BellaSugar -- You're beautiful.

Tea Time: Can You Drink Your Way to Clear Skin?

bellasugar — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:00:04 -0700

I'm a firm believer in eating well to keep your skin healthy, but The Republic of Tea hopes you'll drink your way to a clearer complexion. Its Get Gorgeous tea ($10) has been out for a while now, promising to clarify skin with its blend of organic red tea and herbs.

It's a rooibos tea from Africa, and I'm a fan of this stuff in general. It's smooth and has a vaguely nutty flavor. The blend also has chamomile (said to soothe skin) and the chaste berry, which is meant to balance hormones so you break out less often during that time of the month. It all sounds great, but unfortunately, it isn't the sippable skin savior you might hope for. After drinking this tea for a few weeks, I didn't see any discernible difference in my skin. It can't hurt to have a cup, but keep your expectations in check.

Faking Good Jeans: Beauty Launches from Denim Lines

bellasugar — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:00:51 -0700

Living in your jeans just got a little more literal. Diesel just celebrated the anniversary of Fuel For Life, and this month, Earnest Sewn launches Simple Serum (right, $45-65), an anti-aging skincare product that comes in only three iterations: face, body, and eye. The mini-line includes the active ingredients like Argiraline, a peptide made from natural proteins. For now, it's only available at Earnest Sewn stores, but that's likely to change.

On the opposite end of the simplicity spectrum, next month Rock & Republic is releasing a cosmetics line that was three years in the making and includes a compact bearing the company's logo in 445 Swarovski crystals. If you don't have an extra $225 lying around for this bling-ed out bronzer, there are over 100 other products to choose from, including primers, gel eyeliners, and natural hair makeup brushes. You'll be able to find them at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus. Get a first look below.

The Plane Truth: How To Look Great While Flying

bellasugar — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 08:00:17 -0700

It's hard to look as chic as a celebrity when you step off an airplane, especially when you land in Hawaii with a scarf and boots on (yeah, I've done it).

The recycled, dry cabin air can cause parched skin and hair. An article last year in Environmental Science & Technology suggests that "interactions between body oils and ozone found in airplane cabins could lead to the formation of chemical byproducts that might worsen nasal irritation, headaches, dry eyes and lips, and other common air traveler complaints." Yikes. Wide-body planes have ozone-neutralizing catalysts in their ventilation systems, but narrower aircrafts often don't. To find out how to stay beautiful when flying the friendly skies, just

Before You Stain Another Set of 800 Thread Count Sheets...

bellasugar — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:00:25 -0700

The problem: You have a pimple. You dab some spot treatment on it, go to bed, and wake up with two problems: the pimple's still there and your beloved designer sheets have streaks of telltale orange from your acne product. Blast! Resolved to never have this happen to me again, I consulted New York City dermatologist Dr. Doris J. Day for some answers.

"At any concentration, even 2.5%, benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabric," she says. "Even if you use a benzoyl peroxide cleanser and don't rinse well enough, it'll bleach your towel and sheets (but it doesn't bleach your skin). Retin-A can also stain because it has a preservative in it, but generally, if you're getting stains from using a retinol product, chances are you're using too much." To find out what Dr. Day thinks is more effective for spots than benzoyl peroxide anyway,

Chanel Kick-Starts Fall With a Few New Face Products

bellasugar — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:00:52 -0700

The busy bees in Chanel's laboratories have been very busy with their Précision skincare range. A few new cleansers and face toners are aimed at removing dirt, grease, makeup and all of the other environmental pollutants and impurities that wreak havoc on your skin during the course of the day.

Chanel has decided to incorporate phytoremediation — the process of using plants to help absorb pollutants into this new line of cleansers and toners. The main ingredient is tulip tree extract, a waxy substance that promises to trap the unwanted particles and filter them out.

There are three different product sets that have been developed to suit each of the different skin types. Confort consists of a foaming mousse cleanser, a cleansing milk and a toner that contains lily extract to moisturize, soothe and tone sensitive skin. Balance includes a foaming cleanser and gentle toner with mallow extract, a smoothing and softening ingredient for normal to combination skin. Lastly, Purity consists of a gel cleanser and mattifying toner made with meadow-sweet extract, a flower with astringent properties that is best suited for combination to oily skin.

I've tried all of the cleansers and for my sensitive and combination skin, I really love Lait Confort (cleansing milk) the most. Its thin and gentle consistency leaves my skin feeling soft and fresh without any trace of irritation. Plus, it has a wonderfully light floral scent that sticks around even after you wash your face. To find out the names and the cost of each of the products,

How-To: Hide a Sunglass Tan

bellasugar — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:00:10 -0700

As much as I try to protect myself from the sun's harmful rays, I sometimes end up with the telltale white streaks on my temples of the sunglass tan. And with the oversize shades trend still going strong, the area around the brows and dark circles — er, orbital area — also can begin to look a whiter shade of pale. Read on for some quick fixes — and be glad you weren't wearing shutter shades.

Are Your Undertones Warm or Cool?

bellasugar — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:00:40 -0700

Many years ago, my aunts went through a major phase/obsession. What season were you? What color palettes would go with said season? Were you a Winter or a Summer? On and on they went — they even had swatch books with fabric samples carefully customized by a color expert so that the guesswork was taken out of each and every shopping trip. At the time I thought it was over the top, but they were definitely on to something!

Have you ever wondered which makeup colors would complement your own skin, hair, and eye colors? Choosing the wrong ones will give you that blah, worn-out look. Choosing the right colors, however, will accentuate your natural features and make you glow. Take my quiz to find out if your undertones are considered a warm or a cool, and I'll give you some helpful tips on how to make your color selections a breeze. Note: It's best to do this test in natural light with a freshly washed face. Also, pull your hair back and keep your shoulders bare so you get a true sense of your natural coloring.

Source

Product Review: Nars Skin Potent EFA Cream

bellasugar — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 12:00:40 -0700

About a month ago, Nars released a new, highly concentrated, skin-restoring face moisturizer called Lipid Support Potent EFA Cream ($70 for 1.7 oz). This thick, lightly scented lotion is formulated with lipids (Omega-3 fatty acids and ceramides), acai and hyaluronic acid to replenish your skin and to create a more hydrated texture. In turn, this helps aid in skin-cell regeneration and decrease wrinkles and create an overall more supple appearance.

Now, I don't know if you're aware of this, but some ingredients can break down when exposed to the air — and that means your skin isn't getting all of the ingredients it should. I like this container aesthetically, but I love how the airtight seal protects the cream's active ingredients from overexposure to sunlight, germs, and oxygen.

I really like the cream, especially for nighttime, but the one drawback is that has a slightly heavy and greasy texture. It claims to be suitable for all skin types, but due to its intensely hydrating formula, I would suggest it for those with dry skin.

See reader reviews of this product and add your own here!

DIY Spa Treatment: A Relaxing Herbal Steam

bellasugar — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 10:00:36 -0700

Taking a few minutes out of your day a few times a week for a relaxing herbal steam is great for your mind, your body and your skin. It helps remove toxins, dirt and oil from your pores — plus it gives you some time to meditate and ponder what's happened in your day. This simple herbal facial steam recipe takes ten minutes to complete, it's safe, satisfying and will hopefully result in a clearer complexion. Here's what you'll need:

A quart of hot water

Half of a lemon

A handful of fresh cilantro

A handful of fresh basil leaves

Three drops of rosemary essential oil

For easy, step-by-step instructions on how to make your relaxing herbal steam at home,

A Philosophical Approach To Shine-Free Skin

bellasugar — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:00:20 -0700

Brand-new from Philosophy is a range of mattifying skincare products called Never Let Them See You Shine. Each of the three items aim to cut down sebum production and reduce the look of oily skin, while leaving your face feeling refreshed. The light blue formulas have a minty, sea-inspired scent and are best suited for those with oily and acne-prone sensitive skin.

After trying everything out, I really liked the way my face reacted to the scrub the best. It's thick, but it spreads easily and the beads are smooth as opposed to feeling grainy and rough — so they don't irritate your skin. Plus, the menthol is the strongest in the scrub; after you wash it off, your face feels soft, smooth and cool.

For an up-close look at each of the products,

The Clarisonic Diaries: A (Greasy) Update!

bellasugar — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 07:00:20 -0700

Now that I've been using my Clarisonic ($195) for a few weeks, I think it may be time for an intervention. As dorky as this sounds, I now look forward to washing my face; the brush just leaves my skin so soft and smooth that it's hard not to get hooked.

Unfortunately, I learned a lesson the hard way. At first, I used the Clarisonic night and day, happily buzzing away dead skin. All went well at first, but within a week, my face was much shinier than usual by mid-afternoon. (And we're not talking the soft, dewy glow of youth, either.) Fortunately, after reducing my Clarisonic use to before-bedtime cleansing, my face responded well, and Exxon-Mobil is no longer harassing me to secure oil rights to my face.

A few more benefits are starting to sprout, too: My pores appear smaller because they're not so clogged, and on good days, my foundation-free skin looks healthy and fresh-faced. Plus, I went to visit my mom, and it's not just me who's crazy about Clarisonic; after using it just once, Mama Bella is dropping some heavy hints as to what she'd like for her birthday. But the question remains: Is Clarisonic worth the nearly $200 it costs? The answer to that — or my opinion, anyway — will be revealed next week.

The Clarisonic Diaries: Week One

bellasugar — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:00:59 -0700

There are two beauty gadgets people usually ask me about: No!No! and Clarisonic. As far as No!No! is concerned, you can read my review here. But until last week, I'd never tried Clarisonic ($195). The oscillating brush uses sonic technology, promising to remove six times more makeup than regular cleansing, while reducing the appearance of fine lines at the same time.

My buddy Philleif recently bought a Clarisonic, and he won't stop raving about it. (He may or may not have mocked me for being behind the times.) But now that I've been sent one to review, I'll keep you posted on whether his (and Oprah's) Clarisonic evangelizing is deserved. For my first thoughts,

Dr. Murad vs L'Oreal: Who Gives Good Glycolic?

bellasugar — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:00:24 -0700

One of the best ways to brighten your skin is to incorporate a product with glycolic acid into your skin care regimen. You're probably tired of hearing about my Jan Marini cleanser, but its pH-balanced, 12% glycolic formula has done wonders for me. But even if you don't want to use a glycolic product every day, the occasional one-off treatment can exfoliate dead skin and produce a healthier glow.

After my dinner with Dr. Murad, I went home with a sample of his Intensive Resurfacing Peel ($165). The pricey product contains glycolic and salicylic acids to reveal smoother skin; the formula is contained in 16 separate ampoules to use over a four-week period. But I found that after leaving it on my face for about 10 minutes, I already saw smoother, softer, glowier skin; to make the product last, I get two uses out of each ampoule, which makes the hefty cost a little more justifiable.

Of course, a drugstore version promises to deliver amazing results, too. To find out whether it lives up to the marvy Murad product,

Bum Deal: How To Rid Yo' Ass of Acne

bellasugar — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 10:00:13 -0700

Y'know, lipstick and hair talk is all fine and dandy, but sometimes we've got to talk about less-fancy beauty concerns such as nail fungus and warts. And ass-ne — yes, pimples on your bum — is one of those. Nobody wants to admit it, but most of us have had a butt blemish in our lives.

Depending on which kind of ass-ne you have, you'll want to tackle it in a variety of ways. To see how to get back to that smooth-as-a-baby's-bottom stage,

Found! Help for Uneven Skin Tones

bellasugar — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:00:05 -0700

Many women struggle with uneven skin tone, but dark skin is particularly prone to hyperpigmentation — a fancier term for darker patches of skin. It's often caused by sun damage, but acne scars can also cause this problem. TeamSugar member valova82 and I have been messaging each other for a while, trying to figure out the best way to help her skin look more even-toned. And late last week, she sent this news, which we wanted to share with you:

I'm using some products by Ambi skincare. Initially, I purchased the Even and Clear moisturizer with SPF 30 ($11.49). I bought it because it slowly fades away dark spots. Bella, this is one of the best investments I've made in a LONG time. I've been using it for about two months and I've noticed a significant difference in the way that my skin looks. So, now I'm using both the moisturizer and the complexion bar soap and it's working miracles!

The only thing better than this ringing endorsement? Ambi is offering free samples, so you can try the goods without spending a dime. Thanks so much to valova82 for sharing her find!

New Product Alert: Bobbi Brown Oil Control Lotion SPF 15

bellasugar — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 14:00:57 -0700

Bobbi Brown has launched a new facial moisturizer for Summer, Oil Control Lotion SPF 15 ($45). This milky, oil-free, lightweight moisturizer contains seaweed to soothe the skin and lavender to control redness, inflammation, and irritation.

It's hydrating, calming, and it leaves your complexion soft, supple, and best of all — during the muggy summertime months — matte. It is recommended especially for those with oily skin to normal skin, but it's fine for combination skin, too.

I love that my face is left feeling velvety and smooth — it's as though I've just applied a primer under my makeup. The only slight drawback is the scent. With all of that lavender you'd think it would mask the smell of sunscreen, but no such luck. It's not a deal breaker, but nonetheless, I thought I'd mention it.

Reader Review: GiggleSugar on Clean & Clear Soft

bellasugar — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 09:00:55 -0700

In a parallel universe, GiggleSugar and I would switch places. I laugh at fart videos now and then, and she's really into beauty products. So when she offered to review Clean & Clear's Soft skin care ($6.99–$8.49), how could I say no? I'll let her take it from here:

Not everyone can afford to get a facial or go to a spa, so it's nice to see that Clean & Clear has come out with Soft, a version of their anti-acne line that democratizes luxury skin care. The Soft line, which includes: Steam, an
in-shower facial; Scrub, a gentle exfoliator; and two lotions, Day and Night, promises to make your skin, well, soft, with high-end ingredients like white tea and fruit acids.

Of the three products Bella let me try (Day, Steam, and Scrub), I particularly liked Day, the oil-free moisturizer with white tea and natural fruit acids, and Steam, which is a facial with fruit acids you can leave on for one minute while in the shower. I didn't dislike Scrub, but I like exfoliators that have lots of fine grains, and like many drugstore versions, Scrub's grains were average-sized and more dispersed than I prefer.

To find out what Giggle loved (and didn't love) about the line,

Product Review: Arcona Kiwi Clarifying Peel

bellasugar — Fri, 30 May 2008 10:00:01 -0700

A few weeks ago I talked to you about the Los Angeles based skin care brand Arcona. I've now had the opportunity to spend some time with the products and really get a feeling for how they affect my skin. One item that I've found noteworthy is the Kiwi Clarifying Peel ($85).

First of all, the smell is divine. It has a strong kiwi aroma and it even has the little black fruit seeds right there in the pot. The color is light green, but when you spread it on your face, it looks clear. The texture is thick and gooey and upon contact with your skin, you'll feel an instant tightening and cooling. The directions say to leave it on for ten minutes, but I ran to the bathroom after five. My face began to itch terribly from the fruit acids and I couldn't help but panic.

Thank goodness no damage was done. My face was pink for only ten minutes and I didn't suffer any burns or peeling, but my oh my, was that scary. Also, and I feel this is pretty important — I've had the peel for a few weeks now and have noticed that it's already beginning to smell rancid. Arcona suggests keeping their products for six months, and now I know why. The lack of preservatives must mean that they have a short shelf life.

I can understand why people love these products (they smell amazing and have a celebrity following), but I just don't think they are right for me. Does anyone else have any stories about disappointing skin care products they have tried?

See reader reviews of this product and add your own here!

Coming Soon: Wei East Golden Root Renewal Cream

bellasugar — Fri, 30 May 2008 09:00:21 -0700

Due out this July is the first SPF product from Wei East: Golden Root Renewal Cream SPF 15 ($37.50). Golden root is a vibrant red Chinese herb that has been used for ages to prevent visible signs of aging. Small quantities of golden root have been added to this cream to help promote the re-growth of dead skin cells, resulting in a new and smooth surface to your skin. This 'multitasking day cream' claims to firm, hydrate and make your skin look and feel more resilient.

The moisturizer also contains white tea (a strong antioxidant), reishi mushroom (an anti-inflammatory) and Licorice (to revitalize the skin). I've tried it once and am impressed with the way the SPF scent is masked with a cinnamony-herbal essence. Also, it has a thin, spreadable texture that goes on smooth and absorbs quickly.

I was thinking that it was definitely more of a moisturizer, but the impression I get from the packaging is that it's actually more like a sunscreen. Either way, I am really excited about being able to use such a great smelling product this summer that will protect my skin, improve its appearance and above all, it won't clog my pores.

All About Eye Creams

bellasugar — Wed, 28 May 2008 07:00:50 -0700

After reading this Beauty Product Junkies post and informally talking with a few friends, one thing is clear: Few people are clear on what eye creams do and whether you need them. So here are a few FAQs about eye cream. (If you have other questions, just leave a comment.)

Do I really need an eye cream?
Yes; to protect the delicate area around your eyes, you need to apply moisturizer every day.

Can't I just use my normal face cream?
Sure — it's up to you. The skin around your eyes isn't inherently different from the skin on, say, your cheeks. If you like your moisturizer, there's no reason not to use it near your eyes. Depending on your skin type, you may prefer (as I do) to use a separate eye cream. If you have oily skin, for instance, you may want a hydrating eye cream but a mattifying face lotion. But there's nothing holding you back from using the same moisturizer all over your skin.

To find out whether eye creams can eliminate your wrinkles,

Bella Brand: Omorovicza

bellasugar — Mon, 19 May 2008 14:00:46 -0700

A few months ago, I talked to you a little about the mineral- and vitamin-enriched waters of Hungary. They are believed to obtain natural and powerful healing properties that keep skin looking young, taught, and plump. In fact, in the 14th century, Queen Elizabeth of Hungary had such beautiful skin that at the age of 60, she married a 30-year-old man (and as the story goes, he thought they were the same age — although I'm guessing he was all about flattery rather than honesty, but whatever).

I also told you about a few Hungarian beauty brands, but one in particular, called Omorovicza, has become increasingly popular and is now available in London, Ireland, and the US. Although the products from Budapest don't come cheap, after testing them out, I found them to be nothing short of miraculous.

Omorovicza was developed a little less than two years ago by an American woman and her Hungarian husband, Stephen Omorovicza. There are 16 products in the skin-care collection that range from cleansers to treatment items. Each of the products contain 22 minerals, plus Vitamin C (with no added chemicals). They have a soothing rosemary and lavender scent and prices range from $75 — $260. The peacock, the symbol also on the Omorovicza family crest is apparent on the all-white, serene packaging, and when you purchase a product, a peacock feather adorns your bag. Call it a gimmick, but what can I say, I love it.

I've heard that the brand is gaining popularity in the A-list crowd, and celebrities such as Laura Linney and Daniel Craig (James Bond) are mad about the deep cleansing mud mask. I was most impressed by the self-heating thermal cleansing balm since it's smooth, invigorating, and black in color. But then again, I'm also a sucker for all things thermal. Do you think you could develop a hunger for Hungarian beauty products?

DIY Spa Treatment: A Soothing Clay Mask

bellasugar — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:00:22 -0700

If you're "blessed" with acne-prone but sensitive skin, this mask should be right up your alley. Clay is incredibly useful for fighting acne and overly oily skin because it soaks up excess oil without overdrying your skin. A dash of honey provides natural antibacterial properties, and adding a little bit of cucumber will create a calming, soothing effect. I recommend using this mask once a week after cleansing and exfoliating. Here's what you'll need:

1/2 cup green clay
One cucumber
One tsp. honey
A fruit/vegetable juicer (optional)

For the easy-to-follow steps,

Two Surprising Skin-Trouble Culprits

bellasugar — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:00:50 -0700

Earlier this week, I had a deep-pore facial at Gentle Star Medspa in San Francisco. My esthetician, Craig Shishido, had turned me on to Jan Marini Bioglycolic, which has made a huge improvement in my skin. He has a reputation for being a perfectionist, and boy, does he earn it. You know how most facials involve a few minutes of extraction? Craig de-plugged my pores for two and a half hours.

While he worked, he gave a few suggestions for better skin. They're a bit out of the ordinary, so I wanted to share two of them:

Wear sunscreen everywhere. Craig praised me for wearing sunscreen every day, but when he was removing blackheads on my ears — I told you, he's thorough — he asked if I wore sunscreen on my ears. Erk. I'd never thought of that! "Start wearing it on your ears now," he said. "Otherwise, the skin gets a little crusty over time, and it'll look like a Krispy Kreme doughnut."
Don't be phone-y. The right side of my face has had subtle irritation lately. "This is where you hold your phone, right?" Craig asked. Bingo. Turns out, the phone was causing contact dermatitis. The solution: Buy a Bluetooth headset, or clean your phone regularly.

Off to comparison shop for headsets now . . .
Source

Cor Blimey: Does this $125 Soap Work Wonders?

bellasugar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 08:00:45 -0700

When I read about Cor, a silver-infused bar of soap, I was intrigued. Not only does a $125 bar of soap seem like the ultimate screw-you to poor people, it's also the most expensive bar of soap I've ever heard of. But Cor promises amazing results, with the bar lasting about six to nine months. That's $20 or less a month, which isn't too steep.

Cor uses nano-silver to fight bacteria, collagen to hydrate, chitosan to absorb oil, and a few other ingredients to make it different from Dove. These ingredients are said to work together to even out skin tone, minimize wrinkles, replenish collagen, and deliver UV protection — all in a single bar of soap. I tried a sample size of Cor ($12) to see if it could live up to its promises. To find out whether it did,

Tips For a Flawless Wedding Day Face

bellasugar — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:00:49 -0700

The last thing that you want captured on film on your blissful wedding day are your under-eye circles, open pores and heaven forbid — pimples. It's never too early on your wedding beauty calendar to tackle the issues that keep your skin from looking and feeling its best. The typical bride aims for rosy cheeks, pink lips, lush lashes and radiant skin (although I encourage you to express yourself in your own way). To ensure that your face is as flawless as possible, here are a few tips to help prep your skin for your exciting walk down the aisle.

Acne: If you are prone to acne or cystic acne, you may want to see a dermatologist and try a round of antibiotics to keep breakouts at bay. You can also try a vitamin C or glycolic peel a few months before to see if they will help kill unwanted bacteria.
Sun spots: If you have apparent spots on your face from spending too much time in the sun, there are ways they can be lightened and removed (if necessary), but it can take up to six months. The first step is to exfoliate regularly. If that doesn't help, move onto microdermabrasion in combination with lightening creams.
Large pores: Large pores attract dirt which automatically draws more attention to them. Play around with using a pore minimizing primer or serum, to help shrink them after you have deep cleansed your skin.
Dark circles/bags: For eye bags, restrict your diet to low-salt foods and see if that helps. Apply de-puffing eye creams to help draw out moisture, and use a regular mask. Treatments for dark circles include creams and makeup to help hide them or Restylane injections and laser treatments to completely remove them. Again, this could take a few months so it's something to consider when you still have a good amount of time before the big day.

Source

What You Can Do About Rosacea

bellasugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:00:32 -0700

For the millions of people who suffer from the redness, facial flushing, and even acne-like symptoms of rosacea, it's easy to feel like there is little or nothing you can do to treat your condition. While not curable, there are many ways you can manage your rosacea so that it doesn't interfere with your life. It is important to note that while some severe forms of rosacea can look like acne, traditional acne treatments will only aggravate your condition. If you suspect you have either acne or rosacea, make a quick trip to your doctor so you can treat your condition properly.

To see some treatments and behaviors that can minimize the discomfort of the condition,

Product Review: Boscia Oil-Free Daily Hydration SPF 15

bellasugar — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 11:00:16 -0700

I recently bought Boscia Oil-Free Daily Hydration SPF 15 ($27), hoping for a great everyday moisturizer. Does it live up to my expectations? Yes and no.

The product comes in a tube with a pump dispenser, which I like because it allows the product to be delivered sanitarily. It is virtually scent free, and has the texture and appearance of a lightweight sunscreen. The weird thing about this moisturizer is that while my skin initially feels moisturized, literally 10 minutes later, my face feels sticky, tight, and even drier than before I put it on. I can't tell if this is because it doesn't absorb well enough into my skin, or if it just simply isn't moisturizing enough.

Another oddity about this moisturizer is that it pills up a bit when I apply primer over it. This can be remedied if I wait a full 15 minutes for it to soak in first, but I just don't have that kind of time in the morning. I am not going to be tossing the tube — mostly because I refuse to waste my $27 — and I keep hoping it will grow on me. It's not horrible, and maybe if my skin were oilier, I would appreciate the lightness of it even more.

See reader reviews of this product and add your own here!

How To Properly Pop a Pimple

bellasugar — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:18 -0700

We've all been warned at some point or another about the dangers of popping our own pimples (scarring! infection! irritation!), but the truth is, we do it anyway. If you're going to pop, you might as well know the right way to go about it.

First up, a word about which pimples are okay to squeeze, and which ones to keep your itchy little paws away from. A good rule of thumb is that you should only pop blemishes that have very distinct, white heads. This sort of blemish is common in cases of mild to moderate acne. Never try to pop something that does not have a white head, no matter how painful, red, or raised it is. Nothing will come out, and you will only make the pain and irritation worse.

Ready to get started? Then

An Introduction to Oil-Based Cleansers

bellasugar — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 08:00:39 -0700

I know what you're thinking: slather oil on my face? Are you nuts?

Not so fast. There's a good explanation for the existence of oil-based cleansers, I promise. Quick chemistry refresher: like attracts like, which means the oil in an oil-based cleanser bonds with and dissolves the oil and grime on your face. This means they can work for all skin types, even oily skin, since they remove oil without over-drying the way detergent-based cleansers can.

Oil-based cleansers are also useful for removing makeup, since most makeup contains oil. The best way to know which method of cleansing gets your face the most sparkling clean is to take one of these for a test drive. There is a slight risk of pore-clogging side effects, but that is usually from the non-oil ingredients, or from not rinsing them off fully. For a few shopping ideas,

Bellissima! Bobbi Brown Extra Soothing Balm

bellasugar — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:00:40 -0700

Attention all of you body-balm fans out there. This post is chock full of products that I know you'll love! I first became addicted to body salves about a year ago when I discovered this amazing wonderbalm. The smooth, hydrating, and soothing formulas are a great panacea for dry-skin issues since they can be used on your knees, elbows, lips, hands, and cuticles. It was love at first use and ever since I have been collecting more and more in search of the absolute bomb-diggity of balms.

For a while I swore by the pint-sized Smith's Rosebud Salve, but when I was introduced to Liz Earl's Superbalm in November, I became addicted for five months straight. I still think it has the best scent of them all, but my latest acquisition is the Bobbi Brown Extra Soothing Balm ($55).

Bobbi Brown has always been a brand I turn to when I'm looking for good quality basics. This rich, avocado, rosemary oil, beeswax, and geranium enhanced balm has been my saving grace during the cold weather of the past few months. I love the dense texture and because it contains shea butter, it is extra conditioning.

I hate wasting good product on my feet, but I will say that rubbing a little bit into the skin around my toes and heels has really helped keep my pedicure looking fresh. I know that sounds strange, but try it — it works! What's your favorite body balm?

How to Treat Acne Scars

bellasugar — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:00:47 -0700

To round out my acne series, I am going to give you some treatment options for healing your skin and reducing scarring once you've got your acne under control. Even mild acne can leave minor scarring, and for those of you who have battled moderate or severe acne, the scarring can be a lot worse.

It is common for acne lesions to leave a red or elevated mark behind once they're healed. This usually goes away within six to 12 months. Severe lesions can leave marks that persist after a year, and these are considered "permanent" scars. Luckily, there are things you can do to help minimize, and in some cases eliminate, this scarring. For treatment suggestions,

Product Review: Darphin Aromatic Purifying Balm

bellasugar — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:00:06 -0700

My skin had been looking extra bleak and blah these past few weeks. I'm not sure if its leftover dryness from the winter or what, but I've got all kinds of dry spots mixed in with oily areas and blemishes. I received a complimentary jar of Darphin Aromatic Purifying Balm ($75) a couple of months ago, and since the packaging says that it's suitable for all skin types and will help to rejuvenate, brighten and purify a dull complexion, I decided it was the right time to put it to the test.

I've used it three times now and while I haven't noticed that my pimples have vanished, the redness has dissipated a little bit and my face looks more even. My conclusion is that it contains a blend of essential oils that calm irritation, which is especially great for those with sensitive skin. I'll keep using it for a while longer in the hopes that a little bit more life and radiance will make its way back into my skin too.

Another plus of this product is the texture. It has a true balm consistency, which can be best described as a hardened oil. I've been using the scooper to take out a little bit and then I rub it in between my hands until it's completely broken down. Then, I apply it to my face and neck using large circular, sweeping motions. The smell is incredible and it reminds me a lot of Liz Earle Superbalm since they both have that strong aromatic, healing, spa essence to them. If you are interested in a calming treatment, I recommend this one — however I do think it's kind of expensive for just slightly above average results.

Get Glowing with a Glycolic Acid Wash

bellasugar — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 07:00:26 -0700

I'm a little obsessive when it comes to having healthy skin, and although Differin has cleared up most of my acne, I still didn't have that glow that I've been seeking. So on Saturday, I went to a med-spa to discuss my options. After looking at my skin, the esthetician suggested Jan Marini Bioglycolic cleanser (about $30). Now, normally I'd never spend this much for a cleanser, but because I don't currently have a glycolic acid product in my daily regimen, I decided to give it a whirl.

After just a few days, I'm hooked. This is already making a difference. I'm starting to have that shiny-but-not-oily glow that I covet, and my skin feels soft and smooth. And even though it doesn't irritate my skin, know that this is serious stuff: the cleanser contains 12% glycolic acid, which is a pretty hefty concentration. To use the cleanser, you put a small amount on dry skin — it can't be wet — and massage it into skin for about a minute before rinsing.

I was worried that a glycolic product would be too harsh for my skin, especially considering my Differin use, but it's been great so far. If you're dealing with dull skin and regular exfoliants aren't doing much for you, I would definitely try this cleanser. Or for a more affordable version, try Aqua Glycolic Facial Cleanser ($14.49). Although I haven't used it, the ingredient list is nearly identical, with only a slightly less potent percentage of glycolic acid. Give either of these a try; I'm almost positive you'll have great results!

How To Treat Moderate Acne Vulgaris

bellasugar — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 07:00:48 -0700

This week I'll be continuing my series on the types of acne and treatment options for each. If you haven't already taken my acne quiz, get to it so you can figure out which type you have. We already went over the treatment options for mild acne vulgaris, so now it's time to move on to moderate acne vulgaris.

Quick refresher before we get started: moderate acne vulgaris consists of papules and pustules. Papules are slightly elevated, solid lesions that have a "sandpaper" feel when you rub your hand over the area. A pustule is the more inflamed version of a papule. They are dome-shaped, fragile lesions containing pus that typically consists of a mixture of white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Lovely! Now that we know what we're dealing with, see what you can do about it when you

How To Treat Mild Acne Vulgaris

bellasugar — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 08:00:46 -0700

I kicked off my series on acne by helping you identify your acne type with this quiz. Now that you know what ails you, it's time to talk about what you can do to help clear up your skin.

Keep in mind, no matter how severe you think your acne is, the best way to start treating it is with the mildest products, working your way gradually towards stronger ones until you find what your skin responds to the best. No need to jump right into retinoids when a gentle cleanser will do!

First up are product and treatment options for those of you with mild acne vulgaris. As a reminder, this is the most mild form of acne, consisting of mostly non-inflamed lesions such as blackheads and small whiteheads. These can pop up anywhere, but they are typically found on your nose, forehead, and chin. If this describes your acne,

Seven Days of Face-Mask Madness

bellasugar — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 08:00:06 -0700

One of my favorite product categories is that of the face mask. There's something so relaxing about rubbing that thick paste on your skin, popping in a DVD, and letting the mask work its magic. I've tried at least a dozen so far this year, so I thought I'd share some thoughts. You might be surprised; some of the best are the least expensive!

Recession-Proof Beauty: Free Mario Badescu Samples

bellasugar — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 07:00:25 -0700

There may be no free lunch (unless you're enjoying Taco Thursdays, of course). But there is free skin care. Mario Badescu, the spa where celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston and Natalie Portman have their pores purged, offers complimentary skin consultations through its web site. You just have to fill out an online questionnaire, and in a few weeks, you'll get free samples of products customized to your skin situation.

The deal sounds too good to be true, but it's actually great. I went undercover, using my own name and not mentioning BellaSugar. Within days of filling out the online questionnaire, a Mario Badescu representative e-mailed me to ask some follow-up questions about the state of my skin. I answered them and sent a picture, too. In about two weeks, I received a packet of samples along with a guide to using them. No freaky sales pressure, just detailed guidance and generously sized samples. So if you're looking for a new skin-care regimen and want to try before you buy, you know what to do.

Tanning-Bed Industry: "Tanning Rules, Dermatologists Drool!"

bellasugar — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 11:02:13 -0700

I don't know whether to laugh or cry over this one. You know how pretty much every dermatologist ever sings the praises of sunblock due to its ability to prevent wrinkles and skin cancer? According to the Indoor Tanning Association, it's all a lie. The group, which lobbies on the behalf of tanning salons nationwide, has released an ad campaign touting the benefits of bathing in ultraviolet light. In a full-page ad in today's New York Times, the group claims that there's "no compelling scientific evidence that tanning causes melanoma."

What's more, the ITA decries "front groups" that advocate use of sunblock. You know, shady groups such as the Skin Cancer Foundation (who, by the way, points to a study that finds a strong link between tanning bed use and melanoma risk). Dermatologists, the ITA claims, are in the pocket of the lucrative sunscreen industry.

It's a clever-enough propaganda campaign. Too bad it's a bunch of horse poop. But don't take my word for it. To see what a skin-cancer survivor had to say about it

Recession-Proof Beauty: The Aspirin Mask

bellasugar — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:13:03 -0700

Whether you're feeling the effects of the lousy economy or not, it never hurts to save money. This week, I'll be bringing you a series called Recession-Proof Beauty. Expect money-saving tips on looking your best, including do-it-yourself treatments, cheap-chic products, and general advice for looking like a million bucks... even if you're counting every penny.

To start things off, I thought I'd tell you about the aspirin mask, a skin-softening, acne-fighting treatment that costs only a few cents. It's simple, cheap, and effective. Use it as an exfoliating paste, or leave it on your skin for about five minutes as a mask. Either way, you should see brighter, softer skin with less dullness. (That's because the effective ingredient in aspirin is chemically similar to salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate skin.)

For the super-simple aspirin mask "recipe,"

Three Easy Ways to Sneak an SPF Into Your Beauty Routine

bellasugar — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 12:00:18 -0700

Most people who have an aversion to sunscreen just haven't figured out the right way to incorporate it into their beauty routine. Luckily, getting that SPF protection no longer means gooping on a layer of pore-clogging, impossible-to-wear-makeup-over sunscreen every morning. To help out, I've come up with three easy ways to sneak some sun protection into your day.

Primer: A primer goes on top of your moisturizer to even out skin texture, absorb oil, and hold foundation in place all day long. Smashbox has already released a SPF 15 version of its cult favorite Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer ($42). Or try the Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 ($16.50), a broad-spectrum sunscreen that can be worn as a light moisturizer or a primer.

To see two more super-simple ways to add an SPF to your routine,

Product Review: Crystalift

bellasugar — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 07:00:57 -0700

Ah, I remember the first microdermabrasion treatment I ever had. Truthfully, I was scared that the blast of crystals would hurt, so I braced myself. Fortunately, though, I didn't feel any pain, and the result — glowy, dewy-looking skin — made me understand the hype. Unfortunately, though, I don't have an extra $100 in my monthly budget for microdermabrasion.

Enter Crystalift. It's a compact version of professional microdermabrasion machines, and it's meant for at-home treatments. It's very simple to use: You just plug it in, drop in a packet of microfine crystals, and turn it on. When you move the wand across your face, Crystalift blasts the crystals on your skin, leaving a slight residue so you can track which parts of your face you've already covered. The treatment takes less than 10 minutes.

To find out how well Crystalift works,

Heidi Klum Launches Her Skin-Care Collection

bellasugar — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:00:55 -0700

Is it just me, or is Heidi Klum everywhere lately? She's the face of Victoria's Secret, she's involved in heart-health campaigns, she's gearing up for another round of Project Runway, and throughout all of this she's taking her little ones out for playtime. Her latest endeavor is In an Instant, a skin-care line that she's hawking in infomercials.

In an Instant is an antiaging line that promises immediate results. "It's like airbrushing your wrinkles away," Heidi declares gleefully in a clip on the website. The six-product line ($29.95) includes a foaming cleanser, a firming serum, a wrinkle smoother, a tinted moisturizer, an eye treatment, and a warming scrub. I think the products are fairly priced, but I'd like to know more about the ingredients before snapping it up. (The serum contains peptides, which is promising, and the tinted moisturizer has SPF 15, but the ingredient list isn't available on the website.)

Take a look at the before-and-after pictures to see what to expect. Truthfully, I see some improvement, but nothing dramatic; I also think that while some products will give you instant results, most skin-care items take at least a month to do so. When the first batch of In an Instant ships in a few weeks, I guess we'll start to hear a bit of buzz — but I have a feeling it will take a lot more than foaming cleanser to make me look like Heidi.

New Product Alert: St. Ives Elements Protective Cleanser

bellasugar — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 10:00:15 -0700

When Freeze 24/7 released Ice Shield a couple of years ago, I was intrigued. The cleanser not only removes dirt and oil, it also protects skin with SPF 15. Innovative, no? My only complaint was the $48 price tag, which seemed a little high, even for a two-in-one product.

Ah, but now St. Ives has stepped in with its Elements Protective Cleanser ($7.99). The concept of this cleanser is the same: You simply wash your face as you would normally, which simultaneously "washes on" SPF 10 coverage. It's that simple, which should please those of you who prefer having as few steps as possible in your morning routine.

Although I like the lower-priced option, I'm not crazy about the relatively low SPF rating. SPF 10 is small potatoes; at the very least, you should wear SPF 15 every day, and SPF 30 is ideal. If you're serious about protecting your skin, you'll want a higher SPF. But if you're the type of person who doesn't wear sunblock every day already, this is a good way to get at least a little protection without adding another product to your skin-care regimen.

Should You Go On Accutane?

bellasugar — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:57:10 -0700

If you've tried everything from benzoyl peroxide to retinoids and your acne won't budge, you might have what is called severe recalcitrant nodular acne. This means it might be time to consider a prescription like Accutane. While not for everyone, Accutane could be the solution to your acne woes.

Accutane is a highly concentrated form of vitamin A. It reduces the amount of oil and sebum produced by the glands in your skin. It also helps the surface of your skin renew itself continuously, preventing the buildup of pore-clogging dead skin and sebum. Treatment usually lasts four to six months, or until acne is completely cleared. Most patients will need an additional round of four to six months within the first year or so, and acne will typically get worse before it gets better. And naturally, you'll need to talk with a dermatologist to decide if going on Accutane would be a good decision. For some pros and cons,

Just in Time for Breakfast: All About Sebaceous Cysts

bellasugar — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 08:00:54 -0700

Most people don't get too disgusted by run-of-the-mill skin problems such as blackheads or cystic acne. But bring up sebaceous cysts, and things get messy. While these skin annoyances are generally harmless, they're also not so attractive — and they love to linger for months.

Sebaceous cysts usually pop up near the ears, neck, back and face, but don't mistake it for a pimple. Even though it's filled with sebum, it won't come to a head the way most blemishes do. That's because it isn't a clogged pore; instead, imagine a waxy goo-filled sac under your skin. They're two totally different things.

Although sebaceous cysts aren't a health hazard, they're unsightly — and in some cases, they can become very tender and painful. To find out how to treat them,

Product Review: Wei East China Herbal Intensive Eye Treatment

bellasugar — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 13:00:00 -0800

Do you ever have a day where you've woken in the middle of a dream cycle and you just never manage to feel fully awake all day long? That happened to me over the weekend, and unfortunately I had a big night out ahead of me. Coffee boosted my energy level, but I really needed a quick fix for my puffy eyes.

Luckily, I remembered that Tibetan chrysanthemum helps correct puffiness, so I reached for my new box of Wei East China Herbal Intensive Eye Treatment Pads ($36) that I hadn't had the opportunity to test out yet.

To read my review and find out if they did the trick,

Three Things To Do Today To Save Your Skin Tomorrow

bellasugar — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 09:00:46 -0800

These days the market is flooded with anti-aging products from serums to sprays to pills, so it can be a daunting task to figure out which treatments are necessary to ward off the early signs of aging. But there are three basic, simple things you can start doing today to keep your skin healthy.

Moisturize Since a lot of women struggle with occasional bouts of acne, we often overdry our skin when preventing and treating breakouts. But you can hydrate your skin without clogging your pores. Keep your skin as hydrated as possible by using an oil-free moisturizer with an SPF in the morning, and then a moisturizing gel or hyaluronic acid serum in the evening to lock in as much moisture as possible while you sleep.

To see two more ways to start preventing the early signs of aging,

Fantastic Firming Creams, Part II: Face

bellasugar — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 16:00:52 -0800

Yesterday I told you a little bit about some firming bust creams, and today we're moving up on the body by focusing on creams to firm your face. Firming facial creams can help to minimize the appearance of your pores, and some can topically and temporarily suspend muscle contractions in your face — similar to what Botox does, but without the side effects.

Tracie Martyn Firming Serum ($185) is a favorite among celebrities, so I was really excited when I received a sample to test. I used it only a few times, but I found it to be calming, moisturizing, and brightening.

Clarins Extra Firming Day Cream ($77) is more for women in their 40s and up. The medium-weight cream has a very clean smell, and it claims to firm, tone and reduce those stubborn fine lines on your face. I found it to be soothing and it left my skin looking plump and smooth, but I didn't feel any particular sensation when I applied it, so it's hard for me to judge if it really worked.

For one more drugstore brand,

The Great Borba Experiment: The Results Are In!

bellasugar — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 11:00:12 -0800

Back in early December, I embarked on an experiment to see if Borba Aqua-less Crystaline would clear up my spots as it promises. The pomegranate-infused $100/month regimen promises to combat oily skin, clogged pores, and impurities. Sounds great, but the skeptic in me wanted to try it out. Every morning, I'd wake up and mix the powder into water, then drink it down. It doesn't taste bad at all; it's kind of like a less bitter SweeTart.

So does it work? Sadly, no, it does not. (I promised before-and-after photos, but honestly, considering the number of pimples on my chin after a month, I just couldn't subject you to my pizzaface. Trust me, it's better for us both.) Borba didn't make my skin worse, but it certainly didn't improve it; I didn't see the promised results. And the sucralose (brand name: Splenda) in the formula gave me headaches. No fun. While Borba does deliver nutrients that can help skin, you could get those nutrients elsewhere — or you could afford to eat a whole pomegranate each day. Unless your bank account rivals the GDP of Monaco, I'd take a pass.

Product Review: H2O+ Face Oasis

bellasugar — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 11:00:14 -0800

H2O+ is a line of oil-free skincare products that uses ingredients derived from the sea to hydrate your skin. I recently tried Face Oasis ($34), which claims to deliver the moisture equivalent to eight glasses of water to your skin.

The formula has a gel-like texture, with a faint but pleasant salty-sweet smell. It goes on medium in weight — not as light as a serum, but smoother than a moisturizer. It takes a few minutes to settle into the skin, and can get a little sticky while drying. But when it does dry completely, your face feels velvety soft.

This hydrator can be used either as a daily moisturizer, or you can apply a heavy layer and use it as a mask. Since it takes a while to absorb fully into the skin, it's not going to be a part of my morning routine, but it's great as a nighttime hydrator.