SKIN LIGHTENING

WELCOME!

2019-11-13T02:12:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for help and advice on skin lightening or skin whitening, you have come to the right place.

Uneven pigmentation affects many people the world over, regardless of ethnic background or skin colour. Skin either appears lighter or darker than normal; it could be blotchy, have uneven areas, patches of grey or brown discolouration or even freckling.

If you have skin pigmentation problems, this could be because your body produces either too much or too little melanin. Melanin has two components that combine to create various skin tones. Eumelanin produces a range of brown skin and hair color, while pheomelanin gives a yellow to reddish hue.

Increased melanin production — also known as hyperpigmentation — is often referred to as melasma, chloasma or solar lentigenes.

Aside from sun exposure and hormones, hyperpigmentation can be caused by skin damage, such as remnants of blemishes, wounds or rashes. This is especially true for those with darker skin tones.

The most typical cause of darkened areas of skin, brown spots or areas of discolouration is sun exposure without using a SPF sunblock or sunscreen.

Thankfully there are many products on the market to help with skin bleaching, skin whitening or skin lightening - so whatever you call it - there is a cream or gel that can help you.

2010-09-12T20:53:00.000-07:00

NATURAL WAYS TO LIGHTEN YOUR SKIN

Dark spots, and freckles, and skin-damage - oh my! Looking to lighten your complexion? Every shade of skin is beautiful, but as we grow older our skin tone can change. Freckles may appear, dark spots can arise, and skin may not be as light as it once was. So, if you're still not ready to embrace your dark side, read on for a few natural whitening tips and tricks.

Use Sunblock

One of the easiest ways to stay fair is to use sunblock on a daily basis. Find a moisturizer that includes an SPF of 15 or higher and use it every morning after washing your face. Sunblock not only prevents your skin from getting darker, but also blocks harmful UV rays that can cause cancer and premature aging. Remember your hands when applying sunblock, as they are a prime area for age spots.

Exfoliate

Exfoliating once a week will remove dead skin cells to lighten and brighten your skin. Mix two tablespoons oatmeal and two tablespoons brown sugar with a quarter cup of milk, and stir until a paste forms. Gently scrub your face, rinse, and moisturize.

Make a Mask

A homemade mask is a great way to lighten your skin and a good excuse to kick back on the couch. Try using one once a week. Use one tablespoon of each of the following: sandalwood paste, lemon juice, tomato juice, and cucumber juice. Mix them all together to form a paste. Spread the mixture on your face and wait until it dries. Rinse and moisturize for a natural glow.

Licorice Extract

Licorice extract contains glabridin, a component that acts as a natural skin whitener. Apply a thin layer of the extract morning and evening, after you wash your face and before you moisturize. Licorice extract can be found at any health food store or ordered online. Be sure to store the bottle in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness. Note: test a small amount on the back of your arm before using on your face to be sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

Remember to love your skin no matter what color it is. It is a part of who you are and that's what makes you beautiful and unique.

SKIN LIGHTENING NATURALLY

2010-08-22T22:44:00.000-07:00

Here is an interesting video demo of natural skin lightening by using lemon juice. Those of you looking for skin brightening or skin bleaching solutions may like to try this as a natural alternative.

SKIN-SAFE TIPS

2010-07-19T00:40:00.000-07:00

Take these skin-safe tips from our skin lightening site to heart. The nation's top dermatologists advise following these rules to preserve your dark skin's smooth, rich tone:

Stick With a Simple and Safe Skin Care Routine.

Cleanse your face daily — as little as once a day if it's dry, up to three times if your goal is to remove excess oil. Gentle treatment is key for any skin type — avoid abrasive cleansers or irritating cleansing puffs or loofahs. And use moisturizer only if your face feels dry without it.

Pick the Best Products for Your Skin Type.

Experts' favorites are nothing fancy — drugstore brands will usually do — but use products designed for your skin type. Favor products for sensitive skin, especially if your skin is dry — products with harsh ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can wreak havoc on certain skin types. Want to try something new on for size? Go ahead, but use it sparingly at first.

Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer.

Darker skin does provide some protection from the sun's UV rays, but don't count on it alone. Skin cancer is less common, but can be more deadly, in those with darker skin. Begin each day by applying a sunscreen or moisturizer with an SPF 15 to 30. And reapply sun protection often while you're in direct sunlight.

Mind Your Skin When You're Taking Certain Medications.

Many drugs increase sun sensitivity, making it especially important to apply sunscreen or avoid the sun altogether. Among these medications are birth control pills, antibiotics, acne medicines and cancer drugs. But there are many others, too. Ask your doctor if your medicine makes the list.

Get Help in a Hurry When Your Skin's in Distress.

Whether your problem is acne or another condition, it's much easier to prevent problems from lingering if you address them promptly. A trip to the dermatologist might save your skin — and even save you money by preventing you from purchasing a panoply of products to wage the battle against the condition.

Avoid the Common Makeup Mistakes.

Match your makeup with your skin tone for a natural look. "Makeup made especially for women of color has come a long way," says dermatologist Wendy Roberts, M.D., who adds there's nothing wrong with relatively cheap drugstore brands. Have dry skin? Oil-based makeup is best. And for acne-prone, oily skin, water-based is the way to go.

Seek Out a Specialist for Prescription Therapies or Cosmetic Surgery.

When you want more advanced skin care than you can apply yourself at home, there are professional treatments that might help, both low- and high-tech. Whether you're thinking about a prescription acne drug, facial peel, microdermabrasion, laser treatment or other approach, ask around for an expert in treating dark skin. In inexperienced hands, these more complex skin therapies can end up ruining your look rather than rejuvenating it.

BEAUTY TIPS FOR DARK SKIN

2010-06-19T00:29:00.000-07:00

Our skin lightening sites brings you another article - this time it is about beauty tips for those with dark skin.

Black skin (people from Africa, Native Australians, African-Americans, Caribaeans, Other Islands) where people have darker skin than northern European people, have an increased amount of melanin in their skin. Melanin is the pigment in the skin that protects the skin from sunlight. Melanin is the reason why black people stay younger looking than white skinned people. The melanin pigment in the skin protects it from the sunlight by slowing down the ageing process. The down-side is that, as black people age, their skin often becomes irregularly pigmented. This shows up as dark patches on the skin. Irregular pigmentation can also be caused by inflammation. If an area of the skin becomes inflamed or red from an insect bite or from an acne pimple, a brown area can be left behind until the redness or inflammation subsides.

The secret to black and dark skin beauty is to understand the many undertones found in darker skin. It's important to know your own skin and choose shades that best complement your natural tones. Black women skin care is just as easy to follow as any other skin care. Different types of skin simply use different skin care products. Learning what products work best on darker skin is the first step in treating your skin.

There are products for black skin care. African American skin care is sometimes different than for Caucasians and Asians since a black skin care product needs heavy oil that penetrates deep into the skin and leaves skin healthy but not abundantly oily. Emu oil products work best. African American skin tends to loose elasticity very easily resulting in loose skin, stretch marks and fat globs around the waist, thighs, stomach, breasts and face and neck area.

Skin lighteners or bleaching creams that contain steroids can cause permanent skin damage including permanent redness, thinning and blood vessel streaks. Also avoid skin lighteners or bleaching creams containing mercury as this is a poison. Tretinoin applied daily for many months will treat irregular pigmentation. Daily use of sunscreen will help prevent irregular pigmentation form occuring. Jessner's solution applied once a week for several months to the dark areas will lighten hyperpigmentation. Products which contain hydroquinone will lighten dark areas.

Reveal a bright, even skin tone with Lightening Gel. This proven-effective microemulsified gel lightens hyperpigmentation (age, brown patches) with Azelaic Acid, Arbutin and Mulberry. It minimizes sun and environmental damage, while counteracting skin irregularities and discoloration for a brighter, evenly toned complexion.
5 star product!

FIVE BEAUTY MYTHS EXPOSED

2010-05-15T00:32:00.000-07:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Myth #1: Pores open and close

A pore is an opening in the skin that allows sebum to flow to the surface in order to keep the skin supple and moisturised. Pores do not open or close. If your pores are appearing larger, it is most likely due to dead skin cells that have built up on the pore. This is why exfoliation is important. Exfoliation helps to buff away dead skin cells and keeps the pores looking smaller and cleaner. Picking and squeezing on your pores can also stretch and scar them so that they appear larger than they should.

Myth #2: Oily skin should be dried out

Oil production is very important for the maintenance of our skin. If you really have an oily skin, it is very important not to dry it out, but keep it balanced and clean. Hydration and oiliness are very separate. Just because your skin is oily does not mean that it needs no moisture. We put moisture on the skin to help it stay supple as it receives oil and water from the inside. Your skin should never feel tight or dry or burn after washing. In addition, anything that burns or ‘cools’ the skin is damaging it.

Myth #3: Not everyone can wear red lipstick

Anyone can wear red lipstick if they know what shade of red to choose. The Marilyn Monroe red is best on light skin tones with light eyes. If you have a medium complexion, you will look best in brown reds. Warm brown reds suit olive tones and cool brown reds and burgundies for darker and red toned skins.

Myth #4: A shiny t-zone means oily skin

The t-zone is the area across your forehead that points down your nose towards your chin. If your cheeks develop a shine within a couple of hours of applying makeup, then yes you have oily skin – however, shine in the t-zone indicates a normal skin. Dry skins know that they are dry and oily skins know that they are oily. Those who have normal skins tend to think that they should be one or the other – not so – check your cheeks and you will know for sure.

Myth #5: It is best to use products that are hypoallergenic

The American FDA requires that all products sold as cosmetics go through some kind of allergy testing. Unfortunately, these tests are conducted or overseen by the companies themselves and are not regulated. From a regulatory point of view, this means that the products - when tested - did not produce allergic reactions in most subjects. So technically, all products are ‘hypoallergenic’. Be aware that this is a marketing tool when used to promote a product and that it does not guarantee that you will not be sensitive to it.

Reveal a bright, even skin tone with Lightening Gel. This proven-effective microemulsified gel lightens hyperpigmentation (age, brown patches) with Azelaic Acid, Arbutin and Mulberry. It minimizes sun and environmental damage, while counteracting skin irregularities and discoloration for a brighter, evenly toned complexion.

TIPS FOR TIRED AND PUFFY EYES

2010-04-19T00:15:00.000-07:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Many of us suffer from puffy, baggy eyes and some of us spend a small fortune on finding a solution – however, before you spend a hundred dollars on that new fandangled cream – why not try the oldest puffy eye remedy known to man? The humble tea-bag!

The eyes are not only the windows to your soul, they are also the focal point f your face, therefore you should take good care of them. Having tired, baggy eyes can add years to your age, while sparkling ones can brighten your face and give you a more youthful appearance. Remember that it is vital to care for the delicate area around them and tea or tea bags can help enormously.

Chances are that if your body is tired, your eyes are sure to show it. Swollen, red or puffy eyes are indicators of fatigue and it is important to be aware of the root cause – do not simply treat the symptoms without also trying to determine and resolve the cause.

If you would like to try the efficiency of teabags on puffy eyes, pour boiling water over two teabags and brew the ‘tea’ for 5 minutes. Next, take the tea bags and squeeze out the liquid – then place both tea bags into your kitchen's freezer. You need the bags to become cool, but not frozen. Keep them in the freezer for around 15 minutes, then take them out, lie down, relax and place the tea bags over your eyes. Leave them in position for 15 minutes and turn them over half way through.

Afterwards, remove the tea bags, dispose of them and rinse your face with cool water to remove any tea stains. Make sure you rinse off any residue carefully with a cold damp tissue or face cloth.

This remedy works well with warm (not hot) teabags. You should again select a comfortable spot in your home, place a towel where your head will be resting to prevent leaking and staining and lie down. Position one black tea bag over each eye and relax for just five minutes. Deep breathing will increase your oxygen intake while you rest and promote increased energy levels.

When choosing teabags, try using those for green tea. Green tea’s rich polyphenol content makes it a great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. However, the tannins in the caffeine are what really constrict your skin to make it look tighter. Therefore, the cheaper the teabag the higher tannin content and probably the more ‘effective’ the depuffing process. You will be amazed at the wide-open look your eyes will have after these treatments.

DEALING WITH OILY SKIN

2010-03-14T23:16:00.000-07:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Just when you think you have your skin all under control - it changes on you. For example, the oiliness of your skin can change from day to day, depending on the sun, the wind, the time of year, your hormones and the weather. However, whether your skin is oily all year round or just in the summertime, it is not welcome. Oily skin appears excessively thick and dull, usually with coarse pores and a sprinkling of pimples. This is because the oil glands of the skin are overactive and oil builds up in the skin, making it prone to the formation of blackheads.

Many people do not have oily skin but a combination skin, meaning that it is oily in some areas but dry or just normal in others. While oily skin has its disadvantages, it has the main advantage that it ages at a slower rate than other skin types.

Genetic causes are at play in the case of oily skin as well as diet, hormones, cosmetics, pregnancy (in the case of women), contraceptives, and environmental conditions like a hot and humid climate. Since high levels of hormones, especially testosterone, make the oil glands over active, oily skin is more frequently seen in teenagers. The same reason accounts for oily skin conditions in women who are pregnant or going through the menopause.

Regular cleansing with hot water and soap is needed to prevent oil build up and clogging of pores. However, take care not to use harsh soaps and other products that over-dry your skin. If you use dehydrating products on the skin, the upper layer goes dry and shrinks, resulting in obstruction in the flow of oil through the pores. The result is the clogging of the pores.

Wash the skin with hot water (but not burning hot) rather than tepid water. Hot water dissolves the oil more readily. Do not use cleansing creams – opt for an antibacterial cleansing lotion or a mild, medicated soap. After cleansing, treat the skin with a natural oil-free moisturizer.

If your skin is too oily and you are under 30, you should do four cleansings daily and should use little or no moisturizer. Use your fingertips to massage your face well during the cleansing.

A clay or mud mask can help bring the oily condition of the skin to normal. For sensitive skin, white or rose-coloured clays are better as a mask. Women, before wearing make up, may use an antiseptic day cream that reduces the activity of the oil glands.

If you have oily skin, a diet rich in protein but lacking sugar, fluids, and salt is recommended. Vegetables and fruits are necessary; especially important being foods that are rich in vitamin B2. These include whole grains, beans, nuts and royal jelly. Use minimum oil in your diet and abstain from alcohol, soft drinks, sugary drinks, chocolate and other junk food. Talk to you doctor or dermatologist for more help with oily skin problems.

FIVE THINGS ABOUT DRY SKIN

2010-02-14T23:09:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Our skin needs moisture to smooth and supple, but retaining moisture is not always easy.

Dry skin, also called xerosis, is a common problem although it is not usually a serious issue. Factors which contribute to dry and cracked skin include:

• Inherited factors.

• Metabolic factors such as an underactive thyroid gland, or excessive weight loss.

• Increasing age, resulting in decreased natural lubrication.

• Cool weather, especially when windy.

• Air conditioning.

• Excessive bathing, showering or swimming, especially in strongly chlorinated hot or cold water.

• Contact with soap, detergents and solvents.

• Frictional irritation and chapping.

Chronic or severe dry skin problems do exist and may require a dermatologist's advice; however, for mild cases of xerosis there are steps that can be taken to improve the skin’s condition.

Locate

The fact that we may have oily facial skin does not mean that the rest of us is as lucky. Dry skin is most common on the lower legs, arms, flanks (sides of the abdomen) and thighs. Locate these dry areas and embark on a plan to remedy their condition.

Showering and bathing

Hot water dries out the skin, so try to use lukewarm water when showering and bathing. It is also a good idea to limit the time you spend in the shower to an absolute minimum. Bathing provides the skin with moisture temporarily, but it removes the skin's oily lipid layer and in the end causes more moisture loss than gain.

Avoid rubbing the skin too harshly with sponges or washcloths and when towelling, do not rub the skin. Instead, blot or pat dry so there is still some moisture left on the surface. Next, apply a moisturizer.

Products

Steer clear of harsh soaps that dry the skin. Recommended soaps are Dove, Olay and Basis. Even better than soap are skin cleansers such as Cetaphil Lotion or Oilatum. When moisturising, water-based lotions are best cosmetically, however oil-based creams are more effective in trapping moisture. If you have very dry skin, apply oil to the still moist skin, then apply a moisturizing cream at bedtime.

Protect

All areas that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, hands and back of the neck should have a moisturiser containing sun block or a sunscreen of SPF 30 applied daily.

Laundry

For laundry, try using non-biological washing powder or liquid and avoid using fabric softeners, especially in the dryer. Keep irritating fabrics away from your skin. Do not wear clothing made of wool or other ‘scratchy’ fabrics and use good quality cotton percale sheets on your bed.

If you feel itchy without a visible rash or if dryness and itching are preventing you from sleeping you should consult your physician. Additionally, if you have any open cuts or sores from scratching or if your home care measures do not relieve your dryness and itching, you should definitively seek medical advice.

EXERCISE YOUR FACE FOR BEAUTY

2010-01-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

In India face exercises have been practiced through yoga for many centuries. It is well known that the benefits of facial exercises are different from those of skincare products. Skin creams and lotions act just on the skin, while to exercise the face means to work its muscles and have a well textured, toned and healthier looking complexion. To see for yourself, just follow a few simple exercises for 10 minutes daily.

The eye exercises

Eyes are the windows to our soul - unfortunately the skin around them is the thinnest and most fragile skin found on the body. As the eyes are the central feature that most people focus on when talking to us, let’s start with a few exercises to improve this area.

Gently place your fingers underneath your eyes and use the muscles of the lower lids to lift the weight of your fingers, then release. Do this 20 times, ideally twice a day. Next, sit upright with your eyes closed and relaxed. While keeping your eyes closed, first look down and then look up as far as possible. Repeat 10 times. Finally, looking straight ahead with your eyes open, look up then down, while keeping your head still. Then look left and right - repeat 10 times.

Lip exercises

Purse your lips together then lift them towards your nose and keep them there for 5 counts, relax and repeat 5 times. Next, keep your lips closed and your teeth together. Smile as broadly as possible without opening your lips and hold for 5 counts. As you relax the smile, turn your lips into a pointed kiss. Keep it there for 5 counts and relax - repeat 10 times.

Cheeks

Have a relaxed smile with your lips closed and then suck in your cheeks toward and on to your teeth. Hold this for 10 counts, relax and repeat 10 times. Keeping your teeth and lips closed, blow air under your top lip and hold it there for 10 counts, then move it to your left cheek side, hold for 10, to your lower lip, hold for 10 and then to your right cheek side while holding it for a count of 10. Repeat 5 times.

The forehead

The area on the forehead can easily become lined and full of wrinkles and facial exercises can be a great help.

Frown as much as possible and try to bring your eyebrows over your eyes while pulling the eyebrows toward one another. Then lift your eyebrow as far as possible while opening your eyes as wide as you can. Repeat 5 times.

Neck exercises

Sit up, tilt your head back and look at the ceiling - while keeping your lips closed start a chewing movement. You will feel the muscles working in your neck and throat area. Repeat 20 times.

While in this position you can try another simple neck exercise by puckering your lips together into a kiss – next, stretch the kiss as if you were trying to kiss the ceiling. Keep your lips puckered for 10 counts, then relax, bring your head back to normal and repeat 5 times. These are a great anti-double chin exercises.

STUCK IN A BEAUTY RUT?

2009-12-14T19:57:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Has your look not changed in the last five years? Since high school perhaps?

Are you still buying the same shades of lipstick, blusher and eye shadow that you have been using for years? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are stuck in a beauty rut.

Those who find themselves following the same daily routine when applying makeup should ask themselves – am I fed up with my looks? Am I bored by my make-up routine? Am I a little out of step with the times? If the answer to any of these questions is also a resounding ‘yes’ – then it is time for a break.

You have to recognise that two major things have changed in the last few years – one is your looks and the other is fashion – to ignore these issues and continue with the same routine, colours and finishes day after day, simply doesn’t do you any favours.

Your makeup should complement, not fight, your age. For instance, if you have been wearing a pinkish foundation thinking that it gives you a youthful glow, it is time to switch to one of the newer foundations with more natural-looking yellow undertones.

Throw away that dark eyebrow pencil – these days, an eyeliner brush dipped in a dry, dark brown eye shadow is a more subtle way to fill in and define brows. It is also time for your frosted lipsticks to go into retirement. Switch to a shimmery lipstick or a gloss that is sheer enough to let your lips show through.

If you don’t know where to start, go through a few magazines and look at the latest trends in make-up. Cut out any pictures that inspire you. Look for images of models that have a similar complexion, hair and eye colour to yours and draw inspiration from what you see.

Next, visit your favourite makeup counter and ask a makeup artist to show you how to enhance your best features. This is a great time to experiment with new colours and formulas that you would not ordinarily try on your own. Do not be afraid to ask questions so that you know exactly how to re-create your new, up to date look at home.

Updating your make-up means buying colours and finishes outside of your comfort zone. For instance, if you are still using powder eye shadows, switch to cream shadows - they are softer and do not crease. You may also need to change the way you do certain things – for example, we used to think that a thin eyebrow arch was best, but nowadays the brow shape is more natural and soft.

Browse magazines for images of hairstyles too. Ask trusted friends and family members for ideas and advice on what they feel would suit you. If you have long hair and are loathed to cut it short, perhaps a funky updo would re-vamp your look without the need for scissors. At sites like Hair Updos you’ll find the best hair updos images so that you can begin to experiement.

Many women, at some time in their life, get into a hair and makeup rut and although they want a new look, they tend to hold on to old-fashioned, comfortable and ‘safe’ ideas.

However, to update your look, you must throw away the old routines and products and open yourself to discovering a new, modern and beautiful you.

LOOK 10 YEARS YOUNGER!

2009-11-13T04:21:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Sure, we all want an even complexion and brighter skin, but I think it is fair to say that there is a general obsession with most people over 40 with staying young. There are make-over shows, many anti-ageing cosmetics and people willing to spend a small fortune on cosmetic surgery to delay the process of ageing as long as possible. However, you don’t have to break the bank to look and feel your best. Here are ten easy and inexpensive ways to take years off of your appearance and keep it that way.

Dazzle them with brilliance – As we age our teeth tend to discolour due to the many cups of tea and coffee we have enjoyed and for some due to tobacco too. Brighten your smile by using over the counter tooth whiteners or ask your dentist to help you out with professional grade options.

Moisturise - Dry skin looks dull and lackluster. Use a moisturizer on your face (including an eye cream) and also on your hands and body. It is especially important that your hands remain soft and supple as they are great at giving your age away! Keep some hand cream handy at your desk, in the car or by the sink. This rule applies to men as much as it does to women.

Stay in the shade - We all know that the sun is dangerously damaging to your skin, so make sure to protect yourself.

Maintain your brows! Be sure to keep your brows neatly trimmed, especially between the eyes! Men should pay particular attention to this as they grow older and their eyebrows seem to take on a life of their own.

Say no to facial hair! Some people like their beards and goatees and that is okay, but if you want to look younger, you’ll achieve that more effectively if you’re clean shaven. Ladies…. head for the bleach!

Dark circles under your eyes - It is proven that you can fight dark circles by getting a good night’s sleep and eating well. Also try an under-eye concealer.

Nose and ears – The cruel reality for men is that hairs begin sprouting from the most unlikely places as they grow older. You can pick up an ear and nose hair trimmer at your local chemist for just a few Dirhams and they are simple and easy to use.

Wear colour! Both men and women (but especially men) tend to wear darker coloured clothes as they get older. Try to brighten up your wardrobe with a few splashes of colour in a shade that complements your skin and eye colour.

From studious to stunning - Contact lenses will help you to look years younger and if your budget stretches that far, consider lasik surgery to permanently correct vision problems.

Take a hike! Even if it is just a walk around the block or a few minutes on an exercise bike, try to incorporate a little exercise into your daily routine. Exercise will help you maintain good posture, keep your weight in check, lessen stress (which causes wrinkles), and boost blood flow (which keeps your whole body well oxygenated), not to mention that it keeps you fit!

FRUITY BEAUTY

2009-11-13T04:09:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

You can use basic ingredients found around your home to create simple yet effective facemasks. Here is a collection of recipes suitable for many different skin types.

Facemask for oily skin

1/2 tsp lemon juice

1 egg whites

1 tsp honey

1/2 cup strawberries

2 drops eucalyptus oil or jojoba oil (optional)

Blend the above ingredients, apply and leave on the skin for 10 minutes. The juices in strawberries and lemons contain natural astringents.

Facemask for normal skin

1 carrot

1tsp olive oil

Place both ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Apply to the skin, wait 15 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.

Facemask for dry skin

2 tsp glycerin

1 x capsule vitamin E

Prick the E capsule and squeeze the contents into the glycerin, mix well, apply to your clean face. Leave on for 15 minutes, rinse off with cold water.

Facemask for combination skin

6 rose petals

2 tbsps rosewater

1 tbsp natural yogurt

1 tbsp honey

Soak the rose petals in a little water. Crush the petals in a bowl then add the rosewater, yogurt and honey. Mix well and apply to the skin. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse.

Facemask for sensitive, sunburned, chapped or irritated skin

1 cup natural yogurt

½ cup oatmeal

Mix the ingredients together and apply to the skin for 15 minutes. Wash off mask with a warm washcloth. This soothing mask works well on other skin types as well. For oily skin, add a couple drops of lime juice. For dry skin, mix in a couple tablespoons of honey.

Facemask for exfoliation

3 tbsp sugar

4 tbsp warm water

Melt sugar in warm water. Make sure granules are dissolved, otherwise they may tear your skin. Apply to the face and leave for 5 minutes. Gently massage around the skin to exfoliate. Rinse. Follow this with an application of your normal moisturizer.

Facemask for all skin types

1 tbsp honey

1 egg yolk

1 tbsp yogurt

1/2 tsp almond oil

Mix all ingredients and apply to the skin. Allow to dry for about 15 - 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Honey stimulates and smoothes, egg and almond oil penetrate and moisturize. Yogurt refines the pores.

The aspirin facemask

6 uncoated aspirin tablets

3 or 4 drops of warm water

Mix water and crushed aspirins together. If mixture is too dry, add water one drop at a time. Apply the thick paste to your skin. Leave on for 15 to 20 minutes during which time the paste will dry and begin to crumble. As you wash off the facemask with warm water, use a circular motion to gently exfoliate the skin. Pat dry.

The BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) content in the humble aspirin is a powerful agent against blemishes. This combination mask and scrub has received many positive reviews on the message boards of www.acne.org and is great for pimple prone skin. Those with an allergy to aspirin or BHAs should not use this once weekly mask.

MELASMA - AN IN DEPTH LOOK

2009-11-13T03:50:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Melasma is often referred to as "Chloasma faciei" or 'The mask of pregnancy' when it appears in pregnant women, is a tan or dark skin discolouration. Although it can affect anyone, melasma is particularly common in women, especially pregnant women and often appears on women who are taking oral or patch contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medications.

It is prevalent in both men and women of Native American descent (it usually appears on the forearms) and in men and women of German/Russian and Jewish descent (where it presents on the face).The symptoms of melasma are dark, irregular patches commonly found on the upper cheek, nose, lips, upper lip and forehead. These patches often develop gradually over time. Melasma does not cause any other symptoms beyond the cosmetic discolouration.

Melasma is thought to be the stimulation of melanocytes or pigment-producing cells by the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone to produce more melanin pigments when the skin is exposed to sun. Women with a light brown skin type who are living in regions with intense sun exposure are particularly susceptible to developing this condition.

The incidence of melasma also increases in patients with thyroid disease. It is thought that the overproduction of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) brought on by stress can cause outbreaks of this condition. Other rare causes of melasma include allergic reaction to medications and cosmetics.

The discoloration usually disappears spontaneously over a period of several months after giving birth or stopping the oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy.

Treatments to hasten the fading of the discolored patches include:

Topical depigmenting agents, such as hydroquinone (HQ) either in over-the-counter (2%) or prescription (4%) strength. HQ is a chemical that inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin.

Tretinoin, an acid that increases skin cell (keratinocyte) turnover. This treatment cannot be used during pregnancy.

Azelaic acid (20%), thought to decrease the activity of melanocytes.

Facial peel with alpha hydroxyacids or chemical peels with glycolic acid.

Laser treatment. A Wood's lamp test should be used to determine whether the melasma is epidermal or dermal. If the melasma is dermal, Fraxel laser has been shown in studies to provide improvement in many patients. However, intense pulsed light will actually darken the spots. Dermal melasma is generally unresponsive to most treatments, and has only been found to lighten with products containing mandelic acid (such as Triluma cream) or Fraxel laser.

In all of these treatments the effects are gradual and a strict avoidance of sunlight is required. The use of broad-spectrum sunscreens with physical blockers, such as titanium dioxide and zinc dioxide is preferred over that with only chemical blockers. This is because UV-A, UV-B and visible lights are all capable of stimulating pigment production.

Cosmetic cover-ups can also be used to reduce the appearance of melasma.

WHITENING SKIN PRODUCTS & ALLERGIES

2009-11-13T03:28:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Almost all cosmetics, including those for lightening skin, can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Often the first sign of a reaction is a mild redness and irritation. There is no list of ingredients that can be guaranteed not to cause allergic reactions, so consumers who are prone to allergies should pay careful attention to what they use on their skin.

Because of the almost limitless combinations in all sorts of mixtures and formulations, it is virtually impossible to know if, when, or how anyone's skin will react to any skin lightening product.

Terminology:

Terminology related to "allergenic" conditions and some other terms, as you will soon see, can be totally meaningless when it comes to cosmetics. Some of the more common terms that consumers should be aware of include:

• Natural: implies that ingredients in the skin whitening cream are extracted directly from plants or animal products as opposed to being produced synthetically. There is no basis in fact or scientific legitimacy to the notion that products containing natural ingredients are good for the skin.

• Hypoallergenic: implies that products making this claim are less likely to cause allergic reactions. There are no prescribed scientific studies required to substantiate this claim.

• Dermatologist-tested sensitivity tested, allergy tested, or nonirritating carry no guarantee that they won't cause skin reactions.

• Alcohol Free: traditionally meant that certain skin whitening products do not contain ethyl alcohol (or grain alcohol). Cosmetic products, however, may contain other alcohols, such as cetyl, stearyl, cetearyl, or lanolin, which are known as fatty alcohols.

• Fragrance Free: implies that a cosmetic product so labeled has no perceptible odor. Fragrance ingredients may be added to a fragrance-free cosmetic to mask any offensive odor originating from the raw materials used, but in a smaller amount than is needed to impart a noticeable scent.

• Noncomodogenic: suggests that products do not contain common pore-clogging ingredients that could lead to acne.

• Shelf Life (Expiration Date): the amount of time for which a cosmetic product is good under normal conditions of storage and use, depending on the product's composition, packaging, preservation, etc. Expiration dates are, for practical purposes, a rule of thumb, and a product may expire long before that date if it has not been stored and properly handled.

• Cruelty Free: implies that products have not been tested on animals. Most ingredients used in cosmetics have at some point been tested on animals so consumers may want to look for "no new animal testing," to get a more accurate indication.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids:

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) have become widely used in recent years. AHAs are derived from fruit and milk sugars, and are among the popular ingredients that attract customers with their claims to reduce wrinkles and age spots, and help repair sun-damaged skin. It is suggested that the consumer take precautions with AHA and BHA products:

• Test any AHA/BHA-containing product on a small area of skin before applying to a larger area.

• Avoid the sun when possible.

• Use an effective sunscreen when using an AHA-containing product, even if you haven't used the product that day.

• Follow use instructions on the label.

• Do not exceed recommended applications.

• Do not use on infants and children.

SKIN LIGHTENING PRODUCTS INGREDIENTS

2009-11-13T02:34:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

There are some excellent lightening products available which are known either as skin lighteners, brighteners and whiteners. These products will fade dark patches and reduce the appearance of discolorations. Some creams and gels are safer and more effective than others so it pays to read up on the topic.

Here is a list of commonly found ingredients in skin bleaching or skin lightening products:

Hydroquinone has been used for many years. There are some suggestions that the long term use of this compound can be carcinogenic and its availability is being restricted.

Kojic Acid is a by-product of manufacturing sake, a Japanese rice wine. It is used as a natural alternative to hydroquinone, but has been shown to irritate some people’s skin.

Alpha-Arbutin is an advanced, highly effective naturally derived synthetic lightening compound, suitable for most skin types.

Arbutin or Beta Arbutin is also known as ‘Bearberry Extract’ (from the Uva Ursi plant) and is up to 10 times less effective than Alpha Arbutin. Arbutin / Beta Arbutin is a cheap extract to manufacture and been shown to irritate some people’s skin. This ingredient is common in lots of cosmetic brands.

Parabens are chemical preservatives, including butylparaben, propylparaben, methylparaben, and ethylparaben. These are widely used in cosmetics, but they have also been thought to be carcinogenic.

Mercury is a basic chemical element. In cosmetics, it was used as a preservative and a skin whitener. Mercury is highly toxic to humans and can cause cancer and many other nasties. It is strongly advised that you completely avoid any cosmetic product containing mercury.

MISBEHAVING PORES

2009-11-13T01:53:00.000-08:00

The Skin Lightening website brings you another skin-care article...

Mirror, mirror on the wall – who has the largest pores of all?

For many of us, enlarged pores are a daily cosmetic annoyance and an unpleasant fact of life.

Pores are the tiny passages used by the oil produced in our skin’s sebum glands to reach the surface. There are approximately 300,000 oil glands in human skin and the highest concentrations of them are on the face, chest and back. These glands produce up to one ounce of oil daily!

This regular dose of oil is very necessary, however because it forms a protective layer over the skin that prevents moisture loss and helps to keep our skin soft and resilient. It also prevents injury and environmental damage.

Pores enlarge during puberty, when oil glands in our skin begin to increase the amount of oil they produce. Often, these pores are much more noticeable in those with oily skin, but even women with dry complexions can suffer from large pores within the dreaded T-zone formed by the forehead, nose and chin.

The good news is that there are ways to minimise their appearance and smooth out the complexion.

The challenge is to maintain the right balance between the activity of sebaceous glands and the actual needs of your skin. Essentially, problems start when pores have to deal with more oil than they can handle. Pores expand under the pressure of excessive oil flow, become more visible and, once opened, do not shrink back permanently.

Keeping pores clean is the first thing you need to do if you want to make them less noticeable and prevent them from increasing in size. When oil binds with dirt and dead skin cells, pores become clogged and stretch. To prevent this, keep oil under control, use gentle and effective cleansers and exfoliate regularly.

Apply moisturiser only where essential, many just need to apply it on their cheeks, neck and around the eye area. Of course, this is not quite so feasible in a country where sun protection is required all year round. If you have to make a choice between wearing sun protection and minimising the size of your pores, SPF should undoubtedly take priority.

The jury is still out when it comes to the use of alcohol based toners and astringents. Some beauty therapists feel that using these products may have a temporary 'tightening' effect on pores, but that this is extremely short-lived. The alcohol in these products causes the capillaries to dilate and the minute erectile muscles of the pores to tighten, making pores appear temporarily smaller. However, harsh astringents also encourage oil glands to over-produce oil, which leads to an increase in the size of pores.

Changing the way you apply make-up can also help to camouflage the appearance of large pores. To create the illusion of a pore less complexion apply foundation, concealer, powder and blusher in a downward motion, if not you will emphasize pores by pushing colour up and into them. Also, when choosing a foundation, opt for an oil-free type that will not overload your face's natural 'oil wells' with yet more oil.

AGE SPOTS AND YOU

2009-11-13T01:50:00.000-08:00

The Lightening Skin website brings you another skin-care article...

Age spots are also referred to as liver spots, sun spots, or lentigo. They are flat, tan, brown, or dark brown spots that appear on the body of aging people, and are especially fond of the area on the back of the hands – although they can also appear on forearms, neck, chest, legs and the face. As you age, the skin is less able to regenerate from sun exposure and liver spots become very common, particularly in those who enjoy being out in the sunshine. They have also been known to proliferate in some individuals under emotional distress.

In the vast majority of cases, liver spots pose no threat and no treatment is necessary. However, in a very small number of cases, they have been known to obscure the detection of skin cancer.

By their very nature, age spots are collections of melanin (the dark natural pigment of the skin), in the uppermost layer of the skin - the epidermis. Melanin is produced by special cells in the skin called melanocytes. Age spots are flat and they range in size from that of a small pea to a dollar coin. They usually have round outlines and irregular borders. Age spots themselves are not malignant but they do increase the risk of skin cancer to some degree.

The most obvious cause of age spots is overexposure to sun. Prolonged exposure to sunlight activates the melanocytes to produce excess of melanin. Exposure to ultraviolet light is especially more likely to cause age spots. Other causes also play their role in forming age spots - these include poor diet (especially one that is rich in fats), lack of exercise or physical activity, poor liver function and autointoxication.

Some people consider these spots unsightly and wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Removal of these spots is based on the fact that they increase the risk of skin cancer, which, like age spots, is associated with overexposure to solar radiation. Some of the removal treatment methods include freezing, using acids, skin sanding and the use of electric needles. Laser therapy is now being used with greater success than these methods because the laser targets the spots more precisely and does minimum damage to the surrounding skin. In addition, laser treatment is less painful and promises a fast recovery.

For people with fair skin, bleaching solutions like hydroquinone are sometimes used for treating age spots. This chemical, however, causes irritation and reddening of the skin. Bleaching solutions kill melanin and, with time, this leads to fading of the age spots. Use of hydroquinone for treatment also necessitates that the treated skin area be protected completely from exposure to sun.

For people with darker skin kojic acid is used as an alternative treatment solution. Vitamin C products and mandelic acid products are also used to treat age spots. Check with your physician or dermatologist to find out more about preventing and removing age spots.

SUGARY SWEET BEAUTY

2009-11-13T01:46:00.000-08:00

The Lightening Skin website brings you another skin-care article...

In the self-care and beauty industry, the latest craze is to include sugar in skin care products. If you search the internet you will find everything from sugar body scrubs to sugar hair removers. The prices can range from $8.00 to $50.00 plus for each product. How’s that for a product in which the main ingredient can cost you just a few dolours for a huge 2 kg bag!

To enjoy all of the benefits of a sugar based product without shelling out the big bucks, trys these recipes:

Orange Cream Sugar Body Scrub

This recipe is great to remove dead skin and give your skin a healthy glow. The sugar contains glycolic acid and the cream is a source for lactic acid. Avoid irritated or broken skin areas.

Ingredients: ½ cup sugar, 2 TBSP cream or whole milk, 5 drops orange oil, and 1 cup olive, jojoba, or almond oil

Mix sugar, oil and cream together. Add orange oil after main ingredients are completely mixed.

Apply to your body by starting at the feet and working your way up. Massage in a circular motion and leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then shower it off. This recipe is enough to make one full body treatment.

Lemon Head Sugar Body Scrub

This recipe is both cleansing and detoxifying. Lemon is very detoxifying to the body and will also help brighten the skin.

Ingredients: ½ cup sugar, 10 drops lemon oil, or ½ a lemon freshly squeezed, and 1 cup olive, jojoba, or almond oil

Mix all ingredients together. Apply to your body by starting at the feet and working your way up. Massage in a circular motion, then shower it off. This recipe is enough to make one full body treatment.

Facial Cleanser
Ingredients: white or brown sugar, your favorite facial cleanser, witch hazel, and water

Using your favorite daily facial soap, an easy, inexpensive facial scrub can be made by adding sugar. Simply add a teaspoon of either white sugar or brown sugar and massage it gently on your facial skin. Rinse with cool water and spritz your face with a ½ witch hazel and ½ water mixture.

Sugar is a natural and inexpensive way to include alpha-hydroxy acids in your skincare program. It produces glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, which is included in many skincare product lines. Today’s pricey beauty products that include sugar or alpha hydroxy acid, can be created inexpensively right at your kitchen table. You can experience all of the benefits without the inflated price.

FEED YOUR FACE

2009-11-13T01:41:00.000-08:00

The Lightening Skin website brings you another skin-care article...

Does the thought of chocolate make you weak in the knees? Does the mention of banana splits raise your blood temperature? Do you salivate for sugary sweet treats?

Don't worry about the diet - you can indulge recklessly when you use these delicious ingredients for the beauty of your skin.

These sinful ingredients may not be good for your waistline but they can improve the quality and tone of your skin - guilt free. Use this guide to create your own homemade moisturizers, scrubs and face masks, or look for these ingredients in store bought preparations.

Sugar – this makes an effective and sweet body scrub. Brown sugar mixed with a small amount of liquid glycerin or massage oil can be used all over the body. Apply the mixture using small, circular motions to rub it on. The sugar grains will gently remove dry, dead skin while the glycerin or massage oil will ease the application and keep skin soft and supple. You can intensify the sweetness of your body scrub by adding a few drops of essential oils, like vanilla, for a luxurious and relaxing indulgence.

Honey – this is nature’s own anti-bacterial agent. You can add a small amount of liquid soap or glycerin to a few tablespoons of honey for a gentle cleanser that kills bacteria and helps heal scarring. This is great for sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts. Honey also makes an excellent base for a mask and can be used with all of these other ingredients to provide healing and cleansing properties to the formulations. A simple honey and oat cleanser (using fine ground or powdered oats) will both exfoliate and moisturize your skin.

Chocolate - in its sugary form chocolate may not be great for you but real, dark cocoa is an excellent source of antioxidants that fight free radicals, which can cause cancer. The caffeine in chocolate is also useful in de-toxifying skin and has been used to fight cellulite as well as to purify skin. Cocoa butter is a fantastic moisturizer and by adding a few drops of vanilla and cherry essential oils, you can safely indulge while the aromatherapy effects can actually curb your cravings.

Vanilla - this is one of the most popular scents for bathing products. It is wonderfully rich aroma is relaxing and blends well with other scents such as lavender and rose. Adding the essential oils of vanilla to your bath, a moisturizer or scrub will intensify the aromatherapy effects and leave you feeling restful and happy.

Bananas – these fruits are naturally rich in vitamins, potassium and other skin-pleasing nutrients. Nothing could be simpler (or cheaper) than mashing a banana and applying as a mask for soft, smooth skin. Choose a banana that has ripened and soft (but not with black spots).

Adding plain yogurt and honey will soothe sunburned skin and kill germs. If you are allergic to bananas, you should apply a test patch on your skin before applying to the entire face.

So go ransack the cupboards - binge all evening - these delicious beauty treatments will have you feeling cleansed and soothed like no chocolate layer cake ever could!