Safety in Skin Care

I once told a pharmacist about the lemon remedy I was using on my pimples. She was horrified. Lemons are highly acidic. Lemon juice is pH 2. Sulfuric acid is pH 1. Lemons can cause a nasty acid burn if you are not careful.
We had a discussion about this. She told me about a customer who showed up with an acid burn. Turns out, she had a sunburn. Back in Australia, she would soothe that sunburn by rubbing cut cucumber over her skin. The juices would ease the sunburn. This time around, she was unlucky. The cucumber she used was more acidic than the ones she was used to and she ended up with a really nasty acid burn.

Now that we've covered those aspects of homemade facials, let's turn to some of the other factors that need to be considered.
Though cucumber is soothing, cucumber contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids as do most fruit and some of the other ingredients used in homemade beauty recipes.
You see, in home made skin care, the exact chemical makeup of the ingredients you use may vary, leading to unpleasant results if you are unfortunate. That is why, every time you make any facial mask, test it on the inside of your wrist first, before you let that mask touch your face.

I was lucky. The lemon facial I did helped clear my skin by killing the bacteria, without burning my skin. The pharmacist said I was fool hardy. As did my cousin who has been making her own beauty products for years already.
Lemon can thin the skin. It is so acidic. The pharmacist thought the other things, like the almond meal I mixed with the lemon juice helped neutralize the extreme acidity. Also, when I used freshly squeezed lemon juice directly on my face, I would dilute it with water first.

Yet the books I read with home made beauty recipes often include lemon in their recipes. After all, lemon has lightening properties. Lemon juice is often used to lighten freckles. Lemon was even recommended in a book by a former model, for use as a toner.
Not all ingredients are that dangerous though. Oats is an excellent ingredient for use in soothing facials. That was recommended to me by a doctor. For my toddler's rash. Cooked oats in a bag in the bath water is a home remedy to soothe itchy skin. Here is a facial that uses oats and rose water. http://www.womanht.com/facials/RoseOatsFacial.htm

A home made face mask can be as simple as putting some mash fruit your face. http://www.womanht.com/facials/fruity_facials_tried_and_tested.htm outlines such experiments with fruit.
Different skin types require different ingredients. Dry skin can use richer, nourishing ingredients. Really dry skin would love the moisturizing effect of sweet almond oil or olive oil. Oily skin, on the other hand would break out in pimples if you try massaging these oils on your face. What works for your best friend may be disastrous on you.

The easiest thing to do nowadays is to simply buy a great mask for your skin type off the shelf for your home facial. I use commercial masks these days after some disastrous experiments trying to find new ingredients for new home made facial masks for my site. The successful facials were published at http://www.womanht.com/facials/
Now that wasn't hard at all, was it? And you've earned a wealth of knowledge about facial skin care, just from taking some time to study an expert's word on homemade facials.

Homemade Facials

If you're seriously interested in knowing about homemade facials, you need to think beyond the basics. This informative article takes a closer look at things you need to know about makeup and beauty.
I started making facial masks after reading several books on natural cosmetics. Common ingredients used in home made facials are eggs, lemon, milk, honey, cucumber, tomato, essential oils and lots more fruits, herbs and other ingredients.
The assumption I had was that home made cosmetics, being all natural and preservative free were much safer than the commercial masks you found in stores. A wrong assumption. You know the saying about assumptions, right? Did you know some of the deadliest poisons on earth are 100% natural?

There are complaints about preservatives irritating the skin and all that. That may be true especially for a person with very sensitive skin.
But preservatives actually make cosmetics safe to use. Preservatives kill or at very least, inhibit the bacteria, mold, viruses and nasty things that would otherwise thrive in the cosmetics we use. Commercial preparations usually contain some preservative or other to make these products safe for use.
Some of the very high end cosmetic formulations are packed in sterile capsules to do away with or at least, minimize, the need for preservatives.

Eye Shadows to make Your Eyes "POP"

MAC Eye Shadow

Did you know you can wear certain colors of eye shadow that will make your eyes pop?

If your eyes are hazel for instance, but they usually look green then you can make them stand out by wearing purple eye shadow, and sometimes you may add a little green to it.

This effect works very well! You could definitely wear brown with your hazel eyes, but they would not pop like they do when when you apply the purple.

There are colors of eye shadow that will do this for every eye color out there, though you may have to experiment until you find the one that works best for you. Put on your eye shadow, close your eyes while standing in front of your mirror, then open them suddenly. Do you see pop or flop? You be the judge.

Eye Shadow doesn't have to Cost a Fortune to Look Good!

How much did you spend on your eye shadow the last time you went to a model photo session?
You really don’t have to spend a fortune on your eye shadow, but the ones that cost a little more do tend to stay in place on your eyelids a little longer. Honestly though, I have seen both expensive and inexpensive brands of eye shadow that work well for my fashion models and stay in place for the entire shooting.

There is nothing worse than your make up running down your face whe

n you are out in public or at an important model portfolio session. Make sure you get one that stays put as that might be the most attractive look of all. The color you choose is not important if the eye shadow is all over your face! When it comes to eye shadow and looking fantastic in your images, don't splurge or skimp on money.

My final tidbit of advice is to be sure you buy eye shadow that suits you and will compliment your eyes; not because everyone else is wearing it. You will be happy you made the right choice!

When word gets around about your command of eye shadow facts, others who need to know about eye shadow will start to actively seek you out.

MAC Eye Shadow

Eye Shadow & the Fashion Model

MAC Eye Shadow

If you are heading off to a photo session and are going to apply your own makeup, consider these points about eye shadow first. Yes, all stages of makeup application are important for fashion or glamour models but eye shadow undoubtedly plays a very important role in you final choices of cosmetics when posing for pictures.

Eye Shadow - Past and Present

I can remember what people dressed like when I was young. It was the seventies, and I remember the tight T-shirts and the bell-bottoms quite well.
I also remember that a lot of high school girls wore blue eye shadow and their eyes always seemed to be larger than life to me.
If you look at fashion trends and cosmetic changes through the years, and the fashion or glamour models of a certain decade, you may realize that it’s not just about the clothes the models are wearing in pictures. You can sometimes date a photo by just looking at the eye shadow.

The eye shadow and makeup progressions have changed tremendously through the years just like clothing trends. If you don’t believe me, just look at photos of girls and women taken in the eighties. The ways in which they applied their makeup was the sign of the times, and when the nineties rolled around, many people stopped wearing as much.
The models eye shadow went from wild to muted, if it was worn at all. Every year I find out a new color is in, but in reality, you can’t just wear any old color if you want to look fantastic in your model photos.

Just because everyone is wearing gobs of blue, that does not mean that you have to wear it, or that you should be wearing it. My dear mother always used that old saying; "If everybody jumped off a cliff does that mean you have to jump too?"
How can you put a limit on learning more about eye makeup? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom that will surprise you about your eyes.

Choose Your Eye Shadow

Is Your Eye Shadow Right for You?

In today's world, it seems that almost any topic is ope for debate. While I was gathering facts for this article, I was quite intrigued to find some of the facts you will learn here about eye shadow.

If you are heading off to a photo session and are going to apply your own makeup, consider these points about eye shadow first. Yes, all stages of makeup application are important for fashion or glamour models but eye shadow undoubtedly plays a very important role in you final choices of cosmetics when posing for pictures.

In today's world, it seems that almost any topic is open for debate. While I was gathering facts for this article, I was quite intrigued to find some of the facts you will learn here about eye shadow.

Eye Shadow & the Fashion Model

If you are heading off to a photo session and are going to apply your own makeup, consider these points about eye shadow first. Yes, all stages of makeup application are important for fashion or glamour models but eye shadow undoubtedly plays a very important role in you final choices of cosmetics when posing for pictures.

Skin Care Tips

Looks Good With Your Skin

The best course of action to take sometimes isn't clear until you've listed and considered your alternatives. The following paragraphs should help clue you in to what the experts think is significant.

Great skin is something that nearly everyone can cultivate. Our skin is affected by our:

Genes
Inner nutrition - what we eat and drink
Exercise
General health and well-being
Emotional health, and
Outer nutrition - how we take care of our skin

While we can't alter our genes, we can improve our skin by making the necessary adjustments in the areas we can influence.

Read on to discover the basic components of a healthy outer nutritional plan for your skin.
If you seriously want great skin the very first thing to do and wear a hat and good quality sunscreen when out in the sunshine. Having said that, let's move on to understand the next three basic foundations to great skin.

If you want your skin to look and feel great, careful cleansing is very important. This should be done first thing in the morning and last thing at night to remove pore-clogging dirt. Don't cleanse enough and you could find yourself prone to spots.

Cleanse too often and you could be stripping away essential oils and be susceptible to dry skin or even eczema. Understanding your skin type (normal, dry or oily) and using a cleanser to match is the best foundation for great looking skin. Remember to rinse your face with warm water after using a cleanser, as any residue will continue to work on the skin if not completely removed.

Truthfully, the only difference between you and skin care experts is time. If you'll invest a little more time in reading some of these skin care tips, you'll be that much nearer to expert status when it comes to taking care of your skin.

Our grandmother's used soap and water…isn't that good enough? Soap is not very good at removing makeup because it does not contain enough oils to dissolve the staying power that most cosmetics have today.
Remember the 'tight' feeling after your have washed your fact with soap? Soap can be very drying on your skin and may wash away essential oils. Another reason not to use soap is that it is not matched to the natural balance of our skin. Soap is generally alkaline, whilst skin is naturally acidic.

The second step to great outer nutrition for your skin is to tone. Toners are designed to remove any last traces of cleanser, while also helping to tighten and refine pores and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells. After toning your skin should fee and look revitalized and refreshed, and ready to be moisturized. Again you will need to apply a toner that matches your skin type.

The third foundation step is to apply moisturizer to help restore the moisture loss caused by the drying effects of sunlight, central heating, wind, cold and pollution. A good daytime moisturizer would contain a sunscreen and will be easily absorbed into the skin. At night you should use a richer, more nourishing cream, as this is when your skin more readily absorbs moisture.

Despite the plethora of products on the market and the myriad of additives…. the most important ingredient of any moisturizer is water! If water is just splashed on the skin it will not say there. Moisturizers are basically oil and water emulsions which contain a humectant (a substance added to another to make it moist), which attracts water and helps 'fix' it in the upper layers of the skin.

Moisture that is lost firm the skin needs to be replaced quickly so that the surface of the skin is kept both soft and smooth. The living cells in the layers need water so that they will not shrivel up and die. A moisturizer can protect the skin by providing a barrier between the skin and the external environment. It also prevents the loss of moisture from the deeper layers of the skin.

Should people who have oily skin use a moisturizer? Moisturizers are particularly recommended for people with dry skin but everyone can benefit from using a moisturizer. You simply need to ensure that you choose the correct moisturizer for your skin type. People with oily skin should choose a moisturizer that hydrates their skin whilst helping absorb any excess oil.

source : bobpardue

The Natural of Fragrance

Are You using a Natural Fragrance?

95% of chemicals used in fragrances are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. It has been estimated that more than 3000 different chemmcials are used in fragrance production. Do these figures shock you?

Yes, manufacturers are very clever – we see the packaging and the adverts showing flowers and nature, and we assume (as the manufacturer intends us to assume) that the fragrance in the product is derived from nature, but most fragrances are chemically derived. They do not use essential oils because they are too expensive. They do use synthetic chemicals because they are cheap.

We are exposed to perfume or fragrance throughout the day.

We may not wear perfume ourselves, but our shampoo, soap, shower gel and cosmetics are likely to contain synthetic perfumes, unless we look at the label and shop carefully.

We encounter more smells in our household products – cleaners, washing powders, polish, air fresheners, etc.

If we go out, we experience these smells on other people and in offices and stores.

Once you begin to move beyond basic background information, you begin to realize that there's more to perfume than you may have first thought.

Perfume mixes added to products are listed in the ingredients as ‘parfum’ or ‘fragrance’ depending on the part of the world you live in.

Even some products that appear to be unperfumed will contain synthetic perfumes in order to cover an unpleasant odour from one of the active ingredients, or to ensure that the product always smells the same. The exact composition of these may vary over time even for the same product, as the manufacturer adjust the fragrance mix in relation to variations in the smell of the raw ingredients.

Even some essential oils are not entirely natural, as harsh chemicals may be used in their extraction process. Chemical solvents such as hexane and heptane are used to extract the maximum amount of oil from the plant, so it is important to buy good quality oils from a source you trust.

Allergies to fragrances are very common. The main organs affected are the skin and the respiratory system, but neurological damage has also been reported.

Some people feel that we should have a right to fragrance-free air as well as tobacco-smoke-free air. There are also concerns about the impact of synthetic chemicals on the environment, as they do not necessarily break down easily.

Of course, there is a role for fragrance. The power of aromatherapy oils to heal and lift the spirits is well documented, but the widespread use of synthetic fragrances should be seen as pollution of both our bodies and our environments.

Of course, it's impossible to put everything about perfume and fragrance into just one article. But you can't deny that you've just added to your understanding about cosmetics, and that's time well spent.

Acne Adoloscent Style

How To Deal With It?

Adoloscent Acne

Are you looking for some inside information on acne? Here's an up-to-date report from acne experts who should know.

Adolescent acne is referred to by many names, teen acne, acne adoloscent, and hormonal acne to name just a few. Whatever you want to call it, it can be frustrating, painful, and embarrassing to a teen.

Living with acne over a prolonged period during your teen years can be emotionally devastating, after all this is the age where your appearance is most important. Teen acne is very hard on the ego, often resulting in teasing and razzing from peers. Some teens suffer from not only acne but sever depression.

During the adolescent years almost every teen will have at least an occasional whitehead, blackhead, or pimple. Adolescent acne usually occurs between the ages of 12 and 20, and is usually the result of fluctuating hormone levels. Once the hormones stabilize out the acne will normally disappear.

So what’s the best way to deal with adolescent acne? The simplest and most important thing a teen can do, is to learn to take good care of their skin, keeping it clean and as oil free as possible.

This is not a cure but can help keep acne breakouts to a minimum.

Eating healthy and drinking plenty of water will also help by keeping the skin hydrated and the body flushed.

Girls should use oil free cosmetics. Lightly exfoliating once a week will help open pours, and remove dead skin debris.

If your acne facts are out-of-date, how will that affect your actions and decisions? Make certain you don't let important acne information slip by you.

Milder cases of acne can be controlled by using conventional over the counter medicines that are applied directly to the skin. These medications usually include benzoyl peroxide or retinoic acid as an active ingredient.

Some natural products that can be used to treat acne are tea tree oil or Echinacea. Wash your face twice a day with a mixture of these herbs to reduce the number of break outs. Both have anti-inflammatory and anti-septic qualities.

In more severe adolescent acne a Doctor may try various oral medications such as antibiotics, oral contraceptives or Accutane.

As teens get older and hormones stabilize, fewer outbreaks should be seen, however some people do continue to have outbreaks well into adult hood. If the teen acne condition worsens or becomes emotionally debilitating it is important to seek medical help from a dermatologist.

You do not want an adolescent to grow up with skin and emotional scars as a result of acne, so treat not only their physical scars but their emotional scars.

Knowing enough about acne to make solid, informed choices cuts down on the fear factor. If you apply what you've just learned about acne, you should have nothing to worry about.

Acne Treatment Tips

Current info about acne treatment is not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this report includes the latest tips available.

Acne is a broad term which includes blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Acne can strike at any age. Effective acne treatments are sometimes difficult to find, and understanding acne and prevention can be frustrating. Here are some acne treatment tips that have worked for many.

Although acne isn’t life threatening it can be uncomfortable and hard on your ego. There has always been a debate about the actual cause of acne. The actual cause isn’t as important as finding a cure.

So is there a cure for acne. Well yes and no. There are many products available and for some they are a cure, for others they do not help. A cure is only a cure when you find a product that works for you.

Most acne treatments will take time to work. It usually takes around 8 weeks before you see any significant improvement so you are going to have to be patient. Once you’ve got your acne cleared up it’s important to continue with the treatment that’s working so it does not return.

If you have serious acne it is best to consult a dermatologist. However in milder cases you will often be able to get it under control by yourself just by preservering. Try these tips to conquer your acne.

Exercise

Regular exercise helps keep your whole body in shape. It builds your immune system and helps eliminate toxins from the body. It’s a great start to fighting acne.

The more authentic information about acne treatment you know, the more likely people are to consider you a acne treatment expert. Read on for even more acne treatment facts that you can share.

Cosmetics

Choose cosmetics that are water based and hypo-allergenic. Avoid oil free products, coal tar derivatives, and heavy creams. Make sure you wash your skin thoroughly every night to remove makeup residue.

Hormones

Hormones can play a role in acne flare ups and they can be used to reduce outbreaks. Your doctor may decide to use HRT to eliminate or reduce your acne outbreaks.

Clean Skin

You need to avoid harsh scrubbing of your face but you also need to thoroughly clean your skin nightly. Use a mild cleaning regime every night. Once or twice a week you should also use an exfoliator to gently remove damaged skin and unplug pores.

Shaving

Is actually a great exfoliating treatment the removes dead skin. However you should never shave an area that is infected or inflamed. Always use a shaving cream if your skin is sensitive.

Stress

Can be a contributing factor to acne so try to relax and unwind. Emotions trigger chemical reactions in the body which can cause an outbreak.

You can help control your acne outbreaks by following these simple steps. What are you waiting for?

Now you can be a confident expert on acne treatment. OK, maybe not an expert. But you should have something to bring to the table next time the subject of acne treatment is mentioned.

Products daily skin care regime

The best time to learn about acne skin care is before you're in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable acne skin care experience while it's still free.

1 Glycerin is a good moisturizer.

Glycerin is known to moisturize from the inside out, pulling in moisture from the outside environment. It's typically found in better quality, more expensive soaps like a hand made soap or good cleanser. Lower grade, commercially produced soaps usually remove the glycerin and use more cost effective chemicals which are much more destructive to the skin.

2 Tea Tree Oil and Eucalyptus are terrific for cleansing.

Tea tree oil is considered to have some of the best natural antiseptic / antifungal properties in the world. Eucalyptus oil has been shown to fight infection-causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses very effectively.

3 Pure Aloe Vera - the absolute best moisturizer.

Always remember what is best for your body is best for your skin, especially since your skin is the largest organ of your body. So remember to watch your diet and consume healthy vitamins, minerals and other supplements. This will help to prevent and help conquer acne breakout.

Don't limit yourself by refusing to learn the details about acne skin care. The more you know, the easier it will be to focus on what's important.

source : ultimate-cosmetics

Acne Skin Care Tips

Do you ever feel like you know just enough about acne skin care to be dangerous? Let's see if we can fill in some of the gaps with the latest info from acne skin care experts.

The first most important thing for an acne prone skin is hygiene. A healthy skin care regime should include no harsh scrubbing or over-washing, because this can cause possible skin irritation or over production of oil to replace what has washed off, clogging pores in the process.

Products with gentle exfoliation ingredient should be used; i.e. not scratchy nut or fruit shell pieces that can tear skin. Also skip alcohol products when possible; these can take off the top layer of your skin and cause your glands to produce more oil, further causing clogging pores in the process. If you do spot acne-troubled areas, do NOT mess with them.

Tip: Remember that an acne remedy is only as good as the person reading the directions so take care when reading articles about how to cure acne.

For best acne skin care effects, using a mild cleanser or toner once in the morning, noon and evening, and after doing a heavy work out, will help you achieve a clear skin. Pick that zit. People who prick pimples and blemishes as if pricking a bubble only aggravates the risk of skin inflammation and acne scars.

Avoid hand contact with your face for better acne skin care results. For men, shaving should be done with care. Choose the best electric shavers and safety razors you can trust for years. They'll be more comfortable to use.

Men need not use a super sharp blade to get rid of that beard. A regular shaver used with soap and water, or shaving cream will help you get that smooth finish. Doctors advised men to shave lightly, and shave only when necessary for acne skin care maintenance.

Skin and Hair Tips

Is Your Hair & Skin Ready for the Sun?

You should be able to find several indispensable facts about skin, hair and makeup in the following paragraphs. If there's at least one fact about skin care you didn't know before, imagine the difference it might make.

SKIN:

Looking after your skin in summer the right way is very important. So, make it a point to use a face wash. If you are on the run, never forget to carry face wipes. They help to cleanse, tone and moisturize the skin.

They even take the grime off the face. In summer, try to opt for oil-free moisturizers with SPF 30, which also double as sunscreens.

Avoid soap. Instead use a cleansing milk.

A lip balm is a must for all age groups. Since summer is all about grime and sweat, avoid oily astringents and use rose water instead.

Remember to drink lots of water to hydrate the skin. To get more information on skin care, refer this http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/beauty/skin-care.htm

MAKEUP: Less is more. Get minimum makeup and just a hint of translucent powder. But if you do want to add a dash of glam, try this, if your skin is dry, try creams which give a dewy effect. This hydrates the skin and adds a glow. Opt for clear mascara instead of a black one, and use a pale lipstick for your cheeks and lips. Pepermint foot cream also works wonders. And finally a word of caution, "never sleep with makeup on".

Most of this information comes straight from the cosmetics skincare and hair tips pros. Careful reading to the end virtually guarantees that you'll know what they know.

HAIR:

Try using a sunscreen for your hair. Leaving on a conditioner with UV protection is a great bet for dry and brittle hair.

Products for treated hair are a must in summer, besides regularly using liss and fizz control solutions. A regular oil massage too helps. Try deep-conditioning treatment, as the sun-rays damage the hair.

THE GOLDEN RULE:

You need to regularly follow the three golden rules of cleansing, toning and moisturizing for a healthy skin and fabulous glow.

Find lots of homemade beauty recipes here - http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/homemade-beauty-products.htm

Don't limit yourself by refusing to learn the details about skin and hair tips. The more you know about cosmetics skincare, the easier it will be to focus on what's important

All Skin Types

Right type: LIQUID CHEEK STAINS

Reason: They're excellent for all skin types and face shapes, as you can use a little to achieve a natural flush of color, or layer to build up the shading to an intense hue that will last all through the day.

How to apply: They work best on bare cheeks and need to be applied quickly to avoid mistakes. Apply powder blusher over cheek stains for ultimate staying powder.

If you base what you do on inaccurate information, you might be unpleasantly surprised by the consequences. Make sure you get the whole facial makeup story from informed sources.

Dry or Combination Skin Right type: CREAM Reason: Cream blusher is the best if you have dry to combination skin as there's no powder to sit on your dry patches. Also, the texture helps your skin maintain a natural , luminous glow. How to apply: It's easy to apply on bare skin or over foundation. If you have a round face don't shade apples of your cheek instead apply it on your cheekbones, slanting towards your temples.

Oily Skin

Right type: POWDER

Reason: It's classic, and perfect for achieving dense color coverage. It's the best texture for contouring your cheekbones, and is ideal for oily skin as it lies well on your skin's surface and reduces shine.

How to apply: Sweep on to your cheeks in a croissant shape for a natural - looking flush.

Mature Skin

Right type: GEL OR MOUSSE

Reason: Mousse and gel formulas are great for mature skins and if you want a subtle result. They can be worn alone on bare skin or layered over foundation, before powder, and are less fiddy to use than liquid stains. All mousse formulas offer pretty velvety finish and are really smooth to apply.

How to apply: When putting on gel or mousse blusher, tap it gently on to your cheeks and blend upwards and outwards with your fingertips. But don't apply it on top of your make- up as you will not be able to blend it.

Find related information here: http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/blush-makeup.htm

Knowing enough about facial makeup to make solid, informed choices cuts down on the fear factor. If you apply what you've just learned about facial makeup, you should have nothing to worry about.

The Wonderful World of Blushers

When you think about facial makeup, what do you think of first? Which aspects of facial makeup are important, which are essential, and which ones can you take or leave? You be the judge.

Gone are the days when women stuck to one color blusher usually pinks or peaches. Now days, blushers come in a whole new variety of colors and different formulations. There are vast array of clever new formulas. The main choices are traditional powder, a cream texture, a modern liquid or a gel finish. So there is certainly one out there to suit your skin type.

Powder blush is the easiest to use. If you prefer this type, choose one that isn't too sparkly or it'll enhance your wrinkles. Shimmery blushers are far kinder to mature skin as they diffuse fine lines, making the delicate skin around your cheeks look younger. And as your skin feels drier as you get older, you could also try moisturizing cream formula that gives a flattering sheen to your skin.

Color and Cosmetics

Why You Should Check the Color of Your Cosmetics ?

When most people think of cosmetics, what comes to mind is usually basic information that's not particularly interesting or beneficial. But there's a lot more to cosmetics than just the basics.

Many people avoid artificial colors in their foods, but don't check out the colors in cosmetics and personal care products. It is only in recent years that cosmetics have started to carry a full list of ingredients on their packaging.

Making sense of the ingredients can be difficult for the lay person. This is particularly true for colorings, which often go under the guise of numbers rather than names.

In many countries colors in cosmetics are listed as color index numbers. C.I. numbers are allocated by the Society of Dyers and Colorists. The scheme covers colors used in food, personal care products, cosmetics, household products and fabric dyeing. So, for example you will not normally see ‘tartrazine’ listed in your lipstick ingredients, but it may be there listed as C.I. 19140. Erythrosine will be listed as C.I. 45430, and so on.

The USA uses a different system: the FD & C colors have been categorized by the American Food & Drink Administration for use in foods, drugs and cosmetics.

So in this system tartrazine is FD & C yellow 5, and amaranth is FD & C red 2.

The ‘E Number’ system is used by the European Community (EC).

This is a system of giving code numbers to food additives, some of which are also used in cosmetics and personal care products. This system is also used in some other countries but without the E prefix, so E102 becomes simply color ‘102’.

Sometimes the most important aspects of a subject are not immediately obvious. Keep reading to get the complete picture.

All this confusion for the average consumer would not be important, but for the fact that some of these colors are known to cause problems in susceptible individuals. For example, tartrazine (also known as FD & C Yellow 5, CI 1914 and EI02) can cause migraines, itching, rhinitis and agitation in susceptible individuals. Many individuals avoid its use in food, but do not realize how extensively it is used in cosmetics, such as lipstick, and personal care products.

The big worries in terms of colors in cosmetics and personal care products are lipstick, coloured lip balms, lip gloss and lip pencils, because anyone who uses these regularly ‘eats’ a fair quantity over their life time, but these colors also appear in skin cream, foundation, mascara and so on too. (Remember also that these colors can also be in 'natural' cosmetics and skin care products.)

Another worry is that even the 'experts' cannot agree on an international 'safe' list of colors, so that a color may be allowed in one country, but banned elsewhere. For example, quinoline yellow is allowed within the European Community and in some other countries, but is banned in Japan, Norway and the United States.

As ever, the advice is: keep yourself informed and read the label. Here is a list of the different names and numbers that common colorings go under:

• Tartrazine: E102 or FD & C Yellow 5 or C.I. 19140
• Quinoline yellow or E104 or C.I. 47005
• Sunset yellow or E110 or FD & C Yellow 6 or C.I. 15985
• Amaranth or E123 or FD & C Red 2 or C.I. 16185
• Ponceau 4R or E124 or C.I. 16255
• Erythrosine or E127 or FD & C Red 3 or C.I. 45430
• Red 2G or E128 or C.I. 18050
• Allura red AC or E129 or FD & C Red 40 or C.I. 16035
• Patent blue V or E131 or C.I. 42051
• Indigo carmine or E132 or FD & C Blue 2 or C.I. 73015
• Brilliant blue FCF or FD & C Blue 1 or C.I. 42090
• Fast green FCF or FD & C Green 3 or C.I. 42053
• Green S or E142 or C.I. 44090

Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.

Mac Cosmetic is the right Choose ?

It can be difficult sometime to know what Mac makeup cosmetic is right for you. Some Mac cosmetics can be very expensive. The price can be thousands dollar. But if you want to look pretty you must cash out much money for your performance.

If you are looking to find cheap Mac cosmetics, try buying Cosmetic Mac wholesale. Come, try these new Mac cosmetic products that are completely safe and natural and you too will find the joy of looking the best you can.

When word gets around about your command of Mac cosmetics facts, others who need to know about Mac cosmetics will start to actively seek you out.

As you know to have best performance is expensive so if you want someone to watch out you then you can choose this best cosmetic even this cosmetic is more expensive then the other brands.

Is Mac Really the Best Makeup?

Do you think MAC is the best makeup ?

Mac cosmetics are just the type of cosmetics women are looking for. Mac cosmetics can change you, in a matter of minutes, from the average looking, ordinary, girl-next-door into a stunning beauty. Mac cosmetics have a whole range of makeup, haircare, and skincare products for you.

For that special evening out, all you need is your set of Mac cosmetics and some time in front of the mirror.

However, Mac cosmetics are, after all, only cosmetics. As soon as you remove your makeup, the beautiful old you seems to disappear.

How would you feel about having a glowing complexion, lovely skin and a head of shining, healthy hair - all achieved without constantly using makeup?

Sound good? Well, it's true, and is now very much achievable!

Mac cosmetics have recently introduced skin care products that will make your skin glow radiantly without constantly putting on makeup. In addition, they have developed products that will make your hair and complexion beautiful all day long without any makeup.

In fact, tests conducted on a group of healthy, female volunteers with age ranging from 40 to 65 years old exhibited clear signs of improvements in wrinkle reduction, skin softness, hydration, smoothness and firmness when using these new Mac cosmetics.

Now that we've covered those aspects of Mac cosmetics, let's turn to some of the other factors that need to be considered.

Safety In Cosmetic Surgery

Almost everyone knows of a friend or family member who has had some type of cosmetic surgery. The interest and popularity in cosmetic surgery is only increasing as the baby boomers age, and as newer techniques and training allow more qualified surgeons to be available.

Why would a healthy person seek out an elective surgical operation that is not required for strictly medical purposes? The answer is to improve the quality of their lives and to enhance appearance, self-esteem and self image. Many of us feel much younger than we look and almost all of us want to look our best. The American consumer spends billions of dollars on clothing, makeup, weight reduction plans, health clubs and exercise equipment. Why not have a nip and tuck, or take care of an unwanted fatty bulge? This article will touch upon several important requirements a smart consumer should look for to give the highest likelihood of a safe and successful outcome when considering plastic surgery.

The first thing to understand is that cosmetic surgery is surgery, and it should not be equated to a beauty parlor visit. Any operation has some degree of inherent risk, such as anesthetic reactions, bleeding, infection, prolonged numbness or scarring. Fortunately, serious or life threatening complications are very uncommon when cosmetic surgery is performed by competent and well trained surgeons in the proper location and environment. A patient needs to be counseled pre-operatively about what to realistically expect from the proposed surgery.

A cosmetic surgeon needs to get to know the individual in a relaxed atmosphere to truly understand the patient's goals, and make sure they are realistic and achievable in his hands. This may take two or three visits, but it is time well spent. I always feel that a knowledgeable patient is a good patient.

An ethical physician can never guarantee an exact surgical result, nor imply that the patient will be happy afterwards. It is not uncommon to have to perform an occasional revision procedure if results have not lived up to the pre-operative goals set by patient and surgeon. Hopefully this will occur infrequently, and will be relatively minor in extent. If an individual cannot accept a minor degree of imperfection and will only be satisfied with the elusive perfect result, then he or she is not the best candidate for cosmetic surgery. Surgeons have an obligation to give an honest and thorough informed consent to patients.

Some individuals are simply not good candidates for cosmetic surgery due to medical or psychological reasons, The ethical surgeon will turn down these people for surgery, or postpone it until the medical and/or psychological problem is dealt with and resolved.

A surgeon should never push the envelope of safety in cosmetic surgery. For example, if an individual wants liposuction performed on multiple body areas that would entail massive fat extraction, then the procedure should be split up into two or more separate operations. The maximum fat and fluid extraction should be kept under 400OCCS or 8.8 pounds per operation in an ambulatory surgery setting,

The location of the planned surgery is also very important. The consumer should make sure the operation is to be performed at an accredited surgical suite. One of the most prestigious accreditation organizations is the AAAHC (Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Healthcare). The AAAHC sets standards, measures performance, provides consultation and education when needed, and ultimately awards accreditation to those organizations that are found to be compliant with its standards. These standards relate to areas such as quality of care, clinical records, pharmaceutical services, environmental safety, governance, administration and professional development. An individual is taking chances if extensive cosmetic surgery is not performed in an accredited surgical facility. Furthermore, California law requires that if deeply sedative anesthesia is to be given, it must be administered in an accredited surgical facility.

All surgeons and their anesthesia personnel should he up to date and certified in advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), and have contingency plans in case of medical emergencies. The bare minimum includes running emergency drills quarterly and having a transfer agreement in place with a nearby hospital,

Of course, a fine reputation of the surgeon points the prospective patient in the right direction. Board certification of the doctor with a proven track record of performing many successful operations is assuring, and is a minimum requirement of the savvy consumer. Surgical specialists have the coveted F.A.C.S. after their names, which signifies membership in the prestigious American College of Surgeons. Find out if the doctor has completed additional subspecialty training, usually by means of a fellowship after completing residency training. One can also check out the physician's credentials through the local county medical association. Most reputable surgeons have a teaching commitment and appointment at a nearby medical school, and are dedicated to the education and training of younger surgeons. The consumer should always be wary of doctors making extraordinary claims of unrealistic results, using unethical forms of advertising, or charging basement bargain fees.

An ethical physician always puts the safety of the patient paramount when it comes to cosmetic surgery. The envelope of safety must not be breached, nor routinely approached. Conservatism and good judgment should outweigh aggressiveness and risk. Surgeons are fortunate to be held in high esteem by the public, and we must prove to the consumer that we deserve this privilege. All plastic and cosmetic surgeons should constantly strive for excellence, be dedicated to continuing their education and training and maintain the demeanor expected of a medical professional. Although cosmetic surgery is very safe when performed by competent and qualified physicians in a safe environment, continued vigilance is needed to keep unqualified practitioners from harming the public.

Permanent Makeup and Tattoos

While temporary and permanent tattoos are subject to regulation as cosmetics and are under the jurisdiction of the Food and Drug Administration; state and local agencies have direct jurisdiction over the practice of tattooing by salon technicians. FDA is currently evaluating the safety of tattoos and permanent makeup as a result of their growing popularity. Among the issues being considered are tattoo removal, adverse reactions to tattoo colors and infections and infectious disease that result from the use of these products.

The inks, or dyes, used for tattoos are color additives. Currently no color additives have been approved for tattoos, including those used in permanent makeup.

Consumers should be aware of some of the risks presented by tattoos and permanent makeup:

1. Unsterile tattooing equipment and needles can transmit infectious disease, such as hepatitis; it is extremely important to confirm that all equipment is clean and sanitary before use;
   
2. Tattoos and permanent makeup are not easily removed and in some cases may cause permanent discoloration; think carefully before getting a tattoo and consider the possibility of an allergic reaction; and
   
3. Blood donations cannot be made for a year after getting a tattoo or permanent makeup
   

Therapeutic Claims

What about therapeutic claims?

Be aware that promoting a product with claims that it treats or prevents disease or otherwise affects the structure or any function of the body may cause the product to be considered a drug. FDA has an Import Alert in effect for cosmetics labeled with drug claims. For more information on drug claims, refer to Is It a Drug, a Cosmetic, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?).

How should products be labeled if they are both drugs and cosmetics?

If a product is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug as well as a cosmetic, its labeling must comply with the regulations for both OTC drug and cosmetic ingredient labeling [21 CFR 701.3(d)]. The drug ingredients must appear according to the OTC drug labeling requirements [21 CFR 201.66(c)(2) and (d)] and the cosmetic ingredients must appear separately, in order of decreasing predominance [21 CFR 201.66(c)(8) and (d)]. Contact the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) for further information on drug labeling.

What languages are acceptable?

All labeling information that is required by law or regulation must be in English. The only exception to this rule is for products distributed solely in a U.S. territory where a different language is predominant, such as Puerto Rico. If the label or labeling contains any representation in a foreign language, all label information required under the FD&C Act must also appear in that language [21 CFR 701.2(b)].

What labeling information is required?

The following information must appear on the principal display panel:

• An identity statement, indicating the nature and use of the product, by means of either the common or usual name, a descriptive name, a fanciful name understood by the public, or an illustration [21 CFR 701.11].
• An accurate statement of the net quantity of contents, in terms of weight, measure, numerical count or a combination of numerical count and weight or measure [21 CFR 701.13].

The following information must appear on an information panel:

• Name and place of business. This may be the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. [21 CFR 701.12].
• Distributor statement. If the name and address are not those of the manufacturer, the label must say "Manufactured for..." or "Distributed by..." [21 CFR 701.12].
• Material facts. Failure to reveal material facts is one form of misleading labeling and therefore makes a product misbranded [21 CFR 1.21]. An example is directions for safe use, if a product could be unsafe if used incorrectly.
• Warning and caution statements. These must be prominent and conspicuous. The FD&C Act and related regulations specify warning and caution statements related to specific products [21 CFR part 700]. In addition, cosmetics that may be hazardous to consumers must bear appropriate label warnings [21 CFR 740.1]. An example of such hazardous products is flammable cosmetics.
• Ingredients. If the product is sold on a retail basis to consumers, even it it is labeled "For professional use only" or words to that effect, the ingredients must appear on an information panel, in descending order of predominance. [21 CFR 701.3]. Remember, if the product is also a drug, its labeling must comply with the regulations for both OTC drug and cosmetic ingredient labeling, as stated above.

source: FDA consumer

Cosmetic Labeling

The following information is a brief introduction to labeling requirements. For a more thorough explanation of cosmetic labeling regulations, refer to FDA's Cosmetic Labeling Manual and the regulations themselves (21 CFR parts 701 and 740). Firms also may wish to discuss their labeling needs with a consultant.

Proper labeling is an important aspect of putting a cosmetic product on the market. FDA regulates cosmetic labeling under the authority of both the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). These laws and their related regulations are intended to protect consumers from health hazards and deceptive practices and to help consumers make informed decisions regarding product purchase.

It is illegal to introduce a misbranded cosmetic into interstate commerce, and such products are subject to regulatory action. Some of the ways a cosmetic can become misbranded are:

• its labeling is false or misleading,
• its label fails to provide required information,
• its required label information is not properly displayed, and
• its labeling violates requirements of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970 [FD&C Act, sec. 602; 21 U.S.C. 362].

Does FDA pre-approve cosmetic product labeling?

No. FDA does not have the resources or authority under the law for pre-market approval of cosmetic product labeling. It is the manufacturer's and/or distributor's responsibility to ensure that products are labeled properly. Failure to comply with labeling requirements may result in a misbranded product.

Some labeling terms you should know

Before proceeding with a discussion of labeling requirements, it is helpful to know what some labeling terms mean:

• Labeling. This term refers to all labels and other written, printed, or graphic matter on or accompanying a product [FD&C Act, sec. 201(m); 21 U.S.C. 321(m)].
• Principal Display Panel (PDP). This is the part of the label most likely displayed or examined under customary conditions of display for sale [21 CFR 701.10].
• Information Panel. Generally, this term refers to a panel other than the PDP that can accommodate label information where the consumer is likely to see it. Since the information must be prominent and conspicuous [21 CFR 701.2(a)(2)], the bottom of the package is generally not acceptable for placement of required information, such as the cosmetic ingredient declaration.

Is it permitted to label cosmetics "FDA Approved"?

No. As part of the prohibition against false or misleading information, no cosmetic may be labeled or advertised with statements suggesting that FDA has approved the product. This applies even if the establishment is registered or the product is on file with FDA's Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP) (see 21 CFR 710.8 and 720.9, which prohibit the use of participation in the VCRP to suggest official approval). False or misleading statements on labeling make a cosmetic misbranded [FD&C Act, sec. 602; 21 U.S.C. 362].

source: FDA consumer

Decoding the Cosmetic Label

How can you be sure your shampoo that claims to have all natural ingredients does not also contain some synthetic chemicals? Or that your hand lotion actually does contain the vitamin hit claims? The logical response should be, "Read the ingredient label on the back of the product." Logical, if you happen to be a chemist or a cosmetic scientist. Perplexing, if you are the average cosmetic consumer.

A quick glance at the back of the cosmetic label is all it takes to see that the ingredients are written in the language of chemistry. (See Chemical Translations.) Unless you know that one of the shampoo ingredients--methyl paraben--is a synthetic preservative derived from a petroleum base, or that tocopherol is vitamin E, you may never be able to check the claims against the contents.

John Bailey, Ph.D., director of the Food and Drug Administration's Office of Cosmetics and Colors, understands such consumer dilemmas. He and the scientists on his staff admit that most of us don't recognize the names of the ingredients listed. But there's no way to change that and still accurately identify the ingredients.

Chemical names are the only way ingredients can be listed because that's what they are. Most are cosmetic formulations, but in some products, such as an underarm deodorant that also claims to stop perspiration, the first chemical listed may be a drug ingredient and FDA would classify the product as a drug as well as a cosmetic.

Many ingredients are marketed with trade names, but these often provide little clue to the identity and intended use of the material. Trade names in the ingredient list could be confusing to consumers purchasing a cosmetic because they would have no way to compare similar ingredients in similar products. Also, some trade names include mixtures of raw materials--for example, an ingredient could be combined with a preservative.

Despite the highly technical language of the ingredient list, Bailey says it's entirely possible for consumers to get valuable information about a product by checking the label-front and back. To decode the cosmetic label, here's what you need to know.

Image vs. Reality

Don't be fooled by claims made for certain cosmetic ingredients. Their presence in the products could be pure puffery because the law does not require cosmetic manufacturers to substantiate performance claims.

"Image is what the cosmetic industry sells through its products," Bailey says, "and it's up to the consumer to believe it or not." (See "Cosmetic Ingredients: Understanding the Puffery" in the May 1992 FDA Consumer.)

FDA considers the labeling of vitamins in cosmetics a separate issue, however, and does not recognize health claims for them in cosmetics. A product that features a vitamin--for example, vitamin E--must list it by its chemical name TOCOPHEROL on the ingredient list. Listing it as a vitamin in the ingredient statement would give the misleading impression that vitamin E in the product offers a nutrient or health benefit. (Vitamin E is usually added as an antioxidant to prevent chemical deterioration of the product.)

Consumers can get important health and value information by checking the ingredient list. For example, if you need fragrance-free hair spray because you have a sensitivity, a product containing a fragrance--even one that just masks the chemical odors of the raw materials--could be a waste of money if you can't use it.

Ingredient statements on cosmetics were first required in 1973 under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act, enforced by FDA. Before then, consumers could only guess what was in a cosmetic product or if the product contained what it claimed. That requirement is especially valuable today with the industry competition for new ingredients.

The law allows a manufacturer to ask FDA to grant "trade secret" status for a particular ingredient. FDA grants this status under vary limited circumstances and after careful review of the manufacturer's data. The manufacturer must prove that the ingredient imparts some unique property to a product and that the ingredient is not well-known in the industry. If trade secret status is granted, the ingredient does not have to be listed on the label, but the list must end with the phrase "and other ingredients."

Consumers can also check value by comparing ingredient lists of similar products. Ingredients are listed in descending order, starting with the greatest amount in the product. A lotion with a featured ingredient close to the beginning of the list, for example, would have more of that ingredient than any other ingredient. A featured ingredient listed close to the end suggests that not much of that ingredient is present.

Anyone curious about an ingredient in a cosmetic can find answers in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary, published by the Cosmetic, Toiletries, and Fragrance Association. The dictionary provides a complete list of the most widely known cosmetic ingredients and their definitions and trade names. The dictionary, and all other compendia FDA recognizes to name ingredients, are available for reference at many public libraries, or at the Office of the Federal Register, 1100 L St., N.W., Washington, DC 20408.

Cosmetic ingredient declaration regulations apply only to retail products intended for home use. Products used exclusively by beauticians in beauty salons or cosmetic studios, and cosmetic samples such as those distributed free at hotels are not subject to the ingredient labeling rules. They must, however, state the name and address of the manufacturer, packer or distributor, and give an accurate statement of quantity and all necessary warning statements, as do all other cosmetics that weigh over one-fourth ounce or one-eighth fluid ounce.

Cosmetics That Are Also Drugs

Cosmetics making therapeutic claims that they may affect the structure or function of the body are regulated as drugs and cosmetics and must meet the labeling requirements for both. One way you can tell if you're dealing with such a product is if the first entry in the ingredient list says "Active Ingredient." (The active ingredient is the chemical that makes the product effective, and it must be safe for its intended use.) However, active ingredients are not legally required to be identified by this term. The law does require the active ingredient(s) to be listed first, followed by a list of all inactive cosmetic ingredients.

Examples of products that are both cosmetics and drugs are shampoos that treat dandruff, fluoride toothpastes to prevent dental decay, and sunscreens and sunblocking cosmetics, including foundations that contain sunscreens. (See "Dodging the Rays" in the July-August 1993 FDA Consumer.)

A product with a drug and cosmetic classification must be scientifically proven safe and effective for its therapeutic claims before it is marketed. If the product is not, FDA considers it to be a misbranded drug and can take regulatory action.

Preventing Problems

Under FDA's good manufacturing practice guidelines, even cosmetic products that are not regulated as drugs should be thoroughly tested for safety and subject to quality control during manufacture. But the law does not require the agency to review these tests before the cosmetics are marketed. Nevertheless, FDA does require safety warnings when problems become apparent.

Misuse of some cosmetic products can cause problems that range in severity from a mild rash to skin burns, or from burning eyes to blindness.

Look for warnings about the consequences of misuse required on products that could be hazardous, in addition to the detailed directions for use that appear on almost all cosmetics.

For example, products containing halocarbon or hydrocarbon propellants, such as aerosol hairsprays or deodorants, must bear the exact wording:

"Warning--Use only as directed. Intentional misuse by deliberately concentrating and inhaling the contents can be harmful or fatal."

All cosmetics in self-pressurized containers, such as shaving creams, must have specifically worded warnings against spraying near the eyes, puncturing, incinerating, storing, and intentionally misusing.

"Keep out of the reach of children" is also required for all products in pressurized containers. In the case of products intended for use by children, such as foaming soap, the phrase "except under adult supervision" may be added.

Other products requiring specific wording include:

• Detergent bubble bath products-- may irritate skin and the urinary tract through excessive use or prolonged exposure. The labeling instructs users to discontinue the product if rash, redness or itching occur, to consult a physician if imitation persists, and to keep out of reach of children. These adverse reactions reportedly occur mostly with prolonged soaks. According to some studies, the adverse reactions either subside or disappear with discontinued use. In 1987, FDA started requiting all foaming detergent bath products not labeled as intended for exclusive adult use to display the caution statement in addition to directions for use.
• Feminine deodorant sprays intended for use in the genital area-- are for external use only and should not be applied to broken, irritated or itching skin. A physician should be consulted if persistent, unusual odor or discharge occurs, The statement instructs users to discontinue immediately if rash, irritation or discomfort develops. Labeling on self-pressurized containers must state that the product should be sprayed at least 8 inches from the skin.
• Coal-tar color-containing hair-dye products-- contain ingredients that may cause skin irritation on certain individuals, and a preliminary test according to the product's accompanying directions should first be made. Users are cautioned not to dye eyelashes or eyebrows because doing so may cause blindness. In addition, the ammonia, soaps, detergents, conditioning agents, and dyes in hair-dye products are all strong eye irritants and could also cause allergic reactions in other areas. (See "Hair Dye Dilemmas" in the April 1993 FDA Consumer.)

The following products require explicit warnings, though not with specific wording:

• Depilatories and hair straighteners-- are highly alkaline; if they are used incorrectly, they may cause serious skin irritation.
• Shampoos, rinses and conditioners-- can cause eye problems that range from irritation to permanent damage. If the eye's cornea is scratched or otherwise damaged, a contaminated product could cause infection. These cosmetics, as well as others that contain water, usually have antimicrobials that discourage growth of bacteria.
• Nail builders (elongators, extenders, hardeners, and enamels)-- can cause irritation, inflammation and infection of the nail bed and nail fold (where the nail meets the finger) due to residual traces of the methacrylate monomers. Also, nail hardeners and enamels often contain formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, which may cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them. In addition, the solvents or plasticizers may be irritating. Nail enamels that are also nail hardeners cause the most problems. Their high resin content or low concentration of plasticizer seals the nail surface to air and makes the nail too brittle. Another frequent problem is flammability during and shortly after application. These products require a flammability caution.
• Flammable products such as aerosol hair sprays containing alcohol and isobutane propellant-- include caution statements on the label. Also, the label usually cautions about avoiding heat, fire and smoking during use until the product is fully dry. Last year, FDA received reports of a fatality that occurred from burns suffered when a woman's hair ignited. Apparently, she tried to light a cigarette before her hair spray had completely dried.

Manufacturers often use warning statements on labels when there is even a small chance of a problem. Baby products often contain such warnings. Baby powder. for example, if used carelessly and accidentally inhaled by the baby in large amounts, can block the infant's bronchial and lung passages and cause suffocation. (For more about cosmetic safety, see "Cosmetic Safety: More Complex Than at First Blush" in the November 1991 FDA Consumer.)

Cosmetic labels are more than product advertising. They connect cosmetic science with consumer protection by providing a means for consumers to know what's in a product and how to safely use it. A wise consumer will take the time to read the label to get the best value and results without incurring any of the possible harmful effects.

source: FDA consumer

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Estée Lauder Cosmetic

By the time the revolutionary fragrance Youth-Dew was introduced in 1953, the Estée Lauder Company had already won a reputation for innovation, research and quality.

Today, Estée Lauder's skincare, makeup and fragrance collections exemplify the best that technology, science and art can achieve. The Estée Lauder name on a product is recognised in over 100 countries for quality maintained and promises kept. We welcome you to discover all that we have to offer.

Cosmetic Dentistry

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dental procedures refer to procedures which allow a tooth to be restored to its natural looking beauty, or procedures which enhance a smile’s esthetic appearance. If you have ever had your teeth bleached, or a crown or tooth-colored filling placed in your mouth, you have had a cosmetic dental procedure done. Cosmetic dentistry can give back a youthful smile to someone middle-aged or older, or allow instant correction of bad teeth to a much better end result.

BEFORE AFTER

What kinds of dental problems can cosmetic dentistry address?

The dental situations cosmetic dentistry can possibly address include:

• Missing teeth or spaces between teeth.
• Darkened, yellowed or grey, stained teeth.
• Crooked teeth or "mismatched" teeth.
• "Gummy" smiles, where a larger proportion of the gums show when smiling.
• Too small, too large, too short or too thin teeth.
• Change silver amalgam fillings to natural appearing, tooth-colored restorations.
• Replace old crowns that show black lines with non-metal crowns.

Cosmetic dentistry gives people a chance to have a smile that conveys the right messages for their personal and professional life: confidence, strength, happiness, acceptance, friendship. Through a variety of circumstances, a person may find themselves not liking their smile. Maybe they got into a fight, car accident, or fell down. Maybe certain medical conditions, such as being born with dark staining of teeth, or personal situations made it difficult to care for their smile. Maybe over time their teeth naturally yellowed, darkened, or became crooked. These people are given the opportunity to restore their smile to match their overall image, so they don’t feel embarrassed of their appearance.

What kinds of cosmetic dental procedures are there?

Cosmetic dental treatment covers a variety of procedures. To name a few, these include procedures that whiten teeth, correct a "gummy" smile, "straighten" crooked teeth, and fill gaps in between teeth. These procedures use either porcelain or plastic to properly restore teeth cosmetically.

Is the purpose of cosmetic dentistry for looks only?

Some people think that cosmetic dental procedures are for appearance only, and have nothing to do with the ability to bite and chew. These people will be surprised to learn that when cosmetic dentistry is properly done, it incorporates the health and function of your teeth as well. The materials used are incredibly strong. They can withstand normal chewing and last for years and years. Depending on which procedures are performed, cosmetic dentists address the way the biting and chewing surfaces of teeth occlude or come together.

How long do cosmetic dental procedures take?

The length of time for a patient’s cosmetic dental treatment depends on the type of procedure or procedures required. In other words, every patient is unique. For some patients, cosmetic dental treatment can be completed in one appointment. For others, preliminary work may have to be done first before procedures can be started. Each dental procedure itself also takes different amounts of time. For example, a tooth-colored restoration not needing to be processed by a laboratory can be completed in one appointment. Bleaching teeth (in office), on average, may take about one to two sessions. However, the majority of cosmetic dental problems can be corrected in as little as two visits.

Can cosmetic dentistry alone help my dental situation?

Sometimes other dental specialists must first treat a patient before the cosmetic dentist can begin. Examples of such cases may be patients who first require orthodontics (braces) to "move" teeth; gum or bone surgery to create a more normal gum appearance; or "implant" surgery to properly restore a specific dental problem. (Implants are titanium screws that are surgically placed in the bone of either the upper or lower jaw, on which a tooth-colored crown or bridge is placed.)

What changes have you seen with your cosmetic dentistry patients?

One of the most rewarding parts of cosmetic dentistry for me is the positive changes I’ve seen patients go through. The catalyst is the enhanced smile, but the smile becomes such a part of the patient that it affects how the person sees him or herself. The patient hears endless compliments, which lead to more smiling, which leads to a more friendly appearance, and a happier person. This in turn affects how the patient views his or her personal life, overall appearance, career, relationships and even life itself. The emotional and psychological changes are amazing.

Most people who have lived with their problem dental situation for years don’t realize how their smile and their life can change more positively when it is corrected. Cosmetic dentistry covers a wide-range of procedures and can address a multitude of dental situations.

source : cosmetic dentistry hawaii

How to Enhance Your Cleavage with Makeup

Want to wear a low cut dress for a special night on the town? What if you desire more cleavage? As a woman that wears a B cup sized bra I know sometimes woman desire a little more fullness to their cleavage.

There is one way you can enhance the look of your cleavage. Through the power of makeup! And it's less costly than plastic surgery. Here are some steps to creating the cleavage you want without paying for pricey plastic surgery.

1. First you'll need some makeup supplies. If you already have an extensive makeup collection, you may already have everything you need. Here are the tools you'll need:
Two blush brushes: an angled blush brush and a long blender brush. Blush or eye shadow in the following colors: taupe, deep brown, off-white and yellow. You will also need bronzer shadow and a push up bra.

2. Make sure your chest area is dry. Think of your skin as your canvas. You'll want clean and dry skin just as you would when applying makeup to your face. Make sure to dry yourself off completely after bathing.

3. Put on your push up bra. You will need something to give you a lift before applying your makeup. You can purchase a Wonderbra or another bra that has padding and a push up effect. Now you're ready to apply your makeup.

4. Take a blush or eyeshadow shade one or two shades lighter than your skin tone and apply it between your breasts using your long blender brush. Apply this highlight color in an up and down motion.

5. With your angled brush apply a blush two shades darker than your skin tone to your upper cleavage area. Start from the middle of your breasts and extend up and around in an arching type fashion. You'll want to go just inside the edge of your clothing so no one can see the edge of your makeup. Use a back and forth motion when applying.

6. Using your long blender brush with the lighter shade highlight above and below the dark area you applied in the above step. Extend back down into the highlighted area between your breasts.

7. Blend the makeup for smooth look. You can finish off the look by using a bronzer all over if you'd like.

8. Practice until you get it right. It's ok if you don't get it right the first time. With a little practice you'll master the skill.

Now that you know how to create an enhanced bustline you're ready to put on your cleavage baring dress for that night on the town. And your new technique is much cheaper than plastic surgery.

source : associatedcontent article