The Georgia Beauty Beat

Got wrinkles, sugar?

2011-03-14T05:18:00.000-07:00

We spend a bazillion dollars each year trying to stave off the signs of aging. I don't know about you, but I think I'm addicted to buying anything that says it will get rid of wrinkles! I slather on stuff without really looking at the ingredients, praying it's not going to cause bigger problems down the road.

I have just learned that there is something I can do that may have a stronger chance of deterring those wrinkles than any cream I use. It's sugar, sugar.

I'm not talking about sugar scrubs, I'm talking about what you ingest. You need to cut it back or stop eating the stuff entirely it seems.

Yes, too much sugar can cause wrinkles according to studies. The more sugar you eat over time, the duller your skin and the more wrinkles you can develop.

Per Prevention via MSNBC: "At blame is a natural process that's known as glycation, in which the sugar in your bloodstream attaches to proteins to form harmful new molecules called advanced glycation end products (or, appropriately, AGEs for short). The more sugar you eat, the more AGEs you develop. "As AGEs accumulate, they damage adjacent proteins in a domino-like fashion," explains Fredric Brandt, MD, a dermatologist in private practice in Miami and New York City and author of "10 Minutes 10 Years." Most vulnerable to damage: collagen and elastin, the protein fibers that keep skin firm and elastic."

High fructose sugar is reportedly worse than plain sugar when it comes to AGEs.

It's never to young to start worrying about the effects of sugar, either! Per a Yahoo article on the subject, "A 2007 study in the British Journal of Dermatology found that sugar's effects on the skin begin to show at about age 35 and become more pronounced as you get older. And it's not just the obvious culprits, like soda and candy, that cause damage; other foods with a high glycemic index, like white bread, pasta and potatoes also cause the formation of AGEs, because they are quickly converted to sugar in the bloodstream. To make matters worse, AGEs also make the skin more susceptible to sun damage, which in turn accelerates the glycation process."

Have diabetes? Does it run in your family? You may have it and be completely unaware for quite some time. According to an AOL article, "One group that knows all too well sugar's ravaging effects: people with diabetes, who-because they can suffer from years of undetected high blood sugar-often show early signs of skin aging. "Depending on how well their disease is controlled, diabetics can have up to 50 times the number of AGEs in their skin as those who don't have diabetes," says Karyn Grossman, MD, a dermatologist in New York City and Santa Monica, CA, and chief of the division of dermatology at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica."

Avoiding sugar entirely is virtually impossible given the number of foods that turn into sugar in your system. However, you can cut back on added sugars with a bit of will power. You may find it easy to eliminate sugary sodas from your diet, but what about candy bars? cakes? donuts? Of course, a side benefit of cutting out those sugary treats is not just reduced wrinkles! You could find yourself fitting into those clothes you stuck in the back of the closet in hopes someday they'd fit again.

If you have the strength of character to ditch the known sugary foods, you then have to move onto the hidden sugars in food. Did you know that sugar is now added to mayonnaise? Dukes is the only one we've found that didn't have sugar. All those processed microwave dishes? Look at the label and you might be surprised to find sugar listed, as well as high fructose corn syrup, dextrose and other not so obvious types of sugar.

According to recommended food guidelines we're not supposed to eat more than 8 to 10 teaspoons of sugar a day. Don't think you're eating that much? One can of soda has roughly ten teaspoons of added sugar. Eight Hershey's Kisses.

Here's a new blog we've started that keeps up with hidden sugars, titled, surprisingly, "Hidden Sugars". We have included a list of names for sugar that manufacturers use on the tab "Hidden Sugar". If you decide to cut back or eliminate sugar you're probably going to be surprised at how often you'll see two or three different types of sugar in a product. When you add them all up, often sugar becomes the largest ingredient.

Don't think you'll be able to cut back on sugar enough to have an impact? Whether you do or not, we suggest using sunscreens to reduce the effects of harmful rays on the skin and make sure to take a healthy dose of Vitamin C to combat the effects of sugar and other nasties that contribute to aging your skin and body. B1 and B6 are also great at helping to combat the effects of life on your body.

Try drinking more water. Water flushes things through your system faster and helps to get rid of toxins.

Choosing summer footwear that looks and feels great

2010-06-22T06:33:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - So long, snow boots, warm weather is here at last after one of the snowiest winters on record. But while you're skipping through summer in your saucy sandals or padding through the sand in your favorite flip-flops, what toll will your seasonal footwear take on your hardworking feet?

Nearly eight of every 10 Americans have experienced foot problems caused by wearing uncomfortable or ill-fitting shoes, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. "Many of us increase our activity levels in the summer, and that could mean an increased risk of foot and ankle discomfort or even injury," says APMA President and podiatrist Dr. Kathleen Stone. "Plus, many of the shoes we enjoy wearing during warm weather, like flip-flops and sandals, may not always be the best choice in terms of foot health."

The foot health experts at APMA offer some advice for taking care of your feet this summer:

Finding flip-flops

Once considered only beach wear, flip-flops have gone fashionable, now showing up in offices, classrooms and social events when warm weather arrives. But some styles may be more harmful to your feet than others and can cause blisters and foot pain. When shopping for flip-flops:

* Forego vinyl or rubber and look for high-quality, soft leather, which will minimize the potential for blisters and other irritations. The APMA certifies some footwear products with its Seal of Acceptance, which tells you a team of APMA podiatrists have evaluated the footwear to ensure it allows the most normal foot function and promotes foot health.

* Like all shoes, the flip-flop should bend at the ball of the foot. Don't buy it if the shoe bends completely in half.

* Straps should fit comfortably but not be too loose or too snug. Your foot should not hang off the edge of the flip-flop. The thong between the toes should not be irritating.

* If last year's flip-flops show severe signs of wear, toss them and buy a new pair.

* Don't wear flip-flops for long walks; even the sturdiest styles don't offer sufficient arch support and shock absorption for extended wearing. And never wear them when doing yard work or playing sports.

* If you suffer from heel pain or diabetes, avoid flip-flops altogether.

No sandal scandals

As popular as flip-flops, sandals are versatile options for warm weather footwear, but you don't have to sacrifice foot health to look good in them. Foot care specialists with the APMA suggest that you should choose a sandal as much for its comfort and support as its fashion appeal. Fortunately, following a few simple steps can ensure your feet look and feel good in the summers hottest fashion sandals:

* Flats and slides are comfy and convenient, but prolonged wearing and inadequate support and cushioning may lead to arch and heel pain. Use cushioned inserts to improve sandals' support, and choose styles that have soles that don't twist excessively.

* Gladiator sandals are back in step this season, but some styles may irritate the toes and cause calluses on the heels. Choose natural materials like soft, supple leather. Toes and heels should not hang off edges.

* Platforms and high heels may make your legs look great, but they can also put you at risk of foot and ankle injuries. Opt for heels less than 2 inches high, which offer more stability.

* Rubber soles with good traction, and a wider, flatter wedge are a must for anyone wearing wedges or espadrilles.

* Peep-toe sandals can put a lot of pressure on your feet, causing bunions and hammertoes over time. Wear them for short periods only and use APMA accepted toe inserts to improve comfort.

* Ankle-wrap sandals often lack true ankle support, and friction from the straps may cause blisters. Choose sandals with straps made of soft, breathable material like leather, cotton or satin. Never wrap the straps too tightly.

Podiatrists are uniquely trained to treat ailments of the foot and ankle, even serious conditions that may require surgery. If you suffer from persistent pain in your feet or ankles, it may be time to see a podiatrist. You can find a podiatrist by visiting the APMA's website, www.apma.org. You'll also find more helpful information on how to keep your feet healthy at any age, and during any activity, on the site.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Warm-Weather Trends Focus On Nude Shades And Bare Legs

2010-06-17T08:11:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-As temperatures rise, there are new opportunities to find styles that suit you-and this season's warm-weather looks are no exception.

To help shape up your summer style while staying within your budget, here are some tips from fashion and style expert Lilliana Vazquez of Cheap Chica's Guide to Style-- http://cheapchicas.com.

• Nude Shades--This season, anything in nude shades will be hot. These tones are very sexy, show off your tan beautifully and have been all over the red carpet on Hollywood's hottest celebs.

• Rompers--Rompers are a flirty and fun alternative to a dress that's much more current. Always remember when you're showing off your legs that smooth skin is a must. Nair Shower Power Max is an easy and convenient way to get smooth skin that lasts days longer than shaving. It actually removes hair while you shower and comes in a convenient pump you can keep in your shower caddy. With designers showing shorter skirts and shorts, your legs will be more in focus than in seasons past. This summer, you could win concert tickets from the makers of Nair. Find out more about the Nair Step Out Challenge at NairLikeNeverBefore.com.

• Menswear-inspired Pieces--Who doesn't love a classic white button-down? Pair it with something super sexy such as a bikini or a banded skirt for a feminine flair.

• Perfect Prints--From abstract watercolor prints to classics like polka dots and stripes, there's a print out there for every personality.

• Wedges and Ghillie Ties--For summer sandals, wedges are easy to wear on the boardwalk or on the beach. If you need something a little dressier, a lace-up or Ghillie Tie sandal is the "it" shoe for the summer. A tan pair is a great go-with-everything style that will make your legs look a million miles long.

This season's rompers, shorter skirts and shorts focus on legs. Smooth skin is a must when showing off your legs.

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The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention Encourages Everyone to Protect Your Skin Today and Every Day

2010-05-26T04:46:00.000-07:00

PRNewswire -- As millions of Americans prepare to enjoy the great outdoors Memorial Day weekend, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention reminds everyone to practice sun-safe behaviors - pack those wide-brimmed hats in the suitcase. The incidence of melanoma (the most fatal of skin cancers) continues to rise significantly, at a rate faster than any of the seven most common cancers.(1) In an effort to raise awareness about a health issue that is largely preventable: skin cancer, the Council is naming the Friday before Memorial Day Don't Fry Day.

"Many people believe skin cancer occurs after a lifetime of exposure, and yet, melanoma is the second most common form of cancer for young adults 15-29 years of age(2)," says Henry Lim, MD, Council co-chair. "In the last 30 years, the number of women under age 40 diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma has more than doubled while the squamous cell carcinoma rate has also increased significantly."(3)

"Any change in your skin, whether burned or slightly tanned, is a sign of UV damage," says Drusilla Hufford, former Council co-chair. "The good news is: you can protect yourself and your family members from skin cancer's main cause: too much sun. In the same way we teach kids to wear bike helmets, we can also teach them to wear wide-brimmed hats."

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers in the United States. More people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year than breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancer combined. Whether from the sun or an artificial light source, ultraviolet radiation is a carcinogen. According to a recent study, in 2006, in the 116 largest (most populous) U.S. cities, there were, on average, more tanning salons than there were Starbucks® coffee shops.(4)

Here are some simple ways to be safe in the sun. Remember, Slip, Slop, Slap®... and Wrap(5) and plan activities away from the midday sun:

- Slip on a shirt;
- Slop on sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher);
- Slap on a hat; and

- Wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and sensitive skin around them from ultraviolet light.

For more information, including additional statistics and other resources, visit the Council's site: http://www.skincancerprevention.org/ The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention is the united voice of 45 groups dedicated to reducing skin cancer morbidity and mortality in the U.S. Council members represent some of the nation's premier researchers, clinicians and advocates for melanoma and skin cancer prevention.

1. LAG Ries, D Melbert, M Krapcho, A Mariotto, BA Miller, EJ Feuer, L Clegg, MJ Horner, N Howlader, MP Eisner, M Reichman, BK Edwards (eds). National Cancer Institute, Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results Cancer Statistics Review 1975-2004: http://seer.cancer.gov/csr/1975_2004/.

2. U.S. National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute. "Cancer Epidemiology in Older Adolescents & Young Adults," Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results AYA Monograph (2007): 53-63.

3. LJ Christenson, TA Borrowman, CM Vachon, MM Tollefson, CC Otley, AL Weaver, RK Roenigk. "Incidence of basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas in a population younger than 40 years," JAMA (2005): 294: 681-690.

4. Katherine D. Hoerster, Rebecca L. Garrow, Joni A. Mayer, Elizabeth J. Clapp, John R. Weeks, Susan I. Woodruff, James F. Sallis, Donald J. Slymen, Minal R. Patel, Stephanie A. Sybert. "Density of Indoor Tanning Facilities in 116 Large U.S. Cities," American Journal of Preventive Medicine, no. 36 (March 2009): 3, 243-246: http://www.ajpm-online.net/article/PIIS0749379708009756/abstract.

5. Slip, Slop, Slap® is a registered trademark of the American Cancer Society.

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Top Tips For Spring Beauty

2010-05-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-Spring has officially sprung, and from the fashion runways to the beauty pages of your favorite magazine, looking great this season is all about skin-baring looks and fresher, lighter makeup. You may think the new trends are going to cost you a fortune, but it is easier than you might think to get your beauty routine ready for spring.

"Altering your beauty regimen for spring and summer is simple; all it takes are a few easy changes," says Rebekah George, former beauty editor at Prevention magazine. Here are some tips that George recommends:

• Peachy Lips--Gone are the severe reds and pinks of this past winter. This season, lips are lighter, more natural looking. "We saw lots of peach and light coral tones on the runway for spring 2010," says George. "These colors brighten your face and give you a fresh, lively look."

• Silky Soft Skin--It's the season for tank tops and mini-skirts, so it's more important than ever that your skin looks and feels great. The best way to get silky smooth skin is to moisturize daily. "I recommend Vaseline Sheer Infusion body lotion with Stratys-3, a superior moisturizing technology that gives you incredibly silky skin that lasts all day long. It provides twice the moisture when compared to other leading everyday body lotions," says George.

• Soft Waves--Hair has lightened up for summer as well. Soft, natural-looking waves complement spring and summer styles perfectly and they are easy to re-create. "Instead of using a brush," suggests George, "try finger-combing wet hair to maintain a natural wave. Then apply a mousse for a light hold and body. Twist 1−2-inch sections of hair and let them air-dry."

• No-Makeup Makeup--The old adage has always been that you should try to look like you are not wearing makeup at all. This could not be any truer this season. To achieve this look, George suggests sticking to mineral foundations and using light pink and peach tones on eyelids with minimal or no eyeliner.

• Shimmer Is Back--One place where you can get away with a little bit of noticeable makeup is shimmer on your cheeks and eyelids. Shimmery pastels and other light hues will be big this spring. "Check out your local drugstore for shimmery palettes to play with. It is best to gently apply these shades with a large, fluffy shadow brush," says George.

All these great beauty products, which help you get the perfect look this spring, are available at drugstores and makeup counters nationwide.

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How to know when it's time to replace old beauty products

2010-05-04T06:09:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - From the first day she applies new lipstick or inaugurates a new bottle of facial cleanser, every American woman is headed toward the same dilemma. How long will that lipstick tube last? Does the razor you used twice and then forgot about for a couple months have some life left? When is cleanser too old to be effective?

Many of us are unsure when beauty products expire - or even if they do at all. Consequently, we may wind up holding on to partial bottles and remnants of products because we're not sure of their usefulness. The arrival of warm weather is a great time to purge.

Cleaning out old beauty products can be emotionally cathartic, and spare you from using expired items that may potentially irritate your skin or that just don't work anymore. Plus, tossing the old opens up opportunities for discovering great new cosmetics, beauty items and skin care products. Here's some advice to get you started:

Cosmetics

Because cosmetic products are used on some very germ-laden areas of our bodies, like around the eyes, nose and mouth, they can breed bacteria. Therefore, they don't have an indefinite shelf-life. The usable life of some common cosmetics are:

* Mascara and liquid eyeliner - three months

* Cream eye shadows -- three to four months

* Powder shadows -- six months if you don't reuse the applicator; three to four when reusing applicators

* Liquid, cream or powder foundation - one year if regularly applied with a new sponge or puff; six months if applied with fingertips.

* Cream and gel blush -- six months. Powder blushes - about a year

Once you've purged old cosmetics you'll be ready to restock with some of the season's hottest new colors and products.

Skin care products

Skin care products can also be susceptible to bacteria growth over time, so if you don't finish a product within a few months, keep an eye on how long you've had it. Discard products like moisturizers, concealers and toners that contain skin nutrients like vitamin C or alpha hydroxy acids after they've been open for about 12 months. Those active ingredients can lose their effectiveness after a year.

Exposure to moisture, air, direct sunlight and extreme temperatures can all affect the ingredients in skin care products, so store them in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight. And if a product separates or smells differently than it did when you first opened it, discard it right away.

Once you clear out old cleansers and moisturizers, reward your hard work by trying something new, like Olay Professional Pro-X Cleansers, which offer exfoliating and cream formulas. Both are designed to purify and renew skin for a refreshed, smooth texture. Or, pamper dry skin in areas that often get overlooked, like under your arms. Secret Soothing Effects antiperspirants and deodorants use soy and acai berry to soothe sensitive skin and hydrate that underappreciated skin under your arms.

Shaving products

Warm weather means getting a good shave is more important than ever for anyone who wants to wear shorts, tanks, miniskirts or bathing suits. Old shaving products, like razors and creams, not only become a breeding ground for bacteria, they can also leave your legs looking like you've been through a battle.

Depending on how often you shave, a razor should last a couple of weeks or a little longer. A good rule of thumb is to discard disposable razors when the moisture strip on top wears off. If a blade is visibly rusty, toss it immediately. To avoid rust problems, don't leave your razor in the shower where it will repeatedly get wet every time someone showers.

Gather up old razors and any leftover shaving products older than a year and trash them. Then, treat yourself to a new shaving experience by trying Venus Embrace, a woman's razor that gives a close, comfortable shave using five spring-mounted blades surrounded by a protective ribbon of moisture.

Cleaning out old cosmetics and skin care products can help you feel and look better this season. Plus, it's great inspiration to reward your cleaning efforts by trying something new.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Get Married Seeks Real Brides For Its National Wedding Program

2010-01-11T06:16:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Get Married's national wedding program is looking for passionate brides to appear on its television show. Throughout the half-hour program which airs every Saturday at 9:30am ET/PT on WE tv, host Stacie Francombe -- Get Married's CEO and founder -- helps brides identify and match their personality with their unique bridal style. Brides are guided through an array of bridal experiences and participate in inspiring challenges with wedding professionals and experts.

Interested brides-to-be are encouraged to apply by visiting www.getmarried.com/omg where additional details are posted. Brides across the country could be saying "OMG! I'm going to be on TV!"

"Get Married's show is all about the bride. By incorporating real brides in every episode we make a connection with our audience, showing them that every wedding element is attainable regardless of your style," said Stacie Francombe, CEO and founder of Get Married Media. "Get Married's show helps brides create the ultimate wedding that reflects their unique and personal style."

Get Married's television show on WE tv, a women-centric network dedicated to the wedding genre, is among an audience of brides seeking bright, innovative ideas and inspirations. Available in nearly 74 million homes, WE tv is the premier source for women looking to satisfy their curiosity with fascinating, original stories and entertaining content. The series will also simulcast to an additional three million on Wedding Central, a 24/7 multiplatform, interactive programming service devoted to weddings, dating and romance.

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Fast beauty hints for today's time-pressed moms

2009-12-22T08:17:00.000-08:00

(ARA) - With today's hectic lifestyles, time is often hard to come by. As many of us try to juggle multiple responsibilities, the thing that often gets the least attention is our beauty regimen.

"Fortunately, you can still look and feel good without spending a lot of time during these busy holiday seasons," says Joy Bergin, cofounder of the Hot Moms Club and a parenting and style expert. Bergin has shared her style tips with TV's "ET," "The Insider" and "Inside Edition," and has the inside scoop on time-saving beauty secrets employed by some of the biggest names in Hollywood.

For women who want to look and feel their best this holiday season, Bergin offers a few time-saving beauty tips for your regimen:

The eyes have it

"Eyes aren't just the window to your soul, they say a lot about your overall health, vitality and mood," Bergin says. Making your eyes appear larger enhances your entire face. If you don't have time to apply full eye makeup every morning, simply using a waterproof mascara can get you through the day.

A show of hands, please

"There's an old saying in Hollywood - you can't hide the hands," Bergin says. According to a Harris Interactive survey conducted on behalf of Dawn Hand Renewal with Olay Beauty, about three in five (59 percent) women believe hands are one of the parts of a woman's body that most reveal her age. Eighty one percent of women polled believe it is at least somewhat important to maintain soft and youthful-looking hands.

"If you're short on time for salon or paraffin treatments to help your hands look and feel your best, look for products that you use everyday that have added benefits," Bergin says. Dawn Hand Renewal with Olay Beauty, which combines Dawn's cleaning power and revolutionary hand care technology effectively cleans your dishes while transforming the look and feel of your hands.

The scent of beauty

Scent is an easy way to create an aura of beauty. You don't have to spend hours trying on perfumes until you find the right one and you don't have the reapply your scent every few hours. You can create your own personalized "designer scent" - one that you can easily stay with you throughout the day. Mix your favorite designer lotion with a similar scent to extend quantity. The scent will remain strong longer and the lotion will last longer, too.

Skip the facial; scrub instead

Instead of time-consuming facials, buy a soft loofah and gently rub your face in a circular motion with your normal exfoliate cleanser to smooth skin texture and remove dead cells. Replace heavy oil-based foundations with a loose mineral powder to top off your look and give you a natural radiance.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Clinique Pays It Forward With Happy Day, December 11th

2009-12-10T18:39:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Happiness is contagious evoking feelings of universal joy. In a tough economic climate, it's even more important to spread happiness and give back in meaningful ways. For the third consecutive year, Clinique is partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, the largest youth mentoring organization in the country, to continue its tradition of engaging in random acts of happiness.

Clinique teamed up with children from Big Brothers Big Sisters to create personalized holiday cards that embody happiness during the season of giving. The children participated in designing holiday cards and were encouraged to express happy holiday moments visually through their artwork. Six designs were chosen for Clinique Happy Holiday Cards, which will be available complimentary at Clinique counters nationwide and at Clinique.com with a $30 purchase. In addition, Clinique has made a cumulative donation of $350,000 to support Big Brothers Big Sisters initiatives.

"For three consecutive years, Clinique has demonstrated its commitment to our children by selecting Big Brothers Big Sisters as the beneficiary of its annual holiday promotion," said Michael A. Corriero, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC. "Clinique's generosity is bringing holiday cheer to countless children."

"At Clinique, we're committed to paying it forward," said Lynne Greene, Global President of Clinique, Origins and Ojon. "We're thrilled to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters once again and bring smiles to the faces of children who need them the most."

The holiday card icons designed by Big Brothers Big Sisters will also appear on Clinique's Happy Day Card Designer, a customizable e-card application, on Facebook http://apps.facebook.com/clinique_happyday/fb/welcome. Each person can select pictures from his or her Facebook albums, choose a pattern, background colour, Big Brothers Big Sisters icon and greeting and create a one-of-a-kind e-card to share with Facebook friends.

Clinique status updates and tweets will also encourage fans and followers to share their happy moments on Facebook and Twitter. Consumers who accumulate five or more Happy Day Card comments on Facebook will receive either Free Standard Shipping or a sample of a Happy Fragrance with their next order from Clinique.com.

And continuing the brand's global holiday tradition, all Clinique executives, dressed in festive orange, will join their dedicated sales teams at retail counters on Happy Day to spread the holiday cheer, worldwide. Along with the Happy Holiday Cards, Happy-To-Go Fragrance Pencils will be given away for free at Clinique counters nationwide and on Clinique.com with a $30 purchase while supplies last. In addition to the U.S. festivities, Happy Day will continue to spread random acts of happiness across the globe in partnership with locally affiliated charities.

CLINIQUE'S TIPS TO MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON:
1. Smile!
2. Say thank you.
3. Perform an act of happiness.
4. Spread positivity.
5. Pay it forward.

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Get Married Unveils the New Top 10 Bridal Trends for 2010

2009-12-07T06:16:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The holiday season -- between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day -- is the most popular time of year for engagements with approximately 35-40 percent (550,000-650,000) couples getting engaged to be married over the next 12 to 18 months, according to The Wedding Report*. With an estimated 2.2 million weddings projected in 2010*, more than 1.1 million brides will discover their unique bridal style as they plan every moment of their celebration. Get Married offers these brides a sneak peek of the top 10 bridal trends for 2010. From runway fashions and edible passions to techie automations and color saturations, the new bridal trends are all about personalization and expressing your unique bridal style.

"Bringing your unique wedding inspirations to life is as exciting as it is essential when creating the 'wow'-factor," said Stacie Francombe, founder and CEO of Get Married, a tri-media wedding lifestyle platform for passionate brides. "We encourage brides to be bold and adventurous, infusing the elements and styles that excite them in life in this momentous lifecycle occasion."

Following is a look at the top 10 bridal trends for 2010 as determined by Get Married's editorial and production teams as well as leading industry experts:

1. Non-linear aisle: Brides are personalizing the procession by altering
the traditional aisle with a circle or a triangular double aisle,
enabling the couple to enter from multiple spots with a central meeting
point. Stephanie Davis, Get Married magazine editor-in-chief and new
bride, wedded lake-side on a circular dock from which she and her groom
entered. "Our family no longer has two sides, so everyone sat together
and, as an added bonus, there wasn't a bad seat in the house!"
2. Comfort foods with a kick: Chef Wolfgang Puck believes that comfort
foods have become more popular in the current economy. Think burgers,
pizza, ribs, pot pie, and risotto -- but comfort does not have to mean
pedestrian. "Upgrade ingredients and prepare them with great expertise.
Serve hors d'oeuvres like Kobe burgers, wild mushroom risotto, smoked
salmon pizzas, slow-braised short ribs or a simple chicken pot pie with
lobster," advises Puck.
3. Gifting techie gadgetry: Registries and wedding gifts have increasingly
become more high tech. Brides want electronic recipe finders, books and
charging plates, and matching his-and-hers PDA cases--all examples of
great gadgets for the couple as well as thank-you gifts for parents and
the wedding party.
4. Texture-inspired invitations: Top bridal designer Monique Lhuillier
shares inspirations and details from her various collections: "A lot of
fabric details from the dresses translate into the invitations. We use
techniques of embossing to mimic textures and incorporate the same
colors from the gowns into the invitations." Look for details you
would see on the runway on your wedding invitations.
5. Old, new, borrowed and cobalt blue: From hints of blue in bridal
fashion to saturated color throughout the wedding decor, "blues will be
the most requested color in 2010," according to Shane Murray of The
Wedding Report. Bright cobalt blue is a hot hue for 2010, offering
fresh, bold and atmospheric twist on the bluesy tradition.
6. Wear-again bridesmaid dresses: The urban legend of wearing a
bridesmaids dress by choice after the wedding is a reality with the new
silhouettes that mirror what is happening on the runway. Gorgeous and
glamorous dresses with drop waists, bubble skirts and ruffles add an
additional sense of style for bridesmaids to wear -- and wear again.
7. Three-dimensional save-the-dates: Inform your friends and family of
your wedding day with a twist. Three-dimensional elements on the
save-the-dates, like a paper umbrella (signifying a destination
wedding), adds character, humor and relevance.
8. Old Hollywood glam, for men!: A return to Cary Grant's sense of style
is making a comeback this year for grooms, looking charming and dapper
in a white tuxedo with black-rimmed lapels. This cool old-school look
brings back the sharp-looking vest and nostalgic pocket watch.
9. Blogger brides abound: Now more than ever, Get Married is seeing brides
enjoy sharing snippets of surprises, ideas and images throughout their
wedding planning experience. Personal blogs offer a space for brides
to share, gather inspirations and explore. Check out Get Married's
robust and newly-skinned wedding blog.
10. Personalized plus: From the decor designs and inspirational invites to
a great gifts and super-fab favors, Get Married is observing brides'
aspiration for distinctly personalized wedding details. Designing
invitations, save-the-dates and thank-you cards and adding monograms
to guest books, aisle runners and gifts (like cosmetic and travel
bags) offers a hint of personal bridal style. An assortment of
personalized decor, invitations, gifts and favors are available at
www.shop.getmarried.com.

Get Married offers a bridal style quiz for brides to discover their bridal personalities and express it -- available on the homepage at getmarried.com and reflected on the new season of Get Married's show on WE tv. The series will include real brides learning about their bridal style by partaking in fun wedding planning challenges and activities with expert wedding professionals.

More details and images about Get Married's top 10 bridal trends for 2010 -- and additional hot wedding ideas for the coming year -- will be showcased in the second issue of Get Married magazine available January 2010 on newsstands, online, by subscription and as a free first issue.

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Smart gifts for your sexy, sophisticated man

2009-12-01T05:47:00.000-08:00

(ARA) - It's nearly 2010 and real men accessorize. They get manicures, dress well and enjoy wearing sophisticated scents, too. These days, being sexy and chic doesn't conflict with being strong and masculine. This holiday, the best gift to the man in your life should reflect his personal style and sense of casual sophistication.

From grooming products and fragrances to accessories and clothes, here are some gift ideas that embody the class, style and sensuality of the modern man:

1. Modern, masculine scents

Your man is sexy, sophisticated, charming and intelligent, and you want his men's fragrance to be a reflection of him. A good scent is not only the gift that keeps on giving, but it's a gift to you too. After all, is there a better gift than a great-smelling man?

Whether your man is sporty, clean-shaven or a little rock 'n' roll, he needs to have a few good fragrances. These days, with so many to choose from, it's important to select quality over quantity. Blue Seduction for Men by Antonio Banderas is fresh, clean and most of all, sexy. Opt for the holiday gift set which includes an eau de toilette spray and after-shave splash.

For something a little more daring, another great scent is Seduction in Black, also by Antonio Banderas. This scent is spicy and warm, making it the perfect scent for nighttime, when the art of seduction begins. Seduction in Black is sexy and addictive, combining the perfect mix of citrus, spice and musk. Best of all its available at local fine chain drug and mass market retailers.

"Seduction in Black embodies the man who has it all - charm, personality, intelligence and good looks, and ultimately one who knows what it takes to be a success," says Banderas. "It is a scent for a man who is confident in his powers of seduction and who plays out his relationships with a twist of complexity and spontaneity."

2. Grooming gifts galore
Today's man is active in caring for his skin and body. With the men's grooming business booming, gift options are unlimited. Many companies have expanded their lines to include products geared especially toward men's wants and needs. Gift boxes including anti-aging skincare products, bath and body gels and shaving sets are widely available. With skin care becoming more of a concern for men, a gift basket with products promoting healthiness will be appreciated.

3. Watches - a timeless gift
Few pieces of jewelry make more of a statement about a man than his watch, something he'll wear, look at and show off every day. A watch is a gift that perfectly combines the concepts of sophistication and practicality that epitomize the modern male. Whether he's a businessman in need of a power watch that makes a statement in the boardroom, or a professional surfer who needs to know how many seconds until the next killer wave, virtually every man can use a good watch - or even two or three to fit his changing moods and needs. Plus, it's a gift he'll wear next to his skin, subtly reminding him of your touch throughout the day.

4. Chic jackets and casual scarves
Knit sweaters or jackets with a slightly relaxed but tailored shape are the perfect way to stay stylish and contemporary this holiday season. Tweed is gaining popularity, achieving a more casual look that still has a high level of sophistication. Shearling lined coats are a favorite because they have a chic and masculine look and will keep him warm on those cold winter nights.

Add a casual chunky knitted scarf and casual hat and he'll have a look that is put-together yet relaxed. A beautifully knitted scarf or hat is a great holiday gift because it adds style to his favorite jacket, shirt or anything else in his closet. Plus it is functional because it will keep him toasty when the temperatures drop.

This holiday, you can't go wrong with a fragrance or fashion. It is sure to be one his favorites under the tree!

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Opposes Cosmetic Surgery Tax

2009-11-19T11:22:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- As negotiators on Capitol Hill try to find ways to fund a health care overhaul, a 5% tax on cosmetic surgery has been introduced on Nov. 18 as part of the Senate's proposed health reform bill, introduced by US Senator Harry Reid (D-NV). The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery strongly opposes such taxes and urges legislators to consider the following points:

-- A tax on elective cosmetic procedures is an unreliable, risky revenue
source that has no proven record of raising projected revenues.
-- The difficulty of defining elective vs. medically-necessary cosmetic
surgery. There is a blurry line between what procedures are considered
medically-necessary and those that are elective.
-- Retention of highly-skilled physicians is at risk. Physicians face
many challenges in operating their practices on a day-to-day basis.
Turning them into tax-collectors is an additional burden on these
doctors.
-- Cosmetic surgery is not a specialty for only the wealthy or the vain.
In fact, the median income for those electing to have cosmetic surgery
is dropping.
-- Despite the fact that more men are seeking cosmetic procedures than
ever, the largest portion of patients are still working women, who
would be unfairly targeted by such taxes.
-- A large portion of those being taxed would be the baby-boomer
generation. And as this age group continues to age, the more interest
will be generated in cosmetic procedures. It is important to note that
the age bracket are most likely to vote in elections is the same as
those who are electing to have cosmetic procedures.

"Activating a cosmetic surgery tax is not the solution to funding a health care overhaul," states AACS Immediate Past President Dr. Steven Hopping. "While it appears that this is currently a serious consideration, this idea concerns us."

Such a tax has been proposed in numerous states over the years and rejected after examining the feasibility. The only state to approve such a tax has been New Jersey, which has failed to realize proposed profits from the bill and faces opposition from the same legislators who approved it in the first place.

"Implementing such a bill would be a bad idea for patients and physicians," Hopping said.

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A new you for the new year

2009-11-18T07:44:00.001-08:00

(ARA) - With the New Year just around the corner, could it be time for a new you? Have you been wearing the same outfits, in the same order? Has your hair and make-up regimen remained unchanged for the last decade? Reinventing your style can give you a new attitude and outlook. And with a few simple updates, you shouldn't have to worry about breaking your budget.

A new style does not mean a whole new wardrobe. "You can start with garments you already have in your closet," says Anne Hankey Forman, fashion marketing and management instructor at The Illinois Institute of Art - Chicago.

"Mix up the way you wear your pieces," suggests Art Institute of Philadelphia fashion instructor Karen Karuza. "If you always wear a white blouse with a black skirt, try wearing a lavender sweater."

Adding new accessories can bring last year's - or last decade's - outfit back to life. Mary Jo Miller, department chair of fashion and retail management at The Art Institute of Atlanta, says: "Scarves, hats and gloves make your current wardrobe more up-to-date." Shoppers may want to consider getting those accessories in purple, the hot color this season.

Karuza agrees: "Accessorize! Accessorize! Accessorize!" She recommends costume jewelry, belts and colored tights as well.

A new pair of trendy shoes is another simple way to update your look. "They're a fun and easy item that makes you look trend forward," says Forman. And what is the hottest foot trend this season? Both Forman and Miller agree you can't go wrong with the over-the-knee boot. Miller suggests, "Wear them with your skinny jeans, dresses, jackets and leggings from last year's trends and have an instant update."

What about getting professional help to update some older garments? "Make sure the garment is worth it," cautions Forman. Karuza agrees that the garment has to be a high enough quality to justify the cost of a great tailor.

If you can spend a few extra dollars on some new garments, Miller offer this advice, "It's critical that you remain true to your own style and remember that not every trend works on every body." Forman adds: "Dress for your body type, invest in classics, think about what makes sense for your lifestyle and dress for the life that you have."

And instead of looking just to your closet for a new look, take a look in the mirror. Both Miller and Forman agree that a different hairstyle and new make-up can dramatically change and update your style.

When reinventing your style, what's the top "don't"? All three fashionistas agree - do not overspend.

They suggest you create a budget and stick to it. Make sure the trends you buy today are still wearable tomorrow. And don't sacrifice quality for quantity. Karuza cautions, "Don't spend a lot or over-invest until you've test driven your reinvention!"

If you're a fashionista looking for a career in style, learn more about options at The Art Institutes schools by visiting www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Saving Face 101: How to Customize Your Skin Care Routine With Your Skin Type

2009-11-10T15:37:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Finding the right skin care routine starts with understanding the unique needs of your skin type. For example, people with dry skin can benefit from applying moisturizer several times a day; whereas, those with oily skin might need to apply a lightweight moisturizer only once a day, if at all. Customization is key, and dermatologists can help people of all ages and skin types select products based on their individual skin care needs.

Speaking today at the American Academy of Dermatology's SKIN academy (Academy), Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in private practice in Danville, Calif., discussed the importance of an individualized approach to good skin care and offered basic tips for the most common skin types.

"No matter what your skin type, using daily moisturizer and practicing year-round sun protection are vital to maintaining healthy, glowing skin," said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. "That's because with adequate hydration and use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen, the skin has the advantage of protecting itself from free radicals and harmful ultraviolet radiation that cause skin damage, discoloration, premature wrinkles and even skin cancer. Over time, a careful and consistent skin care routine with products designed for specific skin types can gradually improve the overall health and appearance of the skin."

Combination Skin Tips

For many people, their skin has areas that are dry and oily, which is classified as combination skin. With this skin type, the forehead, nose or chin might be oily, but the cheeks could be dry. For combination skin, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends using a mild cleanser that minimizes sebum removal. In addition, a medium-weight lotion with broad-spectrum sunscreen containing many different sunscreen ingredients is beneficial.

"To improve skin texture, prevent fine lines and wrinkles, and help even skin color - especially to help lighten dark spots - an over-the-counter retinol cream or a prescription tretinoin cream can be used during the evening skin care regimen to maintain skin health and prevent future damage," said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. "However, when beginning use of tretinoin, the strength should be gradually increased due to its potential to irritate the skin, followed by vigilant use of a moisturizer to help offset any dryness or peeling."

Dry Skin Tips

For dry skin, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends washing the face twice a day with a gentle cleanser or creamy wash with mild detergent. She suggests applying a moisturizer with sunscreen once a day right after cleansing while the skin is still damp, as this can help seal in moisture.

"If the skin begins to feel tight, reapplying moisturizer midday will help to improve skin hydration," said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. "A sunscreen-containing moisturizer in a smoothing cream formulation that contains antioxidants, plus dimethicone, grape seed oil or petrolatum, which prevent water loss from the skin, also is helpful."

In some cases where the skin is very dry, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal noted that cleansing the face at night - when it is the dirtiest - may be the only time necessary to wash the face to prevent stripping the skin of its natural oils. If so, she advised rinsing the face with cool water in the morning to help maintain natural oils.

When exfoliating flaky skin, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal suggested that exfoliating once a week is sufficient. Since dry skin can be sensitive, gentle retinols should be applied sparingly to start - such as every other night - along with a moisturizing cream to help even skin tone, texture and color while continuing to hydrate the skin.

Oily/Acne Prone Skin Tips

Oily or acne-prone skin, which is prevalent in teenagers and many adults, requires careful observation to ensure the skin responds favorably to products and the overall skin care routine. For example, some people with oily or acne-prone skin need to wash their face as much as two to three times a day. On the other hand, over-washing the skin also can lead to increased oil production, so a balance must be achieved based on an individual's skin care needs. In general, using an oil-free, non-comedogenic foaming cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide is imperative to prevent breakouts.

Dr. Badreshia-Bansal said that contrary to popular belief, oily skin may still require a moisturizer. She suggested a moisturizer that is lightweight and non-comedogenic (does not block pores) that contains sunscreen, which has a dual function as a moisturizer and sun protector when applied every morning. Reapplying a sunscreen during the day is necessary to ensure continuous sun protection.

Exfoliating oily skin once or twice a week is sufficient, but Dr. Badreshia-Bansal cautioned that it is not necessary during acne breakouts, as the mechanical friction caused by exfoliation can make acne worse. She added that for skin that is prone to acne, avoiding products with cocoa butter, cinnamon and coconut oil will help prevent breakouts.

To help soften fine lines while reducing future breakouts, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal suggested using a retinol gel or serum nightly. "Your dermatologist can help recommend gentle and effective products that work together to improve the appearance of oily skin and help prevent acne," said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal.

Sensitive Skin Tips

For sensitive skin, washing the face once a day should be enough to keep the skin clean. Dr. Badreshia-Bansal noted that exfoliation is not necessary and can worsen already sensitive skin.

"Avoiding products that contain fragrances, soap or alcohol will help patients with sensitive skin maintain skin health," explained Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. "Calming ingredients, such as green tea polyphenols, chamomile, and aloe are beneficial and, as a general rule, the fewer ingredients in a product the better."

In the morning, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal suggested applying a cream-based moisturizer to dry skin to help prevent or reduce irritation. Active ingredients found in skin care products penetrate more deeply into damp skin (which often can be beneficial in normal skin), but this can cause more irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. In addition, products containing acids, such as lipoic acid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid, may be irritating to sensitive skin. For that reason, caution must be taken with any skin care product containing these types of active ingredients.

To help prevent fine lines and wrinkles and help reduce irritation, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends using a mild retinoid every night followed by a moisturizer to stimulate collagen production.

Skin of Color Tips

For people with skin of color, there are differences in skin anatomy, physiology, and function that can influence how skin care products react with the skin. Even though skin of color is more resilient in many ways, it also is more sensitive to irritant reactions from harsh chemicals and active ingredients, such as glycolic acid which can lead to exaggerated stinging and potential hyperpigmentation (or darkening of the skin).

Dr. Badreshia-Bansal noted that daily moisturizers are a must, since darker skin has a tendency to appear "ashy" when it is not well lubricated. Creams and lotions applied after showering when the skin is slightly damp can help lock in moisture.

Since skin of color is more prone to discoloration and slow healing and scarring from trauma, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal stressed that sunscreen should be used vigilantly by people of color to prevent further sun damage and hyperpigmentation. She suggested that micronized zinc or titanium-based sunscreens will provide the most effective protection.

"People of color, especially those with darker skin tones, mistakenly believe that they don't need to use sunscreen since they generally don't sunburn," said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. "The fact is that sun damage still occurs in people of color, which can be very difficult to correct. More importantly, studies show that skin cancer is even more life-threatening when it develops in this population, because people with skin of color often ignore the early warning signs - thinking they are not at risk."

In addition, skin lightening products can help lighten discolorations - such as a thin film of kojic acid or a cream containing hydroquinone. However, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal cautioned that patients should be careful not to over-irritate the skin with these products, which can worsen discoloration and acne, particularly in skin of color.

Regardless of skin type, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal finds that a few simple skin care tips can be beneficial in improving the overall appearance and health of the skin.

"I recommend keeping the skin care routine very simple, being very gentle with your skin, and avoid irritating, over-washing and over-scrubbing the face," said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. "Finding moisturizers that contain sunscreen in a single combination product does the job of two products and are excellent for all skin types. The key is to find the skin care routine and appropriate products that work the best for your individual skin type, which is where your dermatologist can help get you started."

For more information on improving the appearance of your skin, go to the "AgingSkinNet" section of www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.

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Defeat Dryness

2009-10-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-It may be simpler than you realize to kiss dry, chapped lips good-bye.

The problem is dry air, cold temperatures and wind can all have a drying effect on skin by drawing moisture away from the body. In fact, lips are composed of the body's thinnest and most fragile skin and are particularly vulnerable, often being the first area to present signs of dryness, sunburn and other wear and tear.

According to a recent survey, 53 percent of the population and 67 percent of women experience dry lips. Symptoms include:

•Dehydration-Lips feel dry and tight.

•Rough Texture-Lips are rough and scale easily.

•Diminished Tone-The natural hue appears faded.

Fortunately, there are easy and inexpensive ways to protect your lips. Here are hints that can help:

•Refrain from licking your lips, which can actually enhance dryness.

•Drink plenty of fluids to remain hydrated.

•Use a humidifier at home to moisten the air.

•For extra protection from wind and cold air, cover your lips with a scarf when you're outdoors.

•Consider a lip product designed to repair damage and improve lip health. To help with long-lasting relief that goes beyond a simple barrier, Neosporin, a brand known for its legacy of healing and leadership in the topical antibiotic category, has introduced a new line of lip health products. It features a patented technology that contains a combination of essential lipids, fatty acids and antioxidants designed to provide cells with the building blocks they need to repair themselves. The daytime Neosporin Lip Health contains SPF 20 to protect skin from the sun's damaging rays. The Overnight Renewal Therapy works during the body's natural recovery process while you sleep for softer lips the next day. Together, they're clinically proven to give you visibly healthier lips in three days.

To learn more about the simple steps you can take to keep your lips healthy, visit www.neolips.com.

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Affordable fall beauty secrets revealed

2009-10-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - In the sea of beauty lotions and potions, how do you know what really works and is worth your hard-earned dollar? It's best to trust the experts who test them all so you know what is fabulous, and what will flounder.

Polly Blitzer, founder and editor-in-chief of BeautyBlitz.com, has spent years immersed in the beauty industry. Today she offers her insider tips for getting the best style at an affordable price:

Tip 1: Utilize the Internet for beauty buzz and best buys

The Internet is a great place to research, find and buy beauty products. There are blogs, sites and forums devoted solely to helping you look good and they can even save you time and money by weeding through the fads and helping you cut through the beauty aisle clutter. Blitzer recommends drugstore.com for their deals on top products.

Tip 2: As weather cools, keep hair healthy and shiny

When looking at hair products, it's hard to tell if it's worth spending more for expensive treatments. What's the difference between pricey and less expensive products? There are a few things that could account for the price difference – packaging, exotic ingredients, small manufacturing facilities, etc. That doesn’t mean, however, that products without those are any less effective. Look for hair care products that have won numerous awards by beauty and fashion magazines since they have expertise in the area.

To get sexy autumn locks at an affordable price, try Pantene Pro-V products. Experts agree that Pantene products provide damage protection that even the leading salon brands can't beat and the line was even recently awarded the "Good Housekeeping" Institute Seal.

Tip 3: Utilize household staples

When looking to save a buck and still look fabulous, see what you have around your house. Always stock up on cotton swabs because they can be used for virtually anything. Clear nail polish goes beyond nail use – fix a quick loose stitch on the bottom of your pants or stop an itching mosquito bite.

Tip 4: Think quality skin care for less

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a quality skin care product. Magazines and beauty editors say great things about – and give plenty of awards to – drugstore favorite Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream. Priced at $25, it recently outperformed pricier luxury creams costing as much as $350 in testing by the "Good Housekeeping" Institute. Its high quality ingredients and both immediate and long-term results make it a great buy.

Tip 5: Focus on the fall beauty trends

Metallic nail polishes are in this season – everything from silvers to bronzes to golds. The red lip is still on-trend as is the smoky eye, although it’s been freshened up by using soft grays instead of severe blacks. Finally, on cheeks, try a nice pink flush to give yourself an almost fairy or pixie look. Blitzer likes CoverGirl’s Cheekers collection, also a regular winner in the beauty magazine competitions.

Tip 6: Get the hair color to match the look

Want to find a way to extend the time between your salon visits without sacrificing great looking color? Current at-home dye kits are very easy to use. One that particularly stands out is Clairol Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy. It was the most awarded at-home hair color in 2008 by beauty editors at national beauty magazines because it’s the first to offer high-gloss hair color that covers 100 percent of grays in just 10 minutes. Look for rich, shiny colors this fall in shades of gold.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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How To Look Great In Glasses

2009-10-05T07:12:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-Finding the perfect eyeglasses doesn't have to be difficult or break the bank. One important tip to remember is that facial features are the best guide for selecting the most complementary pair of frames.

"If people try to follow trends too closely when shopping for glasses, they may end up choosing a pair that doesn't fit properly or complement their face," said supermodel and fashion designer Daisy Fuentes. "It's important to find frames that accentuate your best features before focusing on the look you are trying to achieve, whether it's stylish, intelligent or geek chic."

Fuentes, whose line of affordable eyewear is sold at Walmart Vision Centers, recommends the following tips for matching the perfect pair of glasses with various face shapes:

Oval: Keep balance and proportion in mind when trying on different options and look for frames that are as wide as the broadest part of the face. Make sure the eyewear features aren't overwhelming.

Round: A round face is full with curvy lines and no angles. Use eyewear to provide a slimming effect and minimize the fullness of the face. Avoid square styles. Look for oversized eye shapes in oval or rectangle to make the face appear longer and thinner.

Square: Square faces often have a strong jawline, broad forehead and wide chin and cheekbones. Choose a frame with soft lines or curves to enhance and make the face appear longer. Try highlighting the cheekbones with a cat-eye-inspired look.

Another factor in choosing frames is the prescription in the lenses; this affects which frame style to pick. Plastic frames are usually the first choice for thick lenses, although they may have a tendency to slide down the nose frequently without adjustable nose supports. Metal frames are more durable and are a great choice for people who prefer a lower-profile design. Whichever the choice of frames, be sure to pick a color that complements hair, eye color and skin tone.

"If you have red hair and freckles, avoid bright red frames. Dark skin tones look great with a lighter pair of glasses and vice versa," said Fuentes. "Pick hues that accentuate your eye color. You can amplify your brown or blue eyes by wearing glasses with a similar shade."

After selecting the frames, it's important for people to wear glasses that are recommended by an optometrist and to get regular eye exams to ensure the prescription stays up to date. The latest eyewear styles by Daisy Fuentes and other celebrities, as well as affordable eye exams by licensed optometrists, are available at nearly 3,000 Walmart Vision Centers across the country.

Look Out for this Season's Hottest Eyewear Trends:

Animal Attraction: Leopard and snake in all shapes, sizes and colors. Mix with any trendy color to make a glam statement.

Retro Revival: Vintage is new again with a sprinkle of geek chic. A great vintage accessory will spice up any wardrobe and keep a signature look from looking stale.

Star Studded: Bold, brave, confident…perfect to satisfy the inner diva and make heads turn when entering a room.

True Beauty: From airy feminine details to dangerous curves, make sure to infuse some personality into an everyday wardrobe.

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Three beauty looks to get ready for the holiday party season

2009-09-29T06:29:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - With the season of soirees upon us, the ultimate look is needed to stand out among the crowd of little black dresses. With a few simple steps, it’s easy to have the appearance of professionally done makeup without emptying your wallet. Be your own makeup artist by trying these three looks from the pros to accent your best features.

Smokey eyes
International makeup artist, Jemma Kidd recommends a dramatic smoky eye to pump-up the glam.

Step 1 – Sweep a light highlighter shade over the whole lid to the browbone.

Step 2 – Apply a dark and intense shade along the lashline, blending up and smoking outwards to the socket line.

Step 3 – Smudge eyeliner across upper and lower lashline; use black for ultra intensity.

Step 4 – Finish off with dark, black mascara, and for a full on look, go for false eyelashes. For an ultra-modern take, add a touch of glitter to lower lids and lashes.

Tip: To finish off the face, use a nearly-naked base, with barely-there flush on cheeks and a nude color for the lips.

Natural perfection
Petra Strand, makeup artist and creator of Pixi, firmly believes that makeup should make a woman look like herself – only more gorgeous.

Step 1 - Prime the skin with a primer – skin will look youthful, glowing and hydrated.

Step 2 - Switch to a base that is sheer and use a concealer for those areas that need a little extra help. Your complexion will look naturally flawless.

Step 3 - Use a cheek gel instead of regular blush to give an instant "lift" with a transparent touch of color on the apples of the cheeks.

Step 4 - Switch from full coverage lipsticks to a tint of color that has both the moisture and treatment of a balm for a perfect pout.

Tip: The next generation of powders is here with a diffused matte finish that is truly perfect to "set your makeup" so that it goes the distance yet you look "fresh as a daisy."

Sophisticated glamour
For classic holiday glam, celebrity makeup artist Napoleon Perdis recommends being bold and brilliant.

Step 1 – Prime your skin for a flawless canvas for makeup application and follow with your perfect foundation match for full coverage and matte skin.

Step 2 – Make a lip statement. Red lips are the most glamorous trend of the season. Pick your favorite red and make sure to always apply lip liner to prevent bleeding. To give the illusion of fuller lips, dab some gloss only on the center of the pout, over lipstick.

Step 3 – To perfectly complement your bold lips, keep the eyes neutral. Use a neutral and easy palette of taupe eye shadows for a seductive eye.

Tip: Complete the look with black mascara – always remember that three coats is the magic number, and a look is never complete without show-stopping lashes.

Don’t have all that’s needed for the ultimate glam look to show off your best assets? Relax, Target has you covered. Pick up premiere makeup products at budget-friendly prices from Pixi, JK Jemma Kidd and NP Set at Target stores nationwide and at target.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Look Good...Feel Better Announces 'Women of Hope is Beautiful' Honorees

2009-09-22T06:11:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Look Good...Feel Better, a national public service program that helps women cope with the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment, proudly announces the honorees from its Women of Hope is Beautiful campaign, a nationwide search to identify five women who embody the core values of the Look Good...Feel Better program -- courage, confidence, control, community and caring -- and inspire others with their spirit.

The five Women of Hope is Beautiful will be honored at the DreamBall, an annual black-tie charity gala at the Waldorf=Astoria, held on September 24, that supports the Look Good...Feel Better program and celebrates its 20th anniversary. The women will also receive complementary makeovers with hairstyling by Anthony Barrow, Avon Global Stylist and Advisor, and makeup application by Ida Abruzzi.

"We received so many compelling stories of strength and determination, and it was very challenging to select just five women," says Louanne Roark, executive director, Personal Care Products Council Foundation and the Look Good...Feel Better program. "These women have all experienced the tremendous impact a Look Good...Feel Better session can have on a woman's emotional and physical wellbeing, and they each serve as an inspiration to other women undergoing cancer treatment." The five finalists were chosen from more than 150 submissions to the Look Good...Feel Better blog at www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org.

The Women of Hope is Beautiful hail from all across the country - from Washington state to South Carolina to New York. They are mothers and wives, sisters and daughters, and while they each fought an individual battle against cancer, they have all benefited from attending a Look Good...Feel Better session, and are connected by their positive outlook and remarkable determination in the face of this disease. The honorees include:

Lesley Bonner, who began her battle against Hodgkin's Lymphoma this year, the same week as her 39th birthday. She attended a Look Good...Feel Better session to learn how to deal with her new wigs and head scarves, and makeup application tips. "The best part of the workshop was getting to meet so many beautiful women, all dealing with many of the same issues as myself. I am not alone; I am not different," she says.

Andrea Brown Buford, 52, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last year and attended a Look Good...Feel Better session. "When I did lose my hair, that first day as I prepared to step out into the world among people that knew me with a head full of hair, I took the time to apply what I had learned on my face, but also, that which I had experienced was in my heart," says Andrea. "I stepped out knowing I walked in pure radiance."

Vicki Everhart, 59, a typically strong and independent woman whose breast cancer diagnosis left her frightened and reeling with uncertainty. Vicki calls her Look Good...Feel Better session a "turning point" in her cancer treatment. As she says, "I was so tired and drained from treatments and really only wanted to curl up in a corner...When I left, I felt like I had gotten a new lease on life, and felt pretty for the first time in months!"

Aarika Johnson, who was diagnosed with breast cancer this year on her 25th birthday. As a cosmetology student, Aarika wondered who would want to get their hair cut by the "bald chic." The Look Good...Feel Better workshop was a turning point: "Someday, I was going to have a woman in my chair getting her last haircut before her treatment begins, and maybe I will be of some comfort to her that she will get through the obstacles ahead."

Michele VonGerichten, 46, who is a breast cancer survivor. Michele made the decision to get chemotherapy as an aggressive, preventive measure and immediately made the decision to enroll in a Look Good...Feel Better session. She attended the class excited that it was "something just for us women to help build our self-esteem." She says that she felt a kindred spirit with the other women in the session, and "returned home feeling like I could stay beautiful, and that I was not alone!"

The Women of Hope is Beautiful will be introduced on stage at the DreamBall by Hoda Kotb, co-anchor of the Today show and a breast cancer survivor. Kotb is being honored as this year's "DreamGirl" for her courage in openly sharing her cancer treatment and recovery with millions of viewers on the Today show.

"Hoda and the Women of Hope is Beautiful are such an inspiration - they have shared their remarkable journey with cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery to encourage and inspire others," says Roark. "We are thrilled to celebrate them at this year's DreamBall as their stories are representative of all the women who have gone through the Look Good...Feel Better program over the past 20 years."

Since 1989, Look Good...Feel Better has helped 650,000 women with cancer look good, improve their self-esteem and thereby manage their cancer treatment and recovery with greater confidence through free workshops, practical tips and guidance. Look Good...Feel Better is a collaboration between the Personal Care Products Council Foundation, the American Cancer Society and the National Cosmetology Association.

The DreamBall is jointly sponsored by the Personal Care Products Council Foundation and the American Cancer Society, bringing together nearly 700 executives in the cosmetic industry for the largest Look Good...Feel Better fundraiser of the year.

Look Good...Feel Better is a collaboration between the Personal Care Products Council Foundation, the American Cancer Society, one of the nation's largest voluntary health organizations, and the National Cosmetology Association, a national organization of more than 25,000 hairstylists, wig experts, estheticians, makeup artists and nail technicians. Visit www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org or call 1-800-395-LOOK to learn more about the program, to find a program in your area, or for information on how to volunteer.

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Colorful Trends Turn Up The Heat

2009-09-05T01:16:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-The weather may be cooling down, but fashion trends for the fall are turning up the heat. This season is all about neon accents and make-a-statement looks. Here's the inside scoop on this season's must-have trends.

• Neon rocks the fingertips. The '80s are back, with neon colors spotted on virtually every runway. For those who are a little more girl next door and a little less queen of the catwalk, it's still possible to embrace the latest trends. Start small by rocking a neon shade on your fingertips. The China Glaze nail polish line carries great, bright colors like Neon Purple Panic, Neon In Lime Light and Neon Turned Up Turquoise. Besides being a major trend, a glance at colorful nails is a quick way to pump up your mood as the weather turns dreary.

• The eyes have it for drama. This season, for eyes, the rule of thumb is the more dramatic, the better. Gray, smoky, come-hither eyes are a must, especially when topped off with a great set of lashes. Individual lash application can be tricky, so for the nonprofessional, strip lashes are the way to go. Use an understated set of Ardell strip lashes to add oomph without looking overdone.

• Add new colors for a new look. For the adventurous, colorful eye shadow will wow. With a big statement, it is especially important to test out a few shades until you find one that works for you. Sally Girl has a huge variety, and since they are inexpensive, it's easy to try a few different shades without spending big bucks.

• Update your hairstyle. Still growing out your 2008 bob haircut? Update the style by adding curls and waves with a mini flat iron. It's simple to do and produces curls that are edgier and more modern looking than those made with a curling iron.

Ernie McCraw is a licensed cosmetologist and director of beauty education for Sally Beauty Supply, the world's largest retailer of professional beauty products. With more than 25 years in the beauty industry, Ernie has expertise in all phases of cosmetology. If you have a beauty question, please e-mail Ernie at asksally@sallybeauty.com. To find a Sally store near you, call 1 (800) ASK-SALLY or go to www.sallybeauty.com.

by Ernie McCraw

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L'Oreal Reveals Beauty Habits in the Face of Recession

2009-08-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- In an ongoing effort to better understand women's beauty routines, L'Oreal, in its 100th year, commissioned an international usage survey. The research featured some unexpected findings about how women's makeup habits are adapting in response to the recession, including how women are using makeup to get ahead at work.

The Beauty Barometer survey asked 4,000 women in the U.S. and four European countries about their cosmetic products and usage. And findings revealed that while women have changed the shades they purchase to be more "natural," they won't be giving up their favorite products anytime soon. Survey highlights include:

-- Nearly half of U.S. women surveyed believe wearing makeup gives them
an advantage at work and makes them feel more in control
-- Four out of 10 U.S. women are wearing more neutral shades and a more
natural makeup style than before the recession

-- The majority of women surveyed believe wearing makeup makes them feel
more self confident, and even more believe that wearing makeup
improves their self image (82 percent and 86 percent respectively)

Proving that beauty is recession-proof, nine out of 10 women in the United States and Europe reported no change in makeup usage despite the economic crisis.

Women won't compromise on their hair either - when it comes to saving money, most U.S. women surveyed (63 percent) have not cut their hair to make it less expensive to maintain.

L'Oreal has led the beauty industry for the past 100 years through a keen understanding of consumer attitudes and preferences. The brand's goal has always been to make beauty accessible to all and to develop products that meet the cultural preferences and beauty needs of women and men around the globe.

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Beauty basics to help you embrace autumn

2009-08-25T05:57:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Fall is a time of transition. Not only do you need to prepare your skin for the cold months ahead, but it’s time to transform your look from light and airy to soft and classic.

Focus on a few beauty basics – skin, make-up, fashion and fragrance – and you’ll have all you need for a fantastic fall.

Great skin is always in
As the weather gets cooler and drier, your skin needs extra moisture to keep it supple. Keep warm weather memories alive with a scent reminiscent of summer and try Coconut Milk Body Lotion from The Body Shop. Treat yourself to the finest ingredients – ethically sourced community trade virgin coconut oil from Samoa – and get soft, smooth and deliciously scented skin.

Pucker up
Autumn lips are washed in soft color. International make-up artist Chase Aston says this fall is all about the perfect pout and recommends Colourglide Lip Color from The Body Shop.

Aston shares his tips for luscious and gorgeous lips:
* Use a lip liner for added definition and to help prevent feathering.
* Enhance the natural color of your lips by gently gliding on lip color. For added pout power, use a lipstick/concealer brush.
* Look for a shade that complements your skin tone. With 37 shades, you can easily find Colourglide Lip Color that works for you.

Ultra-modern eyes
This fall, dramatic smoldering eyes are what’s fabulous.

To achieve fall’s hottest eye looks, Aston gives these sizzling tips:
* Smudge together forest green, shimmering grey and lilac to create a chic, modern, smoky eye.
* To create an intense, sultry eye look, look for a palette that features a warm trio of rich brown, golden copper and shimmering sand hues.
* Try a metallic eye definer. Alone, it can be used to line and define or use it to complement your favorite eye shadow. “Choose shades that contrast your eyes to make them pop,” says Aston. “Apply color to the eyelid or along the lash-line as an accent for impact.”

Bundle up
Classic, “back to basics” clothing was all the rage on the fall runways. This season’s must-have piece is the crisp white jacket that works with everything from jeans to a little black dress. The key accessory to sport is perfectly fitting with the chill in the air – gloves. Half gloves, fingerless gloves and long gloves are gracing the arms of starlets walking the red carpet and go with everything from rugged parkas to dainty and ladylike skirts. If you’ve got a special occasion to dress for, or if you’re just plain feeling glam, the gold dress, inspired by the rich tones of autumn, is the choice for your holiday parties.

For more information on fall beauty basics, visit TheBodyShop-USA.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Hanes(R) and Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R) Inspire Creativity for a Cause

2009-08-18T04:42:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Hanes has launched a T-shirt design competition offering the chance to combine creativity with passion for a most worthy cause - Susan G. Komen for the Cure . Through Oct. 26, 2009, participants can enter Passionately Pink-inspired T-shirt designs with messages of hope, love and support for the chance to win a weekly drawing for a $100 Hanes gift card. In addition, a grand-prize winner will receive a $250 Hanes gift card and a screen-printed copy of the winning T-shirt design. Hanes will also make a $5,000 donation in the grand-prize winner's name to the winner's choice of Susan G. Komen for the Cure local Affiliate or Komen Global Headquarters.

This year, Hanes became the Official Apparel Sponsor of Passionately Pink for the Cure, a fund-raising program created by Komen for the Cure that inspires breast cancer advocacy and honors those affected by the disease. Hanes is donating $250,000 ($100,000 in cash and $150,000 in kind) to Komen for the Cure. In June 2009, public service announcements dedicated to breast cancer awareness began airing featuring actress Sarah Chalke (Hanes spokesperson and star of the television show "Scrubs" and mini series "Maneater"). Chalke also will attend Komen events and will host her own "Passionately Pink" parties with her sisters and friends.

Beginning today, Hanes will also offer a special "pink collection" of panties, bras, socks and graphic tees (including one T-shirt exclusively designed by Chalke), and has created a campaign Web site, www.hanespink.com, that features interactive content to inspire people to make a difference in the breast cancer support community. The Hanes contribution will help fund Komen's breast cancer research and community outreach efforts. The Hanes "pink collection," including Chalke's T-shirt, is now available on www.hanes.com and will be in select stores in September.

About the Competition

The design competition will be hosted on the campaign Web site, www.hanespink.com. Visitors can design virtual Passionately Pink T-shirts using a variety of tools and graphics provided on the site, including a text function that will allow users to convey a tribute message or a personal note. Once the digital T-shirt is submitted, consumers will complete an online form to be entered into the promotion for the chance to turn their virtual creation into a screen-printed tee.

"The Hanes Passionately Pink T-shirt design competition will mobilize and encourage people to join the fight against breast cancer while allowing them to express their passion in an individualized way, providing comfort to those who need it most," remarked Sidney Falken, SVP/Hanes brand.

Each week throughout the contest, the first 30 participants will receive a T-shirt from actress Sarah Chalke, who has kicked off the competition with her own Hanes T-shirt design which includes the words "courage and strength" above her signature and features pink hearts alongside the iconic pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness.

"I am so excited to kick off the Hanes Passionately Pink for the Cure design competition and be a part of an amazingly dedicated network. Awareness is the best prevention and this program encourages people from across the country to join the fight against breast cancer in a truly meaningful way," remarked Chalke. "The pink Hanes T-shirt I designed was inspired by my personal connection to cancer."

Twelve weekly winners will be selected based on pre-determined criteria including representation of campaign theme, creativity, originality and online votes. Finalists will be announced on November 11, 2009, and will receive a $100 Hanes gift card. Beginning Nov. 11, 2009, through Nov. 25, 2009, 12 finalists will be featured on www.hanespink.com where visitors can vote on their favorite designs. The grand prize winner, who will be announced on or about Dec. 7, 2009, will designate either Komen Global Headquarters or a local Komen for the Cure Affiliate to receive a $5,000 donation made in his or her name by Hanes. The grand prize winner will also receive a $250 Hanes gift card and a screen-printed copy of their winning design on a Hanes T-shirt.

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ChiliPad™ Reduces Severity of Hot Flashes in Menopausal Women

2009-08-18T03:49:00.000-07:00

GBB Note: Ahhhh... A cool bed and a good night's sleep? Delightful idea.

(BUSINESS WIRE)--For many women, the word "menopause" means living with innumerable symptoms which can alter the course of their lives. Menopause affects nearly 40 million women in the United States and while it is a natural time of physical and emotional change, it can also be a time of confusion and worry. Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, irritability, low libido, and depression. Hot Flashes are the most common symptom experienced by menopausal women.

ChiliPad™, a revolutionary mattress pad with both heating and cooling functions, reduces the severity of hot flashes by allowing consumers to adjust the entire surface of their bed to the desired temperature. ChiliPad cools and warms a bed from 48 to 118 degrees F.

"Often if a room is too cold for one person it is too warm for the other,” said Todd Youngblood, president and co-founder, ChiliTechnology, LLC. “Some couples resort to opening windows or turning on the AC all night to stay cool. Instead of cooling the whole house to get a comfortable night's sleep, you can just cool the bed. This is especially helpful for women experiencing hot flashes and night sweats or anyone who just needs to cool their body down to get a good night’s sleep.”

According to the National Sleep Foundation, about 61 percent of menopausal women suffer from some kind of sleep disorder. Sleep is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, allowing the mind to rest and reorganize before the next day's events; menopausal women who are having trouble sleeping feel the effects in every part of their lives.

“When having hot flashes, it's hard to fool Mother Nature,” said Karen Giblin, president, Red Hot Mamas. “Hot flashes and night sweats affect 75-85% of women. Women feel intense heat, get flushed, perspire, and they may get uncomfortably wet during the night. This may cause them to awaken and the next day they may feel fatigued and moody. Good news gals, we now have a product that can fool Mother Nature. The new product is the ChiliPad which gives some of us a new lease on menopausal life. So, as the temperatures soars in your bed at night, and you are tossing and turning feeling that greenhouse effect when those hot flashes and night sweats strike, all you have to now do is to turn on your ChiliPad. Your bed will stay cool and you will be more comfortable during the night."

The ChiliPad can be used 12 months out of the year to keep the bed cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Anyone suffering from menopause, injury or illness where cooling the body down or warming it up helps, benefits from a ChiliPad. To learn more about ChiliPad and how it is being used by consumers, please contact Jane Westgate at 336-209-9276 or via e-mail pr@chilitechnology.com.

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Watching Your Bottom Line

2009-08-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-Staying true to your style budget is an increasingly smart idea, and there are a few clever ways you can watch your bottom line.

Recessionistas know that it pays to invest in classic pieces and dress them up with a few trend-smart favorites to keep current. Here are a few examples of this season's must-haves:

• Flats. Patent metallic flats work with so many different outfits. Embellished ballet flats add a feminine touch.

• A large bag. A large, polished-leather satchel or antique tapestry bag can supply the look and offer a practical advantage for carrying everyday essentials.

• Belts. A large belt with heavy metal studs fits well with this season's gladiator look and can help define a variety of daytime outfits. For a more sophisticated evening look, choose a belt with sparkle.

• Natural jewelry. When buying jewelry, think natural. Opt for a rustic turquoise bracelet or a necklace of polished river stones.

• Cinch it. Need a dress for a date? Consider a flirty number with a cinched waist.

• Fitted skirts. For dates or daytime, nothing says trendy now like a fitted, knee-length skirt.

• Smoothers, toners, tights. When watching the bottom line of your fashion budget, don't skimp on smoothers and shapers that shape up your bottom line. The right first layer can make everything that follows look so much better.

L'eggs Profiles® Smoothers, Toners and Tights, with or without hosiery, help smooth and shape hips, tummy and thighs to enhance the way you look when wearing the season's must-haves.

It's always a good idea to shop and compare prices. With their smooth shape and slim price, the L'eggs Profiles line can help shape your bottom line. The line can be conveniently purchased at many mass and drug retail locations for under $9.

The right smoothers and toners can even help you shop in your own closet. They could help you fit into that classic skirt that has gotten a little snug.

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Fall fashion trends – expert advice from those who know

2009-08-13T02:27:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Looking for insight into what your college student wants to wear to school this fall? Want them to fit in with their peers, but still look respectable? Want to know the secrets to saving a buck?

The fashion design and fashion merchandising students and instructors at The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale offer some advice and insight on fall fashion trends.

“Global cultures influence the colorful mosaic of fall ’09, creating a new universal attitude,” says fashion design instructor at The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, Chelsea Rousso. “Through a mixture of motifs, layering occurs, allowing for uniqueness and individuality. Deep ethnic colors and patterns are appearing on scarves, skirts and knit dresses worn over leggings or textured tights. These ‘boho’ looks capture the relaxed approach to the easy-does-it mind-set.”

Rousso, who is currently writing a book on fashion forecasting, has more than 20 years experience as a designer and design director in the New York fashion world, including Datiani. As business in the early ‘90s was changing, she developed the concept for an artisan-inspired collection called Earth Song, clothing with natural and earthy appeal that was sold to stores and catalogs throughout the United States. “I am now committed to ‘giving back’ through teaching,” she says.

Recent graduates of The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale Fashion programs have their own opinions on fall fashion. “College students think about finding themselves,” says Karlee Smith, who received a bachelor’s of science degree in fashion merchandising and immediately went to work at the VF Corporation in Atlanta, Ga., as Vassarette merchandiser. “In essence, they create their own trends. At least most do who care to be unique. Even if they are on a budget, college students can find affordable clothes and accessories at places like Forever 21, Zara and Express.”

Smith’s classmate Elana Bloom concurs with making your own fashion statements and that college students care about their clothes. “I do think college students still think about fashion when they dress for class. Although, I do not think fashion is what is determined in their mind when they are shopping for their class attire,” she says. Comfort, convenience and chic are ideal for a college student who faces long days schelpping books, laptops, and other college necessities. Let’s face it, can a girl walk up three flights of stairs in 4-inch platforms and make it without breaking a sweat or falling?

“Today less is more and being chic is not being bedazzled or wearing ultra tight clothing,” Bloom adds. “It is about accessorizing your bamboo cotton sweat outfit. Attraction is all in the hair, makeup and the accessories. Who has time to put together a three-piece outfit at 6 a.m. for an 8 a.m. class? Throw on a comfy cute sweat suit by Pink Lotus or a cotton maxi dress by Lani, Havianas sandals, beaded bracelets, sunnies and a quick blow dry to the hair and you’re ready to go.”

Rousso agrees that when it comes to accessorizing, students are keen. “They are adding interest to their outfits by using bright pops of color to a neutral palette of black and grey,” she says. “From shoes to sweaters or necklaces to handbags, the intense hues are adding color excitement. Crimson red, associated with strength, desire and power is being worn by girls and guys in jackets, bags and accessories.“

Jeans – a college fashion staple – are also getting an updated look this season. Ruosso continues, “The looks for denim this season include skinny jean silhouettes along with more relaxed shapes that are cinched at the ankle – often tucked into gladiator sandals or boots. Denim is light in color, distressed and embellished with studs and embroideries – a flashback to the ‘80s.”

Bloom also suggests Nordstrom’s B.P section and Target as places to find affordable accessories. “Wide headbands or scarves used as headbands, chunky beads and rings, and fun play jewelry embellish any outfit. I also think everyone should accessorize with a nice manicure and pedicure. This always gives a mini makeover.”

Both Bloom and Smith share more than their fashionable interests. They were the first two high school teens to win full scholarships in The Art Institutes Passion for Fashion Competition in 2006. They decided that Fort Lauderdale was the shared destination to pursue their design and merchandising goals. They met for the first time in New York at the scholarship presentation and have been making news ever since.

Smith is originally from Simi Valley, Calif., and a graduate of South Forsyth High School, in Cumming, Ga. Bloom, of Boca Raton, Fla., is a graduate of Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, Fla.

To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

The Art Institutes (www.artinstitutes.edu) is a system of over 40 education institutions located throughout North America, providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary arts professionals.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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U.S. Marshals Seize Skin Sanitizer, Protectant Products Made by Clarcon Biological Chemical Laboratory Inc.

2009-08-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

U.S. Marshals, at the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, have seized all skin sanitizers and skin protectants, including ingredients and components, at Clarcon Biological Chemistry Laboratory’s Roy, Utah facility. The FDA is also warning consumers not to use any Clarcon products because they contain harmful bacteria and are promoted as antimicrobial agents that claim to treat open wounds, damaged skin, and protect against various infectious diseases. No cases have been reported to the FDA.

Clarcon voluntarily recalled the affected products, marketed under several different brand names, in June 2009, following an FDA inspection that revealed high levels of potentially disease-causing bacteria in the products.

The inspection also uncovered serious deviations from the FDA’s Current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations, including poor practices that permitted the contamination. The FDA’s seizure of these products, along with their ingredients and any in-process or bulk materials, occurred after Clarcon did not agree to promptly destroy them. The FDA is protecting the public by preventing these products from entering the marketplace.

“The FDA is committed to taking enforcement action against firms that do not manufacture drugs in accordance with our current good manufacturing practice requirements,” said Deborah M. Autor, director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research Office of Compliance. “We will remain vigilant in our efforts to protect consumers from defective products.”

Clarcon produced and distributed over 800,000 bottles of these products in multiple regions of the country since 2007. Consumers should not use any Clarcon products and should dispose of them in their household trash.

Analyses of several samples of the topical antimicrobial skin sanitizer and skin protectant products revealed high levels of various bacteria. Some of these bacteria can cause opportunistic infections of the skin and underlying tissues. Such infections may need medical or surgical attention and may result in permanent damage. Examples of products that should be discarded are:

Citrushield Lotion
Dermasentials DermaBarrier
Dermassentials by Clarcon Antimicrobial Hand Sanitizer
Iron Fist Barrier Hand Treatment
Skin Shield Restaurant
Skin Shield Industrial
Skin Shield Beauty Salon Lotion
Total Skin Care Beauty
Total Skin Care Work

Health care professionals and consumers may report serious adverse events or product quality problems with the use of this product to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, or by regular mail, fax, or phone.
--Online
--Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 and mail to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
--Fax: 800-FDA-0178
--Phone: 800-FDA-1088

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Clinique launches New Vitamin C Lip Smoothie Antioxidant Lip Colour

2009-07-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

/24-7/ -- Clinique is launching a new innovation in lip gloss to help protect and defend delicate lips. Bursting with antioxidant ingredients, Clinique introduces new Vitamin C Lip Smoothie Antioxidant Lip Colour, a healthy dose of luscious colour in six juicy shades, rich in moisture and shine, like an antioxidant fruit smoothie for the lips.

Combining the high shine and super moisturising aspects of a lip gloss with the rich, stay-true colour and buildable coverage of a lipstick, the beauty experts at Clinique have developed this revolutionary new lip product.

The new formulation has taken powerful, 'good for you' ingredients and squeezed them into a gorgeous, colourful lip product with treatment benefits. Over time lips become vulnerable to lines and wrinkles and can become thinner and drier while also losing some of their colour. This vitamin packed formula is enriched with a cocktail of ingredients, including the key antioxidants, Açaí Berry and Pomegranate to help protect against environmental aggressors and Vitamin C to improve the look and feel of lips instantly and over time. Whilst a decadent blend of rich butters such as Shea Butter provide comfort, moisture and soothing benefits and help put the smooth in to Lip Smoothie.

To finish the fresh, healthy look High Impact Curling Mascara can be applied, along with a Quick Blush to cheeks for a naturally blushed look.

New Vitamin C Lip Smoothie Antioxidant Lip Colour is available in six lip-quenching, yet water-resistant, juicy shades ranging from opaque to shimmery: Fig-a-licious, Raisin the Bar, Pink Me Up, Nude-tricious, Goodness Grapecious and Rhubarbie.

The new Vitamin C Lip Smoothie Antioxidant Lip Colour will be available at Clinique counters nationwide from 1 August 2009.

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Go Ahead, Indulge! Investing In Yourself

2009-07-14T05:45:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-In times of economic uncertainty, there is one thing you should always invest in…yourself!

A March 2009 survey conducted by Survey.com found that 80 percent of women said that when they look good, they feel good. So especially during hard economic times, women try to look their best, and 79 percent said using beauty products is a way to pamper themselves without spending a lot of money.

Celebrity stylist Hallie Bowman offers advice to help women outshine the recession by looking and feeling their best.

"Right now it is all about shiny, voluminous hair," says Bowman. "The sharp and defiant shapes of past seasons have now transitioned into full waves and soft, bouncy bends."

Hallie's Tips to Get the Look...

• Start with clean, freshly shampooed and conditioned hair. Hallie recommends using products from the Pantene Pro-V Full & Thick collection because they protect hair against damage and help create fullness at the roots by reviving limp strands for a full, healthy look.

• Spray a root-lifter gel into wet roots before blow-drying.

• While blow-drying, periodically flip your head forward to help create fullness. While your head is forward, give your roots a shot of cool air to really amp up the volume.

• After drying each section, while hair is still warm, set hair into Velcro rollers.

• Once all hair has been set, keep rollers in for at least 10 minutes.

• Remove rollers and brush hair from roots to ends.

• To polish off the look, apply a smoothing serum from midshaft to tips for a healthy shine.

When you don't have money to invest in a new outfit, a new hairstyle is the perfect way to indulge! This look can upgrade even the most casual of outfits, leaving you looking put-together and feeling beautiful.

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Start The School Year Right With A Fresh Face

2009-07-08T12:38:00.001-07:00

(NAPSI)-Let's face facts. As millions of teenagers get ready to head back to school, they may be hoping for the same thing: a fresh start and a fresh face.

Unfortunately, almost all teenagers experience at least an occasional whitehead, blackhead or pimple. Research shows stress from breakouts, coupled with the stress of returning to school, can have profound psychological effects on teenage acne patients. In fact, the recent Skin Matters Survey, conducted by Harris Interactive, found that 70 percent of teenagers feel pressure to have clear skin, and 60 percent of teenage girls think acne negatively affects their self-confidence.

Despite the availability of improved, effective acne treatments, teens continue to suffer from the negative impact that acne can have on social relationships and quality of life. The same survey determined less than half of teens (44 percent) feel knowledgeable about skin care and only 14 percent of teens with acne have seen a dermatologist specifically for their acne.

For teens, getting rid of embarrassing acne can be just as time consuming as picking out an outfit for the first day of school, so it's important to know how to avoid that breakout before it happens, and what to do if it does.

Acne is unique to every individual. The good news is that today, there are many effective treatments that can help clear up virtually every type of acne and prevent new breakouts, so it's important to visit a dermatologist who can collaborate with you on a targeted skin care regimen. This regimen may include a prescription-strength treatment, such as a topical retinoid, which goes deep down to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Retin-A Micro is the only acne medication with patented microspheres that contain tretinoin, the No. 1 prescribed retinoid by dermatologists. Microspheres help absorb excess oil, reduce facial shine and protect against irritation. Available in a unique and sleek pump, Retin-A Micro Pump delivers a consistent amount of medication with each use, making treatment easy. For full prescribing information, visit www.RetinAMicro.com.

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Summertime protection for mom and baby -- inside and out

2009-06-26T05:58:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Whether you're relaxing beachside on vacation, picnicking in the park or strolling through the neighborhood, warm weather offers many opportunities for outdoor fun. However, these activities can lead to dehydration, sunburn and fatigue if you're not careful. Barbara Dehn, women's health nurse practitioner and award-winning author, offers tips to keep mom and baby safe all summer long.

“Mom and baby both need extra protection in the months following birth, especially during the summer season,” says Dehn. “By following a few simple guidelines, the entire family can enjoy summer outings and activities together."

Dehn suggests protecting yourself and your little one with these tips:

Practice sun protection -- If sun exposure is unavoidable, don’t forget to shield yourself and your little one with a hat and sunblock to guard against powerful UVA and UVB rays. Make sure to use a baby-safe sunblock with a high SPF that has no artificial colors or unnecessary chemical additives.

Stay nourished -- It is important to maintain your overall health, especially in the heat. Sufficient hydration is essential because a lack of fluids can cause heat exhaustion and improper digestion. Moms should also increase their intake of foods that are high in protein as well as those that contain natural liquids to improve energy and emotional state, and prevent dehydration. Best bets include dark green vegetables, juicy fruits, eggs and almonds.

For babies who are using infant formula, you can choose one that is designed to support your baby's natural defenses and digestive health. For example, Similac Advance EarlyShield is specially designed to support your baby’s developing immune system. It’s the only formula that has the EarlyShield blend of prebiotics, nucleotides and antioxidants -- nutrients found naturally in breast milk.

Refocus and recenter -- Summertime is meant to be carefree. Allow yourself some alone time to unwind. Have your partner or a friend watch the baby so you can focus on yourself. Keeping a journal is a simple way to organize your thoughts and help examine your emotions. Help baby relax, too. Set aside time to give your newborn a massage. Massaging enhances the emotional bond with your baby, improves sleep patterns, aids with digestion, boosts immunity, helps fight disease and calms your baby.

Rest up -- Hot temperatures during the summer months can cause fatigue. Nap time is not just for your little one. Force yourself to drop chores and nap while the baby does. Use a lavender-scented eye mask to get maximum rest and awaken refreshed. For baby, start a consistent bedtime routine as early as possible. Sing lullabies, read books, give a warm bath or rock in a rocking chair to help trigger bedtime.

Following these simple tips will help ensure a safe and happy summer for both you and your baby. For more information, visit www.earlyshield.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Dress for success and comfort at work

2009-06-23T06:11:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Wondering what to wear at the office as the temperature climbs this summer? Fashion experts at The Art Institutes have some words to live by when dressing for success at your workplace.

"There are many ways to incorporate summer's hottest trends into your office wardrobe without compromising your professional credibility," says Marlise Vance, senior instructor in Fashion Merchandising at The Art Institute of Ohio - Cincinnati. "Using color, accessories and patterns can bring a summer feel to your work ensembles, even if the pieces themselves are traditional office conservative. A bright tank or cami under a jacket, a colorful patterned skirt or fashion-forward shoes can make a big impact."

"Black is never out of style," says Stephanie Taylor, academic director of Fashion Marketing and Management at The Art Institute of Charlotte. "A great idea is to pair a black suit with fresh colors such as lime green, hot pink or yellow."

Some of the hottest trends this summer include a more do-it-yourself kind of attitude. "The big trend this summer is that there is no big trend. Instead of going out and buying a trendy new outfit, recycle and reuse the clothes you do have," says Taylor.

As part of this do-it-yourself kind of season, however, there are essentials every woman may want to purchase when dressing for the office.

"Accessories are an essential part of the dress code, and summer can be a good time to try a new scarf or bracelet," says Thomas Liddy, apparel design instructor at The Art Institute of Portland.

Cardigans are another great buy.

"Women want to invest in a great cardigan this summer," says Mike Watson, Fashion Marketing and Management instructor at The Art Institute of Charlotte. "A cardigan is great because you can wear it over a sleeveless shirt or dress, and then take it off when you leave work."

He adds, "If I had to tell women to buy one thing for the summer, I would tell them to buy a white skirt or pants."

"Think about your overall look throughout the day," says Patricia Crockett, Apparel Design instructor at The Art Institute of Portland. "If you choose to wear a lower-cut top or camisole underneath your blazer, ask yourself if you'll really wear the blazer or sweater all day. If the answer is no, choose another top that will complement your outfit and look work-appropriate on its own."

What's underneath your outfit also is crucial to your being dressed for success.

"Appropriate undergarments are essential," says Julie Hengle, academic director for the Fashion Merchandising and Interior Design programs at The Art Institute of Ohio - Cincinnati. "There is nothing less professional than an unsuitable foundation piece."

Common sense goes a long way, she elaborates. "Though it should go without saying, it bears repeating and reemphasizing: There should never be an occasion in the workplace when your co-workers can discern anything about your underwear. If you want to be taken seriously and judged for your work, not your wardrobe, then make good choices in proper undergarments."

"What you wear to the office in the summer should always be one step removed from what you wear to an after-work event such as a date or cocktail party," says Vance. "That means there should be something you either add, such as trendy accessories like jewelry or shoes, or something you can remove, like a jacket or sweater."

Along with the essential "Dos" come absolute "Don'ts." According to the fashion experts at The Art Institutes, one should follow these rules in the office, no matter how high the temperature climbs outside:

* No tube tops or halter tops.

* No flip-flops or gladiator sandals.

* Never go braless and be careful not to show too much cleavage.

* No minis: Skirts should fall at or below the knee.

* Don't go sleeveless -- cover bare arms with that cardigan.

* If you wear open toe-shoes, make sure you have a pedicure.

* And, men: Never go sockless.

"Make sure skirts are office-appropriate, which includes length," says Crockett. "Because women bare their legs in summer, skirts should be closer to the knee. In winter, skirts can be shorter because women wear dark hosiery underneath."

For men, there also are appropriate ways to transition to warm weather summer attire.

"Men obviously have fewer options than women when it comes to changing their wardrobe for summer time." Watson says. "But what they can do is change from dark, heavy clothes to light clothes. For more fashion-forward companies it is perfectly acceptable to wear short-sleeved European dress shirts to work."

Liddy adds, "If your office culture allows jeans, pair them with a lightweight blazer. Ties can also be worn more loosely to achieve a great summer look."

No matter what, both men and women should "resist the urge to dress down for summer," says Liddy. "Save the strappy sandals for evening and the sports sandals for the weekend."

To learn more about The Art Institutes system of schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Bright Ways To Deter Sun Damage

2009-06-20T02:01:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-On the one hand, exposure to the sun's rays induces the production of vitamin D in the skin, promoting calcium absorption and even protecting against the development of cancer. On your hair, however, sunlight can have a dulling effect.

Here are hints to help you take advantage of the sun's healthful properties while saving your hair and skin:

• Skin Protection: Overexposure to UV radiation can cause sunburn and some forms of skin cancer; however, it can also cause direct DNA damage and affect the immune system. Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that melanoma cases on the scalp or neck are twice as deadly as melanoma elsewhere on the body. To help protect against scalp burning and peeling, use a scalp product with SPF such as Nioxin Scalp Shield Sunblock with SPF 20. This product is carefully formulated to protect sensitive scalp skin, blocking UVA and UVB rays, and it doesn't clog pores or leave a sticky residue.

• Hair Protection: Exposure to summer elements can take a toll on your hair, which can lead to color fade, dryness and cuticle separation. Use a clarifying shampoo regularly to eliminate buildup of oil, chlorine and salt water. Additionally, try using a daily leave-in conditioner before heading to the beach or pool. Hair is porous like a sponge and will soak up less water if saturated with conditioner.

• Hair Color Protection: UV rays can destroy melanin and color molecules in the hair, causing it to dry out and fade…a frustrating experience for those concerned about making color services last. To help protect against damage and safeguard your investment, use styling products that contain UV filters for added protection and moisture. Shine-enhancing sprays can also add sheen by creating a glossy surface that reflects light.

For more hair care tips and tricks, visit your hair care professional for advice that is suited to your lifestyle.

You don't have to let the sun take the shine out of your hair if you heed a few hints.

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Nordstrom Rack to Open at Buckhead Station in Atlanta, Georgia

2009-06-17T15:43:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Seattle-based Nordstrom, Inc. (NYSE:JWN) , a leading fashion specialty retailer, announced it will open a 38,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack, a unit of the company's off-price retail division, at Buckhead Station shopping center in Atlanta, Ga. in spring 2010.

"We're excited about the opportunity to open our doors in Atlanta at Buckhead Station," said Scott Meden, president of Nordstrom Rack. "We hope customers will give us a chance to earn their business at this outstanding new location."

This will be the retailer's second Nordstrom Rack in the greater Atlanta area joining Nordstrom Rack at Mall of Georgia Crossing in Buford, Ga. The company also operates several Nordstrom stores in the area, including a store at Mall of Georgia in Buford, and Phipps Plaza and Perimeter Mall in Atlanta.

"We are delighted Nordstrom Rack will be opening a store at Buckhead Station," said Jeff Olson, CEO of Equity One. "Nordstrom's reputation for high quality merchandise will serve as a great consumer magnet, benefiting the existing tenants in the center tremendously."

Buckhead Station is a 234,000 square-foot shopping center located at One Buckhead Loop adjacent to a full interchange of Georgia Highway 400 in the city of Atlanta. In addition to Nordstrom Rack, the center is occupied by a strong line-up of retailers including TJ Maxx, Old Navy, Toys "R" Us, Bed Bath and Beyond, DSW and Ulta 3. The upscale Buckhead community is home to numerous high-rise office buildings, hotels, shopping centers and two regional malls.

Nordstrom Rack carries merchandise from Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com at 50-60% off original Nordstrom prices. Nordstrom Rack also offers an incredible selection of brand-name apparel, accessories and shoes for the entire family--from many of the same hot vendors carried in Nordstrom stores--purchased specially for Nordstrom Rack, with most at savings of 30-70% off.

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6 summer wardrobe essentials every woman needs

2009-06-16T06:23:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Are the warm rays of the sun inspiring your inner fashionista? Summer is the perfect season to jazz up your wardrobe with fun and fashionable items that make you look great. But how do you know where to start in a fashion world that offers endless possibilities?

When it comes down to it, there are some things that every woman should have in her wardrobe. Here are the top six items that will make you look like you stepped out of a fashion magazine this summer:

1. Sunglasses
A good set of shades is an essential that is fashionable and functional. Helping protect your eyes from the sun's harsh rays, sunglasses can also provide a fun summer look. What types never go out of style? Some options with fashion-longevity include aviator glasses (also known as pilot shades) that have metal frames and reflective lenses, as well as over-sized options often seen on celebrities.

2. Shawl
Having a fun colored wrap or shawl can serve multiple purposes throughout the summer. For example, pashmina-style shawls offer a look that is appropriate as a shoulder wrap at a wedding, but also could be tied around the waist as an impromptu cover-up at the beach. Are you chilled? It can add a bit of warmth. Is it too sunny? It provides protection from sunburn. Really, it provides style and function for just about any situation summer can throw at you, plus it's small enough to be stashed away in a bag if not needed.

3. Pearl necklace
Pearls are the quintessential summer accessory for many reasons. They remind us of the water and are produced by nature, plus, they are the traditional birth stone for June. The best part of having pearls in your wardrobe is their versatility -- they add style to your ribbed tank and jean outfit or jazz up your black dress for a night on the town. Want to truly add some summer pizzazz? PearlParadise.com notes that pearls in fun colors like pink, gold, blue and lavender are popular during the summer season, as well as unique shapes like baroque, drop and keshi Tahitian pearls.

4. Strappy sandals
Whether heeled or flat, show off those toes with a great pair of strappy sandals. Open shoes look great and help keep your body temperature down during hot summer days. Colored leather straps are popular and stylish during the summer season, but you can also find options in natural woven materials. Having a couple pair isn't a bad idea -- maybe one flat and one high-heel, or one casual and one dressier. Whatever route you go, you'll be sure to get use out of these the entire season.

5. Earrings
Earrings bring focus to the face and enhance a person's eyes. That's why so many people feel "naked" if they don't have earrings on. For summer, opt for pearl or stone earrings -- or better yet, a combo of both. According to Pearl-Guide.com, Akoya Pearls are very popular for use in jewelry because of their consistently round shape. Studs, drop-downs and drop-downs with diamond accents are all great summertime options. When the sun hits them, your face will sparkle with true style.

6. Wide-brim hat
A good hat can be a great addition to your favorite summer dress and also be your best friend on a sunny day at the beach. Wide-brimmed hats are popular during the summer time because of their style and how they protect the face from wrinkle-inducing rays. A straight, stiff brim often made from natural fibers like raffia or straw provides a more formal, tailored look. Flexible, shapeable brims often made of cotton or linen have a more casual feel.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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FDA Warns Consumers Not to Use Skin Products Made by Clarcon Due to Bacterial Contamination Risk

2009-06-09T05:30:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced June 8 that Clarcon Biological Chemistry Laboratory Inc. of Roy, Utah, is voluntarily recalling some skin sanitizers and skin protectants marketed under several different brand names because of high levels of disease-causing bacteria found in the product during a recent inspection. The FDA is warning consumers to not use any Clarcon products.

Consumers should not use any Clarcon products and should throw these products away in household refuse. Analyses of several samples of over-the-counter topical antimicrobial skin sanitizer and skin protectant products revealed high levels of various bacteria, including some associated with unsanitary conditions. Some of these bacteria can cause opportunistic infections of the skin and underlying tissues. Such infections may need medical or surgical attention, and may result in permanent damage. Examples of products that should be discarded include:

Citrushield Lotion

Dermasentials DermaBarrier

Dermassentials by Clarcon Antimicrobial Hand Sanitizer

Iron Fist Barrier Hand Treatment

Skin Shield Restaurant

Skin Shield Industrial

Skin Shield Beauty Salon Lotion

Total Skin Care Beauty

Total Skin Care Work

Findings from the FDA’s recent inspection of the Clarcon facility are particularly concerning because the products are promoted as antimicrobial agents that claim to treat open wounds, damaged skin, and protect against various infectious diseases. The inspection uncovered serious deviations from FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practice requirements.

Health care professionals and consumers may report serious adverse events (side effects) or product quality problems with the use of this product to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail, fax or phone.

--Online
--Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 and mail to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
--Fax: 800-FDA-0178
--Phone: 800-FDA-1088

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Hair's Colorful Past 100 Years

2009-06-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-Whether you perceive beauty as an art or a science, you might be surprised to learn that modern hair coloring can trace its roots back to a young French inventor and chemist, Eugène Schueller.

In 1909, Schueller founded "The Safe Hair Dye Company of France"-later renamed L'Oréal. With this in mind, here's a look back at some of the biggest milestones in hair trends over the past 100 years:

1900-1909--During this time, hair was worn under hats by most women, and styles were simple. In 1907, Mr. Schueller launched "Auréale," the first safe hair dye. With this revolutionary invention, a new chapter in beauty began. For the first time, women could color their hair with consistent and safe results.

1910-1919--This decade welcomed the birth of modern hairdressing. Women began working in the industrial sector and the war imposed a somber style. In 1918, the number of hair salons in Paris-the epicenter of fashion and beauty-more than quintupled, from about 300 to more than 2,000.

1920-1929--Short hairstyles were still in vogue. In 1925, multiple coloring products became available, allowing men and women to change their hair color on a whim. Some favorites of the decade included L'Oréal D'Or, the first bleaching product designed to give hair a sun-kissed look, and lmédia, an ultrafast hair dye.

1930-1939--Supershort cuts were quickly replaced with long, luxurious hairstyles, and Hollywood stars like Jean Harlow influenced millions of brunettes to change their shade to glamorous blond. Hair coloring became a true mark of glamour, and the introduction of the first modern-day shampoo, which L'Oréal introduced under the DOP brand, allowed women to keep their tresses looking lovely.

1950-1959--Without the constraints of war, glamour became popular again and women wanted their hair to look stylish even while completing household chores. Hair was teased, sculpted, waved and set. In 1952, another revolutionizing product, L'Oréal's Régé Color, became the first hair dye to be used in hair salons and sold to the public for at-home use, dramatically expanding the hair color market.

1960-1969--ANYTHING went when it came to hair: long, short, styled, rebellious and beyond. To keep any hairstyle in place without a stiff and sticky finish, L'Oréal's Elnett fine mist hair spray-a favorite still today-became available for sale in 1960.

1980-1989--Women's lives became increasingly active, as more women entered the workforce than ever before. Hairstyles reflected the control of their busy work life and social schedule. Cuts were precise and grooming followed the "power" culture. The L'Oréal-Stu Stu Stu-Studio Line was at the forefront of hair-styling and introduced the first aerosol hair mousse. Sales of styling products rose dramatically as men and women looked to create their own individual style.

1990-1999--This era welcomed a more natural-looking hair color and products attempted to match the highlights and low lights that nature provided. Diacolor, tone-on-tone, covered the gray with a shade that was closer to the natural hair color.

2000 and beyond-Hairstyles today reflect a desire for individuality. There are more styling tools, gels, waxes, pastes, sprays, mousses and products formulated specifically for curly, straight, frizzy, wavy, dry, color-treated or damaged hair to help people achieve a desired look. Since the turn of the century, L'Oréal has developed products for use in salons or at home to help men and women achieve the style they want. This year, the company celebrates its 100th anniversary, and has come a long way from the first permanent hair dye to a range of hair care, hair color, cosmetics, skin care and fragrance products. To mark this milestone, the company has launched a limited edition 100th anniversary Elnett hair spray, available exclusively at Target while supplies last. For more information about L'Oréal, visit www.loreal.com.

© L'Oréal DR

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The Business of Fashion … Issues & Answers Part II

2009-06-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

Thursday, June 4
7:00 -9 p.m.

W Hotel – Buckhead
3377 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30326

Back by popular demand, the Atlanta Fashion Incubator presents its second Issues and Answers Forum for the Atlanta Fashion Industry Entrepreneur. Come hear a diverse group of Atlanta’s renown and emerging fashion entrepreneurs share the struggles and accomplishments of their journey and discuss the viability of Atlanta’s burgeoning fashion industry. Notable and up-and-coming fashion designers and other community members interested in the development of Atlanta’s fashion industry are invited.

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Looking better helps cancer patients feel better

2009-06-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - For Nancy Lumb, one of the hardest parts of having cancer was dealing with the appearance-related side effects of treatment.

"I never cried when I was told I had breast cancer or had to tell my mother and husband," says Lumb. "I only cried when I started to lose my hair. Cancer has a way of robbing you of your femininity."

Enhancing a woman's self-confidence,by giving her the support and tools she needs to manage her changing appearance during cancer treatment provides renewed hope. It gives her the strength she needs to face her treatment and recovery with greater confidence. When women look better, they feel better.

A survey by Look Good…Feel Better -- a national public service program that helps women cope with the appearance-related changes of cancer treatment -- and Harris Interactive found that 86 percent of women in treatment credit looking better with feeling better.

"Now we want women to inspire others by sharing their stories," says Louanne Roark, executive director of Look Good…Feel Better. "We know our workshops have had a tremendous impact on women around the country, and we want to share those encouraging stories with other women.”

The organization, which has helped 650,000 women since it began 20 years ago, is launching a national search to find five women who have been touched by cancer and want to share their stories as a way to help others. These women will be honored as the Women of Hope is Beautiful.

Women affected by cancer can visit www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org to submit their stories of hope, strength and determination. The organization is encouraging entries -- such as essays, poems, pictures, or videos -- that share a personal story of coping with cancer and the impact of the Look Good…Feel Better program. The five women selected will receive a trip to New York and a complimentary makeover. They will also be honored at the organization's annual black-tie gala.

As Lumb explains, "I discovered that I can look as good as I did before I got sick, maybe even better." To read more about her experience or share your own inspiring story, visit www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org.

Look Good…Feel Better is a collaboration between the Personal Care Products Council Foundation, the American Cancer Society and the National Cosmetology Association., and is dedicated to improving the lives of women, men and teens undergoing cancer treatment by offering advice on how to cope with the appearance-related side effects of chemotherapy, radiation and other forms of treatment.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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What You Need To Know About Teen Skin Care

2009-05-30T06:02:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-Parents of teenagers know how difficult it can be for their teen to obtain clear, healthy skin and how much doing so can affect his or her confidence and self-esteem.

The first step to helping teens is knowing the facts. Annet King, Director of Training and Development at The International Dermal Institute and Dermalogica, offers clarity on common myths associated with the unique skin challenges that teens often face.

Myth No. 1: Breakouts mean that skin isn't clean.

Reality: It's actually the opposite, as overcleansing skin with hopes to clear up breakouts only triggers more breakouts by stimulating an overproduction of oil. Overcleansing can cause dryness, which leads to sensitivity and results in fewer protective lipids that keep skin healthy.

Breakouts are blocked follicles, caused by excess dead skin cells, dirt, natural oil production and residue of pore-clogging ingredients such as lanolin and mineral oil.

To get skin clean without over-stripping or clogging pores, try using a foaming wash with salicylic acid, such as Clean Start by Dermalogica Wash Off.

Myth No. 2: All teens need to use to maintain a clear complexion is a basic cleanser and moisturizer.

Reality: Excessive dead skin cells are usually the root of breakouts. Teens should use a mild nonabrasive exfoliant to slough off dead cells, cleanse twice a day with a clay or antibacterial cleanser, and wipe skin with a medicated or hydrating toner, followed by an oil-free moisturizer and sunscreen!

Try products like Clean Start by Dermalogica Welcome Matte SPF 15 or Brighten Up SPF 15.

Myth No. 3: When shopping for skin care products, teens should only buy oil-free products.

Reality: The two most important qualities that teens should look for are products that are non-comedogenic and do not sensitize skin.

• Ingredients to avoid include D & C dyes, isopropyl myristate, lanolin and mineral oil-all pore clogging.

• Good ingredients to look for include salicylic acid (to exfoliate dead skin cells and minimize acne formation) and zinc (an antibacterial that regulates oil).

Myth No 4: Toothpaste dries up breakouts.

Reality: Toothpaste can actually stimulate breakouts on the chin and around the mouth. Toothpaste is for teeth!

Products like Clean Start by Dermalogica Hit the Spot are for breakouts. This concentrated spot treatment helps banish blemishes while controlling future breakout activity.

For more information on how your teen can achieve healthy skin and to learn more about Clean Start by Dermalogica, visit www.cleanstart.dermalogica.com.

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Beauty: Not Just Skin Deep

2009-05-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-Is it really possible to make yourself 20 percent more beautiful by changing the way you look at yourself in the mirror? The answer is yes. Clinical and psychological studies prove that women find themselves 20 percent less attractive than others perceive them. This is because when looking in the mirror, women are not taking into account the personality, charisma, kindness, empathy, intellect or talent that they exhibit to others.

"There are many definitions of beauty and many ways to be beautiful," says Los Angeles based dermatologist and co-author of "The Beauty Prescription," Dr. Debra Luftman. "You cannot alter your genetic makeup, but you can change the way you care for your appearance."

In the book, Dr. Luftman shares practical tips called "beauty boosters." These tips encourage women to feel beautiful inside and out.

Beauty Booster No. 1: Fake It Until You Make It. Eye contact and smiling in social situations are simple ways a woman can enhance the way she looks and feels. However, conveying confidence through body language can be intimidating, especially for women who are emotional sweaters. In fact, one in four women mentions that she worries about excessive underarm wetness, which can affect self-confidence and hinder social interaction. Dr. Luftman suggests a dermatologist-recommended clinical strength antiperspirant/deodorant to combat excessive wetness. "Dove Clinical Protection delivers prescription strength wetness protection without a prescription. It combines 24-hour odor and wetness protection and exceptional skin care benefits to provide women with the ultimate combination of strength and beauty."

Beauty Booster No. 2: Change Is Good. Seek new experiences and keep yourself open to change-enroll in a challenging aerobics class, try a different hair color or cultivate a passion for something new, like gardening or volunteering. Feeling excited about new opportunities and challenges will provide a sense of joy and ultimately enhance your inner beauty.

Beauty Booster No. 3: Stop Obsessing. Negative, self-critical obsessing not only affects women internally, it affects them externally, too. It can often be seen in the form of frowns or other disheartening expressions, which is unattractive on even the most beautiful women. Instead, during interactions, focus on others and think about ways to make them feel good. Offer up a compliment or mention something positive in conversation to help generate positive thinking.

Beauty Booster No. 4: The Eyes Have It. Eyes communicate emotions like no other part of the face, so it is important to care for them. Circles under the eyes are generally caused by an increase in skin pigment or high vein visibility, due to genetics or inflammation. Use cold compresses of green tea bags to help alleviate vascular congestion and inflammation. Then use an eye cream with hyaluronic acid to hydrate sunken eyes and decrease the appearance of crow's-feet.

For more information about why people sweat and products for it, visit doveclincialprotection.com.

Dr. Debra Luftman

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Weighing The Benefits And The Risks Of Hormone Therapy

2009-05-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-To take hormones or not to take hormones? Many menopausal women ponder this question.

There is no doubt that hormones can help relieve menopausal symptoms, but recent studies have highlighted the potential risks of hormone therapy (HT).

In 2002, the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) found that prolonged use of HT with estrogen plus progestin caused a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer, heart disease and strokes. A few years later, a new look at the study suggested that certain younger women taking estrogen might actually have a slightly lowered risk of heart disease.

"Since the results of the WHI were first released in 2002, the public has been bombarded with conflicting information on how to interpret the findings," said Nanette Santoro, M.D., Director of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. "This is a complex issue and patients should participate in continuous open dialogue with their physicians to arrive at treatment decisions best for their individual needs."

Based on the latest research, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that hormone therapy (estrogen plus progestin) be used to relieve the symptoms of menopause at the lowest possible dose and for the shortest amount of time needed to relieve symptoms.

Each woman is a unique individual, so it's important that she discuss the benefits and risks of hormone therapy with her doctor as they apply to her particular situation.

When seeing your doctor, here are five tips to make the most of your visit.

1. Make a list of your symptoms and prioritize them, including how often you have them and how severe they are.

2. Learn about hormone therapy ahead of time.

3. Think about your own comfort level with the benefits and risks of hormone therapy before seeing the doctor.

4. Prepare a list of questions for your doctor.

5. Document your family health history.

Work with your doctor to reevaluate your treatment choices periodically so that you can confidently make the best decisions to navigate this period of change in your life.

For more information about menopause, visit www.hormone.org.

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Pedicure Pointers For Prettier, Healthier Feet

2009-05-21T06:05:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-An at-home pedicure can be an economical way to pamper yourself when preparing for a warm-weather event such as a wedding, graduation or outdoor party.

A survey conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) found that 73 percent of women groom their feet once a month and 41 percent of women moisturize. However, the survey also found that women tend to have more problems with their feet than men.

"Grooming your feet should be done frequently, as it promotes good foot hygiene and overall foot health," said Dr. Ronald Jensen, APMA president. "If you have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet, consult with an APMA podiatrist to recommend a customized pedicure that you can follow for optimal foot health."

Here are a few pointers on achieving a proper, pampering, at-home pedicure:

• If you are giving yourself both a pedicure and manicure, be sure to use separate tools from those used for the manicure. This will help ensure that you don't transfer fungus and bacteria.

• Begin by soaking your feet in warm water. Stimulate circulation by massaging one foot at a time.

• Never use a razor to remove dead skin from the bottom of your feet. When eliminating skin build-up such as calluses, use a pumice stone, foot file or exfoliating scrub.

• When trimming nails, use a toenail clipper with a straight edge. Don't round the edges of your toenails. This type of shape increases your chance of developing painful, ingrown toenails.

• To smooth nail edges, use an emery board. File lightly in one direction only.

• To clean your nails, gently run a wooden or rubber manicure stick under your nails. Don't use sharp tools that could puncture your skin and leave it vulnerable to infection.

• Keep feet moisturized but don't leave moisturizer between toes. This can lead to the development of athlete's foot.

• Apply polish only if you have healthy nails. While it looks pretty, nail polish locks out moisture and keeps nails from breathing.

• If you have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet, consult a podiatrist so he or she can recommend a customized pedicure that both you and your salon can follow for optimal health.

• On the eve of your special event, gently wrap cellophane around each foot to help lock in moisture. By morning, your feet will be soft and smooth.

For more information, visit www.apma.org.

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Bauder College Runway Show and Exhibition Reveals Emerging Fashion, Design Talent

2009-05-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Up-and-coming Atlantan student designers showcased their top designs at a runway fashion show and portfolio exposition on Friday, May 15, at Bauder Black Tie, the 31st annual Bauder College student fashion and design event.

This year, the show promoted environmentally-friendly fashion and living by honoring local entrepreneurs and philanthropists whose foundations and businesses emphasize sustainable living and protecting the environment. Honorees included Ovie Mughelli, Atlanta Falcons full back and founder of the Ovie Mughelli Project; Kathleen Plate, owner of Smart Glass Jewelry; Ilona Cardona, owner of A Tisket A Tasket; and more.

“The students did an outstanding job displaying artistic work that represents the level of excellence we have come to expect of Bauder College students,” said Reginald Morton, president of Bauder College. “It was especially rewarding to see the work of our alumni and the progress they’ve made in their careers.”

Students from the fashion design, fashion merchandising, graphic design, business administration and interior design programs were judged on their garments, portfolios or presentations by local industry professionals. A winning student from each program was selected and awarded the Bauder College Golden Hands Award.

Along with top student designs, the runway also featured garments and hats made from “green” materials, including eco children’s wear from Green Pomegranate, hats made from recyclable materials from Tisket A Tasket, and custom dresses created with recycled glass and Coca-Cola products designed by Plate. Musical group Kwiet Storm and soloist Natasha Bradley, of Atlanta-based J-Pat Management, also gave live performances during the fashion show.

“I’m honored to be a featured designer for this year’s Bauder Black Tie,” said Plate. “I hope that my dresses inspire the students to see the world as limitless in its opportunities so they themselves can become leaders within the fashion industry and work towards a sustainable future for our planet.”

Student winners:
-Fashion design: Monique Bynoe
-Fashion merchandising: Bianca Mathis
-Graphic design: Khamlek Phomlavan
-Business administration: Jamison Jones
-Interior design: Carolyn Horwath

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Top 5 must-have summer beauty essentials

2009-05-19T05:43:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Summer means making memories with friends and loved ones. There are more cameras at summer events than there are at a movie premiere, and you’ll want to look your best while you beat the heat.

Fortunately, a handful of products that should have a spot in your beauty bag can protect your skin while giving it a sun-kissed glow. Here are the top five affordable luxuries you should have in your makeup kit this summer to keep skin looking healthy, glowing and gorgeous:

1. Bronzed beauty
Just a few years ago, women spent hours soaking up the sun without the protection of sunscreen. Today, we know the dangers of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays and their potential to seriously damage skin. Instead, try Bronzing Powder from The Body Shop in a shade to match your skin tone. Each shade contains the antioxidant vitamin E to protect your skin and Community Trade marula oil, a highly effective moisturizer. Apply bronzing powder over foundation or add shimmer by wearing alone on the face and cheeks.

2. Mascara that stands up to summer
The heat of summer can lead to less-than-beautiful raccoon eyes, so it’s important to have a good waterproof mascara in your toolkit that can stand up to the ocean, the pool and even an afternoon running through the sprinkler.

3. Bright eyes for hot nights
One of the most affordable ways to update your summer look is with eye color and this season’s hottest shades are intense. Celebrity makeup artist Chase Aston recommends Hot Brights Eye Color (available at BodyShop-USA.com). His favorite color combinations? Violet Sunset -- a flirty pairing of dusky pink with rich mauve and Pearly Sky – a vibrant deep aqua combined with earthy cream..

“Violet Sunset is the perfect color palette for summer smoky eyes. For both the day and night, smudge this intoxicating color palette around the eyes,” says Aston. “These satin soft shades in Pearly Sky glide onto the eyes, creating a burst of color that shimmers in the sun for fresh, flirty hues for those hot summer days.”

4. Cool and refreshing
Whether you spent your day at a barbecue or the beach, it’s likely you’ll need a quick cool down at dusk. The Body Shop’s Peppermint Cooling foot spray refreshes and revives hot and tired feet and legs in seconds with Community Trade peppermint from England.

5. Vacation beauty
If a vacation or quick weekend getaway is in the cards, make sure your travel kit is packed with travel-sized essentials like mini body butters, scrubs and skincare travel kits from The Body Shop. They save room in your suitcase and provide a beautiful summer glow no matter where you jet off to.

With your summer beauty bag packed, make sure you’ve got other essentials covered. Rock the retro look with a pair of candy-colored, 80’s inspired sunglasses. A stylish and oversized black straw hat looks at home on the runway or shading out the sun and a brightly colored sarong that can go from beach cover-up to casual dinner wear will having you feeling like a gilded goddess.

For more information on summer beauty essentials, visit www.theBodyShop-USA.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Five Steps for Purchasing a Sports Bra After Breast Surgery

2009-05-13T07:27:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Buying a bra - especially one for jogging or other athletic activities - is a frustrating experience for many women. For women who have had breast surgery - whether for cancer or another procedure - it can be especially challenging.

With a number of breast cancer walks and runs scheduled for spring and summer, not to mention swimsuit season around the corner, finding just the right sportswear is important. Amoena, the worldwide leader of post-breast surgery products, provides bras, swimwear and other apparel to help women after breast surgery. The company also helps to train and educate bra fitters (fit specialists) to help women find the ideal bras and sportswear for their unique body types and daily activities.

"We want to make sure that every woman has a bra that properly supports them while they engage in a fun and enjoyable exercise regimen," said Valerie Esquilla, product manager for Breast Forms and Textiles for Amoena. "Studies show that exercise is one of the best choices women can make to fight depression, improve their overall health and regain their confidence after breast surgery. We want to encourage women - whether they've exercised before or not - to find some activity they enjoy - and get out there and do it!"

So how can women who have had breast surgery find the best bra for their needs? Here are five simple tips from Esquilla and Amoena fit specialists.

1. Remember that fit is everything! Many women find that their body
changes considerably after surgery. Even if you have prostheses or
implants that indicate one size, your bra size may vary depending on
the style. Let a trained fit specialist measure you to find the best
possible bra style and size.
2. Find a comfortable bra. Even if the bra is your size, or appears to
fit, if it isn't comfortable, chances are you won't keep up your
exercise routine. Try on the bra, and then mimic some of the movements
you might engage in during exercise. If it is uncomfortable in the
fitting room, it will definitely not be comfortable when you are at
your highest activity level.
3. Ensure you feel confident in your bra. Wear your exercise attire to the
fitting. If you bend over and "show a little more skin" than you want,
consider buying a different style of clothing. You may also want to
wear shirts that are more fitted around your waist so they won't ride
up while exercising. "You don't want to feel self-conscious when you
exercise," says Penni Pitre, a breast cancer survivor from Phoenix, AZ
and a self-proclaimed jazzercise fanatic.
4. Check for balance and symmetry across the chest - especially if you've
had a full or partial mastectomy or lumpectomy. Wider shoulder straps
are important to help balance the weight of your breasts and provide
greater comfort. Pay special attention to the shoulder area. Make sure
the bra isn't pulling or adding too much weight for your shoulders. And
remember that if one breast is a different size, there are "symmetry
shapers" that can help to ensure balance.

5. Make adjustments as necessary. As you exercise your body will likely
change again. If in a few months your bra isn't providing the support
and comfort you need, go back to your fitter to see what adjustments
can be made. You may not need a new bra; simple alterations may
suffice.

Esquilla cautions that when you do begin exercising, to start slowly and don't get discouraged. If you haven't exercised for several months, get your doctor's approval first, and then gradually ease into your new routine. Some initial discomfort and tenderness after surgery is normal. "Keep trying, but if you remain sore or overly tired after a few tries, be sure to contact your physician," says Esquilla.

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Going Gray In This Economy? Forget It

2009-05-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-In this job market, gray definitely isn't the new black--at least when it comes to women's hair.

"When you're competing for a job with someone who's 10 years younger or 20 years younger than you are, being gray is the equivalent of wearing a necklace that says '57,'" Charla Krupp, author of the book "How Not to Look Old," has bluntly observed. "Would you do that? You have to convey the message that you're still in the game."

You won't be alone. About 55 percent of women color their hair at least occasionally. According to Margaret Voelker-Ferrier of the University of Cincinnati, who specializes in studying aging trends, "Society is changing but it hasn't gotten to the point that older, gray-haired women are considered distinguished looking."

How to deal with that without paying hundreds of dollars, however, has become almost an obsession among many women. Here's what experts say are the savviest ways to keep the gray away if you're in frugality mode:

• Do Your Own Coloring--Try an at-home hair dye or highlights.

• Make It Last--Sulfate-free shampoos are known for making color last and for keeping hair shinier and healthier in general. One favorite: The new VitaminShampoo line, which is also at the forefront of the "superfruits" trend. Superfruits are a category of fruits that have been called "the future of healthy living." They're rich in vitamins and antioxidants, according to studies conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture, and nutritionists, medical researchers and other scientists are taking them very seriously.

Shampoo "flavors" such as pomegranate blackberry, noni berry lemongrass and acai berry guava are made with high-potency fruits, loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. The fruits come from around the world, including Tahiti and Brazil's Amazon Rain Forest.

• Find Deals--Some beauty schools will color your hair at a discount if you're willing to let a student work on you. Even better, total freebies can sometimes be found at salons holding employee-training sessions.

• Don't Hesitate To Ask--Finally, if you've lost your job and have a good relationship with your stylist, ask her to cut you a break to keep your business--especially when your situation improves. She may be happy to help you out. Just don't ask for the favor more than once.

Learn More

For more information, visit www.vitaminshampoo.com.

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UrbanCouture Rocks the Runway in Atlanta for the 6th Year Running

2009-04-30T07:07:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire / -- Pattern, color, multicultural, style moxie and fluidity all describe the senior fashion collections that will be presented and modeled on May 9, 2009 at Grady High School; 8 p.m. The show is guaranteed to rival the finest professional shows in the southeast.

Ten (10) senior designers will champion looks that are "on trend" for 2009. Sheer, Metallics, Gladiators, Eco-Fashion, Ethnicware, Fast Fashion, Fruit Salad (or mixed prints), muffin tops, and a multitude of palettes will delight beyond measure.

A vivacious set design will be constructed by the Grady Art Department, G-Stage, led by the unbelievable creative efforts of John Brandhorst, Arts Academy Director, and Jake Dreiling, technical director. Additional set design by Scenario Custom Scenery. Hair styling & make up by the fabulous Carter Barnes and Sweet Pea Spa. Jewelry provided by Wendy Babchin Designer Group.

Six years ago, E. Vincent Martinez launched UrbanCouture with just 40 students. Today, the 100-student program is a foundation of the school's arts academy. Over 100 Grady students serve as models, lighting and sound technicians, graphic designers, musicians, volunteers and more. The program and its platform provide students with the skills and tools necessary to develop, unveil, and fuse fashion. This alluring environment grants the freedoms and expressions which arm the students with the confidence to pursue and become emerging designers.

The Senior Fashion Collections will be unveiled Saturday, May 9th at 8:00 PM in the Grady High School Gymnasium. There is only one show so please purchase your tickets early. Tickets on sale @ www.seatyourself.biz/gradyhighschool for $15.00. For more information, email: urbancouture@comcast.net or phone E. Vincent Martinez at 404-216-8722 or Sherri Lamar at 770.403.4066.

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Macy's to Serve as Sponsor of Fiesta Atlanta's Inaugural Fashion Event

2009-04-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Lanza Group, LLC, Atlanta's leading Hispanic marketing, PR & events firm, today proudly announced that Macy's will sponsor Fiesta Atlanta's inaugural fashion event. The 3rd Annual Fiesta Atlanta is an outdoor Cinco de Mayo festival that celebrates Latino culture, music and food. Fiesta Atlanta takes place on Sunday, May 3, 2009 from 10 AM to 7 PM at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. The inaugural Fiesta Atlanta fashion event will take place at Macy's Lenox Square Mall in Buckhead on Tuesday evening April 28th as part of Fiesta Atlanta week festivities.

"Fiesta Atlanta is a wonderful way for the community to come together and celebrate Cinco de Mayo," said Zayra Fosse, representative for Macy's. "Macy's is especially pleased to sponsor Fiesta Atlanta's first fashion show. We know it will be a day of great shows, great fun and great people, and we are thrilled to be a part of it. We look forward to showing the community what Macy's has to offer."

"You can't talk about fashion in Atlanta without talking about Macy's," said Ralph E. Herrera, President of Lanza Group, LLC said. "That's why we're so excited that they've chosen to sponsor our first fashion event. Their presence is a great way for Macy's to connect with the growing Hispanic community in the Atlanta region."

Fiesta Atlanta '09 events include continuous live performances by national and local artists, a children's stage, an artist's market, vendor booths offering free product samples and authentic Latino foods. For more information about Fiesta Atlanta '09, contact Mara Spiegel at (404) 350-0200 or MSpiegel@LanzaGroup.com or visit www.FiestaAtlanta.com.

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Amoena Introduces First Post Surgical Garments With Vitamin E & Aloe to Help Soothe and Comfort After Breast Surgery

2009-04-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Amoena, the worldwide leader of post-breast surgery products, today announced the introduction of The Hannah Collection, the industry's first post-surgical garments infused with Vitamin E and Aloe to ease discomfort after breast surgery.

The post-surgical camisole and bra both feature a drain containment device system as well as a soft, soothing material, made with microcapsules of Vitamin E and Aloe that have been infused into the fabric.

Designed specifically to provide comfort after surgery, as well as help women regain a sense of femininity, the camisole features a zip front while the bra offers a hook and eye front closure. The innovative design makes it easier for women to slip on or off either garment while recovering range of motion after breast surgery. Both products offer soft decorative lace trim and elastic straps that fasten in front for easy access during treatment.

"Amoena's new Hannah post-operative camisole assists healthcare professionals following first or second stage reconstructive breast surgical procedures that require drain management," said Dr. Stephen Harris, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Good Samaritan Hospital, New York. "The zip-front closure allows professionals to easily fit the garment immediately following surgery and also allows for ease of wear while the patient recovers her range-of-motion. The Vitamin E and Aloe treatment that the fabric lends to the wearer's skin adds an element of comfort for the patient, and is a nice addition to such a functional garment."

The Hannah Collection is available through leading retailers, boutiques, Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers, hospitals and physician offices. A list of retailers can be found at www.amoena.us. Specially-trained Amoena fit specialists will help women find the right undergarments for immediately after surgery and beyond. "Fit specialists play a key role in all our products," said Valerie Esquilla, breast form & textile product manager for Amoena. "They have the experience and background to understand what women are going through after breast surgery and to work with them to find the very best products for their needs."

Many post-surgical bras, drain containment systems and undergarments are covered by insurance. Amoena encourages women to check with their health plans for additional information.

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Women, Stress And Heart Disease

2009-04-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-When it comes to heart health and women, the role played by stress can't be stressed enough. This is in addition to other factors, such as diet, physical activity, and genetics that are known to contribute to heart disease in women.

According to the American Psychological Association's (APA) 2008 Stress in America survey, women report experiencing higher levels of stress than men-33 percent of women report an average stress level of 8 or above on a 10-point scale (vs. 27 percent of men).

"The link between high levels of stress and heart disease is well known and very real," says Katherine Nordal, Ph.D., executive director for professional practice at the American Psychological Association. "The good news is that by being proactive in their health care decisions and making healthy lifestyle choices, women can successfully manage their levels of stress and minimize their risk of heart disease."

In fact, the tools used to prevent stress are also those often employed to prevent heart disease. A healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as regular physical activity such as walking, yoga or dance, all contribute to a healthy mind and body.

APA offers the following tips on how to manage your stress:

• Understand how you experience stress. Everyone experiences stress differently. How do you know when you are stressed?

• Identify your sources of stress. What events or situations trigger stressful feelings? Is there anything you can do to change the situation or reduce your stress?

• Learn your own stress signals. People experience stress in different ways. Learn to gauge your stress signals.

• Recognize how you deal with stress. Determine if you are using unhealthy behaviors (such as smoking, drinking alcohol and over/undereating) to cope.

• Find healthy ways to manage stress. Consider healthy, stress-reducing activities such as meditation, exercising or talking things over with friends or family.

• Take care of yourself. Eat right, get enough sleep, drink plenty of water and engage in regular physical activity, such as yoga, taking a short walk, going to the gym or playing sports.

• Reach out for support. Accepting help from supportive friends and family can improve your ability to manage stress. If you continue to feel overwhelmed, you may want to talk to a psychologist, who can help you better manage stress and change unhealthy behaviors.

To learn more about stress and mind/body health, visit the American Psychological Association's Help Center at www.apahelpcenter.org.

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Why Look Older When You Can Look Simply Ageless?

2009-03-24T04:09:00.000-07:00

(NAPSI)-If you think you're looking older, you may have your foundation to blame.

Different techniques and approaches work best at different ages, so it's best to periodically reconsider the products you use and the way you apply them.

For example, Dr. Zoe Draelos, clinical and research dermatologist, points out that "Females typically wear facial foundation at least eight hours a day, so a formulation that helps improve skin condition can have profound benefits over time, especially for women with sensitive skin."

The routines you use in your teens and 20s may actually work against you in your 30s, 40s and 50s. Here are some tips from the experts:

• After 35, less is better. Heavy makeup can accentuate wrinkles by settling into fine lines. You may want to use a foundation with added vitamins and antioxidants such as CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Foundation to achieve a smooth, even finish and skin tone.

"When applying foundation, it's important to only apply where needed, then blend throughout. Simply Ageless is great because the formula is light and sheer but easily buildable for full coverage," says Molly R. Stern, CoverGirl celebrity makeup artist.

• Opt for a cream blush. Powder blush can provide an unnaturally heavy spot of color that does not blend easily. A cream blush will give your skin a natural, dewy, glow that will look like it's coming from inside instead of the color just sitting on the skin.

• Focus on the eyes. Choose lighter (charcoal, gray, blue and brown) rather than black eyeliner, which can make eyes look small and can also emphasize fine lines around the eyes. Choose lighter shades for eye shadow as they tend to visually open the eyes. Keep your eyebrows in shape and a little fuller. A too-fine brow line can be aging.

• Lighten up. Choose a lighter shade of lipstick and preferably one with a hint of gloss. Also, stick to warm shades. Shades with blue undertones can make mature lips look cold.

Finding the right shades and products is easier than ever, as there are an increasing number of products on the market for mature skin. In this economy, drugstores can be a great alternative to spending department store prices, and can offer products that are just as effective. CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Foundation is part of a new generation of anti-aging makeup that stays suspended over fine lines and wrinkles, making them look less noticeable and providing beautiful flawless skin. The formula helps promote collagen generation and contains antioxidants to help protect the skin from free radicals.

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Get Married and Celebrity Event Designer Colin Cowie Offer 2009 Spring Trends That Merge Personal and Seasonal Styles for the Fashion-Forward Bride

2009-03-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Spring is the start of the wedding season, and a time when brides have additional options for every element of their celebration. From an abundance of flowers and fresh, seasonal foods, to moving the wedding outside and shortening the hemline, brides' options spring into high gear with the bright colors, smells, tastes and fashions of the season. Get Married unveils the latest spring wedding trends that exemplify an organic blending of styles and exude creativity, good taste and the true sense of the season.

For brides seeking the latest trends for their spring wedding, Get Married's show on Lifetime Television and www.GetMarried.com provide unique wedding ideas from the industry's leading experts who offer season-specific advice, ideas and inspirations that fit any budget and personal style.

Get Married teamed with Colin Cowie of Colin Cowie Lifestyle, internationally known as the arbiter of style, to offer the latest wedding trends to the springtime bride. "Spring is a thrilling time of the year - it represents growth and new beginnings - a perfect metaphor for a wedding," said Colin, lifestyle expert, celebrity wedding designer and host of Get Married on Lifetime Television and www.GetMarried.com. "The gift of a spring wedding is that it gives everyone a chance to revel in nature."

Colin Cowie and Get Married offer 5 Spring Wedding Trends for the Fashionable Bride who wants to merge personal and seasonal styles while capturing the essence of spring in her wedding.

1. Extract electric colors from nature: Lift colors straight from spring
leaves, flowers and shoots of grass, and bring them to the reception
tables and the bridal dresses. Grass green, canary yellow and
chaparelli pinks, accented with gold or pewter, are exciting and fresh.
2. Fuse youthful flavors in a sophisticated spirit: Capture the popping
colors of spring by serving lollipops at a candy station, popcorn at
valet, or other tasty treats to satisfy your palette.
3. Combine deep colors with lighter papers: Keep wedding invitations,
table cards and programs fresh with light papers like tissue and
vellum. Incorporate spring colors like white ink on rich green paper or
shocking pink ink on lime green paper. Reverse the formula with green
inks on white paper.
4. Shorten the hemlines and heighten the style: Stand out from the crowd
but blend with the event intention by wearing a shorter dress with an
eye-catching pair of heels. Create a chic retro look with a short
birdcage wedding veil and a set of short gloves.
5. Create an at-home atmosphere with backyard elegance: Create a quality
backyard wedding that is intimate and organic with your garden being
the aesthetic to inspire your decor. Spring weather is unpredictable
so have heaters and a back-up plan of moving inside or under a gorgeous
canopy.

"Springtime embodies a unique charm and is a theme in itself when it comes to weddings and celebrations," said Stacie Francombe, CEO and founder of Get Married and www.GetMarried.com. "The possibility of a spring wedding is endless, and Get Married offers brides all the latest seasonal trends and styles for brides on any budget."

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Atlanta Says 'I do' to Running of the Brides(R)

2009-03-18T11:37:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Over a thousand newly engaged women and their helpers are expected to burst through the doors of New York's annual Running of the Brides(R) on Friday, March 20, 2009 hoping to snag the wedding gown of their dreams for a song.

The event, being held at the Filene's Basement in Atlanta, officially starts at 8:00am but brides-to-be and their teams have been known to show up the night before with sleeping bags and tents to be one of the first in line.

Over 2200 gowns, sizes 2 to 26, from famous bridal houses will be priced at $249, $499 and $699. These same gowns would go for $900 to $10,000 at bridal salons.

When the doors part, brides-to-be and their helpers will descend on 125 racks jammed with wedding gowns. Team-members will grab as many dresses as they can hold, then meet in a pre-determined spot. A makeshift fitting room will be available, but most brides will try on dresses on the selling floor.

And what if a petite bride discovers she pounced on a size 14 dress in pink chiffon instead of a size 4 in white satin? Her team will try to barter with other brides for the right designer of size.

Chaos reigns for the first hour, followed by shrieks of excitement, tears of happiness and applause when each bride finds THE ONE.

AOL.com recently named Filene's Basement's Running of the Brides(R) the "Number One Sale Worth Waiting For."

The Running of the Brides(R) is a one day sale and the gowns are not returnable. Hours are 8:00am to 9:00pm. Filene's Basement is at 3535 Peachtree Road in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.filenesbasement.com/bridal.

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Tips To Help Women Keep Their Cool

2009-03-15T08:22:00.001-07:00

(NAPSI)-Making a few lifestyle changes can help millions of women prevent or minimize the effects of hot flashes.

Women may experience hot flashes for several years, with some women feeling just a little warmer than usual on occasion and others experiencing several uncomfortable episodes throughout the day and even night sweats.

Here are a few steps you can take to reduce them:

• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day.

• Dress in layers so it's easy to cool yourself off.

• Try to pinpoint what triggers your hot flashes. For some women it's coffee, spicy foods or alcohol.

• Soy might help. According to The North American Menopause Society, 40 to 80 mg of isoflavones daily may help relieve symptoms.

• Be sure you get enough sleep. If hot flashes disturb your sleep, talk to your doctor about ways to get adequate rest.

• Don't smoke. Smoking can increase hot flashes.

• If hot flashes are really uncomfortable and nothing you do helps, talk to your doctor.

"If hot flashes are severe and interrupting your life and you are not responding to common remedies or lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, then perhaps it is time to discuss with your physician prescription options such as low-dose estrogen therapies," says Dr. James Simon, clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at George Washington University.

Low-dose estrogen therapies are recommended by many experts in the fields of gynecology and estrogen therapy, including The North American Menopause Society and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

"Most physicians recommend that estrogen should be prescribed in the lowest effective dose and for the shortest amount of time to manage a patient's symptom," Dr. Simon adds.

One of the newest ways to deliver estrogen is a fast-drying colorless gel that can be applied to a woman's upper arm or shoulder. One low-dose, prescription-only gel indicated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe hot flashes is called Elestrin.

Another problem associated with menopause is a lack of interest in intimacy. Currently, clinical trials are being carried out on a product called LibiGel, which, if it's approved, may be indicated for low sexual desire in women.

Visit www.BioSantepharma.com for more information on both these medications.

If lifestyle changes do not help alleviate your symptoms, talk to your doctor about the possibility of treatment.

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UsTrendy Gives Away Designer Dresses for Prom

2009-03-04T05:42:00.000-08:00

/24-7/ -- Just think what it would feel like to be adorned in one-of-a-kind designer couture for your first step onto the dance floor on the most memorable night of your life.

We all know how difficult shopping for a prom dress can be - trying to find the perfect dress that is chic, elegant, sexy, and - most important - a dress that no other girl will show up wearing! Nothing is worse than spending all that time and money trying to find a spectacular dress, only to find yourself on a dance floor of clones.

The UsTrendy Prom Dress Giveaway is the perfect place to find that unique and fashion-forward dress that will have all your friends asking, "Where did you find that dress?!" UsTrendy.com is a site where up-and-coming designers can post their work and have users like you vote on their designs before they hit the stores. The top rated designs will then be produced by UsTrendy. This year, you have a chance to win a brand new, super-stylish dress designed by one of our fabulous designers - for free! Just go to www.ustrendy.com/prom-dress-giveaway/

"The Prom Dress giveaway is a perfect way to give girls a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get celebrity star treatment and win a free designer dress which they may not otherwise be able to afford, particularly in this economic downturn. At the same time, the Giveaway helps to promote talented up-and-coming designers," states UsTrendy Founder, Sam Sisakhti.

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225 Winners Across 15 Cities Will Get Their Dream Makeovers by Style Guru Clinton Kelly

2009-03-03T09:06:00.000-08:00

June 13th is the date for the Northpoint Macy's in Atlanta for Clinton's makeover! Deadline for casting is May 6.

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Launching today with four audience makeovers on ABC’s The View, the “Macy’s & Clinton Kelly MAKE OVER AMERICA” tour will reinvent 225 women across the country with the help of style authority Clinton Kelly (TLC’s What Not To Wear). Traveling to 15 cities over the spring and fall, Macy’s and Clinton Kelly will make over 15 women in each market culminating in a runway show to unveil the makeovers at each local Macy’s store. Additionally, one lucky winner from anywhere in the U.S. will be selected for the ultimate Clinton Kelly makeover and shopping spree at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City.

Women can enter the contest at www.macys.com/makeoveramerica, where they will be asked to upload a photo or video and answer questions on why they should be selected for a Clinton Kelly makeover. Also online, America can vote for the “best makeover” after each event and can engage Clinton Kelly on other issues of fit and style. The closing for the entry period varies by market, so interested participants should check online for details.

“MAKE OVER AMERICA is taking to the masses the formula that works wonders for so many women on my television show,” says Clinton Kelly. “It’s not strictly about trends or solely about shape. It is finding current looks that accentuate someone’s lifestyle and personality and offer a figure-flattering fit. I can’t wait to get out there and work with all these women – more than 200 of them – to help transform their personal style!”

The MAKE OVER AMERICA tour will visit the following cities:

(event dates available online at macys.com/makeoveramerica)

Austin, TX – Macy’s at the Domain
Minneapolis, MN – Macy’s Southdale (Edina)
Boston, MA – Macy’s Burlington
Palm Beach, FL – Macy’s at the Gardens
Denver, CO – Macy’s Cherry Creek Mall
Atlanta, GA (Alpharetta) – Macy’s Northpoint
Orange County, CA – Macy’s South Coast Plaza
Kansas City, KS – Macy’s Oak Park Mall
Philadelphia, PA – Macy’s Cherry Hill (Cherry Hill, NJ)
Paramus, NJ – Macy’s Paramus Garden State Plaza
Chicago, IL – Macy’s on State Street
Scottsdale, AZ – Macy’s Fashion Square
New Orleans, LA – Macy’s Lakeside (Metairie)
Portland, OR – Macy’s Washington Square
San Francisco, CA – Macy’s Stoneridge Shopping Center (Pleasanton)

A former editor at Mademoiselle and Marie Claire magazines, Kelly made his debut on TLC’s What Not to Wear in 2003. It was Kelly’s talent for offering unflinchingly honest style appraisals with humor and compassion that brought him to the attention of Macy’s. For the past three years, Kelly has traveled the country offering his unique blend of fashion expertise, style secrets and self-confidence counseling at events in Macy’s department stores across the U.S.

More than just a fashion expert, Kelly is a committed advocate of style as a means of empowerment, reminding women that “knowing you look great builds confidence, and confidence is a key ingredient in reaching your goals.”

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High School Students to Shine for Prom '09!

2009-03-02T11:58:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Countless memorable outfits showcasing vibrant colors, outrageous fabrics and over-the-top accessories have passed down Hollywood's red carpet. Many of these trends and styles have even found their way to an equally important high-fashion event - the high school prom. But, for those prom-goers who really want to stick out and make a statement (and perhaps win money for doing it!) there's always duct tape.

Entering its ninth year, the Duck(R) brand duct tape Stuck at Prom(R) Scholarship Contest is putting high school students from the United States and Canada to the test, challenging couples to create and accessorize prom outfits that are unique, beautiful and made out of duct tape.

It's easy enough to walk into a store to buy a prom dress and rent a tux, but making it and saving hundreds of dollars in the process has been the most appealing aspect of the contest for the thousands of students who have entered over the last eight years. And what's better than saving money? Winning it, of course! The first place couple with the highest number of online votes will win $6,000 - that's $3,000 for each person - in scholarship dollars! The school that hosts the prom of the winning couple will also receive $3,000.

The couple earning the second highest number of online votes will win $2,000 each, with the high school receiving $2,000, also. The third place couple will win $1,000 each and their high school will receive $1,000.

Students who are interested can go to www.stuckatprom.com for official contest rules and a registration form. The contest, sponsored by Henkel Corporation, marketers of Duck(R) brand duct tape, starts on March 2, 2009. Participants are required to submit a photo of themselves wearing their duct tape prom formalwear and completed forms by June 8, 2009.

A panel of judges will choose 10 finalist couples based on five criteria: workmanship, originality, use of colors (Duck(R) brand duct tape is available in 20!), accessories and quantity of duct tape used.

Then, it's up to the public's vote. The top 10 finalists will be narrowed down to first, second and third place winners during a period of online voting, which will open on June 19, 2009, and end on July 2, 2009. Winners will be announced on or around July 9, 2009.

During the contest period, all accepted entries, including those from previous years, can be viewed at www.stuckatprom.com.

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Drop Dead Gorgeous Announces Fashion Benefit

2009-03-01T06:16:00.000-08:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Drop-Dead Gorgeous, a campaign of the 501-c3 organization, Meet Justice, Inc., which engages the fashion and entertainment industries to help raise funds and awareness about child sex trafficking; will host its annual Fashion Benefit on Tuesday, March 3, 2009. The Drop Dead Gorgeous Fashion Benefit, chaired by Susan Muscari and Bronni Karatassos, will take place at 7 p.m. at 103 West in Buckhead, Georgia.

Sadly, Atlanta ranks among the top three cities in the U.S. affected by child sex trafficking. Meet Justice, Inc. is primarily a volunteer-driven organization, which rallies to end child sex trafficking internationally.

After drug dealing, human trafficking (meaning forced labor or sexual servitude) is tied with the illegal arms industry as the second largest criminal industry in the world today, and it is the fastest growing (*US Department of Health and Human Services, Human Trafficking Fact Sheet).

The 2009 Drop Dead Gorgeous Fashion Benefit features a fashion show by Nina Gleyzer Couture, Woller + Fogle of SCAD, and T. Boutique; with jewelry by Jen Boaz Designs. Live and silent auctions include an exclusive Napa Valley getaway to the Mondavi family winery, 29Spa and Neiman Marcus luncheon, private dinner for 8 at Kyma cooked by renowned chef Pano Karatassos, and a tour to Spain’s finest wineries.

Other contributors include Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, Four Seasons Atlanta Magazine, Six Degrees Magazine, Q100, Folio Wines, Peroni, Absolut Vodka, Buckhead Beef, Richie Arpino Salon, 29Spa, Neiman Marcus, Wendy Babchin Designer Group, and 1-800-Flowers.

Tickets are $125 per person and may be purchased by visiting www.dropdeadgorgeousevent.org. For more information please contact Susan Muscari or Bronni Karatassos at 678-644-0421.

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Oscar Recap From Beauty & Style Expert, Sue Devitt

2009-02-24T03:48:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- International style expert and celebrity makeup artist, Sue Devitt offers her commentary from last night's 81st annual Oscars and the spotlight's all about color. Attending the Oscars to offer style and beauty commentary for the Red Carpet coverage of E!'s pre-show programming, Sue thought color was the big show-stopper.

"Color represents Hollywood's most profound makeup direction right now ... from blue and purple, green and coral, the Red Carpet is bursting with vibrant, bold shades," says Sue. While last year's approach reflected a sharp emphasis on brown smokey eyes, right now, eyes are being defined with primary and tertiary hues. The trick to applying strong color in a classically beautiful way, advises Sue, is to practice moderation. "Use color to rim and add dimension to the lash line and if you wear a bright eye, use more neutral shades on lips and cheeks," adds Sue.

When going for a dramatic, glamorous lip, it doesn't always have to be about red, remarks Sue. "Opt for a fruit colored lip that is the perfect balance between feminine and fun. Pink and coral shades work best for this look whether you're on the Red Carpet, the boardroom or the beaches of Ibiza. But make sure you keep the tone soft and muted for a classic look." The Oscars are the perfect prelude to Spring and Summer looks with actresses being the first to tout upcoming trends. That said, color seems to be a major contender as a "must look" for the upcoming season.

Sue thought the overall aesthetic was classic, sophisticated, and that looks were beautifully paired with ornate jewelry and accessories. Among her favorite Hollywood looks of the evening were Natalie Portman, Kate Winslet, Nicole Kidman, Halle Berry and Queen Latifah. "Each of these women looked exquisite, with perfect symmetry between makeup, hair and dress. These women weren't afraid to experiment with bold colors on the red carpet; truly Oscar worthy."

Sue Devitt is a top international makeup artist whose work has graced the runways of Versace, Dolce & Gabbana and Valentino. Devitt continues to work with her A-list clients for Red Carpet events including the Academy Awards, the Golden Globes, the Cannes Film Festival, the Toronto Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival.

Her successful treatment-based skin and makeup collection, Sue Devitt Beauty is available in the United States at Barney's New York, select ULTA stores, www.beauty.com and luxury boutiques and spas. Sue Devitt Beauty is also available in the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico City, Korea and the Philippines.

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Get Married and Celebrity Event Designer Colin Cowie Offer Wedding Tips and Trends to the Budget-Savvy Bride

2009-02-23T08:39:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Weddings are an evergreen business, yet are not recession proof, and brides are more conscientious on their spending to ensure they make the most impact for their special day. Nearly 2,220,000 weddings are estimated to take place in the U.S. in 2009, according the The Wedding Report, Inc., which ultimately translates to brides and wedding planners looking to spend for the big day. Despite the soft economy, the total estimated market value of the wedding industry was more than $62 billion last year alone. Get Married, a leading multi-platform entertainment and wedding resource, is at the forefront of wedding trends and understands that planning a stylish, memorable and personalized celebration can be done within a budget.

In any economy, and especially one that is down, brides want to know how to do the most without spending the most. For brides looking for the latest trends to make their weddings spectacular, without over-spending and under-wowing, Get Married's show on Lifetime Television and www.GetMarried.com provides them with inspiring ideas, quality connections and fantastic finds, including tips and trends from leading industry experts.

Get Married teamed with Colin Cowie of Colin Cowie Lifetsyle, internationally known as the arbiter of style, to offer brides the latest wedding trends. "Your wedding is an opportunity to make a statement of style, it's a complete personal manifestation about who you are," said Cowie, lifestyle expert, celebrity wedding designer and host of Get Married on Lifetime Television and www.GetMarried.com. "The only rule is that taste and good style should prevail in everything you do."

Cowie showcases some of the biggest trends in his latest book Wedding Chic and, together with Get Married, offers 7 Tips for the Budget-Savvy Bride who seek smart solutions for planning an extraordinary wedding:

1. Dream big: Small ideas get small results, so put budget aside while
envisioning your dream wedding, then figure out what you can afford.
2. Cut your coat according to the cloth: It's better to do 5 things
correctly than 10 things on the skinny.
3. Consider a destination wedding: Weddings can take place anywhere, so
think beyond the exotic beach and think about a bed-and-breakfast or
country inn.
4. Opt for a fantastic DJ: Instead of a big orchestra band, find a great
DJ who can create great background music and just as easily keep the
guests moving on the dance floor.
5. Invest in a trusted wedding planner: A professional is there to ease
some of the pressure while bringing your vision to a reality.
6. Design a signature drink: Rather than serving an open bar, offer guests
a specialty beverage that is as delicious as it is memorable.
7. Create monochromatic flower arrangements using one type of flower: When
bundled en masse in short ceramic vases, whether roses or carnations,
tulips or spider mums; these flowers are beautiful and impactful.

"Weddings are a time to celebrate and share with your nearest and dearest friends and family, so including them in your event is one of the most important elements to preserve," said Stacie Francombe, CEO and founder of Get Married and www.GetMarried.com . "Today's brides are incredibly innovative and progressive, and they seek ideas that they can make their own. Inspirations are free, and Get Married's industry experts offer brides the big ideas that can be personalized and tailored to meet their style and budget."

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Common Questions about Restylane

2009-02-22T07:38:00.000-08:00

/24-7/ -- What is Restylane?

Restylane has become the preferred treatment for most common types of facial wrinkles. These include crow's feet, naso-labial wrinkles, and wrinkles that result from sun damage and other effects of aging. Restylane is an injectable filler, which sets it apart from injectable chemical blockers such as Botox. The active ingredient in Restylane is hyaluronic acid, a compound found naturally in the body. However, Restylane is not derived from another organism as Botox is. Restylane works well for getting rid of many types of facial wrinkles, specifically those that are not caused by muscle contracture. It is also commonly used in lip augmentation.

Is Restylane safe?

Yes, it is safe. In fact, every human has some amount of hyaluronic acid in his or her body. It is one of the compounds that add volume and fullness to the skin.

What is the procedure like?

Your treatment will involve your cosmetic surgeon injecting small amounts of the gel into your skin. This can take as little as a few minutes, or up to an hour, depending on the size of the area needing treatment. Most procedures can be done during the course of a lunch break. You may experience minor amounts of swelling and discoloration following your treatment, but this should pass within a couple of days.

When used for lip augmentation, the gel is injected into the inside of the upper or lower lip, and also along the lip line. This helps prevent lipstick from bleeding into the small wrinkle lines around the edges of the lips.

How long will it take the results to show?

You will notice an improvement immediately as the injection lifts and smoothes out the wrinkle, though it takes a few days before the final result is apparent.

Is Restylane permanent?

Restylane injections are not permanent, but you can expect your treatment to last up to six months. Most Restylane patients have the procedure done twice a year. Those who do not continue with follow-up treatments will find their treated areas returning to their pre-treatment state.

What are the advantages of Restylane over other treatment options?

Restylane has been found to last longer than earlier treatment methods such as fat and collagen injections.

Source: Randall B. Weil M.D.
San Francisco, CA

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WrinkleFree Eyes 20-Minute Eye Lift System Is the New $30 Alternative to Botox

2009-02-18T06:01:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- University Medical Pharmaceuticals, a leading developer and distributor of medically developed and efficacy-based skin and beauty care products, today announced the launch of its newest product, the WrinkleFree Eyes 20-Minute Eye Lift System(TM). Now available at more than 35,000 mass market retail locations throughout the U.S., the WrinkleFree Eyes 20-Minute Eye Lift System is a safe and affordable non-surgical alternative to costly, invasive and painful cosmetic procedures.

Using a scientific process called "Iontophoresis," the patented micro-charged eye patch activates on contact with the skin to gently push Retinol 4x(TM) activating serum deep into the skin to dramatically reduce the appearance of wrinkles in only 20 minutes. In order to maintain results between WrinkleFree Eyes patch treatments, the two-week starter kit includes the daily 24 Hour Face Lift(TM) dermal filler which continually releases hyaluronic acid to naturally fill in gaps and decrease the look of wrinkles and enhance smoothness and elasticity as well as WrinkleFree Eyes' patented nightly Retinol 4x intensive cream which is time-released so it is four times stronger, yet significantly less irritating than leading retinol treatments.

Product benefits include:

-- Clinically proven to reduce wrinkle appearance up to 85% in only 20
minutes
-- Each eye patch treatment lasts up to one week
-- Features micro-charged "Iontophoresis" technology which is a gentle
trans-dermal process that activates on contact with skin to deliver
Retinol 4x deeper and faster
-- Affordable, non-invasive topical treatment

"We are thrilled to launch the WrinkleFree Eyes 20-Minute Eye Lift System in order to provide an easy-to-use and affordable alternative to invasive cosmetic procedures," said Ray Francis, president and CEO, University Medical Pharmaceuticals. "No over-the-counter product has shown to be as effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles or works as fast, 20 minutes is all it takes to look younger and more rejuvenated for just thirty dollars."

The WrinkleFree Eyes 20-Minute Eye Lift System two-week starter kit includes two micro-charged eye patches and Retinol 4x activating serum, Retinol 4x time-released intensive cream and 24 Hour Face Lift time-released dermal filler and is available at retail locations nationwide including, CVS, Rite Aid, Target, Walgreens and Walmart for $29.99 (MSRP). The WrinkleFree Eyes 20-Minute Eye Lift System is the latest addition to University Medical Pharmaceuticals' growing line of skin and beauty care products which are developed in conjunction with leading university dermatology departments and faculty members.

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Bad Hair Days are Gone Forever with new Liquid Keratin(TM)

2009-02-17T04:05:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Liquid Keratin Inc., the creators of a new revolutionary patented hair treatment launches Liquid Keratin 30 Day Straight, Smooth, Strong and Long treatment that infuses curly, frizzy, unmanageable hair with keratin protein that it's naturally missing. It is the first safe, at home alternative to hair salon treatments that can be expensive, toxic and damaging to your hair. Liquid Keratin treatment will make hair straighter, smoother, softer and frizz free for 30 days with only one application. Unlike other salon treatments, the Liquid Keratin Treatment contains no formaldehyde or toxic chemicals. It also offers the user choice to wear hair curly without frizz or straight with minimal styling time. Liquid Keratin is currently available online at www.liquidkeratin.com, Beauty.com, in store at Ulta and will debut on HSN this March.

"For years I watched my wife spend hours on her hair with a flat iron, get expensive damaging salon treatments and buy anti-frizz treatments that would wash out after the first application and knew there was a need for a better solution", says David Allice, President of Liquid Keratin Inc. "After a year and a half of working with scientists and chemists to develop an effective alternative, we are excited to have cracked the code on the only safe, at-home hair treatment that can save people time and money in achieving easy to style, frizz free hair."

In independent clinical lab studies of Liquid Keratin, treated hair demonstrated that the Liquid Keratin protocol, had 100% less frizz, 70% less curl and was 25% longer with results lasting as long as 6 weeks. This treatment makes it faster and easier to style your hair by loosening the curl and taming unwanted frizz. The Liquid Keratin aftercare products (shampoo, conditioner and leave in styling conditioner) are key in prolonging the process. They are specially formulated without sodium chloride, which is in a lot of hair care products that will diminish the effects of the Liquid Keratin Treatment.

"People can now forget about bad hair days and enjoy softer hair with no frizz and the flexibility to wear their hair curly, straight or wavy," said Allice. "The word is out and consumers nationwide are already buzzing about the product and their incredible personal results."

How does it work? With the starter kit outlined below, there are four easy steps. First, shampoo your hair with Keratin Infusing Healthy hair De-Frizz Shampoo. After towel drying, saturate all your hair with the Liquid Keratin 30-day Straight, Smooth, Strong & Long Treatment and let it penetrate 30 minutes. Then blow dry hair and use a flat iron to seal the keratin peptide and protein to the hair shaft. For best and longest lasting results, keep your hair dry and straight for 48 hours.

The Liquid Keratin 30 Day Straight-Smooth-Strong & Long Treatment Starter Kit ($69.00) offers everything you need. The kit includes Liquid Keratin 30 day straight smooth strong & long treatment (4.0 oz / 118 ml), Liquid Keratin Infusing Healthy Hair De-Frizz Shampoo (1.7 oz / 50 ml), Liquid Keratin Infusing Deep De-Frizz Conditioner (1.7 oz / 50 ml) and Liquid Keratin Filling Leave-In Conditioner (1.7 oz / 50 ml).

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Red Dress Sweepstakes Boosts Heart Health

2009-02-06T09:00:00.001-08:00

(NAPSI)-Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of American women, yet many women aren't aware of this or don't know what they can do to lower their risk of developing it.

The Heart Truth campaign, sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and supported by Diet Coke, equips women with information to take action against heart disease.

Learning the facts and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 82 percent. The steps people take now, like following a heart healthy eating plan and being physically active, can have a big impact on their future.

Heidi Klum is joining Diet Coke for the second year as its ambassador in support of The Heart Truth campaign. Klum designed a limited-edition Diet Coke Red Dress Charm in the shape of the iconic Red Dress symbolizing women's heart health that she will wear on the Red Carpet at the Academy Awards®.

"I am proud to once again be part of this great cause," said Klum. "I am happy that I can help raise awareness by participating in the campaign, designing the new charm and getting the word out. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the country and I want every woman to know it and get tested."

Encrusted in rubies and diamonds, the charm is inspired by the Red Dress and shaped like an hourglass to remind women it is time to get educated and to take action toward achieving a healthier heart.

Consumers will have the chance to win one of 10 limited-edition Diet Coke Red Dress Charms through the Diet Coke Red Dress Charm Sweepstakes on DietCoke.com from January 26 to April 30, 2009.

The Heart Truth Road Show will tour six U.S. cities to continue to raise awareness of the importance of women's heart health. These free public events will feature the one-of-a-kind red dresses worn on the runway by celebrated women at the Diet Coke-sponsored Red Dress Collection Fashion Show in New York, as well as provide heart health screenings and educational materials.

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'Go Red for Women' Gets Stronger by the Week

2009-02-05T07:44:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Tomorrow, millions of Americans will wear red to highlight women's risk of dying from heart disease. About ten times as many women die from heart disease as breast cancer in the United States each year,[1] yet an astonishing 90 percent of primary care doctors still don't know that heart attacks kill more women than men.[2] That's why this year Healthy Monday is urging women to continue wearing red once a week, to help sound the alarm all year long.

"By wearing something red every Monday, women can signal their commitment to their own heart health" says Sid Lerner, Chairman of the Healthy Monday Campaign. "By sharing the reason they're wearing red with women they meet, that lifesaving information becomes viral. If every Monday a woman tells two friends, and they tell two friends, pretty soon women all over the country will have this crucial information. It's just like compounding interest, but it's about saving lives."

"Go Red for Women is about getting vital information into every community and every home," says Michael Weamer, Executive Vice President for the American Heart Association's Founders Affiliate. "Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States - far greater than all forms of cancer combined, but women aren't taking action to protect their hearts because they just aren't aware of the risks."

Dr. Lori Mosca, Director, Preventive Cardiology at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, says, "My research shows that doctors often don't feel very effective in helping their patients reduce their risk of heart disease. That's why public awareness and education programs are so important."

"Preventing deaths from heart disease means getting millions of women to change their habits, week after week, year round, but first they need to be convinced of the urgency and the benefits," says Dr. Thomas Kottke, who in January published a study showing that high-quality preventive treatment could postpone or prevent a third of all deaths, and an even higher proportion of deaths from heart disease. "We need to let women know that preemptive intervention can dramatically reduce the danger."

Wear something red every Monday and help get the word out each week. Visit Go Red for Women and The Heart Truth for more information and to order your red dress pins and accessories. Then make your own Monday Checklist.

Healthy Monday is a project of Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications. Healthy Monday uses weekly recommitment campaigns to help people stop smoking, lose weight, stick with an exercise program and adopt other healthy behaviors and lifestyle changes.

[1] "The Heart Truth: Women and Heart Disease." The Heart Truth. 2004. National Heart Lung Blood Institute. Jan. 2009.

[2] "Heart Disease Education, Analysis and Research, and Treatment for Women Act." American Heart Association. Jan. 2009.

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Achieving A Clear Complexion

2009-02-02T10:33:00.000-08:00

(NAPSI)-According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a significant number of adults continue to be plagued by acne well beyond their teenage years. The good news is that a clear complexion can be achieved at any age with just a few simple tips.

The journey to a clear skin begins with the hands. Avoid touching your face to help prevent spreading bacteria and clogging pores and always wash your hands before washing your face with warm water and an oil-free cleanser.

Look for a cleanser formulated with salicylic acid, says dermatologist Jessica Wu, M.D., to help fight and prevent blemishes and also one with moisture-rich soy to help even skin tone and texture, such as the Aveeno Clear Complexion Cream Cleanser.

The cleanser, which is formulated for everyday use, contains round microbeads to gently exfoliate skin, salicylic acid to lift away dirt, oil and impurities, and moisturizers to combat dryness and leave skin soft and smooth.

After cleansing but before moisturizing, dab a spot treatment that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide on affected areas, which works on contact to help eliminate existing blemishes.

Apply a lightweight moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or higher. When skin is dry it is more prone to breakouts because it causes an overproduction of oil, which can clog and inflame pores.

To help prevent future breakouts, stick with oil-free, noncomedogenic cosmetics and sunscreens and always remove makeup before bed.

Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep skin hydrated. For more tips, see AAD.org and www.aveeno.com.

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Ten Thrifty Tips for Radiant Skin

2009-01-31T06:17:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Beautiful skin without spending a lot of cash? It's true. In fact, you may actually save money on skin care this year, while also boosting your health, lowering your stress level and cleaning out your cabinets.

Skin care guru Celeste Hilling has spent more than 15 years researching and designing products in the quest to help people build and maintain radiant skin. With the ten thrifty tips, this host of "Skin Health TODAY" and CEO of Skin Authority is empowering you to throw away your old ways of thinking, "It's a new year, and time for a new you to embrace a new way of looking at skin care. Open your eyes, mind and bathroom cabinets to new ideas for skin care and you can keep your wallet closed!"

So, what's stopping you? Time for the top ten:

1. Out With the Old -- discard your beauty products one year after opening them because bacteria can grow in the bottle or jar potentially causing infections or irritation when applied to the skin. Use special caution with jars in which you dip your fingers or hands as those tend to have more active bacteria growth. It's a good idea to write the date purchased on the bottom of new products so that you know when it has reached the end of its useful life.

2. Simplify your Beauty -- you have 20 products on your shelf and don't have a clue how to use them! Simplify to no more than three to four steps in the morning and at night. In the morning, you need a mild cleanser, an anti-oxidant such as Vitamin C and a sunscreen moisturizer. Before you go to bed, use resurfacing ingredients such as AHAs and retinols in addition to restorative peptides.

3. Wash your Face -- it sounds simple and it is, cleaning your skin is one of the most important things you can do when you wake up and before you go to bed. Remove make-up and deep cleanse in one step by using cleansers incorporating AHAs, which are antibacterial and remove dead skin cells.

4. Hands Off -- regardless of the urge, keep your hands off your pimples! By pushing and prodding, you are actually pushing bacteria deeper, causing more inflammation and potentially scarring the skin.

5. Stop Smoking -- in addition to its negative, carcinogenic effects on your body and overall health, smoking causes premature aging. Cigarette smoke contains more than 4000 toxins, many of which are absorbed directly into the bloodstream and are taken by the blood into the skin's structure. Smoking also thins the skin, reduces collagen and contributes to an unflattering "apple" body shape in women.

6. More Sleep, Less Stress -- we don't live in a utopian society, so it's tough to manage enough sleep to make a difference in our stress levels. As one of the biggest impairments to skin care is stress, ease into a good night's sleep by turning off the television, taking a warm bath, dimming the lights and practicing breathing exercises.

7. Sun Protection -- the sun is not your skin's friend. Use sunscreen every day, rain or shine. To determine the quality of a sunscreen, check the SPF number on the label (those with SPF 15 or greater yield the best results), and the active ingredient label to make sure it has UVA-blocking elements such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or anything in the avobenzone family.

8. Cost Per Ounce -- shop for skin care the way that you shop for food, by looking at the cost per ounce. What you'll find is that products from spas and salons are a great bargain as they include complimentary consultations with a licensed esthetics expert, which you won't receive when buying products at grocery, drug or discount stores.

9. Don't Buy Products Based on Price -- while we're on the subject of money, just because a product is expensive, does not mean it's amazing. On the other hand, a product that costs less may not be a bargain that will work for you. Instead of shopping by price, evaluate the concentration of active ingredients and ensure any treatment product has a pH below four. The human skin ranges from 4.5-5.5 pH. A product should be below the pH level of the skin for maximum penetration. Otherwise, you might as well be using water!

10. Free Skin Care Coaching -- in light of the economy, Hilling has developed her own Skin Health Stimulus Package. Everyone now has access to a free phone or online consultation with a licensed professional to help them make safer, wiser choices on where to spend their skin care dollar or better utilize the products they already have. Simply dial 1.866.325.SKIN (7546) and say that you want to join the Beauty Workout.

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Diet Coke and Heidi Klum Use Their 'Charm' to Raise Awareness of Women's Heart Health

2009-01-30T04:31:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- For the second straight year, Diet Coke has tapped Heidi Klum as its heart health ambassador in support of The Heart Truth campaign, a national effort sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to educate women about the risks of heart disease. This year, Diet Coke's involvement in The Heart Truth will include sponsorship of The Heart Truth's Red Dress Collection fashion show on February 13th at Fashion Week 2009. Diet Coke also will debut a targeted print, television and digital advertising campaign featuring Heidi Klum; unveil packaging featuring The Heart Truth's Red Dress logo; and launch an updated Web site with consumer education about heart health as well as a traveling exhibit.

New this year, Klum is taking on the dual role of jewelry designer and model. She has created a Diet Coke Red Dress Charm, inspired by the Red Dress symbol, encrusted in rubies and diamonds and shaped like an hourglass to remind women it is time to get educated about heart disease, the #1 killer of women in America today. On February 22, 2009, Klum will wear the Diet Coke Red Dress Charm on the Red Carpet at the Academy Awards(R) to help raise awareness for women's heart health.

For a chance to share Klum's new look for the Red Dress, consumers are invited to enter to win a limited-edition version of the charm by entering the Red Dress Charm Sweepstakes at DietCoke.com.

"For more than 25 years, Diet Coke has played an integral role in consumers' lives. We know that women today, now more than ever, are interested in taking care of their health, and with heart disease being the #1 women's health issue, Diet Coke is committed to spreading the message about good heart health," said Caren Pasquale Seckler, Group Director, Low-Calorie Colas, Coca-Cola North America. "Heidi Klum's star-power helped The Heart Truth message reach millions of women last year, and with Heidi's help, we hope to continue to keep the spotlight on this crucial issue, reaching even more women and their families with information and resources for healthier hearts."

Diet Coke Heart Truth Road Show

Diet Coke and the NHLBI will be taking The Heart Truth message directly to women in cities across the United States with The Heart Truth Road Show - a traveling national exhibit about women's heart health. Co-presented by Diet Coke, The Heart Truth Road Show will travel to six cities and each free event will showcase the one-of-a-kind red dresses worn on the runway at the Red Dress Collection fashion show during Fashion Week, and provide free heart health screenings and educational materials. Starting in Minneapolis (3/6-3/8), The Heart Truth Road show will stop in Houston (3/13-3/15), Los Angeles (3/20-3/22), Charlotte (4/3-4/5), New York City (4/16-4/18) and Atlanta (4/24-4/26).

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Women Focus On Controlling A Common Problem

2009-01-27T13:49:00.000-08:00

(NAPSI)-According to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, one in four women suffers from some type of bladder weakness. Many women think that bladder weakness is an inevitable reality of pregnancy or getting older, but by building a strong pelvic floor-the group of muscles located on the underside of the pelvis that are responsible for bladder control-women can stay in control of their bodies and live an active lifestyle.

Having strong pelvic floor muscles improves posture and tummy tone and is an integral part of preventing bladder weakness and improving bladder control. Through a program of simple, gentle exercises, women can vastly improve the symptoms of a weakened pelvic floor.

"Little time is spent explaining to women the role of their pelvic floor and the impact of neglect or damage," says Kari Bo, an international expert in exercise science and physiotherapy. "Even more important, women don't realize that they can train these muscles to prevent future problems or reduce current symptoms."

Bo is the designer of the PELVICORE Technique, an at-home program that helps women of all ages and levels of ability improve the tone and control of their pelvic floor muscles. The quick and easy 20-minute routine is produced by Core Wellness, an international pelvic fitness campaign sponsored by TENA® (formerly known as Serenity®), a leading provider of incontinence management products and services. The PELVICORE Technique is proven to both prevent and, in 60 to 70 percent of women with stress incontinence, cure bladder weakness.

Following are some tips from TENA for achieving optimal pelvic health:

• Don't Sweat It: More than 70 percent of mild bladder incontinence can be improved through simple muscle exercises that contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises require minimal effort and can be done anywhere-in the office, on the subway or while at home watching TV-no gym clothes required.

• Maintain a Normal Weight: Carrying excess weight increases the likelihood of weak pelvic floor muscles and can also worsen bladder weakness.

• Let Someone Else Do the Heavy Lifting: Lifting heavy objects incorrectly can weaken your pelvic floor. Lift heavy objects carefully by bending your knees and using your leg muscles.

• The Pelvic Health Diet: Certain foods, such as those that are spicy or tomato based, can irritate the bladder. Caffeine and alcoholic beverages can also contribute to leakage, so stick to bladder-friendly liquids such as water, apple juice, grape juice and cranberry juice.

• Don't Let Bladder Weakness Hold You Back: Bladder weakness affects one out of four women. You are not alone in this condition and it doesn't have to control your life. Pelvic floor exercises can greatly improve your pelvic health, but if you're still hesitant to stray too far from a bathroom, consider a discreet liner or pad to help give you confidence through the day. Visit www.tena.us for more tips and to check out all your available options.

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Ms. Wheelchair Georgia Seeks Contestants

2009-01-25T14:12:00.000-08:00

The Ms. Wheelchair Georgia Program is seeking contestants for the 2010 Ms. Wheelchair Georgia Pageant to be held in Calhoun, GA April 18th, 2009.

The winner of the Georgia pageant on April 18th will hold the title of "Ms. Wheelchair Georgia, 2010". She will represent Georgia from then until following year's pageant, and in the Ms. Wheelchair America 2010 Pageant 23-29 August, 2009, in Rapid City, South Dakota.

The Ms. Wheelchair Georgia Pageant has been held since 1972, and is affiliated with the Ms. Wheelchair America program. The purpose of the program is to provide an opportunity for women of achievement who utilize wheelchair to successfully educate and advocate for individuals with disabilities.

If you are a woman, a U. S. citizen between the ages of 21 and 60, use a wheelchair 100% of the time for community mobility and have been a resident of Georgia for at least six (6) months, you could be eligible to enter the competition. Marital status is not a consideration. For applications and info, Betty Taggart, State Pageant Coordinator and Ms. Wheelchair Georgia 1994, 706-602-1046; mattie04@bellsouth.net.

Click here to find out more about Ms. Wheelchair America
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Glamour and Fashion Return to the White House

2009-01-21T05:19:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- For the first time in 50 years, fashion returns to the White House. First Lady, Michelle Obama is the most visible and revered woman in the world, she has quickly become an International role model and fashion icon.

In recent months there has been constant speculation on what and whom Michelle Obama will be wearing.

Enter jewelry designer, Loree Rodkin, who was selected for three key moments; Election Night, The Inaugural Concert and Kids Inaugural Concert on The Disney Channel. It is fitting that Michelle Obama selected a female American based designer who attracts a clientele, which is strong, hard-working, feminine, independent, fearless and outspoken.

Undoubtedly, luxury brand strategists from around the world have had their sights set on dressing this historical First Lady. However, Michelle stayed true to her unique and independent voice by selecting Loree Rodkin's designs. Mrs. Obama was introduced to the jewelry brand through Chicago's premier luxury boutique Ikram, where she has been a longstanding client.

"It's a privilege to be a part of history," says Loree Rodkin. "The First Lady is a symbol of hope, courage and great style. I am honored that she has chosen my jewelry."

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Makeup Artist, Paige Padgett Predicts Top Beauty Trends for 2009

2009-01-20T08:12:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The overall makeup theme for 2009 is free-spirited, yet polished. There is a strong focus on texture and finish. New, high-tech products will create interesting finishes. The trend in cosmetic spending is eco-friendly. The buzz words in beauty are sustainable, ethical, organic and natural.

-- The Nude Face has come back in a variety of manifestations. But don't
assume it's seamless; from primers to a myriad of skin-preps, this is
makeup worked to the max. The face is flawlessly finished. This look
is highly groomed and uber sophisticated.

-- Gloss, Glitter, and Gossamer is a key beauty story this year. Cheeks
will glimmer with luminizer. Eyes will sparkle with glitter. Skin will
gleam with gloss.

-- Metallics create instant luxe. And who doesn't want that? Faces will
be drenched in gold, bronze, copper, and platinum.

-- Eco and Ethical is tipped for the greatest opportunity for growth.
Organic Monitor published late last year valued the global organic and
naturals market at $7bn, and forecast that it would surpass the $10bn
mark by the end of the decade.

-- India and China are setting trends. Cosmetic companies and consumers
alike are looking to authentic remedies from the East for beauty
inspiration such as traditional Chinese and Indian Ayurvidic Medicine.

Paige Padgett has been a successful makeup artist for more than 5 years. She has worked on TV shows including "Shear Genius 2," "The Biggest Loser," and the "Today" show. She has done work for Self Magazine, Nike, "Got Milk" campaign and developed a line of makeup for Randolph Duke for HSN, as well as working on the runways of Diane von Furstenberg and Badgley Mischka, to name a few. Paige has worked with the Environmental Media Association, is a contributing writer for Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa and is the beauty expert for JillianMichaels.com where she writes a green beauty blog.

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Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas

2009-01-19T09:46:00.000-08:00

(NAPSI)-Every woman has committed at least one fashion faux pas at some point in her life. Most are smart enough to acknowledge their mistake, take a moment to cringe and then swear to never do it again. Others, though, just keep right on mixing paisleys with stripes while their friends snicker.

Regardless of which group you fall into, a few tips from celebrity stylist Jorge Ramon can help keep you looking your best:

• Jean Queen-When sizing up jeans, remember this rule of thumb: Your back pockets should be about the size of your hand. Any smaller and they'll make your backside look bigger. Also, avoid detailing that could add width or bulk, and-no less important-keep in mind that uniform, dark washes de-emphasize curvier figures.

• Tight Squeeze-Yes, we know, the smug factor of being able to tell everyone you're wearing a size 4 is incredible-unless you're actually a size 8. Which is to say: People notice how your clothes fit, not what size they are. So forget the number on the tag and buy only what looks good on you. If your shirt is pulling at the chest or your pants pockets are puckering, that means they're too small.

• Staying Youthful-Like skin, clothes need to be kept looking "young." There are two new products out there called Tide Total Care and Downy Total Care, a detergent and a fabric softener that help keep your clothes looking like new. By combining the best of beauty and fabric care technologies, these products help protect the color and shape of clothing, wash after wash and wear after wear.

• Stand Tall-Make your legs look longer by having the hem of your pants fall to the top of your foot, covering most of your heel in back. And remember to show up at the tailor in the shoes you wear most often when you have pants hemmed.

For more information and tips, visit www.50washes.com.

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Take Control Of Your Heart Health With Four Simple Steps

2009-01-14T08:48:00.000-08:00

(NAPSI)-You have tremendous power to prevent heart disease--the #1 killer of women--and you can start right now.

One-third of women underestimate their own risk for heart disease and most fail to make the connection between risk factors and their chance of developing heart disease. In fact, if you have just one risk factor--such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking or being overweight--your risk of heart disease doubles.

The good news is that you can lower your risk of heart disease by as much as 82 percent by leading a healthier lifestyle. The Heart Truth, a national awareness campaign for women, has four simple weekly activities to help you take action to control your heart health. This month, get serious about your heart health by doing one of these suggested activities per week:

Week 1: Eat for heart health. Choose a diet low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol, and moderate in total fat. Prevent and control high blood pressure by cutting down on salt and other forms of sodium. In cooking and at the table, flavor foods with herbs, spices, wine, lemon, lime, vinegar or saltfree seasoning blends instead.

Week 2: Get moving. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity on most--preferably all--days of the week. Take a walk or dance to your favorite music. A little activity goes a long way in maintaining a healthy weight.

Week 3: Spread the word. Spread the heart health message to three women in your life. One in four American women dies of heart disease. Help those closest to you know their personal risk for heart disease by urging them to talk to their doctor about their blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and body mass index numbers.

Week 4: Set a heart health goal. Set one specific, achievable heart health goal for yourself to help keep up the good work throughout the year. It could be walking more, eating more foods high in fiber or quitting smoking.

The Heart Truth is a national campaign for women about heart disease sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The campaign introduced the Red Dress as the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness.

To learn more about women and heart disease, visit www.hearttruth.gov.

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DC Fashion Industry Welcomes the Michelle and Barack Obama to DC During Its Washington DC Fashion Industry and Young Professionals Inaugural Ball

2009-01-12T07:52:00.000-08:00

DC Fashion Industry Welcomes the Stylish Michelle and Barack Obama to DC During Its Washington DC Fashion Industry and Young Professionals Inaugural Ball

/PRNewswire/ -- Designers from the local Washington, DC fashion industry will roll out the red carpet to welcome the trendsetting Obamas to their city in the Washington DC Fashion Industry and Young Professionals Inaugural ball on January 20, 2009. The conglomerate of designers, photographers and design houses hosting the event include Xzuberance Clothing, BluBlink Photography, BiriBelle Clothing, Gediyon Kifle Photography, Kelly Catherine Jewelry, LC Beads and ZiZi Boutique.

Beginning at 9:30pm, the event will take place at the historic President James Monroe Mansion in Washington, DC, minutes from the White House and will feature a silent auction of products from hosts' lines, a live performance by 2009 Grammy nominated singer Wayna, cocktails, dinner, a champagne bar, a cigar bar, a celebrity DJ and dancing.

Members of the Miami, New York and LA fashion industries, including designers, models, celebrities and international fashion houses are being invited to join in the celebration at the DC Fashion Industry and Young Professionals Inaugural Ball.

The Obamas have made politics fashionable again, particularly the statuesque Michelle who has been compared to fashion icons Princess Diana and Jacqueline Kennedy. Michelle Obama, in particular, has also been praised for favoring and promoting American designers, and selecting to appear in clothing accessible to the average American woman.

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Web Sites Offer Creative Ways To Save

2009-01-10T06:47:00.000-08:00

GBB Note: Tips that can bring a smile on your face in this tough economy can be the best beauty secret!

(NAPSI)-Millions of Americans are feeling the pinch of a tight economy-and are pinching back by finding creative and no-nonsense ways to get more for their money. Here are some examples:

• Laundry loads. About 80 to 85 percent of the energy used for washing clothes is for heating the water. To reduce the amount of energy used for laundry, use less water and use cooler water. Switching your temperature setting from hot to warm can cut a load's energy use in half.

• Don't overspend on the Internet. Review your Internet service and make sure you're getting the best value for your money. If you mostly go online to check e-mail and surf the Net, switching to a dial-up ISP like NetZero that costs as low as $9.95 a month will do the job while saving you hundreds of dollars a year versus broadband.

• Host with the most. If you've ever considered putting up a Web site-for your home-based business, to pay tribute to your favorite band, to organize an event, etc.-you need more than just great content. To get your site up on the Web so the world can see it, you need Web hosting. While hosting services can be pricey, there are some, such as Freeservers.com, that offer a variety of packages-including one that's free.

• Shop with a list. Your shopping list is a road map to what you need. By sticking to it and avoiding impulse purchases, you'll save money.

• The power of coupons. Clipping coupons from your local newspaper, women's magazines and general-interest magazines can trim your grocery expenses. Take advantage of in-store coupon displays and even the machines that hand them out. In addition, Web sites such as FreeInternet.com link users up with coupons as well as free offers, product samples, free shipping and "buy one, get one free" deals.

• Get your just rewards. Programs such as MyPoints reward consumers for brand loyalty. You earn points when you shop, book travel, play online games, take surveys, search the Web and do other easy, everyday things. You can then redeem your points for gift cards, online certificates, gas cards, travel, dining and more-all from your favorite brands.

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Celeste Industries Corporation Recalls All Lots of simplySmart Remove Make Up Remover

2009-01-06T11:24:00.000-08:00

Celeste Industries Corporation has voluntarily recalled all lots of simplySmart™ "Remove" Make Up Remover in the US and Canada This product is packaged as a single towelette with hiexpress.com shown on the packet. This recall was a result of certain limited lots testing positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria.

The organism Pseudomonas aeruginosa may cause serious eye infections, respiratory infections, dermatitis, soft tissue infections, bacteremia, and a variety of systemic infections, particularly in patients who are immunosuppressed. Because the Make-Up Remover may be used in the area of the eye, there is a possibility that inadvertent introduction of the tainted product directly in the eye could result in serious eye infections.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. The issue was discovered after a consumer complained of an odor coming from the towelette packets.

This product is not sold in the retail market but is provided as a guest amenity at Holiday Inn Express® hotels in the United States in Canada.

Celeste Industries ceased production of the product on October 5, 2008 and subsequently notified the distributor and the Food and Drug Administration

Any hotel guests who may have taken the product are advised to not use the product and to destroy it immediately. Consumers who have used the product and have any concerns should contact a healthcare professional.

Celeste Industries has identified the source of the contamination and will take all necessary steps to prevent future contamination when production of the product is resumed.

Consumers with questions regarding the recall should contact Celeste Industries Corporation at 410-822-6200, ext 1349 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. EST and ask for Quality Assurance or e-mail at recall@celestecorp.com. This recall is being made in cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration.

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Stay Fit During Pregnancy

2009-01-06T08:53:00.000-08:00

GBB Note: Like we always say, there's nothing more beautiful than a healthy pregnant woman!

(NAPSI)-A world of benefits to you and your growing baby is at your feet...if, doctors say, you move those feet. Regular, moderate exercise-favorites include walking and water aerobics-can help reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes for some women; lessen pregnancy-related woes such as backache, bloating and constipation; increase energy; and improve mood.

"Even women who weren't exercising before becoming pregnant can start an exercise program," said Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, executive director of the National Women's Health Resource Center (NWHRC), long a trusted source for women's health information. "The key if you fall into this category is to check with your health care professional to ensure there are no medical reasons to avoid exercise."

Exercise Ideas

Some simple guidelines for exercising while pregnant include:

• Aim for 30 minutes of mild to moderate physical activity most days of the week. Women who have been inactive should start off slowly, with just a few minutes a day, and add five minutes a week until reaching the 30-minute level. Be sure to warm up, cool down and stretch.

• Moderate strength training helps your muscles and is safe for women who were doing such training before becoming pregnant.

• If you weren't exercising regularly before your pregnancy, low-impact exercises are probably best. Walking, riding a stationary bicycle, using an elliptical machine, swimming or taking a water aerobics class can be great ways to get active.

• After the first trimester, don't do exercises for which you must lie on your back.

• Exercise in the cooler parts of the day to protect yourself from overheating.

• Drink plenty of fluids.

"While exercise is good, women should avoid contact sports or those that require them to jump, change direction quickly or have a higher risk of falling," added Battaglino Cahill, naming soccer, basketball, tennis, skiing and horseback riding as examples.

More Tips

You can find more tips from the National Women's Health Resource Center on staying fit and healthy during pregnancy in the Pregnancy & Parenting Health Center at www.healthywomen.org.

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Organic Food and Beauty Items Still Not Mainstream According to Leading Marketing Research Firm

2009-01-02T06:34:00.000-08:00

GBB Note: There always seems to be stories prompting us to go "organic." The idea is great, but perhaps the industry as a whole needs to reassess the high consumer costs that go hand in hand with the word organic. Going all natural is tough in these economic times. I believe environmentally conscious women are willing to listen if a viable solution is offered....

/PRNewswire/ -- Despite all of the attention from the media and consumer products manufacturers, Organic Foods and Beauty Care items have still not gained mainstream acceptance by American consumers according to a recently released study by TABS Group, a leading Marketing Research and Consulting firm in the Consumer Products Industry. "There is a significant gap between the hype and reality of consumer purchase behavior with regards to Organic products," states TABS Group President and Founder, Dr. Kurt Jetta. "Less than 40% of Adults claim to have purchased anything from the major Organic categories in the last six months."

According to the study, Organic Fresh Fruit had the highest purchase incidence at 27%, with Organic Fresh Vegetables close behind at 26%. Organic Dairy Products, Eggs and Milk, were cited for purchase by 18% and 17% of US Adults, respectively. Frozen Organic products -- Vegetables, Fruit and Ice Cream -- had low purchase levels at 5-6%. Purchase levels for Organic Beauty Care products also had very low mainstream acceptance with stated purchase for Organic Skincare at 5% and Organic Hair Care and Cosmetics at 4% and 3%, respectively. By contrast, non-Organic products for all of the above categories have household penetration levels of well above 70%.

"The findings are consistent with trends we have been tracking in retailer sales data," commented Dr. Jetta. "Very few of these products have meaningful sales levels in traditional mass market retailers, even the ones that are very strong in the Natural Food and Specialty channels."

Dr. Jetta goes on to say that while a few retailers have had success with Organic products, most of the ones that have invested heavily in this trend will see a poor return on that investment. "Most of the sales growth in these channels has been driven by increased selection of Organic products rather than any inherent growth in consumer appeal."

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Women Using Compounded 'Bioidentical' Hormones Miss the Full Story About These Drugs

2008-12-31T08:52:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Women in, or past, menopause who use specially compounded "bioidentical" hormones to treat menopause-related symptoms, such as hot flushes, often don't get adequate information from compounding pharmacists about the drugs' risks and realistic potential for benefit. That's one of the concerns about these medications addressed by menopause expert JoAnn V. Pinkerton, MD, in "'Bioidentical' hormones: What you (and your patient) need to know," in the January issue of OBG Management.

So-called bioidentical hormones are chemically similar to hormones released by the body, including those produced in the ovaries -- estrone, estradiol, estriol, progesterone, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone, to name some.

"The FDA has approved many prescription products that contain 'bioidentical' hormones," says Pinkerton, "but 'bioidentical' is often used to refer to custom-compounded hormones. The major difference between FDA-approved prescription bioidentical hormone products and custom-compounded products is that only the former are regulated by the FDA and tested for purity, potency, efficacy, and safety."

"That means it's up to physicians who prescribe compounded hormones to educate their patients -- about potential risks and benefits, absence of FDA oversight, purity and potency concerns, and lack of peer-reviewed data on efficacy and safety," Pinkerton says.

"Practitioners need to recognize that women who ask for these hormones may be vulnerable -- because of anxiety and depression that often accompany menopausal symptoms -- to unsubstantiated claims or recommendations of self-proclaimed experts."

"Compounded hormones aren't safer, or more effective, than traditional FDA-approved hormone therapies," Pinkerton emphasizes. "No data support individualized, personalized therapy based on testing hormone levels in saliva. And compounded bioidentical hormones don't prevent cancer; they probably have the same potential to cause cancer, and present the same other health risks, as FDA-approved hormones."

Bioidentical hormones are one of the biggest products of the multibillion-dollar US pharmaceutical compounding industry, observes Bruce Patsner, MD, JD, who contributed to the OBG Management article. Patsner, an expert on pharmacy compounding of prescription hormone therapy, served as senior medical officer at the FDA and is now Research Professor of Law at the University of Houston Law Center.

JoAnn V. Pinkerton, MD, is Professor and Vice Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Virginia Health System in Charlottesville, where she directs The Women's Place Midlife Health Center. She is a member of the Board of Editors of OBG Management, a review publication for ObGyns (www.obgmanagement.com).

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A Chic Change-Transform Haircolor With Expert Tips And Quality Products

2008-12-24T07:18:00.000-08:00

(NAPSI)-It's easier than ever to make a commitment to achieving natural-looking haircolor with long-lasting benefits. Whether looking to enhance color, cover grays or change shades, there are a variety of award-winning products available today. According to Clairol Color Director Jason Backe, "Haircolor is one of the simplest ways to achieve a total makeover-it's an artistic expression of personal beauty and a great way to invest in your look." Backe, the go-to colorist for celebrities like Anne Hathaway and Kim Raver, and CEO of ted gibson salon, shares tips on affordable, high-quality haircolor makeovers.

What is the secret to at-home haircolor?

"Spending a few extra dollars at the shelf for products with guarantees and carefully crafted shade palettes will pay off in the long run. Haircolor should always be easy to apply and give a natural-looking, long-lasting result. I like Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy, one of the biggest beauty breakthroughs this year and a product with the benefits women crave. Perfect 10 gives high-gloss, high-shine color and 100 percent gray coverage in just 10 minutes. The patented comb applicator allows for quick, precise application and also gives full and even root-to-tip coverage."

How can I find a product and a shade that is right for me?

"When deciding between products, I recommend the award-winners or products featuring a beauty seal of approval from magazines like Allure. You know these products have been tried and proven effective by beauty experts. Haircolor shades should enhance your skin tone and complement your eyes. The shade should be within two shades-lighter or darker-of your natural color. Cool colors work best with pink and olive complexions while golden tones shine when paired with tan skin and light eyes or medium skin and dark eyes. This is especially important during the start of the year, when skin tones tend to need a boost."

What is the best way to apply haircolor?

"I prefer haircolor with non-drip formulas and easy-to-use tools such as applicator combs or brushes. Choosing a product with these tools will save you time and give a better end result. Start application near the nape of the neck and work to the front hairline. When touching up color, apply directly to the roots, hairline and temples."

What can I do for routine haircolor upkeep?

"To care for your new look, try a maintenance product that rids the part, temple and forehead areas of roots or pesky grays. A product like Nice 'n Easy Root Touch-Up, a best-in-beauty winner for root coverage, gets rid of pesky roots or grays in a snap! It works in just 10 minutes, easily fitting into morning routines."

Does color-treated hair need special maintenance or treatment?

"Treat haircolor with special care-like a favorite cashmere sweater. Haircolor stays fresh and maintains radiance and shine with a notable product like Pantene Pro-V Expressions Shampoo with Liquid Crystals. The Pro-Vitamin formula with patented liquid crystal technology creates a protective layer on the hair shaft that helps repel water and condition hair to help keep vibrant color radiant.

"Achieving a beauty transformation or routine upkeep can be affordable and effortless this year by choosing award-winning, high-quality products available in stores today," says Backe.

For more information about Allure magazine's "Best of Beauty" Award Winners-Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy, Nice 'n Easy Root Touch-Up, and Pantene Pro-V Expressions-please visit www.clairol.com and www.pantene.com/expressions.

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Make the Most Important Investment This Year -- Invest in Your Health

2008-12-23T02:09:00.000-08:00

(ARA) - Obesity is a mounting health problem locally and worldwide. More than 1 billion adults globally are overweight, and at least 300 million are obese, according to the World Health Organization.

Obesity not only takes a toll on personal health, it can inflict a huge monetary cost on individuals as well as the economy in general:

* When compared with their healthy-weight counterparts, healthcare spending among the obese is 37 percent higher, reports The Policy Journal of the Health Spheres.

* The rise in obesity contributed to the increase in spending related to diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Fortunately, a sustained 10 percent weight loss may reduce an overweight person’s lifetime medical costs by $2,200 to $5,300 by lowering costs related to hypertension and high cholesterol, among many other related illnesses. Additionally, sustaining a 5 to 10 percent weight loss over six months or longer has been shown to improve health by helping to:

* Lower the risk of heart disease.
* Reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
* Reduce the risk of some kinds of cancer.
* Reduce the strain on joints.

So if weight loss is your resolution this year, or you want to make an important investment in your health, consider an approach that is not just designed to take weight off, but to help you change your behavior.

Just in time for the new year, Weight Watchers has introduced the Momentum program which encourages smarter food and lifestyle choices. Your weight loss plans can absolutely stay on track in 2009, but it’s important to choose a weight-loss plan that truly teaches you how to make healthy, sustainable changes.

Here are Weight Watchers 10 Tips for a Healthy 2009:

* Look for low-calorie substitutions that don’t sacrifice taste. For example, switching from mayo to mustard can add to big calorie savings over time.

* Losing weight with a friend or group of friends really helps with weight-loss success.

* Ounce for ounce, the nutrition in fruits and vegetables can’t be beat. To get the best blend of nutrients, include as many colors as possible.

* Put a napkin over your plate as soon as you’re satisfied -- it’s like turning off a light switch.

* Purge unhealthy food from your pantry, freezer and fridge.

* Make physical activity as convenient as possible. Keep your sneakers and jacket ready and nearby for short, frequent walks.

* Try creating a new favorite dish. Visit www.weightwatchers.com for delicious recipe ideas.

* Wear something you feel fabulous in -- a compliment goes a long way in sustaining motivation.

* Set new goals to keep yourself motivated. Goals do not have to be weight related.

* Know what you’re doing. Write down what you’re eating each and every day to keep you on target.

To find out more, visit a Weight Watchers Meeting for free or go to www.weightwatchers.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Find the Perfect Pearls For Your Wedding Ensemble

2008-12-22T05:26:00.000-08:00

(ARA) – Pearls are the perfect wedding companion. Known by some as the “Queen of Gems,” the classic elegance of pearls transcends centuries and style fads. Nothing looks more beautiful with a bridal gown than a single strand of flawless pearls.

But pearls are not just for the bride -- they’re the perfect accessory for bridesmaids as well. Today, you can find pearls in shades ranging from the traditional white all the way through the color spectrum, including pink, green and even black, so they will coordinate with the wedding party’s dresses.

If you’re confused by the different types of pearls on the market, you’re not alone. “Pearls are classified according to their origin and their shape,” says Natalie Parman, vice president of merchandising at Jewelry TV. “Because of the wide variety of pearls available, you can choose a look and a price that is right for you.”

Pearls are formed when a foreign object enters the shell of a mollusk and triggers the release of nacre, which builds layer upon layer until a pearl is formed. Most pearls in retail stores today are cultured pearls. They are less expensive than natural pearls because they are mass-produced with the aid of technology. Instead of waiting for nature to take its course, pearl farmers insert an irritant and a nucleus (often a mother of pearl bead) into an oyster to speed up the process. Cultured pearls come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and many are dyed, which means you can find a wide range of colors.

Akoya cultured pearls are produced by the Akoya oyster found in the waters surrounding Japan. They are almost perfectly round and are well known for their high luster and rich color, which can range from white to cream, pink, green, silver and gold. These pearls can vary in size from between 2 millimeters to 10 millimeters. “Cultured Akoya pearls are the quintessential ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ strand in a creamy white color,” says Parman. “Multiple strands or choker styles are hot wedding trends.” Because they are affordable, cultured Akoya pearls also make great bridesmaids and mothers’ gifts.

South Sea cultured pearls are larger than Akoyas, usually more than 10 millimeters. Produced in the warm waters of the South Seas, they come mainly from Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. These pearls are usually white, yellow or gold. Due to their size and rarity, South Sea pearls are expensive. Exotic golden South Sea pearls in particular have gained popularity in the United States in recent years. “If you’re choosing a special strand of pearls for your wedding, this can be a good jewelry investment,” says Parman.

Tahitian pearls are produced in Tahiti, the Cook Islands and Mexico. They range in color from black, to aubergine, pistachio and many other colors, often with overtones of blue, pink or green. These pearls range between 8 and 15 millimeters and are highly valued because of their rarity. “Wear Tahitian pearls to your rehearsal dinner, or pack them as part of your honeymoon wardrobe,” says Parman.

When choosing pearls, look for nacre thickness and quality. Nacre quality determines how long the pearl will last as well as how light reflects through the pearls. Check for any cracks or peeling in the nacre. Also, look for how the pearls on a strand are matched. Pearl matching affects the value of the piece, as mismatched pearls are not as aesthetically pleasing. Finally, look for pearls that are individually knotted between each pearl instead of just strung one after the other -- that’s a sign of quality.

Whatever your jewelry wish for your wedding day, visit www.jtv.com for a great selection of pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Financial Woes Can Add To Health Concerns

2008-12-20T04:43:00.000-08:00

GBB Note: Part of women's beauty comes from taking care of themselves.

(NAPSI)-Financial problems may have an effect on the health of women and their families.

That's one of the key findings of a new survey that indicates many women have failed to seek health care for themselves or their families to save money. Findings also indicate that many women say their health has gotten worse over the past five years and that the primary cause women cite for this decline is stress.

"Today's financial crisis and increasing health costs are clearly impacting women's decisions around health care, and their physical and emotional well-being," said Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, executive director of National Women's Health Resource Center (NWHRC), which commissioned the survey. "It's hard to stay calm and relaxed given our hectic lives-even in the best of times. But women need to understand that skimping on health care to save them money may cost them more in the long run."

Conducted by Harris Interactive, the fourth annual, national Women T.A.L.K. survey found a significant number of women report making sacrifices in order to reduce their expenditures on health care and that their health is declining.

• Nearly half of women have failed to seek medical care in the past year because the cost was too high. This includes skipping doctor's visits, recommended medical procedures and medication for themselves or their families.

The study also showed that while women were most likely to put off doctor visits for themselves, they were least likely to put off doctor visits for their children.

• Hispanic women were most likely to have skipped health care in the past year.

• More than 40 percent of women report their health has declined over the past five years and the most common reasons given for this were stress and weight gain.

• At the same time, a solid majority of women reported a willingness to make lifestyle changes -such as improving their diet, exercising or eliminating smoking-if it would help lower their health care costs.

"Long-term stress and weight gain can significantly increase women's risk for other health problems," said Battaglino Cahill. "Women need help in managing stress and part of that equation is good nutrition and regular exercise. There are many simple, no-cost steps they can take to manage stress, including eating better, exercising, deep breathing, meditation and organizing and prioritizing activities."

For more tips on managing stress, visit www.healthywomen.org/wellness.

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Be Sun Smart All Year Round

2008-12-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

(NAPSI)-Many people think that summer is the only time to take caution with the sun, but sun protection is important year-round. While skiing or visiting warmer climates in the winter, it is important to remember to protect yourself.

Surprising to many sun-loving Americans is that 40 percent of the more than 250,000 new cases of squamous cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer) may be the result of ignoring a condition few people have ever heard of: actinic keratoses, or AKs. These are precancerous skin lesions that have the potential to progress to a more serious condition.

What Are AKs?

An AK is a small, crusty or scaly bump or horn that arises on or beneath the skin surface. The base may be light or dark, tan, pink, red or a combination of these, or the same color as the skin. The crust is horny, dry and rough. Occasionally, it itches or produces a pricking or tender sensation. It can also become inflamed and surrounded by redness. In rare instances, actinic keratoses can bleed.

Who Is At Risk?

• People 40 and over who have had chronic sun exposure; burn rather than tan in the sun; and spend large amounts of time in the sun without sunscreen are at higher risk for AKs. Doctors recommend a regular skin screening by a dermatologist. The good news is that AKs are treatable when identified-before they have the potential to progress to a more serious condition such as squamous cell carcinoma. One of the medications doctors use is Carac® (Fluorouracil Cream 0.5%), a topical cream that is safe and effective in the treatment of AKs. It is available by prescription and is the only topical with convenient "once daily dosing." Carac is indicated for the topical treatment of multiple actinic or solar keratoses of the face and anterior scalp.

Important Safety Information

Carac should not be used by women who are pregnant, considering becoming pregnant, or nursing. Carac should not be used by people with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency. The most common side effects are skin reactions including redness, dryness, burning, pain, erosion (loss of upper layer of skin), swelling and eye irritation. For more information, visit www.carac.info.

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Five Anti-Aging Tips Under $5

2008-12-18T11:10:00.000-08:00

(NAPSI)-Let's face it. A youthful appearance often comes at a price, and in these tough economic times, many are slowing down on their spending. A recent consumer confidence poll indicates that 59 percent of women have cut spending on cosmetics and 55 percent decreased their skin care purchases.

But according to celebrity makeup artist and beauty consultant Mickey Williams, one need not sacrifice beauty to save some bucks. While many celebrity clients pay hundreds to look like a million, she says similar results can be achieved with $5 or less.

"By simply changing a beauty technique or looking at products beyond the medicine cabinet, you can make a real difference in achieving a more youthful appearance at a reasonable price," said Williams. "Also, beauty buys can be had at your local drugstore. For example, Blistex Deep Renewal is a new lip treatment that contains advanced ingredients found in high-end anti-aging products, but at a fraction of the cost."

For those who want to dip into the fountain of youth without getting soaked in high costs, Williams suggests the following five anti-aging tips for under $5:

• Raid your pantry. People underestimate the aging power of stained teeth. Many teeth-whitening products are available, but nothing is more affordable and effortless in restoring your pearly whites than baking soda. Simply mix baking soda with water or your favorite minty toothpaste and brush right onto your teeth.

• Give some lip service. A slip from lips isn't the only thing that can reveal age. Fine lines and wrinkles on lips add years to the face. Keep lips looking young by moisturizing them regularly with lip balm containing SPF-15 sun protection. Also consider looking for an anti-aging lip product, such as Blistex Deep Renewal, that offers hyaluronic acid to improve skin condition and give lips a fuller appearance, and co-enzyme Q-10 for moisturization and overall revitalization. It's clinically proven to reduce the length and depth of lines and wrinkles on lips.

• Lighten up. White eyeliner eliminates the red rim that creates a tired and aged look. Gently apply a white or beige liner to the inner rim of eyes for an immediate pick-me-up and eye brightener.

• Tame the tweezing. Not only are fuller, thicker eyebrows all the rage this season, they also push the rewind button on an overall look. If brows are over-tweezed or thin by nature, use a light blond or taupe pencil-regardless of skin color-to create an illusion of a light shadow for a more natural look.

• Use concealer correctly. Using a lightweight concealer as a spot corrector is one of the best ways to hide bags and discoloration and ultimately erase years from your appearance.

"Spending less never looked so good," said Williams. "Smart shopping and correct application are things of beauty, especially in these tough economic times."

For more information on lip care tips, visit Blistex.com.

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