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Saving Pets Is Our Passion

As the worlds largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption center, NSAL America reaches across the country to rescue, nurture and restore over 20,000 pets to happy and healthy lives in loving homes every year. In addition to our critical work in the tri-state area, NSAL America travels to shelters across the country each week rescuing pets in need. Animals that come to us receive superior care in our state of the art medical facility and a loving, friendly home while awaiting adoption.

Join our mission to rescue, nurture and restore pets to loving homes by supporting NSAL America today. Adopt a pet today!

Oliver	Laurie and Oliver	Rufio and Dharma entertaining each other
Laurie and Cristina Riding next to each other.	October 5th 2008, Laurie road 60 miles for MS.	Laurie’s cousin Elizabeth was diagnosed with MS this year at the age of 42. Please keep her in your prayers.

Ernie

It is hard to believe I have Ernie for two years now. I rescued him from N.S.A.L.A., it was a difficult decision since I have two full grown cats at home, and at that time Oliver was still with me. I thought it might be best to get a kitten, he or she would be less threatening, but when I arrived to choose a cat it was overwhelming. There are hundreds of cats who need a loving home. I sat for an hour just staring at the pathetic site of all these beautiful creatures in cages. I saw Ernie there and there was something about him, he was fully grown, and seemed so large for his cage. There was something alluring about his spirit, as big as he was he played with this felt carrot. He was unable to stand, but he flipped it around with his head. I inquired some information on his back-ground. I was told that someone had tossed him in a dumpster when he was a few months old, can you believe that! They then explained that if I were to take him, not to expect much in return since he was so damaged. I still wanted to see him out of the cage, and sure enough he cowered, as they brought him over. His muscles had all atrophied since he was lying in a cage for so long. I thought the heck with it I will take my chances, and take him. He literally did not come out form under the couch for two days, not to eat or do his business. That is how damaged he was. It takes a lot of patience to take in an animal that is damaged, because most people want an animal to love, and to get love in return. If you are not willing to be rejected for quite some time, I advise you not to get such an animal, because you will be disappointed, and frustrated. You need PATIENCE, and you will learn a lot about yourself, as well as the animal. I can surely attest to the fact that if you give them space, and love from a distance, they will come around, and they will be ever so grateful. It is a wonderful feeling, and as you can see Ernie has come along way, and the best part is they instinctively know you have literally spared them and have given them freedom, and love. That is special

Here is a overview of how to prepare for your special occasion

Let’s begin with skin. The skin provides an honest mirror of our inner health and well being. I know it is a stressful time, but try to be aware of what you eat and drink especially five weeks before your wedding day. Water is vital at least eight glasses per day. I myself use a 1.5 liter of water to make sure I finish at least one per day. Cut back salty foods, fatty foods, and increase protein intake, and some greens. Exercise take some time for yourself to unwind, and stay focused.

Healthy skin will help you to look even more glowing and radiant. If you have severe skin problems you can consult me, and I will analyze your skin and make sure we clear it up in time for your wedding. Begin this five months before you’re day. You want to use products tat can only be purchased under the supervision of a doctor. The active ingredients are higher and more effective than over the counter products or going to a day spa.

Procedure

The procedure I most highly recommend is micro-dermaplaning, not “dermabrasion”, which can be abrasive. This treatment has no “down time”, unless we decide you might need an extra boost by adding salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or perhaps lactic acid on top. That is why it is important for you to get a consult at least two months in advance of you’re wedding day. If you have good skin you can get micro-dermaplaning three days before your wedding. It is that non invasive. I gently take the top layer of your dead skin cells off. Than apply a gentle enzyme mask, your skin is then cooled and soothed with fresh cucumber. An all natural rich soothing cream is applied, and mineral water is sprayed on to lock in the moisture. You will be amazed at the results! It is not the type of facial which gives you a glow for a day or two, it will change the texture of you’re skin. Your skin will feel as soft and smooth as a baby’s. All of my clients love this procedure because they can do this on their lunch break, and go back to work with out any redness just a beautiful glow!

Make Up

Always try a trial make over before the actual wedding day. You want to feel confident that you achieve the look you want. In my opinion I think it is best to be yourself, and if your skin is glowing you will need less foundation, and powder which can sometimes look chalky by the end of the day or evening. You will not have to touch up as much. Mainly be yourself, you want to feel beautiful and confident. It is the one day that you will always reflect back on, and it usually the one photo or photos that will hang on your wall or sit on you’re tables, so try to make it a beautiful memory. It is the “one day” of a life time.

Here I would like to feature the best skin care products, and compare what product may be best for your skin type.

NORMAL SKIN CLEANSER:

1. Skin Medica Facial Cleanser- Great product! Removes make up, smells terrific, and is never over-drying on the skin. It is soap free cleanser, gently purges dirt, make up, and is deep cleansing yet gentle. This would be my choice.
2. Neocutis Exfoliating Cleanser

DAYTIME MOISTURIZER WITH SPF:

1. Neocutis Journee- This day cream has an SPF of #30, while it is combined with PSP (cytokines, growth factors and antioxidants) it also guards against premature aging, its non-greasy, fast absorbing, and fragrance free. This would be my choice!
2. Skin Medica Daily Moisture SPF 20

NIGHT CREAM:

1. Alchemie Kantic
2. Skin Medica Dermal Repair- My Pick! This is an advanced formula that combines 10% vitamin C, 8% E, with vitamin A, hyaluronic acid, and essential fatty acids in a rich moisturizing base; An all around balanced night cream for normal mature skin.

EXFOLIATOR:

1. Kate Somervilee Exfolicate Gentle- My Pick! It’s a gentle exfoliate and has very good natural properties, such as papain, bromalain which both help in digesting dead skin cells.
2. Astara Daily refining Scrub

MASK:

1. Astara Green Papaya
2. Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Mask- My Pick! I use this frequently. I like this mask since it is a non-drying masque that combines kaolin and bentoite, the highest quality natural earth clays which decongest pores, lifts impurities and oils while exfoliating the skin. This is a great masque to use soon before going out to a party, or special event.

DRY SKIN CLEANSER:

1. Skinceuticals Gentle Cleanser
2. Neocutis Gentle Cleanser- My Pick! Since we use a cleanser twice a day, I find this cleanser cleans the skin well, without stripping it of its natural barrier.

DAYTIME MOISTURIZER WITH SPF:

1. Skinceuticals ceramide cream- My Pick! Ceramides make up about 40% of the skin’s total fat (lipid) content, along with cholesterol, and fatty acids. This cream comes highly recommended for its ability to replenish and regulate the healthy functioning of the epidermis.
2. Natura Bisse Sensitive cream

NIGHT CREAM:

1. Natura Bisse Diamond Cream
2. Natura Bisse Diamond ExtremeUnfortunately, I am not impressed with either of these night creams for dry skin. I suggest, “SKINCEUTICALS RENEWED OVERNIGHT NIGHTCREAM” it contains 10% mix of hydroxyl acid to exfoliate dead skin cells and keep pores clear. It is a nourishing blend of botanical extracts to improve the overall appearance of skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and evening primrose oil to hydrate skin.

EXFOLIATOR:

1. Astara Daily Refining Scrub
2. Natura Bisse Glyco LineI would not recommend either of these products for dry skin. I would however, recommend “SKINCEUTICALS MICRO-POLISH” it gently eliminates dry dull flakey skin, while botanical extracts calm and revitalize skin.

MASK:

1. Skinceutiicals Hydrating B5 Mask- My Pick! Excellent product for a deep hydrating mask enriched with vitamin B5 to aid in restoring a healthy texture, and appearance.
2. Astara Green Papya Mask

SENSITIVE SKIN CLEANSER:

1. Skin Medica Sensitive Cleanser-My Pick! This is great for sensitive skin. It has a milky consistency and is enriched with soothing extracts for thorough removal of dirt and grime while providing extra hydration.
2. Neocutis Gentle Cleanser

DAYTIME MOISTURIZER WITH SPF:

1. Alchemie Yttrium Day Cream (non SPF)- My Pick! This is a fantastic moisturizer for sensitive skin types. It is a light weight day cream, rich in antioxidants derived from blueberries. This cream combats the effects of free radicals and other pollutants. It also calms sensitive skin. However, you will need to use sun block in conjunction with this cream.
2. Natura Bisse Sensitive Cream (non SPF)

NIGHT CREAM:

1. Natura Bisse Diamond Cream
   I would not recommend either of these moisturizers, however I would recommend, ”LA ROCHE-POSAY ROSALIAC ANTI REDNESS MOISTURIZER” This cream helps neutralizes redness or sensitive skin while giving it the hydration it needs. It has vitamin CG, adapted specifically to help strengthen sensitive skin.

MASK:

1. Alchemie Kantic Mask- My Pick! This is a creamy soothing mask since it is packed with antioxidants and oat extracts to sooth, protect, and brighten dull skin. Blueberries help to quell redness.
2. Skinceuitcals Hydrating B5 Mask

ROSACEA TREATMENT:

1. Neocutis Bio-cream
   I would choose the Neocutis product, ” BIO-RESTORATIVE” skin cream. This cream contains PSP which is beneficial for people with seborrheic dermatitis and rosacea.

OILY SKIN CLEANSER:

1. Skin Medica Purifying Cleanser
2. Skinceuticals Simply Clean- My Pick! I recommend this cleanser for oily skin types frequently. It is ideal for cleansing oily complexions. It combines an exfoliating hydroxyl acid blend with botanical extracts.

DAYTIME MOISTURIZER WITH SPF:

1. Skinceuticals Spf 20- My Pick! This is a great choice for oily skin types; it provides broad spectrum UVA-UVB protection for your skin with a transparent zinc oxide. This oil free formula protects your skin without leaving your skin looking greasy.

NIGHT CREAM:

1. Skinceuitcals Renew Overnight Oily- My Pick! This is an excellent night cream for oily skin types. Special extracts help replenish moisture, while a 10% hydroxyl acid blend gently exfoliates to help restore a healthy, radiant complexion. Tangerine oil is added to this cream which aids in cleaning out congested pores.

EXFOLIATOR:

1. Kate Somerville Exfolicate- My Pick! This product is an excellent exfoliate, having fruit enzymes clarifies skin by removing dead cells and eliminating bacteria. It’s also effective in combating acne, including stubborn black heads, polishes skin, revealing a smooth glowing complextion.

MASK:

1. Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Mask
2. Astara Blue Flame- My Pick! This is also great for oily skin types. A key ingredient is tea tree oil. It is also fortified with botanical detoxifying antibacterial, and healing agents. This mask is ideal for acne prone blemished and again oily skin.

TONER:

1. Skin Medica Acne Toner: MY PICK WOULD BE, “ASTRA AHA NUTRIENT TONING ESSENCE” this AHA solution dissolves dead surface cells and debris while conditioning and toning skin.

Nasolabial folds. Or, “parentheses” are the deep folds that run from the side of your nose to the corner of your mouth. These folds develop as we age and can be one of the first visible signs of facial aging. This is due to the decrease in the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, and of course gravity begins to take over as a result.

Fillers: The most common and effective treatments for nasolabial fold correction are injectable fillers. These basically work by pushing the folds outward. Popular options include HYALURONIC ACID FILLERS, such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Perlane. Hyaluronic acid is a component of connective tissue whose function is to cushion and lubricate. This tends to decrease as we age, which is why Hyaluronic Acid has been nicknamed as the “key to the fountain of youth” Restylane, Juvederm, and Perlane contain Hyaluronic Acid. Almost all people are suitable for Hyaluronic Acid. Because Hyaluronic Acid is chemically identical to the acid in the human body, allergy is very rare. Hyaluronic Acid injections have been approved “safe” by the FDA for many years.

WHICH INJECTION TO CHOOSE: Plastic Surgeons use all three of the above mentioned injectables to increase the volume in the Nasolabial fold. PERLANE: The major difference between Perlane and Restylane is that Perlane is a larger molecule, because it contains more Hyaluronic Acid molecules. Therefore Perlane may be used for deeper folds. Restylane can be treated for finer lines and also works well for fair skinned people. Both of these fillers will last up to six to eight months. JUVEDERM: This filler more recently approved by the FDA has a consistency, which will instantly restore your skin’s volume and smooth away facial wrinkles and folds. This filler has the highest concentration of Hyaluronic Acid, therefore giving the patient more lasting power. Results can last a little over a year. In addition Juvederm injectable Gel is the first FDA approved Hyaluronic Acid dermal filler that is proven to be safe and effective for persons of color. A patient will see immediate results right after any of the three mentioned Hyaluronic Acids are injected.

In summary, all of the above mentioned fillers are FDA approved and are considered safe, according to the “Journal of Drugs in Dermatology” in March of 2004. Restylane and Perlane can last between six to eight months, while Juvederm can last a little over one year.

LIPS: The border between the skin and lips better known as the vermilion border, tend to lose volume with age. Restylane or Juvederm work well in rejuvenating lips, as long as you don’t overdo it.

Lip Augmentation is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure, most Plastic Surgeons agree that Restylane or Juvederm are “safe” fillers to achieve lip enhancement. The intention for lip enhancement should be to restore what has been lost due to the aging process, or to enhance lips that are very thin, giving the face a more facially balanced appearance. I see a lot of women making the mistake of “overdoing” it. For example, lips should enhance one’s face compliment it, not “overwhelm” it. If too much filler is injected one can get that platypus look and defeat the purpose. Most times with anything, less is more. Lips can be very sensual and when injected properly one can achieve this subtle but sensual look. It should also be age appropriate; most women in their mid to late forties do not have thick full lips. A defined edge to the vermilion border should be the first step in achieving your goal. By defining this area, you are able to fill in the upper and lower portions of the center of the lips accordingly. A face as a whole should be balanced; this is a sign of a job well done. If too much filler is injected, one’s face can look unbalanced, and distorted.

If you were born with thin lips, it is wise to stay within the realm of your features by defining their shape. Once the vermilion border is defined, (Cupid’s bow) it can be very flattering to the face as a whole. And it will give you a clear understanding of how much filler should be used in both the upper and lower cushion part of the lips. Once again Hyaluronic Acid based fillers are best and safer than collagen (bovine- derived collagen) which is extracted from the tissue of cows. Since there is a three percent chance of an allergic reaction to this filler, why take a chance? Hyaluronic fillers are clear, biodegradable substances that occurs in the body’s joints and skin. Once you make the decision of “natural looking lips” Restylane or Juvederm are good safe options according to the FDA. Restylane is a clear gel that is injected in small increments to restore volume and structure. It is based once again on Hyaluronic Acid. Restylane is non-animal, which means that no skin test is required, and there is minimal risk of an allergic or hyper sensitive reactions. The result of Restylane will generally last up to six to nine months, and with a re-treatment has been shown to last up to eighteen months, “American Journal Of Dermatology”. When Restylane is injected properly it can give a smooth natural fuller looking lip, which will give the face a more youthful appearance. A patient will immediately see the results of Restylane or Perlane after either is injected, however the down time is minimal since the Hyaluronic molecule is not as large as Juvederm. A patient will see immediate results after either treatment.

JUVEDERM: According to the experts in “The Journal Of Dermatology” when Juvederm is injected properly into the lips, because of its highly dense Hyaluronic Acid, it can last a little over one year with one visit. There can be more swelling using Juvederm since it is a densely concentrated form of Hyaluronic Acid, therefore it is imperative that it is injected by a “Board Certified Plastic Surgeon” One who is Certified by the “The American Board Of Medical Specialties” (ABMS) to certify Physicians in the full range of Plastic and reconstructive procedures. And because the Hyaluronic molecule is larger, and more concentrated, the down time (swelling) can sometimes last for approximately a week.

CHEEKBONES AND JAW LINE: You might notice that your face is becoming narrower as the years go by. The malar region or “cheekbones” lose volume and eventually sag while your jaw line might become less prominent. Fillers like Sculptra can be injected in the hollow portion of your face, below your cheekbones or along the jaw line. This treatment can last up to two years. Sculptra is a synthetic biodegradable simple lactic acid based sugar that is injected into the face or hands to increase thickness and volume of the skin by stimulating new collagen production. This compound has been widely used in dissolvable sutures for more than forty years and does not require skin testing. Sculptra has been FDA approved to “restore and/or correct facial fat lose” and hollowness that occurs in aging. Patients with loss of facial and hand volume contour as a consequence of normal aging have noticed significant improvement in the quality of life with the rejuvenation and benefits achieved by Sculptra. Unlike temporary “fillers” such as collagen and Hyaluronic Acid, Sculptra stimulates your skins own fibroblast to actually generate new collagen. Contour and volume loss in cheekbones, temple area, and jaw line are restored gradually over a few weeks to months as the body forms new collagen. At least four to several treatment sessions are usually required to achieve the desired effect which occurs gradually and usually last up to two years.

THE TEAR TROUGH: (Is the groove at the juncture between where the lower eyelid and the cheek) As we age, one of the changes which is commonly noticed and commented on is the appearance and gradual worsening of dark circles, or a hollowness under the eyelids. This occurs due to the thinning of the overlying skin and soft tissue over the bony orbital rim. An increasing popular treatment is the use of injectable fillers, especially in patients in their late 30′s or 40′s to essentially fill out the trough. Over the past decade injectable fillers such as Restylane and Perlane which again are Hyaluronic Acid- a natural tissue component produced by the body have been used with excellent safety and effectiveness. Minor bruising is uncommon with this procedure, but it can occur and will usually disappear over 10 days. Most bruising is superficial and light and is easily concealed with makeup.

A first course treatment consist of an office visit for treatment, then a follow up office visit two weeks later to reassess and top up if necessary. Patients may undergo a repeat course of top retreatment if desired to replace any filler which has slowly dissolved overtime which is usually 12-18 months later.

NOTE: It’s also important to know if for some reason you are dissatisfied or unhappy with your result, it is reversible. This is a major advantage; a small injection of hyalase into the injected area can be used quickly to dissolve the filler.

URROWS: The lines between your eyebrows can look rejuvenated with Botox, which relaxes frown lines. Most brow furrow lines are formed by excessive contraction of the two major muscles in the forehead, the “Corrugation” and the “Procerus” muscles. Botox works to relax these muscles by blocking nerve impulses that trigger wrinkle- causing muscle contractions, creating a smooth and improved appearance between the brows. Administered in a few tiny injections of purified protein, this minimally invasive treatment is simple and quick and delivers dramatic results with minimally invasive treatment. Results can be seen within 24-48 hours and the effect can last up to 4-8 months. A Botox lift, (brow lift) makes the muscle weak. That is how it relaxes facial lines, especially around the peri-orbital area (crow’s feet.) If Botox is placed around the eye below the level of the brow it will relax those muscles. If those muscles are relaxed they can’t pull down on the brow. Thus you get a mild brow lift. It opens up the eyes, making it appear as though you got a temporal lift. It arches and elevates the eyebrows. It can even be injected by a skilled Plastic Surgeon on vertical lines; “smokers” lip lines, and elevate drooping corners of the mouth. The FDA’S approval is an important Corporate Accomplishment. Clinical studies show that Botox is “safe” and effective for aesthetic use, commented “Lester J Kaplan PHD”, Allergans President of research and development. Botox does not stop the clock from aging, but it does return a rejuvenated appearance to the face. There is NO downtime with Botox. After this 10 minute procedure, you are able to continue regular activity. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin protein produced by bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. Though it can be highly toxic, it is used in minute doses both to treat painful muscle spasm, and as a cosmetic treatment in some parts of the world.

Do Not Use Botox if you have an infection where Botox will be injected, allergic to any ingredient in Botox Cosmetic, Or if you are Pregnant.

Botox should not be used to erase every line or crevasse on your face. This would be “overdoing” it. You should remain with some expression and movement on your face. Unfortunately an example of this can be seen on many “Hollywood” actresses today. Their foreheads appear frozen, expressionless, this SHOULD NOT be you goal. You simply want to soften the edges of aging, not completely wipe out all expression, this is a HUGE mistake many women make, and some men as well. It takes away from who from whom they were, “esthetically.” The KEY to all fillers is to not let anyone know you’ve had any work done at all! You should just look rejuvenated and refreshed.

Until Next time, be well.
Laurie Lombardi

African American Skintones

The most important cosmetic for this skintone is foundation with a blue undertone, so facial skin doesn’t look dull or ashy. Shimmery eyeshadows in shades like amber work nicely. Peachy-coral blushes add warmth to the cheeks, and can also be used as eyeshadow from the inner corner of your eye up towards your eyebrow. No lipliner is necessary since lips have a natural fullness. Crème or matte bronze shades are ideal for lipstick.

Latina or Asian Skintones

Foundation should have a yellow undertone (such as bisque or beige) with a slight reddish cast to it, to add warmth. Taupes and ambers work well on the eyes. Avoid shades that are too gray, since they’ll overemphasize the yellowness in these skintones. Blushes in reddish or currant hues add a perfect glow to cheeks. Lips can also be lined with a red currant shade and then filled-in with a goldish shimmery lipstick.

Caucasian or Fair Skintones

For eyes and cheeks, taupes and bronzes look great. Be sure your shades aren’t too brown, to avoid looking unnatural. Ruby lips are fine, but make sure that the shade complements your foundation well, and doesn’t wash out the skin. To add overall warmth and get rid of sallow paleness, a bronzer should be applied with a large fluffy brush (never with a small contour brush – you’ll get streaks). Sweep allover face for a healthy glow. This also allows for darker eye, lip, and cheek colors to be used. To highlight the eyes, lavender works well, especially when mixed with taupe, and applied to the outer corners.

Olive Skintones

There’s practically no color that olive-skinned women can’t wear! Pinks happen to look especially terrific. Reds are absolutely wonderful to warm the skin’s yellow undertone.

Last Words

Laurie reminds us that, even more than color, it’s the application that truly counts! For foolproof cosmetic usage, follow the natural structure of your face, and contour it using earth tones. Then, accentuate with color. Once you find the right technique for the shape of your face, you’ll actually need less makeup, since you’ll be bringing your best features forward.

“Many brides make the mistake of not looking like themselves on their wedding day,” says makeup artist Laurie Lombardi. “You want to look better, not different.” Here’s Lombardi’s advice on getting ready to walk down the aisle:

• Always meet with the hair and makeup people a few weeks before the wedding to avoid any surprises the day of.
• Use a waterproof mascara to prevent makeup migration when you say “I do”. Since waterproof formulas can be drying, shield lashes with a coar of your regular mascara before you apply waterproof.
• Choose a transfer-resistant, long-lasting lipstick so you don’t have to constantly re-apply. Pick a formula with a shimmer or sweep on a coat of gloss since shiny lips look better in pictures.
• Even if you don’t usually wear powder, dust your face with a loose one to help set makeup and prevent shiny skin. Have some handy at the reception for touch-ups.
• Shimmer creams are a great way to create a fresh, healthy glow. Apply a silver shade from the top of your cheek and blend out toward your temple.

Sunscreens are credited with helping to prevent sunburn, skin aging and skin cancer by absorbing and reflecting the suns rays. The sun emits many different type of rays, some we can see and some we can’t. Ultra violet radiation or UV radiation is invisible but potentially dangerous. UVA radiation or long wave length UV rays are less likely to cause sunburn than those of shorter wave length or UVB radiation, however it is the UVA radiation which is more likely to liberate oxygen free radicals which damage DNA and possibly lead to skin cancer.

Most commercial sunscreen/lotion products provide some protection against UVB and UVA radiation, but only a few products focus on UVA filtration and many of these compounds are not particularly stable.

The best sunscreen compounds protect against both UVB (sunburn causing radiation) and UVA (cancer and premature aging radiation). These compounds contain either an organic chemical (oxybenzone) which will absorb UV light, or a compound that will only reflect the suns harmful rays. The reflecting compounds commonly used are either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, or a combination of both. Most of us remember zinc oxide as the white cream the life guards put on their noses or the mother put on their babies skin to protect them from diaper rash. The good new about zinc oxide today is that it can treated and made micro-fine. It therefore becomes a light weight cream without the opaque whiteness, but maintains its important ability to reflect the suns rays.

Many people apply sunscreen when they participate in outdoor activities, especially in the summer time. However, most experts suggest applying sunscreen throughout the year to prevent cumulative sun damage and therefore lower the risk skin cancer. Other individuals who will benefit for daily application of sunscreen are those who have undergone skin laser treatments or anyone who may be prone to hyper pigmentation or “age or brown spots”. Here are two helpful hints about when and how much sunscreen you should apply is the following. Apply it 30 minutes before exposure to the sun. Assuming the average adult build is 5′ 4″, 150 pounds, with a 32 inch waist, the proper amount of sunscreen needed to apply to someone wearing a bathing suit is approximately one fluid ounce or 30 grams. This amount should be applied evenly to all uncovered areas of the skin.

Of interest is the fact that sunscreen can inhibit the production of vitamin D which is necessary for the transport of calcium into our bodies from our gut. Optimum Vitamin D production requires only about 15 minutes of direct sun exposure.

SPF or sun protecting factor, is how we rate a sunscreen’s ability to protect us from getting sunburn. Beware of the products that claim “all day protection”, a SPF over 30 does not provide significantly better protection. Also, most formulations are not water resistant and should be reapplied after swimming; prolonged sunbathing or exercising (even if the product states that it is waterproof or sweat proof). All sunscreens are given a SPF number between 4 and 30 and you should determine which one is best for you. Most dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15. However, the level of protection a person needs is usually based upon his or her tanning history. For example, people with pale complexions should use a SPF of 30, while those with darker complexions may need one of 15. To be safe, it is always best to ask a pharmacist which SPF would work best for you. It is also important to tell your pharmacist if you are taking any medications, since this also can be a factor in the way the sun will affect you. Some medications may contain chemicals that will allow the skin to absorb UV radiation and therefore cause sunburn. For example, medicines like some antibiotics, antihistamines, oral contraceptives, tricyclic antidepressants and most acne medications.

There are other ways to protect your skin as well. Dermatologists can not stress enough how important it is to avoid sun exposure during peak hours. The suns rays are the strongest between 10am and 2pm. The best sun protection is to avoid it. Covering ones skin with clothing, even on a cloudy day, is an excellent way to protect your skin and remember to read labels and ask questions!

Sunscreen vs. Sun Block

These are two different products used for similar, but different purposes.

Sunscreen is a cream or lotion that is SPF rated. It reacts with the skin to create an invisible barrier against the sun. The strength of the barrier is determined by the SPF number. A lower number means less protection. Using a sunscreen will not prevent you from tanning, but it will lower your risk of getting burned. Remember, sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. This will insure that your skin has enough time to absorb it.

Sun block does not have a SPF rating, because it protects the skin by not allowing harmful UV radiation to reach the skin. Therefore, when buying a sun block the packaging should not advertise a SPF rating because none is necessary.

Here is a guideline to determine your skin type:

• Type 1: Always burns and never tans.
• Type 2: Usually burns and tans with difficulty.
• Type 3: Sometimes burns and sometimes tans.
• Type 4: Burns minimally and usually tans (Asians, Native and Latin Americans).
• Type 5: Rarely burns and tans predominantly (light complexion African Americans and East Indians).
• Type 6: Never burns and tans deeply (dark complexion Africans).

Also, remember the skin is thinner on your face and chest. Therefore you may want to use sun block on those areas.

Suntan Oils

Suntan oils have two advantages; they are water-resistant and have very good moisturizing properties. This is because they prevent the loss of water through the skin as they form an occlusive layer on the skin. Most oils consist of mineral oil together with some other moisturizing oils. Some may contain different types of exotic oils from tropical fruits and plants like avocado, jojoba, coconut and mink oil.

Although, some of these oils are good for the skin, they are hardly effective for sunburn protection.

Sunless Tanners

In my opinion and experience, I believe it is best to have this done professionally. It allows for an even tan and the color looks like a real tan. This is a very safe way to get that beautiful tan look without risking the bad effects of UV radiation.

The active ingredient in sunless tanners is dihydroxyacetone or DHA. DHA is a simple, colorless sugar that is nontoxic. In fact, it is an intermediary in carbohydrate metabolism in the higher plants and animals. It is more rapidly metabolized than glucose in the body. DHA interacts with the superficial layer of dead skin located in the “stratum corneum” of the epidermis. As the sugar interacts wit the dead skin, a harmless color change occurs and DHA produces an artificial tan. The pigment produced is called a melanoid. This melanoid forms a polymer with the amino acids and proteins of the stratum corneum. DHA does not penetrate any further than the stratum corneum and is therefore confined to the outer most layer of dead skin.

The cosmetic acceptability of these products seems to have improved in recent years and more natural appearing browns and golden hues can now be produced. The older products and formulations that made the skin appear yellow and orange are no longer an issue.

So go treat yourself to a sunless tan and look beautiful and best of all — it’s safe!