Today’s edition of “Your Questions Answered” is different than week past. Today’s issue is a summary of all the questions that have been addressed in past blog postings. It will be stored as a category in the right hand side of your screen under the topic “Your Questions Answered – 2007 Summary” so you can access it at any time. I would highly suggest that you print this document OR save it as a Word document so you can reference it when your clients have questions.
I continue to get so many requests about being able to search past blog postings. While the software that operates the blog does not have a search function, I did create some sub-categories under the heading “Categories” on the right hand menu of the log on screen. You can now search previous postings under the topics of:
o Business Topics
o Color Cosmetics – Tips and Techniques
o New Product Introductions
o Skin Care Issues
o Weekly Posts
o Your Questions Answered
o Your Questions Answered – 2007 Summary
This should help you locate past editions more easily to help you have the information you need easily at your fingertips.
Between the questions that are addressed in the blog and the questions that are posted on BeautiNet in the FAQ section of the “Product Center”, you have direct access to our most frequently asked questions.
Remember, if you have specific questions, be sure to email me at product@beauticontrol.com.
Have a great week
General Questions
My products arrived today and were sitting on my front porch in freezing conditions. I noticed that some of them were frozen. Does this affect the products quality?
Our products can freeze if left out in extreme temperatures. All of our products go through a rigorous testing protocol which includes multiple “freeze/thaw” tests to ensure that they are still effective. While there could be some minor separation when the product thaws, it can typically be stirred or shaken to resolve this issue. As always, if you feel that a product has been permanently damaged by freezing, you should contact the consultant care center and request a product replacement.
Why are products discontinued?
This is a question that I have asked of me every day. I know this can be an emotional issue for many. It is for me as well. Remember, each of these products was created by my team, so I am very connected with each one of them. It is disappointing when a product does not meet our required sales minimums to keep them in the line. We fully realize that every product is someone’s favorite product.
There are two types of products that we create:
o Those that are INTENDED to be limited, but may be made permanent if sales demand is high
o Those that are created to be included in our permanent product line-up
Most of the time, when items are discontinued it is due to the fact that it has been replaced by new technology which has made it redundant or obsolete. There are, however, times that a product must be discontinued for the simple fact that we do not sell enough to meet our required sales minimums.
Let me give you an example:
o The average order minimum for a component (tube, bottle, etc.) is 25,000 pieces. This means that when we place an order for a bottle or a tube, the least amount that we can purchase is 25,000 pieces.
o Our MINIMUM tank capacity is 1,000 kilos of product. Just to put that into perspective, in order to run a batch, we must make a MINIMUM of 35,270 ounces of product. 32,270 ounces of product would make:
o 35,270 jars of Tight Fix, Tight Eyed or Skin Lightening Complex
o 20,748 bottles of Regeneration
o A GREAT product will sell on average of 30,000 to 50,000 units a month. A GOOD selling product will sell on average of 7,000 to 10,000 units a month. Anything that sells less than 1,000 units a month gets put on “probation” and we must take a hard look at whether or not we can afford to keep this product in the line based on the above facts.
As you can see from this example, a product that sells 1,000 units a month would take 25 months JUST to use up the bottles that we had to purchase for that product, not to mention the amount of product that we had to make and fill into those bottles.
Our business runs just like your business but on a larger scale. When our shelves are full of old products, it makes it difficult to make room for the new “stuff” that keeps the business current in the market.
I hope this gives you a good insight into our processes and limitations so you can better understand why we are forced to discontinue items from time to time.
Have we considered a Baby Care Line?
Actually, we have considered and did the initial development work for a line of baby products. When it came time to bring the product to the market, we made the decision to shelve the products. Our expertise is anti-aging skin care and color cosmetics. We do not have a reputation for baby care products. When you combine the low sales volume and the high cost of safety testing on infants, the retail price-point would never be something that is competitive in today’s marketplace. For the time being, we will leave this market to the giants who currently own the baby care categories and play in the arenas that we are most well known for.
What is the difference between our foot products? Which is best for whom?
Save Your Sole: This is our most intensive line for treating extremely dry, rough and calloused foot conditions.
Save Your Sole - Rich Sea Salve
Key Ingredients
• Glycerin – attracts and holds moisture onto the skin
• Canola oil - Canola is an annual plant that bears large yellow cross-shaped flowers. Rapeseed, the canola variety of origin, comes from either Africa or Southern Europe. Canola oil contains about 20% linoleic acid which, when used externally, plays an important role in the regulation and restructure of the skin.
• Shea Butter - Shea butter is native to tropical Africa and is mainly renowned for its butter. Shea butter is most noted for its softening, anti-drying, and protective elements. Rich in cinnamic acid, shea butter protects from UV rays. It is also considered a regenerative and helps as an anti-aging agent.
• Paraffin wax – a wax to seal in moisture
• Tocopheryl Acetate – Vitamin E - It can help heal acne, promote wound healing and prevent scarring from eczema or psoriasis. Topical vitamin E moisturizes the skin from within, reduces UV induced damage, helps to protect against ozone damage and decreases erythema (redness of the skin) after sun exposure. This makes it appropriate for use in sun care products including lip balms.
• Panthenol – Vitamin B5 – deeply moisturizes and promotes healing
• Aloe leaf – he aloe vera plant, a member of the Lily family, is a succulent that closely resembles a cactus. Aloe vera is highly effective in healing various skin disorders including cancers, ulcers, lesions and general wounds. It is a well-known burn remedy and is currently used in trauma centers throughout the states. Research has shown that aloe vera oil penetrates human skin almost four times faster than water. Because of it's ability to penetrate so quickly, it is highly effective in moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, shaving gels etc. When combined with other healing agents, aloe vera helps those substances penetrate the skin easily carrying them to the deeper layers of the skin. Aloe is believed to have an anti-aging effect on skin and acts as an anti-inflammatory pain-reliever. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in the treatment of acne and other dermatological problems. Aloe vera can reduce the irritating effects that radiation has on the skin has also been found to accelerate tissue repair and normal cell growth.
• Sodium Hyaluronate – Component of skin tissue that is used in skin-care products as a good water-binding agent
• Papaya extract – Enzymes that feed on dead, impacted skin cells to chemically exfoliate the skin, improving texture and appearance while aiding the skin’s ability to absorb moisture.
• Mango extract - Enzymes that feed on dead, impacted skin cells to chemically exfoliate the skin, improving texture and appearance while aiding the skin’s ability to absorb moisture.
Save Your Sole - Ebb and Flow Foot Softening Spray
Key Ingredients:
• Castor Oil - Vegetable oil derived from the castor bean. It is used in cosmetics as an emollient, though its unique property is that when dry it forms a solid film that can have water-binding properties. It is rarely associated with skin irritation or allergic reactions but it can have a slightly sticky feel on skin.
• Sodium Hyaluronate - Component of skin tissue that is used in skin-care products as a good water-binding agent
• Papaya extract – Enzymes that feed on dead, impacted skin cells to chemically exfoliate the skin, improving texture and appearance while aiding the skin’s ability to absorb moisture.
• Mango extract - Enzymes that feed on dead, impacted skin cells to chemically exfoliate the skin, improving texture and appearance while aiding the skin’s ability to absorb moisture.
• Salicylic Acid - Referred to as beta hydroxy acid (BHA), it is a multifunctional ingredient that addresses many of the systemic causes of blemishes (Source: Seminars in Dermatology, December 1990, pages 305–308). For decades dermatologists have been prescribing salicylic acid as an exceedingly effective keratolytic (exfoliant), but it also is an anti-irritant This is because salicylic acid is a derivative of aspirin (both are salicylates—aspirin’s technical name is acetyl salicylic acid), and so it also functions as an anti-inflammatory. In addition, BHA has the ability to penetrate into the pore (AHAs do not), and thus can exfoliate inside the pore as well on the surface of the skin; that makes it effective for reducing blemishes, including blackheads and whiteheads
Save Your Sole - Foot and Leg Scrub
Key Ingredients:
• Sea Sand – a natural and abrasive exfoliant that “polishes” the skin of dead skin cells and compacted skin
• Potassium Silicoaluminate – a mineral that is activated by water and friction to create a topical warming experience
Save Your Sole - Warming Seas Shaving Lotion
Key Ingredients:
• Potassium Silicoaluminate – a mineral that is activated by water and friction to create a topical warming experience
• Aloe leaf – he aloe vera plant, a member of the Lily family, is a succulent that closely resembles a cactus. Aloe vera is highly effective in healing various skin disorders including cancers, ulcers, lesions and general wounds. It is a well-known burn remedy and is currently used in trauma centers throughout the states. Research has shown that aloe vera oil penetrates human skin almost four times faster than water. Because of it's ability to penetrate so quickly, it is highly effective in moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, shaving gels etc. When combined with other healing agents, aloe vera helps those substances penetrate the skin easily carrying them to the deeper layers of the skin. Aloe is believed to have an anti-aging effect on skin and acts as an anti-inflammatory pain-reliever. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in the treatment of acne and other dermatological problems. Aloe vera can reduce the irritating effects that radiation has on the skin has also been found to accelerate tissue repair and normal cell growth.
• Carthamus tinctorius seed oil – Safflower – rich natural oil that provides hydration and lubrication.
Margarita Foot Products: This line is recommended for someone who is looking for cooling foot products that are prone to swelling and discomfort.
Frozen Margarita Frozen Foot Cream
Key Ingredients:
• Glycerin - acts and holds moisture onto the skin
• Carthamus tinctorius seed oil – Safflower – rich natural oil that provides hydration and lubrication.
• EMU Oil - emu oil has become an important component of the Australian economy. As a result there is research from that part of the world showing it to be a good emollient that can help heal skin. Furthermore it appears that Emu oil in comparison to mineral oil has better moisturizing properties, superior texture, and lower incidence of comedogenicity. There have been a number of studies that support EMU oil’s ability to aid in joint stiffness and discomfort.
• Menthyl Lactate – to cool and freshen the feet, encouraging increased circulation
• Aloe leaf – he aloe vera plant, a member of the Lily family, is a succulent that closely resembles a cactus. Aloe vera is highly effective in healing various skin disorders including cancers, ulcers, lesions and general wounds. It is a well-known burn remedy and is currently used in trauma centers throughout the states. Research has shown that aloe vera oil penetrates human skin almost four times faster than water. Because of it's ability to penetrate so quickly, it is highly effective in moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, shaving gels etc. When combined with other healing agents, aloe vera helps those substances penetrate the skin easily carrying them to the deeper layers of the skin. Aloe is believed to have an anti-aging effect on skin and acts as an anti-inflammatory pain-reliever. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in the treatment of acne and other dermatological problems. Aloe vera can reduce the irritating effects that radiation has on the skin has also been found to accelerate tissue repair and normal cell growth.
Salty Margarita Foot Scrub
Key Ingredients:
• Potassium Silicoaluminate – a mineral that is activated by water and friction to create a topical warming experience
• Aloe leaf – he aloe vera plant, a member of the Lily family, is a succulent that closely resembles a cactus. Aloe vera is highly effective in healing various skin disorders including cancers, ulcers, lesions and general wounds. It is a well-known burn remedy and is currently used in trauma centers throughout the states. Research has shown that aloe vera oil penetrates human skin almost four times faster than water. Because of it's ability to penetrate so quickly, it is highly effective in moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, shaving gels etc. When combined with other healing agents, aloe vera helps those substances penetrate the skin easily carrying them to the deeper layers of the skin. Aloe is believed to have an anti-aging effect on skin and acts as an anti-inflammatory pain-reliever. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in the treatment of acne and other dermatological problems. Aloe vera can reduce the irritating effects that radiation has on the skin has also been found to accelerate tissue repair and normal cell growth.
• Safflower Oil – rich natural oil that provides hydration and lubrication.
• Green Tea Extract – Significant amounts of research have established that tea, including black, green, and white tea, delivers many intriguing health benefits. Dozens of studies point to tea's potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory as well as anticarcinogenic properties.
• Ginseng Extract – From a family of herbs (Araliaceae) native to Asia. A small number of studies carried out on animals have shown that ginseng may have antitumor and anticancer properties. Incorporated to help increase the skin’s energy and circulation
• Ginko Biloba – Tree with leaves having components that are effective as an anti-inflammatory and an aid in collagen production; ginkgo also has antioxidant properties
• Kola Extract and Gotu Kola – a source caffeine to help rid the feet of excess fluid retention wihich can cause decreased circulation and swelling.
• EMU Oil - emu oil has become an important component of the Australian economy. As a result there is research from that part of the world showing it to be a good emollient that can help heal skin. Furthermore it appears that Emu oil in comparison to mineral oil has better moisturizing properties, superior texture, and lower incidence of comedogenicity. There have been a number of studies that support EMU oil’s ability to aid in joint stiffness and discomfort.
Herbal Serenity Foot Cream: This is a general use foot cream that cools the feet and offers moderately intensive moisturizing properties.
Key Ingredients:
• Avocado Oil – Although it is classed as a vegetable oil, the avocado is really a fruit since it has a stone - but none-the-less it yields a rich and extremely deep penetrating oil, rich in vitamins A, D and E, lecithin, as well as potassium - known as the youth mineral.
• Canola Oil – Canola is an annual plant that bears large yellow cross-shaped flowers. Rapeseed, the canola variety of origin, comes from either Africa or Southern Europe. Canola oil contains about 20% linoleic acid which, when used externally, plays an important role in the regulation and restructure of the skin.
• Safflower Oil – rich natural oil that provides hydration and lubrication.
• Soy Protein – Potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent for skin
• Macadamia Seed Oil – This oil comes from the pressed nuts of the Macadamia tree. It is nourishing to the skin and has proven itself to be one of the best regenerative oils available. It is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, and closely resembles sebum (the oil naturally produced by ones skin to help protect it). Macadamia oil is a protective oil with a high absorption rate.
• Glycerin – attracts and holds moisture onto the skin
• Lactic Acid – an alpha hydroxy acid known to help remove dead skin cells that contribute to calloused skin
• Tocopheryl Nicotinate - Vitamin E - It can help heal acne, promote wound healing and prevent scarring from eczema or psoriasis. Topical vitamin E moisturizes the skin from within, reduces UV induced damage, helps to protect against ozone damage and decreases erythema (redness of the skin) after sun exposure. This makes it appropriate for use in sun care products including lip balms.
• Menthol - to cool and freshen the feet, encouraging increased circulation
What is your favorite product/products and why?
This is a tough one. Remember, I have been here for 15+ years, so I definitely have become attached to some of the products. These products are like my children, I love them all, but I definitely have my favorites. Here is the list of products that I keep ample stock of at home (these are in no particular order):
• Skinlogics Platinum Plus (my new favorite skin care system) – I have dry skin, with years of sun damage to makeup for, so this system is a LIFE SAVER as far as I am concerned.
• All Clear Skin Solution – since I am always trying new products, my skin is prone to temperamental breakouts. The use of this product, as needed, can take care of skin problems as they arise.
• Time to Go and Time to Go Time Capsules - This is a product that I can see a huge difference when I don’t use for a few days. These products work from the inside-out to expedite the production of new, healthier skin cells.
• Platinum Eye Patches – I use these at least every other morning to refresh my eyes, offer a quick “lift” to immediately erase lines and wrinkles for 24 hours.
• Platinum Regeneration Eye Cream – Regardless of my age, I will always go for the richest eye cream available. I smile with my eyes, so this is the first place that shows my age. This product keeps the eyes ultra moisturized and there is nothing better for dark circles.
• Platinum Regeneration face and neck cream – For the same reasons I use the Skinlogics Platinum Plus products, I use this product. I have some catching up to do!!
• Microdermabrasion – Bar none, there is no better physical exfoliating product on the market! I use this 3 times per week.
• Regeneration Reprogram – This product protects from UV damage unlike a sunscreen. Where a sunscreen works from the outside – in, this product works at the lower layers of the skin to protect the newly emerging skin cells from the deeper penetrating UV rays that cause the actual signs of aging.
• Spa Organic Enzyme Mask – I use this for 5 to 10 minutes before each Microdermabrasion treatment. The enzymes will dissolve the dead skin, allowing the Microdermabrasion to work deeper and more effectively.
• Therma Del Sol Detoxifying Bath Soak – I’m not sure what I did before this product. If I am feeling under the weather, or just stressed, there is nothing like this product to help restore my energy and detoxify the system.
Have the ingredients on the neck wraps changed? They smell different
No, the ingredients in the neck wraps have not changed. Remember, these are natural ingredients. The delicate nuances of the odors will vary from batch to batch and from harvest to harvest. It would be unusual that they would not vary in odor with each shipment.
What products attract male consumers?
When offering products to men, I have personally had great success with products that have a high sensory experience that offer immediate results. Such products would include:
o Show of Hands Instant Manicure - for rough, outdoor hands. This product also works GREAT to break down hard to clean compounds that get on the hands and under the nails such as grease, oil, dirt, etc.
o Save Your Sole Foot Salve – every man loves this one
o Therma Del Sol Detoxifying Bath Soak and Luxuries of the Sea Instant Comfort Gel – this is great for those of us who are weekend warriors and still think we are 18, but our bodies disagree.
o Protective Services or Corticure Comfort lotion – to help with razor burn and mild skin irritations
o Hand and Nail Therapy Cream – to help treat man hands.
o Luxuries of the Sea Salt Glow – this is a heavy duty skin scrub and men seem to love it.
o A recent favorite of many men is the Spa Escapes Peppermint Pulse-point Lotion – I have a neighbor that swears by it to help his stress and headaches.
o Microdermabrasion – The results are immediate and men are fascinated by mechanics, so I think this one appeals to guys who like gadgets.
o Skinlogics SPF Lip Balm stick – A must have for any man!
What can be used to prevent stretch marks?
During pregnancy, the skin is prone to stretch marks. One way to help prevent this condition is to keep the skin highly lubricated to help maintain the hydrated and conditioned. We have had great testimonials from clients who have used the Therma Del Sol Olive Body Butter during pregnancy with great results. For stretch marks that have already developed, we have Demarkable, which is great for helping to improve the appearance of the skin and treating discoloration from stretch marks and scarring.
What products should be avoided during pregnancy?
I know that I have addressed this topic in the past, but I continue to get bombarded with this question.
During pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid any product that contains a high % of Retinol. Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A and is found in Regeneration Time to Go products. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is stored in the body rather for an extended period of time. Excessive levels of Vitamin A in the body has been linked to certain forms of birth defects. It is best to visit with a physician regarding vitamin A in both topical and ingestible forms.
Different physicians have differing opinions on this issue. It is best to consult your physician when you become pregnant and discuss what products you are using.
There is so much information available on BeautiNet, can you please give me a brief explanation of the product related tools that are available so I can have instant access to product information?
For those of you who use BeautiNet, I am sure you have noticed that many changes and improvements have been made over the past year to help give you immediate answers and resources to help you learn more about our amazing products. You will see even further improvements in 2008 as our teams work to incorporate the latest technology into our system development.
There is so much information that is available to you on BeautiNet that you may not have seen or been aware of. Let me give you a quick run-down of all the product related services that you can use to maximize your learning and get the answers that you need as it relates to our products.
When you log on to BeautiNet, you will see four sections that are related to products. At the top of the menu you will see “Product Center” and “Forms on File”. At the left hand side of the page you will see “Product Information Center” and “Consultant Guide”. All four of these areas are full of resources that will help you with your business.
Product Center:
The Product Center is the area of BeautiNet where you can access the following information:
• Product Profiles on new product introductions, best sellers and recent product introductions
• Online Product Training which features web presentations with my voice-over that walks you through the necessary training for the following areas:
o BeautiControl’s Product Philosophy and what sets us apart from the competition
o Skin Care Maintenance training and product descriptions
o Skin Care Repair training and product descriptions
o Skin Care Prevention training and product descriptions
o Beauti by BeautiControl training for our color cosmetic category, featuring product information and application techniques
• Access to Gary’s Blog
• Access to the Product Information Center
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section that answers the majority of our most commonly asked questions. This section should help provide you with the majority of the answers that you are seeking regarding general questions about our product, ingredients, packaging, etc.
• Advanced product training workshops on some of our key products and skin care categories
• A visual tour inside the BeautiControl Research Institute and manufacturing facility
Forms on File:
After clicking on the “Forms on File” tab, you will see a wide variety of topics emerge. For product related information, you will click on “Product Information/Client Fliers”. In this section you will find:
• Product fliers for both Consultants and Clients
• Skin care regimen brochures
• Problem/Solution charts
• A Gluten Information chart
• Foundation comparison charts
• Skin layer chart
• And many more items that you can download to file or offer to your clients
Product Information Center:
This is a section of BeautiNet that I use every single day. In this area you will find:
• A one page “profile” for each of the products that we have in the line, featuring product highlights, how to use and ingredient information.
• An ingredient search function that allows you to type in an ingredient to pull a listing of all products that contain that particular ingredient. So, if you want to know what products contain ingredients derived from nuts, simply type “nut” into the ingredient search. This is such a valuable tool and can become a tremendous resource for you when you are dealing with clients who are looking for, or looking to avoid certain ingredients.
Consultant Guide:
The Consultant Guide is the “bible” for the BeautiControl business. IT is updated twice a year and available for you to view and/or print in the event that you need information regarding the company, policies and procedures, products, services, etc.
Coming soon, we will be adding an ingredient glossary in the Consultant Guide so you can print out a full listing of all of our products and ingredients should the need arise.
And don’t forget, the Achiever is now available online. This is so cool!!!
Our goal is to make this business as simple as possible. If you haven’t navigated around BeautiNet, I would encourage you to familiarize yourself with all the valuable information that is available. The information I covered is just the product related information…there’s a lot more information available that will help you with all your business needs.
Skin Care Questions
What is the correct order of application for the new Skinlogics Platinum Plus products? What order do I use the other products in my regimen?
The Platinum Plus line is just like any other skin care system with one exception…there is no need for Cell Block C PM .
The regimen would be as follows:
AM Regimen
• Nourishing Crème Cleanser
• Skinlogics Scrub/Microdermabrasion (AM OR PM)
• Relaxing Tonic
• Platinum Regeneration face and neck serum
• Cell Block C
• Brightening Day Cream
• Platinum Regeneration Eye Cream
PM Regimen
• Nourishing Crème Cleanser
• Relaxing Tonic
• Regeneration Reprogram
• Regeneration Time to Go with Retinol
• Regeneration Time to Go Eye Capsules
• Renewing Night Cream
• Platinum Regeneration Eye Cream
Please clarify, if I am using the Platinum Plus Night Cream, do I still need to use Cell Block C PM?
I continue to receive questions regarding the new Skinlogics Platinum Plus Renewing Night Cream and Cell Block C PM. While you could choose to use both the Cell Block C PM and the Skinlogics Platinum Plus night cream together, there is really no need. Choose one or the other to complete your nighttime skin care regimen. For 50+ skin, or for those who experience more dryness, I would recommend that you choose the Skinlogics Platinum Plus Night Cream.
I use the Skinlogics Platinum Plus products and love them. I do, however, have trouble extracting the cleanser from the tube. Is anything being done to help correct this problem?
This is a very valid concern. After the launch of this product, it was quickly identified that the Skinlogics Platinum Plus Cleanser is more difficult to extract from the tube than other products. Choosing the right packaging for a formula is always tricky. I have had many people ask if we could move this product into a jar or a bottle/pump to allow the product to be dispensed more easily. This type of product is really best suited for a tube because of the thick consistency. We do not like to put cleansers in a jar as we do not want to infuse water from the shower into the product which could lead to the harboring and development of bacteria. Similarly, the product is too thick to put into a bottle/pump. So, we have increase the size of the orifice of the tube/cap which will allow the product to be dispensed more easily. Remember, any change takes a bit of time to implement, however, on our next production of tubes, we will increase the size of the orifice which will solve this concern for clients who have experienced this problem.
We are always listening to your suggestions and feedback, so please know that we listen to you and value your constructive feedback regarding our packaging and formulas as we always strive to satisfy our Consultants and your clients.
I have been using the Time to Go Time Capsules every night and have noticed that I am getting an irritation around my eyes. Is this normal?
As I mentioned above, Time to Go contains retinol, a Vitamin A derivative that is stored in the body for an extended time. Retinol is an aggressive anti-aging ingredient and works by helping to kick start the production of new skin cells, increasing the rate that the skin renews itself. We recommend that when you start using either the Time to Go or the Time to Go Time Capsules, that you use it every other day to determine skin tolerance. Using it every day may start to cause redness and irritation for some people after a few days of consecutive use. After using every other day for 2 to 4 weeks, you can increase your frequency of use if you are not experiencing irritation.
Be sure to have your clients read the product inserts included in each of these products so they understand how to use the product correctly to avoid irritation.
Why does my skin turn red after using a clay based mask such as the Therma Del Sol Detoxifying Body Facial, the Luxuries of the Seas Fango/Seaweed Mask or the All Clear sulfur mask? Is this normal?
Each of these masks are formulated with 2 different types of clay – kaolin and montmorillonite. The purpose of clay in a mask is to stimulate circulation as well as help draw oil and toxins from the skin. The nature of this action will cause the skin to appear somewhat red, or flushed for a period of time after use. This is not a concern unless the redness is also accompanied by irritation. If irritation occurs, it is not recommended that you use this product. Clay based masks are NOT intended for those with dry and/or sensitive skin types. They are best recommended for those who have more normal or more oily skin conditions. For those who do not experience irritation, the redness should subside within one hour.
The All Clear Sulfur Mask is somewhat of a different animal. While it does contain clay to help absorb oil and toxins, it also contains 4% of sulfur and benzoyl peroxide to help destroy bacteria and dry acne blemishes. Due to the aggressive nature of all of the active ingredients, this product may cause redness and drying for anyone who uses the product. If it does, you can adjust the time left on the skin to customize it to you individual needs.
There are so many choices of masks in our product line, how do I know which one will be best for me?
We have several mask choices to offer a variety of choices for a variety of different concerns. Not every person will want to use every one of these products as they are really designed for varied purposes. Below is a description of each of the masks as well as their intended use:
• Therma Del Sol Detoxifying Body Facial – This is a clay based mask, intended to absorb oil and toxins from the skin. Best for normal to oily skin conditions, or for mild to moderate acne.
• Luxuries of the Seas Fango/Seaweed Mask – this is a clay based mask which is supplemented with pumice stone particles. The mask will absorb oil and toxins from the skin as it dries. Once dry, wet with water, then scrub the mask to remove, exfoliating the skin’s surface layers. Best for normal to oily skin conditions.
• Warming Trend Green Tea Mask – This is a moisturizing mask containing the ingredient potassium silicoaluminate, a water activated ingredient that warms the skin as the product is applied, helping to breakdown cellular debris and opening the pores to accept more moisture. Good for all skin types.
• Spa Enzyme Mask – This is one of my all time favorite products. This is a face or body mask that is formulated with enzymes. Enzymes feed on dead skin. The enzymes used in this formula are high potency enzymes derived for papaya and pineapple. When applied as a mask, the enzyme will eat away dead skin cells, helping to clear the skin of hard to remove debris. I love to use this product right before doing a Microdermabrasion treatment to remove the upper-most skin cells, allowing the physical exfoliation of the Microdermabrasion crystals work more deeply and effectively. Because this is an “active” product, some redness will occur, but should subside within an hour. Good for all skin types.
• All Clear Sulfur Mask - contain clay to help absorb oil and toxins, it also contains 4% of sulfur and benzoyl peroxide to help destroy bacteria and dry acne blemishes. Due to the aggressive nature of all of the active ingredients, this product may cause redness and drying for anyone who uses the product. If it does, you can adjust the time left on the skin to customize it to you individual needs. Good for acne prone skin conditions.
• All Clear Deep Cleansing Treatment – Think of this product as a self cleansing facial mask. This is a very unique product that is formulated with .5% salicylic acid. Apply to the skin and allow the product to create a foam over a period of a minute or two. The product will penetrate into the hair follicle and the self foaming action will cleanse the pores and follicles of debris. Best for oily or acne prone skin conditions.
Can you please explain how to use the new Platinum Plus products? Does the Renewing Night Crème take the place of Cell Block C PM?
1. It is recommended to start with the Nourishing Crème Cleanser. This cleanser can be used in the shower as a rinse off cleanser, or at the sink, applied to dampened skin then removed with a moist cloth.
2. Next, apply the Relaxing Tonic with a tissue or cotton pad to provide a final rinse while laying down age specific ingredients that treat the skin and help it maintain the essential moisture mantle.
3. In the daytime, apply your Regeneration Platinum, Cell Block C and any other products that you may include in your daytime regimen. Follow with the Brightening Day Cream as your moisturizer.
4. At night, apply your Time to Go, Reprogram and any other products that you may include in your nighttime regimen. Follow with the Renewing Night Cream. There is no need to use the Cell Block C PM with this line. The Renewing Night Cream will provide the essential age specific nutrients and antioxidants that you need to help your skin renew its moisture levels while you sleep.
When would you recommend the Platinum Plus to a younger age group?
I would certainly recommend the Skinlogics Platinum Plus line for anyone over the age of 50 or those under the age of 50 that might suffer from extremely dry skin conditions. Unless you have very dry skin, or do not have the more advanced signs of aging, you will likely not see the dramatic benefits as someone who really needs such advanced treatments.
What products would you recommend for Asian skin?
Can you please let us know more about Asian skin. I have a soon to be recruit and I need to know more about their skin. The 18 year old daughter said she has really thin skin on her face and wonders about MDA and Chemical Peel. She is also starting to get "raccoon eyes!" Her mom has permanent red around her nose. She also has what looks like age spots on her cheeks, but that is from having her babies- Skin Lightening Complex?
Asian skin is prone to excessive freckling, hyper-pigmentation and uneven skin tone. Dark patches around the eyes, caused by hormonal fluctuations, are also a serious problem for Asian women. This means that proper sun protection is essential, since this condition is worsened by UV exposure. Besides constant use of Cell Block C AM, there are a few products that should be used to help with hyper-pigmentation concerns:
o Regeneration Time to Go – as part of a PM regimen
o Microdermabrasion, used 2 to 3 times per week to help diminish the appearance of skin discolorations
o Skin Lightening Complex on the areas of discoloration to help bleach the discoloration
o Platinum Regeneration Advanced Eye Repair Cream to offer long-term help with chronic darkness around the eyes
o Platinum Regeneration Rejuvenating Eye Treatment Patches for immediate, yet dramatic results.
Asian skin tends to be more sensitive, and prone to breakouts so careful attention needs to be offered to help find the most gentle and effective MRP regimen for these clients. Skin Equations, Platinum Regeneration and Cell Block C should be gentle enough for even your most sensitive of clients.
Asian skin tends to have larger pores, which can impart the appearance of uneven tone and texture. A twice weekly application of the Therma Del Sol Detoxifying body facial will help to clear the pores of unwanted debris that can cause blackheads and make the pores appear larger than they are.
What do I do for sagging or loss of firmness above my lid area?
• A good rule of thumb is this…the area from your brow to the crease of your eye is still part of your face….use the same products on that area of the face as you would on other parts. Your Regeneration face and neck serums and eye creams, as well as your Cell Block C products contain ingredients called “peptides”. Peptides are designed to penetrate to the lower levels of the epidermis to help improve elasticity, this improving the resiliency of the skin. Another great product for this are is your Sculptique facial contour cream. This product contains peptides, as well as other ingredients to help improve the tone of the skin.
• Here is a key point. One of the key reasons that we experience loss of firmness and crepey skin in this area, besides genetics, is sun exposure. Years of sun exposure on this typically unprotected, yet delicate skin, can cause it to age more rapidly than other part of the face or body. Always make sure you are using your Cell Block C AM to help protect this delicate skin from both UV and oxidative damage.
What do I use to help relax the expression lines and help soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles?
• This is a category of products that has gained much attention since the discovery of Botox as an age defying skin treatment. Several years ago, physicians discovered that by injecting minute amounts of a poison into the wrinkles that you could numb the muscles of select areas on the face to relax the appearance of lines and wrinkles for several months at a time. This is GREAT if you don’t mind that somewhat frozen look that your skin gets after treatment. Listen, I never say never…..don’t think I haven’t considered this one!! In the meantime, we developed the best cosmetic alternative to this expensive, painful and questionably dangerous procedure – Platinum Regeneration Line Reversal Cream. This product helps to cosmetically relax the lines and wrinkles to offer visible results for up to 24 hours. This is a great treatment around the eyes, to soften the appearance of “crow’s feet”, those horrible little vertical lines we get between our eyebrows called “the 11’s”, or the brow area.
What do I use to help immediately plump and fill lines and wrinkles?
• This is another category of products that has gained much attention in the past few years. Another popular procedure inspired by vanity is the injection of an ingredient called Restylane into the lines and wrinkles to immediately plump the skin, eliminating its visible appearance. Restylane is an alternative to collagen injections that were made popular in the 80’s. Restylane is comprised of hyaluronic acid, a natural moisturizer that is produced by our own bodies. This ingredient has also been used as injections into joints in hopes to avoid joint replacement procedures. Again, to avoid this painful and costly procedure, we have perfected the cosmetic application of hyaluronic acid with Platinum Regeneration Line Arrest. This product delivers these deeply penetrating ingredients into the wrinkle to temporarily plump the lines and wrinkles around the eyes, between the brows or anywhere else on the face.
• Another product that has shown superior results for immediately plumping and toning the skin around the eyes are is the Platinum Regeneration Rejuvenating Eye Treatment Patches. These are little miracle workers and will offer temporary results in excess of 24 hours.
What can I use to immediately firm and tighten the skin around the eyes?
• There are two products that serve this purpose:
o Platinum Regeneration Eye Patches, like I said earlier, are amazing! I literally use these every morning while I am answering emails prior to work. They have made a huge difference in the youthful appearance of my eyes.
o Anther product that offers temporary cosmetic benefits for tightening the skin around the eyes is Tight Eyed. This product contains a polymer that shrinks as it dries to tighten the appearance of the skin prior to makeup application. While this will not have the same depth of penetration as the Platinum eye patches, this is a great product to use under makeup to prime and perfect the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
My gold toner loses its color, what is the problem?
The pink colorant that is used in this product is a natural colorant that is UV/light sensitive. If exposed to sunlight, the product can start to lose its color over time. This does not affect the efficacy of the formula and should be no reason to return the product.
If the Platinum Plus line is fragrance free, then what am I smelling in the products?
It is important to note that there is not an added fragrance in this line. The smell that you notice is the natural ingredients which we call our Floranutritive complex. This is a natural blend of oils that are known to help treat post-menopausal skin conditions.
Can you please explain how to use the new Platinum Plus products? Does the Renewing Night Crème take the place of Cell Block C PM?
1. It is recommended to start with the Nourishing Crème Cleanser. This cleanser can be used in the shower as a rinse off cleanser, or at the sink, applied to dampened skin then removed with a moist cloth.
2. Next, apply the Relaxing Tonic with a tissue or cotton pad to provide a final rinse while laying down age specific ingredients that treat the skin and help it maintain the essential moisture mantle.
3. In the daytime, apply your Regeneration Platinum, Cell Block C and any other products that you may include in your daytime regimen. Follow with the Brightening Day Cream as your moisturizer.
4. At night, apply your Time to Go, Reprogram and any other products that you may include in your nighttime regimen. Follow with the Renewing Night Cream. There is no need to use the Cell Block C PM with this line. The Renewing Night Cream will provide the essential age specific nutrients and antioxidants that you need to help your skin renew its moisture levels while you sleep.
What can I recommend for my clients who have a breakout or skin irritation from a recommended regimen?
• First, assess the “breakout” to determine if it is a rash, acne breakouts or mila (small white bumps that never come to a head)
o A rash will manifest itself typically within the first 48 hours of use. Look for small, clustered blister like bumps that are typically red and irritated
o Acne breakouts are pimples that occur sporadically and often come to a head
o Milia is a condition caused by using a product that is too rich for your skin or by using too much of a leave-on product. Milia never comes to a head and can develop after using the products for several weeks or months
• If it is a rash, then stop using the products and try to identify the source of the irritation. Often, this can be done through a process of elimination. Use Skin Equations Protective Services to help calm the irritation and allow it to calm before attempting to start the regimen again. Begin introducing products to the regimen one at a time to determine the cause of irritation.
• If it is an acne breakout, please note that this is not uncommon during the first 30 to 45 days after changing a regimen. If the acne continues beyond this time period, use the guidelines mentioned below for problematic or occasional acne breakouts
• If it is milia, begin by using less of all the products that you are currently using…a little goes a long way. If the milia continues, adjust your leave-on products to a line that is less emollient for your skin.
• To treat with cosmetics, see the recommendations below for treating a blackhead. Milia that has been in the skin for an extended period of time may require professional extraction. If topical cosmetic treatments fail to clear the pore, it may be necessary to consult a dermatologist or an esthetician to have the milia extracted.
What can I recommend for my clients who have occasional breakouts – meaning only during particular times of the month or one or two a week?
• Recommend the Skinlogics line for them
• If this does not successfully treat the sporadic acne breakouts, substitute the All Clear tonic for the Skinlogics tonic.
• All Clear Self Foaming Cleansing Treatment and All Clear Blemish gel or Outta Sight used during periods of breakouts will help to shorten the life-span of the blemish.
AM Regimen
• Skinlogics Cleanser
• Skinlogics Scrub (AM or PM, 3 times per week)
• Skinlogics Tonic (or All Clear Skin Solution if breakouts are more frequent and severe)
• Skinlogics Moisturizer
• All Clear Blemish Gel or Outta Site used as a spot treatment to help shorten the life of the breakout.
PM Regimen
• Therma Del Sol Detoxifying Body Facial (to absorb excessive oil and toxins from the skin – 2 to 3 times per week)
• Skinlogics Cleanser
• Skinlogics Scrub (AM or PM, 3 times per week)
• Skinlogics Tonic (or All Clear Skin Solution if breakouts are more frequent and severe)
• Regeneration Time to Go with retinol
• Skinlogics Moisturizer
• All Clear Blemish Gel, Blemish Block or Outta Site used as a spot treatment to help shorten the life of the breakout.
What can I recommend for my clients who have problematic acne breakouts – meaning constant, frequent and numerous breakouts?
• Recommend the All Clear line of products.
• If they become dry and their skin starts to peel or become red, substitute the Skinlogics moisturizer for the All Clear moisturizer. The benzoyl peroxide in the All Clear Moisturizer might be too drying for their skin.
• Consider adding the All Clear sulfur mask as a 2 to 3 times a week treatment (frequency of use may vary from perso to person…this product can be somewhat drying at first)
AM Regimen:
• All Clear Sulfur Mask (applied prior to cleansing 2 to 3 times per week. Can be drying and irritating so start with a shorter duration on the skin to determine skin tolerance. If this product is too drying, substitute for the Therma Del Sol Detoxifying Body Facial.)
• All Clear Cleanser
• All Clear Scrub (unless suffering from chronic cystic acne. If the acne is red and inflamed, it is not recommended to use a scrub at all. Wash the skin with a wash cloth for topical exfoliation).
• All Clear Skin Solution (2% salicylic acid)
• All Clear Moisturizer (Formulated with 1.5% benzoyl peroxide. if dryness or irritation occurs, substitute for or alternate use of the Skinlogics moisturizer)
• All Clear Blemish Gel, Blemish Block or Outta Site used as a spot treatment to help shorten the life of the breakout.
PM Regimen:
• All Clear Self-Foaming Cleansing Treatment (used instead of cleanser 3 to 4 times per week)
• All Clear Scrub (unless suffering from chronic cystic acne. If the acne is red and inflamed, it is not recommended to use a scrub at all. Wash the skin with a wash cloth for topical exfoliation).
• All Clear Skin Solution
• Regeneration Time to Go with retinol
• All Clear Moisturizer (Formulated with 1.5% benzoyl peroxide. If dryness or irritation occurs, substitute for or alternate use of the Skinlogics moisturizer)
• All Clear Blemish Gel, Blemish Block or Outta Site used as a spot treatment to help shorten the life of the breakout.
What are the differences in the All Clear specialty products? How do I know which one to recommend?
• All Clear Self Foaming Cleansing Treatment – Think of this product as a self cleansing facial mask. This is a very unique product that is formulated with .5% salicylic acid. Apply to the skin and allow the product to create a foam over a period of a minute or two. The product will penetrate into the hair follicle and the self foaming action will cleanse the pores and follicles of debris.
• All Clear Sulfur Mask – This product contains multifunctional benefits that can be very helpful for treating even the most stubborn acne problems. Formulated with 4% sulfur and 3% benzoyl peroxide, this clay based product absorbs oils and toxins, destroys bacteria and helps to dry the acne blemish. Because it can be very aggressive and drying, it is important to start with a shorter duration on the skin in order to determine skin tolerance. Begin with a 2 minute treatment, extending to 10 minutes over a period of time.
• All Clear Blemish Duo (Blemish Gel/Blemish Cover-up) – This product contains a Blemish Gel on one end and a Blemish Cover up on the other. The Blemish Gel contains 2% of salicylic acid to help discourage bacteria, expedite exfoliation and calm the inflammation.
• All Clear Blemish Block – This is a very unique product designed for nighttime use. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid, this product is designed to create a clear, flexible “second skin” over the blemish while you sleep to provide the optimal environment for skin healing. Think of this product as a medicated liquid bandage.
• All Clear Outta Sight – This is a very aggressive spot treatment. This treatment is formulated with 2.6% benzoyl peroxide to help discourage bacteria as well as dry the existing blemish.
How long can I tell my clients it will be before they see results from the All Clear products?
The skin will take a minimum of 30 days to recycle, so you cannot really anticipate breakouts to stop before this cycle has completed itself. Acne that you see today did not happen overnight. Acne that you see today has been in development for as long as 30 days and has just now come to the surface. 2 to 3 months is a very realistic amount of time to expect to see dramatic skin improvements.
I feel like I have exhausted my options cosmetically, how do I know when it is time to refer my client to a Dermatologist?
Unfortunately, there will be times when the condition of acne that you are dealing with is more than can be treated with a cosmetic product. This does not mean that the products that you are recommending are not good, it simply means that your client requires more aggressive treatments. After you have tried the above recommendations for 3 to 4 months, and do not see signs of improvement, then it is time for medical intervention. A physician may recommend topical and/or ingestible antibiotics as well as medications that can help regulate hormones (birth control). Regardless of what your physician may recommend as a treatment for the acne, this will not be a replacement for good skin care. Skin Equations, for sensitive skin, or the basic Skinlogics line are both able to be used during medical treatments. I would not recommend All Clear as it is very aggressive on its own and should not be combined with prescribed treatments.
Tips:
• Keep the regimen simple. It is best to find a basic regimen of products that treat the acne condition before adding other products to complicate the equation. Find success with a maintenance program before adding repair and prevention products.
• Understand the causes of acne and the available treatments for acne, this will help you provide topical solutions to address the problems that you are experiencing
• Be patient. There is no magic potion for ridding acne from the skin. Every person will respond to treatment differently than the next person. Listen to your skin, and find the combination of products and ingredients that work best for you.
I have been using the Time to Go Time Capsules every night and have noticed that I am getting an irritation around my eyes. Is this normal?
Time to Go contains retinol, a Vitamin A derivative that is stored in the body for an extended time. Retinol is an aggressive anti-aging ingredient and works by helping to kick start the production of new skin cells, increasing the rate that the skin renews itself. We recommend that when you start using either the Time to Go or the Time to Go Time Capsules, that you use it every other day to determine skin tolerance. Using it every day may start to cause redness and irritation for some people after a few days of consecutive use. After using every other day for 2 to 4 weeks, you can increase your frequency of use if you are not experiencing irritation.
Be sure to have your clients read the product inserts included in each of these products so they understand how to use the product correctly to avoid irritation.
The instructions for Microdermabrasion facial buffing cream say not to use Regeneration products 48 hours before and 48 hour afterwards. Is this really necessary?
All of our usage recommendations are assuming that everyone has sensitive skin. This is a precautionary warning to prevent your clients from over-using a product that could potentially cause any sensitivity. After you have used the product, you will know how your skin responds. I can tell you that for the majority of consumers, there will not be a sensitivity to this product and they can use Regeneration products immediately before and after the use of Microdermabrasion. If you should experience any mild irritation, simply increase the time in between the use of your repair products to determine what frequency of application is most appropriate for your individual skin needs.
I use the Platinum Regeneration and noticed that the newer ones that I have opened have been a yellow/peach color instead of white and smells different. What’s wrong?
I get this one a lot, too. Last December, we reformulated the Platinum Regeneration face and neck serum. At that time, we dramatically improved the formulation, replaced the alpha hydroxy acids with the more advanced polyhydroxy acids, removed any added fragrance and modified the color from white to peach. There is nothing wrong with the product that you have. If you have not yet had the chance to learn about this amazing advancement in the category of age defying skin repair treatments, I encourage you to log onto Beautinet and check out my video called “Regeneration Presentation”, located in the Product Center. This informative workshop with walk you through the benefits of our repair products as well as help you understand the advancements that were made with the exciting Platinum Regeneration formula.
What can I do to help with enlarged pores?
There is really no way to make the pores smaller. You can, however, keep the pores cleaned on a regular basis which will help the skin’s pores to become more refined with time. Pore size is typically part of the skin’s genetic makeup. Think of them as small pockets. When the pockets are empty, they appear less noticeable. The trick is to use products that both take the debris out of the pockets and those that keep the pocket openings cleared so the debris can be easily removed. The longer the pockets are empty, the less noticeable they will appear.
Here are some things that will help:
• Use the All Clear Deep Cleansing Treatment 3 times weekly to deep cleanse the pores of debris
• Use a mud based mask to absorb the debris in the pores
• Daily use of Regeneration repair products will help refine the skin
• MicrodermAbrasion buffing cream and Regeneration repair products will help to keep dead surface cells cleared and increase the skin renewal process.
• Tight Fix will help to firm and refine the appearance of the pore during the day
• Secret Agent natural makeup primer will help to fill in the pores to prevent makeup from making the pores more apparent
Skin Disorder Questions
I have Celiac disease and want to avoid products that contain gluten. What is gluten and how do I find out what products contain gluten?
Celiac disease is a digestive disease that damages the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food. People who have celiac disease cannot tolerate a protein called gluten, found in wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten is found mainly in foods but may also be found in products we use every day, such as stamp and envelope adhesive, vitamins, etc. When people with celiac disease eat foods or use products containing gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the small intestine.
Seeing that this is a digestive disorder, rather than a topical allergy to these ingredients, I decided to call the Celiac Disease Foundation in Studio City, California. I learned a good deal of information that I wanted to pass along in case you run into clients who have a gluten intolerance.
Generally speaking, Celiac disease is a digestive disorder and the ingestion of gluten (wheat, barley, rye and oats) should be avoided. The topical application of these ingredients would not be a problem with the exception of products applied to the lips.
There is a skin condition that is related to Celiac disease called Dermatitis Herpetiformis (DH). It is a severe, itchy, blistering skin manifestation of celiac disease. Not all people with Celiac disease will have this skin problem, however some will. For patients with this skin condition, they should avoid topical use of gluten ingredients.
Now, there is a large population of people who have Celiac disease that choose not to use any form of gluten whatsoever, including their cosmetics, soaps, shampoos, etc. For this consumer, we have published a Gluten Reference Flyer” that can be downloaded on Beautinet which will help you inform your clients which of our products contain gluten so they can avoid these ingredients.
Realizing that this is growing concern, we have made efforts to replace the use of these ingredients in our products over the past few years. We do not intent to re-formulate to remove these ingredients, but if and when the formula is modified, we will remove the gluten based ingredients if at all possible.
I have a client with Vitiligo, what can be used to treat this condition?
Vitiligo (vit-ill-EYE-go) is a pigmentation disorder in which melanocytes (the cells that make pigment) in the skin are destroyed. As a result, white patches appear on the skin in different parts of the body.
The cause of vitiligo is not known, but doctors and researchers have several different theories. There is strong evidence that people with vitiligo inherit a group of three genes that make them susceptible to de-pigmentation. The most widely accepted view is that the de-pigmentation occurs because vitiligo is an autoimmune disease—a disease in which a person’s immune system reacts against the body’s own organs or tissues.
There are several medical treatments that can be pursued under the guidance of a physician to help get this condition under control, but there is nothing that we can do, with cosmetic products, to stop or correct this condition.
There are, however, things that I can recommend to offer a client who is experiencing the symptoms of vitiligo:
o Sunscreen - Sunscreen helps protect the skin from sunburn and long-term damage. Sunscreen also minimizes tanning, which makes the contrast between normal and de-pigmented skin less noticeable.
o Concealer – Secret Agent Maximum Coverage Concealer is formulated for more severe conditions, such as vitiligo, that require more extreme coverage.
o Self-tanning Lotions – Sunlogics Sunless Tanning Lotion or the Leg Apeel Self-Tanner will help to add color to the de-pigmented areas when used daily.
o Microdermabrasion – our Microdermabrasion Buffing Cream will not add pigment to the skin, but will help to minimize the areas of pigment demarcation that make the areas more noticeable.
What products can be recommended for someone who is undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments to help relieve their skin conditions?
First, I have to preface this by stressing that NONE of our products are developed or tested for those undergoing radiation and chemotherapy. Therefore, I am not diagnosing or prescribing a product, I am simply sharing with you the symptoms of each of these procedures and some products that may help with some of the topical skin concerns. As always, it is best to consult with a physician regarding any products that a person is using when undergoing procedures of this nature.
The effects of radiation and chemotherapy on the skin will vary from person the person. In general, the skin hair and nails will exhibit symptoms of dryness, irritation, redness and sensitivity. Some may experience rashes and severely dry, peeling skin.
Products that a client might choose to try to help with the topical symptoms of these treatments might include:
o Skin Equations skin care products due to the fact that the skin is more sensitive
o If the skin is not generally sensitive, a moisturizing product line such as the Skinlogics Platinum Plus may be better suited.
o Extreme Repair Face and Body Cream as an intensive facial moisturizer.
o Therma Del Sol Olive Butter Body Balm or Skin Hydrator to help with dryness and discomfort on the body
o Demarkable to help inhibit scarring
o A moisturizing bath additive such as the SPA Bath Minerals, Luxuries of the Sea Mineral Bath or the Therma Del Sol Detoxifying Bath Soak.
o Extreme Repair Hand Therapy and Save Your Sole Foot Salve for severely dry skin on hands and feet.
o Skinlogics Hydrating Mist to help give the skin on the spot moisture throughout the day.
o Protective Services for skin irritation on the face and Corticure Comfort Lotion for skin irritation on the body.
o Lip Balm applied constantly throughout the day to help soothe dry, chapped lips
I would recommend that you avoid the use of products containing:
o SD alcohol 40,
o retinol,
o aggressive scrubs,
o clay masks
o any of the All Clear products.
Ingredient Questions
What are the active ingredients in the eye patches?
The ingredients in the eye patches are as follows:
• Water (Aqua)
• Glycerin
• Sodium Polyacrylate
• Dipropylene Glycol
• Kappaphycus Alvarezii - an ocean based botanical
• Palmaria Palmata Extract – red algae extract
• Paeonia Suffruticosa – peony extract
• Betula Alba Bark - white birch bark
• Houttuynia Cordata - chameleon plant
• Alcloxa
• Sodium Polyacrylate
A lot of our products contain propylene glycol. What is your take on this ingredient? I have heard A LOT OF VERY BAD THINGS about it.
Propylene glycol is the proverbial example of a good girl with a bad reputation. Propylene glycol (along with other glycols and glycerol) is a humectant or humidifying and delivery ingredient used in cosmetics. Propylene glycol is considered a safe and appropriate ingredient not just for cosmetic products, but also for ingested products like food and pharmaceuticals. It is on the US Food and Drug Administration's list of ingredients which are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) and is recognized by the World Health Organization as safe for use.
I have been reading a good deal of negative comments about aluminum in cosmetic products. Should I be concerned about the aluminum oxide crystals used in the Microdermabrasion buffing cream?
First of all, don’t believe everything that you read on the internet. If you do, you will be running to the doctor every time to have an itch or not going outside for fear of a U.F.O. invasion. The internet is full of a lot of information – some of it good, much of it, well, not so good.
Aluminum is the 3rd most abundant natural minerals on earth. You cannot avoid it! It is in the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink, etc. Without a doubt we should avoid external and internal ingestion of free aluminum when at all possible as it has been linked to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
In our Microdermabrasion Buffing Cream, we use a very large particle of aluminum oxide crystal. This crystal is large enough that there is really no way for it to be penetrated into the skin, causing any possible health concern.
I saw a report yesterday regarding the use of lead in lipsticks. Can you explain?
BeautiControl is committed to providing the highest quality, safest personal care products possible. Lead is certainly not an ingredient that is added to any of our cosmetic formulations. Constant research into new ingredients and new formulations ensures that the industry provides safe products. Cost is never a consideration for safety.
In the United States, cosmetics are regulated under the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, which is enforced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The American cosmetics industry and its trade association, Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA), work with the FDA to ensure the safety of all cosmetics products sold in the United States. In the statement issued by the CTFA, of which we are a member, “Despite the negligible levels of lead found in some lipsticks, cosmetic companies are committed to reducing that level even further. For decades, cosmetic companies have worked to minimize all product contamination, including lead. They actively and continually review all raw materials to ensure that they contain the lowest levels of impurities possible. Cosmetic companies have some of the world’s leading chemists, toxicologists, and biologists to evaluate all the safety information.”
Beauti Questions
Will we have a mineral makeup?
The short answer is, yes, we are working on a mineral makeup that will be available in 2008.
Now, that begs the next question which is, “since we are always on the forefront of technology, why don’t we already have a mineral makeup?”.
This is a technology that I have been familiar with for quite a few years, since before the first mineral powder foundation was introduced to the US market. Not only am I familiar with it, I have worn it…yes, I have worn it, just like all the other products that we introduce to you. I could never, with all good consciousness, introduce a product to the market that I have not worn and tested on myself. Like any product, mineral foundations have their pros and their cons, in my opinion. Until recently, I have not been impressed enough with the technology of the various brands on the market to wish to duplicate this within our line. When we do bring this category of product onto the market, I can assure you that it will be a step ahead of the competition.
In case you aren’t familiar with this type of product, let me give you some information that will allow you to understand this category of powder foundations a little better and be able to separate fact from marketing hype.
First of all, it is important to realize that most pressed and loose powders, whether they are called “mineral makeup” or not, are made of minerals. Talc, which is the key ingredient in most foundations and powders on the market is a natural mineral and has been proven to be safe and effective despite any negative publicity that has been generated by competitive brands. Unlike other base ingredients, talc is also more oil absorbent and mattifying to the skin, while allowing the formula to blend beautifully, so it is more appealing to women who are looking for a less shiny look. With that being said, one could easily classify our wet/dry foundation as a pressed mineral makeup, since the majority of ingredients are technically minerals. In fact, our Tuscan Sun Bronzer is IDENTICAL to formulas that are being marketed as “mineral makeup”.
I keep hearing people say that they love mineral makeup because it is “all natural”. Well, this is marketing hype at its best. The key ingredient in mineral makeup is bismuth oxychloride, a synthetically manufactured colorant (according to the CTFA Ingredient database), this would disqualify these products from being marketed as “all natural”.
Here are some pros and cons to consider when choosing to use a mineral type foundation, whether it is a competitive brand or ours when we bring this product to the market:
Pros:
o Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (which is found in most foundations) provides broad-spectrum sun protection.
o Provides a sheer, natural looking medium coverage for normal to slightly oily skin types.
o Leaves a shiny luminescence on the skin (which can be a pro or a con, depending on how you look at it).
Cons:
o Looks muddy on oily skin and dry/cakey on dry skin.
o Because the particle size is so finely micronized, they can sink into the pores and cause them to become clogged unless a rigid cleansing regimen and masks are used to keep the pores free of pigment debris. Can make the skin “dirty” with continued use if skin is not properly cleansed.
o Can make the skin oily due to the heavier nature of the base ingredients.
o Can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles on the face as well as accentuate any fine facial hairs that may be present on the face.
o Typically more difficult to blend than other types of powder foundation that have a talc base.
So, that is my basic synopsis on this type of foundation. The bottom line is this – mineral makeup formulas are great, but not intended to be used by everyone. These types of foundations are not best suited for those who exhibit moderate to more advanced signs of aging, or skin that is oily or dry. If you have very few visible signs of aging and have combination to slightly oily skin, then this is a great type of foundation for you.
I love the new Platinum Regeneration Age Defying Foundation. Since it is designed for 40+ skin can I use it if I am still in my 30’s and using the Skinlogics and Regeneration Gold products?
While this incredible new foundation offers skin repair benefits consistent with the Platinum Regeneration products, there is no reason that any age cannot use this formula. There is nothing in this formula that would prevent it from being used by all ages. In fact, every skin type (and age) will benefit from the amazing anti-aging ingredients.
With the new Platinum Regeneration Age Defying Foundation containing an SPF 12, do I still need to use Cell Block C?
This is NOT a replacement for your existing Cell Block C or other SPF product. Platinum Regeneration Age Defying Foundation contains an invisible physical sunblock that will prevent the absorption of UVA/UVB rays on the skin. This is merely added protection to ensure that you are receiving optimal UV protection throughout the day.
With the new Platinum Regeneration Age Defying Foundation containing anti-aging benefits, do I still need to use my repair products?
Yes, this is not a replacement for your repair products, but an addition to. This product does not contain the same polyhydroxy acids as Platinum Regeneration, but contains superior skin firming and hydrating properties that will immediately plump lines and wrinkles while helping to strengthen the dermal mesh to create firmer, tighter skin over time.
I have oily skin, can I still use the Platinum Regeneration Age Defying Foundation?
This foundation is light-weight and oil free. While it does offer full coverage, it is light enough to be worn by all skin types, including those with oily skin.
I live in Canada and noticed that the Platinum Age Defying Foundation does not claim an SPF. Is this a different formula than is sold in the US?
The product that is sold in Canada is exactly the same formula as the one that is sold in the US. Titanium Dioxide provides natural coverage benefits as well as sun protection.
Packaging Questions
Can you tell me what the date means that is printed on the packaging? Is this the date that the product was manufactured?
The date that is printed on the packaging is NOT the date that the product was manufactured. The date that is on the artwork is used for trademark purposes and is there to signify the last time that the artwork was modified for any reason.
What can I do to prevent my Skinlogics tonics and my lash and lid bath caps from leaking when I travel?
There are really only 3 types of closures for bottles, and everyone in the industry uses one of the three.
3 types of closures for bottles:
o standard screw top - (Very inexpensive, less convenient to use, difficult for those with arthritic hands)
o flip top - (fairly in-expensive, lower quality, sometimes difficult to open. The "hinge" on this type of cap tends to break with frequent use)
o disc top (this is the highest quality of all the caps, most frequently used in cosmetic products, easy to open and close, convenient for dispensing, tends to get bumped and open in travel or pop open when exposed to a pressurized environment). We use this type of closure on all of our skin care bottles.
If we move out of the disc top cap in order to make the packages more "travel-able" we would compromise the quality and convenience of the product for at-home use.
We now sell travel caps for all Skinlogics cleansers and tonics except Regeneration Gold Foaming Cleanser #14048 and the Lash & Lid Bath #14049.
