I had lunch with a good friend recently and as she ordered her club sandwich, she requested that the bacon be left off of it.  As I glanced her way she sort of sighed and said ‘did you see the W.H.O. report, now bacon can cause cancer!’  

Of course, she was referring to the clarification report that the World Health Organization recently issued stating that there is an increased risk for colorectal cancer from eating processed meat.

Before we all jump to conclusions about this, it is important to understand the data behind the statements.  The W.H.O. has classified meat alongside numerous other products as a ’probably and possible carcinogen’.  It lists bacon alongside cigarettes, alcohol and asbestos.  We know that smoking raises a person’s risk of developing lung cancer by 2,500 percent (so quit smoking NOW!).  Based on the association identified by the W.H.O., two daily strips of bacon would translate to about a 6 percent risk for colon cancer (up from the 5 percent risk for those who aren’t enjoying bacon).  Sadly, the messages that came forward after the W.H.O. announcement made it sound as if bacon is just as bad as cigarettes.  

Another factor that isn’t considered in this report is the overall lifestyle of individuals.  Could it be that the bacon eaters are more likely to be smokers or sedentary – factors that increase your risk of cancer and that the non-meat eaters exercise regularly and eat their vegetables (which helps to protect them)?  How about the genetics of the individual?  We know that genetics can play a role in cancer.  

Although red and processed meats can increase your risk of colon cancer, there is no need to cut these products from your diet entirely.  

Red meat has been identified as all types of mammalian muscle meat (beef, veal, pork, lamb, mutton, horse, and goat).  Processed meat refers to meat that has been transformed through salting, curing, fermentation, smoking or other processes to enhance flavor or improve preservation (hot dogs, sausages and ham are a few examples). Some processed meats contain nitrites, which are potential carcinogens, If you are a big consumer of red and processed meet, an easy step to take is to reduce your intake.  Also, experts recommend an annual screening between the ages of 50 and 75 (or earlier if there is a family history of colorectal cancer).  Your doctor can provide you with guidance on diet and recommended screenings during your annual physical.  

Here are my rules when it comes to meat, based on my understanding of the science

1. I stick to grass fed/vegetarian fed, organic meat. It is obviously more expensive, but I’d rather cut down on other non-essential things in order to afford good meat.
2. I avoid all processed meats that contain nitrites. I look for labels that specifically say NITRATE free.
3. I try to limit red meat overall all. We mostly eat chicken.  I use ground turkey instead of ground beef. If I have bacon, it’s turkey bacon
4. When it comes to eggs and milk, I stick with the same principles – organic, vegetarian fed.
5. I try to eat fish twice a week and only go for wild caught fish. Given the recent oil spills in our waters, I try to find Icelandic fish if I can.

To be honest, this W.H.O. clarification didn’t really alter the way that I eat.  We were already avoiding processed meats – earlier research has supported that these forms of meat aren’t very good for you.  We limit our consumption of red meat and when we do enjoy meat it is organic and we stick to the leaner cuts of meat.  I suggested to my friend that she go ahead and enjoy the bacon on her sandwich.  I know that she lives a relatively healthy lifestyle – a few slices of bacon every so often is not going to have a drastic effect on her overall health.  

What about you?  Would you eat the bacon?  Connect with me on Facebook and share your thoughts!

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Cancer is a really scary thing.  It seems like almost every day I either see a patient being diagnosed or hear of another friend being diagnosed with some form of cancer.  Ongoing research has offered so many advancements in how we diagnose and treat cancer but still, too many people are turning up with too many forms of cancer.  I recently read an article in Harvard Magazine highlighting the hereditary link in certain types of cancers. 

The dermatologist in me reads this article and recalls all of the skin cancers that I have seen in patients.  Skin cancer is highly heritable but with early detection it is usually 100% curable.  If you or a first degree relative have had a history of skin cancer, it is important that all other first degree relatives have regular skin checks by a Board Certified Dermatologist.  Educate your family members on the ABCDE’s of skin cancer and on the importance of using sunscreen on a daily basis.  Protect your children from UV rays with sunscreen and protective clothing. If you do notice something suspicious on your skin, visit a Board Certified Dermatologist as soon as possible.  Early detection is critical! 

Back to the article, the optimist in me reads this and considers the fact that 1/3 of cancers are very heritable, which means that 2/3 are not.  Think about that for a minute.  By reducing exposure to toxic substances and fueling your body with good, clean food, you can actually decrease your likelihood of getting cancer (the non-genetic cancers that is).  Our genes are not our destiny and good, clean food can be our best medicine.  Even in the instance of highly heritable cancers, environmental modifications can help! Take this example – You have two identical twins with a strong family history of melanoma.  One twin is a sun worshiper, smoker, and does not take very good care of himself. The second twin wears sunscreen, avoids the sun, eats well, and exercises plenty. Which twin is more likely to end of up with skin cancer? In my book, it’s genes + environment that usually determines what diseases we get. Science backs up this view point.

In my home, we have taken steps to proactively limit our exposure to everyday carcinogens.  We avoid processed junk food and artificial sweeteners and fuel our bodies with organic foods that are packed with antioxidants which helps to repair damaged cells.  We exercise on a regular basis (obesity has been linked to increase risks of certain types of cancers) and encourage an active lifestyle for our children.  We don’t smoke and consume alcohol only in moderation.  We limit the use of BPA, avoid personal care products that contain certain chemicals like phthalates, sulfates etc and use natural cleaning products.  I could fill pages and pages about how  we are striving to live ‘clean’.  I say strive, because I am practical. I am a working woman, and a mom, and busy just like everyone else. Are we always perfect, no. But, we try our best.

With all of this information, I would like to introduce a new segment that I am planning for my Blog – CLEANhealth.   Look for CLEANhealth blog posts and CLEANtips on my social media channels to highlight how I have created a CLEAN environment for my family.  I know that this CLEAN lifestyle will help to protect us from many forms of cancer and that is something that gives me comfort.

If you have taken an initiative to create a clean environment for your family, I would love to feature you on my blog.  Email me at info@vibrantdermatology.com. 

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A common ingredient in many skin care products is acid.  A common misconception is that something that is ‘acid’ is going to peel or exfoliate your skin.  This isn’t always the case, used correctly, acids can also help with dry skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and acne.  If you are feeling overwhelmed after staring at ingredient labels and need some direction (and product recommendations), read on.  

In my opinion, there are 10 acids that you need to know about.  

1. Retinoc Acid (Retinol) – Derived from Vitamin A, Retinoic acid is well known as an antiaging powerhouse. This acid causes skin cell turnover and provides benefits of increased collagen production, clean pores, accelerated skin cell shedding and evened out skin tone.  Your skin may take a short time to adjust to this acid (skin flaking is completely normal).  Because of this acid’s anti-aging benefits, almost every female dermatologist is on a prescription retinoid. My favorite prescription retinoid is Differin, very effective, with few side effects.
2. Salicylic Acid – If you have acne, this acid is sure to be in your bathroom.  When used to treat acne, the acid will dry up blemishes.  As an antibacterial, the acid will work as an exfoliator to remove discolored and damaged skin cells to improve skin tone.  At high concentrations, sal acid can be used as a chemical peel that can help clear major breakouts in no time. Salicylic acid peels should be performed by your dermatologist. I have acne, so I make sure to do a sal acid peel every 3 months.
3. Glycolic Acid – This is one of the best acids out there, going beyond the top layer of skin to help loosen up the bonds that hold dead skin together.  Glycolic acid will shrink pores, lighten spots, even out scars, lessen wrinkles and keep the texture of your skin smooth and bright.  Gentle enough for beginners with proven anti-aging properties, this would be a great start if you want to incorporate acids into your routine.    If you are new to acids, I would recommend starting at a 5% glycolic acid product. Neostrata has a great glycolic acid wash.
4. Lactic Acid – Gentle and effective, those with sensitive skin will benefit from a product that includes Lactic acid.  It exfoliates and softens lines and wrinkles in a much less irritating way than other acids.  Find it in HydroPeptide Even Out (enter code DOCTOR-IP for preferred pricing).  
5. Mandelic Acid – Another one that works well on sensitive skin, Mandelic acid is great for brightening skin, addressing dark spots, as well as diminishing the signs of aging.  
6. Hyaluronic Acid – This acid is a moisture booster and can add volume when injected.  A key in many moisturizers and fillers, hyaluronic acid is synthetically made to replicate a natural structural component of skin.  When used as a cream or serum, skin will feel softer and you will notice improvement in the appearance of fine lines.  Look for a product that combines this with vitamin C to assist in effective penetration.  
7. Azelaic Acid – If you suffer from redness (especially related to rosacea) and acne, Azelaic acid could benefit you.  This acid is derived from grains and soothes irritated skin.  Azeliac acid is also a power fighter of hyperpigmentation. The great news about this product is that it can be used in pregnancy!! This is my go to product for fighting my acne and melasma (the brown mask of pregnancy that many women get) when I am expecting. Works like a charm and perfectly safe.
8. Ascorbic Acid – This is the synthetic version of Vitamin C and is known to have antioxidant benefits as well as the ability to brighten skin and increase collagen.  You’ll find vitamin C in lots of serums. Just be careful. Some vitamin C serums can lose potency quickly. I keep mine in the fridge to preserve it for as long as possible.
9. Alpha Lipoic Acid – A powerful antioxidant that will help to minimize the look of lines and wrinkles, Alpha Lipoic acid will protect against free radicals and help to prevent damage.  This a newer, more-potent antioxidant that will diminish fine lines and give your skin a healthy glow.  
10. Malic Acid – Another one that is great for sensitive skin, Malic Acid encourages cell turnover when used as an exfoliator.  

Many over the counter products will combine these acids to produce a powerful combination for your skin care needs. You an also find many of these acids combined for effective skin brightening and pore tightening in the Hydropeptide plump and peel kit. This is why this is my go to home peeling kit that I use once a week to make sure that my skin always has a healthy glow.  It is important to find the right balance for your skin type (especially those with sensitive skin).  Any new skin care routine will take time to see results – over time you should notice that your skin is brighter and more evened out.  If your skin becomes red, irritated, itchy and dry you may have overused the acid and should stop the use of the product for a few days (and be sure to keep up with the moisturizer to help soothe any irritation).  

Looking for more skin tips & product recommendations?  Join my Beauty Club & Referral Program! 

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I’ve written before about the link between food and your skin.  Today I am going to focus on acne and why specific types of foods can trigger outbreaks.  Research has shown a trend that certain foods can actually effect your acne.  So before you go out and purchase expensive ‘spot treatments’ and acne fighters, I would encourage you to review your diet to see if any changes might benefit your skin. 

There are three main categories of food that I think about when I consider how a diet can impact acne:  cow’s milk, sugar and high-glycemic foods.

1:  Cow’s Milk – A 2010 study has found an association between cow’s milk and acne, although there are only theories on why this is.  Cow’s milk spikes blood sugar (increasing inflammation which leads to pimples) and increases insulin levels (encouraging the production of skin oils).  Additionally, the added hormones found in cow’s milk can encourage the overgrowth of skin cell’s, which can block pores.  Blocked pores = breakouts.

Suggested diet change: Purchase organic dairy products to avoid added hormones. If you notice a link between your acne and dairy, think about other non-dairy sources of calcium (I like almond milk).  If you choose to drink milk, also be aware that skim milk is actually worse for your acne!! The process used to produce skim milk actually leave more acne causing hormones behind.

2.  Sugar – Similar to milk, a spike in your blood sugar levels is going to lead to increased inflammation, causing pimples.  You need to consider exactly how much sugar you’re eating in a day – and especially concentrate on any time that you are eating a large amount at once.

Suggested diet change: Cut back!  We don’t require sugar in our diets and the more we eat, the more our body craves it.  Try dropping one soda or sugary snack to begin with and keep cutting until it’s all gone.  Try using natural sweeteners (honey, maple syrup) if you really need to sweeten something. 

3.  High-glycemic foods – Foods that break down quickly in the body (think things like white bread, processed cereals, white rice, cakes, pretzels, etc) will trigger an insulin spike and raise blood sugar levels.  These changes will trigger hormonal fluctuations and inflammation which in turn encourage acne.  If you choose low glycemic foods (vegetables, whole grains, etc) instead you are sure to notice a change in your skin.

Suggested diet change:  Same as the sugar, cut back!  Avoid junk food (and fast food) opting instead for clean snacks and meals.  Choose salads with lean protein over a cheeseburger and fries and think about nutritious snacks that will provide you with long-lasting energy (almonds are my go to!). 

Personally, I think altering eating habits should always be the first step towards enjoying clearer skin.  A clean, consistent diet will help to ensure beautiful skin (and definitely won’t hurt your waistline either!).  It will take time to see results from any changes in your diet, but if you don’t see improvements after four to six weeks you should contact a Board Certified Dermatologist for a more detailed analysis of your skin.

Have you personally cleared up your skin with dietary changes?  I would love to hear about it!  Comment below or email me your story at info@vibrantdermatology.com.

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Face lift anti-aging treatment – Asian woman portrait with graphic lines showing facial lifting effect on skin.

Botox® has gained huge press in the past years and for good reason.  Over 11 million people have experienced the benefit of Botox®, a treatment that smooths and rejuvenates your skin and reduces wrinkles that are caused by repeated facial expressions.

Often, women in their 30s and 40s come into the office and ask me if there are creams that can be used to correct the 11’s that have developed between their eyebrows, or the crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes. While certain creams such as prescription retinoids help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, they do not prevent or treat the wrinkles that develop from the dynamic movements of our face. If you are a smiley person like me, you may inevitably developed etched in lines from facial expressions. Neurotoxin or Botox, as it is most commonly called, is the perfect fix for this. Botox allows me to smile as much as I’d like while maintaining a youthful appearance. I started getting Botox a couple years ago, and have never looked back. Most of my patients feel that same way – once you try it, you never go back!!

Of course, there may be a ton of questions that come to mind about whether or not to get neurotoxin. The biggest concern that I hear about is whether or not your face will look “frozen” after the procedure.  In the right hands, the answer is absolutely not! My goal is to make you look refreshed and wrinkle free, while still maintaining natural movement and expression in your face.  It is important that you get your care from a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Remember the goal is to be a renewed you, not a new you.  To find out more about what to expect, read on here….

Initial Consultation

Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip will evaluate your health, discuss your medical history and assess your face.  Your overall goals will be discussed and a recommendation will be based on this information.  It is important that you notify the dermatologist of any medications you are taking as well as of any allergies, skin issues or illnesses.  Botox® is suitable for people of all ages but is not for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.  Botox® informational materials will be provided during this visit and the techniques will be described in detail.  If you have any questions this is an excellent time to ask them.

The Procedure

Botox® procedures generally only take about 20 minutes and are non-surgical so there is no anesthesia required.  The needles used to inject the neurotoxin are very small and thin, and as such, pain is minimal. You will be asked to move certain facial muscles to determine the best points to inject Botox®.  Injections will be made directly into the muscles at several points in the area being treated.  If you are sensitive to pain we can use a topical anesthetic cream to numb the area.

Post Procedure

Patients routinely continue with most normal daily activities after the procedure.  However, I do not recommend that you get a massage right after the procedure, as pressure on the face can displace the product from the original injection site. I also recommend avoiding facials and Clarisonic brushes immediately post procedure. It is ok to resume these activities 24 hours post procedure. Occasionally, there may be some slight discomfort, redness or bruising at the injection site but this should not last more than an hour after treatment.  Results will not be immediate but you can expect to see smoother skin within a few days, and results will last up to 4 months.  Repeat treatments will be required to maintain your youthful appearance and to prevent wrinkles from returning.  Dr. Ip will discuss repeat treatments during your visit.

Cost

The cost of treatment will vary depending on your individual goals and needs.  Costs will be discussed during your initial consultation.  However, the usual range is $300-800 depending on the number of units used. For the average woman, looking to treat her entire forehead I would budget roughly $500.

Visit www.vibrantdermatolgoy.com to schedule an appointment with Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip.  Be sure to join the Beauty Club and Referral Program for a chance to win free Botox®!

For more information about Botox® : http://www.botoxcosmetic.com

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Are you using your skin care products in the best order?  There are SO MANY products out there for smoothing, plumping, minimizing, moisturizing, and more.  It’s tough to figure out exactly what your skin needs, not to mention that each product should be used in an order that will provide the best benefit.

Always start with a gentle cleanse.  In the evening, I suggest using an eye makeup remover and then washing with luke-warm water and a gentle cleanser.  Once your skin is clean you are ready to start applying products.

My general advice for any skin care routine is to start light and work your way up to the heavier products.  Specifically:

• Serum(s) – These tend to be on the lighter side and will be most effective if applied first.  There are a variety of serums on the market that do everything from reduce wrinkles, target dryness, firm & tone, and smooth skin.  Pick a few that target your concerns and use in combination.  I really like the Hydrostem antioxidant serum from Hydropeptide.
• Moisturizer – To really seal in those serums for the maximum benefit, next up is your moisturizer.  Keep this product light so that you don’t start to look too greasy.  Oils can be added on top of your moisturizer if you want an extra boost of radiance (but keep it light!).
• In the morning, be sure to add a light sun-screen on top.  It’s important to have a layer of protection from UV Rays, even if you won’t be outside all day long.
  • A good way to save steps is get a combined moisturizer with sunscreen. I like Cerave am Lotion because it combines a great moisturizer with an SPF 30 sunscreen
• In the evening, add a retinol to your routine.  These help to unclog pores, boost collagen to reduce fine lines, and speed cell turnover to even out discoloration and smooth the skin.  Prescription strength Retinoids are very popular, and this is what I use personally, but there are also some great over-the-counter options.  Strivectin or Olay ProX have good retinol based night creams.

If you have any medication that is applied to the skin, this will always go on first. Be sure to let each product soak in for a minute or two before moving on to the next so that they have adequate time to penetrate.

With consistency and the right mix of products your skin should look great and not feel too greasy.  Experiment with what works best for your skin and be sure to call your dermatologist if you think your products aren’t cutting it.

I love sharing skin tips and beauty advice through my blog and social media.  Be sure to join my Beauty Club for the latest news (and to be entered to win some great products). 

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They say that what you eat is what you are and this is 100 percent true.  I am constantly planning out our family meals to ensure adequate nutrition but the dermatologist in me cannot resist incorporating vitamin-rich food that will leave my skin looking great as well.  Antioxidants that help to prevent age spots, wrinkling, sagging and UV damage are found in a variety of foods.  A few of my favorites include:

Lycopene – Commonly found in red fruits and vegetables (red peppers, watermelon, tomatoes, pink grapefruit), Lycopene has anti-inflammatory powers and is an antioxidant that can neutralize the effect of harmful free radicals which will help minimize wrinkles and lines.

Beta-carotene – Find this in orange vegetables and leafy greens (carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, cantaloupe, spinach, kale, collard greens, and romaine lettuce).  Beta-carotene is a carotenoid which will help delay the effects of sun-induced aging by slowing down the effects of skin breakdown.

Flavonoids – Enjoy your berries, onions, tea (green, black, or white, non-herbal), and dark chocolate, Flavonoids offer a powerful boost to the immune system and provide anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-cancer properties by protecting against oxidative and free radical damage.

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) – We all know that vitamin C is one of the first things you turn to when you have a cold but its antioxidant properties also help protect against UV rays and can help keep skin firm with collagen synthesis.  Look for Vitamin C in oranges, papaya, kiwifruit, strawberries, red peppers, Brussels sprouts, kale, and broccoli.

Vitamin E – Found in nuts, eggs, green leafy vegetables, avocados and whole grains, Vitamin E is one of the most powerful antioxidants, but your body can’t produce it.  Make sure you are getting enough of this valuable antioxidant in your diet to help your skin stay healthier and supple.

At the end of the day, nothing beats a balanced diet!  One quick and easy way to incorporate a lot of great antioxidants is to mix up a smoothie to enjoy with your breakfast.  One of my favorites is below (my kids love it too!).

Berry Protein Smoothie

Serves 2

1 cup of mixed frozen organic berries

1 banana

1 cup of spinach

4 TBSP of ground flaxmeal

2 Scoops of Vega Berry flavored vegan protein powder

2 Cups of Filtered Water

Add everything to your blender and blend until smooth

Want more healthy eating tips & recipes to help you look and feel your best?  Join my Beauty Club and be notified when I have news, skin tips and promotions to share!

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There is one question that I hear all the time in my office :  How can I look younger without having plastic surgery.  ‘Non-evasive’ is a new trend in medical care and in the field of dermatology there are a growing number of options that provide dramatic results without the risks associated with surgery.

Surgical procedures are effective but come with a lot of risk and often require a long recovery time.  Surgical procedures can also sometimes change your image too drastically, leaving you unsatisfied with the results.

My philosophy is to renew you, not make a new you.  Simply put, I aim to refresh and update your features with non-surgical methods.  There are a variety of non-surgical options depending on the area and specific request.  Many of these can be completed during an office visit and require minimal recovery time.  Maintenance is easy with repeated office visits throughout the year.

The first area of options are collagen simulation fillers which are used to restore the volume that is lost as an effect of aging.

RADIESSE® : Best for smoothing moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds (such as nasolabial folds, the creases that extend from the corner of your nose to the corner of your mouth), this is a dermal filler which will plump the skin.  RADIESSE is injected through a small needle and placed under the skin and will work immediately to add volume under the skin.  Over time, the benefits continue by naturally stimulating your body’s own natural collagen.  The results are proven to be immediate and long lasting – shown to last a year or more in many patients.

Juvederm Voluma : A deep injection in the cheek area to correct age-related volume loss, Jevederm offers an instant, natural-looking result that can last up to 2 years.

Sculptra Aesthetic :  Injected into shallow to deep facial wrinkles, this filler is suitable for nasolabial folds, the lines framing your mouth and chin wrinkles. A full treatment of Sculptra Aesthetic (an average of three injections over a few months) can last over two years.

The second options are neuromodulators, which are used to reduce or even eliminate the lines on the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes, by relaxing the muscles responsible for the development of lines and wrinkles.  The muscles will gradually become relaxed allowing the skin to appear smooth and unwrinkled.  Two common neuromodulators are:

Botox : Injected into muscles and used to temporarily improve the look of both moderate to severe crow’s feet lines and frown lines between the eyebrows.  Results will be noticed in 24 to 48 hours and last up to 4 months.

Dysport:  Smooths the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines without changing the look or movement of the rest of your face.  In one 10-20 minute injection, Dysport has been prove to last up to 4 months.

With all of these products, no sedation or anesthesia is required and discomfort is usually minimal.  Your Board Certified Dermatologist will discuss all available treatment options with you to help determine which is most appropriate for your needs.

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Happy New Year!

New Year resolutions always seem to follow a familiar trend around diets, exercise and getting healthy.  I think it is important to build a lifestyle that supports health and wellness (versus just making a big push in January which is hard to sustain long term).  Life doesn’t always make it easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle – kids, work, and family keep me busy – but I 100% stand behind a healthy lifestyle to keep you feeling & looking your best.

A few of my top tips for staying healthy all year long:

1. The 80/20 rule.  I don’t like following strict diets which make me feel like I’m missing out.  The occasional treat or glass of wine is super motivating to me so I approach my diet with an 80/20 rule.  80% of the time I eat a diet that is well balanced and full of nutrition.  That leaves some space for me to indulge on occasion.  A proper diet leaves you well equipped to ward off illness, lose weight and look your best.
2. Eat your veggies.  Every meal, try to fill your plate with as many vegetables as possible.  Vegetables are filled with nutrients, water, fiber, and very few calories – by loading up your plate with vegetables you will fill up faster and cut down on calories without feeling deprived.  I use a variety of herbs and spices to flavor my veggies so that I can cut down on the butter and salt.  My kids look to me as an example so when they see my plate full of veggies, they ask for the same!  If you find it hard to eat a plateful of vegetables try adding them into yummy things like smoothies (I do this every morning), soups, and stews. I also love grilling and roasting vegetables, which makes them much sweeter. My kids love broccoli florets that I drizzle with a good dose of extra virgin oil, season with herbs, and pop in the toaster oven for 15 minutes.
3. Find an exercise program that you enjoy and find motivating.  Personally, I need the input of a personal trainer to help me target specific areas and safely change my exercise routines.  I don’t always have a ton of free time to get to the gym so I have a variety of at home DVD’s that I do – a few of my favorites include BeachBody 21 Day Fix and Moms into Fitness by Lidnsay Brin, and P90X.  I find if I take 30 minutes to sweat it out my day is much calmer and I feel so much more energized.
4. Pick one day during the week and pamper yourself.  It doesn’t have to be an all day event – even just one hour to exfoliate, moisturize and paint your nails.  On Sunday evenings once the kids are in bed I like to light a few candles, play some quiet music and pamper myself.  This leaves me relaxed and ready to tackle the week ahead.
5. Stay on top of your medical care.  Now is a great time to organize your medical providers and schedule any appointments that you will need during the year.  Don’t forget about your annual skin check with a dermatologist. Early detection is so important – if you see something suspicious call right away to rule out skin cancer.
6. Lastly, I share one of my new resolutions for 2016: take 10 minutes of the day to meditate.  Between motherhood, work, and marriage, I find that there is also something to be thinking about or planning for. My goal for this year is to try to be more present in the moment. There are many known benefits meditation including stress relief and improved immunity. I will keep you posted on how I do with this new resolution!!

Start slow with any lifestyle changes to make them easy to maintain – jumping right in 100% is sure to cause burn out quick.  Pick one area and focus on that for a month before picking up another area.

As my yogi friends say – Namaste! Happy New year.

Visit my website, join the Beauty Club and be entered to win a great at home chemical peel this month! 

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