Q: In the morning I look in the mirror and my face is really puffy (not attractive) Even if I get a good night sleep. What is up?

A: It is always good to take a look in the mirror; it's amazing what your face can tell you about your health. One tip is changing your eating habits. Try weaning off refined sugar, and you will notice a change almost within a day. Another tip is pay attention to spring-related allergens in the air. Allergies can cause irritated eyes, and even contribute to those dark circles and bags.

Q: In the summer heat, my makeup seems to slide off my face by midday. When I leave home in the morning, my makeup application looks great, but, by noon, it is another story. I do not like a heavy makeup look, and I want to look my best. I am in my 50s, and I need help!

A: I found an easy answer from Los Angeles makeup artist Napoleon Perdis. He recommends skipping thick foundations and saving your cream lipsticks for fall. His experience has taught him that makeup with a lighter texture—tinted moisturizer, cheek stain, bronzing gel, and lip gloss—will wear better in the heat and keep you looking fresh. Also, prep with primer. Trust us; it's worth the extra step. Primer fills in fine lines, helps makeup go on more smoothly, and, best of all, keeps makeup in place. Simply, apply a thin layer to your skin, lids, and even your lips, so your tinted moisturizer, eye shadow, and lip color will not move.

Q: I am overweight by at least 30 pounds, and my face appears very round. I am self-conscious, and I do not know how to best style my straight, limp brown hair.

A: I work with many women who have expressed similar concerns. As a professional, when I create a look for any women, I look at the whole person and then focus on their best features. With the right cut and color, your whole image changes, depending on your hair type and color and, also, what we would like to achieve. You may wish to accent particular strands of hair color or highlights, or you may prefer a color enhancer to bring out the natural shine. You can enhance hair texture and movement and slightly alter hair color, either a shade darker or lighter. You have more options than you can imagine!

Take a look:  A round face iRead More...

Q: In the last month, three clients told me how they apply styling aids in their morning regime. All three washed their hair, then dried it either with a dryer or let it air dry, until it was almost dry and then applied the styling aid. So, Liz, when do you add a styling product?

A: When you use gels, foams, or balm to enhance or straighten curly hair, for best results you should apply after you shampoo and conditioner, when the hair is wet. There are products you can apply to dry hair, but you need to read the instructions or ask your stylist.

Q: How can I tell my stylist what look I want, and that I might want a change?

A: Most stylists want to hear from you. If you are attracted to a new style, I suggest you make a copy of your favorite styles, and bring them to your next appointment. Your stylist can help you decide whether the style in your picture will work with your facial features and hair type.

Q: How should I clean my hair brushes?

A: This question is one I am frequently asked. Not only does hair build up on brushes, but using styling aids, such as hair sprays and gels, makes brushes seem impossible to clean. First, buy a cheap nylon brush from your local grocery store or Walgreen's. Use the cheap brush to remove hair buildup from your good hair brushes. Then, put your good hair brushes in the dishwasher, on the top shelf. Rigorous dishwasher cleaning will make your good hair brush like new. Wow!

Q: Do you talk about politics in the salon?

A: Since our clients feel that the salon is a safe place, many have told us that coming to the salon is better than therapy, and costs a lot less. Because of the trust and intimacy that we foster in our salon, clients love to share what is really on their mind, and this is an election year. We will certainly listen to our clients' concerns and, although stylists have a reputation for being tireless talkers, in reality, each stylist has to decide what she is willing to share with each client.

Q: I wear glasses. What can I do to look more fashionable?

A: You can start by creating a new hair style perhaps updating your hair color. Make sure your new haircut frames your face and brings out your best features. Then you can invest in a new pair of trendy glasses. The combination of a new haircut and new glasses will make all the difference and will give you a fashionable look that you can show off with confidence.

Q: How do I begin using greener products?

A: Choose one to three things that you can live without.

An easy first step is to buy products without artificial coloring. Many products, including toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and even soap, include coloring, which is unnecessary and doesn't add any additional performance or benefit to the product.

You can also stop buying anti-perspirants with aluminum. Studies have shown that aluminum is linked to Alzheimer's disease. Many companies have removed aluminum from anti-perspirants so just check the label before you buy.

Finally, don't purchase products with parabens, commonly used preservatives. Studies continue to show that these products, in foods, cosmetics, toiletries, and pharmaceuticals, are associated with a range of negative consequences.

Q: I have been going to the same stylist at the same salon for years. Now I would like to try another stylist in the salon but I am afraid I will offend my current stylist. I don't want to upset anyone. What is the proper protocol?

A: Your haircut is not about the stylist. It is about what makes you, the client, feel good and happy with the service you received. At our salon, we try to make sure our clients know they can try different stylists. Sometimes a client may be attracted to a different personality or may need a different perspective.
We are not offended by this and would prefer that you try other stylists here before you go to another salon. We can even work with you to help you find the best fit. Just ask.

Q: Will Tijeras products work in any climate?

A: To ensure that Tijeras products respond favorably in all climates, we test our products in the Unites States Southwest. This area of the country experiences extreme environmental conditions including harsh wind, intense sun, and side temperature variances. When our products work in these conditions, they will work anywhere.

Q: How do plant and herb extracts improve Tijeras product performance?

A: Essential oils are a natural source of aroma or fragrance, and ingredients such as sage, jojoba, aloe, and rosemary provide natural protection against harsh environmental conditions. They have unparalleled moisturizing and revitalizing properties. They are also biodegradable.

Q: What ingredients are the most problematic?

A: There are over 10,000 unique chemicals in personal care products including carcinogens and pesticides to reproductive toxins. Four major ingredients you should avoid are parabens, used as preservatives, propylene glycol, laurel sulfates, which produce suds, and synthetic colors or fragrances.

Q: Why should we care about the types of personal care products we use?

A: Men and women use between 10-15 different personal care products every day. This can amount to over 126 different products, all interacting with our skin. According to the Environmental Working Group, one-third of these products contain at least one ingredient linked to cancer. This is like having the chemical industry bottled in your bathroom and should be a big concern.

Q: My hair is really fine, so it tends to get oily easily. I don't want to wash it every day, as that makes it even worse! However, by the second day it doesn't feel good and wont do anything. What can I do?

A: I would try a dry shampoo such as Eufora Touch Up texturizing dry shampoo. Eufora Touch Up comes in clear for those who do not color their hair; or tinted (light and dark) for those who need a root touch-up between colors. You can pick it up at our Salon Tijeras Hair Co.

Also, as a reminder if you are using our Tijeras Naturals Shampoo and Conditioner, you can wash your hair every day without drying out your hair. Our products are specially formulated to gently cleanse so you shouldn't have a problem with excess oil stimulation.

Q: How can I get the "bed-head" look without just rolling out of bed in the morning?
 
A: We love this look on younger guys; however, if you are over the age of 40, it might just look lazy! To get this "hassle-free" hairstyle, try washing your hair at night and adding your hair products before you go to sleep. When you wake up, all you should have to do is a little bit of finger-combing and you have your bed-head hairstyle to make all the girls swoon.

Q: I have got into the habit of wearing my hair in a ponytail every day, is this bad for my hair?
 
A: You're right. Wearing a pony tail every day can cause breakage, snagging, or splintering of the hair. If wearing it down is not an option, maybe you play sports or work in a profession where you can't have your hair hanging down, or you just like the look of a sleek ponytail, there are preventative measures you can take in order to lesson the damage. First, make sure you aren't using plastic, rubber bands, or ponytail holders with metal on them, as these will snag on your hair, and cause breakage. Try for accessories covered in fabric or silk, as they are more delicate on your locks. Second, a nice trick is to first spritz your hair with a silicone spray before you put it up so it will glide more smoothly against any hair accessories.

Q: My hair tends to frizz up at the first sign of moisture. When it rains, I don't feel like there is anything I can do to tame this wild beast on my head. What are your suggestions for ways to minimize frizz, and ways I can wear my hair on windy days?

A: Good news! There is a new hair treatment service we are offering in the salon called the Brazilian  Blowout Zero. This revolutionary hair-smoothing formula is made with a breakthrough plant-derived "KaraSafe Bonding System." It's 100% safe to use and you'll have frizz-free hair for up to 12 weeks with lots of body and shine!
zero

Brazilian Blowout Açai Hair Care is an aftercare product regimen developed for the sole purpose of extending the life of the Brazilian Blowout Professional Smoothing Treatments.

Q: Lately I've noticed that when I get up in the morning, my hair has a lot of static! What is causing this phenomenon in my hair and how can I control it?

A:  During the winter months, your hair can accumulate static electricity due to environmental factors. The outside air is cold, inside you have your heaters which rob your hair and skin of moisture. All these factors can cause static build up in your hair!. While you can't control your environment all the time, you can use certain products to help alleviate the issue. Our new Tijeras Naturals hair-care line is perfect, because they help to penetrate and balance moisture in your hair, and alleviate static electricity. Even on your worst hair days, discover what a difference this three step system will make!

Q: When I go into a salon, stylists always recommend styling aids but I find them heavy and my hair does not look the same as when they do it in the salon. What is the problem?

A: Your instinct may be to apply your styling product such as mousse, spray or gel, to the top of your head  because , it's the spot that needs the most lift . But the truth is, that you have the least amount of hair at the crown and hairline, so it needs less product. Instead, work the product from the back of your head toward the front while massaging it into the roots. Then you will love working with styling products!

Q: I can't believe it! It is now 2010, and I looked in the mirror and realized I have been wearing the same haircut for 10 years. I am now approaching my fiftieth birthday, and I need a change. But, when I look in magazines all the hairstyles are for younger women. Where do I start?

A: Creating a new hairstyle for women over 40 is one of the most exciting and fascinating arts open to a hairdresser because the effects can be pleasingly dramatic. A mature woman will face many changes in her appearances. To start, hair may take on a lifeless appearance, which will drab out skin tones. There is no doubt that when a woman over 40 opts for an exciting new haircut and coloring, the change will definitely erase years from her actual age. I have books and albums with new looks you might like. Let's discover the perfect new look for you in 2010. Consultations are at no cost to you. Call: 255.5544.

Q: I am ready to change my hair from "mousy brown" to California blond. Can I do this at home?

A: Best not to do this at home! So many women write to me, wondering how they can fix a bad dye job done at home. If you want to change from brown to blonde, get thee to a hair salon! Hair coloring truly is an art form, with many elements to consider:  base hair color; underlying tones to pull up when lightening with more than two shades; and condition of hair.

Q: What is in style for hair? I am in my 40s and I want to go short, but I want to be stylish.

A: The classic look is perfect for most ages, with a new twist—it’s enhanced by a rich, brunette color.  Ask your stylist if this look would work for your hair type.

Q: Lately, I have read a few articles that recommend shampooing hair every two to three days, not daily. What do you think?

A: In my 20 years of salon experience, I have cut and styled the hair of customers of all ages, hair types, and life styles. Many wear trendy cuts and need styling aids on a daily basis to create their look. Others, who are more athletic, include exercise in their daily routine and need a daily shampoo. It is important that you assess your lifestyle and work around it. General rules may be helpful, but there are always exceptions to the rules, especially as they pertain to hair care.

It may be helpful to compare hair to a beautiful, fine fabric. As you know, fabrics vary in type and texture, and each needs to be cared for accordingly. Shampooing daily is appropriate for the hair types of most of my clientele. Daily shampooing, however, requires a gentle product. Using the right product wiRead More...

Q: How can I get my hair to look like the TV actresses', where it is fuller on the top of my head and flows into soft separation toward the bottom?

A: One trick uses Velcro rollers. Shampoo as usual. Then, blow dry to where your hair feels dry and cool to the touch. The rollers are fun and easy to use, with no clips to hold them in place. Whimsically place the rollers, trying different sizes to create your special look. Lightly spray with your favorite hair spray. While the rollers are doing their job, you can have your breakfast and get dressed. Right before you are about to walk out the door, give a once over with the hair dryer, and remove the rollers. Voila! You have the special look you were after!

Q: What's wrong with my hair and skin? Lately, my hair looks dull and is "fly away," and my skin is dry and scaly.

A: It might be time for a "detox." Let's start with your hair. We love those styling aids that we use daily, but over time they can build up on hair shafts and create dull, unmanageable hair. To detox your hair, you can use a clarifying shampoo. If you do not have one, try this trick: use Tijeras Organic Alchemy Clary & Cucumber shampoo, and shampoo your hair twice. Then, shampoo a third time, and leave it on your hair for a full five minutes. The third round of shampoo will thoroughly clean the pallet and enable the conditioner or Revitalizer to penetrate hair shafts. Now, your hair will be shiny again and styling aids will work for you. That was easy!

During winter months in the Southwest, low humidity often causes scaly, itchy skin. The best way to detox your skin is to use soothRead More...

Q: Is daily shampooing recommended even for curly hair?

A: This is the only exception to the general guidance to shampoo daily. For extremely curly hair, we have found that shampooing less frequently is better. On days that you do not shampoo, wet your hair in the shower, but use only conditioner. Then, comb through and blot dry with a paper towel, to remove moisture, lock in the curl, and eliminate frizz Avoid using a terry-cloth towel; toweling your hair dry removes all moisture, which may cause frizz.

Q: Does excessive washing cause hair loss and dryness?

A: This is a myth, that daily washing can cause hair loss or dryness. In fact, shampooing daily generally causes the opposite effect. Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type and texture will actually add moisture, as well as body, to your hair.

Q: Why does hair turn gray or white?

A: Heredity is the main reason hair turns gray or white. If your mom's or dad's hair started turning gray at a young age, then you may also become prematurely gray. Although not always the case, age plays a large part in the graying process. Pigments in the hair shaft are generated from cells at the base of the root of the hair. As we age, these cells produce less pigment (color), until no pigment is left in the hair. We end up with transparent hair. To read more about the graying process, check out this interesting web site.

Q: My hair has been turning gray for the past few years and I now color it every six weeks. Can I go gray gracefully? Would it be attractive?

A: You bet you can, and you can look fabulous. I have had great success helping women go gray and have received many testimonials from happy clients. You need to understand, however, that going gray gracefully is a process. In addition, the initial gray color will not be your natural gray color but will be close to it. If you are a blond, you may be able to become gray in a single application, but if you are a brunette, it may take several applications over a period time. There are many steps to go through so you need to talk to your stylist and discuss the time frame and cost. Here are some of the questions you should ask: Can this be accomplished in one salon visit? If not, how much time will it take to achieRead More...

Q: Next time I get a haircut, how can I make sure I get the cut I want and not the cut the stylist wants?

A: Having the right haircut can make a big difference. It can give you confidence and satisfaction. The key to getting the haircut you want is good communication between you and your stylist. Once you have found your stylist, make sure to talk about what kind of style and cut you want. Being in photos if you don't think you can describe what you want. Tell your stylist how much time you want to spend on your hair and what your lifestyle is like. Do you want to blow dry your hair every day or just spend five minutes getting ready? Do you work in a creative environment or in a more formal atmosphere? Watch your stylist as she dries your hair and ask questions so you can copy what she does.

Q: How long does it take to do extensions?

A: When you book your appointment, plan to spend at least two hours and probably more depending on the extensions you select and your hair style. The exact amount of time depends on the look you are trying to achieve.

Q: I am interested in hair extensions. What are my options?

A: Hair extensions come in many options that are fun and glamorous. Make sure your stylist has experience with the kind of extensions you select. Temporary clip-ons are the least damaging to your hair. Once your stylist has designed and created your total look, you can reapply the clip-ons yourself. Another approach, which I recommend, is having your experienced stylist weave the extensions into your own hair. Then you can wear your hair down or up for special occasions. A third approach is gluing the extensions into the hair shaft. However, this can damage your hair so please consult a stylist before you have this type of extension added into your hair.

Q: I'm a 56-year old professional. My hair is wavy and about 40% grey, which I like. I have been a wash-and-wear woman for most of my life. However, my hair is now unbecoming and unmanageable and is more frizzy than curly. Do you have any suggestions?

A: The hairstyle we wear during our 20s, 30s, and 40s doesn't always work as we grow older. Grey is beautiful and can be an accent color when creating a new look. Instead of using a gel to lock in your curls, create an elegant look for 2008 by using a straightener to create a smooth high-gloss shine for your hair and give your grey hair a new texture. A new cut that has dimensions will bring the total look together. All you'll have to do to have an elegant, simple, and  beautiful look is blow dry your hair and finish with a round brush

Q: I am in my late 20s and I have a receding hairline. What is the best cut for me now? Should I use styling products?

A: A short cut, especially in the front, will de-emphasize your receding hairline. We also recommend that you use a light gel to give you an updated look.

Q: I hate my hair. What can I do?

A: Believe it or not, this is one of the most common complaints we hear in the salon. We can help everybody make the most of the hair they were born with.

Hair texture is really a beautiful fabric. It has movement and reflects light. It adorns your facial features.

Q: I wash my hair every day. Do I still need to shampoo twice?

A: Yes. We recommend that you shampoo your hair twice, even if you wash your hair every day. The first shampoo loosens dirt and build up. The second shampoo removes the dirt from your hair and prepares the hair shaft so the conditioner can penetrate it.

Q: I have adult acne, and the typical products out there contain harsh ingredients that dry out my skin or make my acne worse. Can you recommend any natural remedies I can try?

A: There are a number of natural products you can use in combination to lessen your acne. However, first you need to start with developing good daily habits. Make sure you are washing your face twice a day with a mild cleanser, washing your pillow case frequently, and most important of all is eating right and getting plenty of exercise. Tea Tree Oil is a good natural product as it has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties which will aid in killing acne bacteria. Use caution when using pure tea tree however, as many people have sensitive skin and it is very strong. Try diluting it with either water or aloe vera for a soothing effect when treating affected areas. You can also make your own face mask with baking soda (to soak up excess oil on your skin), honey (anti-bRead More...

Q: I have all these red bumps on the backs of my upper arms, it almost looks like a rash or hives. I went to a dermatologist and they diagnosed it as something called "Karatosis Pilaris." It is a harmless condition but I can't get rid of them! Do you have any suggestions on what I can do to help?

A: Karatosis Pilaris is a common skin condition where keratin in the skin forms hard plugs within the hair follicles. It occurs most often on people with very dry skin so the trick is daily exfoliation and moisturizing. We found a nifty product from Lush handmade Cosmetics that does both at once. It's called Buffy Body Butter and contains bits of rice, almonds & beans for exfoliation, and coca & shea butter for soft, moisturized skin. Or you can use Tijeras Organic Alchemy Body Washes, that come in Read More...

Q: What are some ways I can pamper and take care of my skin? I use a daily moisturizer on my body, but is there something else I should be doing?

A: Yes! There are many options for achieving healthy, glowing skin. First, you can soak in the tub with a bath salt such as our Tijeras Organic Alchemy Wild Primrose Bath Salts. The natural emollients help sooth, hydrate, and refresh your skin. Also, body scrubs will help get rid of old, dry skin, revealing a youthful glow. If you live in a dry climate and need extra care, try a homemade moisturizer with almond or grape seed oil s mixed with your favorite essential oils.  You can add these to a bath or apply directly to dry areas. Keep up this regime a couple times a week, and you will have brand new, radiant skin!

Q: I am a woman in my 50's and I find myself overwhelmed every time I go to the beauty isle for personal care products- there are so many products out there! Do you have any tips on what skin-care products I should be looking for to narrow down my search?
 
A: You should be looking for products with Pentapeptides - this is a chemical in many new products that will help produce collagen in skin cells. Collagen helps support skin by giving it a firmer look, and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. Another ingredient you should be looking for are retinoids. Retinoids help skin cell turnover, giving your skin a youthful appearance.  Although, you should consult a doctor before use, as some retinoid creams will make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Make sure to always use protective sunscreens while exposed to the sun, especially during these summer months!

Q: I always hear about skin types, and how they affect what products you use, and even makeup applications. How do I determine my skin type?

A: Determining your skin type is based upon amounts of oil secretion, and where the different areas of your skin produce (or do not produce) oil. This is mostly decided by heredity, although environmental factors can certainly intensify conditions. Here are the 6 skin types--dry; somewhat dry; normal; somewhat oily; oily; or combination. Combination skin is the most common; it is characterized by being oily in the T-zone (area of your forehead and nose) and normal to dry elsewhere. You can also have "sensitive" skin, in which case you should try and minimize the number of products you use on your skin, and use natural or fragrance free products. Tijeras Naturals carries both hair care and body care lines specifically designed for sensitive skin. Try our Uber Unscented Daily Shampoo & Conditioner or Tijeras Organic Alchemy Unscented Body Wash.

Q: I am a woman in my 50's and I find myself overwhelmed every time I go to the beauty isle for personal care products- there are so many products out there! Do you have any tips on what skin-care products I should be looking for to narrow down my search?

A: You should be looking for products with Pentapeptides - this is a chemical in many new products that will help produce collagen in skin cells. Collagen helps support skin by giving it a firmer look, and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. Another ingredient you should be looking for are retinoids. Retinoids help skin cell turnover, giving your skin a youthful appearance.  Although, you should consult a doctor before use, as some retinoid creams will make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Make sure to always use protective sunscreens while exposed to the sun, especially during these summer months!

Here's a question I was asked just last week, but it's one that comes up frequently:

Q: As we get older where do I go for new makeup applications for women over 50?

A: I recommend first finding a professional make up artist aged 40+, who can relate to mature women's issues of aging.

For my clients, I also recommend making a change in your choice of foundation. Try this:

It contains a soft tint that blends in with any completion and leaves your skin soft and pliable for your blush and eye application.

Titanium, Iron & Zinc Oxide, uniquely formulated to offer sheer, elegant protection with a silky-smooth, matte finish, TIZO3 offers unparalleled aesthetic elegance while providing superb photoprotective performance. TIZO3 is specially formulated without "chemical sunscreen" filters to offer UVA/UVB light protection.

TIZO3 is paraben, oil, PABA and fragrance free.
Ask for it at the front desk at Tijeras Hair Co.!
$37.00

Q:  Oh, no! What is happening? My facial features seem to be fading away! I used to have beautiful, dark eyebrows. Now, they are mousy and thinning out, and they even have some white hairs.

A: I hear this from many clients. As we age, we become more authentic and interesting, but our features do seem to fade. I have learned a simple trick you might try doing:  waxing and shaping your eyebrows, to give your eyes enhanced definition. At the salon, we recommend that you make your eyebrow appointment the same time you schedule your haircut. At home, with your mascara wand, go lightly over your eyebrows to define them a bit more. You can use a cotton swab to dab off excess mascara.

Q: I have always worn make-up, including blush. As I get older, I do not know what is age appropriate. Should I wear blush, or just go natural?

A: One of my favorite mentors is Bobbi Brown, so I went directly to her for the answer to your question:

“When it comes to blush, most women I know fall into two camps: they either can't live without it, or they shy away from it because they worry they'll look clown-like. I think everyone looks better with blush. It's the easiest way to look pretty, healthy, and radiant.

Picking the perfect shade of blush isn't rocket science. The right color should work with your complexion and look like your cheeks when you exercise or blush. If you have to work hard to blend your blush, the color is too dark or too bright.

Q: Recently, when looking in the mirror, I was shocked to see crow's feet around my eyes. Any suggestions?

A: You have several options, but the easiest one is to use an eye cream or gel that contains caffeine, which temporarily tightens the skin. Be sure to wear sun glasses whenever you need them and particularly in sunny weather because squinting exacerbates crow's feet.

Q: As I age, the circles under my eyes are becoming darker. Any suggestions?

A: This can be caused by excessive sun exposure and hormonal changes. Using an eye cream containing a safe bleaching agent, such as hydroquinone or kojic acid, can help lighten dark circles. Make sure the cream contains at least SPF 15 to prevent further sun-induced darkening. You might also try using a creamy concealer with a yellow undertone to camouflage.

Q: Until recently, my eyelashes were long and black. As I get older, they seem to be thinning to the point of almost disappearing. I have heard of eyelash dye. Is this a safe process, and how long does it last?

A: In the Tijeras salon, we use Permalash, which comes from the United Kingdom and is specifically created for eyelashes and eyebrows. The special Permalash formulation provides safe and effective coverage, with color lasting up to six weeks. As is true for any hair or lash color, you will get better results over time. Permalash has been widely sold in the UK for more than 20 years, with great results.

Q: What is Juvederm?

A: Juvederm is a natural product made with hyaluronic acid (HA). Scientifically, HA is a polysaccharide capable of holding 1,000 times its molecular weight in water. As we age, our bodies produce less and less HA, so supplements or topical aids may be used to restore the look of moist, young skin. With Juvederm, you are replenishing the HA you had in your youth but started to lose in recent years. Generally, it is recommended for use around the mouth, to fill in the martinet lines.

Q: I have heard that Botox^® cosmetic enhancer contains botulism.

A: Actually, most medications are derivatives of bacterial mold sources, for example, penicillin. Botox^® is a medication derived from a bacterial source but not botulism.

Botox^® is recommended for use on the face, but only in the areas between and above the eyes and only on the recommendation of your experienced doctor. It is used most often to eliminate age lines between the eyes and help maintain a more-youthful appearance.

Q: I am over 50 and seeing new signs of age creeping in. I want to look my best, but I don't know how to begin. How should I start?

A: Let's start with a simple technique that is easy for women to maintain. As we age, we grow fine hair follicles on our face, which can make us feel and look older. The fine hairs should be removed because they act as a block, preventing even the most expensive creams from penetrating into the skin. Waxing is an easy way to remove fine facial hairs.

Beyond simple hair removal, waxing acts as an activator to stimulate your own collagen for a more youthful appearance. It also works to slough off accumulated dead skin, which often makes your skin look older and tired. Waxing the upper lip eliminates unattractive, dark shadows, and the exfoliation will help minimize the fine lines that appear.

Eyebrow waxing and shaping gives you an open space to enhance your eyes. Some women have fine hairRead More...

A:  I hear this in the salon every day. Of course, start with good lifestyle habits:  gentle, natural skin-care routine, healthy well-balanced diet, moderate exercise, minimal stress, sufficient sleep, and other good-health habits that will benefit your well-being. Do not forget sunscreen.

That said, the aging process is unique to each individual, but premature aging can be controlled to some degree. As we age, our skin's natural elasticity requires more nurturing to prevent dehydration, and facial massage is a great way to keep your skin well toned.

Some women grow into greater beauty as they mature. For others needing a little help, a makeup update every now and then is the best way to maximize beauty at Read More...

Q: Is there anything I can do to avoid age spots?

A: Age spots have been a big topic of conversation recently in the salon. Age spots, also called liver spots, are flat, discolored areas, mostly circular in shape, that usually appear on the upper body. They range from deep brown to light tan in color. Although there are many contributing factors, the main cause of age spots is exposure to the sun. Others may include impaired liver function, an overabundance of free radicals in the body, poor diet, and genetic predisposition. The best way to avoid age spots is to use sun block and protective clothing and limit the time you spend in direct sunlight. Other measures include drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Unfortunately, some people develop age spots despite preventive measures. If you notice any unusual skin blemishes, have them eRead More...

Q: Can you suggest ways to help my itchy scalp, especially this winter? Do the products I use cause my scalp itch?

A: It is always a good idea to check the ingredient label to make sure there is nothing on the list that you are allergic to. You can also test your products by eliminating one at a time from your regime to see if it makes any difference. We have found that the usual cause of an itchy scalp is lack of scalp stimulation, reaction to a medication, or excessive heat in the shower at home or work. We offer a wonderful treatment that manipulates your scalp to increase blood flow, which loosens your scalp and alleviates the itching. Ask us about it when you make your next appointment.

Q: I have facial hair. Not only is it on my upper lip, but I have fine hair on my cheeks and coarse hair on my chin. Help! I think lasering it too expensive and I hear waxing will make the hair grow back thicker and coarser. What are my options?

A: That is a myth about waxing. In fact, your hair follicles get weaker with waxing and, after a while, you do not have to wax as often. In the beginning you should wax about every 3 weeks. Then, depending on the growth, you can wait longer. Call us to make an appointment for our waxing services. We are sure you will be pleased with the results.

Q: My girlfriend loves the look of my beard and mustache but complains that they are rough and coarse. Do you have any suggestions to help make them softer?

A: Facial hair tends to be coarser and more wiry than scalp hair. To keep it soft, use the same products that you use on your hair. A mild shampoo and conditioner daily will help. Once a week, use a more intensive conditioner like our Crimson Clove Revitalizer. You will love the results, and so will she. Remember to keep your beard and mustache trimmed even if you like them long.