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(NAPSI)-Have you recently considered scheduling an appointment with your aesthetic specialty physician (e.g., dermatologist, plastic surgeon) to talk about how you can improve the look of your skin? If you have, you’re not alone. Nearly 10 million nonsurgical aesthetic procedures were performed in 2007, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). In fact, hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers, such as JUVÉDERM™, have jumped from the fifth most popular nonsurgical procedure in 2006 to second most popular in 2007.

As a result of the ongoing popularity of HA fillers such as JUVÉDERM™, Allergan, Inc. in partnership with tennis greats Tracy Austin and Lindsay Davenport, launched Decades of Smooth™, a health education campaign aimed at educating women and men about the best skin care routines for the various decades of life, taking into account lifestyle choices, environmental factors and individual approaches to aging.

“After years on the court and in the sun, I began to notice changes in my skin that no amount of exercise and healthy eating could fix,” said Tracy Austin, a former world No. 1 tennis player and a network commentator for women’s tennis. “During a visit to my dermatologist, I asked him what I could do to address the wrinkles that bothered me most–the lines that went from the bottom of my nose to the sides of my mouth. He recommended treatment with JUVÉDERM™ dermal filler, and after just one treatment, my lines were instantly filled in and I was happy with the smooth and natural-looking results.”

Lindsay Davenport, a winner of 55 career WTA tour single titles, adds, “As a new mom in my 30s with a busy career on the courts, it is important that my beauty routine stay simple. Treatment with JUVÉDERM™ dermal filler is perfect for me because it instantly creates a natural, refreshed look with minimal downtime. After my treatment, my friends notice a difference, but they can’t quite put their finger on what it is.”

Women and men of all ages often ask what to expect from their skin as they age. Below is a brief overview of potential signs of skin aging through the various decades of life:

What to expect in your 20s: Fine lines and wrinkles may start to appear. Topical anti-aging skin care interventions like sunscreen, antioxidants and exfoliants can help prevent and protect the skin from the appearance of premature aging.

What to expect in your 30s: Continued exposure to the environment, coupled with repeated facial expressions such as frowning, squinting and smiling may make wrinkles and lines apparent even when your face is relaxed. In addition to topical anti-aging skin care products, aesthetic injectable treatments, like JUVÉDERM™, which contains HA, can be injected into wrinkles and folds such as “parentheses” to instantly add volume and minimize their appearance. These fillers deliver a smooth, natural-looking result that can last up to one year.

What to expect in your 40s and beyond: As we continue to age, the structural support of the skin begins to break down as collagen, HA and elastins begin to diminish, causing the skin to lose volume and facial wrinkles and folds to become more prominent. Your doctor may recommend JUVÉDERM™ dermal filler to treat the “parentheses” lines between the nose and mouth and other wrinkles and folds on the face where volume has been lost over time.

For more information on JUVÉDERM™ dermal fillers visit www.juvederm.com.

Tennis champions Tracy Austin and Lindsay Davenport, in partnership with Allergan, Inc. have helped launch the JUVÉDERM™ Decades of Smooth™ campaign, a health education campaign aimed at educating women and men about the best skin care routines for the various decades of life, taking into account lifestyle choices, environmental factors and individual approaches to aging.

A Brief Description of Relevant Indications for Use, Contraindications, Warnings, Precautions and Adverse Events for JUVÉDERM™ Injectable Gel

Indication: In the United States, JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel is indicated for correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds (such as nasolabial folds).

Contraindications: JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel should not be used in patients who have severe allergies marked by a history of anaphylaxis or history or presence of multiple severe allergies. JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel should not be used in patients with a history of allergies to gram-positive bacterial proteins.

Warnings: JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel should not be injected into blood vessels. If there is an active inflammatory process or infection at specific injection sites, treatment should be deferred until the underlying process is controlled.

Precautions: The safety of JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel for use during pregnancy, in breastfeeding females or in patients under 18 years has not been established. The safety and effectiveness of JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel for the treatment of areas other than facial wrinkles and folds (such as lips) have not been established in controlled clinical studies. Patients who are using substances that can prolong bleeding, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as with any injection, may experience increased bruising or bleeding at injection site. Patients should inform their physician before treatment if they are using these types of substances. As with all skin-injection procedures, there is a risk of infection. JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel should be used with caution in patients on immunosuppressive therapy, or therapy used to decrease the body’s immune response, as there may be an increased risk of infection. The safety of JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel in patients with a history of excessive scarring (e.g., hypertrophic scarring and keloid formations) and pigmentation disorders has not been studied. If laser treatment, chemical peel or any other procedure based on active dermal response is considered after treatment with JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel, or if JUVÉDERM™ injectable gel is administered before the skin has healed completely after such a procedure, there is a possible risk of an inflammatory reaction at the treatment site.

Adverse events: The most commonly reported side effects are temporary injection-site redness, swelling, pain/tenderness, firmness, lumps/bumps and bruising. Most side effects are mild or moderate in nature, and their duration is short lasting (seven days or fewer).

Important: For full safety information, please visit www.juvederm.com or call Allergan Product Support at (877) 345-5372.

CAUTION: This device is restricted to sale by or on the order of a physician.

©2008 Allergan, Inc. Irvine, CA 92612. ™ marks owned by Allergan, Inc.

JUVÉDERM™ is a mark owned by Corneal Industrie SAS

(ARA) – With the cost of everything so high these days, people are looking for ways to trim their budgets. Among the most obvious places to cut back, eliminating that morning cup of coffee, bringing a lunch from home instead of dining out and canceling those services you can really do without – like cable TV and that gym membership you don’t really use much anyway.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t stay active, however. Numerous studies have shown that regular exercise is a critical part of staying healthy. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), regular exercise helps people maintain a healthy weight and delay or prevent the onset of diabetes and heart problems.

Regular activity is so important, in fact, that the Federal Government recommends American adults get at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to head down to the gym, which can be more of a chore than a fun activity, not to mention expensive.

Here are some ideas for getting that 30 minute workout anytime, anyplace:

1. Most employers offer an hour long lunch break and two 15-minute breaks throughout the day. Use some of that time to get up and get moving.

If you work in a tall building with lots of floors, use your break time to go up and down the stairs. If stair climbing is not an option, walk around the building at a brisk pace a couple of times a day, stopping occasionally to stretch.

2. If you’re a stay-at-home mom or dad, turn the baby stroller into work-out equipment.

Head on down to the park or just around the block with baby once or twice a day and as you move, use the stroller as a piece of work-out equipment. You can jog behind it, incorporate walking lunges and use bands for resistance training. Not only will you get the benefit of exercise, your baby will love it.

3. Take up sports hula hooping.
Ten minutes worth of vigorously wiggling your hips and moving around can burn off 110 calories, which is about as much as you’d burn if jogging or running an 8-minute mile. But burning calories quickly isn’t the only benefit the activity offers. It also promotes correct body alignment from the circular motions and proper posture in the upper body.

Substitute that light, plastic hula hoop your kids play with for a weighted one like the Acu Hoop offered by California’s Sports Hoop, Inc., and you can get even more health benefits.

When swiveled for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, weighted sports hoops can provide cardiovascular benefits, help tone muscles, burn calories and fat and facilitate weight loss. Do it religiously every day, and you can trim your waist two inches and lose four pounds every month until fit.

Weighted hoops come in a variety of styles and sizes, ranging from 1- to- 6-pounds in weight. No matter which one you choose to use, here’s how to get started:

1) Find enough space around you. Keep your feet one foot wide. Relax your knees, waist and body.

2) Relax your elbows. Lift the hoop and place it tightly against the back of your waist.

3) Grasp the hoop and keep it in a horizontal position before swinging out. Do not position the hoop at a tilt.

4) Horizontally swing out the hoop against your waist, fast and powerfully. Move your waist immediately.

5) Move your waist in a circular motion, all around pressing against the hoop.

6) Keep your motion fast enough to match the circulation speed of the hoop for it to stay up on your waist.

“The best thing about hula-hooping,” says personal trainer Rosemary Torres, “is it can be done anytime, anywhere.”

It is estimated there are now more than one million people throughout the United States using Sports Hoops as their major waist-trimming fitness equipment. For more information on the weighted hoops offered by California Sports Hoop, Inc., or to place an order, visit http://www.sports-hoop.com or call toll free (866) 700-5668.

ARA) – Are you finding yourself under a lot of stress these days? Whether it’s being brought on by tension at work, at home, or by concerns of how the higher gas prices will affect you, there’s a lot on your plate right now.

The last thing you want to deal with is a pounding headache, but unfortunately, tension headaches and stress go hand-in-hand. While there may be little you can do to eliminate the stressors in your life, there are a variety of things you can do to help reduce the severity and frequency of headaches.

Here are some good steps to consider:

* Take a long, hard look at your lifestyle.
Behaviors that promote general good health may also help prevent headaches. If you aren’t physically active, get up and get moving. Regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming or biking can help reduce the frequency and severity of tension headaches. If you don’t think you can get motivated enough on your own, sign up for a gym membership and use it often. You should also get into the habit of eating regular, healthy meals and getting plenty of rest.

* Make sure you’re drinking enough water.
What many people don’t realize is that dehydration is one of the most frequent causes of headaches, in both adults and children. If you’re not drinking the recommended 40 ounces of water per 100 pounds of body weight every day, give it a try. You’ll likely be delighted with the results.

* Find ways to relax
If you’re doing your best to live a healthy lifestyle and drink adequate amounts of water, but are still getting frequent headaches, the problem may be that your body is still having a tough time figuring out how to relax. There are a variety of relaxation techniques you can try including deep breathing and biofeedback. Many people also find that massaging their head, neck and shoulders with their fingertips, and pressing a cold compress onto their forehead helps.

“There’s just something magical about the combination of pressure, massage and coolness that makes a world of difference for me,” says Aurelia Koby, president of IMAK products, a California company that specializes in natural pain relief products. Koby often suffers from headaches, and used to rely on a washcloth wrapped with ice to get relief. “Now there’s something even better,” she says.
The IMAK Pillow/Pain Relief Mask was designed by medical doctor to provide relief from migraines, headaches, sinus pain and eyestrain. All you have to do is put it on your face and secure it in place with the attached elastic strap, then sit back and relax.

The secret to the pillow’s success is in its filling — ergoBeads create a gentle massaging effect around the eyes. While it can be used at room temperature and still feel cool, many people prefer to keep it in the freezer so when they put it on, they get the benefit of an extra ”cooling” relief and a massage at the same time. The Eye Pillow also blocks out light, which makes it even more soothing for pain and tension relief.

You can find the IMAK Eye Pillow/Pain Relief Mask at many online and retail drug stores. For a store locator, log on to www.imakproducts.com.

(NewsUSA) - Consumers today are bombarded by a wide variety of anti-aging products for the body and face, whether they are simple cosmetics or surgical procedures. But the fountain of youth really just comes from better nutrition, one health expert says.

A survey by the American Academy of Dermatology found that 94 percent of women are confused by all the available anti-aging treatments (over-the counter and prescription) as well as the procedures available in a doctor’s office.

Yet according to Cherie Calbom, author of “The Wrinkle Cleanse,” you can look younger starting with your next meal. Her book outlines a four-step approach to getting softer, younger-looking skin, explaining that a diet rich in raw foods, vegetable juices, whole grains and lean protein can cleanse the body of toxins and protect it from the causes of wrinkles and other symptoms of aging.

The mention of vegetable juices might ring a bell: Calbom, who has a master’s degree in nutrition, is better known as “The Juice Lady” for her work with juicing and health. She has appeared regularly on the QVC channel for the last eight years and is the author of several books, including “Juicing for Life.”

Calbom stresses that several factors affect how our skin ages, including environmental toxins, sun exposure, free radical attacks on the cells, inflammation and a weakened immune system. Her approach to creating a better diet geared toward reduced wrinkling has four components:

* Step 1 involves quick cleanses with either an all-day vegetable juice fast or a two-day raw-food program, designed to help repair damaged cells.

* Step 2 introduces a low-carbohydrate diet for 14 days that has plenty of vegetables, sprouts, vegetable juices, low-sugar fruit, whole grains and lean proteins. One key aspect of this stage is lowering caloric intake overall.

* Step 3 is composed of cleaning programs for your intestinal tract, liver, gallbladder, kidneys and blood. Detoxification is key, according to Calbom, in the effort to fight wrinkles.

* Step 4 outlines the vitamins and minerals needed to fight the symptoms of aging and how they can be incorporated into your diet.

Calbom offers several nutritional guidelines and more than 75 easy-to-make recipes and menu plans. Her strategy emphasizes what she calls the “wrinkle fighters” - foods that are rich in nutrients to help strengthen collagen and elastin for better skin. Some examples include carrots, which add luster to the hair; artichokes for better energy; and almonds, a good source of vitamin B.

“The Wrinkle Cleanse” is published by Avery/Penguin Group USA. It’s available in bookstores now.

(ARA) - From flowers to guest lists, engaged couples spend months planning the perfect wedding. After the vows are said and the reception is complete, most newlyweds are ready to relax. But there are several steps newlyweds should take before their happily ever after can begin.

“Settling into life as a married couple takes some work,” says Lindsey Leesmann, a recent newlywed and contributor to YesYouCanOnline.info. “If you’re taking your husband’s last name, you must complete the name change in several places. You also have to discuss managing money as a couple and learn how to live together.”

Leesmann offers the following to-do list for newlyweds changing their last names:

Obtain a copy of your marriage license
If you stated you’d be changing your last name when purchasing your marriage license, you’ll receive a copy of the license in the mail. This license should be taken to each location on your path toward a new last name.

Go online
Next, acquire a new Social Security card and update your passport. Complete Form SS-5 and take it to the local Social Security office to obtain a new card. The form can be found on the Social Security Administration’s Web site (www.ssa.gov). Your passport can be changed by completing Form DS-5504, found at www.travel.state.gov.

Drive to the DMV
The next stop for newlyweds is the local Department of Motor Vehicles. Each state is different, so make sure to bring all the items required to get your name changed and renew your driver’s license.

Check in at your bank
Most banks simply need a copy of the marriage license and the account holder’s signature to approve a name change. Some may also require your spouse to be present.

Drop by the post office
To change your name at the post office, just pick up a change of address envelope, fill it out and mail it back.

Once the name change is complete, newlyweds can focus on managing money as a couple.

“Money is often a tricky topic for new couples,” says Sam Goller, award-winning author of “Yes, You Can… Achieve Financial Harmony.” “But it’s important to start communicating about money at the beginning of your marriage.”

Goller offers the following suggestions for newlyweds working to manage their finances as a couple:

Determine priorities
Prior to creating a financial plan, talk about your histories with money and what’s most important to each of you when it comes to money.

Find missing dollars
You have to understand your spending habits before you can spend money in a way that helps meet your goals. Consider keeping a spending journal to find out where your money really goes.

Choose a system that works for you
You may prefer to sit down each month as a couple to pay bills and develop a monthly budget. Or maybe one of you is better at handling expenses and prefers to do it alone. Find a system that works with your needs.

“The key to managing money as a couple is to never stop talking,” says Goller. “With shared determination, a plan and open communication, newlyweds have the power to improve their financial position both now and well into retirement.”

For more information on managing money as a couple, visit http://www.YesYouCanOnline.info .

Here are six essentials every woman should keep in her make-up kit this summer to keep skin looking healthy, glowing and gorgeous:

1. Foundation that Offers SPF Protection
Do double duty – hide imperfections and be protected from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The Body Shop’s Flawless Skin Protecting Foundation with SPF 25 is an innovative cream-to-powder foundation that provides medium to full coverage. A perfect color blend for a healthy-looking, flawless complexion and has a mineral defense shield to protect skin to boot. The unique formula contains Vitamin C to brighten skin and Community Trade marula oil to condition and moisturize.

2. A Bronzing Powder to Mimic that Sun-Kissed Glow
Housed in a retro-style compact, Sun Lustre Bronzer, which is part of The Body Shop’s new limited edition Summer Make-Up Collection, comes in two colors: Bronze Gleam which is a natural sun-kissed bronze and Radiant Blush, a pretty, pink illuminating shade.

3. A Water-Proof Mascara
You never know when the mood might hit to take a spontaneous jump in the pool, and you don’t want your make-up to suffer. Find a mascara that will survive the water, and also coat lashes with long-lasting color, while helping to condition and protect. The Body Shop’s Waterproof Mascara is a great find, and contains Community Trade marula oil.

4. Bright Eyeshadow
Bright, bold, colorful eye shadow helps to enhance the sun-kissed look. The Body Shop’s Summer Shimmer Cubes come in Sea Blue which is a deep ocean blue with a hint of silver; Fiery Red which is an intense, vibrant red with softer pink overtones; Green Meadow, a stunning, bright emerald green; and Golden Sun which offers a rich, warm, golden glow.

5. Sparkly, Sheer Lipstick to Brighten Up Face
Dark, heavy lip color is best worn in winter, for the summer months try a sheer color that still adds some color to your look. The Body Shop Sheer Lip Lustre is a pearlescent lip balms with a hint of sparkle. The Lip Lustres are infused with a “White Tea” fragrance for a deliciously summery scent and available in three different shades: Flush pink is a pretty pink with a hot pink sparkle. Golden Rose is a golden pink with a golden sparkle. Rose Shimmer is a rose shade with multi-colored sparkle.

6. Faking It – Self-Tanners Instead of Sun-Bathing
Because you still desire a deep-tanned look but are wary of exposing your skin to the sun’s harmful UV rays to achieve it, use a self tanning product. The Cocoa Butter Everyday Summer Body Lotion from The Body Shop helps gradually build that even sun-kissed glow. Start by applying to dry and well cleansed skin, and allow to set in before dressing for your night on the town. The Everyday Summer Body Lotion uses Community Trade cocoa butter from Ghana to soften skin and improve elasticity, so you are helping to improve the texture of skin while also adding that ‘fresh from the beach’ glow.

Also, to enhance your look even further, smooth on a Body and Leg Shine to your arms, legs and chest before hitting the beach. It’s a wash-off product that goes on with minimal blending to give you a slimmer, more toned appearance along with fabulous color. One of the key ingredients is Community Trade aloe vera which is known for its soothing and hydrating effects. There are shades available for fair to medium skin tones, as well as medium to dark skin tones.

Then at the end of the day when you return home from the beach, there’s one more essential you don’t want to be without — a tube of The Body Shop’s new Peppermint Purifying Foot Mask. Made with Community Trade Peppermint Essential Oil from the U.K that will leave your feet feeling cool, refreshed and fragranced, and Sesame Oil from Guatemala that moisturizes and protects the skin, the mask will deep cleanse and soothe tired, achy feet that have spent the day running across the hot sand.

To find the Body Shop location nearest you, log on to http://www.TheBodyShop.com   .

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Community Trade is a unique targeted purchasing program created by The Body Shop, sourcing accessories and natural ingredients from disadvantaged communities around the world for more than 20 years. The program is now making a world of difference in more than 20 countries from Bangladesh to Zambia.

In exchange for providing good, quality products at a fair price, participating farmers get a sustained source of income which can be used for improving education or sanitation, building homes and modernizing farming methods

(ARA) – Break out the patio furniture and light up the barbeque – it’s time for summer entertaining! Whether you’re hosting the neighborhood Fourth of July cook-out or dolling up for a romantic evening under the stars, make sure you are protecting your skin before you head outdoors for summer fun.

For those who think the sun is the only thing they need to protect themselves from during the summer months, guess again. Mosquito bites are not only unsightly, but last year, West Nile Virus affected 121 people in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, women especially, don’t have to let ugly insect bites ruin their summer fun.

“It doesn’t have to be hard to keep your skin beautiful all summer long,” says Rebecca Borman, former Survivor contestant, and two-time Emmy Award-winning make-up artist on The View. “Keep your summer beauty routine low-maintenance with products like OFF! FamilyCare Smooth & Dry, which protects skin from mosquito bites and feels dry and comfortable.”

For those summertime occasions when you’d rather wear a sundress or shorts, she recommends quickly spraying on the repellent and going about your day. The unique cornstarch formula dries on contact and feels smooth and weightless on skin (unlike greasy, oily repellents).

Whether you’re attending a backyard barbeque or an outdoor concert, in addition to putting on bug repellent, Borman recommends you do the following:

* Protect your skin.
When stepping outside, protect your skin from the sun by wearing a high SPF sunblock (at least 15) to help avoid sunburn and premature wrinkles. Also, don’t forget to wear repellent to prevent ugly and potentially dangerous insect bites.

* Avoid smeared make-up.
Use a weatherproof powder to set and prevent make-up smudges and meltdowns. Facial blotting tissues can also help with quick touch ups.

* Stay hydrated.
Pack a water bottle in your beach bag, and when you stop for lunch, be sure to ask for that extra refill so you can top it off. Drinking cool liquids will help beat the summer heat and will help replenish your skin’s glow.

With these few tips you should be ready to enjoy an afternoon at the beach or evening on the patio without letting annoying mosquitoes or other summer elements disrupt your beauty routine!

For more tips on keeping mosquitoes at bay, visit http://www.offprotects.com   .

Cary, NC — The Itsy Bitsy Baby Spa, a new center for the well-being of moms, dads, and babies from early pregnancy through the toddler years, is opening its doors to the Triangle Community with a mission to raise the bar in healthy parenting. Through a wide selection of programs, workshops and resources, the new Itsy Bitsy Baby Spa aims to help parents bond with and nurture their children, get fit and allow them to embrace the natural process of parenting. The goal is that parents, babies and toddlers alike will leave feeling peaceful, happy and re-energized. Programs provided at the baby spa include Infant Massage, Mommy and Baby Yoga, Mommy and Toddler Yoga, Mommy and Baby Belly Dance, Prenatal Yoga and Pilates, Belly Dance, Prenatal Breastfeeding, Breastfeeding Support Group, Baby Sign Language, Sing and Sign Playtime, and many more.

The baby spa, designed as a supportive, therapeutic, and luxurious environment, is staffed with certified, credentialed experts and offers a variety of hand-picked natural products for a mother’s prenatal and postnatal care, as well as for the care of her baby. The spa also features a gift store offering unique baby gifts and custom gift packages.

Read More:CarolinaNewsWire

CARY, N.C. – Larry Dunlap, managing partner of Haircolorxperts, has announced that the salon will hold a new referral contest for its clients from Feb. 14-March 16. During this time, anyone who refers a new client that receives a service will be entered into a drawing. First prize for the contest is a year’s worth of hair care up to $750. Additional prizes include flat irons, hair dryers and other hair care products. The contest will take place at both the Cameron Village and Arboretum at Weston locations. Haircolorxperts specializes in hair coloring, cutting and styling services.

“We are looking forward to our new referral contest,” said Dunlap. “Our clients are valuable to us and we are excited to offer them this opportunity.”

Read More:CarolinaNewsWire