Know Your Skin Type and Optimize Your Skin Care Routine

You need to know your skin type to optimize your skin care routine. Over time this will save you money and get you better results. Here are a couple of questions to help you correctly identify the type of skin you have.

Wash your face in the morning with just water and use no moisturizer. How does your face feel by noon?

Dry and tight

Comfortable

A little oily thru the T-zone

Oily over most of your face?

What size are your pores?

Almost invisible

Somewhat noticeable

Larger in the T-zone

Large

Dry Skin

By noon, dry skin will probably still feel dry and possibly tight. The pores are generally almost invisible. The skin’s texture is very fine and the skin is prone to redness and flakiness. This type of skin ages more quickly than other skin types.

Normal Skin

Your face will feel neither dry nor oily by noon. The pores appear somewhat visible. The texture is smooth and the skin usually has good color and elasticity. This is the least problematic of all the skin types.

Combination Skin

Combination skin is exactly that. It will be a little dry and a little oily within 3 or 4 hours of washing your face. Your cheeks will feel dryer than the forehead, nose and chin, commonly know as the T-zone. The pores generally appear larger in the T-zone than they are on the cheeks. The texture is a little coarser than normal or dry skin.

Oily Skin

By noon your face will be noticeably oily. Oily skin has large pores that are visible all over the face and has a texture that is quite coarse. Although this skin can be blemish prone, one advantage is that this skin type does not wrinkle as quickly as normal or dry skin.

By identifying your skin type you will better understand why a certain cleanser or moisturizer may be better suited for your particular needs. Before spending money on cosmetics, ask questions and choose products to address the challenges that your skin type presents. By doing this you will spend your cosmetic dollars more wisely and will see better results from your skin care regime.

TO PURCHASE PRODUCTS FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE GO TO:

http://www.marykay.ca/dgrove

The Causes for Sensitive Skin and How to Care for It

Sensitive skin challenges us to analyze what is going on with our bodies. Are the reactions sensitivities or allergies? The difference is that allergies trigger an immune response while sensitivities do not. Food intolerance or sensitivity may cause symptoms from eczema to dandruff. If you are a sensitive individual, pay attention to small changes you make in your daily routine: foods, shampoos, cosmetics, stress level, to make sure you are attributing the sensitivity to the correct food or product.

Sensitive skin tends appear as thin and delicate with a tendency to redness and irritability. B vitamin deficiencies can cause dry, flaky, sensitive skin. Try taking a B complex vitamin and you may see an improvement in the itching and dryness of your skin. As well this nutritional group is great for stress prone individuals.

To find a good skin care regime, look for fragrance free products that are gentle and noncomedogenic. Patch test each new product in an inconspicuous area of the face or throat to check for sensitivity. It is best to test each product alone. Try only one new product in a particular area. If there is no reaction it is safe to use. Keep in mind that some allergies are caused by combinations. A friend of mind could eat cheese on Tuesday and tomatoes on Wednesday but if she ate them both on the same day she would break out in hives. A product used alone may be fine but combined with another may cause a reaction. This is a good reason to use skin products from the same line. They are designed to work together.

Keep notes on what you try and the dates so that you can tell if it is a delayed reaction. There was a point in my life where occasionally the skin on my eyes would become itchy, red and dry. I went to a doctor and without asking any questions he told me I was allergic to makeup and to never wear it again. I went for food allergy testing, tried all sorts of changes to my skin care program and could not figure it out. Then after about two years I realized that it only occurred around holidays. As a young mom, that was the only time I would bother with nail polish. I was sensitive to something in the polish and the small amount of contact with it when I washed my face or applied makeup was enough to trigger a reaction. It was also high stress time in my life. Once I realized the cause and eliminated the nail polish, the skin on my eyes returned to normal. I tried polish again years later and find I am ok with it now. I suspect it was the combination of stress and the ingredients in the product.

Sensitive skin makes finding a skin care regime that works for you a little more difficult. The results of making the effort are worth the time because you will have beautiful skin that finally feels comfortable and looks fantastic!

For more FREE expert advice and to purchase products for sensitive skin, go to dalegrove.com. Dale Kathryn Grove is an entrepreneur and social media enthusiast and an expert on skin care.

How to Restore Thick Full Eyelashes

Thick beautiful lashes are like putting a frame on a picture and have been a hallmark of beauty since time immemorial. With age, however many women experience thinning, brittle lashes and a less than perfect lash line.

CAUSES OF EYELASH LOSS

First, rule out any underlying medical problems. These can be allergies to makeup, an under active thyroid, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy, malnutrition, or certain diseases. Check with your doctor to make sure that there are no health issues or medications that could be causing the problem.

With the exception of medical issues where certain medications are the cause of eyelash loss, it is often caused by a few easily rectified problems: going to bed without removing your eye-makeup and mascara, using eye-makeup you are allergic to, the involuntary act of pulling on your eyelashes.

SOLUTIONS

Waterproof mascara is notoriously difficult to remove. Left on overnight, mascara can cause lash loss due to damage caused by involuntarily rubbing of the eyes. To prevent this use a gentle, oil free eye makeup remover. Apply on a cotton pad and hold it over the lashes for a few seconds before gently sweeping the makeup off. You may need to apply the remover a couple of times if you applied several coats of mascara in the morning. Be careful not to tug or pull at the lashes. Next cleanse your face as you normally would.

If you have a sensitivity to particular eye-makeup product you will probably notice a burning or itching after it has been applied. It may not happen right away so sometimes it can be a challenge to identify which item it is. If possible stop using anything on your eyes until the redness and itching goes away. Then use one product to check for sensitivity. If it seems fine, add one more product the next day repeating the process until you identify the product you are sensitive to. Eliminate that particular item from your daily routine and your eyelash growth should improve.

A medication for the treatment of glaucoma, XALATAN, may slowly increase growth and thickness of eyelashes however there are other side effects may make it an undesirable solution. This drug can cause permanent darkening of eye color as well as darkening of the eyelid and eyelashes, burning and stinging, eye redness and blurred vision

Once the cause for the eyelash loss is identified and solved, your lashes will start growing back. In six months you can expect a noticeable difference. Until that happens, you can use eyeliner and false eyelashes to create the appearance of thicker lashes.

For more FREE expert advice and to find out how to purchase one of the best selling eye makeup removers on the market, go to dalegrove.com. Dale Kathryn Grove is an entrepreneur and social media enthusiast.

5 Skin Care Tips for Men... or Real Men Use Skin Care!

You just looked in the mirror and thought, “Man, I’m getting old.” The job market is tight right now and often available, new positions go to the younger, more energetic men. If you are willing to step outside of your comfort zone, you can change your appearance to a more youthful version of yourself!

Personal grooming routines for men can take minutes a day however they can shave years off your face. Following 5 simple steps can rejuvenate your face, your confidence and possibly your career prospects.

1. Use a cleansing bar designed for men as opposed to regular soaps which can be harsh and drying. These bars maintain the ph balance, as well as cleanse and buff the skin. Your face will appear smooth and healthy-looking.

2. Follow shaving with an aftershave gel to soothe the skin. These products shield against razor burn and will leave you feeling comfortable and refreshed.

3. Use a moisturizer with an SPF to hydrate and refine facial lines. You want at least an SPF of 25 that provides UVA and UVB protection. By helping to shield the skin from the harmful rays of the sun, you will help to prevent premature aging of your skin.

4. Use a lip mask and balm to reduce dry skin and hydrate rough or chapped lips. Your significant other will thank you for this too!

5. Handcreams provide instant relief for hard working hands. Dry, rough skin can be tamed by using a good cream with emollients that smooth, moisturize and help condition the hands.

Rather than using your wife's skin care, go buy your own. Nothing makes a woman unhappier that not being able to find her stuff! Then, make a commitment to use this routine for a least 21 days to build the habit of good grooming. The results that just minutes a day of proper skin care can produce for you will be worth the effort. Amazed at how good you look, you may just want to continue with it for life!

To purchase these products or for more FREE expert advice on how to present a professional, personal image please visit dalegrove.com. Dale Kathryn Grove is a marketing entrepreneur and social media enthusiast, mother of 3 & grandmother of 4.

To register for our FREE ezine or to receive a sample of our skin care products, please click here

3 Tips to Prevent Age Spots and Look as Young As You Feel

You look in the mirror and there it is… the dreaded age spot. Not just one but several. You’re not old…at least you don’t feel old! What the heck is happening?

These spots would more appropriately be called “sun spots”. Excess melanin in the skin is activated by the sun and areas on your face and hands appear darker than the rest of the skin. Many people notice them first, on the left side of the face if they do a lot of driving as the suns UVB rays can penetrate the window glass. Typically the hands also receive more sun exposure and you may notice age spots there as well. So what can you do about them?

First, if you really want them to fade, you must make a commitment to consistently using a sunscreen every day, rain or shine! This can prevent your age spots from getting larger and/or darker. 25 SPF should be fine for incidental sun exposure. For your face, use a product that is specifically for facial skin. Generally they are suited to all skin types and are noncomedogenic. Some companies also offer a hand cream that contains a sunscreen as well.

Second, use a product that helps restore the skin’s even tone. Even Complexion Essence by Mary Kay has been clinically shown to renew the skin's natural, uniform tone by helping reduce conspicuous dark spots and reverse skin discoloration. This product is suitable for all skin types and all skin tones. Results will be apparent in as little as 4 weeks and with continued use, the results are even more impressive.

Third, watch your diet and avoid smoking. Factors that can make you more disposed to age spots are a diet high in saturated fats and refined sugars as well as a lack of vitamins. Smoking is another habit that will damage your skin. Age spots often appear, even as early as the late twenties but are generally more common after the age 50.

Lifestyle factors play a major role in your appearance. Take a few minutes a day to prevent age spots with sunscreen and a topical cream to fade existing spots. Eat well, avoid smoking and not only your skin will improve but your health will improve dramatically.

Dale Kathryn Grove is an entrepreneur and social media enthusiast, mother of 3 & grandmother of 4. For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect, personal image please visit dalegrove.com.

To register for our FREE ezine or to receive a sample of our skin care products, please click here

6 Tips for Perfect Lips and a Soft, Sexy Pout

Beautiful lips tend to be an erogenous zone. So much so that tests by sexual psychologists report the majority of men are far more attracted to women with fuller lips than women with thinner ones. Full lips indicate a greater level of estrogen which suggests greater fertility and good health. Spend a few minutes a day to care for them and then pucker up!

1) Avoid Biting or Licking
Filled with nerve endings, the skin is thinner than the skin on the rest of the face. Biting and licking will damage it and can cause dehydration.

2) Avoid Smoking and Using Straws
Smoking and the use of straws increase lines around the mouth due to puckering required when using them. As well, the chemicals in cigarettes reduce oxygen in the body which is necessary for healthy cell regeneration.

3) Exfoliate Occasionally
A gentle exfoliation of the lips once or twice a week will reduce dry, dead skin cells that tempt some people to bite the skin on their lips. A Satin Lips set works wonders in a very short time.

4) Use an Age Fighting Lip Primer
Create healthier-looking lips by fighting fine lines and wrinkles. Use it inside and outside your lip line, to extend lipstick wear and prevent lipstick and gloss from feathering and bleeding.

5) Protect Your Lips From the Elements by Using a Balm With a Sunscreen
There is very little melanin in the lips and a balm with sunscreen will hydrate them and protect them from damage caused by UVA and UVB rays. Choose a balm with a hint of color to accentuate the mouth. For thinner lips use a light colored balm to make them appear fuller. A full, luscious mouth can handle a more intense color for a more dramatic look.

6) Dramatize
For a more dramatic look, use a liner to define the outline of the mouth. Fill in the outer third of your mouth with pencil and then apply a complimentary lipstick, you create the illusion of fuller and more luscious lips. Add a touch of gloss to accentuate your perfect pout.

Minutes a day with these few simple steps will increase the beauty of your smile and your attractiveness quotient.

5 Beauty Tips for a Confident, Polished Look

Wouldn’t you love to go to a school reunion and have people marvel at how good you look? I was surprised at my 35th reunion, when I realized that all the women who looked really wonderful, in most cases, used cosmetics in high school. When you think about it, there could be a very simple reason. If you used color cosmetics in high school, you might also be more inclined to use skin care products in the coming years. I believe that is the real reason for looking great, well into your forties, fifties and beyond.

If for some reason, I could only use 5 products (I use a lot more) the ones I would choose are facial cleanser, moisturizer, eyeliner, mascara and lip gloss. Most people, even in today’s tight economy, can afford those 5 products. It’s rewarding to use some of the anti-aging products because of the dramatic results you can get in skin texture and firmness. Color cosmetics beyond eyeliner, mascara and lipstick play up your best features and minimize others. However for the sake of streamlining a routine for you, let’s just talk about these first five items.

1) Facial Cleanser
A good facial cleanser will remove impurities on the surface of the skin and if it is a 3-in1 cleanser, it also exfoliates and tones while leaving the skin clean and clear. Quality cleansers will also hydrate the skin to a certain extent.

2) Moisturizer
Look for a moisturizer that is positioned as a skin hydrating product. Buy one specifically for your skin type. These moisturizers will soothe and soften dry skin or can absorb oil for up to 10 hours for combination to oily skin. Don’t forget to apply it to your throat as well.

3) Eyeliner
As we age, our eyelashes thin. Eyeliner applied into the lash line makes the lashes look thicker and more abundant, drawing attention to your eyes. It can be applied sparingly for a more natural look or thicker and smudged for a smoky, dramatic look.

4) Mascara
Mascara lengthens and thickens the lashes, almost like putting a frame on a picture. If you are using only these 5 products, choose lengthening mascara rather than a waterproof one. Waterproof needs to be removed with an oil free eye-makeup remover to prevent damage to the lashes at night. Be sure to use two or three thin coats of mascara, allowing the lashes to dry between each application.

5) Lipstick
Lipstick gives you that extra little punch. Create a statement by using a dramatic color or just deepen the natural tone of your lip by using a softer shade. Either way, lipstick finishes your look! Before purchasing, try a sample in the daylight as the fluorescent lights in stores change the appearance of the color.

Using these five simple steps gets you out the door quickly in the morning, looking polished and confident. As well you will reap the rewards of beautiful skin well into your later years.

5 Tips for Flawless Foundation

Beautiful skin takes work and in most cases is enhanced by artfully applied foundation. Foundations protect the skin, even out skin tone, and give the skin a more radiant appearance. Many foundations contain pigments that brighten the skin and hide imperfections. Guarantee a flawless finish by following a few simple steps.

1) Select a Foundation That is Suitable for Your Skin Type.

There are cream, full-coverage, medium-coverage, creme-to-powder, and mineral powder foundations. Cream and full-coverage are suited to normal to dry skin and will help to moisturize the skin for up to 6 hours. Medium–coverage suits combination to oily skin and controls oil for at least 8 hours. Creme-to-powder foundation and mineral powder foundation are suitable for all skin types. The majority of foundations are now transfer resistant so they won't fade away midday.

2) Select a Foundation Shade That Enhances Your Skin Tone

Foundations come with several undertones; pink, yellow, olive, golden orange and warm brown. The best foundation shade, for you, will disappear on your face as you blend it into your skin. Many women can benefit from a yellow based foundation because it will minimize redness from broken capillaries, rosacea and will also minimize dark circles under the eyes. Pink based shades are generally best for fairer skin tones. Olive undertones are great for women with a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern background, golden orange shades seems to work best for Asian skins unless they are very fair and warm brown shades suit most women from African descent. Be sure to change your foundation shade as needed if your skin tone changes from season to season.

3) Prepare the Skin

Cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize well to guarantees a smooth surface for your foundation. Cleansing and exfoliating with a 3-in1 Cleanser gets rid of dry surface cells that can cause foundation to clump. Moisturizing ensures that the foundation will glide smoothly over the skin. Allow your moisturizer to dry before beginning your foundation application.

4) Foundation Application

Apply liquid or creme foundations by blending a small amount on the pads of your fingertips and then patting the foundation over your face. This ensures a lighter application of color than the older method of putting dots of foundation on the face and then spreading it out. If you need more coverage in certain areas let your foundation dry for a minute or two then apply more in those areas. Some women like to use a sponge for application and this can work well especially around the eyes. I would encourage you to use disposable sponges and throw them out after each application. A used sponge is a breeding ground for bacteria. Blend your foundation well along the jaw line so there is no discernible line where your foundation ends. Finish with a dusting of finely milled, pressed mineral powder in a matching shade to set your makeup.

Apply loose, mineral powder foundation with special application brush. The bristles should be soft, natural hair that let you pick up a precise amount of powder. The shape of the brush should have shorter bristles that are flat across the top. This allows you to easily customize the level of coverage you are able to achieve. Dip your brush into the powder, tap the brush to remove any excess and then the swirl the brush in the lid of the jar to distribute the powder through the bristles. To apply, start in the center of your face and work your way out to the hairline, jaw and across the forehead. For light natural coverage, a thin application should be enough however you can repeat the application if extra coverage is required.

5) Final Note - Remove Your Makeup at Night

Remember, foundation needs a good complexion as a base. All the makeup in the world will not look good over bad skin because it will look like a cover-up and nothing more. At night be sure to cleanse and moisturize to maintain your skin so that you will always look your best.

.Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years. For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here

Can I Use My Wife’s Skin Care Products?

Can I use my wife’s skin care products? Absolutely, if your wife has the same skin type as you, then her skin care regime could solve some of your problems. However the first question you need to ask yourself is why do you want to use them? Is it because you have tight dry skin or is oily skin driving you crazy? Maybe, you are concerned with fine lines and aging? Once you have defined your specific needs you can determine which of her skin care products would be suitable. I recommend purchasing your own skin care products though, because nothing makes a woman unhappier than not being able to find her cleanser or moisturizer.

There are five steps to caring for your skin; cleanse, exfoliate, tone, moisturize and protect. Most men would not be inclined to use a program with that many steps however there are some good products specifically for men on the market that are dual purpose. As well the packaging is more masculine which would be more suitable for throwing them in your gym bag.

Men’s skin is generally thicker than women’s skin and has a tendency to be oilier. A good cleansing bar with exfoliating grains will cleanse and buff the skin at the same time. This type of quality cleansing bar will remove surface impurities and dry, surface skin cells. In some cases if the bar generates enough foam you may not need a shaving cream. However many men do prefer to use one because it creates a comfort zone between their razor and their skin which allows for a cleaner, closer shave.

After shaving, a cooling shave gel will guard against razor irritation, leaving the skin feeling soft and soothed. Botanicals in these products help to tone the skin and restore the PH balance. If your skin is sensitive look for a shave gel that is fragrance and alcohol free.

If you are concerned with fine lines, prevent photo-aging by using an oil free moisturizer with an SPF of at least 25. This will protect your skin from damage caused by both UVA and UVB rays. For deeper wrinkles there are products on the market that contain pentapeptides that will minimize them. However if you have never used a skin regime before I would recommend using a minimum of steps until you are sure you are committed to using them daily.

Using a cleansing bar with exfoliating grains, a shave cream, a cooling after shave gel and a moisturizer with SPF 25 will treat your skin to some pampering that will show you results in a matter of days or weeks. You will notice softer, smoother skin and with continued use a reduction in fine lines.

.Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years. For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here

What Can Microdermabrasion Do For Me?

Microdermabrasion fights wrinkles and improves the texture and tone of the skin. It helps to eliminate age spots, reduce fine lines, improve the texture of acne scars, remove dead skin cells and stimulate the production of collagen. It will refine the skin, usually with noticeable results in a couple of treatments.

The procedure can be done in a salon or at home. Salon treatments are considerably more expensive in both time and money. Requiring expensive equipment and trained professionals, many women opt to use at-home kits that deliver comparable results in much less time. In some cases the retail microdermabrasion sets use the same aluminum oxide crystals used in the salons.

The salon treatment uses either a diamond wand to abrade the skin or a wand that shoots aluminum oxide crystals over the surface of the skin. In both cases newer skin is revealed after the treatment. The price can run from $100 and up for one treatment and it is recommended that you have 6 to 10 treatments. Unless you can afford to spend $600, at a salon, on microdermabrasion treatments, purchasing a home kit for approximately $60 is a better solution for most people.

A two-part home microdermabrasion kit is generally the best option. The first step sloughs off the dead skin cells using aluminum oxide crystals. The second step nourishes and soothes the skin. The products are gentle enough to use twice a week so you will see results in a very short time frame. Before using a microdermabrasion set, cleanse your face and remove all traces of your makeup.

The First Step - Exfoliate: Dampen your face and throat and gently massage a small amount of the cream with the crystals in it, on the surface of the skin. Because you are using your fingertips to apply the product you can gauge how much pressure to use on the more sensitive areas of the face and throat. Avoid the eye and mouth areas. This step exfoliates and reveals the most luminescent skin. Rinse well with lukewarm water to make sure all traces of the crystals are removed. Splash with cool water and pat your face dry.

The Second Step - Replenish: Apply the replenishing cream to the face and throat. This cream contains powerful antioxidants and leaves the skin feeling silky and smooth immediately.

Plan to use your microdermabrasion set twice a week for optimum results, waiting at least two days between treatments. The treatment, although very effective, is also gentle enough to wear your regular skin care and makeup afterwards. Be sure to use a sunscreen when going outdoors because the newer skin that has been exposed will need to be protected from UVA and UVB rays.

For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect, personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years.

Tips for Women Over 50 Who Want to Look 10 Years Younger

Women over 50 can appear at least 10 years younger than they are and are in position to capitalize on their experience and vitality. Why would you want to look and feel younger than you are? It could be vanity, maybe a personal challenge to increase your fitness level, maybe just better health and maybe because you are back on the market as a newly single woman.

Most women will be single for a good portion of their later years. Women who date younger men are referred to as cougars however men have been dating younger women since time began and there is no corresponding term for them. Women should be able to choose who they want to date, and what they want out of life without being referred to in a derogatory way.

I find it interesting that some women in their 50s when approached about starting a skin care routine or using makeup say, “I’m too old to start now.” At 50, we have in most cases at least another 30 years of life left. We are at an age where we have experience, education, money and often, an empty nest. It’s time to really embrace everything life has to offer and do the things we have always put aside because our focus has been on raising a family and working.

Did you know that women, who wear makeup, on average, earn 12% more than women who don’t? When you look good, you feel good and that in turn improves your attitude. I suspect that looking your best improves confidence, which in turn would lead to better on-the-job performance. Purchase a good skin care routine that includes anti-aging products and use it daily. In most cases a quality fragrance-free skin treatment program is safe for even sensitive skin. If you rarely wear color cosmetics take the time to find some that you will be comfortable with. Makeup, that is subtle, will enhance your best features and will make you stand out as someone who cares about their appearance. If you already use color cosmetics you are ahead of the game.

Allot some time in your day to exercise and stretch. Many women these days are active physically and have better health than previous generations. If they do not have a gym membership there are many activities that can tone and firm their physiques while being fun; inline skating, tennis, rock climbing, yoga. I was shocked recently when I took my grandson bowling that it is great activity to firm the gluts and arms.

Clothing choices, in a large way, determine how people see you however it is not necessary to spend lot of money to look good. Reading about clothing trends helps you choose clothing that is fashionable and appropriate for your lifestyle. Whether it is for pleasure or work, choose separates that allow you to mix and match using a couple of basic colors with a few accent colors thrown in. If everything in your closet co-ordinates, dressing in the morning is easy. That will eliminate the “I have nothing to wear syndrome.”

As women in our 50s we are a powerful force in our communities, our work place and our families. Take time for yourself! It energizes you and as Steven Covey believes, it “sharpens the saw.” By deciding to take charge of your appearance, fitness, health, and attitude you open doors that you may have thought closed for you.

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For more FREE expert advice on improving your personal image and personal skin care and beauty routine please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years.

Tips for Women Over 50 Who Want to Look Better Than Ever

Women over 50 are looking better than ever before and have more options open to help them achieve that. We are healthier than previous generations, have more vitality and we want our faces and bodies to display that. In addition to helping us compete in the marketplace, looking our best is marvelous for our self esteem and our attitude towards life. If you feel you are not quite there yet, here are a few things you can do to jumpstart the process.

Stress Causes Frown Lines so Takes Steps to Reduce It
Meditation is a great way to reduce stress. It can be difficult to learn in the beginning however once you have reduced the mindless chatter in your brain you will feel a deep sense of peace. Done regularly twice a day for 20 minutes in the morning and the afternoon, one of the side effects of meditation that you may notice is increased intuition. Steven Covey talks about “Sharpening the Saw” or time spent in renewal. Meditation is one of the best exercises, I know of, for doing just that.

Exercise for Vitality and Increased Flexibility
Staying active now will prevent many health related issues later in life. Choose some aerobic, some stretching and some weight lifting to get a good balance in your exercise routine. Many more types of exercise are available today than ever before; from pole dancing which is extremely strenuous, to belly dancing, yoga, salsa dancing, kick boxing and martial arts as well as the traditional aerobic and weight classes. Exercising not only keeps your body fit, it stimulates synapses and dendrites in your brain.

Eat Healthy Foods and Use Supplements for Optimum Nutrition
You’ve heard it before “You are what you eat.” Choosing healthy nutritious foods not only helps nourish your body and brain but also your skin. By improving your nutrition and water intake you will revitalize every cell in your body. Supplements are a great way to optimize your nutrition when life gets too busy. Learn to be selective in what you consume and your vitality will soar.

Eliminate Negativity and Negative People in Your Life
Give up gossip. Negativity is a drain on your mental resources and your health. Choose to be around people and places that nourish your soul. It is hard to let people leave your life when they have been friends for a long time however their negativity hurts not only themselves, it drains you. Be a source of joy in other people lives and watch your own life flourish.

Take Personal Time for You
Take a couple of hours a week to spend on things you love to do. You can share this time with friends or use it as solitary time to focus on your goals and aspirations. Getting up early in the morning when everyone else is asleep can be a very productive time for many people because there are no interruptions. The same can be true of time spent after everyone else has gone to bed.

Small steps over a few weeks time integrating some of these ideas into your life will reap many benefits; a sense of peace and contentment, more energy and vitality, better health, a happier lifestyle and a renewed sense of accomplishment. Aren’t you worth it? Find what works for you and “Make your life a mission not an intermission!”

For more FREE expert advice on improving your personal image and personal skin care and beauty routine please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years.

Skin Care Tips for Women with Normal to Dry Skin

Normal to dry skin can leave a woman apathetic about her skin care regime because normally the complexion is clean and clear. However, because the skin is thinner than oily skin, it does require special care, as well, if you want to maintain beautiful skin throughout your life. Well worth the effort, you will be rewarded with a younger and softer complexion long into the future.

Women with either normal to dry skin will want to use a cleanser that cleanses and refreshes and increases skin hydration. Make sure the product is gentle so that it leaves the skin feeling clean and moist. Fragrance free products are best and will help prevent sensitivities and allergic reactions especially when the skin is thin and is quite dry.

You may not need to use a toner if you use a three-in-one cleanser which contains botanicals that freshen and brighten the skin. These products are fast and time effective for women who feel they have little time to spend on caring for their complexion. In some cases they also contain exfoliant beads and vitamins and replace the normal step of masking as well as providing anti-aging benefits.

Both normal and dry skins require good hydration to prevent moisture loss and fine lines. Using oil-free day and night creams provides the moisturization that these skin types need to maintain soft, supple, beautiful skin. If the skin is very dry, you may want to use an intense moisturizer at night with vitamins and humectants that attract moisture and increase hydration. Often these products will maintain the increased moisturization for up to 10 hours.

Prevent photo aging by using a facial sunscreen with at least an SPF 25 that is targeted to block damaging UV rays. If the sunscreen also has pentapeptides, fruit acids or vitamins in it, you will get anti-aging benefits and sun protection in one product. Dry to normal skin ages more quickly than oily skin so using a sun screen is an important step in maintaining smooth, wrinkle free skin.

Another product that could be useful to you is a microdermabrasion set to slough off the dry, opaque surface skin cells that prevent the luminosity of the newer skin cells below from showing through. This will also allow the other products you use to hydrate the surface layer of the skin more effectively. A two part microdermabrasion set that includes a replenishing step with antioxidants will leaves dry to normal skin feeling soothed and smooth immediately

Younger women often do not need an eye cream however; if fine lines become evident you could add one to your skin care regime as well. In the teens, if fine lines have appeared on the skin, you may be using a cleanser that is too harsh. Try switching to a gentler cleanser and monitor your progress to see if that alleviates the problem.

The most important ingredient to any skin care regime, though, is consistency. Use your cleanser and moisturizer day and night, the microdermabrasion twice a week and the anti-aging sunscreen every morning. If you do, you will still have a beautiful, luminescent complexion twenty or thirty years down the road.

For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect, personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years.

Skin Care Tips for Women with Combination or Oily Skin

Skin Care Tips for Women with Combination or Oily Skin ~ Oily and combination skin and the resulting blemishes challenge many people on a daily basis. Learn to care for your skin in a way that suits your particular skin type. Well worth the effort, you will be rewarded with a clearer, cleaner and softer complexion.

Younger women with either combination or oily skin will want to use a cleanser that controls the oily areas of their face without drying out the delicate cheek and eye areas. Make sure the product is gentle so that it leaves the skin feeling refreshed and clean but not dry. Fragrance free products are best and will help prevent sensitivities and allergic reactions especially when the skin has active blemishes.

For blemish prone skin, add a salicylic acid toner with at least 2% concentration to help control oil and blemishes. It will take approximately six weeks to see maximum results and from that point on the toner will actually prevent breakouts. Use the toner morning and night; however you will want to avoid the sensitive eye area. Never squeeze or poke pimples as it can cause scarring in many cases.

For combination skin, you may not need to use a toner if you use a three-in-one cleanser which contains botanicals that freshen and brighten the skin. These products are fast and time effective for women who feel they have little time to spend on caring for their complexion. In some cases they also contain exfoliant beads and vitamins and replace the normal step of masking as well as providing anti-aging benefits.

Both oily and combination skins need hydration. Using day and night creams, that are oil free, provides moisturization without increasing the oil on the surface of the skin. For photo aging protection you may also want to use a facial sunscreen with at least an SPF 25 that is light and noncomedogenic. It would also be beneficial if the sunscreen has pentapeptides, fruit acids or vitamins in it so that you get anti-aging benefits and sun protection in one product.

Another product that could be useful to you is a microdermabrasion set to slough off the dry, opaque surface skin cells that prevent the luminosity of the newer skin cells below from showing through. This will also allow the other products you use to hydrate the surface layer of the skin more effectively. If you have any active blemishes do not use a microdermabrasion product in those areas. Removing the head from a pimple may cause scarring or an infection.

Younger women in their teens and twenties often do not need an eye cream however; if fine lines become evident you could add one to your skin care regime as well. In the teens, if the skin is normally oily and fine lines have appeared, you may be using a cleanser that is too harsh. Try switching to a gentler cleanser and monitor your progress to see if that alleviates the problem.

The most important ingredient to any skin care regime, though, is consistency. Use your cleanser or cleansing bar and moisturizer day and night, the microdermabrasion twice a week and the anti-aging sunscreen every morning. If you do, you will still have a beautiful, luminescent complexion twenty or thirty years down the road.

For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect, personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years.

Should My Teen Be Using Skin Care?

Should my teen be using skin care? The tween and teen years can be extremely difficult for children with acne prone skin. Over-active oil glands, that come with puberty, and the resulting blemishes create the chance that your child will be ridiculed by other kids.

In school my nephew was a good looking boy however he had really bad acne. I remember being at the school and overhearing some of the girls talk about him as he walked by. “That Sean Lindggard would be a nice looking guy but look at his skin, gross!” My heart sank, because in school, your social life is everything. His birthday was coming up so I did something I wasn’t sure he would appreciate. I bought him some skin care; a cleansing bar, some 2% salicylic acid toner to control the blemishes and a hydrating product that would also control the oil for up to 10 hours.

Guys especially, are not good at using a skin care regime however Sean was highly motivated and relatively faithful to it. It didn’t take long for the results to become visible. A couple weeks later I was at the school again and another group of girls were standing in the gym as he walked by. This time they did a double take. One of the girls commented “Hey, did you see Sean, WOW, he is looking good!”

There are numerous skin care program for kids these days that will eliminate blemishes. This will help them improve their skin and in the process recover their self esteem. Look for products that are from a reputable company and that offer a guarantee.

Make sure your child understands how to use the products correctly. As a kid I had very oily skin and had to wash my face at least three times a day. At one point I decided more is better and I was mixing all sorts of products. The skin around my eyes became so dehydrated it looked like I was 80 years old. A few instructions will ensure proper results from your teen’s skin care investment.

More than anything else we want our kids to be happy and healthy. Self esteem in the tweens and teens can be almost non-existent. If a lack of self esteem is caused by acne prone skin, a small price to pay is the purchase of a quality skin care program for them. Seeing an improvement in their skin and their self esteem is priceless.

.Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years. For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here

Look Good, Feel Better, Beauty for Women with Cancer

Look Good, Feel Better, an organization for women with cancer, offers makeovers to improve the self-esteem of women who are fighting for their lives. Doctors take care of the medical issues however the women are left with changes in their skin, nails, hair and faces. At a time in their lives when they need an extremely positive attitude to fight this disease, they look in the mirror and see a woman they don’t recognize.

Each patient receives a box of cosmetics that includes cleanser, toner, moisturizer, eye makeup remover, foundation, powder, eye makeup and blush, eye liner, lip liner, eye brow pencils and mascara. They are also instructed in skin care and makeup application as well as how to choose a wig and what to do as their hair falls out. The products are donated by many of the cosmetic companies all across the country. Members of these same companies volunteer their time to teach the women in attendance how to care for skin that is now considered sensitive and dry. Learning to create eye brows that may be missing or are soon to be missing and how to hide the dark under eye circles resulting from their treatment is information they are eager to learn.

Many of the women coming in the door looked scared and unhappy however by the time they left, they had found friends with a common factor… they were not alone! One woman that I assisted, 83 year old Lisette, was a spunky little French woman who told me she had been washing her face over the kitchen sink for the last three years because she couldn’t bear to look at her face in the mirror. As the morning advanced I could see the change in her attitude. Her skin now moisturized and with a glow aided by a good foundation, looked radiant. The dark circles under her eyes had been minimized and she had applied a small amount of eye color and mascara, a little blush and lipstick. Lisette was smiling! “I think I’ll go dancing tonight!” she exclaimed.

The experience in working with the Look Good, Feel Better patients changed my life. I always thought that volunteering was about giving to someone else. I had no idea of the gifts they would give me in return. Even with their fear and uncertainty, these women had optimism and strength I could not believe. I left each session feeling thankful for knowing them and feeling that I was one of the luckiest people on earth.

.Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years. For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here

Create a Great First Impression with the Attraction Factor

Personality eventually trumps looks if we are given the time to display what we have to offer. People who maybe were less attractive to begin with, become more attractive as you get to know them. In reality the "attraction factor" depends on two things; a great first impression and a winning personality as the relationship deepens.

Personality is important but unless we make the most of our first impression with new people we meet, often we won't get a second chance. The tag line in an ad on TV, featuring Ellen DeGeneres, was something like, "inner beauty is nice but outer beauty is what is really important". This being the total opposite of what we have always been told growing up. I loved the commercial because in addition to being funny, it really is so true. We still are drawn to attractive people first.

At a jam session I attended with a friend recently, a man came in who looked like he was down and out and could have been homeless. With an unkempt, long beard and hair, crooked teeth, baggy clothes, (it was dark so I couldn't tell how clean they were), I probably would not have even looked at him, had it not been for my friend's enthusiastic reception of him. Then he jumped up on the stage and began to play the guitar and sing. Amazed at his talent but shocked at the first impression he made, I did take the time to talk with him after the set. He was a wonderful, intelligent man.

In most cases, especially in a business situation, you would not have that second chance. Taking the time to present yourself in the best possible light, utilizing dress, grooming and language, is always worth the effort. Prospective employers, future friends or mates will be drawn to you rather than repelled.

I've heard people say that "If they don't like me the way I am naturally, I don't need them in my life". That may be true in a perfect world. However, I am sure you will agree that we all have some prejudices where appearance is concerned. It does matter if we want that new client, that new job or a promotion.

Realistically, who would you choose if you were deciding to spend your hard earned money or were hiring for a position in your company. Think about the people you have met recently and what your first impression of them was. How did they look? Were they well groomed, just presentable or scruffy. How did they speak? Did they use correct grammar, slang or were they vulgar. Did they arrive early, just barely on time or were they late?

Ralph Waldo Emerson said that "Who you are speaks so loudly, I can't hear what you are saying". I believe no truer words were ever spoken. If we want to move up in our careers, set an example for our children, show our friends and family how important they are to us, then we owe it to ourselves to take the time to present ourselves in the best possible light.

Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years. For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here

Anti-Aging Products Can Make You Look 10 Years Younger

Every woman can look 10 years younger using anti-aging products that renew and revitalize the skin. They prevent fine lines and improve the texture of the skin by chemically speeding up the exfoliation of the skin’s surface. Many also include a sun protection factor that helps to prevents photo-aging which is known to produce the majority of wrinkles on one’s face.

The skin constantly renews itself however as we get older that renewal takes longer and is not as efficient. Anti-aging products that use vitamin derivatives, pentapeptides and sunscreens targeted to block damaging UV rays are an effective and esthetically pleasing way to speed up that process. Generally these skin treatment items are more suitable for facial skin because they are lighter and designed to be used on most skin types.

Anti-aging products if used daily and before wrinkles have set in will prevent many fine lines from forming. Used later in life they help reduce fines and improve the texture of the skin dramatically. These products are considered treatment products and are not moisturizers. You will need to use them along with your daily routine of cleansing and moisturizing to maintain proper hydration of the skin. There are many choices in skin supplements that will improve the tone and texture of the skin; anti-aging systems, firming eye creams, complexion brighteners, line reducers, microdermabrasion sets, eye revitalizers, age fighting lip treatments, eye gels for soothing puffiness and lip masks and balms.

If you are going to take the time to use anti-aging treatment products, take the time to also use them on other areas of your body as well. Neglecting your throat and décolleté shows telltale signs of aging. They receive the same exposure to the sun and wind as your face does. One other area you might want to pay special attention to is your hands. Using a good hand cream with a sunscreen will help to prevent age spots and will create a more youthful impression.

Why would you want to look younger than you are? There are a couple of compelling reasons. First, it is a given that many women will be left on their own later in life. Whether you are looking for a new mate or a new job, appearance makes a big difference in whether or not you will be successful. Second, in today’s tight economy, people are competing for jobs, often with people much younger than them. Youth is synonymous with more up-to-date skills, flexibility and eagerness. Still, in today’s society, we judge people by appearance and if the “cover of the book” is not appealing we pass it by. We have a short time to make a great first impression and using anti-aging products to keep you looking your absolute best can help you do that.

.Dale Kathryn Grove, formally trained as a fashion designer, has been in the fashion and beauty industry for many years. For more FREE expert advice on how to present a perfect personal image please visit dalegrove.com. To register for our FREE ezine, please click here