Top tips for keeping skin healthy and beautiful all winter long


(ARA) - No matter where you live in the country, winter's grip can take its toll on your health, including your mood, waistline and even your skin.



"It's important to consider the seasons in your skin care routine and make adjustments for the best possible results," says Dr. Gervaise Gerstner, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai. Gerstner's advice has appeared in the pages of Allure, Harper's Bazaar, Self and W magazines. "Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and the first line of protection for all the other organs. Sunlight, changes in weather, and seasonal stress can affect our skin's health. They're also factors that make us overlook proper care, so it's critical you have the right routine in place."



Gerstner offers her top tips for keeping skin beautiful and healthy this winter, and all year long:



1. Keep your hands off. Your hands can pick up a lot of germs and bacteria during the day that can cause breakouts or even infections, so keep them far away from your face. Also, since winter is often associated with irritating flareups of pimples, rashes and cold sores, it's important to avoid the urge to pick.  Picking can cause inflammation, and with broken or raw skin, further put you at risk for infection, and even cause scarring.



2. Slather on sunscreen. "Even on days it rains or snows, it's important to wear sunscreen," Gerstner advises. Your skin is constantly exposed to potentially harmful UVA and UVB rays. Even just walking from your office to the coffee shop on the grayest of days exposes you to possible solar damage, such as wrinkles and even skin cancer.



3. Treat ailments quickly.  Common conditions like cold sores can be embarrassing and painful, so treat them right away to find relief. Remedies found at your local drugstore can be effective, and Dr. Gerstner recommends Nexcare Cold Sore Treatment from 3M. It contains Microvex to soothe and moisturize, and active ingredients benzocaine to help relieve pain and allantoin for added lip protection. Log on to www.nexcarecoldsore.com to learn more.



4. Don't forget your nails and hair. They're part of your skin too, and often show the most obvious signs of winter's impact like raw skin and split ends. It's important to properly moisturize, such as using a leave-in or deep conditioner, or heavier creams on your face and hands. Dr. Gerstner also says that hair loss and brittle nails are two of the most common complaints she hears from her female patients. Taking a daily biotin supplement of 5,000 mcg can help.  Limit use of a flat iron to once or twice a week, and avoid excessive hair coloring treatments.



5. Brighten your smile, and use it often. Winter's weather woes and seasonal stress can make it easy to forget to smile, but nothing makes your face look better than a big grin. Keep your teeth well polished - whitening strips can help - and flash your smile frequently. It can brighten your mood and the moods of others around you.



6. Quit smoking and moderate alcohol use. By now, virtually everyone knows smoking is deadly. But if the health threats of smoking don't convince you to quit, perhaps an appeal to your vanity will help. Smokers suffer more wrinkles, poorer skin texture and slower wound healing than people who don't smoke. Alcohol too can dehydrate your body - which often shows the next day in parched skin and eyes. It also exacerbates adult acne, called rosacea. When drinking alcohol, alternate with a glass of seltzer.



7. Forego designer brands. Expensive creams leave your wallet lighter and don't necessarily make your skin look any better than less costly products do. Simple drug store products can work just as well, especially if supplemented with a retinol or glycolic recommendation from your dermatologist. Fancy products often contain essential oils or fragrances which can irritate skin.

Four ways to reduce your waistline and your personal impact on the environment


(ARA) - It's empowering to know that there are small changes you can make in your own life that can also have positive effects on everyone else's life. But did you know that many of the same things you personally do to live a healthier lifestyle, can also positively impact the environment?



In fact, improving your own waistline and reducing your personal waste are connected in more ways than you've probably thought about. Here are four changes you can make to your everyday life that will also make a positive impact on your health and the earth:



* Eat local, organic foods. By making sure that you are purchasing locally grown, organic foods, you are also reducing the amount of energy it takes to transport the food to your area. When you eat locally, it means that the food has to travel a much shorter distance to make it onto your plate, therefore reducing its impact on the environment. It also allows you to know that you are eating some of the freshest produce available to you, which are packed with vitamins you need to improve your health.



* Drink more water, but ditch the disposable plastic bottle. We often mistake thirst for hunger, so grabbing some water might quench both a craving and your thirst. Water is a far better choice than calorie-ridden sugary beverages.



By carrying a reusable container, like a Brita FilterForGood Nalgene bottle with you instead of single-use plastic water bottles, you'll do your part in reducing plastic waste. "If everyone in the United States pledged to give up bottled water for just one month it could save more than 5 billion bottles," says Josh Dorfman, environmental activist, TV host and author of "The Lazy Environmentalist on a Budget: Save Money. Save Time. Save the Planet."



* Eat more fruits and vegetables. The health benefits of increasing the amount of vegetables in your diet are well-documented, as vegetables are a low-fat, low-calorie source of essential nutrients. But did you know that when you eat less meat and more vegetables, you're also reducing your carbon footprint?



According to a 2008 Economic Information Bulletin from the USDA, the food market produces hundreds of pounds of meat each year per American to meet demand - an amount that has not been good for our nation's waistlines. The production of meat uses many more resources than fruits and veggies, which is why Dorfman recommends going meatless at least one day a week. For a fun and healthy way to learn more about how your food is sourced, ride a bike or jog over to a local farmer market.



* Power of the pedal, or your feet. On your way to becoming healthier, you're sure to include exercise in your plan. Sometimes though, exercising can have a greater purpose than just working your muscles and improving cardiovascular health.



Consider including daily chores into your workout plan, as it will help you fit in your workout while also leaving your car on the curb. Bike or walk to the grocery store to do your weekly shopping.



If you decide to take up the quest to improve both the health of yourself and the planet, you're not alone. Contestants on NBC's "The Biggest Loser" are also learning about ways they can help the environment while losing weight this season. Tune into the show and take the FilterForGood Pledge at www.filterforgood.com to learn more and get involved.

How to celebrate the women in your life by choosing the right jewelry


(ARA) - When it comes to giving a meaningful gift to the important women in your life, few gifts say more than jewelry. The right piece of jewelry will complement her personality or even remind her of the special moments you've shared.



Jewelry has always been a popular gift for women, but that's even truer this year. The number of women who say jewelry is on their wish lists has increased 13 percent from last year, according to the National Retail Federation's annual holiday survey.



Personalizing jewelry can be a challenge, but with a little thought it's easy to select something as special as her. For those having trouble getting started, Pandora jewelry has been celebrating women for nearly 30 years, and offers a few tips for finding the perfect gift. The key is to think of the emotions, memories and moments that define the person you will be buying for:



Wife or girlfriend: Buying for a wife or girlfriend seems like it should be easy, because you know her better than anyone. But that can also add to the pressure of finding something she likes and that is as unique as your relationship. Do some observing and figure out what colors she likes and whether she prefers silver, gold or a combination of the two. By coyly doing the research rather than asking her, she'll be impressed when you deliver a gift that matches her individual style.



For Mom: Since a mother will love any gift that comes from her child, it doesn't hurt to ask her subtly if there's been anything in particular she's been wanting. You can never go wrong with a set of earrings or a nice bracelet to complement her favorite outfit.



For a friend: Think about a special moment you have recently shared with your friend or a big accomplishment in her life, such as a new job or completing a marathon. Find a unique piece of jewelry that relates to that moment and she's sure to appreciate the gift.



High-quality, hand-finished charm bracelets also work well for any special woman in your life, because they offer particularly unique opportunities to personalize. For example, Pandora offers 800 hand-finished charms of varying sizes, shapes and colors so the options when designing a charm bracelet for your loved one are practically limitless.



Charm bracelets also make a great gift because you can continue to build on them as the years go by. The affordable luxury nature of charm bracelets allow the gift giver to find momentous and even everyday reasons to celebrate life's unforgettable moments.



When searching for that special piece of jewelry for your loved one, just remember that she's bound to like whatever you get her if there's a story behind it. The charm of jewelry is that it reminds the wearer of the person who bought it for her and the special moments they have shared.

Vintage: the year's must-have fashion trend


(ARA) - You're seeing it everywhere, from runways to street style blogs to "it girls" who act as fashion muses: retro vintage style is making a refreshing comeback. Preppy must-haves, lady-like accessories and cuts inspired by classic retro styles have made their way back into the fashion consciousness.



As luck would have it, it's easier than you think to be a part of the trend this season. Check out these simple tips for incorporating retro style into your wardrobe easily and affordably.



* Shop your closet. Did you hang onto your favorite cashmere twinset, Peter Pan-collared blouse or short-sleeve sweater from years past? These classic American sportswear separates are suddenly the must-haves of the season. It's time to bring these basics back to the forefront of your closet. Have fun mixing and matching these pieces with on-trend accessories to create refreshing new looks.



* Focus on feminine details: Subtle accents like sparkly brooches, a classic pearl bracelet and a lady-like, structured handbag will bring your look to life. Feminine details reminiscent of a bygone era are guaranteed to take your outfit to the next level. You'll be able to find some easy-on-the-wallet options at vintage stores or by shopping your favorite discount store for deals on modern versions of these eye-catching styles.



* Think vintage when it comes to accessories. Many quintessential American accessory brands are experiencing a fashion revival, like Timex, which offers a variety of styles that are new takes on classic designs from the decades gone by.



"The Originals 1940s Inspiration watch features a vintage construction expansion band and a simple, clean design. I love this style because it's so easy to wear and fits perfectly with the retro fashion trend," says style expert Amy E. Goodman.



* Stick to a soft palette. The "it" shades of the season are soft neutrals: pale pinks, camel hues and heather grays. The way to wear them is in accent pieces such as cardigans or blouses. Don them with your favorite jeans and a pair of versatile menswear-inspired shoes like penny loafers or brogues for an easy everyday look.



* Pull it all together: Remember these final tips to achieve the retro look: Figure-flattering styles were dominant in this era, so stay away from anything loose or baggy. Looking polished from head to toe is the key to pulling this look together. Pair a simple updo hairstyle with crisp, tailored clothing and snappy shoes to finish it off.



Remember that retro style isn't about creating a costume. By incorporating retro touches into an overall modern look, you'll capture the interesting details of vintage style while still keeping your look fresh and up to date.



For more style tips that will help you perfect your own vintage retro style, visit www.TimexStylewatch.com.

Enhancing yoga with essential oils


(ARA) - The popularity of yoga is exploding in the United States. Nearly 15 million people partake of the practice, according to the Yoga Journal. The Wall Street Journal printed that yoga is the fastest growing sport in America.



Yoga is much more than a form of physical exercise - it is a disciplined practice that touches upon the health and well-being of the entire body, mind and spirit. The familiar bending and stretching exercises (or asanas) are just one of many interrelated practices that connect and align all aspects of the practitioner into a state of complete balance. (Yoga is a Sanskrit word that means to yoke, or join together.) Other aspects of this yoking process include breathing, withdrawing the focus from the outward to the inward, meditation, purification and the rejection of violence, greed and jealousy, to name just a few.



Like yoga, the practice of aromatherapy strives to support the well-being of body, mind and spirit. Aromatherapy achieves its effects through the application and diffusion of pure plant essential oils that influence physical wellness, a positive emotional state and mental clarity. Combining aromatherapy with yoga can powerfully enhance the yoga journey. Three key methods of application are:



* Diffusing - aromatic essential oils are evaporated into the yoga practice space to create an inspiring/motivating mood and to enhance breathing.



* Purifying - essential oils are applied as powerful cleansing agents to wipe down and deodorize the yoga mat or used to clear the atmosphere.



* Anointing - essential oils are used in applications of massage to enhance body stretching and recovery or worn as a scent to support visualization, meditation and focus.



How to use oils in yoga



Tom Havran, product formulator for Aura Cacia gives these tips for enhancing yoga practice with the power of essential oils.



Diffuse essential oils during your yoga session with a candle lamp. Candle lamps consist of a bowl of water over a small tea light-style candle. Just add six to 10 drops of essential oil to 1/4 cup water in the bowl, and then light the candle. The flickering flame, coupled with the gentle release of aroma, will create a potent ambience during your yoga practice.



Consider using these essential oils:



* tangerine and peppermint are inspiring and motivating;

* eucalyptus and cypress open the breathing process;

* sandalwood and vetiver are grounding and strengthening.



Create a purifying mist that doubles as a yoga mat cleanser and room deodorizing spray. Combine 12 drops of sweet orange, six drops of tea tree and six drops of lavender with 4 ounces of water in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle and mist over your mat and wipe it clean with a soft towel before and after each use. Or use the spray to mist the air of your practice space to create a clean, motivationally aromatic atmosphere.



Blend one or more versions of your own signature massage/anointing oil formulas. Start with 4 tablespoons of a light, non-greasy carrier oil such as jojoba or grapeseed oil and then add 12 drops of essential oils. You can customize the blend of essential oils to create several yoga-centered benefits.



Benefits of essential oils



Vetiver, ginger and patchouli will be grounding and earth-connecting while sandalwood and cedarwood are stabilizing, strengthening and centering - all of these essential oils will help with balance and stability in your yoga poses.



Myrrh, frankincense, eucalyptus and rosemary encourage the flow of energy, self-expression and help you achieve steady, deep inhalations and exhalations. (Mastering your breathing process is as important to successful yoga practice as the poses.)



Lavender, geranium and chamomile are calming and relaxing.



Bergamot, lemon and orange lend a sense of fulfillment and spiritual nourishment to your yoga quest.



Neroli, jasmine, ylang and rose promote transcendence and spiritual expression.



Like any system of self-improvement, the successful practice of yoga requires some motivation and diligence. Yoga is not a boot camp program. Nor is it focused soullessly on the creation of a hard and sexy body. Yoga is a journey to a soulfully balanced body that is properly aligned with mind and spirit. Incorporating the powerfully effective properties of aromatic essential oils - often described as the souls of the plant - into your practice can help you fulfill your journey. For more tips on using essential oils in your yoga practice, visit www.auracacia.com.

Get caught looking glamorous this holiday season


(ARA) - While the holiday season is one of the most joyous times of the year, it can also be one of the busiest. Days (and nights) are filled with shopping, cooking, gift wrapping and of course celebrating at holiday parties with family and friends.



So wherever the holiday season may take you, it is always important to get caught looking your absolute best.



"You don't want to be caught off guard when you bump into someone while you're doing last-minute holiday shopping," says beauty expert Polly Blitzer. "If you make a habit of using the right beauty products from brands women trust - I love COVERGIRL, Pantene, Olay and Clairol - you'll look good day or night, no matter where you're going, and no matter what you're doing."



Now here are some more tips from Polly to help you get caught looking glamorous:



* Update your wardrobe with a few simple items for a new glam look at each gathering. Start with a simple dress (a new little black dress is usually the most versatile) and then accessorize with scarves, jewelry, shoes and handbags. One dress can be worn to many soirees just by switching up the accents; this way, you won't have to spend a lot of money on several outfits.



* Puffiness and dark circles under your eyes don't mix well with the stilettos and sequins you plan to wear to the season's hottest party. So try Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Eye Roller to reduce under eye puffiness in 30 seconds and look fresh and radiant all season long.



* Foundation is the first step in creating a flawless look, so make sure to pick a product that provides adequate coverage, but also goes on sheer. COVERGIRL's Simply Ageless Foundation provides a flawless finish without settling into fine lines and wrinkles throughout the day. It also goes on sheer, making imperfections seem to disappear while improving skin condition over time.



* Don't show up at the party with naked nails - head out to a salon or invite a friend over for a manicure. Smooth cuticles, buff rough nail edges, moisturize frequently and paint them with a neutral color that will work with many of your holiday styles.



* To ensure you're not looking dreary like the winter weather, dial up your hair's color and shine with Clairol Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy. It gives hair high gloss, high shine and gorgeous color in just 10 minutes.



* And finally, don't hide behind your dry, frizzy locks when the cameras start flashing. Pantene Pro-V Restore Beautiful Lengths Shine Enhance Replenishing Mask has an advanced formula to treat rough, dull hair and will leave your tresses looking and feeling smooth and silky.



"Most importantly, don't forget to turn on your brilliant smile and rock your look with confidence every time you walk out the door," says Blitzer.



For more tips on how to get caught looking glamorous this holiday season, go to www.musthaveits.com.

Solving the wardrobe riddle


(ARA) - Have a closet overflowing with pieces that are no longer in fashion or just plain unflattering? Not quite sure, actually, what lies behind closet door number one?



Amy E. Goodman, Timex fashion trend director and fashion and beauty author, aims to solve women's wardrobe riddles with her new book, "Wear This, Toss That!"



Goodman believes it costs us not to look our best. "A closet filled with clothes you don't wear is like hanging money on hangers and not spending it," she says. And not just in dollars, but in confidence, too. "The bottom line is that we all want to look good, so I made it my mission to help women regain control of their closets by simplifying their choices." In her new book, organized cleverly like a woman's closet, she shares her insider fashion and beauty wears and tosses one hanger and product at a time.



Here's a highlight of her wake-up-your-wardrobe advice:



* Wear: The wrap shirt. An adjustable wrap shirt is universally flattering because it shows off a little skin while slimming and accentuating the waist. Pair these tops with a statement necklace for added drama and never tuck



* Wear: Dark denim wide-leg trousers. A pair of sleek, wide-leg jeans is the ultimate closet staple, ideal for both a day at the office or a night out. "The dark wash creates a finished look and elongates the leg," Goodman says. Beware: Dark denim has less stretch so prepare to size up for the perfect fit.



* Toss: High-waisted bell bottom pants. If your cuffs are so wide they distractingly swoosh when you walk, it's time to retire them as a 70's memory.



* Wear: The long cardigan. Long cardis in a medium-weight fabric complement almost any body type. Goodman recommends pairing one with a skinny belt and a button-up shirt for work, or wearing unbuttoned with a funky hipster belt for weekend.



* Toss: The thin cardigan with a wide belt. You'll look dowdy. Save wider belts for thicker fabrics, like knits.



* Wear: The vintage-inspired watch. In your accessories drawers, a classic timepiece is key. "You'll always look polished with a timeless ladylike watch," states Goodman. "American watch brand Timex offers a variety of watches for a steal, and the Timex Originals collection features new takes on classic designs from previous decades."



* Toss: Singular chain and bent wire bracelets. Step out with multiple bangles stacked instead.



*Wear: The A-line dress. A classic A-line cut is an instant hip minimizer and must-have staple. Goodman advises pairing this save-me with knee-high boots or a kitten heel to showcase a woman's legs.



For more style tips from author Amy E. Goodman, visit www.TimexStylewatch.com.

Easy solutions to brighten a winter beauty routine


(ARA) - You may be feeling the winter blues, but that does not mean your beauty routine has to suffer. There are easy ways to boost your beauty regimen using simple, affordable tips that can be done at home. Why spend money on expensive facials, treatments and products when you can do-it-yourself?



Here are at-home beauty tips using a simple, low-cost product virtually everyone has in their home: ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda.



Remove hair product build up:

* Residue left behind by styling products can leave hair flat and unmanageable. Get rid of product build up by sprinkling a small amount (quarter-size) of baking soda into your palm along with your favorite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly (avoiding eye area).



* Keep your brushes and combs clean so hair will have more shine. Remove natural oil build-up and hair product residue by soaking combs and brushes in a solution of one teaspoon baking soda in a small basin of warm water. Rinse and allow to dry.



End rough winter skin:

* For smooth, radiant skin, give yourself a gentle facial and body scrub. Make a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water. Rub in a gentle circular motion to exfoliate skin and remove dead skin cells. Rinse clean. Note: be careful to avoid the eye area when using this scrub.



* After a long, tough day, soak in the bathtub to relax. Adding a half cup of baking soda to your bath neutralizes acids on your skin and helps wash away oil and perspiration. Your skin will feel smooth and all the worries of the day will wash down the drain.



Get softer cuticles, hands and feet:

* For your toes, start your home pedicure off by dissolving two tablespoons of baking soda in a basin of warm water with a few drops of lavender oil to enhance the experience. After soaking, make a scrub of three parts baking soda with one part water and exfoliate your feet. Follow with an application of a rich moisturizer and a warm towel foot wrap, and then apply polish as usual.



* To clean and exfoliate your nails, dip a nail brush into a paste of three parts baking soda and one part water and rub in a gentle, circular motion over your hands and fingers to exfoliate and smooth the skin. Rinse clean with warm water and apply polish as usual.



For a winter white smile:

* If you're looking for a gleaming smile this holiday season, sprinkle baking soda into your palm, dip in a damp toothbrush and brush and rinse thoroughly to freshen those pearly whites. ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda does not contain the anti-cavity ingredient fluoride. Use it where water is fluorinated or when a non-fluoride toothpaste is desired for adult use or as directed by your dentist or physician.



* For a refreshing mouthwash, use one teaspoon baking soda in a half glass of water. Swish the solution through your teeth and rinse.



For more beauty solutions, or ideas for how to use ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda throughout your home, visit www.armandhammer.com.

Get caught looking glamorous this holiday season


(ARA) - While the holiday season is one of the most joyous times of the year, it can also be one of the busiest. Days (and nights) are filled with shopping, cooking, gift wrapping and of course celebrating at holiday parties with family and friends.



So wherever the holiday season may take you, it is always important to get caught looking your absolute best.



"You don't want to be caught off guard when you bump into someone while you're doing last-minute holiday shopping," says beauty expert Polly Blitzer. "If you make a habit of using the right beauty products from brands women trust - I love COVERGIRL, Pantene, Olay and Clairol - you'll look good day or night, no matter where you're going, and no matter what you're doing."



Now here are some more tips from Polly to help you get caught looking glamorous:



* Update your wardrobe with a few simple items for a new glam look at each gathering. Start with a simple dress (a new little black dress is usually the most versatile) and then accessorize with scarves, jewelry, shoes and handbags. One dress can be worn to many soirees just by switching up the accents; this way, you won't have to spend a lot of money on several outfits.



* Puffiness and dark circles under your eyes don't mix well with the stilettos and sequins you plan to wear to the season's hottest party. So try Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Eye Roller to reduce under eye puffiness in 30 seconds and look fresh and radiant all season long.



* Foundation is the first step in creating a flawless look, so make sure to pick a product that provides adequate coverage, but also goes on sheer. COVERGIRL's Simply Ageless Foundation provides a flawless finish without settling into fine lines and wrinkles throughout the day. It also goes on sheer, making imperfections seem to disappear while improving skin condition over time.



* Don't show up at the party with naked nails - head out to a salon or invite a friend over for a manicure. Smooth cuticles, buff rough nail edges, moisturize frequently and paint them with a neutral color that will work with many of your holiday styles.



* To ensure you're not looking dreary like the winter weather, dial up your hair's color and shine with Clairol Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy. It gives hair high gloss, high shine and gorgeous color in just 10 minutes.



* And finally, don't hide behind your dry, frizzy locks when the cameras start flashing. Pantene Pro-V Restore Beautiful Lengths Shine Enhance Replenishing Mask has an advanced formula to treat rough, dull hair and will leave your tresses looking and feeling smooth and silky.



"Most importantly, don't forget to turn on your brilliant smile and rock your look with confidence every time you walk out the door," says Blitzer.



For more tips on how to get caught looking glamorous this holiday season, go to www.musthaveits.com.