New documentary exposes emotional issues that come with dark skin

African American women have often had to endure hardships and racism due to the color of their skin. Unfortunately, this has lead to many young black women growing up with issues regarding their skin color. The website Fashion Bomb reports that a new documentary is coming out to address this issue and promote confidence in African American skin.

The documentary is called Dark Girls and explores the complex emotions that African American women have about their skin tone. The trailer for the film can be found on many different websites, including The Frisky. The film is comprised of interviews with black women on how they feel about their skin and what they have experienced over the years.

In the trailer for the film, one young girl is asked to identify who is the "smartest" child out of pictures of other children. The girl, who is African American, chose the white child simply because she is white. This shows the serious issues regarding skin tone that still exist today.

Ethnic women of all skin colors deserve to feel confident and beautiful in their skin. Skin care products for black skin are designed to boost black skin's natural beauty.

Young people have a growing risk of developing skin cancer

Many young people believe that wearing sunscreen is not as important for them as it is for babies and older adults. A Canadian news source recently disproved this theory by reporting that skin cancer patients are getting younger. 

CJAD news spoke to a dermatologist Ari Demerjian who said that twenty years ago the average person diagnosed skin cancer was around 50 years of age. Now, it is normal to see a 30-year-old with the condition.

The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that more than two million people are diagnosed with the disease each year. The organization also reports that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer for people between the ages of 25 and 29 years old.

There are many ways to protect one's self against this disease. Using an African American skin care product with SPF and antioxidant extracts for added sun protection is one way ethnic women can help keep skin healthy and beautiful.  

Skin care tips from older celebs

Ever wonder how those older celebrities manage to look like they haven't aged a day? While many turn to plastic surgery, some use natural solutions to aging. The Mirror recently reported on some age-defying tips from the rich and famous.

One tip the news provider shared was to be sure to drink enough fluids, especially water and green tea. Green tea has a high concentration of antioxidants to keep skin healthy and cleanse the body of toxins that come from pollution and chemicals.

The Mirror also recommended getting regular exercise. The author suggested trying out an interesting class to make a workout routine more fun, such as kickboxing or yoga.

Finally, the news source stressed the importance of avoiding too much sun exposure. The National Health Institute reports that sunlight is a major cause of aging and increased appearance of wrinkles.

For ethnic women, using a skin care product for black skin with added SPF and green tea extract can help protect the skin while giving it an even tone and healthy glow.  

New York's parks are taking a stand against skin cancer

Skin cancer is one of the more common forms of cancer in the U.S., and also one of the most preventable forms of the disease. For ethnic women, using a skin care product for black skin with added SPF for sun protection is one way to possibly lower one's risk of developing the condition.

In New York City new measures are being implemented to help people avoid sun exposure. Thanks to a grant from the American Academy of Dermatology, many of the cities parks will now have shade structures that individuals can sit under and avoid UV rays.

Additionally, structures will come with signs that teach people about the importance of skin care, especially in the summer months. Among the recommendations the sign will make is to wear sunscreen, wear protective clothing and seek shade often.

The Skin Cancer Foundation warns people to seek shade under a structure rather than a tree to ensure they are truly hidden from sun exposure.

Broadway actress Jane White exuded confidence in her own skin

The New York Times recently ran a profile on Jane White, an African American theatre actress who overcame adversity to become a successful performer. The daughter of a civil rights activist, White experienced racism due to the color and tone of her skin.

“I’ve just always been too ‘white’ to be ‘black’ and too ‘black’ to be ‘white,’ which, you know, gets to you after a while, particularly when the roles keep passing you by,” said White, quoted by the news source.

White didn't let these obstacles hold her down, and over the years she proved herself to be an incredible talent. She eventually learned to embrace the color of her skin, and refused to allow directors or producers disguise her as a race that she was not.

Playbill reported that in 1979 White starred in her own one-woman show, where she discussed her struggles and the importance of being confident in herself. The actress passed away on July 24th at the age of 88 after years of entertaining audiences.

Ethnic women looking to feel as confident in their skin as White should consider using skin care products for black skin to give their appearance a healthy glow.

Green tea protects the skin while potentially preventing cancer

For years, there have been studies about the benefits of green tea. From its possible cancer protecting abilities to its benefits with weight loss, it's clear that green tea is a unique kind of drink. What many people may not realize is the potential of green tea extract to protect the skin.

According to WebMD, an article published in the Archives of Dermatology found that skin care products that contain green tea extract can be beneficial to the skin.

"Of all the antioxidants known to mankind, the components of green tea are the most potent," said Hasan Mukhtar, PhD, quoted by the medical website. "Antioxidants are those agents which can counteract the effects of oxidant or 'free' radicals."

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that green tea extract has been used to help treat a variety of cancers including breast and skin. The organization reports that they support research to determine all of the potential benefits of green tea.

Ethnic women looking to get some of the benefits of this beverage while giving their skin a healthy glow should consider using African American skin care products with green tea extract. 

No matter what age, beauty is still important

Older women want to look their best, too. Just because a woman's getting older doesn't mean they are giving up on beauty. A recent study conducted at Baylor University found that greater body satisfaction in older adults reduces symptoms of depression.

The study found that increasing activity and taking care of appearance, along with having positive health benefits, can also improve a person's mood.

"It was interesting that even though body appearance satisfaction seems to be more important for younger populations, especially women, it is still important and relevant among older adults," said study author Dr. Renee Umstattd, assistant professor of health education at Baylor.

Although previous research had shown that as people age, bodily function becomes more important than appearance, these findings suggest that along with joint function, what individuals look like is still a key part of improving confidence and decreasing depression.

Older ethnic women interested in maintaining their glowing skin should consider using African American skin care products to boost their confidence at any age.  

Red wine may protect skin against sun damage

Recently, there have been reports regarding grapes and how they can protect the skin with the antioxidants they contain. Now, research is showing that drinking red wine in moderation can not only reduce the risk of skin cancer, but also help protect the skin against sunburn.

CBS news reports that the flavonoids found in red wine help stop the death of skin cells. The compounds work by blocking chemical changes that occur when skin is exposed to the sun.

"This study supports the idea of using these products (red wine) to protect the skin from cell damage and death caused by solar radiation," study director Dr. Marta Cascante, a biochemist at the University of Barcelona, quoted by CBS.

The Mayo Clinic states that red wine also contains a compound called resveratrol which has been proven to reduce blood clots and lower "bad" cholesterol.

For years, red wine has been touted as healthy due to the high concentration of antioxidants in the beverage. Ethnic women looking for the skin-protecting benefits of wine without the alcohol should consider using skin care products for black skin with antioxidant extracts such as green tea.  

Rihanna named woman of the year

Rihanna has perfected the art of looking great while performing as well as on the red carpet. The singer was recently named woman of the year in Italian Vouge for her talent and charity work.

The website NZCity reports that the singer was also recognized for her ability to overcome adversity in her personal life. Between the drama with her ex-boyfriend Chris Brown to her father's drug addiction, Rihanna has had to struggle to maintain a positive attitude, which she does with grace and poise.

“Independent, energetic, the young Robyn Rihanna Fenty (only 23) is our woman of the year and not just by virtue of numbers and figures but also, and foremost, for her kind and fighting spirit. The same spirit that brought her from Barbados to the top of the music charts achieving a career which she has forged and mastered completely by herself." The magazine was quoted as saying,

The singer recently told Glamour magazine that she loves a challenge, and is never afraid to tackle adversity in her career or personal life. African American women who want to achieve Rihanna's look should consider trying skin care products for black skin.

Confident actress Sophia Vergara flaunts her curves

Hispanic actress Sophia Vergara has been gaining a lot of attention lately for her curves, and that's fine with her. The Modern Family star spoke to People magazine about being a sexy symbol and why she's proud of being known for her body.

The 39-year-old says that her looks have helped her career, and she's happy to be recognized for all of the hard work she has done to keep herself healthy and in shape. She told People that she lives by the age-old old motto if you've got it, flaunt it.

Vergara also described her beauty routine to the magazine, and explained that she believes in the importance of skin care.

"Everything in moderation – not too much food, not too much exercise," she explains. "And, of course, wearing sun block, doing the things your dermatologist tells you to do – that helps with the aging process."

The National Institutes of Health reports that sunlight is a major cause of skin again and recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Ethnic Women who want to protect their skin should consider using African American ethnic skin care products with SPF so they can keep their skin healthy and maybe gain some Vergara's confidence along the way. 

Diamond and ruby facial for the extremely wealthy

Ladies, ever wish to live like the celebrities do and go out and buy diamonds and rubies? What about using these precious gems for skin care? One new celebrity trend is using diamonds as part of a skin care treatment, reports the Daily Mail. 

According to the news provider, rubbing diamonds on the skin can produce an antioxidant effect. Some celebrities, including Mila Kunis, have been spotted getting facials that involve this fancy treatment, which carries a $7,000 price tag.

The procedure is called the HD Diamond and Ruby Peel, and Forbes reports that this is at least the second time that Kunis has been spotted receiving the treatment. The magazine also offered a list of some other luxury skin care options for the rich and famous including an Evian bath that costs 5,000 dollars.

Ethnic women looking to achieve glowing skin without spending thousands of dollars should consider skin care products for black skin that contain natural antioxidant extracts.  

Snail slime may be the new mud

The first time people heard that taking a bath in mud could help exfoliate the skin, many thought that it was insane. After a few years though, people began paying hundreds of dollars for mud treatments and even buying soaps made out of it. Now, according to MSNBC, there may be an even stranger skin care product on the market - snail slime.

Although still not very popular in the U.S., products containing the guts and slime of snails have been regularly sold in South America and South Korea. Apparently this has been going on since the mid 90's, when people began to notice that handling snails was helping their skin feel softer. MSNBC reports that snails' secretions may protect against UV rays and eliminate dead skin cells.

The PBS program NOVA reported on this subject and claimed that the slime works by being a yield-stress fluid. Meaning that depending on how much pressure is put on it it can act as a liquid or a solid such as glue.

Notready to have a beauty routine that includes slime? That's fine, ethnic women looking to exfoliate and protect their skin against UV rays can use African American skin care products that are already on the market with added SPF and no snail extract.  

Grape compound may protect skin against the sun

For ladies who are interested in protecting their ethnic skin naturally, there may be a new tool in the battle against damage from the sun - grapes. Researchers at the University of Barcelona have found a compound in grapes that may protect against the sun's ultraviolet rays.

These findings add grapes to the list of fruits that contain sun-protecting properties, which also includes pomegranate, found in some skin care products for black skin. The compound, called flavonoid, has already been shown to have other health benefits, particularly for brain health.

These results could lead to the development of new skin care products that contain grape extract.

"This study supports the idea of using these products to protect the skin from cell damage and death caused by solar radiation, as well as increasing our understanding of the mechanism by which they act," said researcher Marta Cascante.

Until those products are developed, there are plenty of other natural African American skin care products on the market that contain healthy extracts of fruit and green tea for sun protection. 

New skin care brochures available in Spanish

The Association for the Advancement of Wound Care (AAWC) has recently released educational brochures in Spanish about the importance of skin care and wound treatment. In the past, these brochures have been widely used by doctors and caregivers, now they will be available in Spanish to better serve the Hispanic population. 

One of the pamphlets, called The Skin You're In (La Piel en la Que Estás) details how to protect skin against environmental factors such as sun and wind. The association released a statement about the importance of these brochures.

"The brochures are invaluable, containing useful information for those who suffer not only with a skin issue but also with a low budget. Many clinics and hospitals display them within their facilities. The great part is that while they can be purchased from AAWC, the brochures are also available to download and print free of charge without permission," states Terry Treadwell, M.D., FACS and AAWC President.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau there are and estimated 48.4 million Hispanic people in the U.S. The only country with a larger population of Hispanics is Mexico.

Learning about proper skin care is important for people from every culture. Women looking to better understand skin care should research ethnic skin care products, which can help protect the skin with SPF and antioxidants while keeping it looking great.  

Uncovering the myths of skin cancer

Although there has been a lot of talk about skin cancer lately, many people still can't differentiate between facts and fiction about the disease.

Recently, Medscape News ran an article explaining some of the myths about sun cancer, to help people gain a better understanding of how to protect themselves from this usually preventable form of cancer.

One of the myths they corrected was that darker-skinned people do not need sunscreen. Medscape's expert stated that increased skin pigmentation is equivalent to an SPF protection of 3, which is not enough to protect against skin cancer.

Another theory they explored was that people do not have to wear sunscreen in the car. While windshields may provide mild UVB protection, most side windows do not. Therefore, it's important to wear sunscreen in cars to to protect exposed arms.

The New York Times reports 74 percent of skin cancer tumors are found on the left side of people's bodies. This statistic has been connected to sun exposure while driving.

Ethnic women looking to protect themselves from sun damage should consider using an African American skin care product with added SPF.

Website offers tips for office beauty

Ladies, trying to look flawless at the office can be difficult. Skincare-News.com recently offered some tips on classy and affordable ways to look good at work.

First, the website recommended wearing hair in a high bun. Along with looking put together and professional, this look can help keep the back of the neck cool while working in the hot summer months. Next, they suggested wearing fun shades of eyeshadow such as green or aquamarine. As long as the look is toned down enough for the daytime, there's no reason not to be creative with the color.

For the face Skincare News suggested wearing a barely-there blush to give cheeks as splash of color without looking overwhelming. It's important to match skin tones when it comes to foundation, ethnic women should consider using black skin care products made especially to match darker skin tones.

Finally, the website recommended a light or nude tone for the lips rather than a dark red. Wearing a lip balm can provide and even more subtle look.

WebMD warns against using sunscreen for the body but neglecting the lips. They suggest wearing a lip balm that contains SPF to protect against harmful UVB rays that come from the sun. Remember to re-apply every two hours planning to be outside for long periods of time. 

Black women's leadership symposium to be held in Chicago

This year's Executive Leadership Council Black Women's Leadership Symposium will be held in Chicago on July 19th. The event will host 125 black women managers who have become pioneers in their fields.

The theme of this year's event is the impact African American women have on public policy. Topics will include the media's influence on politics, along with black women in politics and their influence of on the creation of new legislation.

The goal is to encourage discussions about how to increase African American women's participation in the political scene and how to create more black female executives.

The event will offer a free panel that is open to the press on black women on public policy and will feature four female business leaders in the black community. The panel will be targeting junior to mid-level African american women executives who have potential to become leaders in their companies.

Alaina Beverly of The Raben Group will also host a panel called "Have You Seen Her?" a discussion on black women in politics today.

African American women are changing the business and political scenes and now have the perfect make up to help them look great while doing it. Products for black skin can help give women that perfect skin tone to take on any challenge with confidence, knowing they look professional.

What does all that SPF talk really mean?

With all of the sunscreen options out there, it's important to understand label terminology. Summertime can be particularly dangerous for the skin, especially for African American skin, as the National Cancer Institute reports that African Americans have higher instances of skin cancer death due to undiagnosed melanomas.

Experts at The Mayo Clinic offered their guidance on how to select a sunscreen that is safe and effective. Most importantly, they explained what SPF means, and if having a high SPF makes a difference regarding how well the sunscreen works, the most common question people have regarding suntan lotion.

SPF stands for "sun protection factor" and it can be very tricky to determine how accurate a lotion's SPF number is. According to dermatologist Lawrence Gibson, M.D., a higher SPF may not necessarily mean better protection.

"Many dermatologists recommend using a product with an SPF of 30 or more. However, no one really agrees on a 'good' SPF number. A sunscreen with an SPF of 60 might be better than one with an SPF of 30, but not necessarily," says Gibson on the Mayo Clinic Website.

African American women looking to protect their skin should consider skin care products for black women with added SPF. 

Introducing the beautiful and talented Ezperanza Spalding

African American musician Ezperanza Spalding shocked the country at the Grammy awards earlier this year by winning "best new artist" over the much-touted Justin Beiber.

The Prague Post recently ran a profile on the jazz singer, portraying her as a talented and bright young woman who is bringing influences from chamber music and old school jazz to modern music.

Spalding's talent was recognized at an early age, and at 20 she was named the youngest ever professor at the Berklee College of Music. On her student profile from 2004, executive vice president Gary Burton praised her unique abilities.

"She has a great time feel, she can confidently read the most complicated compositions, and she communicates her upbeat personality in everything she plays," he says. "She is definitely headed for a great career, and it will be soon."

Along with her talent, Spalding has also been pointed out for her unique beauty and style. While everyone might not be able to have her musical ability, any ethnic woman can help their skin glow like Spalding's by using skin care products for black skin.  

Jill Scott inspires confidence and pride in being a woman

R&B singer and actress Jill Scott is talented, confident and never afraid to speak her mind. The Chicago Tribune recently profiled the African American singer, highlighting her remarkable ability to not let anything hold her back from being her true self, even during a performance at the White House.

At a recent White House event Scott preformed the poem "Womanifesto," making bold statements about the plight of being a woman.

“A woman is more than the sum of her parts,” Scott told the Tribune. “So I had an opportunity to present some work at the White House, I chose not just to talk about the sky, the planet, love or heartache. I wanted to actually be there, to place a mark on that moment.”

Billboard magazine reports that after going through two painful break-ups Scott channeled her emotions into her music to produce her new album, The Light of the Sun.

Women who want to gain Scott's confidence should consider starting with skin care products for black skin. Designed specifically for ethnic women, African American skin care products can help you feel confident on the outside and inside.

How soy can benefit the skin

For years there has been research conducted on the health benefits of soy. Along with being a good source of antioxidants and protein, soy can also be beneficial to the skin.

According the the Mayo Clinic, soy may improve the signs of sun damage to the skin. This includes discoloration, blotchiness and texture. Though more research needs to be conducted, there has also been preliminary evidence that shows that soy may help with skin aging by possibly reducing wrinkles.

The National Institutes of Health reports that a study conducted on hairless mice found that treating the rodents' skin with soy resulted in the skin having a better overall appearance and less wrinkles.

The study states in the conclusion, "it appears that isoflavones (soy) had an anti-aging effect on the UV-damaged hairless mice model."

Though more research needs to be conducted to determine the anti-aging effect that soy has on human skin, these results are promising. Women looking to improve their skin and minimize the appearance of black skin dark spots should consider using an African American skin care products that contains soy. 

Magazine offers simple tips for healthy skin

Ladies, looking for the secret to healthy, beautiful skin? Along with using skin care products for black skin with antioxidant extracts there are a few simple rules to follow to help get that healthy glow.

Shape magazine recently featured an article on some natural ways to keep skin looking healthy that include a few simple lifestyle suggestions.

The first suggestion the magazine made was to stay out of the sun. Shape claims that overexposure to the sun can clog pores and cause acne. Next, they recommended eating healthy and staying active to help regulate hormones that may cause breakouts and other skin problems to develop.

WebMD states that using moisturizers can help protect skin from becoming dry and flaky. They also suggest skin care products containing vitamins and antioxidants that can protect skin against wrinkles and even possibly help reduce the appearance of wrinkles that are already present.  

Sephora launches iPad app offering a new way to shop

Cosmetic provider Sephora recently announced that they're launching a new application for iPad users. The application is currently available to be downloaded onto any iPad.

The application will include regular updates on beauty news, including any posts on the Sephora Facebook and Twitter. It will also feature the company's newly updated YouTube channel, which will provide videos on new makeup trends and products.

The Sephora app will also have a shopping sections, where users can buy their favorite cosmetics online. There will also be an iPad-only catalogue that will talk about products that consumers can't find anywhere else.

“We’re extremely proud of Sephora’s App for iPad and consider it an immersive, educational and entertaining beauty retail experience,” said Bridget Dolan, Vice President of Interactive Media.

The application can be found on the Apple store website and can be downloaded for free.

Ethnic women interested in getting some beauty tips should consider looking to companies that specialize in skin products for black skin, such as RX for Brown Skin. These companies design products specifically for ethnic women, and can provide a unique perspective on black skin care.  

More education needed to prevent skin cancer

Minorities have a history of not getting treated for skin cancer while it's still in its early stages. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, African Americans and Asian Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer in later stages, when there are less treatment options. CNN recently reported on this problem.

According to the news provider, it is a common and dangerous misconception that darker skinned people do not have a risk of skin cancer. Dermatologist Heather Woolery Lloyd explained that melanoma can be very treatable in it's early stages, but it becomes more difficult to treat over time.

"The need for proper education and skin cancer screenings is crucial. Increased awareness this will ensure that the African American and Hispanic population doesn't fall victim to a very preventable disease," said Lloyd.

The Skin Cancer foundation reports that the number of women under age 40 diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma (one of the common forms of skin cancer) has more than doubled in the last 30 years. Ethnic women looking to possibly reduce their risk of skin cancer should consider using an African American skin care product with SPF for sun protection.  

Hyaluronic acid's benefits on the skin

Hyaluronic acid is present in a variety of skin care products for black skin. Many women may not understand what this particular substance is or the benefits that it can have on the skin. The Cleveland Clinic website details the effects of skin products containing hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic acid is a polymer that is found naturally in the skin cells that reduce with age. Preserving this substance has been connected to having younger looking, firmer skin. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times it's weight in water, making it a natural skin moisturizer. The substance stays on the surface of the skin, moisturizing the top layer, rather than just being absorbed immediately after being applied.

The website also mentioned that loss of hyaluronic acid is one of the main causes of wrinkles, which suggests that providing the skin with more of the substance may reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

WebMD states that hyaluronic acid has also been used to treat burns and heal skin ulcers and wounds and it also acts as a cushion and lubricant in tissues in the body. 

Skin care linked to U.S. culture

Taking proper care of skin has recently been connected to becoming a part of American culture. A recent study suggested that among Latinos living in the United States, those who are more comfortable speaking English and have been in the U.S. longer are also more likely to use sunscreen on hot days.

Background information collected before the study found that skin cancer is a major concern for U.S. Latinos. According to the findings, there are 4.5 incidents of melanoma per 100,000 Latinos, which represents an increase of 28.6 percent since 1992.

Researchers found that Latinos who have been living in the U.S. for a long period of time and are confident in their understanding of the English language have a more positive association with sunscreen use than those who have not been in the country long and may not understand the language.

This suggests that a better understanding of U.S. culture and language makes it easier for immigrants to educate themselves on health matters such as skin cancer and the importance of protecting the skin against sun damage.

Sunscreen use is important for all individuals, and ethnic women looking to protect their skin should consider a skin care product for black skin with SPF.

Green tea may protect inside and out

Lately there has been a lot of talk about the health benefits of green tea. Packed with antioxidants, green tea has been shown to have a variety of possible health benefits and disease reducing properties. Recently, an article on the U.K. site iVillage discussed the possible benefits green tea can have on the skin.

According to the news source, the antioxidants in green tea help protect the body from particles associated with aging, along with damage that can be caused from sun, smoking and other pollutants that can harm the skin. The website recommends using skin care products that contain green tea extracts to remove toxins from the skin and create a smooth texture.

Discovery Health reports that antioxidants benefit the skin from the inside out, protecting in ways that sunscreen cannot. Along with protecting against toxins, antioxidants encourage tissue and cell growth, helping skin repair sun damage that has already been done.

Ladies, while going about the busy day and running into pollution from traffic, harsh sun rays and all of the other toxins that can be encountered throughout an average day, be sure to remember proper skin care. Using an African American skin care product with green tea extract can help protect the skin while keeping it radiant. 

Skin care is important for young adults

It's important to protect the skin at any age, but recent studies suggest that proper skin care is particularly important in the teens and 20s. An article in the Shreveport Times talks about the importance of skin care for young people.

According to the news provider, what young people do to their skin lasts well into adulthood, and the results are not always positive. The newspaper spoke to dermatologist Daniel Hogan who gave his opinion on skin care at an early age.

"I think it is important for the young people to know that some of these effects from the sun show up years later," he told the Times. "Some of the studies show that the sun damage you get in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood is the one that causes the most damage and increases your risk of skin cancer the most — particularly melanoma."

The Rhode Island Cancer Council reports that although melanoma in young adults used to be extremely rare, it has been growing and is becoming one of the most common cancers among people under 40. This could be for a variety of reasons, among them are the increased use of tanning beds and a lack of proper sun-protective clothing and sunscreen.

Women looking to protect their skin and get that sun-kissed glow at the same time should consider an African American skin care product with SPF for protection against the sun. 

Antioxidants shown to protect the skin and the body

Ladies, before running off to the beach this summer, be sure to remember to protect your skin. Along with African American skin care products, there are also foods that you can eat to protect skin against sun damage.

According to a Fox News report, foods rich in antioxidants may help protect skin aganist harmful UVA and UVB rays. Green tea, along with supporting the immune system and helping with weight control, can also protect skin cells. The news source explains that antioxidants called called polyphenol catechins aid in waring off harmful sun rays.

Other nutrient-rich foods the news provider mentioned include cocoa- which can protect skin and may lower blood pressure, ripe red tomatoes, blue and purple berries and colored peppers. All of these foods have the potential to provide skin care protection because they contain antioxidants

The National Institute of Health states that antioxidants protect the body against "free radicals." Free radicals are a type of molecule that occurs when the body is exposed to substances like tobacco smoke and radiation and also when food is broken down. They can cause serious health risk such as heart disease and cancer.

Women looking to protect their skin while obtaining that sun-kissed glow should consider black skin care products containing green tea extract.

Why do we really buy cosmetics?

Do cosmetics make us feel better on the inside as they're helping us look good on the outside? A recent study suggests that some people might be buying cosmetics for emotional reasons.

Scientists at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) surveyed 355 women and asked them questions regarding the emotional and physical functions that cosmetics serve as well as how satisfied they were with the products. They found that consumers were most satisfied when the product helped them feel better about themselves and brought about positive emotions.

"The study shows that both the emotional and utility aspect of cosmetic brands have a significant impact on consumer satisfaction, but that the emotional component has a greater effect", said Vanessa Apaolaza, a researcher from UPV and lead author of the study.

Researchers found that the largest emotional component involved in cosmetics buying was the positive feeling that comes from successful social interactions while wearing the products.

African American skin care products can help women boost their self-esteem by letting them know that they're buying a product that not only helps them look great, but contains healthy antioxidants to protect their skin.  

Protecting skin may benefit the immune system

Looking for any more reasons to keep skin healthy? New research suggests that dendritic cells, which are found in the skin, help the immune system function properly.

The study, which can be found in the journal Immunity, sought to explore immune response and may aid in the development of vaccinations and treatments for autoimmune diseases.

Scientitsts found that dendritic cells identify molecules that the immune system will respond to and alert other cells so that they can react. This is important because many immune cells cannot identify these molecules and need the dendritic cells to recognize them in order to start protecting the body.

"Our work demonstrates that dendritic cells in the skin promote distinct and opposing antigen-specific responses," explains lead researcher Dr. Daniel Kaplan.

Better understanding of how the immune system works helps scientists develop treatments that can mimic the effect of the immune system and aid those who experience autoimmune disorders.

Protecting the skin has many potential benefits. Using products for black skin with SPF for sun protection can keep skin healthy and looking great.  

Pomegranate may benefit skin and cells

The website AntioxidantSkincare.com details the benefits that antioxidants can have on skin. Recently, they explained the many ways in which pomegranate extract may help the skin.

The website reports that pomegranate extract may help increase the skin's collagen production. Collagen in the skin reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and gives skin a firm and youthful appearance. The site also claims that using a skin care product containing pomegranate extract may protect skin against the damaging effects of the sun. Pomegranate has been shown to possibly boost the efficacy of SPF in the skin.

Pomegranate extract may be a good source of antioxidants. According to the National Institutes of Health, antioxidants may protect your cells from toxins produced from certain foods and environmental factors. The Mayo Clinic reports that antioxidants may also help prevent diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's disease.

Women looking to protect their skin and their bodies should consider using skin care products for black skin that contain pomegranate extract.  

Prepare for vacations with the right skin care products

Most women have a hard time packing for vacations. It can be impossible to know which accessories and how much make up to bring and trying to fit it all into a suitcase can be a nightmare.

The New Zealand Herald decided to tackle this problem by offering its readers some tips on what beauty supplies to take while traveling.

The news source recommended bringing an all purpose balm for lips, sore feet and bug bites. The also suggested waterproof eyeliner, mascara and a light moisturizer. Don't bring any make ups or creams that are too thick or heavy, especially if traveling to a tropical climate.

Finally, the Herald warned its readers to stick with what they know. A vacation is no time to be experimenting with different skin care products, and although the hotel may offer free shampoos and lotions, its still best for women to use the products that they already know work for them.

If going to a tropical climate, The Skin Cancer foundation recommends taking sunscreen to protect against potentially harmful UV rays. On their website they have posted the new FDA regulations regarding sunscreen, which can help people decide which product is the best for them.

Ethnic women should remember to bring African American skin care products with them when traveling to keep skin looking great wherever they go.  

New hope for stopping that pesky dandruff problem

Ladies, have you ever experienced the uncomfortable feeling that comes with having dandruff and how difficult it can be to find a quality anti-dandruff product for ethnic hair? A new study being conducted at Saint Louis University (SLU) will focus on the problem of dandruff in the African American community and what the best method is to solve it.

The trial will examine African American women who wash their hair once a week or less and will compare anti-dandruff foam and ant-dandruff shampoo to determine which works best for this demographic.

Jeaneen A. Chapelle, M.D., head researcher in the study, believes current dandruff products are not specially developed to meet the needs of ethnic skin and hair.

"Dandruff is a common problem and it is possible that the most commonly prescribed treatment, an anti-fungal shampoo, is under-treating a certain population of women who do not wash their hair often enough for the medication to be effective," said Chappell on the SLU website.

The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that the best way to avoid dandruff is by paying attention to proper skin care. Ethnic women looking to avoid developing dandruff or other problems caused by oily skin should consider using black skin care products.

Doctors can catch skin cancer in early stages

Summer is a time for ladies to show off their glowing skin, but it's also a time when skin care needs to be a top priority. Detecting skin cancer early is key to successfully treatment and new research has shown that physician screening is the best way to detect melanoma in it's early stages.

In the past, patients have usually been the ones discovering the spots on their bodies that turn out to be cancerous, but research has now shown that a physician is capable of detecting melanomas in far earlier stages than a patient can. The sooner a melanoma is detected, the sooner treatment can begin and the higher a patients survival rate is.

"It is crucial to emphasize that a combined strategy of physician detection and patient participation must continue to be implemented to ensure early melanoma diagnosis," study authors concluded.

The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that ethnic women often don't recognize a melanoma until the later stages due to their darker skin tones. Women looking to prevent skin cancer should consider using a African American skin care product with SPF for protection against the sun.  

Laura Geller to be sold in ULTA locations

Cosmetics brand Laura Geller announced recently that their products will be available at over 400 ULTA stores across the country. 

Beginning in August, all Laura Geller products including foundations and makeup primer will be available at the stores. Geller's "Baked" products feature self-adjusting pigments that change to match various skin tones. The products receive their name from the unique way they are made. The liquid makeup is poured onto terracotta pans and baked for 24 hours to produce the powder.

This process helps the product adjust to work with all different skin tones, from light to dark.

"Laura Geller Makeup is about providing all women with the tools needed for an effortless, fast, fun and fresh makeup application that works no matter what their age, where they're going or what they're doing," remarks Laura Geller.

The brand will also be participating in gifts with purchase events at locations where consumers can expect to get a generous gift with their purchase.

Women looking to reduce the appearance of black skin dark spots should consider a product that will get to the root of the problem, designed specifically for African American skin.  

Love your skin tone, love your life

Embracing who you are may lead to a better life. A recent study shows that African Americans who embrace their racial identity tend to be happier. 

Michigan State University researchers surveyed African American adults and found that the ones who claimed that being black was important to them also appeared to be happier with their overall lives.

The scientists who conducted the study suggested that the positive feelings may be attributed to a strong sense of belonging. African Americans who feel a strong connection to their racial identity feel as though they are part of a group, and develop a strong sense of community. This can boost a person's self-confidence, and help them feel supported by and connected to those around them.

Lead researcher Stevie C.Y. Yap claims that this study is the first to produce these kinds of results.

"This is the first empirical study we know of that shows a relationship between racial identity and happiness," said Yap, adding, "This sense of belongingness is especially important for happiness in women."

Women looking to embrace their African American skin should consider using skin care products developed for black women. These products encourage women to feel confident and proud by creating a product geared towards their specific skin needs.  

VIVmag to feature beauty tips and Garcelle Beauvais this month

The all-digital luxury magazine VIVmag will offer helpful summer beauty tips in its July/August issue. The magazine will also feature fasionista Garcelle Beauvais who opens up to readers about her life and her struggle to overcome stereotypes as a Haitian woman living in the U.S.

Editor-in-chief Anne M. Russel said a statement that this issue with deal with important topics relevant to the summer, and also inspire readers during the hottest months.

"VIVmag is about staying beautiful, both inside and out, and cover girl Garcelle radiates confidence and beauty as she opens up about her lust for life, healing from a broken marriage, grieving for her home country of Haiti and overcoming stereotypes," said Russel.

Beauvais is no stranger to heartache, the actress divorced last year and is still recovering from the loss of her mother. She's seen as an inspiration for her ability to remain a strong and beautiful woman in the face of adversity.

“Women feel so much pressure to multitask all the time,” the actress told People magazine. “I’m trying really hard to be in the present and not be worrying so much about what I should have done or what I’m going to do.”

Women looking to get glowing skin like Garcelle Beauvais should consider using African American skin care products.  

Melanoma may be more deadly in African American skin

Skin tone is relative to the amount of melanin in the body. While this pigment does provide a modicum of protection for individuals with brown skin, skin cancer may be much more severe when it does develop in this population.

Researchers at the M.I.T. in Cambridge, Massachusetts have found that when melanoma cells are deprived of leucine, it may be lethal to these cancerous cells.

Leucine is among the nine essential amino acids that humans do not synthesize naturally, but must ingest through diet. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins used in all cellular functions. Nutrients such as amino acids are regulated by the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. When there is a low level of an amino acids, this pathway is turned off, which initiates the autophagy process.

Autophagy functions to elevate the amino acid levels by the break down of protein into its smaller constituents. However, in the absence of leucine, autophagy is not activated in melonoma cells. A nutrient shortage is registered, which results in cell death. This holds promise for therapeutic remedies.

While more melanin adds one layer of protection against the sun, compared to individuals with less pigment, the use of sunscreen for dark skinned individuals cannot be overemphasized. Dr. Susan Taylor, African American dermatologist, recommends a minimum of SPF 15 for everyday use. 

Essential tips for proper ethnic skin care

There exist many misconceptions about ethnic skin care. Whether your skin is a very dark or its tone is lighter brown, the rules of thumb are similar.

The best advice is pure and simple - choose skin care products that are designed for ethnic women. General facial care supplies may induce discoloration that may linger for months or even years. Darker skin is much more sensitive, and it can be quite reactive if treated improperly.

Another useful tip is to cleanse your face daily with ethnic skin care products. Depending on whether your skin type is oily or dry, you will need to wash it more or less frequently.

One of the most common misconceptions about darker skin is that it's not affected by the sun. While higher levels of melanin provide an additional layer of protection, skin cancer - if it develops - can be more dangerous in deeper toned skin. A minimum of SPF 15 for everyday wear is suggested by Dr. Susan Taylor, African American dermatologist.

Darker skin's sensitivity stems from not just environmental factors, but also hormonal and chemcial changes in the body. These alterations include, but are not limited to, menstruation, stress and medications.

These tips may be readily adapted to any skin care routine. Its important to concentrate on ethnic skin's unique attributes in order to care for it properly. 

Mary J. Blige's big finish at the Essence Music Festival

July 3rd, 2011 was celebrated in style at the Lousiana Superdome in New Orleans during the Essence Music Festival. Towards the latter part of the evening, half the audience had taken a seat, according to www.nola.com. However, spirited singer Mary J. Blige led the show to a strong finish after getting most of the spectators back on their feet.

Although she has a track record of success and wealth, she readily taps into her painful past with purposeful lyrics from the heart, the news source reported.

And engage the audience she did, with her glimmering tone that resonated from her voice to the goosebumps on her skin.

You, too, can experience a transformation of your own. African American and other ethnic skin can experience increased tone, firmness and brightness that boost overall glow with proper skin treatments.

Any African-American woman can shimmer as brilliantly as Blige did as she celebrated the country's 235th birthday. By using high caliber black skin care products, you'll be able to unleash your inner diva wherever you set foot. 

Hormonal disorders, like Missy Elliot's, may require extra attention to skin care for black women

Popular rapper Missy Elliot revealed to the public recently that she has been battling Grave's disease. This is an endocrine disorder that over-activates the thyroid and may increase anxiety, irritability, metabolism and affect sleep.

Although not to the same extent as Missy Elliot faces with Grave's disease, the skin of ethnic women has higher sensitivity to any type of change including that caused by hormones as well as emotional and environmental triggers.

Missy Elliot is determined to make a come back and has made a commitment to living a healthier lifestyle that includes weight loss. Hormonal disorders can wreak havoc on the skin, but even healthy women have to battle similar hurdles. High quality ethnic skin products are a good solution not just to those with hormonal disorders but also to all ethnic women.

According to African-American dermatologist Dr. Susan Taylor, brown skin is very susceptible to developing uneven skin tones that may be brought on by stress or other health issues. In addition, darker skin may be readily irritated by many skin care products. Potential ingredients to watch out for include propylene glycol, alcohol and lanolin. In order to safeguard yourself against such compounds, you may consider using ethnic skin care products.  

Beyonce chooses her own destiny...

Beyonce Knowles has been resilient through some tough trials with her record studio, as indicated by FoxNews.com. Throughout this process, she has continued to glow radiantly and has not missed a beat when it comes to shining from head to toe.

All African American women should know that to look this good requires attention to detail. They need to understand facts such as the unique nature of their skin. African American dermatologist Dr. Susan Taylor points out that ethnic skin is more susceptible to changes in the weather, environment and stress levels. These may induce changes in pigmentation.

Taylor, director of the Society Hill Dermatology in Philadelphia, believes the most common problem is pigmentation disorders, which includes discoloration, dark marks and uneven skin tone.

African American women have the power to control their own skin care destiny by selecting skin products for black women. Just like Beyonce, you too can shimmer from head to toe with confidence as you move forward through all types of challenging endeavors.

Jada Pinkett Smith: Balancing work, family and beauty of African American skin

Popular actress Jada Pinkett Smith turns 40 this fall and does so under the constant pressure of balancing work and family. Smith was crowned Miss Maryland in 1988, according to the Internet Movie Database. However, the years have not tarnished her appearance despite the growth of her family, career and business ventures.

As she approaches 40, the mother of two, successful actress, businesswoman and wife, Pinkett Smith undoubtedly shares many women's experience of trying to keep all aspects of her life in balance. African American women have extra work involved in this process as their ethnic skin is more sensitive to both mental and physical changes. These include emotional or stressful times and variations in weather.

Dr. Susan Taylor, an African American dermatologist, has found that the most difficult struggles these women have are associated with pigmentation, or uneven skin tone, that may change on a daily basis. Taylor recommends skin care for black women to combat these uncertainties.

Find balance in your life with a strategic approach. Whether it is raining or shining, outside or inside, ethnic skin may be best prepared for any challenge with the use of black skin care products. 

A not so fair-weather warning

Melanin is the pigment that determines skin color. The more melanin an individual has, the darker the skin tone. While there are certainly some protective effects of a greater amount of melanin, it is often misconstrued as being impervious to the sun's harmful effects.

Contrary to popular belief, African American women are not only able to develop melanoma, or skin cancer, but have been shown to be greatly affected when diagnosed.

A study conducted at the Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana looked at malignant melanoma and its prognosis as a function of skin color and gender. The subjects consisted of 41 female patients and 39 males. Black women were found to have the most severe form of melanoma. Severity of disease is often correlated with delayed diagnosis. However, it was established this was not the case in this study.

In order to take preventative measures during the summer months, it is best for African American women to choose a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection and an SPF of 15 as recommended by Dr. Susan Taylor, director of Society Hill Dermatology in Philadelphia.

Do not let this warning go unheeded. Take precautions with black skin care products and reduce the risk of cancer during the warm weather months. 

New resource will help women share beauty secrets for African American skin

A newly launched online resource, Essence.com, recently updated their website to include celebrity resources and features that are revised daily.

Essence.com will enable African American women to connect with their favorite supermodels and businesswomen who share their common beauty interests and may offer personal insights that range from skin care to relationship advice.

The editors hope to instill a sense of inspiration for the African American woman. By reaching a wide array of individuals, the goal is to promote positive feedback and empower women on a large scale. Although the range of women is certain to vary, the common threads of interest and inquiries amongst them most likely will not. As such, the site will foster a greater sense of camaraderie amongst African-American women.

There will be blogs available for any African-American woman to express her thoughts and/or questions to their peers. Whether the objective at hand is relationships, black skin care or lifestyle changes, this website provides a platform to discuss these ideas amongst African American women.

Poll finds that many ethnic women are not satisfied with their skin care regimen

A recent poll that was conducted in the Long Beach, California area assessed women's satisfaction with their current skin care products. Approximately 60 percent of respondents reported dissatisfaction with their current skin care regimen.

The poll gathered data from than 1,000 women of varying ethnicities. Whether their ethnic background was African American, Asian, Middle Eastern or Hispanic, many of these women were disillusioned by their current skin care regimen, and several respondents did not understand that their skin color should not deter them from choosing an SPF that is typically used among lighter skinned individuals.

Darker skin color does not protect individuals from the sun, as many individuals believe. Sun exposure may lead to discoloration of the skin in the form of blotches and dark spots. In fact, darker skin is actually more susceptible to changes in color and texture than lighter skin, according to African American dermatologists.

A large percentage of women who participated in the survey said they would invest in more products if it could satisfy their skin care needs.

Beauty experts share tips on new interactive forum

A national pharmacy chain has announced the launch of Beauty Board, a panel of experts in the cosmetic and fashion world who will offer tips and interactive content on skin care concerns and trend advice.

Experts to be featured on the forum include Mickey Williams, celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist, Nichelle Pace, editor of blog StyleMom, and Keiko Lynn, an up-and-coming fashion designer.

"The introduction of the Beauty Board allows us to expand the beauty benefits by offering interactive expert advice for our members' specific beauty needs. The Beauty Board is the latest enhancement in our effort to personalize the beauty experience for our customers," said Cheryl Mahoney, VP of beauty care for CVS/pharmacy.

Available on the the drugstore's Facebook page, the forum might prove to be a useful resource for individuals with ethnic skin, who tend to have unique skin care issues.

Women who seek skin care products for black skin as well as cosmetics that flatter darker complexions have more options now than ever, making finding the right creams and makeup difficult. Those who want to lighten dark spots on black skin should consider using products with natural ingredients over those that contain hydroquinone.  

Kelly Choi recognized for her charity work with Positively Beautiful Award

Television host, former model and foodie Kelly Choi will be honored on June 28 at the HBA Global Expo with the Positively Beautiful Award for her work with charities Angelwish and Citymeals-on-Wheels.

Hailing from Korea, Choi first gained notoriety as the winner of Elite Modeling Agency's Look of the Year and also worked as a host on MTV Korea and the TV Guide Channel. Now, she enjoys combining her talents for being a television personality with her love of food, as the host of Bravo's Top Chef Masters and a judge on Iron Chef America.

"I'm excited to have such successful relationships with these amazing organizations in order to help educate the new generation on important issues that hit home for me," said Choi.

Angelwish is an organization that helps dreams come true for kids with chronic illnesses. Meanwhile, Citymeals-on-Wheels provides hot, nutritious food to homebound elderly people living in New York.

To prepare for the award ceremony, Choi may want to consider using Asian skin care products to ensure that she looks her best on stage.  

Liya Kebede: Model, actress, activist

At the age of 18, Liya Kebede left her home country of Ethiopia for France in hopes of becoming a model. She was immediately recognized by top fashion designers like Tom Ford and since then, she has gone on to explore an acting career and taken on successful ventures as a humanitarian.

Kebede's role in 2006's The Good Shepard led to her being cast in the 2009 film adaptation of Desert Flower as the character Waris Dirie.

In 2005, Kebede was given the opportunity to advocate for maternal, infant and neonatal healthcare as a Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization. Just months later, the multi-talented model began the Liya Kebede Foundation, which raises money for the Durame Hospital in Awassa.

Kebede also supports her native continent with her clothing line called Lemlem, which utilizes the skills of African artisans and aids communities in becoming self-sustaining.

Perhaps because of her glowing ethnic skin, Kebede was recently named a spokesperson for L'Oreal Paris, joining other beauties like Frieda Pinto and Jennifer Lopez.