It’s travel time again for me!

Last week, I spent a few days in New York City, and in the next few months I will be flying to Chicago, Las Vegas, California and just added to my itenerary…. Nebraska!! While visiting each of these cities, I’ll try my best to seek out unique attractions and dining experiences to share with you.

First stop: New York City

Last week, I attended the International Esthetics Conference at the Jacob Javits Center where businesses showcased the lastest in skin care technology. The Esthetics Show attracted thousands of skin care professionals and business owners looking to gain new knowledge on skin care services and innovative technology to boost business and sales.

After three days of walking the show aisles and collecting information, I narrowed down my favorite findings to share with you!

PURE INVENTIONS: White Tea & Blueberry

Beautify your skin from the inside with Pure Invention’s tea extracts. This little bottle fits perfectly into my purse and provides 60 servings of anti-oxidants (White Tea, Blueberry & Elderberry Extract).

If you missed my post on the recent weight loss and health benefits linked to White tea then click here to read more.

A recent study published in the journal of Nutrition and Metabolism revealed exciting results regarding white tea and weight loss. White tea showed to “inhibit adipogenesis and stimulate lipolysis-activity”, meaning that it stops the development of fat cells leading to a decrease in fat storage.

LING’S Moisture Plenish (Cell repare)

This hydrating serum was formulated by the 50 year old Asian Beauty Queen and celebrity facialist LING Chan. From Hong Kong to New York, LING has transformed many faces and lives. Not only does she continue to produce amazing products, but also donates to charities worldwide. I love LING! Read more on her inspiring story by clicking here.

Oh! A drop of this Hyaluronic infused serum is the perfect moisture boost before applying your moisturizer. Love it!!!

BODI PURE: BODY POLISH

This next product is manufactured and sold by a lovable husband and wife team. Yin Yoo and his wife have created a great line of body line products targeted to spas and nail salons. My favorite product of theirs is the “Body Polish”, a blend of hydrating baking soda particles that exfoliate my skin while infusing a moisture to my skin. I always feel baby smooth and soft after every bath. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

MEG 21 BRIGHT & FIRM Eye Treatment

This silky soothing eye treatment was unexpectedly discovered through diabetes research at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. MEG 21 contains a patented ingredient called Supplamine that targets the harmful effects caused by Glycation (when sugar binds with proteins and leads to inflammation, wrinkles, sagging and more).

This little cute jar lasts me around two months and helps give my eye area an energizing boost, reducing puffiness and dark circles while adding moisture.

CIRCADIA’s PHERADORE

I’ve read and watched so many educational programs on the role of pheromones and attracting the opposite sex. Pheromones are also responsible for feeling calm and cool, something I’m all about. This next product was created by skin expert Dr. Pugliese of Circadia. PherAdore is a yling-ylang scented roll on scent that contains four genetically engineered pheramones that should be applied twice a day on areas like the upper lip, around your nose, neck or even the wrists. The gentle scent can easily be combined with your favorite fragrance.

Whether this product truly works, I still love the ying-ylang smell. Roll it on, and instantly feel attractive

Like I mentioned earlier, I have a few stops in the next few months and I’ll do my best to seek out new findings for you. If you stumble upon any interesting products, please feel free to leave a comment and share with the rest of us skin junkies.

xoxo

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 Nowadays, Skin care professionals can offer many options for achieving firmer, younger looking skin from laser skin resurfacing, Intense Pulse light Treatments to chemical peels.

Working in the skin care industry, I make it a point to keep up to date with all the new technologies, products and procedures. I attended a trade show a few months back and noticed a booth that was attracting a lot of traffic. A few radiant Asian women were offering free treatments using a gold roller. I was curious to see what they were doing, so I joined the crowd to get my education on. Apparently, the treatment being performed was already popular among the Asians and was gaining more attention from all women seeking a youthful appearance without going under the knife.  

Skin needling or PCI (Percutaneous Collagen Induction) is a beauty procedure that involves pricking the skin with fine needles as deep as 1-3 mm. The treatment is performed using a needle roller that is applied to the area that needs work.

What are the benefits?  Skin needling is a great treatment for individuals who seek firm skin, less wrinkles and scarring and an overall improvement in skin tone and texture.

How does it work? It’s a known fact that skin damage whether it’s a burn or scratch leads to skin remodeling.  By pricking the skin, the skin is forced to remodel and regenerate new skin cells in turn leading to more youthful glowing skin.

Who should get this done? If you’re looking for minimal pain, an inexpensive anti-wrinkle procedure and quick recovery then skin needling is a good option. This treatment is great for skin tightening of the neck, arms, abs, thighs, breasts, butt, wrinkles and reducing visible scars.

Advantages? Not as damaging as other treatments, increases collagen and elastin synthesis, great for all skin types and skin tones, easily mastered and topical anesthetics are an option.

What are the negative side effects? Similar to tattooing, skin needling involves exposure to blood and if not treated properly then infection may occur. You will need a few needling treatments to compare to the results of laser resurfacing. Because skin needling is not easily patented, not many studies have been done on the procedure. Good news is that many well known doctors have been incorporating skin needling in their practice and testify positive results!

A few companies have perfected a Do-it-Yourself Derma Roller that you can purchase for as low as $50. They claim that they are easy to use and inflict little to no blood.

Would I try it? Sure! I would actually love to purchase and at home roller and try it on my stretch marks. Apparently, it really helps rebuild the collagen in old scarring.

If you’ve tried skin needling, I would love to hear your thoughts and if you would suggest it for me.

Love,

Ghada

It’s not a surprise that most Americans over exceed their daily recommended value of sugar or anything else for that matter.

 

 

We all know that excess sugar could lead to weight gain and health problems, but did you know that it can also create havoc to the skin?

 

Working for a Diabetes Research company, my current job requires me to be knowledgeable on the harmful effects of sugar so that I can better assist my skin care clients.

 

In the Skin Care world, sugar’s reaction in the skin is also known as GLYCATION. Glycation has been gaining more attention in the last few years from skin care and health care professionals.

 

What is Glycation?Glycation occurs when sugars — not just refined sugar, but anything that turns into glucose in your body — are eaten and the glucose hits your bloodstream. These sugars latch on to proteins and through this “binding” or “cross-linking” mechanism between sugar and protein, your skin ultimately becomes stiff and brittle. Much of this results from large molecules generated from the glycation process which are called Advanced Glycation End products, appropriately abbreviated as AGEs.

 

The more sugar you eat, the more AGEs you produce. As they multiply, these molecules wreck havoc with adjacent proteins including collagen and elastin which keep our skin firm and elastic.

 

The result is sagging, wrinkled skin.

 

Glycation is inevitable and there is no way around it! Unless you eat lettuce all day but that may lead to death because our body needs glucose to function properly.

 

Not only can you produce Glycated proteins in the body and skin, but also through cooking foods. When foods are cooked by mixing sugars and proteins together, you produce Glycated proteins that are  become even more reactive in the body.

 

 

For example: Pancakes include eggs, sugar and milk (proteins and sugars). So pancakes will be more reactive to the body than eggs alone. Another example is sausage if it contains sugar or meats cooked in a sweet BBQ sauce. Eating lean meats such as turkey and boiled chicken may be better options.

 

Another harmful reactive sugar to the skin is High Fructose Corn Syrup that is used in almost everything including Ketchup, Cereals, fruit juice and more. If you haven’t read the previous article on the harmful effects of HFC, scroll down and take a peek. You’ll be surprised to what you find.

 

So starting today, you should re-evaluate the sugars in your diet. By reducing your sugar intake and choosing healthier sugar sources, you will be steps closer to targeting the harmful effects of Glycation and achieving radiant skin.

 

Hi Smallworld beauties,

 

A few blogs back, I listed some of my “can’t live without” skin, hair & body products.

Here are my “can’t live without” beauty & make up essentials.

 

 

 

# 1 I “can’t live without” my BABY WIPES

I really love baby wipes. I never leave my house without a travel pack of baby wipes. I love a little scent to mine.

 

They are great at removing make up at the end of the night before deep cleaning my face. If I go out to dinner, it’s a great way to clean my hands until I get to the ladies room. Baby wipes are also great to wipe your pickachoo so you can stay fresh all day. You never know!

 

 

# 2 I “can’t live without” my COVERGIRL Hydrating Foundation

I have tried so many foundations and its always hard finding something that compliments my skin tone, and does accentuate ever flaw and pore on my face. I have been using COVERGIRL’S hydrating foundation for over a year now and I always get compliments on how flawless my skin looks.

 

Trust me, my skin is not flawless. It’s all in the makeup application. I actually learned how to apply foundation from my mom. She used to apply it like a moisturizer. Dab here and here, then even it out like a moisturizer. Hmm.. how smart! So I have stolen her technique and I never have any blotching, or definite jaw line. This foundation is very light yet dewy. It gives me the J Lo Glow. 

 

 

# 3 I “can’t live without” my Sally Hansen SKIN BRIGHTNER

You know how it is. You walk into CVS and somehow you end up with a basket full of cosmetics when you arrive at the cash register. You may get to use them a few times before they are replaced by another group of products at your next CVS visit.  

This one was one of those products that ended up in my basket, and won its way on my beauty shelf.

Sally Hansen SKIN BRIGHTNER is tinted sheer moisturizer. I love wearing this to the gym because it gives me a tiny bit of color without anyone noticing. I also like to mix this with my COVERGIRL hydrating foundation, to create a more radiant glow with a hint of bronze.

 

# 4 I “can’t live without” my SW MINERAL MAKEUP

After my foundation is applied, I like to go back and conceal my blemishes and dark circles.  I love using mineral makeup to do so. Mineral make up contains light reflecting ingredients that can trick the eye. I have created my own Mineral Makeup line so I don’t have to spend a fortune on “powder”. Apply just a little here and there, and watch how you can transform your flaws into perfection. Email me if you are interested in purchasing some SW Mineral Makeup.

 

# 5 I “can’t live without” my MAKEUP BRUSHES

A must have for any Smallworld Beauty, is a great set of make up brushes. My brushes come in different sizes to serve different purposes.

I have my powder brush, blush brush, angled eye shadow brush, thin lip brush to line my lips and an eye brow defining brush.

I love my brushes because they make me feel creative whenever I apply my make up. I am an artist for those 10 minutes.

 

 

# 6 I “can’t live without” BLACK RADIANCE BRONZER

Even though Black Radiance is a great line created for the woman of color, their hues and products are beautiful!

Black Radiance has this bronzer that can compliment any tanned complexion. I think I might really cry if they discontinued this one.

This compact has four shades to create a natural sun-kissed bronze, and contains the perfect amount of shimmer to reflect any texture flaws.

 

# 7 I “can’t live without” my CG’s LASH BLAST.

Mascara is a great in creating long seductive lashes. I’m always down to try new products, but Drew Barrimore’s cute face worked in reeling me in to try the new CoverGirl LASH BLAST.  It delivers what it claims; Full, Luscious Lashes! Who doesn’t crave that?

Eyes are the window to the soul, so make them gorgeous!

 

 

# 8 I “can’t live without” my AIR Stocking

Having a gorgeous made up face is great, but I also like to make sure my legs and body look good too.

 

My legs are far from perfect. Due to genetics, weight gain and sport injuries, my legs are really not that cute.  

 

I have accepted that, so I choose to conceal and accentuate them when I want to wear a beautiful dress. AIR Stocking is an airbrush like foundation that easily covers any imperfection. Spray it on, blend a little and watch how your legs scream sexy. Try a little of the Black Radiance Bronzer on top to add a little shimmer if you’re heading out to a lounge with some friends.

 

Now it’s your turn to share your “can’t live without” favorites with us!

  

Love,

Ghada.

 

I have had my share of experience in the hair and beauty industry, so I have learned to ignore genius marketing strategies and purchase items that I truly love and that work best for me.

 

The products that I have featured in this article are just a few of my “can’t live without” items. I understand that everyone’s preference is different so I expect that some may or may not love my choices. At the end of this article, I would love for you to send me a list of your favorite day to day products. I am always up for testing new things!

 

# 1 I “can’t live without” ACNE FREE

I have suffered from acne all my life and tried everything from Differin Gel, ProActive to Birth Control pills. And the winner by a long shot is: ACNE FREE!

Ladies, I truly love this product. I noticed an improvement in my overall skin condition in only a few days. The only negative about this product, is that I have to continuously apply it daily or I’ll produce more oil and break out again. I’m oily, acne prone so I have to deal with it. And ACNE FREE has really made it simple for me to control my skin.

 

You can purchase Acne Free at any drug store (CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens etc).

The kit will run you $19.99 and lasts a month or two. Acne Free also offers a GIANT cleanser that I like to use in conjunction with my body wash.

 

 

# 2 I “can’t live without” MEG 21Advanced Formula

You’ve heard that sugar is bad for you, but have you heard that it is also horrible for your skin? Sugar’s harmful effects include inflammation, loss of collagen, cross-linking of elastin and collagen, free radicals and so much more.

 

My #2 favorite product is MEG 21! This amazing moisturizer contains a patented active ingredient called Supplamine that works to fight sugar’s harmful effects leading to great skin.

So let me tell you a personal testimonial about MEG 21.

 

First of all, I was offered a job by Dynamis, the makers of MEG 21 a few years back. I promised myself that I would never sell a product that I did not 100% believe in. before committing to the position, I requested if I could test the cream and read more about it. I fell in love with the Dynamis Story.

 

MEG 21 was unexpectedly discovered through Diabetes Research and helped target sugar in the skin. I was hesitant to use the cream since I had oily, acne prone pizza face skin and anything would cause it to break out.

 

From the first application, I fell in love with MEG 21. This product felt so soft and creamy, ultra hydrating, and soothing. My face did not break out at all, but instead it felt calm.

I have been using MEG 21 for over 2 years now and I swear by it. My skin has never glowed like this. The texture of my skin is smooth and radiant.

Ladies! This product is amazing under make up! Everyone thinks I have beautiful skin.. and I really don’t. You can ask my mom. 

If you’re looking to improve moisture, firmness and overall skin tone and texture, I suggest giving this product a try.

MEG 21 is distributed through aestheticians, plastic surgeons and dermatologists. Log on to www.DynamisSKinScience.com and find the closest seller near you.

 

 

# 3 I “can’t live without” St. Ives Apricot Scrub

Exfoliation is very important to me. Even though the skin naturally sheds every 25 days or so, a gentle scrub can assist with getting  any excess dead skin off. Exfoliation will also help better penetrate any other skin care products in to the skin so you can maximize the benefits.

I love St. Ives Apricot Scrub because it has a gentle grittiness to it and smells great. This scrub is very affordable and lasts me a few months since I only use it a few times a week. Over exfoliation can lead to more sensitive and irritated skin.

 

 

# 4 I “can’t live without” QUEEN HELENE, MINT JULEP MASQUE

Part of my weekly skin care regimen is Queen Helene’s Mint Julep Masque.

I like to apply a clay mask to help clean my skin from trapped dirt and toxins. The clay mask attaches itself to dirt in your pores so that you can easily wash them off. The mask also helps with shrinking pores. Queen Helene’s Mint Julep Masque is so cheap and efficient. It feels so cool and tingly on application and lasts me almost a year since I only need a little bit once a week.

 

 

# 5 I “can’t live without” LING RICE & WALNUTS IMPERIAL SCRUB

I like to take care of my entire body not just my face. My favorite body scrub is Ling Skin Care’s Imperial Body Scrub.

 

The perfect blend of rice, walnuts, and honey, Ling’s Imperial Scrub smells delicious! It really tastes sweet too. You can purchase the scrub at Ling Skin Care in New York or just order online. www.lingskincare.com Check out their handmade soaps too. They carry blends of black charcoal, jasmine and lemon grass soaps. Tell them Ghada sent you!

 

# 5 I “can’t live without” PALMER’S COCOA BUTTER

As I mentioned in the About me article, I also suffer from stretch marks all over so I like to treat my skin with nature’s cocoa butter. I love Palmer’s but any brand should be fine.

Cocoa butter is so thick and moisturizing, great for post showers. I like to apply it to damp skin so it will penetrate better and I won’t have to use as much.

Recent research indicates that massaging the skin with cocoa butter may help relieve stress, boost the immune system, and even prevent cancer.

 

# 6 I “can’t live without” HERBAL ESSENCES Hair Care

 

During my college years, I worked at a beauty salon that sold high end hair care lines such as Matrix, Nexxus and Back to Basics so I’ve had my experience in sampling many shampoos, conditioners and treatments. More and more companies are replicating the famous brands to offer it at a cheaper price.

Herbal Essences has done just that. I love this line especially the “color me happy” set, since I color and hi-lite my hair every 6-8 weeks. When I feel good about my looks, I project more confidence and energy. I love life more and my hair smells great! OMG! Just kidding, I really don’t talk like that.

  

 

# 7 I “can’t live without” BIOSILK HAIR SERUM

After a great shampoo, I have to prep my hair for a sleek blow dry. My hair tends to lean more towards the frizzy curly way. If I don’t apply a frizz control, forget about it. I look like the angry frizzy haired girls in the shampoo commercials.

 

Farouk System’s Biosilk is an unbelievably smoothing serum for any hair type. Other hair serums and shines can turn my hair greasy if I accidentally apply too much. Biosilk doesn’t seem to do that. I’m not too crazy about their shampoos, but the Silk Therapy always has a space on my beauty shelf. Try this serum as a body oil. It really feels like silk.

 

What are some of your “can’t live without” beauty products! I would love to see what’s on your beauty shelf.

 

Coming Soon… Part 2 where I share my favorite make up findings!