It is a new year and there is no better time to de-clutter and get rid of the old and bring in the new especially when it comes to your makeup.  Makeup and toiletries can be very expensive so it is understandable that it can be hard to part with. However they do go bad, and most companies are not required to post expiration dates, therefore you must be diligent in ensuring that your collection is safe to use.   As soon as you open your products the bacteria begins to grow.  Here is a guideline of timelines for certain products but remember you have to use your own judgment.  If you have had a product for over two to three years and you don’t use it, get rid of it; if the colour or odour has changed get rid of it; if it does not perform the way it used to, get rid of it.

Also if you want your products to last longer make sure to store them in a cool, dry place, always use brushes, sponges and applicators, and try to buy pumps instead of jars to avoid contamination, and when you can’t try to use disposable spatulas to use the products.

Also make sure if you are sick or have an eye infection that you do not use your makeup!  If you use any products especially ones that come in contact with your eye while you have an infection you must discard of the product, never re-use it afterwards.

Makeup

Mascara – three to six months

This is a huge breeding ground for bacteria.  Be cognizant of this one because it comes in contact with the most sensitive part of your face, the eyes. So don’t risk it, replace this every three to six months!  If you want it to last longer try to avoid over pumping of the mascara wand as this exposes the product to the air, which will make it dry out much faster.

The wands are especially risky as they hold mascara deep within the bristles. Wipe the wand down with a cosmetic sanitizer wipe after each use to prevent contamination.

Liquid Eyeliner – up to six months

Liquid eyeliner is similar to mascara, it comes in direct contact with your eye so if you notice an odour change or change in consistency discard of the product.

Concealer – 12-18 months

Cream Blushes – 12-18 months

Powders – up to 3 years

Powder Blushes, Bronzers, Face Powders and Eyeshadows last the longest because for the most part they are not exposed to any moisture.  With proper care and storage these can last you up to three years but be sure to use your judgment, if you notice a white chalky texture or cracking then you need to discard of the product.

Loose powders can last for many years but make sure that it is stored away from light and heat and if you notice that moisture has got into the product discard of it.

To keep pressed powders sanitized you can use a misting spray from Beauty So Clean that removes bacteria and germs.  This can be used on all powder-based products such as eyeshaow, blush, bronzers and cream-based products such as foundation, concealers and cream blush.

Pencils – up to 3 years

Eyeliners and lip liners can last up to three years.  Make sure that you sharpen prior to each use and keep them sharpened regularly.  Keep their caps on!

Brushes & Sponges

It is extremely important to keep all of your makeup applicators clean at all times.  It will help to extend the life cycle of your makeup and will keep it more hygienic for you.  I spray a napkin with alcohol and I wipe my brushes across it until clean in between colours and upon completion of my makeup.  Sponges should be washed weekly and discarded on a monthly basis.  Every two to three months you should clean them thoroughly with a mild detergent such as a shampoo or a brush cleanser. You can get a good one at MAC or Shoppers Drug Mart.  For quick brush cleaning I like Lise Watier and BeautySoClean brush cleansers.  The BeautySoClean product is chemical free and is formulated with natural ingredients; it gently cleans and conditions your makeup brushes.

Foundation – 12 – 18 months

Water-based and cream foundations can last up to 12 months while oil-based foundations can last up to 18 months.

Lipsticks & Glosses

Lipstick can last anywhere from two to four years but you must watch the smell of the product.  When lipstick goes bad it will have a rancid smell so you will know when to toss it.  If you want it to last longer some experts say to keep them refrigerated.

Lip gloss can last anywhere from 18-24 months

When you re-apply lipstick or gloss, bacteria can get into your lip product and contaminate it.  Wand applicators can be especially risky.  Use a cosmetic sanitizer wipe to wipe off your lip-gloss wand or tube after each application to remove bacteria and germs.

Nailpolish – up to two years

Nail polish is tricky – I have definitely had polish for over two years however this is a circumstance where you want to use your good judgment.  Storing polish in the refrigerator is supposed to extend the life of the product.  Watch out for separation of the pigment and oils.  If you give it a good shake and it doesn’t mix then it is time to get rid of it.  Note the smell of the product as well.  If it gets hard or thick it doesn’t necessarily mean it is bad, sometimes you just need to use a thinning product to bring life back to that perfect nail colour.

Perfume – up to 10 years

Perfumes from department stores are in bottles that have been made to protect the product from the air.  The scents can last up to 10 years but you must store your perfume in a cool dry place, possibly keep it in the original box and put it in a linen closet.  The bathroom is one of the worst storage spots for any cosmetics because of the heat and moisture.  Also keep away from windows as the light can effect it as well.  Watch for a change in color and smell, a vinegary smell will alert you and you should toss the product.

Skincare

Moisturizer – 6-12 months

Moisturizer can last up to 6-12 months with proper care for the product, make sure to use clean hands or a clean disposable spatula to take the product and keep lids tight.  If you notice a strange odor gets rid of it.

Toner, Exfoliants, Eye creams – 6-12 months

Cream & Gel Cleansers – up to 1 year

Until next time stay fabulous!

Samantha Fayman

We’ve gathered a few items that we think would be great gift ideas, whether they are stocking stuffers or a little extra something to round off her idea of the perfect present.

Bio-Oil –The great beauty multi-tasker conditions  hair, skin and nails.

• Lip balm
• Moisturize and condition nails and cuticles
• All over daily skin moisturizer
• Control split ends and relieve dry scalp
• Revitalize dehydrated or flaky skin and nourish rough heels or cracked elbows

$12.99 (60 ml), $21.99 (125 ml), $29.99 (200ml)

Quo by Orly Nail Polish

Colours from left to right

• Night Sky
• Old Hollywood
• Just Married
• Very Vixen

$10

Délice des Fleurs Shower Jelly

This limited edition by L’Occitane En Provence covers the body with the fragrance of rose and violet leaves.

$22 (250 ml)

By: Lisa Moore of PlasticSurgeryGuide.com

The most popular procedure that can improve the shape of a breast is what we call breast augmentation or augmentation mammaplasty. So, why do women consider this type of cosmetic enhancement?

General reasons for this type of plastic surgery include:

AGING

Aging produces a gradual loss of breast tissue that can result in sagging and less firm breasts.

CHILDBIRTH/BREASTFEEDING

Childbirth and breastfeeding may result in loss of breast tissue, sagging breasts, changes in breast shape or asymmetrical breasts.

BREAST SHAPE/CONGENITAL DEFECTS

Some women are unhappy with the natural shape of their breasts. Others have lost a significant amount of weight and are not happy with the new size and shape.

MASTECTOMY, DISEASE/TRAUMATIC EVENTS

A mastectomy or other medical reason for removal or alteration of the breasts causes some women to choose breast augmentation in order to restore their appearance.

SMALL BREASTS/COSMETIC REASONS

Breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Some women want an increase in size purely for cosmetic reasons, including an increase in self-esteem.

Breast augmentation is an aesthetic enhancement procedure that involves the use of implants, which add volume to breasts. Today, there are two types of breast implants that are widely used.

SALINE IMPLANTS

The shell is made from a solid silicone rubber but the filler material is saline or sterile salt water. It only requires a small point to insert this kind of implant into the women’s breasts because the saline will be filled during the surgery. Saline implants would usually give an uncomfortable feeling to the patient but with the improved techniques, these effects have lessened. Compared to silicone, saline implants are considered to be safe as it is composed of salt-water solution that is the same as human body fluid.

SILICONE IMPLANTS

The outer shell is also made from a solid silicone rubber pre-filled with cohesive silicone gel. Unlike saline implants, silicone implants give a more natural and comfortable feeling – as a natural breast. Women want this type of implant because it is less likely to ripple compared to a saline implant. Women tend to avoid additional expenses for a breast implant revision caused by rippled implants. But, if silicone implants are ruptured, it is not easily noticeable. The FDA approved the use of silicone gel implants by 2006 for breast augmentation surgeries.

Before considering this type of surgery, it is important to get as much breast augmentation information as possible. A doctor usually proves to be the most reliable and credible source of information in terms of validating reasons for and against such surgery. A reliable plastic surgery guide is a combination of facts, statistics and an overall evaluation of why breast implants are being considered in the first place.

According to a 2006 study, the average breast augmentation patient tends to be a younger woman under the age of 30. While, a 2003 study suggests that the majority of women who choose to undergo this type of plastic surgery are likely to have low self-esteem, higher rates of depression, higher rates of attempted suicide and mental illness. These rates were lower in the first 10 years following surgery, increasing from the 11 – 19 year mark following initial surgery. Another study found such rates increased following complications that required re-operation. Rates were lowest among women choosing breast augmentation for corrective reasons.

A Danish study found that eight per cent of women had a history of psychiatric hospitalization prior to breast augmentation surgery. This has lead to the practice of a psychological examination prior to breast enhancement surgery in most countries where this type of surgery was performed. The same study found an increase in self-esteem of nearly five per cent among women surveyed following surgery.

In North America, more than 50 per cent of women choosing cosmetic surgery have an annual income under $25,000.  On the other hand, a Swedish study found 76 per cent of women reporting initial satisfaction with breast augmentation surgery. However, a similar study in England found that percentage to be much lower. Common complaints of breast augmentation surgery include:

-Dissatisfaction with new size/shape
- Longer recovery time than anticipated
- Sustained pain and discomfort
- Complications requiring corrective/additional surgery

It is always better to do research before undergoing any procedure. All procedures are associated with risks and complications.

Valerie Hauch, Staff  Reporter, Toronto Star

Basma Hameed, right, is running her own cosmetic tattooing business out of mentor Dorothy Kizoff’s Yorkville clinic in the evenings and on weekends.

At the end of the day, Cristina Alexa would sometimes have one eyebrow trailing down her face.

“It was embarrassing,” says Alexa, 42, who has lost all her hair, eyebrows and eyelashes to a rare condition called alopecia universalis (see sidebar). She started losing her hair in March of 2010 and by fall, every hair on her body was gone. She would draw her eyebrows on in the morning, but never knew when one might smear accidentally. Read more

By Leticia Rodriguez

Spring is in the air and it’s time to beautify.

The sun’s shining, but our hair is in need of a makeover, our feet could use a little spruce-me-up and our teeth…less than fantastic.

But, of course there’s the cost of upgrading our winter look to something hot and fresh. Some of us can’t afford a change and others of us can but just don’t see a point in putting down the big bucks.

Instead of making an appointment at your local salon, spa or dentist, why not make an appointment at your local community college?

Three of Toronto’s popular colleges: Centennial, Seneca and George Brown offer health and beauty services that most of us wouldn’t even think of.  You can get your nails done, get a facial, have your teeth whitened or even get a complete set of dentures.

Many college health programs sometimes offer temporary clinics to the public – like massage therapy- but they can be tricky to get information on if you don’t’ know who to contact. Calling the school directory for information can be useful.

For other services in the GTA:  Centennial College also has a public massage therapy clinic, George Brown offers health and hearing assessments, sometimes free of charge and Seneca has a public vision clinic.

In many cases you can expect to pay up to 50 per cent less for your beauty or dental treatment at a community college. Of course, prices depend on what you’re having done.

Centennial offers a manicure and a pedicure combo for $25, which can usually be about $40-65 at your local salon, while something like a simple teeth cleaning at George Brown can be as cheap as $20, which if you don’t have health insurance can be upwards of $100.

There are some catches though; the most important being that you will be treated by a student.  The students will be educated and absolutely know what they’re doing but they most likely have no outside professional experience.

Dale Peers, a professor for Seneca College’s aestheticians program says that performing beauty services can be difficult and that’s why the students are properly trained before taking on clients. “Most folks think, ‘how hard is it to paint nails?’ Well, it’s actually very difficult to perform a complete manicure with massage within in 35 minutes,” she says.  “They [students] certainly learn that in the class but they have to perfect that technique and they must follow all of the proper steps.”

Students also have to pass courses in areas like hand and foot anatomy/physiology before they’re able to work in Seneca’s Evolutions spa.

Having a student perform your desired beauty service is not only good for your wallet but you’re also helping to develop the skills of a future professional.

Peers says it’s important for students to work with the public so they can start to master their craft and learn how to interact with clients. “One of the ways that they [students] are successful is not just in performing a service but in knowing how to book the next service,” she says.  “Knowing how to have a conversation, an adult conversation with a client [is important] because it’s not just about the service there’s also that personal connection.”

Students are supervised by their professors while working in the clinic, this goes for all colleges.

The other catch is that some colleges don’t offer all services year round and the hours of operation can be sporadic depending on semesters, class sizes and students availability.

When it comes to the beauty salons, Peers says that clients are encouraged to expect and receive the same treatment as a full service local salon.

If there’s a particular student that you like, feel free to request their services on your next visit, if you’re not happy with the service, feel free to express your concerns so they can be rectified.

For the chance to save a couple bucks, you could always try it out and see if this is something you could get used to.

For more information on  community college health and beauty services visit the following sites:

Evolutions Spa- Seneca College-  http://www.senecac.on.ca/community/estheticclinic.html

Censations Spa- Centennial College- http://www.centennialcollege.ca/censationesthetics

Interprofessional Learning Clinic- George Brown  http://www.georgebrown.ca/clinic/

How to get smokin’ eyes at home

Make-up by Samantha Fayman, hair by Jessica Barbosa, photography by Levon Pompa Photography

The look that is emerging for spring 2011 is sapphire eyes.  I have to say that I am personally in love with this trend.  The colour palette really lends itself to all skin tones, eye colours and hair colours.

I recently worked on a photo shoot where I did this look on a model who has brown eyes and short reddish brown hair and the look was divine.  My approach to this look is to have navy and purple hues combined to give it an intense blue with purple undertones.  Check out this easy way to get a wearable sapphire eye.

Step 1 – Apply your face makeup i.e.: moisturizer, primer, foundation, concealer and powder

Step 2 – Apply an eye primer, in this case I used Bobbi Brown’s long-wear cream shadow in bone which is a very neutral skin toned colour.  I applied this product with a flat brush, and I placed it just from the lash line to just below the crease.

Step 3 – Using eyeliner in a purple shade make a line from the inside corner of the lash line to the outer edge going thicker towards the outer corner.

This does not need to be a perfect line at all since you will be smudging it out.   Make this line much thicker than normal.

Choose a liner that has a creamier consistency, like Revlon Luxurious Kohl, in very violet, MAC Powerpoint in Permaplum or Stila Kajal in Amethyst.

It will be easier to blend and smudge out.

Step 4 – Once you have laid that on take a brush and blend it out so that it softens the edges but make sure to keep the darkest pigment closer to the lash line so it gets lighter as it goes towards your crease.

Step 5 – Now you will take that same brush and apply eyeshadow over top keeping most of the pigment in the outer corner and near the lash line.  For this step you want the eyeshadow to be the same or similar shade to the eyeliner so I chose a blue eyeshadow that had a purple undertone.  The perfect colour is MAC Contrast.

Step 6 – Apply a highlight to the brow bone and inside corner of the eye.  Since the look is pretty dramatic I didn’t want anything stark but also didn’t want anything with shimmer so I used MAC Mylar.

Step 7 – Apply black eyeliner –like Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner in black.  This is a 24 hour wear product and it truly is. I applied this to the upper lash line only.

Step 8 – Using the same liner you used in Step 3 apply to the lower lash line going into the water lines (upper and lower) and then use a smudger brush to smudge out the line on the lower lash line.

Step 9 – Apply black mascara

Step 10 – Apply your bronzer and blush

Step 11- Lastly you want to put some colour on your lips but because you have done a very dramatic eye you should use something soft so that it will give balance.  With this colour palette I really love a peach tone so my recommendation is MAC Love Nector.

And voila, that is all.  This look will make the eyes pop!

Enjoy and until next time stay fabulous!

Samantha Fayman

How to Get This Season’s Hairstyle

The bun, chignons and braids have truly made a comeback and are once again the solid trend of the season with several designers showcasing the look across their runways at all the major fashion week events.

There are several styles that have emerged: the low bun which was demonstrated on the catwalk of Nina Ricci, Cynthia Rowley showed the side bun and the likes of Marchesa and Oscar De La Renta displayed my personal favorite, the high bun. This style compels me because it is reminiscent of the iconic Audrey Hepburn in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

It is sleek and glamorous.

After all this visual euphoria, I felt inspired to create these looks for myself however I faced a major challenge: I don’t know how to do my own hair.

After using several bobby pins and trying different ways to secure my hair in place I was feeling rather defeated when I saw a television commercial for the Goody Spin Pin which in essence looks like a bobby pin screw and claims to do the work of 20 bobby pins.

So my attention was captured to say the least and I had to put this baby to the test and to my surprise they really do work.

I should really preface this by saying what my hair is like, it is very long, very thick and I have a lot of it. So of course I was skeptical but although the instructions on the box call for two pins for the desired look, just one actually holds up all of my hair for the entire day.

This product is absolutely worth the $7 investment at your local drug store.

So now that we have the method to secure your locks, let’s get to how to create these hot off the runway looks.

The High Bun

Step 1 – Gather all of your hair at the top of your head, almost like you are doing an 80’s ponytail

Step 2 – Comb all of the hair into this ponytail ensuring that it is pulled tight and sleek

Step 3- Once you have your ponytail perfected twist into a bun

Step 4 – Use both Spin Pins that come in your package by screwing one in from the top and one in from the bottom

The Side Bun

Step 1 – Start with an exaggerated side part and then gather your hair to the opposite side of the part

Step 2 – Make a side ponytail at the nape of the neck and then twist into a bun

Step 3 – Use both Spin Pins that come in your package by screwing one in from the top and one in from the bottom

The Low Bun

Step 1 – Start with a centre part. Then pull your hair into a low ponytail making sure to cover the ears.

Step 2 – Twist the ponytail into a loose knot. Keeping it loose will give it a more bohemian flair.

Step 3 – Use both Spin Pins that come in your package by screwing one in from the top and one in from the bottom

There you have it, a super easy way to get the hottest look of the season, until next time stay fabulous!

Samantha Fayman

The Grades Are In: A Look at  Dry Shampoos  That Work

One of the hottest new products around these days is dry shampoos/hair refreshers.  With everyone’s lives getting busier and busier this revelation makes you warm and fuzzy inside.

The idea that you can update your hair or skip that wash and blow dry for a day is so utterly appealing that it’s no wonder why these products are flying off the shelves.

Washing your hair daily or even every other day isn’t necessarily good for your hair.  You want to keep the natural oils in the hair and down the hair follicle to fortify and protect your hair.  Many women say they can’t go longer than a day or two because their hair gets oily.

Once upon a time when one was having a bad hair day or didn’t have the time to wash and style one’s hair, people used to use baby powder on their scalp to absorb grease and oil and renew their hair.

Although this method did work from time to time it wasn’t ideal and it got messy.

Someone has answered our prayers by developing dry shampoos which have a similar concept in mind but they also add volume and fragrance to the hair giving a brand new refreshed look.

While they sound great in theory, the question that remains is:  Do they work and if so, do you need to spend a small fortune to get the right one?

Well, I’m taking the guessing game out of the equation for you.  I’ve spent countless hours trying many of these products and the grades are in.

OSCAR BLANDI  PRONTO

Refreshes, revives and rejuvenates hair without water.  Rice, oat, tapioca starches that cleanse the hair and absorb excess oil from the hair.  It helps to create volume with a lovely lemon verbena fragrance.  It was voted Best Dry Shampoo and Best Quick Fix by Allure magazine.

DAYS WITHOUT WASHING

5

PRICE

$19

EXPERIENCE

Being the most expensive product that I tried I didn’t want to like it.  I tried this product in the summer when it was super hot and humid and it was hands down the best. This is a product I cannot live without.

THE GRADE

A++

BATISTE

This is a hairspray that gets rid of oily roots giving your hair a makeover without water.  Leaves the texture full

DAYS WITHOUT WASHING

5

PRICE

$7

EXPERIENCE

This product is wonderful. It is a fabulous price and sold at Shoppers Drug Mart.  Great to keep in your purse and very easy to use. You just simply spray, massage roots and comb out.

THE GRADE

A

GOSH FRESH UP POWDER SHAMPOO

This is a hair spray that will revitalize greasy, dull and lifeless hair in-between washes.  Absorbs all excess oil, product build-up and impurities, leaving hair soft, clean and refreshed down to the roots.  Provides great re-styling ability, giving hair hold and extra volume.

DAYS WITHOUT WASHING

4

PRICE

$10

EXPERIENCE

I really like this product when you’ve only gone a few days without a wash. If you go past that or try to reapply this product I see some flakes and a white haze on my hair so this isn’t ideal for anyone that is overly greasy. After a day or two it’s great and has a nice scent.

THE GRADE

B

LACOUPE ORGNX REFRESH INSTANT HAIR REVIVER

Instant hair reviver without the wash. Brown rice protein helps control frizz, reduces flyways and absorbs oils and odours.  It has Moringa oil that helps promote glossy manageable hair.  Vitamins A, E, and Provitamin B5 and a UV filter help protect your hair from free radicals and environmental damage.

DAYS WITHOUT WASHING

3

PRICE

$11

EXPERIENCE

The scent of this product is intoxicating. My challenge with this product is that it’s a liquid spray and you do need to blow dry your hair afterwards.

THE GRADE

B

UMBERTO BEVERLY HILLS DRY CLEAN DRY SHAMPOO

Umberto Beverly Hills’s coyly named Dry Clean is a hair spray that helps to absorb and lift grease from your scalp and roots to quickly enhance volume and shine.

DAYS WITHOUT WASHING

4

PRICE

$9

EXPERIENCE

This was a great product but it isn’t as easy to find, if you travel across the border often then you can find it in Target.

THE GRADE

B+

TRESemme FRESH START DRY SHAMPOO

Have that just-washed look and feel without a shower. It will make your hair feel ultra clean and refreshed.  Zaps oil and odour in between washes.  The formula is made with mineral clay that soaks up excess oil and impurities to leave hair looking refreshed.

DAYS WITHOUT WASHING

3

PRICE

$7

EXPERIENCE

The fragrance of this product is great, and the price is even better. However I didn’t notice a significant improvement in my hair. Again, this would be a great refresher for after a night out or if you smell like smoke but not ideal for absorbing oil in the hair

THE GRADE

B

So there you have it.  Most of them work the same way:  You spray the roots, massage your head with your finger tips and then comb or brush out using a natural bristle brush.

However some do work better than others depending on what your objective is. Either way there is a product out there for everyone and every girl needs to keep one of these babies with her at all times!    I have been able to go as long as seven days using some of these products and was still getting compliments on my hair.

Grab a bottle and keep it in your purse, you won’t be sorry!

Until next time, stay fabulous!

Samantha Fayman

Is Enhancing Your Beauty Through a Cosmetic Procedure Right For You?

By Leticia Rodriguez

When it comes to a woman’s physical appearance, there are many things she can do to try and fix the body parts that bother her.  While cosmetic surgery is a possibility, it is also considered an extreme option. To undo what’s done with a surgical knife one would have to undergo the knife again. It’s costly, time consuming and quite dangerous.

However, there are less threatening options, even ones that are temporary. The less invasive procedures give patients more control over the results and the temporary results means nothing has to last forever.

Currently, there are two options for cosmetic “adjusting” that do not result in unreasonable downtime or permanent changes: Botox and Cosmetic Acupuncture.

As with any procedure, cosmetic or otherwise, you should always do your research.

BOTOX

Botox is made from a protein taken from Botulinum toxin, in large doses, this protein can cause botulism, a rare food poisoning that can cause paralysis; the chances of a patient becoming sick from this while undergoing a Botox injection are extremely rare.

The most popular use for Botox is to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and lines on the face and neck.

Finding a Good Doctor:

Dermatologist, Dr. Nowell Solish has been working with Botox for 16 years. Having worked very closely with the creators of Botox, Dr. Solish is considered the first doctor to use Botox in Canada.

He suggests that research is the number one key to finding an experienced doctor.

“You have to be careful, there are a lot of people who advertise and say they do a lot,” he says.  “They may not be specialists in it, so check out their credentials, and see what they’ve done before and how many they’ve done.”

Solish warns against choosing doctors whose expertise lie in other areas of medicines.  If a doctor practices something other than Botox and skin-related issues, his experience may not be up to par with that of a dermatologist or Botox expert. This can lead to negative side effects.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Determining whether or not you and your body can handle Botox injections is important, and again a good doctor knows what to look for.

“It takes experience looking at the patient, and seeing what their problems are and what bothers them,” Solish says.

He says that a doctor has to determine if the problem is based on things like muscle movement or aging.

According to Dr. Solish, age is not always a determining factor in candidacy. It depends more on your skin condition and what you would like done.

The Price of Botox:

The cost of Botox varies depending on what and how much you have done.

You can do something simple like reduce the appearance of crow’s feet or frown lines for an average price of $300-$400. If you’d like to have multiple problem areas targeted the average for this would be $700-$800

Because Botox is temporary, the effects are not long lasting and the appearance will only be achieved with continuous treatment.

After 4 or 5 months have passed since the injection, patients are free to visit their doctor for another injection, if they want to maintain their look.

Continuous maintenance can be costly.

How it’s done:

After your doctor determines if you’re a good candidate, it’s time to book an appointment for treatment.

Typically, the procedure is quite simple and doesn’t last more than half an hour most times. He will inject the Botox into the area(s) that you’ve previously discussed and at the end of the appointment you’re free to go.

You can expect some redness and swelling for half an hour after the injection.  Initially, you’ll look the same as you did before but as the days go by you will start to notice improvements in your appearance.  The transformation will be complete 7 to 10 days after that.

After 3 to 4 months, your appearance will start to go back to its original look.

The Benefits of Botox:

The obvious benefit of Botox is a younger looking appearance.  The results are also temporary, so if you’re only looking for a quick fix for a special event or you just want to see how you could look if you change your appearance, it is a viable option.

The Risks of Botox:

According to Dr. Solish the risks of Botox really depend on where you are having it put in.

The general risks of cosmetic Botox are:

·               Bruising and or soreness where the needle is inserted for a few days or week

·               Headaches or nausea for a few hours or days

·               Looking frozen or over-done

·               Droopy eye lids (worst case scenario)

In extremely rare cases there is a chance that patients develop flu-like symptoms.

To minimize the chances of any negative side effects, choosing a doctor that knows what they’re doing is key.

“If you have a lot of experience with using the drug you would not have much of a concern of putting it in the wrong muscle or putting the wrong dose in,” Dr. Solish says “It’s very uncommon that we [experienced doctors] have issues or side effects with Botox.”

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture is a healthier way to minimize the signs of aging.  Using the same techniques as traditional acupuncture, this process involves accessing certain points on your face to stimulate circulation and stimulate collagen production so your wrinkles fill and smooth out.

This type of acupuncture is also good for most skin problems, complexion concerns, acne, sagging skin, lines and wrinkles can all be improved with cosmetic acupuncture.

Finding a Good Doctor:

Chinese medicine practitioner, Shali Rassouli has been practicing cosmetic acupuncture for over 10 years.  When it comes to finding a suitable clinic,  Dr. Rassouli recommends going with somebody who has extensive training in natural medicines.

“I would suggest that they go to see somebody who is a Chinese medicine practitioner or an acupuncturist or a naturopathic doctor and that they had most of their training in acupuncture,” Rassouli says.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Dr. Rassouli prefers to treat patients who have early signs of aging. Most of her patients receiving cosmetic acupuncture are between 30 and 50 years old.

Anyone younger or older can expect to see very minimal if any changes at all.  A consultation with your doctor will involve looking at the areas you have problems with and determine if your aging signs are in the early stages.

“The lighter the lines and wrinkles are the faster they go away, the more they respond,” Dr. Rassouli says. “But if you’re over 60 than obviously it’s going to help but it’s not going to be as effective…”

The Price of Cosmetic Acupuncture:

The average price of cosmetic acupuncture is about $100-150 per session.  At Dr. Rassouli’s Cosmetic Acupuncture Clinic of Toronto, she does 10 to 12 sessions a few times a week.

After the complete treatment, maintenance sessions are required once every three to four weeks for as long as the patient wants to continue.

Because cosmetic acupuncture is only a preventative measure, Dr. Rassouli recommends continuing the treatments in order to hold off signs of aging.

“Maintenance is the most important part of the treatment. It actually improves the effect of it,” Rassouli says.

How it’s done:

Most sessions will last about an hour. Generally the doctor uses specific acupressure points to promote balance; this will ensure that you don’t become dizzy after your session. If you have other problem areas on your body, like knee pain or digestive problems, the doctor may also use those points to balance. This means that you will not only receive cosmetic treatment but some medical treatment as well.

After the balancing is done, the doctor begins to insert acupuncture needles in target areas on the face.

By the end of the treatment, you end up looking younger and healthier almost immediately.

The Benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture:

With this treatment you are not receiving any injections, or chemicals.  The acupuncture uses your own body through increasing circulation to fix concerns with aging.

According to Dr. Rassouli, patients that use this treatment at the right age can slow the signs of aging almost indefinitely if they continue for several years.

“Let’s say you have noticeable frown lines when you’re 35, when you start doing cosmetic acupuncture, it will delay that from being deeper for the next five to 10 years,” she says.

The Risks of Cosmetic Acupuncture:

The only risk of this procedure is localized bruising that can last for a few days.

The chances of this increase if you’re taking regular medications, especially pain killers.  Dr. Rassouli recommends not taking medications for at least 48 hours prior to treatment.

She also says taking a homeopathic pellet called Arnica, 20 minutes prior to treatment can also decrease the risk.

Leave your makeup bag at home and get a look that lasts

The most commonly asked question I get from people about makeup is:  how to have your makeup last all day and still look fresh.  I know for many, this seems like a truly impossible feat but it’s not.

So many women carry a full makeup bag with them when they leave the house for touch ups and while there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, it really isn’t necessary.

I’m a makeup artist and beauty junkie; I never leave my house with anything more than lipstick and gloss.  I apply my makeup at 7a.m. and I will look relatively the same right into the evening sometimes even the next morning.  We all know you should always wash your face before bed, but we all slip here and there, just don’t tell anyone.

Some of us are just lucky in that our skin holds makeup well but we can all achieve those results, the trick is in the products and application.

You just need to arm yourself with the right tools and some tips and tricks of how to apply your makeup then you are guaranteed to get the job done right the first time.

I follow these guidelines when I am applying makeup on clients especially for brides since they need their makeup to be picture perfect the entire time.

Face

After you have applied your moisturizer, you should always use a face primer before applying foundation.  This will help to eliminate any lines or creases and it gives you a perfect canvas.

There are several on the market some of my favorites include:  MAC Prep & Prime Face cream, Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional,  Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer and L’Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base.

There are so many to choose from, you just need to go into your local beauty boutique and see which is best for your skin type.

The other tip is to always use a powder over your liquid foundation to set it, I like to use MAC Mineralize Skin Finish powder, it’s very light and it will illuminate your face.

At this point if you feel like your skin needs more moisture MAC Fix+ is something you can spray over or under your makeup which will help it last longer and infuse your skin with additional moisture.

Once you have completed your entire face, eyes included spritz eight pumps of Skindinavia on your face.  Skindinavia is a makeup sealer and there are several varieties you can choose from.  So far my favorite is the Bridal Finish, it’s tear and moisture resistant which helps prevent touch ups even on the hottest days.

Finally, if you feel that your skin gets oily throughout the day you shouldn’t go to your foundation to fix this, your makeup will begin to look cakey with constant layering. Instead, I would suggest using a blot powder or Forever HD Microfinish Loose Powder.  It’s made of 100 per cent mineral silica powder which will mattify the skin and give you a glowing radiant look.  This product is good for all skin tones.

Eyes

When applying eye makeup use concealer on eyelids and below eyes. It should be applied in a patting dabbing motion. Do not rub or blend into skin, this will just move the product around and it won’t really do its job.

After applying concealer, a light dusting of powder and then an eye primer or a makeup base.  They work similarly to the face primers and the idea here is that once you apply your eye shadow it will stick onto the primer like glue. It will also enhance your shadow colors and it prevents creasing of your makeup.

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion has a cult like following; this is by far one of the most popular products right now.  It’s a great neutral tone product that is good for all skin tones.

The other option is to use a makeup base such as MAC Paint Pot which comes in several shades from neutrals to bright blues and corals.  The neutrals are great to pair with any colour eye shadow however if you were to use one of the colours you can do tone on tone to enhance the shadow.

When applying eye shadow, use a flat brush like MAC #252. In a patting motion so that the shadow will adhere to the primer and stay on.

Finally to finish off your eyes use something like Benefit Cosmetics She Laq it‘s an amazing product that is used to prevent smudging of shadows, mascara, lipsticks and liners.

Lips

Lips are a bit tougher since we use our mouths so often. So this one may require touch ups however you can seal or stain your lips so that they last longer or leave colour even when the gloss comes off.

MAC Prep + Prime Lip is a colour-free product that you wear underneath your lipstick.  It smooths out lines and adds moisture. Apply a lip liner all over the lips first and fill it in, then add a layer of lipstick.  Pat off the color with a tissue. Then separate a tissue from its layers and using one layer place it on top of the lips. I pat some loose powder onto the tissue.    Then I add another layer of lipstick and a gloss to finish it off.

The other option would be to use longwear lip products such as Revlon Colorstay Ultimate Liquid Lipstick that is a one-step process and claims to be food-proof for up to 12 hours. Also there is MAC Pro Longwear Lipcolour, which is a two- step process, one being a colour base and with the flip of the stick it is a fabulous clear gloss.  It feels great on and most importantly it is kiss proof.

So enjoy practicing these techniques, until next time, stay fabulous!

Samantha Fayman