You can’t rely on everything you read. As you probably have learned, there are some pretty outrageous cosmetic claims. Chances are you have probably bought a product or two that were based on claims that they did not live up to in the advertising or packaging. Here are some facts to help you make some good skin care product choices in 2016: There is no research that suggests there is any product that will work similar to injecting Botox or dermal fillers such as Aretcoll or Restylane, regardless of the claims or ingredients. Sadly, there is not any product, combination of, or magic potion that will eliminate wrinkles. You can find some that may help with fine lines but not wrinkles. (Sigh) You should not buy products according to your age because age is not a skin type and not everyone has the same skin at any certain age. When a product focus is ‘mature skin’ – beware! Usually those products are overly emollient moisturizers that do not provide a comprehensive approach to fighting signs of aging.  At all ages you should look for products that address your skin type and needs. Age spots, those brown, freckle-appearing skin discolorations, do not develop due to your age. These sun spots appear as a result of unprotected sun exposure. Choose products that protect your skin There is no evidence or research that validates the claim that your eye area needs different ingredients from those used on your face, neck area or your décolletage. Any product with antioxidants, emollients, and skin-repairing-anti-inflammatory ingredients will work. Save your money! Don’t get caught up in believing that more expensive cosmetics are better. You will find good and bad in both expensive and the less costly brands.  It should be about the ingredients, not the price that helps you choose the right products for your skin. All skin care companies will say that their products work; that does not equate to legitimate scientific research. Even when they claim studies prove what they say, you have to question under what conditions were those studies performed. When a product makes your skin tingle it is not helping, it is actually irritating your skin. Irritation or inflammation of the skin, no matter what the cause, impairs the skin’s immune and healing response. If you apply irritants to your skin, regardless if you have or don’t have the usual irritation response, damage is taking place and it adds up over time. (Experimental Dermatology, 2009 and Dermato-Endocrinology 2011). I can’t help thinking about that feeling when I used to think Noxema was the one product that I had to use for good skin; ouch! My face burnt and was flame red, yet it had to be true because the advertisement said so. Blackheads are not related to dirt, they are a result of too much sebum (oil) being produced.  Dead skin cells clog pores near the surface.  The mixture of oil and cellular debris oxidizes and turns black.  You cannot completely scrub them away. The only difference in moisturizer applied at night is that it does not have an SPF ingredient as a daytime cream should have. That is the only consideration for choosing a night cream, so don’t spend an excessive amount of money due to the marketing of these products. The words ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘won’t clog pores’ are meaningless. There are no approved or regulated standards for these statements anywhere in the world.  Now, just think of how many times you have heard or read them. It’s the same as ‘oil-free.’  A general rule of thumb is to avoid thick, creamy or balmy products as they are more likely to be the culprits that clog pores. If your skin tends to be oily use a well-formulated toner as a moisturizer during the day, followed by a light, matte-finish daytime moisturizer or liquid foundation with sunscreen.   At night try using a gel and serum to keep your pores from becoming clogged. Since there is no way to verify if claims that a product is truly dermatologist-approved or tested you should just ignore them since you don’t know if an approving dermatologist has a personal financial interest.  Instead, look for products that include ingredients that have been proven by research to be effective and safe for your skin. Being educated on ingredients is your best insurance for healthy product choices. New Year; New Eyebrows Eyebrows not only define and frame your eyes and accentuate your cheek bones, they can make a dramatic difference in your appearance.  When done correctly, they add a youthfulness not to be attained through mascara, eyeliner, or eye shadow. In Hollywood, many women are spending upwards of $12,000 for a procedure called “The Megan.”  This involves transplanting hair follicles from the back of the scalp to the forehead. Obviously, this approach is not for everyone. There are other solutions such as pencils, gels and powders that are not too complicated to use, however, they don’t look natural. There is a product that everyone is talking about called Wunderbrow. This product is quite simple to use and it’s waterproof and semi-permanent. The brow gels contain hair-like fibers that transform without having to use pencils, powders or permanent cosmetics. Your brows will look fuller and natural. Many who have used Wunderbrow found that using a smaller brush than the one that comes with it worked much better. The product dries quickly and does not wash off so be very careful about smudging. Sandi’s Q & A Q:  How should I apply moisturizer for the most benefit? A:  Massage you skin in a circular movement when you apply your moisturizer. This will increase the circulation promoting healthy, moisturized skin. Q:  What foods are good for having good skin? A:  Foods that are rich in vitamin C like oranges are a good choice to start with.  Vitamin C helps to reduce wrinkles. Citrus such as lemons promote healthy liver and kidneys; the connection between healthy organs and skin. Q:  I often have bags under my eyes when I stay up too late studying. How much sleep should I get to help prevent this? A:  It is recommended that you get 7-8 hours of sleep and stay hydrated. Q:  I want to use baby powder on my baby, but some family members have told me that I shouldn’t and I want to know why. My mother used it on us. A:  Research has proven that using baby powder is similar to exposing your child to exhaust or second-hand smoke. Those tiny airborne particles can damage the delicate, developing lungs. There are safer products for your baby’s skin. Q:  I have acne and I want to know what ingredients I should avoid. A:  According to Skin Deep Cosmetic Database you should avoid those that contain Triclosan, Parabens, and PEG since they are known to be toxic. Q:  My cuticles are always jagged and hard. What is the best treatment for that? A:  Rather than cutting your cuticles, try soaking your nails in warm olive oil or coconut oil for about 15 minutes and then massage the oil into the nail and nailbed, gently pushing back the cuticles. Repeat this weekly. It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals to keep your nails healthy. If you have a skin care or makeup question please send it to sandra.smith315@gmail.com. Views:]]>