscape hat with some relaxed linen pants, a great dip-dye tank, this incredible ocean printed clutch, and beach inspired jewelry.
The other week, my boyfriend came home one afternoon to find me in the living room of our apartment sitting on the floor with all the contents of my New Beauty Test Tube sprawled out in front of me. The image of me playing with makeup and random products isn’t very new to him. But what he did next was new to me.
He spies the bright green tube of Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Corrector, picks it up, reads the label. “Is this for real?” he says, turning the label to face me. I look at him suspiciously. “Like will this really work? My acne scars are looking gross,” he says. Before I even start to offer it to him he asks if he can use it. “Thanks,” he says real nonchalantly and heads into the bathroom.
That got me thinking, am I really that archaic in my thought that men’s skin care concerns really are still only limited to shaving? Then this article came out in the Wall Street Journal.
The article sites male focused grooming zones in retailers like Macy’s (seen above, image courtesy of WSJ), quotes sales associates recalling men looking for wrinkle cream, and states that more men are buying beauty products more than ever. Yet in my little apartment, I was left so perplexed by my man lamenting dark acne scars.
Ladies, what do you think? Are the men in your life more aware of their skin care regimen? Do you think the type of man described by The Wall Street Journal is really an every-man of sorts or he’s one in a thousand? You definitely know where we stand, skin care SHOULD be a part of healthy living. Share your thoughts, we’d like to know!
One of our friends and beloved customers, Yanna, recently sent us a photo of her looking totally chic while traveling on Hawaii, The Big Island.
See her rocking a blinged out custom ETSIS Hat, looking amazing while SunEscaping!
The snap-in ETSIS Sun Protection Panels are versatile! They’re not just for Sun Protecting your beautiful face or securing your hat, but also for tying to your baggage so you can wear your hat in a jiffy once you’ve de-boarded your plane. Très chic! Très intelligent! Non?
We can customize any hat to become an ETSIS Hat for any local Hawaii resident, looking to up the ante on style and Sun Protection. However, if you don’t live in Hawaii, you can always snag one of our many styles at our ETSIS Hats & Apparel Online Store, or in many retail stores across the country!
A recent, heartfelt testimonial from one of our customers highlights the clinical need our Sun-Stylish hats fulfill!
I was in Oahu last May 2011 and it was beautiful like I had remembered from many years prior… Years before I developed Vitiligo. For the past 8 years I have been wearing protective clothing, hats, and using SPF parasols. Last May was the first time I had to cover myself from head to ankles while visiting Hawaii. It was only at night I could be like everyone else and soak in the warmth of the islands. It’s somewhat odd to cover up on the beach in “sport” SPF clothing and Sun hat, but it’s a must.
I wish I knew of your company back then. At least looking cute while covered up on a beach of sun bathing bodies wouldn’t be so bad…
…I look forward to wearing the ETSIS hats and wrapping the panels around my neck. Of my face and neck area, my neck gives away that I have vitiligo because my natural color easily tans when wearing my other hats… The panels will help keep my freckles from darkening and showing the contrast…
Keep following your company’s mission and concept. You’re making a difference.
Thank you and God bless. Let the journey continue. –Trisha from Los Angeles
We feel for Trisha and her condition. She truly illustrates the need for a hat that takes fashion and health into account.
These words really touch our hearts. Knowing that we are helping someone Escape the Sun in Style™ is why ETSIS was created!
Did you know?
