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May 2, 2017

15 Ways to Look Glamorous on the Cheap

How can you look glamorous when all you have in your closet are cheap clothes? Is it even possible? Many people try to avoid high-end occasions when they have nothing expensive to wear. You do not need to skip any event or occasion. You just need to know how to work with what you have in your wardrobe to look elegant. When you are going through a tough financial season, you cannot afford to buy expensive clothes. However, you can add a few pieces that will give any cheap outfit an expensive look. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Buy Heavy Jewelry

One classic way to look expensive in any outfit is accessorizing it with jewelry. If you are living on a budget, you may not be able to afford expensive jewelry either. The trick here is to choose the right earrings, necklaces, charm lockets, and bangles. Even cheap accessories can look glamorous if you pick the right pieces. Choose heavy and darker metals over light metals. Vintage metals never go out of fashion and look good with most outfits. Shiny metals will make your outfit look even cheaper. You can also add a classic leather watch to your look.

2. Invest in a Steamer

You may have heard that hanging your clothes in the bathroom while you take a hot steamy shower removes the wrinkles. If you have tried this before, you know it does not work. Ironing your clothes will take much of your time. You also risk damaging some fabrics. Buy a good steamer and always steam your clothes the night before. Wrinkled clothes look cheap and old. Never give an excuse for wearing a wrinkled outfit.

3. Tailor Your Outfit

Buying an expensive outfit does not automatically make you look glamorous. You can look cheap in an expensive outfit that does not fit you perfectly. The truth is that you will not always get clothes that fit your curves perfectly. Most of the expensive designs have cheaper alternatives. If you buy the cheaper design, take it to your tailor to have it customized for body shape. No one will be able to tell the difference between a cheap and expensive dress if it fits you perfectly. Never wear oversized clothes. If you lose some weight or notice the size is slightly bigger after ordering, take the outfit to a tailor immediately.

4. Invest in a Quality Handbag

You carry your handbag wherever you go. A classic, sturdy handbag is a must-have even when you are shopping on a budget. Save some money and buy your dream handbag. Go for a color that matches most of your outfits and shoes. Matching your shoes and handbag makes you look fabulous. Take good care of your signature handbags. Re-stuff structured handbags before storing them to maintain their shape. You can use your body lotion to keep your leather bag looking shiny as long as it is unscented.

5. Buy Fabulous Classic Coats

A quality classic jacket will make any outfit glamorous instantly. Buy several of such jackets and play around with the dresses in your wardrobe. One good thing about classic jackets is that they do not go out of fashion. You can wear them in any season, especially for an evening occasion and stand out. Some of the classic looks that will never go out style include belted trench coats, denim jackets, black pea coats, and black leather jackets among others. Buy as many of these as you can. You will always have a new look every day.

6. Pay Attention to the Details

Inspect your outfit carefully before wearing it. Check for loose threads, stains, hanging hems and loose buttons. Replace any missing buttons and trim loose threads. If you find stains, take the outfit to a dry cleaner if you cannot remove the stain at home without damaging the fabric. Throw away torn outfits and those with holes, however tiny they may be. Do not be fooled. Even the tiniest holes and stains will make you look cheap. Another great tip is to replace simple buttons with expensive looking buttons. For instance, you can replace plastic buttons with metal, pearl, or bone buttons.

7. Avoid Excess Makeup

You do not need too much makeup to look glam. Keep your makeup minimal and choose neutral colors for nail polish. Chipped nail polish is simply unacceptable. A touch of concealer, berry lips, well-done eyebrows, and rosy cheeks will do the trick. Ensure that you pick the right tone and hue of makeup for your skin color. Ask for help if you are unsure or just to confirm that you have the right products.

8. Avoid Washing Your Fabrics When Possible

Keeping outfits clean is necessary, but washing them every other day weakens the fabric. Excess washing makes the fabrics look cheap and old. The color will fade as well. One way to keep your outfit clean is to spot clean them with a toothbrush or sponge. Most of the marks on them will disappear after a few touches. If you do not like the smell, place the outfit in the freezer overnight. The smell will be gone by morning.

9. Tuck Your Shirt

A quality shirt with a matching trouser or skirt is a classic look for the office or a formal meeting. If you like this look, try tucking in your shirt instead of leaving it loose. Tucking a shirt gives you a polished look no matter the price of the shirt. You can go for matching colors or the classic monochrome look. The best colors for the monochrome look are navy, black, and white. You probably have all these items in your wardrobe. Try wearing them differently for a classy look.

10. Pick the Right Colors

Did you know that some colors can make you look dated and cheap? If you are trying to pick a few outstanding outfits, stay away from earthy colors. Earth tones give you a dated look even if the fabric is of high quality. Choose pastels and jewel tones over earthy tones to give your wardrobe a vibrant and glamorous look. Go for black in place of brown outfits. If you prefer prints and patterns for a different look, go for leopard spots. This print never goes out of fashion.

11. Buy a Fresh Fragrance

Your scent or fragrance should make your outfit. You do not buy a new perfume every other day and hence it is advisable to invest in a good scent. Apply your perfume directly on your skin and not on your clothes or hair. Start applying the perfume on the lower part of the body because heat rises up your body. You can also spray some on your wrist, neck or elbows. Use unscented body lotion and moisturizers to avoid a mixture of fragrances.

12. Keep Your Style Simple

Whether you are choosing clothes, charm lockets, bracelets, or earrings, keep your style simple. You may end looking cheap if you try too hard to impress. Cheap embellishes or detailed clothes will not give you the desired glamorous look. Instead, such cheap designs will make you look dated and cheap. Choose vintage or classic designs that suit your body shape. When choosing your jewelry, do not combine several cheap pieces. Instead, buy one outstanding piece. It may be inexpensive, but it is better than several cheap accessories put together.

13. Wear the Right Undergarments

Cheap clothes are often flimsy and sometimes ill-fitting. Panty and bra lines will make your cheap outfit look worse. The lines become the focus of your outfit instead of your dress or pants. Give every outfit a smooth silhouette beneath to make it look better and elegant. Pick the right size and material for your undergarments to avoid the distracting bra and panty lines.

14. Avoid Distressed Pieces

Sometimes distressed fabrics look dated and worn out, especially if they are extremely cheap. Stay away from such fabrics as much as possible. However, you can still wear some distressed fabrics without looking cheap. For instance, ripped jeans look trendy while distressed denim often looks cheap. A well-distressed design takes time and is expensive in most cases.

15. Buy Natural Fabrics

Manmade fabrics are cheaper than natural fabrics. Most cheap clothes are made of synthetic fabrics, but you can find a few good pieces in natural fabrics. Wearing natural fabrics gives you a more polished look. The fabrics are also more comfortable on your skin than synthetic fabrics. However, you need to take good care of natural fabrics to maintain their polished look.

Conclusion

Any cheap outfit in your closet can look expensive if you wear it with the right accessories, jacket, shoe, and hair. Your choice of color, fabric, and fragrance makes you look either expensive or cheap. The good news is that you do not need to spend a lot of money to look glamorous. You may have all the items you need lying in your wardrobe.

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May 1, 2017

I keep CeraVe by my Side at all times

When I write about skincare products, especially facial products, I always say “consistency” is the key. Using a product will often give you immediate results but if you are not consistent with them, you won’t have long term results which is key. I have been using CeraVe Skincare for several years now, it’s one of my favorites but I am not consistent which is not good. My skin is often dry. To combat this I have two CeraVe products which are working wonders for me. CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cram with Sunscreen and CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil. 

CeraVe Day Cream is great because now that spring is in the air I will be spending more time outdoors and the CeraVe Day Cream is the perfect treatment after washing my face. It contains sunscreen and 3 essential ceramides, niacinamide & hyaluronic acid. Skin Renewing Day Cream is lightweight, odorless and works well on my face, neck and hands too. CreaVe Day Cream will help prevent sunburn and when used according to the directions, decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. I keep this Day Cream in the kitchen so I always have it handy when I need it throughout the day. This also helps with consistency because when I have it on hand, I tend to use it often which helps with the positive results I want to achieve.

I don’t use facial oils that much but I must admit, I like them. CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil is one of them. I use this oil at night before bed and in the morning before applying moisturizer. It is a non greasy formula and my skin is hydrated throughout the night. CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil is formulated with Ceraplex, a unique 5-ceramide & sunflower blend. Apply by dotting small amounts where needed and smooth over your skin until it is absorbed. If you find your skin dry, you won’t find it that way for long.

CeraVe has other fantastic skincare and you can find it all at www.cerave.com. You can find a store near you by clicking here

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May 1, 2017

Why Exercise? I’m Not talking about the obvious reasons

Believe it or not, some people in this day and age still don’t exercise.  I know it’s hard to believe, with all the promoting of good health and a gym on just about every corner. However, people still walk pass them to get to the fast food spot next door.  I am going to jump on the band wagon and tell you how important exercise is to you.  When you exercise, you change your body, mind, attitude and mood.  Let me start with how it changes your body.  I am not going to state the obvious like weight loss, tone and build muscle.   I am going to tell you about the things you may not notice.

Exercise can boost your sex drive. If you want to rev up your sex life get into the gym.  Not only will you be more flexible, you will also have more stamina in bed.  Exercise causes the brain to produce endorphins that stimulate the release of sex hormones and when men lift weight it increases testosterone.  Work out together and double the effects.

Exercise can improve your skin. When you exercise, you work up a sweat and that sweat is pushing all the built-up toxins out of your system.  So, make sure you wash your face when you are done with your workout.  Exercise increases your blood flow which carries oxygen and nutrients to your skin and increases skins production of collagen.  Exercise can help you fight off wrinkles and have that healthy glow.

Confidence booster – When you exercise on a regular basis you tend to stand a little taller.  You feel stronger, your energy level increases and just by sticking to an exercise plan gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Go ahead and visit your local gym you can make several changes in your life.  We know the obvious changes that occur are weight loss, tone and building muscles, but now you know you are doing far more than that.  Boost your sex life, make that skin radiant and push that chest out in pride you deserve it.

Get more info about Elizabeth Colen, Confidence Coach on www.MsFitOne.com.  Fit Mind, Fit Body and Fit Spirit

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April 12, 2017

7 SMART NATURAL METABOLISM BOOSTERS

It’s a frustrating scenario. You eat right and exercise yet you have gained weight or cannot shed weight. You may have inherited your mom’s slow-motion metabolism, but the good news is; you’re not stuck with it. Research shows you can trick your body into burning calories more efficiently, especially if you hit the gym. “By strength-training just a couple of times a week, for example, you’ll reverse 50% of the seemingly inevitable metabolism slow-down that comes with age, says Dr. Christopher Calapai a New York City Osteopathic Physician board certified in family and anti-aging medicine. Here Dr. Calapai shares 7 Metabolism boosters that don’t require a visit to an endocrinologist or a prescription.

  1. Value food as fuel and eat.

If you want to weigh less, you’ve got to eat less, right? Wrong! If you take in too few calories, it can cause your body to lose muscle mass and decrease your metabolic rate. Plus, when you skimp on calories, your body slows the calorie burn rate to conserve the fuel it’s got. “Under-fueling is just as risky as over-fueling,” says Dr. Calapai. “In an attempt for quick, noticeable weight loss, many people wrongfully believe that eating as few calories as possible is the best solution. Not only can this lead to numerous nutritional deficiencies as the body is getting less food overall, it can actually have the opposite effect on weight loss.”

  1. Mix up your workouts.

When it comes to the best workouts for weight loss, neither weights nor cardio can completely move the needle on their own. Interval training is the best way to shed pounds, increase your metabolism, improve your cholesterol profile, and improve insulin sensitivity. Turn your favorite aerobic exercise, (running, biking, even walking) into an interval workout by adding periods of intense speed (start with 30 to 60 seconds) followed by periods of rest (normal speed) for the same amount of time. Do this six to 10 times to complete a fat-slashing workout. As you get better, slowly increase the amount of time of increased intensity.

  1. Become best friends with breakfast.

Commit to starting the day with a good breakfast. What should you be having? Morning munchies that are slow to digest and leave you feeling fuller longer. Try a mix of lean protein with complex carbohydrates and healthy fats. Fresh fruit, egg whites, steel cut oatmeal, Greek yogurt, fiber rich cereals are things to grab for. “You’re not kick starting your metabolism if you have coffee for breakfast. Skipping breakfast puts the body in starvation mode slowing your metabolism to a crawl to conserve energy,” says Dr. Calapai.

  1. Spice up your diet.

It turns out capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their mouth-searing quality, can also fire up your metabolism. Eating about one tablespoon of chopped red or green chilies boosts your body’s production of heat and the activity of your sympathetic nervous system (responsible for our fight-or-flight response), according to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology. The result is a temporary metabolism spike of about 23 percent. Stock up on chilies to add to salsas, and keep a jar of red pepper flakes on hand for topping pizzas, pastas, and stir-fries.

  1. Drink green tea.

If you always opt for coffee over tea, you could be missing out on a major metabolism boost. In a recent 12-week study, participants who drank 4-5 cups of green tea daily, then did a 25-minute workout, lost an average of two more pounds and more belly fat than the non-tea-drinking exercisers. What’s is its magic? The brew contains catechins, a type of antioxidant that triggers the release of fat from fat cells and helps speed the liver’s capacity for turning fat into energy.

  1. Snack smart all day.

It sounds counterintuitive. Why would you eat continually if you wanted to lose weight? Eating five to six mini meals, portioned to fit on the size of a salad plate, rather than three larger meals every day, keeps your metabolism going. “Snacking every 2 hours will also prevent you from going without food so long that you become so hungry that you overeat,” says Dr. Calapai. “Try not to let more than 4 hours elapse between meals and make sure each meal includes protein, for an extra metabolic boost,” he adds. If you eat a high-fiber breakfast of cereal and fruit first thing, for example, have a midmorning snack, such as yogurt and fruit; for lunch (try four ounces of chicken or fish on top of a leafy green salad); then another snack late afternoon, like a banana and a piece of low-fat cheese. Dinner is then a lighter meal for example four to six ounces of turkey, salmon, or another lean source of protein with steamed veggies.

  1. Get a good night’s sleep.

Lack of sleep is linked to a major increase in the risk of obesity. This may partly be caused by the negative effects of sleep deprivation on metabolism. Lack of sleep has also been linked with increased blood sugar levels and insulin resistance, which are both linked to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes It’s also been shown to boost the hunger hormone ghrelin, and decrease the fullness hormone leptin This could explain why many people who are sleep deprived feel hungry and struggle to lose weight.

About the Doctor:

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the “The Stem Cell Guru” by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson’s. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham’s, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers. Connect with him via twitter @drcalapai or at www.drcal.net

 

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March 30, 2017

Beauty “Wonders” and Gadgets on Your Carolina

About and where to buy all of the items that Enya Flack of It’s a Glam Thing will feature on 3/31 on Your Carolina with Jack and Megan…

juvalips

(Photo: myjuvalips.com )

Pura d’or Instant Eye Lift Cream with Pure 24K gold Nanoparticles of gold are suspended in the formula!
• Helps firm and lift while tightening to diminish puffiness and under eye bags
• Helps smooth crow’s feet and fine lines
• Hydrates with deep moisturization to provide long lasting effects
• Hyaluronic Acid provides hydration by retaining moisture that gives skin a youthful appearance
• Rice Bran Extract & Antioxidants help protect and fight free radicals
• Sweet Almond Seed Extract nourishes, creating smoother skin
• Argan Oil extreme moisturization
• Gold radiates and rejuvenates skin
After thoroughly cleansing your face, dispense one pump of the Revitalizing Eye Cream onto your fingertip. Gently pat around and under eye area until fully absorbed. Can be used under makeup. For best results, use twice daily.
$49.99 www.purador.com

WUNDERBROW is a one-step solution to eyebrow shape and hair loss. The exclusive Permafix Technology and proprietary Hair Fiber Complex creates the perfect brow in under 2 minutes that will last for days – in fact, it’s clinically proven to be water resistant and transfer-proof WUNDERBROW formula contains an exclusive blend of hair-like fibers, combined with specially treated pigments designed to fasten onto skin and hair. There are 5 shades to choose from.
Use WUNDERBROW DUAL PRECISION BRUSH – a dual-ended brush too. It’s ideal to. The firm bristled, angled side works perfectly with precision and enables you to mimic fine ‘hair like’ strokes on the brow. Use the spoolie to brush through and groom brows and also soften and smooth out as a final step. $22, wunder2.com
http://www.wunder2.com/us/tips-videos.aspx

Kawaii Girl Cosmetics Human Hair Faux lashes. With proper care these lashes can be worn up to 20 times. They are hand crafted and designed to be ultra-lightweight for a full day of comfortable wear. All human hair lashes are set on clear bands for flexible application.

Roppongi: Roppongi is an eye catching, medium volume, long length human hair lash. Like the popular Tokyo nightlife district, you’re sure to be noticed when sporting a pair of these lashes!

Ginza: Ginza is a light volume, long length human hair lash that is perfect for a day out in Tokyo’s toniest shopping district. Ginza is one of the lightest lashes in the Kawaii Girl debut “Tokyo Collection”.

Kanda: Kanda is a demi-flare human hair lash that is the perfect complement to a bold eye or a pop of color with a red lip. These are ideal for date night or a special occasion!
All human hair lashes retail for $12. http://www.kawaiigirlcosmetics.com

Now let’s get to some beauty tools/gadgets!!

Yearning for fuller, kissable lips? Get that gorgeous plump pout you’ve always wanted– easily, instantly and naturally with JuvaLips! This new beauty tool will give you visibly fuller lips without expensive lip injections, painful topical acids or fillers. The results are fabulous!
This safe solution is speedy – it only takes minutes. Add that pop of color to your kisser while you prime your pout naturally with this innovative lip treatment. By boosting blood flow, JuvaLips delivers amazing results without painful topical acids or fillers. Whether you’re headed to work or gearing up your glam for a night out with the girls, get the luscious lips you’ve always wanted!
https://myjuvalips.com/ ($129.95)

How it works: https://myjuvalips.com/how-to-plump-lips/

As seen on the Drs. (Video here: http://www.thedoctorstv.com/articles/3833-plumper-lips-in-just-minutes)
SweetCheeks This Cellulite Massage Mat builds a therapeutic 30 minute massage into your day while simply relaxing at home in your favorite chair! Sit on your SweetCheeks and reap endless benefits including immediate increase of local circulation, reduction in the appearance of cellulite, relief of minor aches and pains, and more! Available colors are Cool Gray, Midnight Black, Smoke Gray, Turquoise, Turquoise + Gray, Red + Midnight Black, Pink, and Purple.
As seen on The Drs. Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVA7Gj4RlzI
$99.99, www.sweetcheeksproducts.com

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March 27, 2017

Different Types Of Kurtas To Complement Your Style

When it comes to traditional dressing for Indian men, nothing blends with such perfection as the sherwani-dhoti duo. It definitely offers the deadliest combination to create amazing brilliance in terms of elegance and niche tastes of the Indian culture.

Apart from sherwani dhoti, another traditional Indian style for men is the kurta-pajama option. This is another evergreen dressing option for men, which never goes out-of-fashion. Wearing the right kurta pajama would not only make your appearance dapper, but also super rocking during those summer days.

Speaking of kurtas, there are different types available. Have a look:

HyderabadiKurta Pajama

It is the perfect classical option to start with. An all-time favorite, this option comes with thread-work spread around the collar and holes to insert buttons. These kurta-pajama jodis are the best for any event, be it a small get-together or attending a reception party, or some auspicious ceremony.

Punjabi Kurtas

These are the traditional dress code of Punjabis, mostly Sikhs. These types of kurtas are basically straight-cut and come down to the knee-length. They are available in the plain or the embroidered style. Speaking of the embroidery style, they are divided into 3 styles: Phulkari, Bandhani and Muktsari. The Phulkari style features flower embroidery patterns, the Bandhani style comes with bandhani patterns, and Muktsarikurtas are named primarily due to their area of origin, i.e. Muktsar.

SherwaniKurtas

This type of a kurta is designed exclusively for high-end parties and wedding events. They are designed in different styles and fits. They are mostly available in monochromes of white, red, and black. They are also available in pattern-based embroidery prints. The deep-cut sherwanis blend perfectly, with skin-tight churidars.

BhopaliKurtas

Are you from the Royal Bhopal families? These kurtas are the traditional attire of Bhopal Royal family during the British era. These days, they have become a popular fashion statement for the Gen-X. With certain modifications in cutting and texture, these garments are catching the attention of people. If you are looking for a gaudy, yet light attire, simply opt for a BhopaliKurta, with tapered churidar to create that perfect royal look. You can complement your dressing by including a contrasting colored shawl.

LucknowiKurtas

When you discuss kurtas, overlooking the Lucknowi style would be a serious sin. These are light in weight and are embroidered, with the famous LucknowiChikan. The best embroidered Lucknowikurtas can be extremely expensive and create a nawabi look at parties and weddings.

When wearing kurtas, focusing on the bottom wear is crucial. Instead of the lose-pitted pajamas, you can swap them with tight-fitted tapered churidars for a more dashing look.Kurtas can be also paired, with slim-fit chinos and khaki trousers. The traditional Indian kurtas can also be worn, with light-washed denim trousers or printed pants. But, when selecting the footwear, opt for loafers or stylish moccasins. Make more impactful dressing, with the inclusion of a Nehru Jacket or a Modi Coat. The color of jacket/coat should be perfectly contrasting to the basic attire. Beige, brown, and black are often preferred in these cases.

Author Bio: Emma Gold is a fashion designer. She has worked, with several renowned brands. She has designed some ethnic Indian kurta and sherwani for men.

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March 23, 2017

From the Pros: Stretch Mark Solutions…What Can Be Done Safely?

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Women of all ages regardless of height, weight, or parental status are susceptible to stretch marks. This is a simple fact. Another fact, which will hopefully make you feel a bit better, is that supermodels yes, the bikini models you see in Sports Illustrated and Victoria’s Secret, have stretch marks. If you’re like the 95% of the women out there you prefer them gone. Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic in for Cosmetic Surgery in Philadelphia who has appeared on national programs such as Good Morning America and 20/20 offering insights on cosmetic surgery, shared the real deal on stretch mark solutions with several facts on popular procedures and topical options to prevent and remove stretch marks. Here’s what he has to say.

Option #1: Topical Creams & Preventative Foods

“There are a variety of topical treatments, the ones with cocoa butter are the trend, but they won’t do much if anything to improve severe stretch marks. These creams and oils perform better when used as preventive measures because fully developed stretch marks are rarely skin-deep,” explains Dr. Brandow.

Gelatin powder has been suggested as a great way to get more collagen into your system. Coconut oil mixed with beeswax is said to prevent stretch marks especially when applied throughout the day. Eating foods rich in vitamin C can help prevent stretch marks from the inside out. Adding things like red peppers, parsley, broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts are good bets.

Option #2: Lasers

Many women who have post pregnancy stretch marks turn to lasers to eliminate this unwanted scarring. Kim Kardashian recently announced via her Snapchat that she would undergo laser treatments to rid her stretch marks. The Coolbeam laser, which is the one Kim Kardashian is going with, requires up to 5 treatments at around $5,000 per treatment which adds up to $25,000. Lasers are known for high level of safety and efficacy and most patients come away very pleased with the result. The treated area heals rather quickly, within a week to three week

“Lasers are far less invasive than a tummy tuck, which has a much longer recovery time. Lasers do have some risk in that they can burn the skin or cause tissue damage. Therefore, it’s very important to choose a doctor who knows what they are doing,” advises Dr. Brandow.

Option #3: Platelet Rich Plasma with Micro-needling

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) has been around for the past two decades and used to help athletes like Tiger Woods and Alex Rodriquez recover from injury. A few years ago, the “Vampire Facial” made headlines when Micro-needling was added to the procedure offering a vibrant, smooth, flawless complexion. The results were so great that cosmetic surgeons started to explore other parts of the body such as stretch marks on the buttocks, breast, arms, thighs and abdomen.

This calls for blood to be taken from the patient then put into a machine that separates the platelet rich plasma from the blood. It is then spread over the face after the micro-needling is completed. The micro-needling is a process where a pen-like tool with several tiny needles at the tip is carefully guided over the affected area making microscopic holes on both the outer and inner layers of skin. These holes are so small that they heal within a few hours. The process triggers a healing response in the dermis layer which is what causes the fast fading of stretch marks. Doctors recommend micro-needling with PRP over any other treatment because the results are significant and the cost is about $1000 per session. “Micro-needling with PRP is a combination that offers a fast, in office option, with excellent results and is less costly than lasers,” explains Dr. Brandow who was recently on TV speaking of the procedure.

Dr. Brandow adds that the advantage of micro-needling with PRP for stretch marks over lasers is a lesser chance of scarring and skin discoloration. “Skin on the body is more susceptible to hyperpigmentation than on the face making Micro-needling is a safer option for ethnicities with varying skin tones. This is a big advantage over cool beam lasers, IPL or chemical peels,” he explains.

Option #4: The Tummy Tuck

This is the gold standard offering the best results however it’s invasive and the recovery time is longer. Known as abdominoplasty, the procedure removes excess skin in the abdominal region and tightens the muscles. The stretch marks below the belly button are discarded along with the excess skin. “The tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that comes with risk so typically candidates must be non-smokers in good physical health as certain they will not want more kids after surgery. It’s is the only option for complete and permanent stretch mark removal. Recovery time can be up to 6 weeks and again it is critical that one chooses a reputable doctor. A botched tummy tuck can lead to off-centered belly buttons, long thick scars, and dangerous infections,” warns Dr. Brandow.

Ultimately stretch marks are an unfortunate reality that comes with pregnancy, puberty and any other weight or muscle gain where the skin is stretched. There are preventative measures one can take. Be very weary of anything that seems too good to be true and always consult with a credentialed doctor when considering any kind of cosmetic procedure. 

About the Doctor:

Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery is a plastic surgeon with 2 locations in the Philadelphia metro area and a 3rd one at the jersey shore. Named a “Top Doc” in Plastic Surgery by Philadelphia Magazine as well as nationally recognized for one of America’s “Best Plastic Surgeons” of this decade, Dr. Brandow is a trusted expert who has developed many innovative, minimally invasive procedures for the face, body and skin. He has been featured on local, national and international television programs including 20/20, CNN’s Headline News, Good Morning America.

 

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March 13, 2017

Today on Good Day Charlotte

GDC Enya table display 3 17

FOX 46 Good Day Charlotte

Enya Flack of It’s a Glam Thing presents “Beauty: Gadgets & more”

Dr. Marder’s Total Relief Shampoo and Total Relief Conditioner was developed by a dermatologist. Some people get dandruff and others don’t. Some men and women may even suffer from scalp psoriasis. Total relief Shampoo and Conditioner can improve scalp psoriasis in just one week for some people. Dr. Marder’s Total Relief™ Shampoo & Conditioner line is formulated without sulfates or common irritants. The shampoo and conditioner are formulated with natural extracts and antioxidants such as citric acid, coriander fruit oil and essential vitamins. What makes Dr. Marder’s Total Relief™ Shampoo different from all other products is the addition of maximum strength cortisone. The conditioner contains Zinc Pyrithyone. This is good for by everyone not just dandruff and psoriasis suffers. It leaves hair soft and scalp healthy. www.drmarderskincare.com $30 each

Once you have got your hair looking great, you might want to try some new styling like hair crimping. We love the CHI Onyx Euroshine Crimper. Use it for volume and fun looks. CHI Onyx Euroshine 1” Onyx Ceramic Crimping Iron provides volume and texture to create unique styles. The 1” Onyx ceramic Iron’s micro-ridged crimping plates produce noticeably shinier results. In addition, the preset temperature settings offer easily recognizable and customizable temperature selection per hair type. It provides a tight crimped pattern that can create volume at the roots and adds the ultimate texture pattern to any hairstyle. Hair Crimping was huge in the 80s and is back! You can crimp all of your hair or part of your hair. There are so many style options and crimping works on almost any hairstyles. Guys are crimping now too. https://chi.com/product/chi-onyx-euroshine-1-crimping-iron/

Get those eyebrows cleaned up with LA-Tweez Professional Illuminating Tweezers with a Diamond Dust Tip. Illuminating Tweezers crafted from the finest stainless steel, the hand filed tips are perfectly aligned and guaranteed to tweeze. The ultra-bright LED light illuminates your eyebrows and allows you to see those hard to reach hairs. Perfect for both home and on the go, the chic compact carrying case has a built-in magnifying mirror. Available in Black, Gold and Red. $32 http://www.latweez.com/

Sporting newly cleaned up brows is great, especially when you follow it up with WUNDERBROW one-step solution to eyebrow shape and hair loss. The exclusive Permafix Technology and proprietary Hair Fiber Complex creates the perfect brow in under 2 minutes that will last for days – in fact, it’s clinically proven to be water resistant and transfer-proof WUNDERBROW formula contains an exclusive blend of hair-like fibers, combined with specially treated pigments designed to fasten onto skin and hair. There are 5 shades to choose from. Use WUNDERBROW DUAL PRECISION BRUSH – a dual-ended brush too. It’s ideal to. The firm bristled, angled side works perfectly with precision and enables you to mimic fine ‘hair like’ strokes on the brow. Use the spoolie to brush through and groom brows and also soften and smooth out as a final step. $22, wunder2.com

Once the brows are perfect you might opt for some faux lashes. We love Kawaii Girl Cosmetics Human Hair Faux lashes. With proper care these lashes can be worn up to 20 times. They are hand crafted and designed to be ultra-lightweight for a full day of comfortable wear. All human hair lashes are set on clear bands for flexible application
Roppongi: Roppongi is an eye catching, medium volume, long length human hair lash. Like the popular Tokyo nightlife district, you’re sure to be noticed when sporting a pair of these lashes!

Ginza: Ginza is a light volume, long length human hair lash that is perfect for a day out in Tokyo’s toniest shopping district. Ginza is one of the lightest lashes in the Kawaii Girl debut “Tokyo Collection”.

Kanda: Kanda is a demi-flare human hair lash that is the perfect complement to a bold eye or a pop of color with a red lip. These are ideal for date night or a special occasion!

All human hair lashes retail for $12. http://www.kawaiigirlcosmetics.com

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March 5, 2017

The secrets behind youthful looks

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We all know people who look significantly younger than the rest of their generation, and sometimes it’s difficult to believe that they are their actual age. Their teeth look great, their hair looks glossy, their skin radiant, and then there’s the body, which looks like it hasn’t aged at all.

So what exactly is the secret behind these people who annoyingly seem so much younger than they actually are? Unfortunately, there isn’t an anti-aging pill that can magically stop your body from the onset of old age. Achieving a younger looking body and youthful face takes a number of things: dedication, research, and in some cases, money!

Some of the more expensive ways in achieving youthful looks include plastic surgery or dental treatment, such as dental implants. For people that are affected by hair loss, money can also help when buying youth. Hair transplants are a popular solution for many celebrities and people with enough money to afford such treatment.

However, less expensive hair loss solutions are available to those without a few million in their bank. Successful hair growing products can be bought at very reasonable prices and have proven to be successful in hair regrowth.

Your skin is another telltale sign of aging, so investing in your skin can be a key factor in accomplishing that youthful look. There are many different moisturizing products available that can help slow down the aging process. Skin products can vary hugely in price, ranging from a few dollars, to a few hundred. The effectiveness of each product has been reviewed by many beauty experts, so if you have time, you can research into which are the most likely to work for you, and if they fall within your budget.

Avoid drastic weight loss and smoking as these can both have significant aging effects on your skin. Celebrities pay for personal trainers, dieticians, and many will even resort to surgery when losing weight. To get similar results, you are going to have to put in a lot of time and effort.

Exercising regularly will help you to stay younger looking, and developing some muscle tone will help to reduce those annoying physical signs of aging such as flabby upper arms for women, and rounded bellies for men. If you don’t have a personal trainer, then you will have to find other ways to motivate yourself, such as joining a class, setting a long-term target that you will need to train for, or exercising with a friend.

The way that you dress can also massively impact how old you look. If you research some of the styles adopted by the people who master the art of looking younger, then you can learn what will work for you. Celebrities will pay their stylists to achieve the right look for them, so you can copy the look without the expense of a stylist.

Finally, smile and look happy. This always makes people appear younger, as opposed to looking old and miserable!

 

 

 

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February 28, 2017

Get The Look…Castillo Styles Halle Berry’s Hair

At the 89th Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, California, Halle Berry shined on the red carpet in her sparkling gown and voluminous curls. Her go-to stylist, Castillo, used MOP salon haircare products to create this glamorous and whimsical look.

unnamed-22Hairstylist: Castillo

Inspiration: Natural beauty, natural curls

Look: Asymmetrical Curly Afro, imagery here

I started with MOP mixed greens shampoo and conditioner to moisturize the hair.

On damp hair, I added the lemongrass whip to the roots for lift and added volume, then applied the MOP c-curl defining cream to midshaft through the ends.

Next, with the T3 Featherweight Luxe 2i Hair Dryer and SoftTouch 2 Diffuser I diffused sections of the hair.

As soon as the hair was completely dry I used the T3 Whirl Trio Curling Iron to create different sized curls to clean up the look.

Last, I sealed the entire look in with the MOP c-system hairspray.

“It was a joint process, that took around two weeks to decide on. Halle’s been wearing her hair natural lately and we really wanted to create a style that embodied her whimsical spirit. She was blown away with the finished look, she said she felt absolutely amazing.”

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