Skin Care 101: Difference between Male and Female Skin Care

Tuesday, 2010-03-09

Men are from Mars, Women are From Venus

Though the questions of the differences between the genders are often the subject of debate, one fact holds true – men and women have different skin properties.

Even though each person has a unique skin makeup, there are general aspects to male and female skin.

Key Differences:

Skin Thickness

The skin is a “hormone sensitive organ.” Thus, since men are ruled by testosterone and women are ruled by estrogen, it plays a major role in the makeup of a man and woman’s skin.

Male skin is thicker than female skin. Thus, they are less vulnerable to damage from the sun. Men also have more elastin and collagen. Thus, compared to women, men are less susceptible to ageing.

Aging

However, though the thickness of male skin helps protect them from ageing, it does not last forever. Men’s skin grows thinner as they age, while women’s remain relatively constant throughout their older years.

Nerve Fibers

Men have about 50% less nerve endings than women, making them less sensitive to pain.

Delicate

However, male skin, surprisingly, is much more delicate than a woman’s. This is due to male shaving, which strips off the hydrolytic film on the skin’s surface, making it more prone to irritation and skin issues.

Sebaceous glands, oil and pores

Men have smaller sebaceous glands (oil glands). However, men also have oiler skin than women due their thicker skin and produce sebum for much longer. Women’s skin on the other hand, decreases oil production as they age.

Men also have larger pores (for oil and hair) which make them more susceptible to acne, blackheads, ingrown hair (from shaving incorrectly) and outbreaks.

Care Tips:

For Men

  • Use facial scrubs to get rid of dirt, grease and clogged pores. – Invest in a quality shaving kit (shaver/razor, foam, foam brush, aftershave).
  • Use a gentle aftershave and remember to moisturize afterwards lightweight products such as Diana Stalder’s His Facial Lotion.
  • To sooth irritated skin (or merely maintain soft and supple skin) try Diana Stadler’s Oatmeal Beauty Bar.
  • Though male skin is thicker, always use an oil-free sunscreen such as the Diana Stalder Sunblock Gel, which is specially formulated for oily skin.
  • Begin an anti-ageing regimen – moisturize/anti-wrinkle cream in the forehead, jowls and around the mouth (smile/frown lines) which are where male wrinkles are most prominent.
  • Get a facial 1 to 2 times per week or you can also give yourself one by washing your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser (using a washcloth and cleaning in a circular motion) to push out deep-seated dirt and oil.

For Women

  • Invest in anti-wrinkle/anti-ageing treatments even in your twenties.
  • Use an oil-free sunscreen and moisturizer such as the Diana Stalder Sunblock Cream.
  • Exfoliate skin regularly
  • Use gentle cleansers or products without any harsh ingredients such as the Diana Stalder Clean and Tone Lotion.
  • When using wrinkle creams, concentrate on the eye, mouth areas as well as the spot between the eyebrows since these locations are where female wrinkles are the most prominent. For evening care, try the Diana Stalder Nourishing Creme which exfoliates dead skin cells and maintains its elasticity. For daytime care, the Diana Stalder SBF Collagen Cream (SPF 30) helps protect skin from sun damage and sustains the skin’s moisture and elasticity.

Skin Care 101: Eczema, Soothing Care to Keep the Condition at Bay

Saturday, 2010-03-06

Do you have a rash, specifically on your joints, arms, legs, trunk and hands, that just won’t go away?

If so, then you may have eczema and should consult a doctor regarding medication and treatment options. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis (inflammation of the epidermis), is a non-contagious skin condition that may have a genetic link. There are many types of eczema. Symptoms include itching, sensitivity, redness, dry (peeling) skin and recurrent skin rashes.

But for eczema sufferers, one already knows that the disease requires constant management and care. However, for those with a mild form of eczema, the disease is controllable and can change with time. Flare-ups (sudden appearance dry, itchy and red rash) can be relieved, minimized, or even, prevented with the proper skin care regimen.

Here are a few tips to soothe and keep the condition at bay:

1. Identify and avoid your triggers

Eczema, in its mildest form, is a skin allergy. Therefore, by identifying and avoiding your triggers, the less likely you’ll have to deal with it. Triggers may include: dust, certain foods, products with harsh ingredients (ex. detergents, certain soaps, cleaning agents), extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold), and even, stress.

2. Moisturize

Most cases of eczema feature dry skin that often peels and cracks. Choose non-greasy products that lock in moisture, prevent dryness and do not clog pores such as the Diana Stalder Skin Moisturizing Lotion.

3. Stay cool!

Try to keep your skin (and surroundings) cool and dry. One of the major causes of an eczema outbreak is extreme heat and sweating. If you workout, make sure to take a shower right away. Use a mild yet cleansing soap such as the Diana Stalder Revitilizing Beauty Bar, which keeps the skin moist yet gets rid of dirt and grime. Remember to moisturize your skin directly after a bath or shower. Try the Diana Stalder Facial Lotion, which cleanses yet soothes the skin.

4. Get some sun

While it’s important to not let oneself get too hot, a little bit of sun can go a long way.
The sun’s rays are rich in vitamin D, and many have found that the sunlight has eased their condition. However, make sure to consult with your doctor first. Other sufferers find that sun exposure worsens their disease. If you find that the sun helps, make sure to limit your time and venture out during the coolest parts of the day (morning and late afternoon) and wear sunscreen such as the Diana Stalder Sunblock Gel, which keeps skin clear while also blocking harmful UV rays.

5. Chill out

Stress is a proven and also one of the most common causes of eczema. Unwind, relax or take on positive stress-releasing activities such as yoga and meditation.

Remember, although no one chooses to have eczema, by making the right choices, you are still in control. Don’t let your eczema control you, take charge and live the best life possible.


Skin Care 101: Three Popular Home Remedies Exposed

Friday, 2010-03-05

Have a pimple? Want to give your skin a more youthful glow?

Then, why not use cooking oil!

…Wait! Not so fast, before you employ any random home remedy or old wives tale to address your skin care matters, placing the wrong ingredients on your skin may have disastrous effect.

If you’re still looking to figure out what’s hot and what’s not for your skin, this article will guide you through three popular “old wives tales”:

1. Lemon as a skin whitener

Although lemon is rich in Vitamin C and is wonderful disinfectant, it’s bleaching effect – though effective – is not noticeable, especially on the skin. Not only will it take too much time to produce any noticeable results, but lemon’s acidic properties when used in extreme amounts may dry out skin. Rather than go through the long ardous process of using lemon as a skin whitening agent, why not use a gentle yet fast and effective product such as the Diana Stalder Surely White Body Whitening Lotion, Diana Stalder Surely White Whitening Cream (for the face)  or invest in the complete Diana Stalder Surely White Whitening Regimen Kit.

2. Vegetable Cooking Oil as a moisturizer

Although some oils, such as virgin olive oil and coconut oil, when used in moderation, are beneficial and helpful for dry skin, other cooking products such as canola or vegetable oil often causes irritation and breakouts. Rather than experiment on your skin (which is the last place you should experiment with questionable ingredients on), use the safe and effective Diana Stalder Nourishing Creme or the Diana Stalder Skin Moisturizing Lotion instead.

3. Petroleum Jelly to reduce wrinkles

Petroleum Jelly contains butylene glycol, propylene, petrolateum and mineral oil that can be toxic. Though Petroleum Jelly is well-known for temporarily soothing dry, there is no evidence that it reduces wrinkles or even, aids dry skin in the long-run. Rather than locking in the moisture, Petroleum Jelly merely coats the outer layer of the skin. Don’t coat yourself in grease! Use the Diana Stalder SBF Collagen Cream or better yet, the Diana Stalder Surely White Anti-Wrinkle Kit for a clean, healthy youthful glow.


Skin Care 101: Matching Skin Type with Skin Care

Thursday, 2010-03-04

Are you having trouble finding the right soap? Does your lotion make your skin even drier?

Well, the first step to getting your products right is to figure out your skin type.

There are three basic types: Oily, combination, and dry.

Knowing your “type” determines your approach to skin care. Though one is born to a certain kind of skin, it can change with time depending upon one’s lifestyle, diet, environment and even, hormonal changes.

Test yourself:

A quick way is to get a regular sheet of blotting paper, and after you’ve washed your face with soap and water, gently dab it over towel-dried skin.

Oily skin will show oil spots over the paper.
Dry skin does not show any oil.
Combination – oily spots will appear in the T-zone area (forehead, nose, chin) but will stay dry in the other parts.

Once you’ve determined your type, here are a few skin care tips:

1. Normal

Since your skin is probably as smooth as a baby’s bottom, you take proper steps to maintain its clarity, elasticity and tone.
Use gentle yet revitalizing products such as the Diana Stalder Vitamin A Beauty Bar, the Diana Stalder Revitalizing Beauty Bar and the Diana Stalder Nourishing Cream.

2.  Dry skin

Dry skin may not be as prone to breakouts as oily skin, but it needs as much (if not more) care. Dry skin tends to flake easily and is prone to irritation. People with dry skin often have more wrinkles.

Use gentle, moisturizing products. Aim for products with natural ingredients. Since dry skin is susceptible to ageing, pick products that contain sunscreen, such as Diana Stalder Skin Moisturizing Lotion (SPF 30) or the Diana Stalder SBF Collagen Cream which will help retain skin moisture and elasticity. The Diana Stalder Glycerine Beauty Bar also helps ease dry skin issues.

3. Oily Skin
Oily skin is the most prone to pimple outbreaks, therefore place an emphasis on exfoliating and deep-pore cleansing. Aim for products that address pimples and blemishes, such as Diana Stalder Tea Tree Beauty Bar or the Diana Stalder Clean and Tone Lotion.

Remember, the skin is the largest organ in the body. It does such a great job protecting us from the hazards of daily living, therefore, it is our job give it the care and attention it deserves.  Plus, finding out the correct information and taking better care of your skin today, will save you time and money tomorrow


Latest Diana Stalder Factory Shipment

Saturday, 2010-02-13

We wanted to give a quick update to our customers who are waiting on the restocking of several Diana Stalder items in our SouthGain Skin Care store.  Our latest shipment from the Diana Stalder factory arrived nearly a week ago, however it was selected randomly for detailed hand inspection by U.S. Customs.  This process normally adds several days to the Customs clearance process.  In this case, it will be even longer than normal, due to the backlog created by the recent snowstorms, with the inspection team being short-staffed.

Thanks for your continued patience while we await the clearance of this latest shipment.  We will keep you updated here if there is any change in status, but we do expect the products to be available in our store in the next few days.


Happy Valentine’s Day From SouthGain!

Saturday, 2010-02-13

Here are some wonderful gift ideas for the ladies this Valentine’s Day . . .

  • A spa weekend treat . . . any woman appreciates a relaxing weekend of pampering, massage and aromatherapy.
  • Home-cooked meal by candlelight . . . truly romantic, it’s a chance for you to showcase your amateur culinary skills to the lady who never fails to prepare dinner for you every night.
  • Flowers and a quiet evening . . . if you haven’t given her flowers lately, Valentine’s Day is the perfect chance for you to woo her again with a big bouquet of her favorite flower or a dozen long stem roses.  Then spend a quiet evening with a movie marathon of your favorite romantic films.
  • Jewelry . . . is always a great gift.
  • Skin Care Kits . . . not having enough budget shouldn’t stop you from making your girl feel special this Valentine’s Day.  With little money, you can get her something to maintain her natural beauty, visit the SouthGain Webstore for some great ideas!

So let’s hear from you!  What is the best Valentine’s Day gift you’ve ever given or received?  What’s the one thing you’ve always hoped for, but were too shy to mention?  Feel free to use the comment form to share your thoughts!

Happy Valentine’s everyone!  May this day be a meaningful celebration with you and your loved one.


No Shipping This Monday, Presidents Day

Saturday, 2010-02-13

Just a quick note here to remind our customers that there will be no shipments sent on Monday, 15 February, because of the U.S. Federal holiday (Presidents Day).  All orders will be processed and shipped on Tuesday, 16 February.

Happy Valentine’s Day and happy Presidents Day, everyone!


Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Saturday, 2010-02-06

Melaleuca, otherwise known as tea tree oil, is a natural antibacterial disinfectant.  For thousands of years, aboriginal Australians have known about its potent medicinal qualities.  It is taken from the leaves and needles of the Melaleuca alternifolia, which is native to the northeast coast of New South Wales, Australia.

In recent years, several scientific studies have confirmed that tea tree oil has numerous medicinal benefits.

Its properties can naturally eliminate three types of infectious organisms—fungus, bacteria, and virus—making it a natural remedy for different types of bacterial and fungal afflictions such as acne, athlete’s foot, warts, rashes, dandruff, abscesses and even herpes.

By strengthening the body’s immune system, the anti-viral agent of tea tree oil can fight various infectious, such as flu and cold sores.

The Diana Stalder Tea Tree Beauty Bar is a natural soap with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.  It’s very effective against acne and fungi.


The Growing Skin Whitening Industry

Thursday, 2010-02-04

A recent article on GMANews.TV scrutinized the obsession of Pinoys to attain lighter skin complexion.

In the article, journalist Tina Arceo-Dumlao, cited a survey conducted by Synovate, which reveals that “two out of five women in Hong Kong, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines and Taiwan feel they are more attractive with fair complexions.”   The results even highlighted the fact that the Philippines had the highest usage among the countries included in the survey.

From a business standpoint, the growing market is great news for us. But it doesn’t necessarily make things easier!

With so many companies jumping on the bandwagon, it gets harder for the authorities to monitor and keep up with all the products out there, making the hunt for a safe and effective whitening product harder for the average consumer.

Some manufacturers offer cheaper but unsafe alternatives, and to add to it, fly-by-night vendors mislead customers by misrepresenting some known brands and labeling fake products.

As a vendor of products that can lighten skin, we do find the topic very interesting. We’ve had several customers who’ve been victimized one way or another.

Victim or not, we’d love to hear your thoughts too.  Do you know of a product that’s unsafe or mislabeled?

Post your comments and tell us about it!


But What About My Lips?

Saturday, 2010-01-30

“I’m so happy with the results! My skin is visibly lighter, but what about my lips? Do you have a product for dark lips?”

Every now and then happy customers who have attained a lighter complexion from the Diana Stalder Surely White product line do ask us such a question.

We do not have a product available yet. But do stay tuned!

In the meantime, we’d like to provide some homemade solutions.

You can regularly apply any of the following on your lips, helping keep them moist and eventually gaining back that natural pinkish color:

  • Mixed lemon juice with honey
  • Juice from ground coriander leaves (just a small amount daily will do)
  • Beetroot or beetroot juice
  • Applying glycerin overnight can also do the trick

If you are a smoker, you can start cutting down on smoking or completely quit the habit. The tobacco in cigarettes trigger more melanin production, thus leading to darker lips.

Lips that are dry can appear dark too. Almond or coconut oil are known to be great lip moisturizers.