* Matrixyl© and Argireline© – Are They a Part of Your Anti Aging Skin Care?




Posted on August 1, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

We’ve all heard about the wonders of peptides Matrixyl© and Argireline©, but do they really work?

Let’s back up by taking a look at the skin itself.  Skin is composed mostly of collagen.  Collagen is a protein that provides firmness, support, and thickness to the skin.  As we age, collagen is destroyed.  With this destruction comes thin, wrinkled skin.

By replacing lost collagen, we can reverse some of the signs of aging.  Peptides have shown success in stimulating collagen production.  This is because peptides themselves are short chains of amino acids.  And amino acids are the very basis of proteins.

Peptides can penetrate the skin to the dermis layer, where collagen is produced.  In essence, the peptides “signal” the skin to produce more collagen.

But all peptides are not created equally!  And this is where Matrixyl © and Argireline© come in.  The active molecules in these peptides have the capacity to penetrate deeply into the skin where they do their work.

Active peptide molecules work in different ways. 

Matrixyl© is actually a trademark name for Palmitoyl Pentapeptide- 3  or Oligopeptide.  A new version, Matrixyl 3000©, adds Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide or Terapeptide.  These innovative ingredients have been shown to stimulate collagen production, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles by actually thickening the skin.  used regularly, expect to see results in 6 weeks.

Argireline© has been considered a topical alternative to Botox© because of its ability to relax certain facial muscles.  Like Matrixyl©, Argireline© is also a trademark name.  Argireline© is known chemically as Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 and Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1. 

By relaxing facial muscles, Argireline© has been shown to be particularly effective at minimizing wrinkles.

You can find quality anti aging skin care products that include one or both of these amazing peptides.  They are available from a variety of manufacturers, not only the manufacturers that have trademarked the chemical names.  Unless the product actually advertises that it contains Matrixyl and Argireline or both, check the ingredients for the scientific compound names.

And look as well for the presence of other peptides.  Both of these powerhouses are even more effective when combined with each other, or with other peptides.

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* Anti Aging Skin Care – Now is the Time to Prevent Wrinkles



Posted on July 21, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

Now is the time because it’s never too early – or too late – to follow an anti aging skin care routine.  With the proper practices in place, you really can slow down and even reverse the effects of aging skin.

1.  The Sun
Alas, the sun is your skin’s greatest enemy.  But you can minimize its effects with the proper care.  You’ve heard it hundreds of times before – use sunscreen.  Is that really so difficult when you consider the options!

True anti aging skincare must begin with a good sunscreen.  Look for a product that contains zinc oxide or titanium oxide, and protects against UVB and UVA rays.  In addition, make certain the product has at least a 15 SPF factor.

Confused?  Labels are changing!  By summer, 2012 or earlier, products will have to specify if they offer “broad spectrum” protection.  “Broad spectrum” means the product meets standards for protecting against both UVB and UVA rays.  UVB’s create sunburn, while UVA’s contribute to skin cancer and early skin aging.

2.  You are what you eat
Next to sun protection, your diet plays a major role in the health of your skin.  Yes there are such things as foods for beautiful skin, and they are essential to your anti aging skin care routine!
Diets rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, the B vitamins, and lean proteins are particularly powerful for skin beauty.  That means including plenty of green vegetables, fresh fruits, eggs, whole eggs, low or no-fat dairy products, fish, and lean meats.

3.  H2O
Lots of water!  At least 6 – 8 glasses a day.  And you know what … you’ll get used to it and you’ll love it!

Water provides natural moisture to the skin.  Too little water, and the body pulls from its natural reserves – which diminish as we age.  As the natural reserves are reduced, dehydration occurs, including dehydration of the skin.  Not a pretty picture.

4.  Last but not least … the perfect anti aging moisturizer!
We have tons of information here on choosing the best anti aging moisturizer for your skin.  As part of your anti aging skin care routine, we suggest you look for products that include:

Vitamin A retinol which is particularly effective for reducing fine line and helping to prevent wrinkles. 

Peptides  which can penetrate deeply into the skin, working to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Glycolic acid  which acts as an exfoliant, peeling away dead skin and revealing a much more youthful appearance.  Glycolic acid also stimulates natural moisturizers.

We’ve made it easy for you to discover your perfect skin care solutions.  Browse and enjoy …

Who says an anti aging skin care routine has to be a pain!

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* Dry Skin Care – Protect Your Skin All Year Long



Posted on July 8, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

While dry skin care advice is often reserved for cold winter months, dry, flaky, irritated skin is endured by many people year around.  Here are some suggestions for soothing and pampering your dry skin.

Dry skin needs attention year around.  Don’t let up on dry skin care simply because your dry skin feels moister during warm weather.  Pamper your skin all year.

Start with a non-irritating facial cleanser that is specifically formulated for dry skin.  The best products are those that contain a cream base.

Exfoliate your dry skin once or twice a week.  This prevents a buildup of the dry, dead skin cells that hinder your anti aging moisturizer.  For dry skin, exfoliate with non abrasive products.  Vitamin B has been shown to be a milder alternative to Retinoid (Vitamin A), which can dry the skin.  Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s) are very effective exfoliators for dry skin.

Protect against the sun.  Even in winter your skin needs protection from damaging UV rays.  Use a sunscreen separately, or look for anti aging moisturizers and foundations that do contain sun protection – at least 15 SPF.

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!  For dry skin care, look for creamier oil based moisturizers.  The higher the oil content, the more effective the moisturizer is to protect against further dryness.  Look for natural plant based oils.  Hyaluronic acid, which is found naturally in our skin, is extremely effective for dry skin care because of its ability to retain large quantities of water.

And don’t forget to moisturize from the inside out!  Drink plenty (as in lots!) of water daily.  You’ll notice a dramatic change in your skin once you get used to drinking water.  Before you know it, you’ll not only feel the difference, you’ll also really love water!  Honest!!

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* Your Skin Care Routine: Enjoy An Anti Aging Diet



Posted on July 6, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

Now is the time to add an anti aging diet to your skin care routine.  After all, it isn’t just about the wonderful anti aging moisturizers on the market today.  It’s also about being healthy from the inside out and enjoying younger looking skin to boot!

Best yet, these skin healthy powerhouses taste great, they’re also fat burner foods – and they won’t add those extra pounds!

Let’s begin with the basics.

Your anti aging diet skin care routine should include plenty of fruits and vegetables and other foods high in antioxidants, and foods high in fiber. 

Never underestimate the power of the antioxidants!  These naturally based nutrients protect you from the aging effect of free radicals.  The most common sources of free radicals are UV rays and environmental pollutants.  Antioxidants work by reducing the effects of free radicals, namely oxidation and inflammation, which are the two most common motivators of the aging process and work to alter the DNA of your cells.  In this sense, your skin cells are no different than other cells, and are actually particularly more susceptible to damage from the sun.

So, aside from a daily application of sun screen, your next best defense is a daily dose of antioxidants not only in your anti aging moisturizer, but also in your anti aging diet.

Berries rank right on the top of the antioxidant list.  Rich in the powerful antioxidant, anthocyanin, these little gems work from the inside to repair your skin cells.

Broccoli, cranberries, and apples are likewise high in antioxidants and also have strong anti inflammatory properties.

Beans also pack a high antioxidant punch – and they’re also high in fiber.

Fish, particularly salmon, is high in Omega 3′s.  These powerful antioxidants are not only extremely beneficial in long term health, their anti inflammatory qualities are also particularly beneficial for healthy, younger looking skin.

And don’t forget to drink plenty of water and 2-3 cups of green tea daily.  Water helps to keep the skin hydrated, and the green tea is extremely high in antioxidants, namely catechins.

Speaking of catechins, another good source is red wine, which also contains resveratrol.  Combined, these two powerful antioxidants serve as powerful anti agers. 

Now we’re not pushing gallons of red wine … but a nice glass, perhaps coupled with grilled vegetables and a balsamic glazed salmon filet might be just what the doctor ordered!

So who says your skin care routine has to be boring!  Enhance the power of your anti aging moisturizers with a delicious, fresh healthy diet.  And speaking of fresh, enjoy the benefits of your invigorated fresh skin … your younger looking skin.

Bon appétit!

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* Irritated Skin? Sensitive Skin? Try Vitamin B



Posted on June 27, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

Experts agree that anti aging moisturizers that contain vitamin B provide exceptional hydrating qualities, thus working to defend against irritated skin.  In addition while these and other ingredients can dry and irritate skin, vitamin B is much gentler and will not irritate sensitive skin as other products might. 

While the results might not be as immediately dramatic as with other products – in particular vitamin A – nonetheless vitamin B has been shown to effectively improve the skin’s appearance within 1 – 2 months and does not create the dryness and flaking that can result from other ingredients.

Of the various forms of vitamin B, the most common found in skin care products include niacin, or B3, and pantothenic acid, B5.  Another form of B3, niacinamide, is particularly effective as a moisturizer because it enhances the production of ceramides – fatty acids which encourage the ability of the skin to hold moisture.  Niacinamide is also instrumental in evening skin tones and reducing age spots.

Niacinamide has antioxidant qualities, meaning it works to reduce damage from the sun and other irritants.  Used in conjunction with sunscreen, it provides enhanced UV defense.  Because of its healing and protective qualities, it is recommended for sensitive skin or irritated skin.

One additional benefit – the vitamin B’s can be used safely with retinol and alpha hydroxy acids.

Vitamin B also provides a gentle alternative to traditional exfoliation ingredients such as glycolic or salicylic acid.  Because exfoliation is recommended to reduce fine lines and to relieve clogged pores, those with easily irritated skin, sensitive skin, or even dry skin can enjoy those benefits without fear of the negative side effects often associated with traditional exfoliators.

Look for one or more of the vitamin B’s in your anti aging moisturizer.  It is formulated into products for all skin types from those looking to control blemishes, to those who desire a richer alternative.  Look also for products that combine the vitamin B’s with the more traditional antioxidants such as vitamin C or green tea.

The vitamin B’s truly can soothe your sensitive skin or easily irritated skin.  Enjoy the benefits of revived, fresh skin.

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* Are There “Best” Antioxidants?



Posted on June 24, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

Studies and recommendations abound for the best antioxidants from antioxidant rich foods, antioxidant supplements, and even antioxidant based diets (think acai berry).  But what about anti aging skin care?  Can we enjoy the benefits of these free radical fighters without eating them?

Of course we can – not that eating them is so painful!  Succulent blueberries, fragrant teas, rich coffees, or juicy fruits are mouthwatering. 

Antioxidants are important to good health – and to good skin health because of their ability to inhibit free radicals.  Free radicals are unstable molecules which cause cells to break down.  By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants have shown to be effective in reversing sun damage, bolstering the immune system, and in helping to prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, just to name a few.

When we think antioxidants, we generally think of vitamins A, C, and E.  But like all antioxidants formulated into anti aging skin products, they are always more effective when them are blended in combination with one another.  Next time you are in the market for an anti aging moisturizer, an anti aging serum or an anti wrinkle eye cream, look for one or more of these super antioxidants!

Acai Berry
While it has been more often been associated with diet, Acai Berry is known for its remarkable moisturizing capability.  It is particularly effective in reducing wrinkles and smoothing the skin.  Its powerful antioxidant qualities also make it one of the best antioxidants for repairing sun damage.

It is blended into anti aging skin products by cold pressing the fruit berries and extracting the oil.

Ferulic acid
Is extracted from rice, barley, wheat, oat bran, apples, oranges, coffee, and other plants.  It is blended into anti aging skin care products because it is considered one of the best antioxidants for skin care and because of its ability to stabilize other antioxidants.  Ferulic acid is extremely effective for fighting skin cell damage, and for protecting skin from sunburn.  Its strong antioxidant qualities neutralize free radicals, protecting the skin from UV rays and pollutants.  Ferulic acid helps to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and skin discolorations, and improves skin elasticity.

Green Tea Extract
Is supremely effective in anti aging skin care.  Rich in protective flavanoids, catechins, and polyphenols, Green Tea Extract is particularly effective for moisturizing skin, and for reducing inflammation and irritation.  Studies have shown that Green Tea Extract protects from sun damage, and can be effective in helping to reduce the chances of skin cancer.  It is particularly useful when used in combination with a sunscreen.
CoffeeBerry 
Is believed to be the most potent antioxidant of them all.  Derived from the rich fruit of the coffee tree, studies suggest that CoffeeBerry is even more powerful than other super antioxidants blueberry and green tea.  It has been shown to be particularly suited for sensitive skin.  In addition to its healing qualities, studies have shown that CoffeeBerry is extremely effective for moisturizing the skin, smoothing and evening the skin, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
 
CoffeeBerry is available currently in only a few anti aging skin care products.  This is due in part to the sophisticated process required to capture the oil from the fruit.  Nonetheless, CoffeeBerry is remarkably effective and is clearly regarded as one of the best antioxidants.

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* How To Reduce Wrinkles In 3 Easy Steps



Posted on June 22, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

By following some simple rules, you really can reduce wrinkles.  In fact, if started at an early age, and by using the proper anti aging skin care products, you can actually delay and prevent wrinkles.

No matter what your age, these basic anti aging skin care rules can provide some pretty dramatic results!

1) Use a quality anti-aging moisturizer.  For maximum results, look for a moisturizer that contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s) such as such as glycolic or lactic acid.  AHA’s are natural acids derived from plants (grapes, citrus, apples) and sugars (sugar cane, milk).  They work by removing dead layers from the skin, also known as exfoliation – one of the best known methods to reduce wrinkles.  The process increases cell turnover, clears clogged pores, evens discoloration, and smoothes the skin. 

2) Harness the power of the powerful antioxidant, vitamin A.  Also known by its over the counter name, Retinol, vitamin A is a highly effective anti aging product recognized for its ability to reduce wrinkles.  A retinol works by stimulating collagen production which improves skin structure.  The result is softer, smoother skin.  Vitamin A works to visibly reduce wrinkles within 12 weeks of use.  Retinol has been successfully formulated into some anti aging moisturizers.  This blend is particularly beneficial because vitamin A can be drying.  Of note, retinol should be used only a night as it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and damaging UV rays.

3) Use sunscreen – every day!  Quality anti aging moisturizers often formulate sunscreen into their products.  Use a cream with at least SPF 15, preferably SPF 30, that contains zinc oxide.  New regulations will require sunscreens to indicate whether or not they offer “broad spectrum” protection.  This level of protection offers defense against both UVA and UVB rays, and works to prevent sunburn as well as the risk of skin cancer and skin aging.

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* Repairing Your Skin With A Retinoid



Posted on June 17, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

Sun.  It’s the greatest threat to our skin.  Even with the most careful skin care regimen, it’s tough to escape damaging UV rays.  And while that routine must contain a sunscreen of at least 15 SPF, and a healthy daily application of antioxidants, our skin still needs time to heal, to repair, and to regenerate.

And that’s where a good retinoid comes in!

Retinoids derive from vitamin A which is a powerful antioxidant.  They have been clinically proven to prevent sun damage, and to renew skin.  While doctors advise that the prescription versions (most notably Retin-A) provide the most superior results, even the over the counter varieties, otherwise known as Retinol, have shown to be very effective. 

Retinoids work because they are easily absorbed into the deep layers of the skin where they stimulate collagen production, speed cell turnover, and improve the structure of the skin.  The result is smoother skin, clearer skin, a more even skin tone, and a noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Retinoids are sensitive to sunlight.  For this reason, they should always be used at night.  Round out your daily skin care routine during the day with an anti aging moisturizer that blocks both UVA and UVB rays, and that offers at least 15 SPF protection.

A retinoid, whether prescription level or an over the counter Retinol, will dry the skin to some extent.  For this reason, hydration becomes increasingly important.  Retinoids can be used in companionship with your anti aging moisturizer, or can be contained in a moisturizing cream.  The choice is largely personal, depending on skin type.

For those with oily skin, this can be beneficial, especially when combined with the retinoid’s exfoliation properties and hence its ability to unclog pores.  For dry skin, or very sensitive skin, or for those who otherwise cannot tolerate the prescription dosage, the over the counter Retinols are regarded as a very satisfactory alternative.

Retinoids are available in a variety of different forms.  For normal to dry skin, a cream is preferred for its additional moisturizing qualities.  For normal to oily skin, a lighter lotion is advised.  A serum is the lightest form, and is a good choice for oily skin.  And by all means – because retinoids are light sensitive – look for a product that is packaged in opaque tubes or pumps.

Because retinoids can cause dryness and flaking, at least in the beginning avoid exfoliation or scrubbing products, medicated makeup or cleansers, or alcohol based products.  And, regardless of the form, always use with your anti aging moisturizer.  Follow package or prescription directions, but ordinarily the retinoid is applied prior to the moisturizer. 

Depending on your skin type, and on the product used, experts recommend applying a retinoid no more than every third day, at least for the initial two weeks.

Dryness and minor irritation can prove disruptive to some, causing them to give up on all retinoids.  However, when used properly their benefits of these amazing antioxidants greatly outweigh the often temporary side effects.

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* Argireline® – Does it Really Work Like Botox®?



Posted on June 14, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

Argireline® is a peptide derived from natural proteins.  Its chemical name is Acetyl hexapeptide-3.  Argireline® has been touted as the best needle-free alternative to Botox®.

Botox®, known chemically as botulinum toxin, is a purified substance derived from a bacteria.  It is administered by a doctor directly into the muscles, particularly around the eyes and on the forehead.  It works by relaxing the muscles, and in turn, the lines and wrinkles induced by those muscles.  In most cases, Botox® treatments last 3-4 months

In effect, Argireline® mimics the effects of Botox®.  However, unlike Botox®, Argireline®, is administered topically on the skin and is never injected.

So the question is, how well does Argireline® “mimic” Botox®?

In essence, they work similarly.  Like Botox®, Argireline® also works to relax the muscles that cause facial lines and wrinkles.  And there is evidence to support this.

There have been several noted studies involving Argireline® (Acetyl hexapeptide-3).  In a 2002 study published by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, results showed that a cream containing 10% Acetyl hexapeptide-3 resulted in a 30% reduction of wrinkles over a 30 day period.

In a separate study in 2003 performed by Center Chem, a 10% solution of Argireline® revealed a 17% reduction in wrinkles around the eyes after 15 days of use, and a 27% reduction after 30 days.

So if the research is there to support Argireline®, why is there a difference between invasive Botox® injections and the topical creams?

Simply put, based on the studies performed, there is no doubt that Argireline® is effective in diminishing the wrinkles around the eyes.  But when compared to the overall effectiveness of Botox®, Argireline® cannot match up.  Because Botox® is actually administered into the muscle, it actually paralyzes the muscle.  Argireline®, on the other hand, cannot reach this deeply into the muscle, so the results are less dramatic.

Having said that, there are many of us who far prefer the more modest yet still effective results of Argireline® to the discomfort and expense of Botox®. 

Speaking of expense, Argireline® is included in numerous affordable gels, serums and anti aging moisturizers. 

The bottom line … while Argireline® may not be as supremely effective as Botox®, it may well be the very best needle-free alternative!

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*Anti Aging Moisturizers



Posted on June 14, 2011 by Kelly Bowman

You’ve arrived!

The age of sophisticated, scientifically formulated, truly anti aging moisturizers is here!

Rich in healing peptides and antioxidants, and loaded with lush natural oils and botanicals, today’s anti aging moisturizers deliver a fresh, dewy look, diminishing fine lines and wrinkles, and leaving the skin smooth and refreshed.

Gone are the greasy pore-clogging creams.  Today’s anti aging moisturizers provide unsurpassed anti aging qualities for all skin types, from oily to dry, sensitive to normal.

You too can enjoy the benefits of today’s anti aging moisturizers. 

Discover how these cutting edge formulas will work for you!  It’s as simple as “how” and “what”!

How an anti aging moisturizer works to dramatically refresh your skin, and precisely what ingredients you need in your moisturizer to nourish, protect, and regenerate your look.

Let’s begin with the how. 

Anti aging moisturizers, like the traditional moisturizers before them, hydrate the skin with two basic ingredients, humectants and emollients. 

Humectants actually attract water to the skin by absorbing and retaining moisture.  In fact, humectants actually pull water out of the air, attracting it to the skin.  The key is, humectants must be oil based, or must have properties that simulate oil.  And this is where oil free moisturizers achieve their name.  While they’re not actually “oil free”, they work to retain that vital moisture without clogging pores.

Emollients increase the moisture levels by sealing the skin and making it feel softer and smoother.  Today’s anti aging moisturizers feature natural organic oils which are very similar to the skin’s natural moisturizing agent, sebum.  Because they are so closely aligned with the skin’s natural structure these organics do not clog pores or cause breakouts.

You’re about to discover the exact formulas that your skin needs to combine the hydrating power of anti aging moisturizers with the specific needs of your skin.

Now let’s go to the what.

Modern anti aging moisturizers offer much more than just basic hydration!  Thanks to cutting edge formulations, today’s moisturizers work to protect your skin, to lift your skin, to minimize skin discolorations, and to diminish fine lines and wrinkles.

Now you have the opportunity to learn the basics, to understand exactly what ingredients your skin needs so that you can look your very best.  From dry skin, to oily skin, to sensitive skin, and in between, we’ve got just what you need to make all the right choices.

If you want complicated scientific dissertations, go to another website.  You don’t need to know about molecular structures … you just need to know what will work for your skin!

If you want to cut to the chase – to identify and match the key ingredients that are perfectly suited to your skin needs – you’ve come to the right place.  From antioxidants to peptides, it’s all about you!

Discover today what can make you even more beautiful tomorrow – and forever!

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