BellaSugar

Definition: Titanium Dioxide

BellaSugar — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:00:36 -0700

Titanium dioxide is a mineral that is commonly found in food coloring, toothpaste, paint, and sunblock. It absorbs UV light at a high capacity, it doesn't break down in the heat of the sun, it's gentle on the skin without leaving white traces and it creates a physical barrier against rays making it a sunblock, not just a sunscreen. Therefore it is often present in SPF for children and those with sensitive skin. Also, since it is encapsulated inside of a silicone molecule, the application is smooth and lightweight.

However, there is controversy surrounding titanium dioxide because of its possible link to cancer in humans. The argument for it is that it still blocks cancer-causing UVA and UVB rays, making it safer to use than nothing at all. For those of you who are looking for a titanium-dioxide free sunscreen until more conclusive evidence is released, check out these options.

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Face It, Your Skin's Already Covered in Acid

BellaSugar — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 07:00:31 -0700

How much do you know about that nice coating of acid on your skin? (Yes, I'm serious.) As it turns out, the outer layers of skin are about as acidic as a bowl of crushed tomatoes! The acid is produced when enzymes break down fat-like molecules in skin cells, called phospholipids, into smaller acid-tipped fat molecules called fatty acids. Add to that normal perspiration, made up of mostly fat and fatty acids, and these mild chemicals mixed with warmth and air exposure can corrode metals like 14-karat gold, sterling silver, and this aluminum keyboard.

Want to learn some beauty ingredients that can make this worse and where these smudges actually come from? Find out while we get all Mr. Wizard in here.

Doing Drugstore: Burt's Bees Lifeguard's Choice

BellaSugar — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:00:05 -0800

An oldie but goodie, this Burt's Bees lip balm blasts me back to Winter trips with friends and family where there was always a chill in the air. Now that I'm planning to head up to Tahoe this season, I picked up a tube at my local drugstore and put it right in my parka pocket so I'd be certain to remember it.

If you're wondering about the connection between water rescue and wintertime, I find the weatherproof Lifeguard's Choice to stand up to wind and water whether your own holiday travels take you to sun or snow. It uses nearly the same formula as their popular beeswax balm but with titanium dioxide for a bit of UV protection. After all, I can't be fumbling to reapply before every run.

Doing Drugstore: Revlon Beyond Natural

BellaSugar — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 07:00:32 -0700

I was surprised to discover that so many of you dislike Revlon. I'm a huge fan of the brand's nail polish, and now that Gucci Westman works there, things are looking up.

Last time I went to Walgreens, I picked up two items from the Beyond Natural collection: the Skin Matching Makeup ($13.99) and Protective Liptint ($8.49). All of the colors in this collection are on the natural side - lots of earth tones, partying like Al Gore in 2004 - and both of the products I tried have SPF 15. So far, so good.

For the full review, read more.

So, just like Almay's Smart Shade concealer, the Skin Matching Makeup has a color-changing formula. It comes out of the tube white, then changes color when blended. I wish companies would stop trying to trick consumers by implying that these chameleon products will magically match your skin, but that and a dollar will buy a cup of truck-stop coffee. Putting the presto change-o aspect of it aside, this is a great tinted moisturizer. It provides full-spectrum protection thanks to titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, but it doesn't have even a hint of the evil white streakiness that can show up with those ingredients. And although it doesn't provide much coverage, the color itself is free of the pink undertones that ruin so many drugstore formulations.

As for the Protective Liptint? It has a smooth, lightweight formula that left my lips feeling soft, but I chose the wrong color. I expected Rosy to be rather pink, but instead it's a too-bright coral that makes me feel like Blanche Devereaux. Next time, I'll try a more neutral shade. Overall, though, I'm pleased with these products; they're great for low-maintenance Summer style.

Coming Soon: Prescriptives All Skins Mineral Makeup SPF 15

BellaSugar — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:00:03 -0700

Prescriptives is getting ready to release its first ever, vitamin and gemstone-enriched loose powder called All Skins Mineral Makeup SPF 15 ($32.50). Available in July, this medium-coverage foundation contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to ensure that you are both UVA and UVB protected. It's also formulated with mattifying agents to absorb oil, sweat and stickiness during the humid summer months. Lastly, it's water-resistant and free of oils, talc and fragrances.

The gemstones (rose quartz, amethyst and calcite) also give the powder a little bit of sheen, which helps from making your skin look too dry. The powder itself is finely-milled and when you press down, it feels as soft as silk. I've tried it in Warm Light, which is too dark for my fair skin, but it's going to match perfectly after a few self-tanner applications.

Applying it is easy, too. Just tap a little bit into the cap, dip the new Round Buff Brush ($30) in the powder, give it a quick blow to remove any excess powder, and use a circular motion to apply it all over your face. Concentrate on your t-zone and any other oily areas. All Skins Mineral Makeup will be available in 18 shades and claims to be suitable for all skin types. Think you'd like to try it?

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Why To Wear Sunblock in 2008 (And How to Make It Easy)

BellaSugar — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 08:00:51 -0800

I know, I know-it's weird to be talking about sunblock in January. And yet, when you think about it, there's no better time. The absolute best thing you can do for your skin this year is to start wearing SPF every single day. Don't believe me? Well, let me tell you a little story.

In high school, I worked at a beachside shop. One day, two sisters came in to try on swimsuits. One looked like a high schooler, and the other looked about 26. When they came to the checkout counter, the older sister opened her wallet. "That's really nice of you to buy your sister a swimsuit," I said. Both sisters started laughing, because they weren't sisters-they were mother and daughter. Crazy! When I asked the mother how she looked so young, she said, "Well, I've been wearing sunblock every day since I was a teenager."

Look, there's no other way to put it: The sun will make you look older. It won't if you wear sunblock. Wear it every day, and you'll prevent most of the spots and wrinkles associated with aging. And on a less frivolous note, you'll be maintaining the health of your skin by minimizing the risk of UV-related cancers such as melanoma. Summing up, then: Wearing sunblock keeps you looking young and prevents cancer. Skipping it... doesn't. Seems like a simple choice, right?

For tips on how to make wearing sunblock a habit you'll easily keep, read more.

Read the label
Look for a sunblock with SPF 15 or 30, and look for a broad-spectrum product that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the ones that cause your skin to age more quickly, while UVB rays are potentially cancer-causing. Also, look for ingredients like Mexoryl, octocrylene, titanium dioxide, Helioplex, and zinc oxide-all of which are ingredients that won't break down in the sun.

Use a sunblock that's also a moisturizer
Simplify your morning routine by using a combination product. I don't recommend relying on a SPF-infused foundation or a primer alone. Instead, look for a moisturizer that's also a sunblock. I've tried dozens, but I always come back to Anthelios SX ($29). The lightweight lotion sinks into your skin quickly, doesn't leave any weird white residue, and isn't greasy.

Try it for two weeks
If you're not used to wearing sunblock, stick a Post-It note on your bathroom mirror. (If you really want to be nutty, print out this picture as a reminder of why you're doing this.) After two weeks of daily sunblock application, I bet you'll find it becomes a habit.

Be patient
Sunblock is one of those beauty products that doesn't reveal its full benefits immediately. But with constant use, it'll really begin to pay off when you're in your late 20s and 30s. And even if you're already at that age-or past it!-you'd be surprised to see what a difference it can still make into the decades to come. You'll have to trust me on this, but I promise you won't regret the sunblock.

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SPF For Your Skin Type: Normal Skin

BellaSugar — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 08:56:59 -0700

Welcome back to my five-part series, SPF For Your Skin Type. Today we'll dip into sunscreens specific to normal skin. As you know, having normal skin means that your complexion is clear, the texture is a little bit dewy and the under-tones are pinkish and glowy. You, my dears, are the luckiest of the bunch since most sunscreens are suitable for your skin. As for the rest of you with oily, dry or sensitive skin, check out parts I, II and III for sunscreen suggestions for you.

Kinerase Cream with SPF 30 ($135) is made from a mixture of titanium dioxide and encapsulated ethylhexyl methoxycinnimate, both of which keep skin protected from UV rays without that thick white chalky coloring that other high-protection sunscreens have.

We know that Courteney Cox is a huge fan of this line, and have you seen her fabulous skin lately? She's definitely doing something right. For best results, use in the morning only.

For two more sunscreens for normal skin, read more

SkinMedica Daily Sun Protection for Faces SPF 20 ($30.40) is a non-oily, full spectrum facial sunscreen that is formulated with clear zinc oxide to reflect UVA and UVB sun, as well as vitamins A, C & E to help fight signs of aging.

Zia Natural Ultimate Age-Defying Solar Care Face SPF30 ($16.95) is a great high-performance sunscreen since it is both water- and sweat-resistant. It is oil-free, and it goes on smooth and never feels sticky. It is made from a blend of green tea, ginseng and vitamin E so it helps repair the skin from sun damage while also protecting it from both UVA and UVB rays.

SPF For Your Skin Type: Oily Skin

BellaSugar — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 09:40:06 -0700

Hey everybody! Welcome to Beach Week on BellaSugar. Since we all love and adore then sun, but understand just how dangerous its powerful rays are to our skin, we've got to play on the offense. Take precautions when going to the beach, pool or playing outside this summer and slather on the appropriate sunscreen for your skin type.

In this first installment of SPF For Your Skin Type, I've collected a few different sunscreens that are best suited for oily skin. The challenge here was finding products that don't include common SPF ingredients such as zinc oxide, which can clog your pores and cause a breakout. But have no fear, we've found a few that'll do the trick to keep your skin safe in the summer sun!

Dermatalogica Oil Free Matte Block SPF 20 ($45) is a special kind of sunscreen formulated to absorb already existing as well as any new oils on your skin to create a matte finish. It's oil-free, color-free and fragrance free so it won't irritate your skin, and it's also made with green tea to help soothe and calm any special attention areas. Apply liberally and thoroughly to your face before exposure to the sun.

For two more sunscreens for oily skin, read more

Peter Thomas Roth Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Sunblock SPF30 ($8) is a fragrance-free, ultra-light dry and non-greasy sunscreen spray that absorbs quickly. And it's got a fab mess-free spray nozzle, which is always handy at the beach. It is formulated with lots of anti-oxidants, vitamins A & E and Parsol 1789r (which protects against UVA and UVB ray penetration). It won't clog your pores, and it's titanium dioxide and zinc oxide free!

SmartShield SPF 30 Sunscreen Gel ($8.95) has a an alcohol base which creates a cooling sensation on the skin. It's made with aloe vera to moisturize and heal, and it's also fragrance-free, waterproof (for up to 80 min), and it won't clog pores-which makes it great for those with oily and acne prone skin.

Brand-New Brand: La Bella Donna

BellaSugar — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 04:22:22 -0700

When I first read about La Bella Donna in a magazine, the mineral based high end cosmetics line really caught my eye. After doing some research on their website, I've learned all about the ins and outs of this pioneer mineral cosmetics line. Created by the beautiful mother - daughter pair Kathy and Nicole Tracy, they believe that minerals are exceptional for the health and beauty of your skin.

Minerals are healing agents, they're hypoallergenic, they provide excellent coverage and they offer sun protection. La Bella Donna is proud to say that they are made purely from four major minerals: micronized titanium dioxide (sun block SPF 20), iron oxides (color source), bismuth oxychloride (anti-inflammatory) and zinc oxide (soothes the skin). The line is sold in about 300 luxurious spas and retail locations nationwide.

The collection includes a full range of: face, cheeks, eyes, lips, brushes, a primer and even a product for men! Minerals for Men is waterproof, contains SPF 20, isn't greasy and is totally invisible.

Their bestselling products include glacial colours, a face luminizer in a lip sheer container and candlelight cream colour which is a gloss/brightener for your face.

However, their most notable bestseller is a primer called co-exist. This is a gel-creme that co-exists beautifully with their loose mineral foundation. It also helps build up the moisture barrier in your skin which dissipates with age. Enjoy, I think La Bella Donna is bellissima!