Test Your Skin Anti-Aging Knowledge
- What is the most important thing you can do to keep your skin looking younger? a. Use sunscreen daily b. Stay out of direct sun and use sunscreen daily c. Use sunscreen and a moisturizer daily
- Why does darker skin seem to age better than fair skin? a. Darker skin has more natural oil, which prevents wrinkles b. Darker color camouflages the wrinkles c. Darker skin has more melanin, which protects them from sun damage
- How are antioxidants involved in the anti-aging effort? a. They block the sun’s rays b. Antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals c. Antioxidants reverse the aging process in skin cells
- Which vitamins act as antioxidants? a. A, C, E b. A, B, C c. B, C, E
- Which antioxidant has been proven to stimulate collagen production? a. Vitamin A b. Vitamin C c. Vitamin E
- In an episode of “20/20” a small village in Japan was featured for having a large number of residents with youthful-looking elderly residents. What naturally occurring substance did the show attribute this phenomenon to? a. DMAE b. Copper Peptide c. Hyaluronic Acid
- What are the two skin-resurfacing techniques that are used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles? a. Hydrabrasion and chemical peel b. Dermabrasion and alpha-hydroxy acid treatment c. Dermabrasion and chemical peel
- Why do most smokers tend to have older-looking skin than non-smokers? a. Smoking destroys collagen b. Smoking slows the skin production of oil c. Smoking dries out the skin
- What is the only skin care product that has been proven to reverse fine lines? a. Antioxidants b. Retinoids c. Avobensone
- What is the active ingredient in the most effective anti-aging spot product? a. Alpha-hydroxy acid b. Hydroquinone c. Salicylic acid
- (b) – 90% of skin damage is caused by the sun. Keep SPF 30 or higher.
- (c) – Melanin prevents sun damage
- (b) – Free radicals cause cell destruction which could accelerate the aging process, as well as cause cancer
- (a) The most effective trio
- (b) – Topical products with vitamin C have been shown to help with collagen synthesis
- (c) – Their diet was rich in root vegetables, a good source of hyaluronic acid
- (c) – The most common skin resurfacing procedure. Dermabrasion scrapes off a layer of skin and the peel dissolves them
- (a) – smoking increases the production of an enzyme which destroys collagen
- (b) – Studies have shown that topical retinoids, such as Retin-A, do decrease wrinkles and the effects of sun damage
- (b) – Hydroquinone is contained in bleaching creams and lightening agents. They are available over-the-counter (OTC) or by prescription
- Facial exercises tone facial muscles.
- Skin pores open and close.
- Using more of a facial product each time will produce better results.
- Natural and organic products are always better.
- Mineral oil is good for your skin.
- Packaging of skin care products is important.
- False. The face is the only part of the body where muscles are attached directly to the skin. Wrinkles actually form along expression lines due to repetitive facial movements.
- False. Larger pores are created by genetics, dead cells or from scarring caused by squeezing blemishes. They do not open and close.
- False. Using large amounts of facial products each time will create skin issues and cost more money in the long run.
- False. These products are not always as they claim to be. While not all organic and natural product ingredients are good, not all chemicals are bad.
- True. Mineral oil, the white medicinal type, has met stringent safety standards. It is helpful in removing sebum plugs in the follicles. Water-based products cannot.
- True. How skin care products are packaged is very important since it is what protects the efficacy of the ingredients. Wide-mouthed jars, transparent containers, and pumps are not airless and pose problems in keeping the ingredients safe and potent.
Paraffin Treatments
Paraffin use can be traced back to ancient Rome by soldiers and gladiators. They used it for sore muscles. The Brits were reported to have used paraffin to treat certain wounds. Later, the French used it to smooth and soften skin. Today you can find these treatments available in spas, salons, and private homes around the world.
How do you use the melted wax? A heater that maintains a steady, low heat is used to melt the wax. Wax can be purchased in bricks or beads and is available scented with essential oils or fragrances or unscented for those with sensitivities. You dip your entire hand or foot in the wax bath just until it is covered, slide it into a plastic sleeve made especially for this purpose or wrap it in plastic wrap. It can then be placed in a special mitt or towel for a pre-determined time, then you can just slide the plastic off and the wax will easily slide off as well to be discarded. The skin will feel smooth and soft.
Who would benefit from paraffin treatments? These treatments are contraindicated for those with diabetes, circulatory issues, broken skin, wounds or high blood pressure. Those with dry, chapped skin may benefit from treatments. It may also be beneficial for those suffering from arthritis or soreness in their hands. The heat from the wax treatment increases the circulation, which often reduces pain.
Is this melted wax safe to use? Keep in mind that the wax comes from petroleum. It has to be processed and bleached before it is safe to use. The chemicals used in this process are not safe and may cause health issues for some. Once the wax has been removed it should not ever be put back into the wax warmer to prevent contamination.
Sandi’s Skin Care Q & A
Q: I think I might have Rosacea because my face is flushed most of the time on my cheeks and my nose, but I’m in my 40s. Is that possible?
A: According to a recent survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society symptoms of Rosacea may first appear at any age.
Q: My sister told me I should use blotting papers for my face since my face is oily. Do they really work?
A: Blotting tissues have been around for years used for removing excess oil from the face and that shine it produces. The truth is they are not a good choice since pressing the specialized paper on the face also presses all of the invisible dirt accumulated back into the pores.
Q: If all of the products I use on my face in the morning have an SPF rating does that increase my protection from the sun?
A: Only the highest rated product will offer you protection; it’s not cumulative.
Q: What is the purpose of a face massage when I get a facial?
A: A facial massage is an important component to a facial since it increases circulation and cellular oxygenation.
Q: I keep my eye makeup forever; is there a time limit on holding on to them?
A: Bacterial conjunctivitis is a common problem caused by eye makeup. The recommended time for replacement is three months.
Do you have a skin care question you would like to ask Sandi? Submit your question to her at handsofki@yahoo.com. Her response will appear in our next month’s issue.
Home Recipes for Your Skin
Homemade Coconut Oil Hand Scrub
1 Tablespoon coconut oil
2 tablespoons raw honey
¼ cup sea salt
¼ cup organic sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Stir together honey and coconut oil in medium bowl.
- In another small bowl blend salt, sugar and lemon juice until it becomes crumbly
- Pour salt mixture over the honey mixture and stir until smooth
- Mix with back of spoon until frosting consistency
- Rub onto face and neck after bathing
- Mix all ingredients
- Store in airtight container in dark, cool place
- Use a clean brush each time
