My Aryana Experience: Diamond Peel and Diode Laser Hair Removal

I've always been very low maintenance when it comes to skin care and makeup. But age is catching up and bare minimum just doesn't cut it anymore. Medyo late in the game na nga ako when it comes to beauty treatments. I've tried some special skin and facial treatments in recent years that did wonders to my age-related skin problems and hair removal needs, but I failed to maintain. 

The good news for me was when Aryana International Aesthetic Center, a beauty and wellness center, opened in my neighborhood a few months ago. I had the opportunity to be treated to a customized program that fit my needs. I highly recommend this to those who also seek safe, effective, yet fuss-free skin care and hair removal treatments like me.

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Benefits of Red Light Collagen Therapy by Suaviss

If you Google what the benefits of collagen are, you will learn that aside from improving the health and appearance of our skin, collagen also helps strengthen hair, nails and teeth, reduces joint pains and degeneration, and even boosts metabolism. Collagen is the main structural protein in the human body that holds our cells together. Basically, it promotes skin elasticity which helps reduce signs of aging. I'm in my 40s now and I really felt the changes on my skin over the past few years. Our body's collagen decreases as we grow older, and we can't escape that fact. This is where Beauty Lab Whitening can help.

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My 3 Things: Cleanse, Care, Conceal

#my3things #bodycare

I am not very particular about body products, but I still want good quality. As long as they are non-drying, delivers their promise, and don't irritate my skin, I'm good with it. Over the years, I've also received so many skin care products as gifts, and I've tried and used most of them. Here are three of the latest that I'm using to cleanse my body, care for sensitive spots, and conceal imperfections.

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Family Friday: Me and My Vanity

Second Friday of the month:  Motherhood / Beauty / Wellness

Me and my vanity.
If I'm going to rate my level of vanity from 1 to 10, I'd say I'm a 6.  I guess I'm really not that vain, and people who know me can attest to that.  But the words rhyme, and they definitely sound better than "Me and My Aging Skin", don't you agree?! =)  Hence, the title.  So, what am I driving at?  I am getting old! Waaahhhh...

This is me, today - lines, pores, blemishes and dark circles in full glory. No make-up, no image filter, no effects nor retouching.  But don't get me wrong -- I am quite pleased with how this shot came out since it's been two weeks after my facial treatments yet no flaking or visible dryness.  Still, I wouldn't dare plaster an enlarged close-up shot of my bare face here.  Half would suffice. :p

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The Spa Reflexology and Purity Facial Treatments

"Introducing one of the newest services of the pioneer in spa industry – The Spa Reflexology. Enjoy the best of both worlds – experience healing and relaxation in your own tranquil sanctuary at The Spa Wellness."

It's hard to refuse an invitation to a spa treat, especially if it's from The Spa. Good thing it was still summer break and I was able to go and indulge in their latest treatments.

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RashFree: More than a Diaper and Rash Cream

Mild eczema, chafed skin, insect bites, and minor cuts -- my family is constantly afflicted by these common skin problems and we apply so many different kinds of balms and topical medications.  I only have myself to blame for being too lazy to learn about and search for a 'do-all' product that we can conveniently use to make these irritating skin conditions go away.

I am thankful for my blog sponsor, Unilab, because I wouldn't have been educated about zinc oxide if not for their latest skin ointment -- RashFree.  

According to MIMS Philippines, "Zinc oxide is a skin protectant.  It acts as a physical barrier that soothes the skin and prevents it from coming into direct contact with external irritants. This protective effect prevents worsening of the condition and promotes the normal healing processes of the skin."

SRP @ PhP150 / 30g tube 

Each gram of ointment contains 200mg zinc oxide. 

RashFree is formulated for the prevention and treatment of diaper rash. It can also be used to promote healing of:

• minor skin irritations
• non-infected wounds
• burns
• abrasions, cuts
• chafed skin
• sunburn
• insect bites

I know it's being sold mainly as a diaper rash cream, but I have no baby bum to apply it on anymore. Nevertheless, we still put it to good use.  My daughter has chronic mild eczema. My boy is never free from mosquito bites. As for me, almost a month ago, I had this circular, reddish, scaly, itchy, dry patch of skin above my knee, the size of a 25 centavo coin.  I ignored it for weeks and did not apply any topical medication until I can't stop scratching anymore. 

(Please excuse the icky shot below)

I applied RashFree thinly on that red patch every night over a week, and the relief was instant.  Gradually, the redness subsided, the scaly skin smoothed out, and more importantly, my scratching stopped.  What a big relief! 

(Again, please excuse my icky dry skin)

Suffice it to say, RashFree works!  It's good to keep a tube in your first aid kit or medicine cabinet as a use-all skin ointment. Available at leading drugstores.

***
Announcement: (this EVENT was CONCLUDED)
Unilab is holding RUN United 2012 this March, so if you are interested to join the race, just click on the poster to view.  To register online, just click my Unilab RunUnited Ad on top of my sidebar to be redirected straight to the registration site.

I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  
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Z-PORE Instant Pore Refiner by GoodSkin Labs

"A lightweight pore-perfector that immediately hides enlarged pores caused by skin aging."- GSL

They got me at 'pores'!
We all have pores -- but some have more enlarged pores than others.  I have lots, and mine are visible around the nose and inner cheek areas from years of stubborn adult pimples and acne in my late 20s.

You can imagine how excited I was when I received the latest product innovation from GoodSkin Labs -- the Z-PORE Instant Pore Refiner cream that came in this 20ml tube. I couldn't wait to try it!

After cleansing and moisturizing:

1. I squeezed a small amount of Z-PORE -- light, powdery-smooth texture
2. It looks like cream foundation in natural color
3. Smoothed over specific areas with visible pores, in downward strokes: on sides of nose, parts of cheeks
4. Blends well and "disappears" on my skin 

Pardon the unsightly (un-retouched) images :)

Before                                                                     After

I immediately saw the effects and the product delivered as promised:

What Z-PORE does:

• Reduces appearance of pores
• Controls oils
• Gives a flawless matte finish
• Reduces shine
• Water, sweat, humidity resistant

It INSTANTLY reduced appearance of my enlarged pores and revealed a velvety smooth, matte finish. I love how it feels on the skin with it's super fine texture. It's so light and sets quickly.  I did not feel the need to put powder over it anymore.  The only thing I did was pat face powder over the rest of my face to even out skin tone and I'm done.  What's amazing about it is that the areas with Z-PORE remained matte and dry the rest of the day.  I was tempted to use it on my whole face the next day but I restrained myself.  :)))

However, I noticed subtle skin flaking on the cheeks where I applied the cream.  I have combination skin but my cheeks tend to be on the dry side, so I guess it made it even drier with is "mattifying" formulation.  I do recommend Z-PORE to those with oily skin as it really does the trick -- shine-free face!  It's also great as a makeup base since it leaves skin smooth and even.

Z-PORE contains silicone polymers, optical diffusers and mica that creates a matte finish once applied. A special mix of conditioning silicone, vitamin E and lauryl lysine powder make it non-drying.  Use with or without makeup.

Please note that Z-PORE does not claim to make pores shrink and disappear, but simply helps reduce appearance for a more flawless-looking skin.

SRP @ Php 1,600 / 20ml tube

“A youthful complexion is often defined by smooth texture and clean, invisible pores. Because
 pores develop in size and visibility with aging, patients in my practice are always looking for products that help conceal them in order to create a polished and refined look that is smooth to the touch. What is great about Z-Pore is that it creates instant pore refinement with a beautiful silky finish for all day wear.” - Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, GoodSkin Labs Global Consulting Dermatologist

Z-PORE is available at selected Watsons Personal Care Stores, Beauty by SM Department Stores and Marionnaud Mall of Asia.

For more information on the GoodSkin Labs, visit: www.goodskinlabs.com

I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
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OBAGI 360 System for Complete Skin Transformation

"Our philosophy provides a total approach to treating and reversing skin conditions, from the most common to the most challenging, by repairing and restoring healthy skin function. Obagi treatment programs, widely praised all over the world for their effectiveness, can be used on all skin types, regardless of age, condition, or skin color." - House of Obagi

Last August 17, I was privileged to be a part of a special bloggers' night hosted by the House of Obagi (HOO).  The prestigious medical skin care center carries Obagi, the number one prescription-strength skin care system in the world. We were introduced to HOO's medical director Dr. Stephen Lacson who presented Obagi 360 -- the complete Obagi system wherein the use of their product line, guided by their in-house dermatologists, will work synergistically to transform and give you 'your best skin ever'.

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Send a GoodNote and WIN A GoodSkin Labs Product

Do you like to pamper your skin?
Do you want the best skincare products for your face?
Yes? :)

Here's your chance to win for yourself any one of the breakthrough skin treatment products from GoodSkin Labs worth up to Php2,800!

GSL produces highly-targeted skincare products with advanced formulas that ensure real and instant benefits, with long term results that are visible and measurable.  I shared my personal experience with GoodSkin Labs (GSL) products previously and I am very happy with the improvements on my skin.  Now, I'm sharing the love by hosting this fun activity.

(THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED -- see Winner below)

HOW TO JOIN:

Choose one, or all, GoodNote templates and download from here > GSL GoodNotes Templates

Deadline of entries:  August 30, 2011 - 11:59 p.m. (Manila time)

Announcement of one (1) winner will be posted within 2 weeks after Aug. 30.

Prize to be picked-up at the GSL office in Makati.

Remember:

• Type My Mom-Friday Entry on the Subject of your email and send to goodskinlabs.ph@gmail.com so it will be counted.
• You can submit up to 5 entries using each of the 5 GoodNote templates available.                         1 template = 1 entry
• You can attach all your entries in one email message and write your full name, age, contact number.

Click here for a step-by-step guide from GSL.

Check out GoodSkin Labs on Facebook and learn about how each product works their magic on your skin!

Create your GoodNotes now

and you might just win your favorite GSL skincare product!

p.s.

Drop me a note here once you've submitted an entry so I can verify with GSL. :)

* * *

And the WINNER is...

Congratulations ETHEL, a representative from GoodSkin Labs will contact you on how to claim the prize of your choice. 
Cheers to healthy, beautiful skin!

My heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined this contest!

I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
Get instant updates:
My Mom-Friday on Facebook
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I try my best to reply and answer any questions you may have on each entry so check back if you've left one. Thank you and do visit again!

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Mom-Finds: Smooth-365 and Filextra by GoodSkin Labs

Last Friday of the month:  Mom-Finds / Raves

I rarely spend on cosmetics. I want quick and simple steps to beautify. I do believe in good basic skin care though.  And since I don't put much make-up on, I really need to have nice, healthy skin.  But don't like to "invest" on a full line or range of products and then follow so many steps for application to get the promised results.


I'm not in my 20s anymore (huhuhu...) and lately, I became more conscious of my skin, especially on my face and neck. Over the years, I've kept a very basic regimen of mild liquid cleanser and facial moisturizer, for day and night.  I don't even put on sunscreen (a crime for skin experts)!

Early this months, I was introduced to GoodSkin Labs. Thanks to the fine ladies from Estee Lauder Company (Phils.), I was able to try their unique products and got to know more about this premium skin solutions brand.

Filextra, Tri-Aktiline, Smooth-365 sampler

GoodSkin Labs was created by BeautyBank, a division of Estee Lauder Co.
What differentiates GSL products?

• produces highly-targeted skincare products with both instant benefits and long term results
• addresses agin skin's unique needs
• advanced formulas that ensure real, visible and measurable results
• products are fragrance-free
• can be used by anyone to boost their anti-aging skincare regimen

I was very vocal about wanting a low maintenance skin care regimen, with less products to use as possible. BeautyBank's marketing executive Rizel Magno explained that the products are targeted on specific "problems" and assured me that there's no need to change or dump my basic skincare products to be able to benefit from GoodSkin Labs skin treatment line.

Ms. Rizel Magno applying Tri-Aktiline to demo it's instant line-reducing effects

In short, GoodSkin Labs products are like anti-aging spot treatments. One-step, no fuss and easy to use. I like that!  While their innovative skincare line works synergistically to improve the overall quality of your skin, you can simply choose one that you really need and incorporate into your existing skincare regimen.

SRP @ PhP 2,000/tube (est. US$46)

SMOOTH-365

A skin perfecting super serum

• has clarity-promoting agents for even, luminous complexion
• latest optical diffusers that counter imperfections, lines, wrinkles
• power peptides that stimulate collagen production to lift away unwanted lines for smoother skin tone and texture

The cream spreads easily and absorbs quickly that leaves skin velvety smooth.

For best results, apply all over face and neck, morning and night before moisturizing.

Even with just the sampler sachet, I was able to see, feel, and measure the results from using it 2x a day, for the past 2 weeks. I applied a small drop and pressed mainly on my cheeks. I like how smooth and light it felt, AND it did clear up my skin and prevented an impending breakout!

SRP @ PhP 2,800/tube (est. UD$65)

FILEXTRA

An all-over moisturizer and Facial Revolumizing Treatment

• Natural Collagen Boosters create more stable skin structure
• has a potent mix of ingredients to restore youthful skin plumpness/volume, counteracting the "mid-face sink" and thin looking skin
• tone correctors and optical diffusers provide instant healthy glow and diminish hallows and sunken facial contours

The rich moisturizer leaves the skin hydrated, with a slightly firm feeling on the skin.

For best results, apply all over face and neck, morning and night.

I used Filextra in tandem with Smooth-365, 2x a day, for the past 2 weeks. I squeezed a pea-sized amount, rubbed between fingers, and pressed all over my face and neck.

I have combination skin so I use this sparingly on my T-zone.  After a few weeks, my face did seem to look healthier, skin is not pale and pasty anymore. It worked well under make-up too!

Despite my (major) hesitation to flash and scare you with my face again, I need to show how the products worked for me.


Please focus on the cheek area.
Days before using the products, I already noticed slight redness (signs of growing pimples) on my left cheek.  I used Smooth-365 & Filextra after shower, and took a risk, not knowing if it will aggravate or improve my skin's condition at that time.  Lo and behold, the morning after, the redness subsided. Great right?

I continued to use and observe since the zits might resurface at any time. To my delight, after 2 weeks of continued use, I am still clear of cheek pimples!

Here's the 'Before and After' shots in a span of 9 days, photographed under very similar lighting conditions, without retouching the face.  (I wished those veins can be erased!)

Sorry, my photo did not capture the pasty texture and bump on my skin (on the left).

       Before:  pimple breakout-in-the-making     After:  pimples did not develop; clearer cheeks

This spot on my cheeks has been a problem for me ever since I started having adult pimples in my mid-20s, and resulted in enlarged pores on that area. From time to time, these annoying tiny red dots will make their appearance, which I just try to ignore and hide under face power. 

In my case, I want to banish fine lines, blemishes, baby zits here and there, improve my pale pasty skin and uneven skin tone.  I'm quite satisfied with GoodSkin Labs' potent products which successfully addressed "problem areas" on my face.


So far, Smooth-365 and Filextra are working well with very visible results, and slowly improving my (aging) skin. I guess I have to get the regular-sized Smooth-365 tube now!

A great afternoon of beauty talk with blogger friends and beauty gurus Rowena and Michelle, (Mom-Friday, center), with Rizel and Krishna from Estee Lauder Co.

GoodSkin Labs skincare products are available at selected Watsons Personal Care Stores, Beauty by SM Department Stores and Marionnaud Mall of Asia.

To learn more about these amazing products, head over to GoodSkin Labs' official website.


I'd love to know your thoughts on this post.  If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
Get instant updates:
My Mom-Friday on Facebook
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I try my best to reply and answer any questions you may have on each entry so check back if you've left one. Thank you and do visit again!

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