I decided that I would do whatever was needed in order to help my daughter feel confident about her skin again. We tried a wide variety of products and for awhile some of them would work.  She’d get a little clearer, but inevitably, the blemishes would come back.

Some of the brands we tried include Noxzema, Stridex, Clear Skin, Acne Free, and Proactiv. Many of these products were very drying which led to a whole new set of challenges. Redness. Rough spots.  She’d end up with flaky patches that were impossible to cover with makeup.

Bailey Before

We talked to a dermatologist in the Spring and he mentioned taking both an oral and topical approach. It sounded good, but very pricey. In the meantime, he gave her steroid shots in the pimples that she did have. The blemishes disappeared by the next day, but I was uncomfortable with the treatment. Plus it’s not always convenient to get to doctor right away.

When I was approached about giving SkiniD from Neutrogena a try, I wasn’t sure if it would be any different than the other treatments, but Bailey was willing to give it a chance. We decided to put off the expensive prescription for awhile.

SkiniD works a little differently than other programs. It’s a 3-step program that is tailored to the individual’s needs. Bailey filled out a series of questions that asked about skin type,  the frequency and type of breakouts she suffered, the area of her face most affected. It was very detailed. She was determined to require a #14 Cream Cleanser, a #32 Anti-Acne Treatment, and a #72 Hydrator. Her products arrived in a couple of days, complete with a cute carrying case, which makes it easy for her to cart the regime with her to sleepovers and on vacation. (Plus it keeps the bathroom counter from growing too cluttered).

It wasn’t very long before I noticed a big difference in Bailey’s skin. It was clearer. She had fewer pimples, a smoother texture, and the scars were fading. She was very excited. It is such a relief to find a product line that actually works. My daughter is feeling pretty again and she’s wearing a lot less makeup – she doesn’t need to hide under it anymore.

Bailey After skiniD

I’ve told anyone and everyone I know about the SkiniD program. I think that the program is so successful because it’s not a one-size-fits-all skincare line. It addresses an individuals specific challenges. Through my work for Splendicity, I have the opportunity to try a lot of different skincare lines. I would absolutely recommend skiniD to anyone.

Image credit: Michelle Smith

This post was sponsored by Neutrogena skinID™ – The only Personalized Acne Solution made just for you. Guaranteed Results or your money back.

Post from: Blisstree

Review: My Daughter Tried skinID

Just rub it on your face, wait a few minutes, and then rinse off. I did this one morning before I popped in the shower. The mask hardens a bit when it starts to dry, but not like those old masks that would literally make your skin look like a desert! Anyway, after rinsing this off it’s a good idea to put moisturizer on. My skin look better instantly, but I would imagine that in order to get the full effect you’ve got to do it regularly.

Image: Dr. Gram

Post from: Blisstree

Skin1 Review

by Carissa Rivas

We’re all searching for the fountain of youth and every day brings news of the latest moisturizers, creams and surgeries guaranteed to keep us looking young. Still, there is emphasis on the benefits of exercise and a healthy diet to prevent disease and increase longevity and many are surprised at how easily good food choices can naturally help defy the effects of aging.

For Healthy Skin

Most experts agree that eating a balanced diet is the best way to get healthy skin. Here are a few foods that are more likely to give your skin a boost of glow.

• Blueberries and Tomatoes – Especially with summer right around the corner, these super foods are essential to everyday diet. Antioxidant-rich, blueberries and tomatoes both offer prevention from sunburn and promote skin repair after sun exposure.
• Water – Water remains to be the best way to hydrate your skin and body and the secret to keeping skin looking young and healthy.
• Seeds – Sunflower, flax, and pumpkin seeds are packed with essential fatty acids and help with the development of healthy cell membranes, which act as barriers to inflammatory agents that can damage the skin.

For Increased Memory

For many, memory can seem to be one of the first signs of aging. But just because you can’t remember where you left your car keys, it does not mean you are losing your memory.

• Blueberries – With antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, blueberries decrease mental deterioration and help with coordination and balance.

To Improve Heart Health

After a check-up with the doctor, heart health is usually the most important thing many of us have to go home and work on. Here are some foods to help:

• Almonds – Rich in monounsaturated fat (the good kind) and protein, almonds play an important role in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, decreasing your risk of heart disease and cancer.
• Sunflower Seeds – With antioxidants and anti-carcinogens, sunflower seeds support prostate health and aid in lowering your cholesterol. They also contain selenium and vitamin E to aid in the fight against cancer and heart disease.
• Legumes – Beans, peas and lentils are packed with soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol. Research shows that people who ate legumes at least four times a week had a 22 percent lower risk of heart disease.

For Disease Prevention

Nutrient-dense foods, particularly those rich in antioxidants, contain a wealth of disease-fighting substances.

• Whole Grains/Brown Rice – Offering a wide array of health benefits, whole grains contain a rich source of fiber, as well as B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, and iron. They also contain numerous disease-fighting phytochemicals and antioxidants that are not found in fruits. By simply replacing white bread with whole wheat bread, you can potentially reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke and certain cancers.
• Pomegranate - Rich in potassium and vitamin C, pomegranate helps keep arteries clear of fatty deposits, which prevents heart attacks, strokes, premature aging, Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.
• Yogurt/Low-Fat Dairy – Both are a great source of protein and calcium. Yogurt contains probiotics, which give the immune and intestinal systems a boost and low-fat dairy provides calcium, potassium and magnesium, all key to the prevention of hypertension and osteoporosis.
• Berries – Antioxidant-rich blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries fight off free radicals, which cause disease.

All of these everyday foods can easily be added into your diet. Adding berries and seeds to salads and cereals, choosing wheat pasta and breads and enjoying low-fat dairy daily will naturally help you look and feel younger. Bon appetite!

About Carissa Rivas
Carissa Rivas, BS, is the nutritionist at Susan’s Healthy Gourmet, which produces and delivers gourmet, nutritionally balanced, portion controlled meals to homes and businesses in San Diego, and throughout Southern California. In addition to customizable individual meals, Susan’s Healthy Gourmet offers a Purification and Anti-Aging Plan; Diabetic Menu; Good Sense Menu for seniors ages 65 and over; Kid’s Backpack Lunches and Busy Bee Dinners. For more information, call 888-EZ-MEALS or visit www.susanshealthygourmet.com.

Image: Susan’s Healthy Gourmet Purification and Anti-Aging Plan

Post from: Blisstree

Take Off Years with Anti-Aging Foods