Prefall Beauty Tips

Prefall vibes? I do not know about you, but I've been jonesing for some Fall for quite a while! And today "The Beauty Spotlight Team" is sharing with your some "Prefall Beauty Tips."

Prefall Skincare Tips

The Boxwalla October Beauty Box, When Time Stood Still, features 3 amazing products from Lepaar Skincare. Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog highly recommends this beautifully curated collection because the products are extraordinary, and so is the value! A+ 

Prefall Fashion Tips

Angie at Your True Self Blog has enjoyed the summer to the end and hopes that you have too! Now that we are past the autumn equinox, she is ready to share tips and advice on how to transition your outfits in the fall. Age doesn’t matter. 

Prefall Makeup Tips

Looking for a liquid eyeliner that’s a cinch to apply and even has a built-in correcting pen? Allison from Never Say Die Beauty has found one that’s easy to use and oh-so-affordable from Sorme Treatment Cosmetics plus a fabulous eyeshadow palette that’s perfect for fall. 

Prefall Tips For Your Home

With fall weather starting to blow in it’s time to cozy up your home. Prime Beauty has fallen for Shanti Creations Zero Waste Candles and thinks fall will get only better when burning one of these.

Prefall Health And Wellness Tips

Many people work hard with diet and exercise to achieve their aesthetic goals. But between aging, genetics, pregnancy, and other factors, some parts of the body still may have more fat than we like. That’s where liposuction can make a dramatic difference when it comes to fat loss.

However, with all of the different types of liposuction and tons of liposuction reviews, understanding the benefits of liposuction can be overwhelming. Let’s see what Barbie’s Beauty Bits has to say on the types of liposuction available today.

Put the wellness odds in your favor. We can create habits to support our immune system, take precautions to stay well, and harness the power of nutrition as a tool for wellness.What we eat matters, and studies show that poor nutrition wreaks havoc on our immune response. The more fruits and vegetables we eat, the better our immune system performs learn more about how to eat to look good and feel great. Visit The Culinary Cure to learn.

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SPAtember, Beauty Tips To Spa At Home

September is National Skincare Awareness month, and what better time to pamper your skin than with some beauty tips from The Beauty Spotlight Team. Check out these great SPAtember beauty tips.

Spa At Home Skincare

Looking for an essence that’s more than an essence? Allison from Never Say Die Beauty has discovered Korean skincare brand, Abib’s Okjuk Essence, loaded with Solomon’s Seal extract, is a nutritious anti-aging hydrator. Plus, it’s on sale at Amazon!

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum is a wonderful antioxidant-rich serum that offers skin incredible hydration and protection from free-radical damage. It boasts a blend of novel peptides that help boost collagen production, and the result is the appearance of firmer skin and plumped fine lines. Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog also loves that it helps to brighten the skin, fade hyperpigmentation, and it leaves skin soft, supple, smooth and incredibly luminous.

Splurge or steal? That was Prime Beauty‘s decision to make when looking for a particular skincare item. Her find is a steal we should all take advantage of.

Are you ready to rock that next ZOOM Meeting? Or do you hate how you look on video? Mask wearings and the Zoom meetings forced many to look at themselves with unfavorable lighting and awkward angles, noticing some features that make you look older than you are. 

It is all about the eyes and you can’t hide from it! Some much-needed anti-aging eye treatments are what you need so your eyes are ready to be the center of attention! Found out how they can with this post from Barbie’s Beauty Bits.

Spa At Home Makeup

Is the Disney x ColourPop Bambi Palette worth picking up? Over on Southeast by Midwest Cassie has a review with swatches to help you decide.  

Treat Yourself To Some Fashion And Food

Angie at Your True Self Blog has compiled a list of what you can wear that has unlimited potential.She has rounded up her favorite basics that go with most anything and everything in her closet. If you have these basic pieces, she thinks it would be really easy for you to find something to wear every day! Age doesn’t matter.

Food Stuck. It’s a real thing, especially after months of stress eating, feeling limited, and using food for entertainment and comfort. Fall is here, and we are ready to get unstuck from the food habits that have added pounds to our scale and inches to our waist. 

It’s time to stop making excuses and learn how to master food habits that align with how we want to look and feel to build a body you love that loves you back. Learn about this on The Culinary Cure.

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The 411 On Face Serums With ItCosmetics Bye, Bye Serums

What is the 411 on face serums, and what does ItCosmetics have to do with it? For starters, face serums are the recipe for the perfect skincare routine! So what makes a serum the must-add ingredient to the perfect skincare routine? What are the benefits? Why do I need to add ItCosmetics Bye, Bye Serums to my skincare routine?

Well beauties, Barbie's Beauty Bits is here to answer all of those questions and more with my 411 On Face Serums And ItCosmetics Bye, Bye Concentrated Derma Serums, developed by plastic surgeons.

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What Is A Face Serum

For skincare to be effective, it needs to have active ingredients. That is where face serums come into play as they are more advanced, targeted, and formulated with significant amounts of active ingredients to focus on a specific skincare need.  

Serums are packed full of beneficial skin-replenishing and skin-restoring, anti-oxidant formulations. And because they are generally lighter than your traditional face creams, they can penetrate your skin deeper, where they need to be to make a difference. 

What Is The Best Face Serum To Add To My Skincare Routine

We know this is a common question and can be a bit frustrating. Various serums on the market perform different skincare duties, ranging from hydrating and anti-aging to skin brightening, making it feel like you need a special degree to decipher what serum you need to add to your skincare routine.

The biggest takeaway is to understand that serums are designed to deliver high concentrations of specific active ingredients to the skin to address a particular skincare issue. Hence depending on your specific skincare concerns, you may need more elevated amounts of these beneficial skincare ingredients to help you say bye, bye to problems like dullness, lines, pores, and dark spots.

Bye, Bye Skincare Issue With These Serums From ItCosmetics
Rarely does anyone have just one skin concern. Usually, we’re trying to address a few while ensuring our skin stays wholly balanced at the same time and avoiding the ouch burn from mixing the wrong skincare products. The trick is to find the right serums (preferably one suitable for all skin types, even sensitive) that work best together to do precisely that, and  ItCosmetics is doing just that with their Bye, Bye Serums. With the help of dermatologists’ expertise, each of the serums contain high percentages of active ingredients proven to drive visible results!

This serum skincare line comes with four different concentrated derma serums, so there is a serum for you depending on what you want to skincare concern you want to say, bye, bye too! 

ItCosmetics Bye, Bye Lines Serum
Mark Twain said that wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been. Thanks, Mark, but I prefer to age like fine wine. And this bye, bye serum for fines lines and wrinkles is here to help.

Aside from facial expressions and the years of birthdays, other causes can lead to wrinkles like free radical damage, dehydration of the skin, and a loss of volume. Itcosmetic's bye, bye line serum is concentrated with 1.5% hyaluronic acid, which helps plump and smooth the feel of skin while giving the skin a hydration boost. Plus, the serum contains peptides and is vitamin B5 infused to improve skin bounce back and softness.

Say Bye, Bye To Dullness In Your Skin With This Holly Grail Ingredient

So what is dullness in the skin? This can sometimes be hard to describe, but I explain it like this. You ever woke up and looked at yourself in the mirror, and you look like you aged ten years overnight?

Dull skin tone is the cause resulting in your skin losing its natural luminosity because of dryness, lack of hydration, built-up dead skin cells, damaged cells, loss of collagen and elastin, and the slowing down of cellular turnover. Giving the skin a dull, lackluster, older appearance, the radiance of younger-looking skin seems to.... poof, be gone. So what is this holy grail ingredient, vitamin C serum, my beauties!

Itcosmetics Bye, Bye Dullness Vitamin C Serum
This is my favorite serum in Itcosmetics Bye, Bye Serum skincare line as it has high concentrations of Vitamin C. When it comes to perking up tired, dull skin, it's time to call in a better reinforcement from one of my favorite active ingredients, Vitamin C.

Vitamin C ranks among the best active ingredients in serum and is so loved by dermatologists. It is an excellent source of antioxidants that protects the skin from free radicals. It dramatically improves radiance and helps prevent collagen loss in the skin; in other words, a sleeping beauty waking up to looking young and glowing again.

A serum like the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Dullness uses a potent concentration of vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact) cocktailed with vitamin E, so the skin gets the Tadju Mahall experience with nourishing properties that actually make your skin look healthier.

In only a week's use, I've seen a dramatic change in my skin tone due to the higher concentration of Vitamin C. Most over-the-counter skincare products are much lower, which is why it can take months to see visible effects with the human eye.

ItCosmetics Bye, Bye Pores Serum
Unfortunately, you can’t physically shrink your pores, but you can assist in how they look. What?? Yes, that is one thing I learned from an esthetician friend of mine, Pila from Heaven On Earth Day spa.

Her suggestion is the first step in managing your pores is always to keep your skin nice and clean! That means no falling asleep with makeup on or skipping that cleansing routine, and make sure to double cleanse. Why? Because having a clean face helps to prevent blackheads and clogged pores, which only enlarges your pores.

A serum like the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores uses a high concentration of glycolic acid, 10% to be exact, which helps to gently exfoliate skin and break down that “glue” that holds dead skin cells together that clogs the pores. Combine that with hydrating hyaluronic acid, and you are ready to say “BYE BYE” to the look of pores with this serum.

ItCosmetics Bye, Bye Dark Spots Serum
With summer coming to an end, many of us are left with sun damage, including dark spots, aka photoaging.

Did you know that photoaging accounts for 90% of skin aging? Yes, you read that right. And the worst part is our actions have caused this! In layman's terms, it is the damage caused by repeated exposure to ultraviolet radiation from artificial UV sources, UVA, and UVB rays. Some of the signs of photoaging appear as wrinkles, age spots, loss of elastin, and collagen.

Ever hear the expression, "Nothing looks better in your 50's than sunscreen in your 20's." That's because most of the damage we see in mature skin is cumulative of bad habits we developed in our 20’s and 30's, which will significantly impact how old your skin will look (chronological age) when you are older.

If there is a magic potion that can reverse photodamage and protect the skin from further damage, it is an anti-oxidants. Not only are they super anti-inflammatory, but they're also excellent at neutralizing, repairing, and preventing Free Radical damage.

The easiest way to get your dose of antioxidants is to look for skincare products enriched with them, like ItCosmetics Bye, Bye Dark Spot Serum. This dark spot serum uses ethyl vitamin C, a stable version of this traditionally unstable ingredient, to target discoloration directly. Combine that with 4% niacinamide, and this hyper-pigmentation serum can visibly reduce dark spots and discoloration while helping improve your skin’s clarity. Get ready to say “BYE BYE” to dark spots. More even-toned skin is here!

Can I Pair The Serums
As you've seen above each serum is uniquely created to address specific skin concerns when used alone, but when these multi-functional serums are paired with one another, they become a powerhouse, helping you to achieve the healthiest of skin.

I will say if you have sensitive skin, you may want to do some patch testing, as it can be irritating to the skin.

Terrific Texture
Enjoy the benefits of vitamin C and glycolic acid. Your skin will look terrific in a week; mine did! Because glycolic acid supercharges vitamin C's benefits by sloughing away dulling skin cells. This will prep the skin for the holy grail ingredient, Vitamin C. Not only will it accelerate cell renewal, but it will leave your skin looking smooth and radiant.

Looking for some other pairings? Check out the image below. 

SHOP SOME OF MY AFFILIATE LINKS BELOW

SHOP:

SHOP SERUMS AT ULTA BY CLICKING HERE

SHOP SERUMS ON AMAZON BY CLICKING HERE

SHOP ITCOSMETICS BY CLICKING HERE

DISCOUNT CODES:

GET 20% OFF AT ITCOSMETICS WITH CODE: SAVE20 

FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OF $35 AT ULTA 

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4 Different Types Of Liposuction Available Today

Learn More About The Different Types Of Liposuction Procedures With This Liposuction Guide

Many people work hard with diet and exercise to achieve their aesthetic goals. But between aging, genetics, pregnancy, and other factors, some parts of the body still may have more fat than we like. That’s where liposuction can make a dramatic difference when it comes to fat loss.

However, with all of the different types of liposuction and tons of liposuction reviews, understanding the benefits of liposuction can be overwhelming. So, I got with Dr. Aric Aghayan from Portland, Oregon, to see if he could discuss the four different types of liposuction available today. Let's see what he had to say!

Which Type Of Liposuction Is Best For You?
With this popular procedure, your plastic surgeon can sculpt your abdomen, love handles, hips, rear, or thighs to give you the body contours you’ve dreamed of. There are many different types of liposuction for fat loss available today, ranging from Traditional Liposuction to Tumescent to Ultra-sound liposuction and Laser Assisted, we have you covered with this liposuction guide!

#1 Standard Liposuction
This is the oldest type of liposuction. First, the surgeon makes small incisions in the area that needs treatment. Then, a cannula is inserted to remove the fat cells.

This type of liposuction can be used on the abdomen, thighs, legs, back, arms and rear. However, it’s not the best choice for small areas, such as under the chin, because it isn’t precise enough.

The primary reason this type of procedure is used today is it’s the least expensive option. It also has been used for years and has been proven to be safe and effective.

However, traditional liposuction causes more swelling and bruising. Also, it’s the least precise type of lipo, so there is a higher number of people with dimpling and lumpiness. You may even need several treatments to get the desired result. 

#2 Tumescent Liposuction
This has been the "gold standard" for liposuction for the last 20 years or so. Your surgeon makes small incisions in the target area, then injects lidocaine and epinephrine to swell the fat and make it easier to remove. The lidocaine and epinephrine also reduce bleeding and swelling, which makes a recovery easier.

Next, your plastic surgeon inserts a small cannula through the incisions and removes the desired fat cells. About four or five pounds of fat and liquid can be removed in one session.

Tumescent liposuction works well on most body parts, and the swelling and bruising usually fade in about a month. But it can take at least three months before you see the final results.

The most significant advantage of tumescent liposuction is it minimizes bruising, swelling, and bleeding. It also is one of the less expensive liposuction procedures.

#3 Ultrasound Liposuction
Ultrasound technology has been used for 40 years, but cosmetics surgeons now use it for liposuction with good results.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses sound waves to dissolve fat cells, making them easier to remove with a cannula.

This form of lipo is often used in body areas with denser fat, such as the male’s chest, on the back, and the hips. Recovery is the same as tumescent liposuction, but some patients may have minor burns or blisters.

Ultrasound liposuction is a good choice for those who want to remove a large amount of fat or need to remove tougher fat from the chin, male breasts, or back. 

#4 Laser-Assisted Liposuction
This type of lipo is similar to ultrasound, but it uses a laser to liquefy fat. Your surgeon will insert a laser probe with the cannula, which breaks down the fat into oil. Any fat that isn’t removed is eventually absorbed by the body, making this a highly efficient procedure.

This type of liposuction uses a tiny cannula, so it’s the most precise option. It also requires small incisions that don’t leave scars.

Laser-assisted liposuction is an excellent choice to fine-tune areas of the body, such as the abdominal muscles. It even can be used to remove small amounts of fat from the face. Some surgeons use this procedure to tighten the skin, as well.

This type of lipo does involve a longer recovery, and patients occasionally get burns from the laser. 

Is Liposuction For Me?
Men and women undergo liposuction every day to achieve their aesthetic goals. For example, some may want to look better with their shirts off, while others want to look more attractive in a bathing suit. And some desire that their stylish clothes fit more comfortably.

If any of the following apply to your situation, talk to your plastic surgeon about liposuction today:

• You have extra fat in certain areas that don’t respond to diet and exercise, such as the abdomen, sides, chin, neck, rear, or thighs.
• You believe that some parts of your body are out of proportion with the rest.
• Your skin elasticity is good, and you don’t have issues with loose or sagging skin.
• You’re close to your ideal body weight.
  

However, if you have loose skin in some treatment areas, liposuction will only accentuate the problem. Therefore, you may need a tummy tuck as well as liposuction for ideal results.

Also, remember that liposuction isn’t for losing weight. This procedure can enhance your contours and make you look slimmer, but it is not meant for weight loss. You should be near your ideal weight before considering this procedure. 

More About Apres Plastic Surgery
Dr. Aric Aghayan is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is pleased to serve his patients in the Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area at his practice, Apres Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Agahyan earned his medical education at the University of Missouri, followed by an eight-year plastic surgery and general surgery residency at Oregon Health & Science University. His years of training and experience help Dr. Agahyan blend art and science for the best results in his patients.

To learn more about Dr. Aghayan, please visit Dr. Aric Of Apres Plastic Surgery today.

References
The Downside Of Liposuction

Types Of Liposuction

Liposuction Overview

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How To Prevent And Treat Under Eye Wrinkles At Home

Preventing and treating under-eye wrinkles at home have been on the rise. As the last year and a half, it has have been all about the eyes. That's right; our eyes are taking center stage, but are your eyes ready to be the center of attention?

Mask wearings and the Zoom meetings forced many to look at themselves with unfavorable lighting and awkward angles, noticing some features that make you look older than you are.

Think about it. It is one thing sitting in a boardroom meeting, but it is another sitting in a meeting starring at yourself on a computer screen for hours on end. Before the pandemic, a glimpse of ourselves in a mirror in the bathroom was all we saw. But now, with the close-up from video conferencing, people are like:

• Oh my, I never noticed all the eye wrinkles every time I smile or talk.
• Why do I look so tired?
• Where did those under-eye bags come from?
• Why is my makeup creasing under my eyes?

It's no wonder so many of us are getting a complex about our features, AKA, the Zoom Boom, with an increase in cosmetic procedures with Eyelift surgery, in particular, reporting a 167% increase in inquiries.

The pandemic has had a ripple effect on another industry: The beauty industry, particularly at-home skincare. Specifically to combat dark circles, puffiness, under-eye folds, and crows feet. Their cause is linked to many factors, from tiredness to thinning skin due to a loss of collagen. And if you ask me a perk me up is in order, wouldn't you say? And ALIVER Skin is here to help with just that!

Before discussing ways to banish those eye issues needle and knife-free, using skincare from ALIVER, I think it is essential to understand the causes and preventions to address aging eye skin adequately. 

The Common Places We See Wrinkles Is Around The Eyes
You look in the mirror, and what are those crinkly areas around the eyes that you see? Crow's feet! While we may say the eyes are the windows to our souls, they present a clear picture of something else; premature aging, as unfortunately, this thin, delicate skin around the eyes is one of the first to show signs of aging.

Most Common Reasons We Get Wrinkles Around The Eyes

No 1: Facial Expressions Main Cause For Eye Wrinkles
These pesky wrinkles appear from facial expressions like smiling, furrowing your brow, or squinting but fade when the expression stops. However, if these habits become continual, the creases become more profound and permanent because the skin loses its ability to snap back into place.

No. 2: Exposure To Free Radicals Create Premature Aging
Two of the most visible effects of free radicals are wrinkles and the breakdown of collagen. While avoiding total exposure to free radicals is almost impossible. It is possible to delay the process by limiting our exposure to unnecessary free radicals and several external culprits like pollution, overexposure to the sun, even ingredients in makeup that can cause early signs of aging.

No 4: Everyday Habits Can Lead To Eye Wrinkles
Several other factors, including our daily choices, can also influence the aging process of our skin:

• Sleeping on your stomach with your face buried in a cotton pillow
• Staring at a computer all-day
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Squinting
• Eating processed foods
• Not wearing sunscreen daily
• Smiling all the time
• Roughly removing your eye makeup
• Rubbing your eyes
• Not wearing sunglasses
• Lack of sleep
• And more
  

No. 5: Aging
When we age, our skin gradually loses collagen and elastin. When you squint, for instance, your muscles contract – fold – and straighten out again. The elastin in your body is responsible for returning this action to its original state. But when the production of collagen and elastin slows down, your body will eventually not be able to snap back, eventually leading to crows feet, under-eye wrinkles, and wrinkle folds.

Best Anti-aging Eye Creams
While we touched on many ways to prevent wrinkles above, there are some other tell tail occurrences around the eye area that can make us look older.  So I thought it would be best to share two skincare products with you that would address wrinkles as well as sagging skin, loss of collagen, and puffy eyes.  

The cliche term, which is so true, applies here: ‘Prevention is better than cure.’ And that is where great skincare like those from ALIVER come into play as while we all know aging may be a fact of life, but these eye creams I'm getting ready to share are pretty great at hiding it!

These formulas are ultra-effective and specifically made for the skin around the eyes, which is thinner and more delicate than the face. So, if you are ready to elevate your eye-treatment experience in the comfort of your own home, continue reading!

Look For A Nourishing Vitamin C Serum For The Eye Area
While a cup of coffee may be great for a wake-up call for yourself in the morning. When it comes to perking up fatigued skin and brightening up your tired eyes, it's time to call in a better reinforcement from one of my favorite skincare ingredients, Vitamin C- one of the vital active ingredients in ALIVER anti-aging eye serum.

Vitamin C ranks among the best active ingredient to use around the sensitive eye area and is loved by dermatologists. It is an excellent source of antioxidants that protect the skin and combat free radicals that lead to premature aging. It also has some extraordinary abilities to:

• Firm and smooth the skin by stimulating collagen production
• Brighten the skin by increasing cell turnover
• Even our skin tone and skin texture
• Minimize dark spots and discoloration by inhibiting melanin production
• Increase hydration to effectively reduce the appearance and severity of:
• Crows’ feet
• Fine lines
• Deep wrinkles
• Eye bags
  

Some More Bits: If a thick, rich eye cream is not your thing, a serum like this is just for you. I personally love that this serum feels weightless on the skin but can still plump fine lines and wakes up tired eyes.

Best Eye Masks
I am saving the best for last with this ALIVER Collagen Gold Moisturizing Anti-Aging Eye Mask! A natural collagen boost for your eyes, the ALIVER Collagen eye mask is formulated to target dark circles, eye bags and reduce the appearance of fine lines, giving your eye area an overall refreshed look.

These under-eye masks include Hyaluronic Acid, a star skincare ingredient for any anti-wrinkle routine. So yes, it is my secret weapon to visibly softens fine lines and wrinkles by keeping the skin hydrated, plump, and radiant.

And if that wasn't enough, this fantastic eye mask is carefully formulated with a rich blend of some other powerful natural active ingredients to restore, soothe, and improve elasticity under the eye. Ingredients like nicotinamide, pearl powder, micro gold flakes, Vitamin C, grape seed, and pomegranate extract, to name a few.

I love to use these before a Zoom call; they are ultra-moisturizing and excellent for treating wrinkles under the eyes. (The number one cause for that makeup you and everyone else see creasing and settling into fine lines)! 

Bonus Tip: I like to keep the under-eye masks in my skincare fridge. Not only does storing them in the fridge help the masks to last longer, but the cooling sensation is perfect for bagging puffiness, reducing wrinkles, and brightening a tired appearance.

To Sum It Up
Depending on the cause of your aging eye issues, you can take adequate steps to healthy skin by minimizing some of the causes and everyday occurrences I shared. And remember, no matter your age, one fact stands true, skincare for the eye area should have a firm place in your beauty routine. And with the above home remedies, you will be on your way to successfully prevent and treat under-eye wrinkles without having to spend a lot of time or money!

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Labor Day Weekend Beauty Tips

Labor Day represents the ending of summer. So this Labor Day weekend, the Beauty Spotlight Team has you set to end the Summer right with healthy looking skin and mind!

Labor Day Weekend Skincare Tips

There are plenty of buzz-worthy skincare ingredients, and when Barbie’s Beauty Bits finds one, she shares it! Check out… One gem of a skincare ingredient, “diamonds in the ground” AKA white truffles! If you love K-beauty, you need to check out this amazing skincare line. With over 7 million bottles of its white truffle-infused serum sold, I knew my skin needed this, pronto! And so does yours!

Make Sure You're Protected From The Labor Weekend Sun With These Beauty Products

Dry lips from the sun or matte lipsticks? Allison from Never Say Die Beauty just rediscovered an old favorite DHC Lip Cream and just in time for their September Gratitude Sale!

Typology Tinted Serum is filled with skincare loving ingredients, and it provides light coverage and a natural dewy finish. Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog loves this brand, and highly recommends this gem of a product.

Jump Start Your Fall Routine With These Beauty Tips

Does fall make you nostalgic or does it get you excited about new beginnings? Zoya has a new Nostalgia collection that brings up both of those emotions. Beautiful cream shades on Prime Beauty are ones you’ll want to wear for fall.

If your jeans feel tight it might be time to reset your habits. There is nothing better than loving the skin you are in, and I have the perfect plan to help you get back into your jeans, build up your immune system and love the skin you are in. Read more about how The Culinary Cure 21 Day Detox & Reset can get you back on track for fall.

Angie at Your True Self Blog would like to share with you what she learned about how to use singing bowls to heal body, mind and spirit. She liked her Tibetan singing bowl so much, she got you a 15% discount to get your own. This post has been a favorite with her readers! 

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10 Most Popular Questions About Breast Implants

10 Most Popular Questions About Breast Implants, Answered By Dr. Raj Plastic Surgeon In Dallas, Texas

For more than 10 years, breast augmentation has been one of America’s most popular plastic surgery procedures. Many women want to increase their size while enhancing the appearance of their breasts as they age, and breast implants offer a safe and effective way to improve their shape.

Before you have breast implants, you may have some questions about the procedure. Below are 10 of the most popular questions about breast augmentation.

No. 1: What Should I Know Before Getting Breast Implants?
Answer: First, keep in mind that breast augmentation is major surgery, and you will need time to recover. Most patients have a full recovery in about a month, but much depends on you.

No. 2: Saline And Silicone...Which Type Of Breast Implant Feels The Most Natural?
Answer: From saline implants to silicone, breast implants have improved in recent years, but most plastic surgeons still say that ‘gummy bear’ silicone implants feel the most like natural breasts.

No. 3:  Will My Breast Implants Need To Be Replaced At Some Point?
Answer: Yes. Modern breast implants can last a long time, but most need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. It would be best to have annual checkups to see how your existing breast implants are holding up.

No. 4: Will I Need To Have Additional Breast Surgery In The Future?
Answer: Some women’s implants may last for life, but surgeons say you shouldn’t expect this. You will likely need additional breast surgery later in life to replace your implants.

No. 5: Will I Be Able To Breastfeed After Having Implants?
Answer: Yes, most women can breastfeed after having breast implant surgery. However, during your breast augmentation consultation, you should talk to your surgeon about this because it will influence where they make their incisions.

No. 6: Will the Implants Make Mammograms Less Accurate In Detecting Breast Cancer?
Answer: Yes, breast implants make mammograms more difficult to read. But, the good news is an MRI or sonogram can be used to check for breast cancer in patients with breast implants.

No.7: How Long Should I Take Off From Work?
Answer: Breast augmentation is major surgery, so you should plan to take at least a week off work. If you work from home, you may be able to take only a day or two off, though.

No. 8: What Implants Look The Most Natural?
Answer: Surgeons have different opinions, but many say implant placement under the muscle using silicone implants often looks like natural breasts. Choosing an implant size in proportion to your body also matters for more natural-looking breast size.

No. 9: What Happens If You Don't Replace Your Breast Implants?
Answer: If you don’t replace your implants eventually, the risks of breast complications rise. One of the most common issues is capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant contracts and damages it.

No. 10: What Type of Breast Implants Last The Longest?
Answer: Whichever type of implant you choose, it’s like that it will need to be replaced eventually. With the chance of implant rupture increasing by one percent each year, the older your implants are, the greater your risk of rupture or other complications. Most implants need to be replaced after 10-15 years, but some may last more than 20.

Breast implant surgery is a popular and safe procedure. However, if you keep the information above in mind, you’ll go into your procedure with as much information as possible.

About Dallas Plastic Surgeon Raja Mohan, MD
Dr. Raja Mohan is a highly skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon with years of training in reconstructive and aesthetic surgeries of the face and body. Dr. Raj is one of the few cosmetic surgeons in the Fort Worth and Dallas area with this kind of experience in aesthetic plastic surgery.

Dr. Raj also offers patients cutting-edge, non-invasive procedures with dermal fillers in liquid rhinoplasty, chemical peels, and laser skin resurfacing.

He completed his undergraduate degree in mathematics from MIT and became interested in plastic surgery. Dr. Raj earned his medical degree at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

To learn more about Dr. Raj Plastic Surgery in Dallas, visit him online.

References:

What To Consider Before You Get Breast Augmentation. (2018).

Things To Consider Before Getting Breast Implants. (n.d.).

Will Your Breast Implants Last A Lifetime? (n.d.)

 

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K-beauty's No.1 White Truffle Skincare Line, d'Alba Piedmont

There are plenty of buzz-worthy skincare ingredients, and for the month of August, I have been sharing some of these cutting-edge ingredients with you.

One gem of an ingredient I will be talking about today is found in K-beauty. K-beauty brands have been elevating the entire skincare game for years. So, when Barbie's Beauty Bits hears of a new brand hitting the US market or, better yet, a must-have K-beauty ingredient, I will check it out, and if I like what I see, I will share it with you, my beauties.

One brand that has ranked No.1 in the K-Beauty online skincare scene is d'Alba Piedmont. When I heard the brand sold seven million bottles of its white truffle-infused serum in South Korea, I knew my skin needed this, pronto!  

What makes the d'Alba Piedmont skincare line so popular amongst celebrities? It's gourmet skincare ingredient, white truffles. So, if you want to find out what is so impressive about white truffles in anti-aging and why you need to check out the d'Alba Piedmont white truffle skincare line, continue reading.

d'Alba Piedmont The Gourmet Skincare Brand
d'Alba is derived from d'Alba, an Italian sanctuary full of white truffles called 'diamonds in the ground.' Before I get into the many skincare benefits this "gem" ingredient has to offer; I'd love to share some background as it is pretty interesting.

You see, Italy is a playground for truffle hunters. There are 25 species found there, nine of them edible. None is rarer than the trifola d'Alba Madonna', the white truffle, known as the "Diamond of Alba." (Or diamonds in the ground).  This mushroom is grown underground and takes about 7-10 years to harvest.

Since these truffles are such rare treasures, their market price is driven by an enormous demand. Set daily as the best truffle, at Alba Truffle Market, the average cost can skyrocket to more than $3,000 per pound. But that hasn't turned away K-beauty brand d'Alba Piedmont. Nope, they work with a professional white truffle extraction organization to ensure the best processes. And catch this...Due to Piedmont law, d'Alba is only allowed to this prized ingredient from September through January.

So, what is the fuss all about with white truffles anyways? They are just mushrooms found in dirt.

The Benefits Of White Truffles In Skincare
Well, it turns out this delicacy does some fantastic things for the skin. Honestly, I was not surprised as mushrooms provide many skin-loving benefits; white truffles, particularly, tout unique properties that make them even more favorable for addressing numerous skincare concerns, especially those regarding anti-aging.

This prized white mushroom delivers a powerhouse of nutrients to the skin, such as
•    Anti-aging peptides
•    Essential fatty acids
•    Vitamin B12
•    Vitamin C
•    Ceramides

These ingredients found in white truffles are what make them that hidden gem! 

• First, they contain fatty acids and emollients that support the skin barrier. 
• Rich in natural hydrating amino acids, white truffle nourishes the skin with hydration and boosts moisture levels for a softer, smoother complexion.
• Outstanding skin repair as it is packed with antioxidants to help fight free radical damage that can lead to premature aging.
• Aid in the repair of sun-damaged skin, with the high vitamin C content for brightening the skin and the vitamin B12 for hyperpigmentation and smoothing rough texture. 
• They are anti-inflammatory, helping to alleviate redness and irritation. It also targets the less visible, minor inflammation that can also make skin look older and lackluster.

And with that, I am sold!

Amazon's Hidden Skincare Gem
If you're looking to try the best of the best when it comes to Korean skincare, d'Alba Piedmont is a great place to start.

While d'Alba products are over-the-counter products, they have been tested by dermatologists. They are all are vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and paraben-free, making them safe for sensitive skin.  

Below are five products from the White Truffle line I think you're going to love. And with everything under $40 and all available on Amazon Prime (means no shipping costs), you're going to be shopping in no time.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle First Spray Serum
This is the true star in this truffle skincare line, and with over 7 million bottles sold, voted best spray serum in more than 120 beauty stores, exported throughout 15 countries globally, and over 51,000 reviews. As they say, this product has your back; I say it's your skin's BFF and a wrinkles worst enemy!

Fans swear by its triple function to improve fine lines and wrinkles, brighten, and deliver major hydration to the skin with its nourishing extracts from white truffle, lotus, avocado oil, sunflower seed oil, and chia seed extract.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Vital Spray Serum
This is the pick me up your skin needs. This intensely hydrating spray energizes fatigued skin and leaves it glowing with a luxe blend of Italian white truffle and natural red oils (rosehip oil, red rose oil, and scented geranium oil).

I love this serum because it protects the skin from environmental stressors while giving your skin the elastin boost it needs. Works great thrown in your purse or overnight bag for a quick makeup refresher.

The d'alba Piedmont No-Sebum Peptide Line
Free of parabens, artificial fragrances, animal ingredients, and mineral oil. This line is designed to remove excess oil and purify the skin.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Peptide No-Sebum Gel Cleanser
This mild gel cleanser includes a powerful blend of BHA's to exfoliate dead skin cells delicately, clear excess sebum, and blackheads.

And of course, the star ingredient, white truffles, works to speed up cellular turnover by supplying ample nutrients to the skin, leaving it moisturized and refreshed.

A great bonus with this cleanser is there is no need to double cleanse as it clears all impurities, even heavy makeup, with one application while supplying the skin with nutrients from its organic substances.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Peptide No-Sebum Repair Cream
It's time to get your daily dose of intense hydration with this multifunctional cream ideal for oily skin and uneven texture. This cream provides various functions, including enhancement of skin vitality, texture, relief, and glow! Its lightweight finish leaves your face feeling soft and silky! 

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Peptide No-Sebum Toner
The skin's balancing act...This multitasking toner is alcohol-free and suitable for all skin types. It is formulated with soothing ingredients such as niacinamide, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, and coconut extract, known to enhance the skin's health while removing excess oil and purifying the skin.

Other Benefits:

• Brightens The Complexion-Brings back radiance and brightens the skin while providing antioxidant benefits to help fight free radicals.
• Stimulates Skin Renewal-The Italian White Truffle Extract moisturizes and stimulates cell renewal while peptides create firm, plump skin.
• Provides Light Exfoliation-The BHA gently exfoliates and removes excess sebum to deep clean pores and keep your skin clear.

By adding the right toner to your routine, you can amp up your skincare regimen, as toners are great for helping to prep your skin for anti-aging treatments and serums.

Sum It Up For Us
To sum it up, while white truffles are difficult to source and much more potent than some other skincare ingredients, white truffles are the ultimate luxe skincare ingredient and so worth investing in.

And don't worry, you will not break the bank! Unlike some other luxury skincare companies using the truffle's ultra-extravagant reputation to justify jaw-dropping pricing, the d'Alba Piedmont brand is readily accessible on Amazon, with free shipping from Prime members and quick delivery.

So, what are you waiting for? This K-beauty brand has already become an Amazon bestseller, and due to d'Alba's quality products, it has captivated the heart of QVC, HSN and now Barbie’s Beauty Bits. 

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Help What Color Is My Hair Color, Really

I saw this gorgeous photo of my hair taken by my stylist, Laura at Dupres Salon And Day Spa and was surprised at my hair color. While it is the color I wanted, I realized when looking at this photo that my hair looks different in every mirror, in every room in my house, at work, at a restaurant, and at different times of the day. So one of my friends was like, so is the color I see not your real hair color, and I answered, no, it is not.

So what color is my hair, really?

Well, according to my stylist, nature never lies. Hence, the best way to see what your highlighted or colored hair actually looks like is to go outside with a mirror in the natural sunlight. Or, in this case, as close to the outdoors as possible, when Laura took my photo.

My Hair, Leaving Dupres Salon And Day Spa In Virginia Beach

Why Does My Hair Color Look Different In Different Lighting? 

Ever wondered why your hair color seems different in every single room of your house and every darn photo? If so, then read on.

Many of us are aware of this when it comes to photos, but it can fool the eye, when sitting right in front of someone. I've noticed a few times after getting my hair colored my hair seems to have a yellowish undertone in my new house, which results in a brassy look when reflected on the hair. 

See the photo below of me. I was doing a photoshoot for Goli's Gummies after getting my hair done. But you will notice the coloring difference. And yes, this was on the same day. I was so surprised, as I actually thought my hair color was the color in the Goli image, which is a bit brassy when truthfully, my hair is more of an ash hue. What the heck?????? That is a big difference, wouldn't you say?

Some other lighting effects on the hair you may not have known about.

• While in warmer, orange-based lights, your hair will reflect a warmer, honey to brass color.
• Under cold white or blueish lights, your hair will appear to be more ash-blonde.
• Outside... The true color

Hair Products To Keep Your Colored Hair Looking It's Best
Wanna keep your colored hair at its best? Then make sure to use products that are perfect for anti-frizz, maintains scalp health, helps reduce hair loss, and promotes healthy hair growth! So what products can do this? Kimtrue. With the meanings KIM -- brilliance, TRUE -- real, accurate. Kind of funny speaking of this post of what is my true, real, accurate, hair color.

Shampoo And Conditioner For Colored Treated Hair
I am so loving this Kimtrue Sea Salt Shampoo and Seaweed Extract Hair Conditioner. Aside from ingredients that actually work, they are sulfate-free, and the brand is sustainably focused. 

Same Week, Hair Color Looks Different

Hair Treatments To Use Between Hair Appointments
Looking for a hair treatment to hold you over in between hair appointments, then I suggest trying Kimtrue's Repair Hair Mask With Macrocystis Pyrifera. This mask treatment is eight times that of Seaweed Essential Conditioner, which means it has eight times the repairing energy of facial cream. What?? Yes, this is like skincare for your hair.

Also contains:

• Panthenol- Which can help the hair maintain a certain amount of water, moisturize and increase toughness, protect the split ends of the hair, and deposit the hair to resist external damage.
• Hydrolyzed Keratin- Collagen, silk peptides, intercellular lipids, and ingredients that promote hair shine and restore elasticity and toughness of the hair.
  

And there you have it. So next you wanna snap a photo of what your hair looks like, try outdoor lighting for the best, true, accurate picture, until next time!

Shop below for some Kimtrue hair products and as a reminder as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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