Year: 2013

Showing Off Your Best Eyes

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Makeup

Ever noticed that celebrities seem to have eyes that could stop traffic? With the right makeup, your eyes could look that spectacular. You probably already have all the makeup you’ll need in your cosmetic bag. Check out our attention-grabbing makeup tips.

Focus inside

Most makeup tips suggest color on the outer edges of the eye, but you can draw attention and brighten your eyes by putting a light shimmery shadow in the inside corner. Try using a light pink or white shadow. You’ll still want to add your normal eye shadow above the crease but the little dash of color on the inside will really open your eyes.

Go thick
Your eyelashes frame your eyes, so it’s important to get those lashes looking their best. Try a lash-extending mascara (I sell two kinds!) and apply two healthy coats after curling your lashes. Give them a minute or two to dry in between applications. When applying, rock the mascara wand back and fourth to coat each lash and avoid clumps.

Subtle lines
You’ll want to add a line of eyeliner to the bottom and top of your eyelid. Draw a subtle line close to your lash line. Start in the middle of your eye and draw the line out, getting thicker as you approach the outer corner.

There is no gene for makeup application so If you aren’t a makeup maven, you can always come in for a makeup lesson!

Beating the Summer Pigmentation Blues

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Skincare

As summer winds down you may notice that your skin is looking dull, tired, and dry. I know I see it in clients all the time as August rolls around. Sun, wind, salt, chlorine, and too much fun can be hard on the skin.

Signs of sun damage like wrinkles, brown spots, freckles, and blotchy skin are also more prevalent in the summer. Sun damage that you see today, like light from the stars, was created in the past. What we see today was done years ago in our fun loving and too often SPF free youth.

The best protection you can give the skin from future sun damage is to stay out of it and use proper SPF, but for the damage that was already done, well it’s time to start repairing it with the right facials and daily skin care routine.

Pigmentation needs a four pronged approach.

1) Protect from future damage with SPF EVERY DAY.

2) Topical brightener to reduce superficial topical discoloration.

3) A topical melanin inhibitor that will reduce more pigmentation from forming.

4) Dedication and time. Pigmentation needs time to repair.
To speed up the process a series of pigment busting facials will always help. The Hydrafacial, Epicuren Four Layer Enzyme, or Switch Treatment are all excellent options to get you on the road to clearer and brighter skin. Come in and see which series would be right for you. Either way, your summer skin will thank you.

Eat For Your Face

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Skincare, Wellness

We all know eating healthy and exercising are the best steps to ensure a long life. While every doctor encourages you to eat your fruits and vegetables, you should also take note of a few foods that can improve the look of your skin. Your skin needs certain vitamins to stay youthful and wrinkle-free. Check out the top four vitamins you should be sure to include in your diet to keep your skin looking radiant.

Vitamin C
This multi-faceted vitamin promotes collagen growth and offers protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Foods with Vitamin C:

  • peppers
  • fresh herbs
  • broccoli
  • oranges
  • strawberries

Vitamin E
Your skin needs Vitamin E to fortify its cell membranes. In other words, this vitamin acts as a guardian, keeping healthy elements in and bad ones out.
Foods with Vitamin E:

  • nuts
  • seeds
  • avocados

Selenium
This vitamin helps maintain your skin’s elasticity. It keeps your skin from drying and stretching, which in turn, fights wrinkles.
Foods with Selenium:

  • eggs
  • seafood
  • wheat germ

Omega-3
Technically Omega-3 is a fat, but it’s a good fat. Studies show Omega-3 can reduce acne and fight other irritations like dry, flaky skin.
Foods with Omega-3:

  • fish
  • poultry
  • cereal

If you’re looking to boost the effects of vitamins and bring your skin back to its youthful state, come by and get a facial. A facial revives tired skin, revealing a fresh and young looking you.

It’s Going to Be a Cruel Cruel Summer

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Skincare

We’re in the midst of summer and everyone knows what that means – high heat and sweaty skin. And since it feels like August instead of July out there our summer is going to be hotter than ever!

During the summer, many of us enjoy pool, hiking, or walking on the beach. This is why a GOOD SPF is needed. I always recommend the Epicuren SPF’s since there’s one for whatever your lifestyle needs. Chemical free, ultra light weight Zinc SPF 20, Water resistant but not goopy Active Sport SPF 30, and Xtreme Cream 45 with propolis for those extreme days in the sun. I also love the Jane Iredale Dream Tint SPF 15 for a coverage that protects and conceals but won’t sweat off, or my all time favorite car SPF PowderMe SPF 30 which is powdered titanium and zinc that won’t go bad in high heats – like your glove box!

Ocean water is full of salt and even just being by it can leave your skin dry to the touch due to the sticky salty air. On days like these, there’s nothing better than taking a good shower to wash everything from your skin with a gentle exfoliation. One of the best ways to do this is by gently exfoliating your body with a Cactus Cloth and a gentle body wash. Of course there’s I shouldn’t need to say this, but lets just in case -avoid exfoliating sunburned skin since this will only further irritate it and cause pain and flare up. However, if you’re in the “peeling” stage of a sunburn,(which won’t happen if you wear and reapply a good quality SPF!) go ahead and gently exfoliate the area; it will help speed up the process.

After you’re left feeling clean and refreshed, make sure to nourish your skin.I personally love mixing in a small squeeze of Injablu with Restore Hydrating Lotion for added skin benefits. Not only will it soften your skin but it will help keep it hydrated in the summer heat.

Do You Know What’s in Your Skincare?

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Skincare, Wellness

Knowing what’s in your skincare products is not only an important step to achieving great skin, but research suggests it can also lead to better health. According to a study conducted by Chemical Safe Skincare Research in 2006, the average woman absorbs more than five pounds of toxins annually from her bath, body and skin care products.

Scientists have linked many of the toxic chemicals used in skin and body care products to such problems as allergies, gene modification, reproductive hormonal disruption, endocrine disruption and even cancer.

The effect prolonged exposure of these chemicals can have on the body has never thoroughly been studied, but considering the health concerns they have been linked to, minimizing their use is certainly wise.

If you’ve purchased a product from me, then you know I’ve done my research on it’s efficacy and safety, but if you have anything sitting around not from me you may want to take a look at it. The number one thing I tell people to stay away from is Laurel or Laureth sulfate, Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycolic, and SPF’s with a lot of chemicals in them.

It is likely that just about every skin care product on your vanity or in your bathroom contains one or more of the ingredients listed above. Before panicking and getting into a frenzied attempt to toss them all, it is important to note that in many cases, the amount of these chemicals used in skin care products is minimal. But knowledge of these ingredients, and how to spot them on labels is certainly very useful as it can help you to make informed choices and reduce how often you come into contact with them.

Sunburn SOS

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Skincare

It happens to the best of us. Here’s how to handle the situation stat! Keep it cool and damp. It takes up to 24 hours for a burn to stop burning into the skin. Cover the area with Mud Puddle and get fast relief! This Hungarian mud reduce redness and inflammation and aid in the healing process. You can also add it to a cool bath and just soak in it. Moisturize with a healing cooling gel like Noni which is a Hawaiian secret. Once the burn isn’t hot to the touch you can use a thicker moisturizer to help avoid bad peeling.

Protect Yourself From Fungus

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Skincare

Summer is full of wet, hot, sweaty fun – especially by pools. It doesn’t matter if it’s your own, a friends or a public hangout, pools are great substitution for beaches. When it comes to pools, however, we should all keep in mind the possibility of contracting a fungal infection.

According to Water’s Edge Dermatology, “It is easy to get a fungal infection. Fungi spread easily from person to person. Many people get a fungal infection through close personal contact with someone who has a fungal infection…Fungi grow quickly in warm, moist areas. For most people, a fungal infection causes a mild rash or itching.”

Some of the possible fungal infections include Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis), Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis, Tinea Unguium), Jock itch (Tinea Cruris), Ringworm (Tinea Corporis) and Scalp Ringworm (Tinea Capitis). The good news is there are some ways to protect yourself.

A few simple things can help protect you from fungus.

  • Footlogix Rough Skin Protective Mousse. It works on keeping the foot tissue protected from fungal infection, while healing and hydrating that skin.
  • Use powder in areas you are going to get sweaty like bikini line, under breasts, balls, and between butt cheeks.
  • Avoid using or sharing another person’s towel and comb/brush.
  • Don’t wear another person’s shoes or sandals.
  • Don’t keep wet bathing suits on for longer than necessary.

Don’t let a fungal infection put a damper on your summer! Just be cautious of your surroundings and follow the tips above to help avoid them. Remember, if by chance you do contract an infection; visit your doctor for advice on how best to treat it.

Confessions of an Esthetician

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Opinion

As the person who removes your hair and picks your face it can be hard being me. I hate causing you pain. Every time you cringe I die a little inside. I know you want to be waxed, but the idea of making you suffer is hard on me. I try and make every clients visit as comfortable as possible, but there are a few things you can do to help. Take an aspirin or ibuprofen about a half hour before your hair removal service. While you’re at it, pop a Tums or other antacid if you’ve been treating yourself a little hard. I know it sounds odd, but if you smoke or drink a lot of caffeine or alcohol, it creates acid in your body. Acid makes your skin more sensitive, leading to more pain and redness.

Wear your SPF. I know I feel like a nag, but you’re aging your skin and promoting cancer. I love that you are coming to see me on a regular basis. It means you care about your skin! So please be just as concerned with the future of your skin by slathering the stuff on and re-apply on a regular basis.

Treatment is cumulative. Please do not think I’m trying to up-sell you when I ask you to rebook, upgrade to a more expensive service, or pick up product. I do this because it’s what will help your skin in the long term. Just as poor diet, air pollution, and overexposure to the sun will slowly damage your skin, a healthy, young skin will be your reward for taking my advice to heart. I work with all kinds of budgets and lifestyles, but my work is only as good as your compliance.

It’s okay if you just want to chill. No matter which service you’ve come in for, you honestly don’t have to entertain me. I love to hear about you and your loved ones, and if that makes you relax (which for many is the case) then I’m happy to chat, but spa time is meant for YOU. You are my number one care. I want to relax and renew you. If that means you just want to lie there and contemplate the meaning of life, I’m cool with that. In fact, I’d probably do the same.

You are beautiful. You are amazing. And although my job is to help you be the most beautiful and healthy you possible – you are perfect JUST AS YOU ARE. Do you know how often I’ve heard you complain about your wrinkles, your cellulite, the length of your lashes, the size of your butt, or apologize for the condition of your skin? It’s fine if you need to vent, but please know that it bothers me when you can’t see your own beauty. We are going to work on all the things you want to improved, but I want you to know that I don’t have one single client who looks like you, has your life experience, or your particular sense of humor. In short, I really like you for YOU, and trust me if I didn’t I wouldn’t let you back on my book. My secret goal for every visit is that you see yourself with more grace and kindness, just as I see you. So please, please, PLEASE see yourself through my eyes – for the wonderful, beautiful, person you are. I can make you look and feel better, but only if you can see it. —you’re perfect.

3 Secrets to Beautiful Skin

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in Skincare

When it comes to wrinkle prevention, you’re never too young to start protecting your skin from the rigors of age. There are some tried and true methods to look younger than you actually are. Some are so vital that they merit repeating, while others you may not have heard of before.

Don’t Worship the Sun
Most dermatologists will tell you that staying out of the sun is one of the best things you can do for your skin. When you must be in the sun, wear an appropriate level of sunscreen and reapply regularly. Have you ever seen someone who spends a lot of time in the sun for work or just because they love the bright rays? The skin can take on a wrinkled, leathery appearance if overexposed for a long period of time.
Eye Cream
Anti-aging eye serums can be applied to the corners of eyes to prevent tiny crow’s feet from appearing. Dab on over makeup mid-day for an extra wrinkle-preventing boost. Some women also dab a bit around the mouth area, where laugh lines like to appear. Although the formula is made for sensitive eyes, it is a moisturizer that will also work on other areas.
Remember Your Hands
Hands show the age of a woman, even when her face lacks wrinkles. When applying anti-aging products, remember to put some on the backs of your hands to protect them as well. The skin on hands is thinner than other parts of the body, so give your hands the extra care they deserve.

Finally, don’t be afraid to try new products. Even though your mother and your mother’s mother may have used a particular type of face cream, times change and there are advances in the way products are made that can keep you looking younger longer than the generations that wore skin care products before you.

Organize your Makeup

Posted on Cybil SolynLeave a commentPosted in How To, Makeup

Do you ever get the feeling like your a219188a-7224-4888-ba80-45098f837056bathroom’s getting smaller and you can barely see any counter space amongst all the lipstick, eye shadow and mascara? Well you’re not alone. Here’s some tips to help you organize that mess.

  • Start by going through all of your beauty products and throwing out any old makeup, hair products, sunscreen and lotions that you haven’t used in over a year. Mascara and eye liner (that’s aren’t Jane Iredale!) expire after about six months. Foundation, lipstick and powder expire after a year. year. Take a wiff of all your lipsticks and creams. If they smell like crayon or something rancid then you know for sure they’re bad. But even if they small fine they might be bad. If you, like me, only use Jane Iredale then the powders never go bad, but the creams still have a shelf life of about four years.
  • To help keep your products fresh, sharpen pencils after each use and put a sticker on the bottom of your new products to record the date of purchase so you’ll know when it’s time to toss them.
  • Separate your daily makeup from the rest of your collection and put it in a makeup bag, so it’s ready to grab at your convenience. Place bag in a drawer or on a shelf. Keep makeup in a cool dry place. Showers make steam and steam is hard on makeup. This is why in the olden days women had a makeup vanity outside the bathroom! But you can at least try and keep your product in a closed cabinet or drawer.
  • Depending on your space, you may need counter top or drawer organizers. Acrylic ones are great since you can see through them, but use whatever you want.Once you’ve got the organizing unit that’s right for your space, divvy up your collection and put all your lipstick in one compartment, your shadows in another and your powders in another. Avoid stacking and arrange cosmetics so all your options are visible. Store all your makeup brushes and tools in a cup or cylinder container. If you store your makeup in the bathroom, consider storing your makeup brushes in a mesh bag to keep bristles clean.Now that you have more space come on in and I’ll help you fill it up again. 😉