helenoftroy

Dealing with under eye puffiness and dark circles

posted on 9/5/2008 3:02:07 AM in Beauty: (0) Comments

Eye puffiness and dark circles are the second most common dermatologic complaint, acne is #1. The raccoon-look (as what my friend Shaun Olmstead calls people with under eye blemishes) is definitely not in fashion! Below are some natural remedies on how to get rid of under eye puffiness and those hideous dark circles!

For starters, be sure you are getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night.

Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Drink plenty of water, and make sure you are getting all your vitamins and minerals. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet, especially cabbage, spinach, and other leafy greens. Having at least 2 cups of organic fresh spinach everyday is recommended. Additionally, eat a handful of raw almonds (unsalted and unroasted) between meals.

Avoid salty foods, as salt causes the body to retain water, which equals bloating and puffiness that is particularly noticeable under the eye.

Asian pear is a juicy and crunchy fruit that has long been prized by Chinese herbalists as a way to lighten under-eye circles. Asian pears are packed with copper and vitamin C, antioxidant nutrients that help protect you from cellular damage caused by free radicals. When free radicals damage enough skin cells, signs of aging begin to appear. Copper is an essential component of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme that attacks these harmful agents when they enter the body via air pollution and other toxins.

Treat your skin while you sleep. Just before bed, lightly wet a washcloth with cold water and place over your eyes as you sleep. By morning, you should see an improvement.

Using cucumber slices or cool tea bags to reduce eye puffiness and dark circles really work. Cucumber slices are famous for their ability to reduce puffiness, and the tannin in tea bags has been found to reduce swelling and discoloration. Lie down, close your eyes, and place fresh cucumber slices or cool, damp caffeinated tea bags over your eyes for about ten minutes every day.
Gently apply almond oil under your eye every morning and evening until you see improvement.

New skin-care technology has become available through years of intensive research; it is now possible to find creams and other products that can help you combat under-eye circles. A product I suggest is an all-natural anti-aging eye cream that lightens dark circles under the eye.

Quit smoking, as it causes vascular problems that not only threaten your health, but also make your blood vessels appear more prominent under the skin.

Treating your skin will help, but there may also be an underlying cause. Imbalances in your life show up on your face and skin. Be happy.

Put your best foot forward

posted on 8/21/2008 4:47:05 AM in Fashion: (0) Comments

First impressions last. That’s why it is important for men to always be at their best whether they are going to a business meeting or a romantic first date. And that includes footwear. Wearing tattered or worn shoes creates a poor impression to others, just like wearing a wrinkled shirt or a stained tie.

It's not a lot of work to take good care of your shoes or a lot of time. Taking better care of your shoes does not require a lot of work nor time but it helps a lot in improving your overall image and save you money too! Remember that those Pradas and Kenneth Coles cost a fortune! My fashion savvy friend, Shaun Olmstead, shares some helpful tips to "put your best foot forward."

Always shine your shoes. When you first buy a new pair of shoes, and before you wear them shine them first.

Periodically clean shoes with cleaner/conditioner prior to polishing.

Allow shoes to dry completely after each wear. Do this by rotating your shoes between wears. This allows the perspiration to be absorbed.

Always place shoe trees inside your shoes as soon as you take them off. Shoe trees help reform the shape of the shoe and reduces the creases where the foot bends.

Always use a shoe horn when putting on your shoes. A shoe horn keeps the heel from losing its shape.

To keep your feet from sweating, spray your clean dry feet with an aerosol deodorant before you put your socks on. Stick with cotton socks instead of acrylic or wool, because they let your feet "breathe" more.

When traveling, use shoe bags or wrap shoes in a soft material.

Cover scratches and scuff marks by applying a shoe cream that is slightly lighter than the color of the leather.

Resole your heels whenever necessary.

Use rubber overshoes in sloppy weather. Wet leather wears quicker than dry.

Getting the best shave

posted on 8/15/2008 2:28:39 AM in Lifestyle: (0) Comments

Getting razor burns, ingrown hairs and nicks are some of the common problem men encounter after shaving. Applying a sharp metal blade to your face cuts hairs but also removes microscopic layers of skin and can cause irritation. Shaving facial hair is an art and having the best products and knowing the right techniques are essential to keep the face flawless and free from these unsightly blemishes.

My friend, Shaun Olmstead, observes that using a glycerin or aloe-based shaving cream or gel makes shaving smoother. These types of products will not only soothe the skin, but also allow the razor to glide smoothly across the face when shaving. It is also advised to massage the cream or gel into your whiskers or beard for a while to get the best results. And, as skin experts always say, shave with the grain first then, if necessary, you can shave against it. Avoid shaving too closely. Hair stubs cut too closely will get trapped inside the hair follicle and dig inward or sideways. To avoid shaving too close, don't pull the skin when you shave and don't put too much pressure on the blades. Finish with a soothing aftershave balm or your daily moisturizer but stay away from alcohol- based aftershaves as they will only irritate your skin. Salicylic acid is the one active substance that can visibly improve razor bumps. It is a dermatological-grade ingredient that exfoliates, moisturizes, clears pores and can help prevent infection.

Shopping for men’s shoes

posted on 7/8/2008 2:58:01 AM in Fashion: (0) Comments

Let’s face it, shopping for shoes is a woman’s turf. It’s a no brainer for us, we practically breathe for shoes, and more shoes! Okay, you might say I’m exaggerating so I’ll just speak for myself. I really love shoes! Why do you think I like Imelda Marcos so much?

Of course there are few good men who have extensive wardrobes of men's shoes and who could match me pair for pair, just like my friend Shaun Olmstead. But there are a lot of guys out there who needs help when it comes to shoe shopping. Here are a few pointers to help men decide which type of shoes to buy to match their outfit for every occasion.

Men can wear almost any color or style of shoe with jeans, but avoid very shiny shoes that were obviously intended for dressier outfits. Boots, lug soles, sneakers, loafers and sandals all work great with jeans, so you may find it helpful to let the style of your shirt guide you. A sporty polo shirt will look great with a pair of loafer; t-shirts go well with sneakers; long sleeved artsy button-downs work well with sandals.

For casual pants like chinos and khakis, there are a variety of loafers, oxford and other men's shoes that work well with casual pants. Let the ornamentation and style of the shoe guide you towards the look you're trying to achieve. For example, a tassel or a buckle is a little more on the dressy side, while a woven pattern or heavy stitching is a little more on the casual side.

With dress pants, shoot for the same type of shoe that you might wear with a suit. Shinier materials usually indicate a dressier shoe, as do less bulky heels and soles. Choose a shoe that is the same color or darker than your pants. To give you an idea, black shoes work well with navy, grey or black pants. Brown shoes are best suited to tan, brown, beige, greens, other darker earth tones. Burgundy shoes work well with khaki, lighter browns, blue and grey. Tan shoes look great with lighter earth tones, blue, beige, lighter tan or white.

Although it is a safe bet, socks do not need to match your shoes. Instead, think of your socks as you would a tie - an item that can bring the whole outfit together. Also remember that if you are wearing a belt, you should match your shoes to it.

Skin Care for Men

posted on 6/27/2008 3:46:20 AM in (0) Comments

Most men don’t even bother taking care of their skin. Thanks goodness an increasing number of them are starting to discover skin products especially formulated to clean and take care of male skin. My friend, Shaun Olmstead, used to wash his face using only ordinary bath soap but now has a skin care regimen that would put to shame even women! He is now using an assortment of skin care products which not only aim to cleanse the face but also exfoliate and moisturize the skin.

To improve your complexion, you need to cleanse your skin every day. You should never use ordinary bath soaps as they only tend to dry out your skin. Instead, use products that are especially developed for male skin as well as with the chemistry of your particular type of skin. All soaps and cleansers work on filth by acting like a pair of handcuffs: one loop snags the oil while the other hangs on to the water and gets the grease off.

However, this little cops 'n robbers scenario plays out a little differently for different skin types:

Dry Skin: You'll need facial cleansers that contain either glycerine or a type of silicone, such as cyclomethicone or dimethicone, to help pump a little more moisture into your skin.

Oily Skin: You're going to want to dry up some of that grease with your soap. Quell the dirt by using a soap that contains salicylic acid.

Sensitive Skin: You're going to need something a little milder than the typical ingredients. Believe it or not, the leading contender here is something called propylene glycol which, when not gently easing you into a life of ivory cheeks, pulls double duty as the prime ingredient in antifreeze and the stuff they use to de-ice planes.

Normal Skin: Count your blessings you lucky bastard. Soaps that use lanolin, a handy extract from the oil glands of sheep, would be best for your skin!

From slob to fab!

posted on 6/11/2008 1:48:14 AM in Fashion: (0) Comments

An increasing number of men are getting conscious of the way they look. They are now making efforts to look good and present themselves in the most positive light. My friend Shaun Olmstead, always well-groomed and dapper in his fine clothes, says dressing well makes him feel good. It also boosts his self confidence.

Shaun is just one of those men who are conscious about their personal appearance but there are still a lot out there who needs intervention! Don’t fret if you are a style-challenged man (or the woman who loves him). The following are simple tips to help turn a slob into a fabulous man!

Update you look by going to a reputable salon and get a haircut. Ask the stylist to give you a cut that will suit the shape of your face and will compliment your features. Then lay back, let her shampoo your hair, massage your scalp, and do her thing. Afterwards, she will offer some tips and some products to keep your hair looking great. Write down all the tips, buy all the products, and tip her well. For women arranging this for a man, make sure to go with him and reassure him by talking to the stylist about how many other men she's done this for and how happy they were.

Visit the cologne store and buy a new scent. Despite the sheer volume of selections, your choices come down to musk, spice, fruit, or citrus. Find an attractive saleswoman and tell her your preference. If she mentions one in particular that she "loves" or "just got in" and it doesn't turn your stomach, buy it. For women doing this with a man, pick the one you like best and tell him how great it smells on him.

Before leaving the house, always take a shower and make sure to shave, clean fingernails, clip nostril hair, put on deodorant, and clean the mess out of the sink. Dry off thoroughly and wait for body temperature to return to normal before dressing. Put on clean underwear, socks, and t-shirt or tank - in that order. Then pull on the jeans and tuck in the undershirt. Don't forget the belt.

Spray one wrist with cologne and rub both wrists together, palms facing. Then spray one palm with the cologne, rub palms together, and gently pat the sides of the neck behind the ear.

Take the starched white shirt from its hanger and put it on, being careful not to wrinkle it. If the collar requires, make sure it's buttoned - as well as the sleeves and cuffs. Tuck in the shirt.

Put on the suit jacket, again being careful not to wrinkle the white cotton shirt. With your arms at your sides, fold your hands in half and pinch the cuffs of the shirt between your fingertips and the heel of your hands. Now "shoot the cuffs" by extending your arms out horizontal to the floor so the cuffs of your shirt peek out below the sleeve of the jacket. Pinch the top button and top button-hole of your shirt, and "pop your collar" so the shirt and the jacket aren't bunched up on your shoulders.
Find a full-length mirror and admire yourself. You will look, smell, and feel like a million bucks.

Dressing up fabulously!

posted on 6/5/2008 1:29:40 AM in Fashion: (0) Comments

Let’s be honest, it is a major challenge for some of us to dress up stylishly. How many times have we seen someone dress up with a floral top over a checkered skirt? Don’t you just cringe at the sight of your boss wearing brown shoes and black belt, with his tie hanging a tad too short? We, ourselves, may have been fashion victims at some point but there is no excuse for being one for the rest our lives!

My fashion savvy friend, socialite Shaun Olmstead, shares some tips on how to be more fashion conscious. He says one does not need a lot of money to be chic and stylish but a few pieces of Armani, Prada or Blahnik in your wardrobe wouldn’t hurt either! Don’t fret if you can’t afford designer frocks. Shaun believes that, sometimes, having good taste and the right attitude is far better than having loads of cash!

The first step in getting out of a fashion rut is to update your closet. Get rid of stuff that you no longer use or too outdated that sending them to the Salvation Army would be sacrilegious! Then you can start buying pieces and build your new wardrobe. Never shop for everything at one go! Just take a few pieces at a time and make sure to pick items that you can mix and match. Also go for clothes with classic styles rather than what’s fashionable for the season. Remember that you get more value for your money when you buy clothes that never go out of style and you can use over and over again!

A wardrobe plan is also a great help. Write down a list, and keep it in your purse. It will keep you from making impulsive purchases you'll regret later. A good black dress this month, a lovely white shirt next month and before you know it, you'll have a rich wardrobe. Also invest on accessories that will give oomph and impact to your attire. And always shop for comfort. When you feel good about your clothes, you can move elegantly and graceful through any situation.

Now that you have a new and stylish lease on life, put your clothes to work! Dress appropriately for any occasion. If in doubt, it is better to be over-dressed rather than under-dressed. Being fashion conscious attracts more people. So whether you want a date or are already married and looking to make new friends or someone who is just interested in networking for finding a job or their next client/customer, it pays to dress. No matter how much you disagree with superficial appearance, the fact is that you will be judged by others based on how you look. So be confident and don’t forget to smile, it’s part of your new look!

Smell Good, Look Good

posted on 6/3/2008 1:27:16 AM in Beauty: (2) Comments

Let’s face it, most women are attracted to well-groomed men. Aside from properly styled hair, perfectly clean finger nails and dapper clothing, men should also know how to use scents to their advantage. One thing that turns women off is a man reeking with too much cologne so knowledge on how to properly apply scents is a vital part of the image you present. It is important to keep the scent subtle while also making sure that it lasts throughout the day.

My friend, socialite Shaun Olmstead, believes that smelling good is a great part of looking good. He says cologne has two purposes. The first is to provide a backup for your deodorant when you're hot and the second is to give you a signature scent that people will remember you by. Thus, it is important to choose a scent that will compliment the image or mood that you want to project.

Avoid "splashing" the cologne like you may have seen models do on television commercials. This is a sure way to overdo your cologne application. Remember to only use one or two spritzes of a spray cologne or just a couple of dabs when using bottled ones. When spraying, position the spray nozzle about two inches from your skin.

Apply cologne to areas of the body that generate the most heat. This allows the cologne to slowly emanate throughout the day. Typical areas of application are wrists, neck, back, chest and thighs. However, don't apply cologne to all of the suggested areas. Instead, just choose two or three areas. Also consider applying scent to areas that will be covered by clothing. This allows the scent to come to the surface throughout the day.

The Skinny on Men’s Skin Care

posted on 5/8/2008 2:07:58 AM in Beauty: (0) Comments

It used to be that women are the only ones concerned with the way they look. Now, men are starting to be more conscious with their appearance and exert a little more effort in taking care of their skin than just using soap and water.

A new term was even coined to describe men with a strong concern for their appearance: metrosexuals. They are heterosexual males who will go out of their way to get the best skin care products, clothes and lifestyle to present themselves in the best possible light.

Before, men are accustomed to just using soap and water to cleanse their faces and take care of their skin. At present, there are a myriad of skin care products specially formulated for men’s skin available in the market, from cleansers to exfoliants and moisturizers.

My friend socialite Shaun Olmstead, a self-confessed metrosexual, admits to using several products to keep his skin supple and youthful. He particularly loves products from ClarinsMen and Kiehl’s. Shaun says these are a bit pricier than the regular products available in drugstores and supermarkets but claims that they are all worth it.

Men’s skin is different from women’s skin. Having a thicker epidermis and a dense dermal layer, men need formulas that give energy to their skin but at the same time provide gentle care to avoid irritation due to shaving or excessive sweating.

For men who want to have that flawless and youthful skin that looks like you've just stepped out of the pages of a magazine, an effective skin care regimen is necessary. Always wash your face before sleeping, you don’t want bacteria to work on the sweat, oil and grime on your face which could result to infections. Use a cleanser that is specifically formulated for your skin type. A good cleanser removes the oil and debris that builds up on skin and prevents infections. Apply a good toner, it restores the skin's ph balance which is increased by cleansing and shaving. A moisturizer is also important, not only for hydration, but to combat the effects of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. And don’t forget to apply sunblock cream your skin when going out to avoid the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.

More importantly, a healthy lifestyle is essential to a flawless and youthful skin. You should try to get at least eight hours of sleep every day and avoid stress. Eat a balanced diet and make sure to always drink a minimum of eight glasses of water a day. Exercise will also do wonders for your skin. Also visit your dermatologist or licensed aesthetician regularly.

A day in the life of a socialite

posted on 4/2/2008 5:18:20 AM in Lifestyle: (0) Comments

The nightly parties and functions are expected, but how do socialites spend the rest of the day? During a fabulous dinner, my socialite friend, Shaun Olmstead, shared with me the details of his daily grind. He says “We’re just like ordinary people. We sleep, eat, work, and have fun just like the rest!” I said he’s correct but quickly added that he doesn’t sleep in a crowded apartment bed room, he doesn’t eat at the neighborhood fast food chain, he doesn’t really need to work, and that there’s no way ordinary people could afford his idea of fun!

Shaun wakes up at around noon, take a shower, get dressed and go to his favorite restaurant for lunch. He starts the day a little earlier if there are brunch or luncheon business meetings to attend to. He then goes to his office for more meetings and appointments, sign documents, plan for events, etc. If time permits, he visits his dentist or dermatologist or goes shopping for more shoes and outfits.

His next stop would be the gym for a quick workout or to the pool for a few laps. He then heads back to home for a shower, change of clothes and get ready for the evening’s activities, be it an intimate dinner with friends, cocktails for a product launch, a charity gala or a friend’s birthday bash.

Tired of dancing and a bit tipsy but carrying a loot bag of designer frocks, Shaun goes home to rest, only to wake up the next morning to lead another socialite’s life.

Socialites and Charities

posted on 4/2/2008 4:26:18 AM in Lifestyle: (0) Comments

A socialite’s life does not only revolve around attending exclusive parties, fashion shows and high-end store openings. These social creatures are also involved in a lot of charity work (or at least the ones I know). According to socialite Shaun Olmstead, “It’s our way of giving back to the community. We’ve been very blessed and it’s just proper to help the less privileged sectors of the society or support any cause that will make this planet a better world to live in.”

If there’s one word that can best describe a true socialite, it would have to be generosity. Giving to their favorite charities gives them the same pleasure as attending or throwing the most extravagant parties. And generosity does not only refer to the monetary kind. It could be spending time to play with orphans, planting trees or offering their services for free like in the cases of socialite lawyers and doctors.

For Shaun Olmstead, some of the causes that are close to his heart are those that involve children, the elderly and the differently-abled. He makes it a point to support, financially or otherwise, his favorite orphanages, public hospitals and homes for the aged. He also sends to school underprivileged but deserving deaf-mute youths. He also supports environmental causes such as the fight against global warming.

Social Climbing 101

posted on 4/2/2008 12:53:11 AM in Lifestyle: (0) Comments

Have you ever wondered what happens inside a by-invitation-only party? Have you ever dreamt of hobnobbing with the rich and famous? Have you ever wished of becoming a socialite, attending exclusive parties and mingling with the elite? Being a socialite is no easy feat but if you have the money, attitude and determination, nothing is impossible.

According to my friend Shaun Olmstead (a socialite himself), there are two kinds of socialites: the “born in” (a.k.a. “old rich and famous”) and those who are self-made (a.k.a. “new rich and famous”). Therefore, wealth is a primary consideration for someone who intends to do some serious social climbing! For how can you attend and throw plush parties and live the socialite’s lifestyle when you don’t have the financial resources?

Other important prerequisites are good reputation and education. It will be easier to enter the elite circle if you have attended private and reputable schools abroad. But if you are too old to do that now, just make sure that you speak properly and are well-rounded in various subjects such as business, economics, arts, entertaining, fashion and style. Reading books like Trump: How to get Rich by Donald Trump is a great help.

Looking the part is also a major consideration. You must be familiar with the hottest fashion and invest on designer items that will turn heads, not because you look like another fashion victim but because you look great in them! To complete the refined, educated, sophisticated and stylish look, adapt the latest trend in grooming. A personal stylist is always a great help to get that perfect look.

Get yourself acquainted with the clubs, watering holes, vacation spots where socialites usually hang out and start frequenting these places. Also get involved in charity work. Philanthropy is another facet of a true blue socialite.

Becoming a socialite seems like a lot of work! But with a lot of charm, confidence and drive, you could be hobnobbing with Paris Hilton any time soon!

Shopping for Shoes

posted on 1/23/2008 3:00:26 AM in Fashion: (1) Comments

Every woman, it seems, has a shoe fetish. We just love collecting shoes! For some, shoe shopping has become an expensive stress-reliever. But isn’t it a bummer to walk out of the store with an expensive pair that don't fit quite right when you try it at home? Here are some tips on shoe shopping that will keep every girl’s inner Imelda happy!

The best time to shop for shoes is late in the day, after your feet have swollen to their largest size. Wear socks or hosiery that you will be wearing with the shoes to know if the pair is too tight or too loose. Stand up and wiggle your toes to see if the fit is right. Also check your heel to make sure it isn't too loose. If your heel slips, the shoe is a tad too big for you.

Walk around the store to make sure they feel comfortable when you are walking. If they feel funny or you can’t keep your balance, just put them back on the rack and prevent the risk of falling flat on your face. Don't assume you'll be able to "break in" a pair of shoes. If they don't fit well in the store, they won't fit well outside of the store. Don't waste money on names. Some of the most expensive shoes feel incredibly uncomfortable. And always check the sales. You might find that strappy stilettoes you’ve been looking for, at half the price.

Milk for your Skin

posted on 1/21/2008 3:40:45 AM in Beauty: (0) Comments

Milk is more than just a healthy drink that is good for the bones. The legendary wonders of milk when applied to the skin has been discovered 2,000 years ago. Cleopatra, the Queen of the Nile, bathed in milk everyday to maintain her lily-white skin soft and supple.

Milk has hydrating properties that prevents dryness. It helps reduce darkening brought about by the wear and tear of aging. It has essential proteins and amino acids, and vitamin A that nourish skin. It is also rich in beta-hydroxyl acids that act as natural skin conditioner that exfoliate, soothe and soften old skin, and give that healthy glow. Another important nutrient in milk is lactic acid, which helps to gently clean and soften skin down to its deepest layer.

There are a lot of commercially available milk soaps and bath products. Use them as you would any regular soaps or bath products. But don’t leave them on your skin for too long: 5 to 10 minutes should be enough, and make sure that you properly rinse the milk off after you have soaked in it.

Natural Beauty

posted on 1/18/2008 4:23:29 AM in Beauty: (0) Comments

Tired of expensive and chemically laden beauty products? Go the natural way and use items readily available in your kitchen!

Aside from being a protective antioxidant, honey is a natural moisturizer. It has been used for centuries in Europe as a soothing balm for dry skin. Furthermore, honey helps to protect the skin from the damage of the sun's rays and rejuvenate depleted skin.

Yogurt is more than just a low-calorie snack that's packed with calcium, vitamin D and live bacteria cultures that can help calm a troubled tummy. It also has the power to sooth irritated skin. Choose full-fat over low-fat (it will offer more moisturizing power) and smooth onto bare skin. Leave on for 15 minutes then rinse with warm water.

The ultimate comfort food, chocolate, is also a naturally antioxidant-rich treat that is beneficial to the skin. In fact, it has become a popular spa treatment which you can replicate in your own home by sprinkling cocoa powder into your bubble bath.

What is Real Beauty?

posted on 1/4/2008 3:48:33 AM in Beauty: (3) Comments

What is real beauty? Is it the face we see when we look at the mirror first thing in the morning? The disheveled look, without any makeup? Can I still be called beautiful even if I’m 50 lbs overweight? Is beauty truly in the hands of the beholder as Al Bernstein contends? I’d like to think so, but…

The media paints an almost unattainable standard of beauty: young, tall, slim, models with ample breasts and shapely legs as seen on the pages of fashion magazines, on television and movie screens. And these images pressure some women to risk their lives for beauty. A growing number of girls, some as young as nine, are taking diet pills or are already afflicted with eating disorders in their efforts to look like the models or stars they idolize. It seems that the billion dollar beauty industry survives by inflicting physical and psychological abuse upon millions of women. They are the only ones benefiting from this stupid obsession.

The female body is beautiful as it is, whether she’s plump or skinny, tall or short. The body is not an object to be perfected or needs adjustment. True beauty can be found in a person’s smile, ideas, charm, thoughts, humor, laughter, generosity, compassion, intellect, integrity and unselfishness, and definitely not by her looks.

Remember girls, we are all beautiful in our own right! Just think positive and always smile. There is no cosmetic for beauty like happiness.

Invasion of the Metrosexuals

posted on 12/7/2007 2:37:56 AM in Beauty: (0) Comments

“Oh my God, he's too pretty to be straight!” exclaimed Prada-wearing, LV-carrying Tricia as we “boy-watch” while sipping Frapuccinos outside a popular coffee shop along Emerald Ave. She's been single for over six months now and displaying her chic self in public has been her current pastime after office hours, hoping that some cute guy will notice her and ask for a date (or at least, her name). And it's imperative that we, her friends, accompany her so she wont look alone and desperate. After hundreds or so of passing gorgeous guys, Trisha exasperatedly blurted, “Damn metrosexuals! How are we suppose to distinguish the straight guys from the gay ones when all of them are impeccably stylish?”

Metrosexuals (a word coined by Mark Simpson in 1994) are urban men with strong aesthetic sense who spends a great deal of time and money on their appearance and lifestyle. This strong passion for fashion and style is more commonly associated with gay men. However, metrosexuals claim that their “chic sense” has nothing to do with their sexuality and sexual preference. They simply want to look good.

I asked Trisha if she's open to the idea of dating a metrosexual. She said “I have nothing against men who are trying to look their best. But I will be uncomfortable to go out with a guy who will excuse himself every once in a while over dinner to powder his nose, or who has more knowledge about make-up than i do, or whose idea of a great weekend is getting a facial treatment.” Silly girl, Trisha!

Please feel free to post your ideas about metrosexuality. Who knows, maybe you could change Trisha's mind.

Skin Whitening Pinoy Style

posted on 12/6/2007 2:45:16 AM in Beauty: (0) Comments

While Hollywood celebrities Charlize Theron and Paris Hilton bask in the sun in a secluded Acapulco beach or pay big bucks in a posh Beverly Hills tanning salon just to get that “gorgeous tanned look,” we Filipinos shun the sun every way we can. And if we really have to go out in the sun, we wear long-sleeved shirts, use an umbrella or slather layers of sunblock cream onto our skin to keep the darkening effects of sunlight at bay. Melanin is the substance that gives our skin its color. Generally, the more melanin, the darker the skin and vice versa. Exposure to sunlight is one factor that boost the production of melanin in the skin. Thus, people who live in “sunny” areas are more likely to have darker skin tone than those who are from less “sunny” regions. One of the most recognized benefits of melanin to our body is it protects us from the harmful ultra-violet rays, one major cause of skin cancer. (So why get rid of melanin when it is beneficial to us?)

The sheer number of whitening products available in the market is a clear indication of our obsession for whiter skin. Facial cleansers, soaps, face creams, lotions, even deodorants with skin lightening properties are more attractive to the Filipino consumer than ordinary skin care products. One common and affordable way of achieving whiter skin is through the use of astringents and creams with skin peeling and bleaching properties. These concoctions usually use tretinoin and hydroquinone as their active ingredients, which reduce melanin formation. Though relatively safe, caution is still advised when using products with tretinoin and hydroquinone. Avoid exposure to sunlight or use sunblock creams to prevent rashes and further discoloration.

The organic and herbal skin care product industry is also catching up on the bandwagon. Countless of products enriched with papaya, kalamansi and guava extracts, that promise a healthy and lighter complexion without the side effects, are out in the market. These fruits contain enzymes and acids that have bleaching properties. And if the sales of these products are any indication, the organic whitening skin care industry has become a multi-million peso business.

Another current craze in skin whitening is the use of gluthatione and methathione. People who want to get lighter complexion actually use these substances for its side effect which is skin whitening. Glutathione, and its reduced form metathione, are anti-oxidants that detoxify and improve liver functions and strengthen the immune system.

And for the rich and the famous who are willing to cop out bucks just to get that light and radiant skin, there are posh dermatological clinics that that offer safe skin whitening services, superviced by a dermatological expert. Just drop by and spend the afternoon for a facial, skin peeling and laser treatments.

The Filipinos' penchant for whiter skin is indeed overwhelming. There is nothing wrong with it if it will boost our morale and self confidence. It's just that we are known to be the race with beautiful brown skin. So why not just be proud of it? Just asking...

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