courtesy of Shutterstock

What can I do for premature aging on the neck and chest?
One of the biggest complaints people have is about the premature aging of the neck and chest. Many fail to treat this skin with the same diligence as they treat their face. Fortunately, you can reverse the signs of aging for the neck and chest just like you can for your face. Both red and brown discolorations can be effectively treated with a little to no downtime treatment like IPL (Intense pulsed light). IPL uses light to diminish sun spots and broken vessels, creating an even skin tone. Treatments are generally done in a series for best results, one treatment per month for three to six months. Since treatments also include microdermabrasion as part of the process, you also get the added benefit of a physical exfoliation, which removes dead skin cells and helps to smooth the surface while also aiding in lifting pigment. Treatments are only $250, or buy four, get one free. Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Care 254-3686


What is the most important skin care product to use to prevent premature aging?
With so many choices in the skin care market, one can feel overwhelmed and unsure which products are the most beneficial in preventing premature aging. The key word here is prevention. The more you protect your skin now, the less you will have to spend correcting sun damage later on. The two products that come with highest recommendations are topical antioxidants like CE Ferulic by Skinceuticals and a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion like Elta Uv Shield SPF 45. Topical antioxidants protect skin by neutralizing free radicals that are caused by the pollutants in the environment. And as a bonus, they brighten the skin and stimulate collagen. Broad-spectrum sunscreen lotions provide a physical block on the skin from not only burning UVB rays, but also the UVA rays, which cause premature wrinkling and damage. All skin types and all age groups are able to benefit from using these two products. DermaCure Medical Aesthetics 257-8400

Special for Spring!
Cuban Inspired Beauty Treats for Dry, Rough Skin
Designed to evoke the 1940's glamour of the small apothecaries that lined the romantic side streets of Havana, this personal collection pays homage to natural beauty ingredients like coffee bean and tobacco flower, as well as pure aromatherapy and natural essences like orange extract, sugar cane and sweet pineapple. Whether or not they knew it then, today we know these ingredients contain the AHAs, antioxidants and other agents that actively moisturize, hydrate and reduce the redness associated with dry, rough skin. Pictured here: Archipelago Boticario de Havana body wash, lotion, personal fragrance and soap on a rope.
Ma Maison 799-7983

courtesy of Shutterstock

Three of the most Common WAX Questions & Answers What should I expect after my first waxing?
Everyone reacts differently; there is a possibility of temporary redness, irritation or slight itching for a day or two. This should go away quickly. Also expect your hair to grow back thinner, lighter and less often.

I've heard you can get ingrown hairs from waxing. What can I do to prevent or treat them?
Ingrown hairs can happen to anyone. There are several things you can do minimize discomfort:
• Exfoliate before waxing to eliminate dead cells in the area.
• Keep waxed areas clean, especially those where naturally-curly hair grows.
• Wear loose clothing in recently-waxed areas so the skin can "breathe."

How often should I get waxed?
Ideally, every four weeks is a good interval; hair must be one-quarter inch long for the most effective waxing.
WAX by Heather Nelson is located in the Sola Salons on Bouquet Canyon. 644-4346