Who get Melasma?

I love tanning too. I layed out this weekend and felt great! I was feeling so white! When it is warm enough for the pool I am going to lay on my stomach on a flimsy float so there is no pressure on my stomach, but for now I am satisfied with whatever sun I can get!

My concern is related to pregnancy induced melasma-those dark patches of skin that can appear on your face with sun exposure. Women who get melasma during pregnancy have a really hard time getting rid of it postpartum. I always recommend pregnant women wear a high level broad spectrum sunscreen on their face (at least) to prevent this condition. Believe me, once you get those dark patches it's very, very hard to get rid of them. Prevention is key.

Why Does Melasma Occur?

It is still not known what causes Melasma, however, it is thought that it could be because of an increase in the melanin producing cells. The skin's dark color is due to the melanin present in it.

The skin discoloration caused by Melasma usually begins to diminish as there is a stabilization of the hormones. Hence, pregnant women affected with Melasma usually find their skin discoloration fading within months of giving birth to the baby. And as for women on hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives, they usually find the discolorations fading once the medications are stopped. Protecting the skin from the sun can help in not exacerbating the condition.

Can I Develop Melasma?

Melasma are dark, blotchy marks that appear on the face, especially in the forehead, cheeks, upper lips, chin, and nose. They may also occur in other skin areas often exposed to the sun, like the forearms and back. Their color, which also determines their type, varies from brown (epidermal melasma), blue-gray (dermal melasma), or brown-gray (mixed). Among these, it is commonly thought that dermal melasma is harder to treat.

A very common skin disorder, melasma often occurs among women. Those with brownish skin tones are the most susceptible ones, like Hispanics, Asians, and those who live in areas with intense sun exposure. Nevertheless, men also get affected by melasma, but they make up only a measly 10% of melasma sufferers.

Caused by an imbalance of hormones, melasma is the result of excess melanin being deposited in the dermal or epidermal layers of the skin. Your skin naturally darkens, or tans, in response to sun exposure, due to the pigment melanin. In women with melasma, the imbalance of melanin in certain areas of the face cause the dark patches to form.

The majority of melasma cases occur during pregnancy or with oral contraceptive use, but women who are taking hormone replacement therapy can also develop melasma. Between 50% and 70% of pregnant women experience melasma, usually during the second or third trimester. Melasma seems to run in families — if your mother and grandmother had melasma, you are more likely to develop it.

Top 3 Products From Amazon

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Dangers of Hydroquinone Cream

  Creams that lighten the skin  have been around for many years. They have been used in the pursuit of beauty in terms of lightening blemishes or even the skin in general. In the quest for beauty, there are side effects that can occur, while using this cream. This article will explore the many dangers that can arise from using hydroquione, a popular ingredient in most skin lightening products. It will look at how it can affect the skin and much more.

Hydroquinone is an active ingredient that can be found in a wide variety of  skin lightening creams  It is generally an agent that bleaches the skin. Enzyme reactions that occur in the skin cells are blocked by this product.

Melanin that occurs in persons skin is slowed down because of this. The color of the skin is derived from melanin. The lightening of areas of the skin that have darkened is the general use of hydroquinone. This darkening can be a result of age spots, cholasma, freckles, melasma and other types of skin discolorations. Hydroquinone has other uses, that can be determined by the doctor.

Banned in Europe, hydroquinone has been known to be dangerous and have negative side effects. Up until 2001, products that contained 2% hydroquinone were available legally. The perception people had were changed once the dangers were discovered.

The product is highly dangerous because it often contains mercury. Liver and kidney damage are some of the problems that can occur. There is also proof that using hydroquinone can lead to the condition that disfigures the skin called ochnronosis. Grayish brown spots occur as well as the skin becoming dark and thick. There is also the possibility that after you stop using the product, your melanin cells that were suppressed, may go haywire and start causing more pigmentation.

If you are going to use products that contain hydroquinone, then you should use ones with the lowest concentrations. In the future potential health issues can occur from the high concentration in the products. You should also stay away from creams that also contain mercury. A licensed skin specialist should be consulted if you plan on using these creams. You will be able to learn about the many different pros and cons associated with these creams.

Sun Damage and Skin Pigmentation: Treating Facial ...

Hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is a chemical that lightens skin. It is the primary component of the Obagi system which when used properly and consistently resolves pigmentation evening skin tones. Hydoquinone is banned in some countries ...   Read more...

Secrets of skin whitening

But cancer is not the only health hazard associated with skin whitening. And many people are not fully aware of the possible dangers. Using skin whitening products can damage the skin and cause it to loose its protective properties, ...   Read more...

Adverse Side Effects of Commonly Used Ingredients in Skin

Hydroquinone was once the standard upon which most skin whitening products were based upon. As the active ingredient in toners and astringents, hydroquinone promised an easy and pain-free treatment for common problems with skin 

By: James Dalton

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

For more information on Hydroquinone Dangers please visit the website. James Dalton writes on many different topics as it relates to the Hydroquinone Cream. You can get more information on other products such as Hydroquinone

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There are many people who suffer with melasma and are not sure whether or not to undergo the usual bleaching treatment. The decision of whether or not to undertake the bleaching process can seem an obvious one to many sufferers, who simply want the telltale melasma markings to go away so that they can live a normal life.

While bleaching is the most common form of  treatment for melasma , a condition characterised by dark pigmentation on the forehead, nose, cheeks and upper lip, it does take several months to see results and may not clear up the markings 100 percent. For these reasons, many sufferers find themselves unsure of whether or not to go ahead with the bleaching.

The main reason more people are opting out of the bleaching method has to do with the overall effectiveness of the treatment. Waiting for more than six months before you notice results, and possibly living with a mere lightened version of the primary skin condition is not particularly appealing. Fortunately, there are other options open to you if you have the condition, and careful consideration should be given to each of these if you think you want to forego traditional treatment.

Dermabrasion, laser therapy and vitamin supplements are all being widely considered by doctors, dermatologists and patients who have found great results in other people. Anything less invasive is usually more popular, however there are people who are very determined to get rid of the markings and therefore are willing to undergo any treatment necessary, regardless of the risks and the chance that it will not be entirely effective.

Of course there are completely different reasons for deciding against the bleaching, and those have more to do with an ideology of take what you have been dealt. There are some people with melasma who believe that, like any other beauty blemish, they simply must learn to live with the condition. In the same school of thought there are people who do not dye their hair, wax their upper lips or apply makeup, so it follows that some people with melasma think it is unnecessary to treat the condition at all.

After all, you should not be defined by a dark patch of skin on your face! Most people will agree that the world on the whole is far too judgemental about any unusual aspects of appearance, and this is what drives so many melasma sufferers to immediately undertake bleaching. So given the circumstances, would you rather live with the marks or bleach it away?

The choice is not so simple, and your answer will depend greatly on where and how you were brought up, and probably on your current level of self esteem. If you have never had issues with feeling good about yourself, then chances are much greater you may decide not to  bleach the melasma away . If you are one of the many people who have had self esteem issues for their entire lives, bleaching will seem like a lifeline to you in a time of need.

Melasma is a widespread condition, and the truth is that as dismaying as it may be to develop the pigmentation, there are many others out there coping with it in their own ways. It may do you some good to not jump directly onto the bleaching bandwagon. Give some real thought to how you want to proceed, and weight all your options out before deciding. There are many  ways to deal with melasma , so be confident that you have chosen the right one for you!

Skin bleaching in the Carribbean

Give the people a decent historical framework to work with and then lets talk about the level of skin bleaching. Right now, its at the level its supposed to be. Which leads to another question. 

Dying to be Light?

A popular side effect of skin bleaches include the very visible dark patches on the face that are a result of sun burn, since bleaching thins the skin and makes it more vulnerable to sun damage. 

Choosing an Effective Skin Lightening Cream

In the first variants of formulas of skin lightening creams a form of bleaching was used to try and rectify these skin ailments with the most notorious ingredient known as Hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is a skin blecheaching agent that can .

Author: Louise Forrest

Suffering from melasma does not need to be a horrible experience. With the right facial range you can help to prevent any potential ailments. You should spend some time learning about skin care and how it can benefit you

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louise_Forrest

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Black skin bleaching cream

Melasma is an uncomfortable condition suffered by many women of all skin types and colors. Often the first recommendation for sufferers of hyperpigmentation and melasma  is to buy an over the counter bleaching skin cream for skin whitening containing hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is the skin whitening agent of these creams.

Unfortunately, what most women using these skin bleaching products don't know is that they are unsafe enough to have been banned in many places, including parts of Europe and all of Asia, due to the belief that higher concentrations are carcinogenic. Hydroquinone has been associated with severe side effects, some effecting the liver, kidney and thyroid. In some cases it may cause a permanent black discoloration called exogenous ochronosis.

Fortunately there are many  natural known ingredients  that can be used to lighten the skin as effectively as hydroquinone, without the health risks. Some of these ingredients include combinations of Arbutin, Vitamins A, C and E, and a brand new natural discovery called Lumiskin.

Arbutin is nature's own hydroquinone. Made from the bearberry tree, it can be safely used for a long period of time. A safe and effective skin lightener and antioxidant, Arbutin reduces free radical damage that ages the skin, and protects from the sun's UV rays. It also has antibacterial properties.

Vitamins A, C and E are a powerful combination when used together in skincare. Vitamin A is an antioxidant that helps promote healthy skin. It improves pigmentation by eliminating age spots, firming skin and fighting wrinkles. It also helps exfoliates dead surface skin cells. Vitamin C is an effective antioxidant which lightens skin by inhibiting melanin. It works against the damaging free radicals that dull the skin. Vitamin E is also a powerful antioxidant that is known to be very good for the skin. When Vitamin E is combined with Vitamin C, each are made more effective.

Lumiskin is an amazing new antioxidant product made from Chilean tree bark. It helps prevent future skin discoloration by inhibiting stress receptors. Lumiskin controls melanin to effectively lighten complexions, make skin color more even, and makes skin more radiant.

Melasma and skin pigmentation are difficult problems. They can be hard to treat effectively, and without the proper knowledge sufferers may turn to bleaching creams containing hydroquinone. However, there are well-formulated products available made with combinations of Arbutin, Vitamins A,C and E, and Lumiskin, and other effective natural ingredients. Some powerful skin lightening ingredients can even be found at your grocery store and solutions can be made at home. With the right knowledge, sufferers of melasma can get safe and powerful results without resorting to hydroquinone.

Hydroquinone

The Benefits: Since 1982, hydroquinone has been FDA-approved for the treatment of freckles, melasma, and general brown patching. Today, hydroquinone is the most commonly used bleaching agent in the United States. Over time, hydroquinone 

Skin Care with Herbs

In western medical practice, melasma is usually treated with bleaching agents such as hydroquinone, which is rather harsh. Chinese hawthorn fruit has never been known to be toxic and is a common food and medicine. 

Alternatives to hydroquinone - Arbutin

Hydroquinone is a harsh chemical that works well in reducing the appearance of melasma, but at what cost? Yes, I want to reduce my melasma, but I also want to be kind to my body. And this is why I’d like to recommend arbutin

Melasma: The Mask of Pregnancy

Laser therapy or intense pulsed light therapy combined with hydroquinone and sunscreen may be effective in dermal or refractory mixed-type melasma. Laser therapy is not recommended for epidermal melasma. 

Author: Alicia Green

For more information, an all-natural skin brightening cream containing these powerful ingredients, and free, powerful secret home remedies to combat pigmentation, melasma, age spots and uneven skin tone, http://skinbrightening.googlepages.com/home

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alicia_Green

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Many people would love to freshen up their skin and take a few years off of their face but do not want to go to extremes such as plastic surgery or Botox injections. Fortunately, there are many options available that involve no incisions, injections, or other frightening and very permanent procedures.

Chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser skin resurfacing are three methods of facial rejuvenation that can help you look and feel years younger without the commitment and cost of plastic surgery.

Chemical peels treat a variety of problems including fine lines, acne, scars, sun damage, uneven skin tone, deep wrinkles, and can even help eliminate pre-cancerous growths. There are three main types: superficial, medium and deep. Each uses different combinations of chemicals to attain desired results.

Superficial and medium peels involve applying the chemical to the skin and then removing it after a set period of time. There is little or no pain, but may be some redness afterwards. Deep peels are more intense and may require pain medication and possibly fluids delivered via IV. A special ointment or tape is then applied after the peel which must remain on the face for a day or so.

Superficial and medium chemical treatments can help remove minor facial impurities such as fine lines, melasma and acne. They will leave your face looking refreshed and even, but to see optimal results a few treatments may be needed over a period of time.

Sometimes superficial peels are used before deep peels to prep the skin. Deeper treatments cannot be used on those with darker skin pigments as it could cause discoloration. The effects of deep treatments are dramatic and visible immediately. Skin looks and feels tighter and smoother.

If chemical peels sound too harsh or extreme for you, dermabrasion is a mild alternative. A wand with a rotating disc is massaged over the face. The disc has a rough surface which loosens the first few layers of cells from the skin's surface, revealing the new, unblemished layer beneath.

The procedure is gentle enough for most skin types, but don't expect the results to be dramatic. Continued dermabrasion over time has shown great improvements in the skin appearance and texture, but there are no overnight results. Over time, consistent use can help eliminate blemishes that lie deep within the skin layers.

Laser skin resurfacing is sometimes used in conjunction with chemical peels to achieve optimal results. A laser destroys the top layers of skin cells, eliminating wrinkles, fine lines, acne, and melasma discoloration. Usually one treatment is enough, but sometimes a second may be necessary. Pain medication is often necessary after treatment and you will need a few days for recovery.

Facial rejuvenation doesn't have to involve highly invasive injections or plastic surgery.To achieve a fresh-looking face you don't always have to go the extremes. Before assuming you need a facelift or injections to eliminate unwanted wrinkles, consider a less invasive option first.

Starting a dermabrasion routine early can even prevent you from having to undergo laser or chemical treatments down the road.

Basic Understanding

Severe cases of acne may cause pitted skin and scarring. If you have deep acne scars you may want to go for dermabrasion or dermaplaning to give your skin a smoother appearance. These can be used on small areas of the face. There are a wide variety of products.

The most valuable tips on getting rid Melasma

While laser skin resurfacing, Dermabrasion, and chemical peels. are the most popular methods for acne scar removal, injection methods are also used. The injections may contain collagen, or fat taken from other parts

Microdermabrasion Vs Chemical Peel - Which is Better?

Microdermabrasion and chemical peel treatments are both similar in alot of ways. They scrape out the outer layers of the skin bringing about a removal of dead cells, debris and scars on the face.

Skin Peel vs. Microdermabrasion

When compared to Dermabrasion, the makers of Skin Culture Peel claim that their chemical peel treatments are more gentle on the skin. Dermabrasion is a surgical technique that requires your skin to be sanded with a steel .

By: A Aaronson

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Need to perk up your face for that special occasion? Harrisburg cosmetic surgery aestheticians can help you look your best with non-invasive facial rejuvenation treatments like peels, dermabrasion and laser skin resurfacing. Visit them here to learn more. www.berksplasticsurgery.com.

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Hyperpigmentation is where areas of skin become darker in colour than the surrounding skin. This occurs when an external influence such as UV radiation or cosmetic treatments (even hair removal using tear off strips) create inflammation in the skin (often not visible), which stimulates skin cells called 'melanocytes' to produce more melanin or skin pigment. This can affect the skin colour of people of any race.

The most common inflammatory trigger is UV radiation, which normally triggers a general increase in pigmentation production so we become more "tanned." However, our internal bodily controls prevent over-production of melanin. When our internal bodily control systems may not be at its peak, such as when pregnant or later in life, some melanocytes may 'break free' of these reduced restraints and over-produce pigment, causing the following conditions:

- Melasma
- Chloasma
- Pregnancy mask
- Liver Spots
- Age Spots

They usually occur in those areas that have had the most inflammatory exposure, such as the face, hands and the arms. Often, one may suffer different levels of darkening in different facial areas due to over-exposure to the sun. This is often in bonier parts, where the UV is 'reflected' back off the underlying bones which can have an enhanced inflammatory effect.

Changes in skin colour can also result from several other circumstances. For example, inflammation triggered by acne may result in dark spots remaining after the acne clears. Other inflammatory causes are perfumes, hair removal, injuries and burns, including some surgeries.

Some skin types and/or some families naturally react faster to inflammatory triggers. Darker skin types should be aware that clinical procedures such as chemical and physical peels, injections and lasers can also cause an inflammatory response which may lead to pigmentation changes.

Freckles and other darkened skin patches can also become darker or more pronounced when skin is exposed to the sun.

If you suffer from hyperpigmentation on your skin, you know that finding a good hyperpigmentation treatment can be a difficult challenge. Costly cosmetic procedures may not even work. Turning to a topical cream may be a good start, as long as you use the right one.

There is no shortage of fading creams. Some, such as those containing hydroquinone, can even be harmful to your health! This particular ingredient is banned in the EU due to a cancer-question mark over it. Finding the right cream can be a frustrating process of trial and error - mistakes you make can do more damage than good.

If you find an effective and healthy cream, even then, you may find that it fades your brown spots, but not completely. And you will also probably notice that after using certain products which may provide a short-term period of relief, your hyperpigmentation returns to haunt you again.

To fight your hyperpigmentation, you should consider using a product called Thiospot. Thiospot has natural based ingredients which build up in the skin over a number of weeks resulting in a gradual slowing down in melanin production, so excessive production is normalised safely, resulting in new lighter skin cells migrating to the skin surface and replacing older darker skin through natural shedding, encouraged by a mild exfoliant, such as Lactic acid.

Also, Thiospot contains MSM which helps to reduce inflammation which is precedes and promotes excess pigment production.

Lastly Thiospot contains the latest organic based plant sun filters which effectively reduce UV which can trigger excess pigmentation in sensitive areas. Standard sun filters can irritate cellular membranes and cause inflammation and although protecting the skin from direct UV effects. This inflammation itself can be a pigmentation trigger.

Melasma: Causes and Treatments

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid or mandelic acid exfoliate the skin's top layer thereby removing pigmentation. Research has shown that they may also inhibit the production.

Guide to Melasma and Hormone Imbalances

Apple Cider Vinegar for Age Spots � Lactic Acid Peel for Younger-Looking Skin (and more!) » Skinverse Guide to Melasma and Hormone Imbalances. This page has gotten rather long as I continue to add more information.

Melasma Treament with Exuvince Skin Brightening Gel

A skin-renewing blend of anti-aging Polyhydroxy and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (PHAs and AHAs), including Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid and Gluconolactone - along with skin brighteners including Kojic Acid, Vitamin C,

By: SkinMed

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Unfortunately, hyperpigmentation can be a burden for many people. Use Thiospot, a medically-proven hyperpigmentation treatment by SkinMed

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There are many ways to repair skin damage and maintain its youthful appearance. It could be as simple as following basic skin care, avoiding those that lead to skin damage and finding all natural skin care products ideal for your type of skin. The problem, however, is that there are so many different creams and skin care products out there. Skin care tips are sometimes contradictory that the once simple solution to skin damage became more baffling.

There is no best cream for everyone but there is such a thing as healthiest cream for your skin. This is because people's skin type differs. Some are oilier while some are drier. Some are more tolerant of the sun's rays while some are more sensitive. A person's lifestyle should also dictate on which cream to purchase. This is because people can be exposed to different triggers that cause free radicals. This means that all natural skin care products you have to purchase should focus on protection your skin needs the most.

The first thing one has to consider when buying the healthiest cream is its protection against the sun. Long exposure to the sun has been long proven to lead to skin damage that sunscreen is one of the best bets for choosing one. Being exposed to the sun for long hours has many consequences including sun spots, discoloration, dryness and wrinkles.

The condition of the skin will inevitably deteriorate with time but it can be slowed down with apt skin regimen and all natural skin care products. There are a few components that your cream has to have to guarantee that it would help you keep that youthful glow. The first one is antioxidants. Free radicals lead to oxidation which has been considered to be a culprit in the process of skin aging. Antioxidants, such as vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E have been known to kill free radicals and keep the cells of the skin healthy. Having these ingredients in your skin care products would definitely prove to be beneficial.

Products with water and oil need preservatives to prevent bacterial growth after they are opened. Most skin care products contain preservatives, such as quaternium-15 and imidazolidynyl urea, that sometimes cause skin irritation. For people who have skin reactions from these preservatives, it is best to resort to all natural skin care products.

Another main consideration is the moisturizing properties of the cream. Moisturizers, in all natural skin care products, can hold water in the outermost layer of skin. Aside from that, they also act as a temporary barrier that allows damaged cells of the skin to be repaired on their own. Again, it all depends on the type of your skin. For normal to oily skin, water-based moisturizers are best to avoid that greasy feeling. On the other hand, those with dry skin and mature skin may need more moisturizing components that it has to be oil-based.

It is not enough to use the cream that suits your skin best. You still have follow a basic skin care regimen and avoid other factors that lead to skin damage. A multi-level strategy might just do wonders for skin repair and its maintenance. Having a well-balanced diet and having a healthy lifestyle can also improve the condition of your skin.

By: Georgina R. Clay

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Click Here to Discover the Most Effective All Natural Skin Care Products that reduce face lines, scars and Unwanted Wrinkles. Visit www.bestantiagingskincreams.com to discover the shocking truth that now one else wants to expose.

Tips for Caring for Mature Skin

How do you know if your skin is considered mature? If any of the following describes your skin then you have mature skin. Skin shows wrinkles, dark spots or discoloration. Skin produces very little oil.

Makeup For Different Complexions

Makeup trends for asian women. once you have found the proper foundation, the next trick is enlarging your eyes. first apply a neutral color from the lash line to the brow to even out any discoloration.

Acne

Understanding skin problems: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and related conditions. new york: john wiley and sons, 2003. preston, lydia, et al. breaking out: a woman’s guide to coping with acne.

Skin Care Designed for Results

MD Formulations Vit-A-Plus Illuminating Masque is a gentle masque formulated to even out skin tone with alpha hydroxy acids and retinol. Time-release vitamin C and natural grape seed extract help the skin improve its defenses

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Cam*ou*flage (kam e-flaj) n. -- Camouflage is defined in the dictionary as a means of disguising things completely, so they appear a natural part of the surroundings. This holds true for the advanced camouflage make-up available today that conceals major to minor skin imperfections, with precision, yet with a perfectly natural look. This new technology, offers the convenience of a cover-up formula that works for both face and body without setting powder.

Application techniques have also become more patient friendly to accommodate the women and men who may not wear ordinary make-up, but need to cover unsightly skin flaws. According to the most recent criteria requested by Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons and other skin care professionals, camouflage cosmetics should have these inherent qualities:

* Clinically Tested

* Allergy Tested

* Fragrance Free

* Non-Comedogenic

* Opaque Coverage

* Long Lasting

* Waterproof

* Non-Greasy

* Smudge-Resistant

* Appropriate For All Skin Types

* Natural Shade Selection

* Ease of Application

* Blendability

Serving as an adjunctive service to physician care, Camouflage Therapy helps people help themselves. Skin problems can range from pigmentation disturbances to post operative trauma to diseases of the skin. The camouflage material must be versatile enough to mask most skin imperfections including: Birthmarks, Post Laser Redness, Surgical Discolorations, Chemical Peels, Bruising, Hypo and Hyper Pigmentation, Vitiligo, Rosacea, Lupus, Melasma, Dark Eye Circles, Broken Capillaries, Cleft and Craniofacial Conditions, Acne Blemishes, Psoriasis, Sun Spots, Age Spots, Brown Spots, Varicose Veins and Spider Veins, Surface Scars, Uneven Skin Tone, Fine Lines, Furrows, Freckles, and Tattoos.

Detailed instructions should accompany Corrective Cosmetics so that patients can master the cover-p applications that best suits their needs. They want instructions to be short, simple and easy to follow at home. Support services should ideally be provided at a toll-free number or on a dedicated website.

In today's society, where outward image and appearance are increasingly important, camouflaging is gaining speed s the practical solution. 'Cosmetic cover-ups are desirable options for eliminating some of the emotional barriers caused by skin disfigurations, says Steven D. Shapiro, Board Certified Dermatologist, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. He commends the fact that the new age concealers have become uncomplicated and satisfy his multigenerational patient base.

With the increased use of camouflaging to hide skin flaws, new application techniques have been developed by Aestheticians and Corrective Make-Up Artists, to provide gratifying results for their clients. Consider these case studies:

* Case #1. Linda K, was born with a large port-wine stain running from her neck down to her shoulder. As a twin, having this noticeable mark was very disturbing during her formative years. Until she discovered a concealer that would really last, she tried to live with it. However, she now applies a one-step formula that goes on creamy and dries to a matte finish and she wore a low cut dress to her daughter's wedding.

* Case #2. Angela E, was born with a hemangioma on her face that grew to huge proportions and seriously disfigured her physically and mentally. With the support of her grandmother and caring physicians, she underwent over 30 surgeries and grafts to give her a more normal appearance. Now that she is in her late teens, camouflage make-up has been a welcome solution to some of the scarring and uneven skin-tone that resulted from the reconstructive surgery.

Proven Application Techniques:

According to Christina Smith, Hollywood Make-Up Artist and Academy Award nominee, "I couldn't do my job without Camouflage Cosmetics. Most of the beautiful stars I work with have something to hide and I must give coverage that lasts under studio lights. Very often, I need to mix 2 or more shades to obtain the perfect match for my client's skin tone (there's no retouching in film photography). Although the shade mixing can be done on the hand, I prefer to use a Q-tip and blend the shades on a piece of wax paper... less mess and easier blending.

* Camouflage make-up is very opaque and should be applied gradually until complete coverage is achieved. Allow time for make-up to dry completely.

* Corrective Cosmetics should be formulated to be worn under make-up, over make-up or alone.

* For best results choose a camouflage make-up shade that closely matches your skin tone. Match the area that is being covered since the skin on your hand may be a different shade than your face.

* Use a light, non-greasy primer before applying camouflage products. This primer will help prepare the skin for a smoother application.

* Blending is the KEY to successful camouflaging on large areas. For a nice smooth finish, apply cover material and use a dry, wedge-shaped sponge to evenly blend make-up on face and neck. For targeted areas such as scars and blemishes use fingertips to blend edges.

* Try using camouflage products for contouring: use a slightly darker shade than your natural skin tone to minimize areas. For example, to minimize a broad nose, draw contour line down both sides of the nose and blend with a sponge. Contouring and highlighting can help minimize the look of swelling.

* Camouflage products are much more than ordinary foundations and concealers. They can be used daily as a foundation for uneven skin tones and to soften the redness associated with rosacea.

* For scarred areas use a camouflage crme slightly darker than skin tone since scarred tissue usually has a loss of pigment.

* For post surgery, use a concealing make-up that is creamy in texture so it won't pull on the skin during the application process.

* It is recommended that cosmetic surgery patients purchase their camouflage makeup before surgery in the correct shade since it is difficult to "shop post op."

* After procedures around the eyes, it may be simpler for the patient to use a highly pigmented cover-stick with a creamy consistency to get into corners and avoid tugging on the delicate eye area.

* A word of caution -- all cosmetic cover-ups should never be applied to open skin lesions or raw irritated skin. Seek the advice of a physician if you are in doubt about when it is appropriate to apply a concealer.

By: Flori and Nancy Roberts

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Flori Roberts and Nancy Roberts of Smart Cover(R) Cosmetics. Flori was the original creator of Dermablend(R) and an authority in the field of Corrective cosmetics. To receive your 10 Free Concealing Tips, go to www.smartcover.com/products.html

How To Apply Concealer On Your Trouble Spots

There is much controversy as to when one should apply concealer. Based on my own experience, I prefer to apply concealer before my foundation. Conceal all the spots and then blend it in with my 2 way foundation with bronzer cosmetics.

 
The Body Shop Concealer Tips

We dropped by The Body Shop to check out what’s new and I ended up buying a Concealer Pencil. It’s not the first time that I’ve used the product, as I had one back in College. I find that it easily erases flaws like acne marks.

Tips for Learning How to Apply Makeup

If you decide to use facial makeup, or concealer, make sure to get a concealer shade that matches your face. If you're concealer is too dark or too pale, it will stand out. If you have nice skin, you can bypass concealer.

Conceal Red Spots on Your Face

Has this happened to you, and you don't know what to do? You've come to the right place. Read on to find out how to conceal that ugly red spot! One tip: get concealer 2 shades lighter than your skin color.

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