Your underlying covering of epidermis will be pink. For how long you ask? Well, you will want to avoid facing the world with an unusual looking pink visage, and so it is critical to know what to anticipate. Obviously, the pink color cannot be avoided, yet if it takes eight or ten week to regain your usual skin tone, this little bit of knowledge will go a long way to scheduling your procedure for a period that does not coincide with the family Christmas party, the company picnic, or the vacation to Cancun. The latter is singularly important since that new layer of skin is exceptionally sensitive to sun for almost three to six months, and also the biting winds of winter ought be avoided.

What are the side effects? Every surgery has its list of side effects, and dermabrasion is no different. As a matter of fact, these may include a darkening of the skin, scarring, infection, and even changes in skin color. Some of these side effects may only be temporary, but some may be permanent, and so it is vital to not only know about the risks of the procedure but also know how to obviate them or at least reduce the risks.

Is that normal? This is a question most frequently asked at two o’clock in the morning when a sleepless patient looks at herself in the mirror and wonders if the itching, burning, redness, or scabbing are indeed normal or the early warning signs of something gone wrong. Be certain to ask your specialist exactly what to anticipate, for how long to expect it, and to what extend it will materialize. For example, you will want to know just how red your skin will be. For how long will the scab be on your face, and when can you expect the burning feeling to cease?

Will tone change? It is true that tone may increase or lessen, leaving your skin looking darker or lighter when compared to the surrounding skin of the neck. While darker skin may be treated with bleaching creams, lighter skin will be there to stay and only time and controlled sun exposure may darken it a bit.

What are your credentials? You want to make sure you deal with a surgeon or professional who not only has the schooling to perform the procedure, but also comprehensive knowledge and background.

As you can see, even while dermabrasion is a worthwhile procedure that delivers promised results, it is in fact the deliberate damaging of the top layer of skin, and thus should be undertaken advisedly, and at the hands of a professional. Lamentably, it appears that the market is being flooded with persons who may have undergone a few classes, in some cases not even this is the case, purchased the necessary equipment, and are now underbidding the existing clinics to entice thrifty patients to come to them. Unfortunately, cut rate dermabrasion may also result in cut rate results, and the horror stories that are now circulating on the Internet and that may be seen on TV specials are only too true; please remember that your face is well worth the expense of experience, expertise, and extensive know-how! This is not the time to skimp, save, and pinch pennies.

How do stretch marks occur? When skin is stretched beyond its normal capacity, deep scars that look like stripes appear on the skin. When the skin stretches, tiny fibers under the skin, tear. Basically, when large amounts of weight are gained in a short period of time, stretch marks can appear. Stretch marks can manifest themselves in the abdominal area, arms, legs, buttocks and chest. They’ll be reddish-purple in color in the beginning, but will eventually turn silver in color, which does make them less noticeable.

Believe it or not, treating yourself to a healthy and varied diet will not only help you feel great and watch your figure, it will also contribute to enhanced skin elasticity. Although there isn’t a ‘magic’ combination of foods that will banish stretch marks altogether, include oily fish (like salmon), nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits. Don’t forget to drink at least eight glasses of water a day also to hydrate you and baby from the inside out.

There are many products and treatments alike on the market today that can help to lessen the appearance of stretch marks, while improving the look of the skin in those areas at the same time.

Many specific lotions and creams promise to get rid of stretch marks, but in reality, all they do is to lessen the look of them. Cocoa butter is hailed as one of the best treatments for preventing severe stretch marks. The application of the cocoa butter will aid in keeping the skin moisturized and elastic, which may, in the long run, minimize the severity of stretch marks.

Exfoliation may be an answer to reducing the appearance of stretch marks. It depends on the location of the scar tissue, but removal of dead skin layers to reveal fresh skin underneath can show marked improvement in the effected areas. To exfoliate conveniently at home, use oatmeal or baking soda. Or, if you prefer something scented, there are many prepared formulas on the market today. Follow up with ample moisturizer to keep your skin well-hydrated.

For those of you who are serious about wearing that two-piece swim suit again, cosmetic surgery is a possible option for getting rid of stretch marks. There isn’t any way to repair the torn skin fibers which occur when skin stretches abnormally, but sometimes the stretch marks can be removed surgically. At the same time, the remaining skin can be pulled ‘taut’ and this will improve the look of your skin and minimize the appearance of the affected area. Keep in mind, this is the more expensive method by which to get rid of stretch marks and still, they may not disappear completely.

You can use body paint to create a variety of different art works on the most amazing canvas – human skin. But body painting can take time and it is not uncommon for a session to last as long as 10 to 12 hours. Rough on both artist and model, I’m sure you will agree. These days body painting materials are becoming more user friendly, making it easy to learn how to use body paint with the minimum of fuss.

So practically anybody can use body paint with a little practice and experience. Old fashioned body paints were messy and time consuming to use, making the art of body painting popular with only the very dedicated. Some examples of modern body painting materials that are far easier and less time-consuming to use include:

Markers – These are inexpensive and safe to use but painting with them takes time. If you are learning how to use body paint and have patience go ahead and try them.

Airbrush Make Up – Excellent for speed and very safe, but you will pay the price for these features.

MagicColor and Mehron Face Paints – These aren’t too expensive, the quality is good and they are safe to use.

Textile Acrylics – A practical choice, textile acrylics are reasonably priced, work well and are safe.

Liquid Latex – Interesting materials to work with, and offer a variety of possibilities. Not recommended if you don’t know how to use body paint.

PAX MakeupAdhesive based paint – If you want your artwork to last a long time.

Tempera: Not recommended.

Using markers, like Crayola are a good idea if you want 100% safety. Markers are made for kids so they are fully washable. This makes them ideal for creating translucent effects which look like tattoos. After the paint dries it lasts until you wash it off and won’t peel off or wrinkle. Markers are a good idea if you’re not sure how to use body paint and need a bit of practice and experience.

The main problem with using markers is that the point of the marker is so small. This means it can take a long time to work up to the full design, especially if you are aiming at full bodywork. Try the wider tip markers that make a strip of about a third of an inch. If you don’t know how to use body paint, experiment with the markers first.

Airbrush make-up is a really safe, fast and the most flexible option for body painting. It won’t crack or peel like airbrush acrylics. It can be expensive but are the best choice if you work professionally. Try Kryolan, Dinair or Mehron. If you want to use body paint that’s a cut above the rest, this is your best option.

MagicColor and Mehron Face/Body Paints are made by Ben Nye. These body paints are opaque but are easy to apply and dry quickly. You can use them with an airbrush if you want to use body paint for all over coverage. You will find them in primary colors as well as glitter metallic. Never use body paint colors like red, pink or orange over or around the sensitive eye area. These paints have good staying power but will clean off with ease.

Airbrush textile acrylics are practical and affordable. They are non-toxic and are intended for use on fabric. They offer good staying power and dry quickly but are easy to wash off with soapy water. You can even use a bristle brush when you use body paint. Try Createx and Jurex. Createx is available in iridescent colors that shine when applied. You can use a Pasche airbrush for fine work or a production airbrush for bigger areas.

If you don’t know how to use body paint start with a very thin opaque coat to avoid peeling and flaking. You will find that the paint is a bit thick so thin it down before you use it. Read up on the brush techniques for obtaining different effects at your local library or on the Web.

AGPC makeup is non-toxic and comes off with soap and water. The great news is that is stays on for ages (possibly one to two days!). All you need is a little talc to set the paint. It comes off with a damp sponge. Ask for Airbrush Grade Prosthetic Cosmetic from Michael Davy Film & TV Make Up, in Orlando FL. If you don’t know how to use body paint, you’re probably not ready for an airbrush, yet.

The bad news is: it’s expensive. If you’re working professionally or need perfect staying power it’s an ideal choice. Again, if you don’t know how to use body paint, start with something cheaper and easier to use.

Liquid latex is available in several different colors these days but it’s not a good idea if you don’t know how to use body paint properly. It is less messy than some other kinds of body paint and once it sets (in about 10 minutes) it will stay on. Make sure the skin is shaved first for easier cleaning. If you already know how to use body paint, liquid latex is an option worth considering.

It’s possible to achieve some pretty nice effects using latex. For example, dimensional textures using beads or sand or together with metallic powders. Make sure your model isn’t allergic to latex before starting work. Liquid latex is not recommended if you don’t know how to use body paint properly.

Tempera is a bad choice for body painting, even if you know how to use body paint with panache! Why? Tempera is cheap and safe and it looks great wet BUT once dry it becomes powdery and flakes off quickly. This can be very messy and it looks bad. However if you are a pure beginner and don’t know how to use body paint and want some practice, it may be a cheap starter option.

So, you know how to use body paint and even have talent but where are you going to find a canvas? If you are (really lucky) you might find a friend or a relative willing to let you practice on them (such people are hard to find, so hold onto them if you find them). If you don’t know how to use body paint properly yet, be honest and tell them they will be guinea pigs for a fledgling artist. If your model is under 21 make sure to document their I.D., especially if they look younger.

Another option is to look for models in the personals in your local newspaper. You might scan the general columns. If you can’t afford to pay your model and they are still interested, chances are they’re doing it for fun. This means that you, as the artist, need to make it fun! If you already know how to use body paint it will probably be easier to find willing participants! If you don’t know how to use body paint be honest about it.

Don’t work for too long, make sure you feed your models and play some music in the background. Always make sure the room is heated! Again if you’re a novice and don’t know how to use body paint, make sure your model knows that your technique may not be perfect.

A word or two about males painting females: it may be a good idea to make sure that there are other women around to put your model at ease. If you choose to photograph your work make sure the model gets copies too and that your local photographic store is comfortable developing this kind of print. People who use body paint are generally recognized as artists so you probably won’t have too many problems getting the film developed (we hope!).

Bigger, professional labs might be a better bet than your local one hour photo where your pictures may be duplicated for…personal use! Now you have some basic advice on how to use body paint for your creative passions! Go out there and get painting!

Good luck!

If you decided that you want to have one of these permanent jewelries you will have to think about how to safely get a body-piercing or tattoo.

You can’t let yourself be butchered in one of those unauthorized piercing or tattoo shops, where besides body-jewelry you can get a disease too.

How to safely get a body-piercing? Let’s see some things you should consider before you make the final decision of getting pierced.

The most important thing to consider when you enter a piercing shop is that it should be scrupulously clean!

The piercer should wear disposable latex glows and use sterilized utensils.

Knowing how to safely get a body-piercing means that you should know something about the body piercing tools the piercer uses.

The needles should be completely sterilized, and immediately disposed of in a medical container after they have used.

You should know that piercing guns are never appropriate; they are often dangerous when used on anything other than earlobes.

The knowledge of how to safely get a piercing comes with information on the jewelry too.

1. The jewelry should be appropriate in size, material, design and construction.
2. The material should promote fast healing.
(Gold plated, gold-filled and sterling silver jewelry is never appropriate on new or unhealed piercing.)

After you get a piercing you should be informed of the proper after-care measures.

There are situations when even the most standard body piercing is not recommended.

You should get a doctors opinion if you have a heart disease, if you have a skin or tissue abnormality that may include but is not limited on rashes, lumps, bumps, scars, lesions, you shouldn’t try to pierce an irregular or surgically altered anatomy, you shouldn’t insist on getting a piercing if your body doesn’t agree with it. Piercing is not recommended, if you want to get pregnant in the near future, or you are already pregnant. In this case you should allow your body to focus on this important, complex and demanding task it is handling already.
How to safely get a body piercing is equal to the question how do you choose the right piercer.

In this era of blood born diseases you have to be very careful in choosing the person who will perform the piercing on you.

When you are checking out piercing studios you should look first for an autoclave. If they don’t have one, you shouldn’t let them pierce you. (If the dont have an autoclave how are they sterilizing their equipment?)

After you located the autoclave you should ask for their spore test results.

A spore test indicates if the autoclave is working properly.

The most important thing you have to check is if the piercing studios are reusing the needles!

All needles should be in individual packages and they should be opened in your presence.

You should check out if the studio is clean or not.

You should look at the personnel too, are they clean and neat? The walls are washed, the carpets vacuumed, the toilets are clean? If you feel they are not, then it is probably best to walk away.

You should ask for recommendation.

If you have friends, who had piercings or tattoos, you like how they look, and they didn’t have any trouble in the healing process you should ask them where they got them.

You should check out the piercings jewelry selection.

They should have a variety of types, measures and designs.

The studio should have an after-care sheet, where it is explained what should you do after you get your piercing or tattoo.

Don’t forget to ask about a license too.

We hope that if you decide to get your piercing/tattoo you will be careful and you will look gorgeous with it!

The explanation for cellulite is simple. Areas of the body that have a high ratio of fat to muscle (for example the thighs, hips and buttock area in women) are prone to the fat becoming trapped between muscle and skin. This causes the area to look lumpy and pocked. Connective tissue holds your muscles, fat and skin together and it is this fibrous tissue that we call cellulite.

How severely the area is ‘pocked’ depends on the amount of fibrous tissue you have in these areas of the body. Generally, the more you have the more pronounced it will look and probably the more it will be likely to bug you. Cellulite gets worse as you get older since you generally have less muscle tissue and tone leading to a greater proportion of fat to muscle.

So How Do You Get Rid of Cellulite?

There are many ‘miracle’ cures on the market these days but experts now recommend a good old fashioned, easy to do exercise program. No pills or creams or rubber garments-just a simple to follow body toning and conditioning plan.

In a recent study, twenty-three women took part in a two-month exercise program and saw a big improvement in the amount and appearance of their cellulite. Women of all ages participated in the study from twenty-three to sixty-six years old and varied in their level of fitness. The majority of participants were not very active, however, and all had significant cellulite on the hip, thigh and buttock area. These women did get rid of cellulite and you can too, but how do you start?

The “Get Rid of Cellulite” Program

The women simply exercised for thirty minutes, three times a week for a period of two months and by the end of the study all of them had decreased cellulite and were satisfied with their results. Seventy-three percent of them stated that their cellulite had decreased markedly. This reduction occurred across all age groups and fitness levels indicating that the program works for almost anybody.

To verify these results the program was carried out three more times with similarly effective results. The study proved it is more than possible to get rid of cellulite!

The Three-Step Get Rid of Cellulite Program Revealed!

1. Fifteen minutes of aerobic exercise – for example treadmill walking, cycling or step exercise. This must always be preceded by a two minute warm up and followed with a two minute cooling off period to prevent injury.

2. Fifteen minutes of strength training for a target muscle group is essential to get rid of cellulite build-up. This exercise must be of a nature that makes the muscle tired within ten repetitions. Begin with light weights and gradually increase to heavier weights. Concentrate on the thighs by doing leg lifts or side-lying leg lifts or use a thighmaster. Tone the buttocks by doing squats or lunges combined with one to five pound weights or hand weights held against your side. You can also use a weight machine.

3. Stretching the muscle for twenty seconds after each ten repetitions is vital for the success of the program. After the exercise you MUST stretch as this helps to increase the length and flexibility of the muscle and makes it stronger. When your muscles gain strength, the exercises are easier and you build more muscle. More muscle = less cellulite!

If this all sounds a far too simple way to get rid of cellulite, remember it’s not a miracle cure and will need some hard work and discipline for maximum effectiveness. All good things do need a bit of elbow grease after all, but being able to wear that bikini on the beach or the latest, hottest mini skirt and heels will probably more than make up for it! Let’s face it, two months isn’t very long and you will probably be so impressed with the results that you will make it a lifelong commitment.

You will also be fitter, stronger and healthier inside and out. The above three steps to get rid of cellulite practiced three times a week will be enough to ensure your cellulite is banished forever! So, c’mon, get rid of cellulite and discover the smoother sleeker you! Oh, and don’t forget to toss out all those baggy clothes! Good luck!

Acne

Acne affects people during puberty and their early teens but adult acne is fairly common too. In acne, the skin pores become blocked by oil called sebum. Sebum is natural oil that is responsible for the lubrication of skin and hair. Under normal circumstance it keeps them soft and supple but when our hormones become unbalanced too much sebum is produced and it can cause pimples and acne. This is most common on the T-Zone (forehead, nose and chin) area.

To prevent breakouts or clear them:

* Cleanse your face with a mild acne preparation twice a day only. Start with a gentle massage in a circular motion. Never rub or scrub your face as this will only cause irritation and worsen your acne. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends applying a benzoyl peroxide lotion after cleansing. This is a cheap lotion available without a prescription.

* Never pick or break open your pimples. This will channel infected cells deeper into the skin and cause even more swelling and redness as the bacteria take hold. It will also damage the skin and cause scarring. If you simply must get rid of a pimple before an important event visit a dermatologist and they will take care of your skin for you.

* Never touch your face with your fingers or place dirty objects like the telephone receiver against your cheeks. Your fingers contain bacteria that will spread into your pimples and cause infection. Always wash your hands before you wash your face and apply make-up or acne cream.

* Clean your glasses or sunglasses often to keep them bacteria free. Knowing how to take care of your skin means learning about hidden germs!

* Don’t wear tight clothes if you have acne on your body. Wear soft cotton clothing that lets your skin breathe. Avoid scarves, headbands, and hats or caps and if you do wear them keep the scrupulously clean.

* Never go to sleep with your make-up on if you want to take care of your skin. The make up you use should be ‘noncomedogenic’ or nonacnegenic’.

* Keep out of the sun as much as possible. Sun exposure dries out the skin and causes increased sebum production.

* Talk to your dermatologist. There are several treatments available that help to prevent and clear up acne and avoid scarring problems. Estheticians are trained skin specialists, sometimes found at spas and salons who offer advice and skin care treatments.

Sun Care for Your Skin

You can’t avoid the sun all the time, it is a vital source of Vitamin D and fun in the sun is one of life’s pleasures. However, to take care of your skin there are some steps to follow when you are enjoying the sunshine:

* Always apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Do this even if the day is cloudy or you won’t be in the sun for very long. Reapply your sunscreen after swimming and at intervals during the day.

* Use a brand of sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. If it says ‘broad spectrum protection” or UVA protection in addition to the SPF of 15 or greater then it is ideal. To prevent blocked pores choose one says “nonacnegenic” or “noncomedogenic” on the label.

* Reapply sunscreen frequently during 10:00 and 16:00 as this is when the sun is at its most powerful. Take a break indoors during the hottest part of the day.

* If you are around the pool or skiing use more sunscreen (with a higher SPF) Reflective surfaces like water, snow, or ice intensify the suns rays.

* Protect your eyes. Harsh sunlight can cause UV damage to your eyes so wear good sunglasses and a hat with 100% UV protection.

* Contraceptive pills and some prescription acne medication can make your far more sun sensitive so increase your sun protection if you are using them.

* Fake it! Apply self-tanning lotions or have a salon treatment but avoid tanning beds as they do contain damaging UVA rays.

Cold Sores

These annoying sores are caused by a type of herpes virus (HSV-1). This is usually not sexually transmitted but is very contagious. Once you have been exposed to it, it will stay in your body and you’ll likely get cold sores every now and then throughout life. However, there are ways to prevent cold sores from bothering you:

* Take care of your skin and never share lip balm, toothbrushes, or drinks with other people. The HSV-1 virus is transmitted through the nose (in mucus) and the mouth (in saliva).

* Cold sores can flare up from too much sun, stress or illness. More reasons to slather on suntan lotion, eat well, exercise, and get plenty of rest.

* Tips for staying comfortable:

* Take acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil or Motrin) if you are in any pain.

* Suck on ice pops, chips or cubes to cool the sores and stop the pain.

* Avoid acidic foods (oranges, tomatoes, and lemonade) and salty, spicy foods, which will irritate and burn your mouth.

* Be patient and don’t pick at cold sores. This will cause them to bleed or become infected with bacteria.

Cold sores usually go away on their own after one or two weeks. If they recur often consult a doctor or dermatologist.

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that features red, itchy and dry skin. You may notice several itchy skin patches especially on the backs of the knees or your elbows, and even on the neck and face. There is no real cure for eczema but there are some measures you can employ to take care of your skin and control the condition:

* Avoid harsh detergents, scented soaps, and fragranced lotions. These tend to irritate the skin and trigger eczema.

* Showers and baths should be short and warm, not hot. This is because the heat and moisture tends to dry the skin. When you wash dishes or the car always wear gloves.

* Keep your skin well lubricated with regular applications of moisturizer. These will help to prevent itching and dryness. Cream preparations moisturize a bit better and last longer than lotions for most people. Apply the cream to slightly wet skin, just after bathing.

* Wear cotton fabrics. Cotton is both breathable and soft. Avoid wool or spandex that may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

* Take care of your skin by managing your stress levels. Stress can lead to eczema flare-ups so try activities like yoga, walking and breathing exercises.

* Wear makeup that is free of dyes and fragrances.

* Talk to a dermatologist if your eczema is not under control.

If you take care of your skin you will go a long way towards avoiding the common skin problems listed above. You may not find an immediate cure for some skin disorders but as you learn to manage them correctly you will minimize the discomfort and misery you experience. Take care of your skin problems and never neglect any irritating condition. Avoid stress and strain and always treat your skin with the tender loving care it deserves and it will last through a lifetime of smiles.

Henna temporary tattoos are a great way to make an alluring personal statement about who you are and what you want to bring to the world and the people you meet. Before you get started it is a great idea to discover the importance and cultural significance of the tattooing practice.

Visit your local library or venture online to find out what temporary henna tattoo designs mean to the people who traditionally use them and try to copy them or adapt those that have a special meaning in your life too. Have some fun with it too, and incorporate designs that say ‘This is me!” This will make it a more rewarding and personal experience.

These days getting a temporary tattoo isn’t difficult. Many tattoo parlors now offer them as well as the more conventional forms but if you want to try your hand at doing your own henna designs or asking a friend to help you out then a few useful tips will come in handy:

* Make sure you find out exactly what is contained in the henna mixture before your use it-this will ensure that you aren’t allergic to any of the ingredients.

* Be cautious and perform a skin test before using the dye on your skin. Take a small amount of the mixture and place it on an inconspicuous area. Wait the normal length of time you would for the actual tattoo and watch your skin for any signs of irritation for the next two days. If none are apparent, you are ready for action. (Using lemon or sugar in the mixture may aid in reducing skin irritation).

* Decide on a pattern or design for your temporary tattoo . You may want to invent one of your own or consult books detailing traditional designs. Be sure that you are completely happy with the design as you are going to be stuck with it for a while.

* Make sure you use gloves and wear old clothes to avoid staining.

* Paint the design carefully on to clean skin. Avoid using any skin creams or body lotions prior to application and clean the skin with rubbing alcohol and cotton balls for the best results.

* Follow the instructions you are given for the length of time you will need to leave the henna on your skin. If you want a darker color for your temporary tattoo, leave the mixture on for a little longer.

* Use a soft brush to get rid of the dried henna and you will be able to see your henna tattoo immediately.

* Over the next few days the pattern will become a little darker and your new body decorations should last for a few weeks.

* Henna mixes are available at some pharmacies, oriental stores or organic produce stores, but it is a good idea to learn the different names for henna tattooing. Ask for mehndi, mehandi and/or mendhi.

* Henna that is 100% pure is green and will color your skin red, brown or orange. In general, the more pure the mixture is the healthier it is for your skin and there will be less chance of irritation. Some companies add chemicals to the mixtures to provide a range of colors, so ask your supplier about this before you buy.

Once you have completed the process you are ready to show off your new temporary tattoo. Choose an outfit like a midriff shirt or hipster pants to reveal your decorated belly or back or wear an ultra-short skirt to show off a thigh tattoo. If you are going to be on the beach wear a pair of sandals that shows off your painted feet to their best advantage or wear a low cut, backless dress to reveal a shoulder tattoo.

A temporary tattoo is used in fun and celebration as well as to mark special occasions, so use them often and try to incorporate them into the seasons of your daily life. The ancients wore them as outward statements of mood and attitude. Use your choice of temporary tattoo in this way and you will understand their true and deep significance and get the deepest satisfaction and reward from your body decorating.