Make-up hints

abbadoodles

Did you know that wikipedia has an entry for "bikini waxing" that explains, and pictures, each and every type?  Hmmmm.  How to choose? 

Found OPI polishes at my new hairdresser's the other day and bought a couple of pale pinks.  Bubble Gum, sounds awful but is really very subtle whitish pink, is on my nails now.  Still, not the same as in that picture I posted earlier.  Still on the hunt.

KAK

Tina, thanks for the tip on Oleeva Scar Shapes.  Those look wonderful!   Have to try one on my poor nipple.

Also, good tip, Alo, on the brow stencils.  That's just what I need.  I have nice brows, but now that they're sort of uneven and have faded, I need a guide to enhance them well enough.

Anonymous

Tina...Can you say how much the Oleeva silicone sheeting costs? If it goes by size, how about the smallest, like to scars around the nipples or one that is about 3" straight across? My incisions haven't healed yet, but when they do, I'd like to be prepared.

I don't think that I've posted this anywhere yet, but I'm going to need a re-do on my cancer breast. The PS put in a moderate profile implant that was 30 cc's smaller than what she used on the healthy breast. I don't know what she was thinking, but now that the swelling is down, the left (lumpectomy) breast looks waaaaay smaller than the right, which looks great! Now, mind you, no one can see this difference in clothes, but w/o them, and especially from the side, the left boob looks just like someone just plastered a donut on my chest. Ugh! AND...AND...AND...the freakin' color in my nipples has totally disappeared and they are the same color as my skin! WTF????! Anyway, she says that it's probably because the skin is stretched, but I'm wondering why it doesn't happen to everyone then, especially those who get large implants (mine are so small that you don't notice a big difference)? Anyway, I guess that when this is all over and done, I'll need to get tattooes. All in all, though, I really love the feeling that the newly-fortified breasts give me and I actually like the look too (even though it doesn't sound like it). It'll just take a little longer than I'd planned to achieve the symmetry I want (& the nipples), but I already got the attutude

Marin

Sphynx

Hi Marin,
I had a re-do of my reconstruction a few days after you. Since we had similar situations such as reconstruction after radiation, we've talked through private messages earlier. Now that you mention that your PS put the smaller implant in your BC side, I have to chime in. That is just wrong. Did she screw-up and put the implants in the wrong breasts? Each reconstruction of mine required at least 30cc's more in the BC side since that is where the top half of the breast was removed. The BC side also had a high profile implant to fill in the top. The second time, the implants are both the same.

From experience, I liked the size of my breasts when I was still swollen. I'm hoping I'm not still swollen since the results this time are spectacular. I waited about two years before getting this re-done and waited too long. The scar tissue caused the implant to stick to my chest wall immediately. I waited until it was painful to have it fixed.

I'm hoping you can go back as soon as they allow and get the results you want. Best of luck. Hope someone else chimes in about the pale nipple.

barbe1958

Crap Marin, and you were so happy! I know you'll work at your PS until they are perfect though. You'll want to be in top shape (pun intended!) for your water sports, so tell her to get a hump on! 

Anonymous

I know you're right, Sphynx, but I think that she was assuming that the tissue she needed to remove for the lift on the healthy breast would be more than what was missing on the left due to cancer (huh?). Whatever she thought, it turned out to be erroneous and I'm definitely pursuing it as soon as these incisions are healed. I will report this...the swelling on both sides seems to have dissipated and the implants may even have begun to drop a bit already. Bottom line is that, despite the size difference most evident from the side, the boobs do look pretty awesome! So, yeah, Barbe, I'm still very happy that I had it done, but I'm holding out for a look that allows me to feel as whole and as healthy as possible. After all, that was the intent of my having the procedure, right?!

I'm still going to look into the sheeting that Tina is using because the scars are still quite outstanding.

~Marin

barbe1958

Tina had such a good response to those sheets! If it wasn't someone I "knew" I wouldn't believe them. Amazing it's the first we've all heard about it. It sounds like you are getting a natural look going on as well Marin. Certainly a prize after so much hard  work and owies. Some people swear that the sun is good for healing the scars and others say to avoid it. What's your take? I would have thought sun was healing, but now I don't know.... 

abbadoodles

Okay, Marin, I found the paper with the prices.  Here is the link to see the actual shapes.  http://www.silon.com/Products/OleevaScarShapes.htm

Breast areola (1) $16.01   -    Breast form (1) $31.50   -    Breast form kit $42.76   Vertical mastopexy $23.10

You only have to buy what you need for your particular case.  I've been using mine for a month now and it is still in perfect shape, still sticking, no tape needed at edges to keep it on.  They say it is good for 4-6 weeks.

I only bought one to see if it did any good and now that I know it does I will be re-ordering. 

I wash mine every day, as advised, with pure olive oil soap.  You can put it back on within an hour but it will still be "wet."  However, all you have to do after putting it back on is blot it with a towel and it dries it off instantly.

Every week I see a difference in the scar.  I am extremely happy with the progress.   It will still take time for it to fade enough to make me happy but things are progressing nicely, where nothing seemed to be happening before. 

I wasn't a believer in this, either, until I actually tried it.  LOL Live and learn.

Anonymous

Thanks so much, Tina! I'm definitely ordering the areola and vertical ones for my healthy side and then, after the implant exchange, I'll get another to fit that incision which is just horizontal and straight. The price is actually good if you consider how much longevity you're getting from it, right?

Barbe, I'm a big sun worshipper, but plan to keep my scars totally out of the sun...forever! According to Beth and the others who had input, the sun causes the scars to stay red and angry-looking, so I won't take any chances. I have been getting ready for boating and wakeboarding though and already have a pretty nice beige going. In a few weeks, I'll be ready to bare it all (well, not ALL, unless it's just we two and we find a very private cove in which to drop anchor !).

I've been using the foundation very lightly under my eyes with great success. I've also started my B-vitamin complex back up again because I have been hearing about how a deficiency can cause dark undereye circles.

I also just started using Pureology shampoo and LOVE how it leaves my hair. My stylist has been singing its praises for awhile now and I finally broke down after using some samples she gave me. It's pricey, but you don't use much. They make several different formulas for different types of hair. So if you're looking for a new miracle shampoo for hair that's colored, check it out: http://www.pureology.com/ !

~Marin

barbe1958

Marin, it won't load at work for me. What has it done for you? Does it help the colour last longer? Make it easier to comb out? Protect it from the sun? Come on, spill.

Thanks for the heads-up on the sun. I thought Beth and Raye were just talking abou the tanning beds being too strong or something.

Glad the foundation trick has worked for you. I can't believe the difference it made in me! No more white circles around my eyes.

BrittaA

It's so important to feel good during and after cancer treatments. As a cancer survivor myself, I could find few resources about make-up that was good for my skin during and after treatments (it was sensitive), and how I could make myself feel better. I started a blog, Cinco Vidas, as a resource for cancer patients and did a recent post on mineral make-up (http://blog.cincovidas.com/mineral-makeup-a-great-alternative-for-compromised-and-sensitive-skin) and have done some posts on avoiding toxins in make-up since I'm now more conscientious about what I put on and in my body (http://blog.cincovidas.com/toxic-truth). I also love the Anastasia brow kit - here is a link for purchasing it (http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P137501). Love, strength and survival, Britta

BethNY

Marin I love pureology products from shampoo to styling stuff!

I have so much back reading to do to catch up, but my eyes are too tired.

I'm just skimming through the pages...

Anonymous

Yeah, about the Pureology products...what I like best about them (besides the amazing smell!) is they leave my hair as perfect as it can be. My hair is as fine as a baby's and since I have it colored and highlighted, I need to keep it well-conditioned. But most conditioners make it limp and sometimes even stringy, which is waaay unacceptable. But the Pureology softens it all right right, but allows it to retain whatever body it naturally has. Also, this is the one line that my stylist swears by for everything, but especially for preserving color between treatments.

I also like all of the pure, natural ingredients and the fact that they don't test on animals.

~Marin

barbe1958

Ooooo, that was what I was hoping to hear. Gotta get me some of that! I have VERY fine, limp hair too, and mine does the same as yours if I use a conditioner when I colour it. Thanks for the tip!

EWB

I have curly hair (large curl) with a mind of its own. I know I need to condition but so many make it limp- maybe I will look into pureology....I'm sure it was mentioned earlier but is this available in stores or is it an online item?

LisaSDCA

I don't color my hair but have highlights put in once or twice a year. Is it worth it to try this - 'cause I'm out in the sun a good bit of the time. Or just continue with my shampoo and condit. with sunscreen? I found this special at  Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Pureology-hydrating-Shampoo-Conditioner-35-00-save/dp/B0014JY88G

Marin - I'm also glad you you went for some more substantial bottoms for wakeboarding. I'd even not be surprised if you chose board shorts!

Lisa

abbadoodles

My hair woes:  It's getting less and less curly, almost all gone, and is looking really ratty.  The hairdresser has been whacking at the fullness in the back to make it stick out less but now I just have lots of bristly ends sticking out when I try to blow it straight while, if I let it dry naturally it looks okay but not so curly, just half-a--ed curly at the ends.  What can I do????   I've been using an Aveda shampoo (Color Conserve) and it is making my hair very soft, which is unnatural.  Also, it's thinner post-chemo and I think it's still shedding from that.  My eyelashes are cycling again, right now, and it's a full TWO YEARS since I finished chemo.   Whhaaaaaaaa.

BethNY

I love the smell of pureology too. I get it from the salon, I don't know if they carry it in drugstores.

EWB- styling and taming curly hair is something I have mastered. Larger curls are actually easier to manage. BUT-- when its super short- like just growing in after chemo, and not yet at that paige boy or bob length, it can be more challenging. How long is it?

Tina- when you blow it straight a flat iron would tame the ends-- but its a lot of work. If you wanted it to be curlier, I can give you curly styling tips... I like the natural wave on you... I know what you look like. lol. Soft and natural with a wave suits your pretty face.

Anonymous

At first, Pureology was only available from the salons, but I'm now seeing it all over, even my grocery store! It's a bit pricey, so try Target before you spring for it. The good news is that you really can use a relatively small amount each time, so the bottles will last. And you don't need to color your hair to benefit from it. My stylist uses it too and her hair is completely natural!

So Lisa, I think that you should give it a try since you do spend time in the sun. As for board shorts....bite your tongue, girl! I wouldn't wear THEM to bed! Hmmmm...especially not to bed !

~Marin

abbadoodles

I am laughing at you, Marin.  Well, not AT you, but because of you.  You are definitely incorrigible.  A hottie from the stottie.  (That's Massachusetts-ese for start-y, my inadequate way of rhyming.)  You go, girl.

I was reading the Pureology website and they say their guarantee is void if you buy from anyone but an "authorized" salon.  I wonder why the hell they sell to other outlets, then?  Is this a game?  Sometimes I just don't understand marketing tactics.

I went out and bought some hot curlers yesterday.  I had used a curling iron to make some curls to tame the bristle-y ends and liked the results but not the process so I figured I'd try it with hot curlers.  They also may help my cowlick that parts my hair down the back since it came back from chemo.  It's awful.  When I wash my hair again, probably tomorrow as I try for about every three days, I'll blow it dry then use the curlers and will let you know if it's a success.  I'll also try the flat iron tool on the ends as an alternative look.  And, Beth, awwww shucks.  You make me feel like Bashful.

BethNY

I am so exhausted.... BUT, I had to keep my eyes open long enough to tell you that I found a lip gloss lip plumper that ACTUALLY WORKS.

It's called MOTHER PUCKER, and it's sold in a three pack at Target by the Soap and Glory brand for $25. The three colors are really great on all skin tones, and you put it on, and rub your lips together, and it takes a few minutes to get the full effect but I swear it makes your lips look plump.

I NEVER thought any of these things worked- besides lip venom which makes your lips burn. This is definitely on my recommended product list.

Also, from Soap and Glory I picked up their THERMAL HOT SCRUB... it's a scrub that heats up when you rub it on your body in the shower....$9

Ok- that's all I have the engergy to write about- but when I get my next free moment I want to tell you about the diamond eye powder I got from sephora in bronze and how incredible I think it is.

love you girls.

Tine- got your emails- will read them tomorrow when I have some down time at work- I'm working late = till about 10ish so I'll def. have time to respond tomorrow. xoxo

abbadoodles

Lordy Beeee, Mother Pucker.  Ah, times have changed.  I'll look for it when I go back to Target soon, though.

Just was reading InStyle UK edition and there was an article of make-up tricks that mentioned using FLESH TONED eyeliner pencil on the inner, lower lid to make your eyes really POP.  I know we have used white and pink, but there's another thing to try.

Now, ladies, I need your help.  I've been looking for a pointed sponge-tip thingy like this but not on the end of a product.  It has to be firm spongy and pointed, preferably short like one of those sponge eye shadow applicators that come with product.  This is on the end of an EL eyeliner stick.

Raye99

Well, I've had a MOTHER PUCKER of a week, let me tell ya.

TT - may I ask what you intend to use this firm spongy pointy thing for? LOL. 

My hair is in the same condition. Most of the curl is gone, unless I really work it, scrunching like crazy, while my head it upside down. I've just been using the John Frieda frizz ease and making it somewhat straight and then using a flat - iron, but as Beth said, it is a process, so once I do this to my hair, it doesn't get washed for about three days.

abbadoodles

Don't be dirty...... LOL  Smudge my eyeliner, now that you ask.

Isn't the hair a pip?  I never thought I'd bemoan the day most of the curl was gone.  Now I'm putting in artificial curl.  Go figure.  The only good thing is that my hair does have lots of natural body and that wavy thing going on so any curl I do put in tends to stay around.  Still, I had grown fond of my curls.

I just re-ordered on the Oleeva scar strips only this time I ordered two of the brachioplasty shapes instead of the abdominoplasty one.  At 8" each and straight across, the total of 16" will cover my scar with no waste.  What I have left from the abd. shape I can cut up more and use for the belly button scar and even some left over for the breast scar.  Of course, the two brachioplasty ones come to about $64 and the one abd. shape is $93, so I'm saving some cash. 

These things are really working, even fading the redness.  I just asked the rep at the company if they were meant to decrease redness and she replied that that is not what they are designed for and they make no promises but that the action of the silicone in reducing the raised portion of the scar tended to "calm down" that underlying area and a secondary benefit was often the fading of hyper-pigmentation.  So, no it's not guaranteed or anything, but it may well be a side-effect.  I like GOOD side effects.  Right?  About time.........

Now, why have you had such a bad week, Raye?  Work?  I know you've been busy.

BethNY

I have a brush shaped like that from MAC that is used to smudge eyeliner. I can look for the number on the brush when I get a minute at home to breathe. I'm still at work for at least another hour and I'm so tired, and I have to be back here early in the morning. I walked in to a madhouse here today... ate lunch at 4:30... now I'm finally able to sit down and have a few free minutes to myself, although it won't last long.

I really hope I can shuffle the old folks out of the movie theatre and the clubhouse as soon as the flick is over... I really don't feel like sitting around and schmoozing at 10 at night.

Raye- sorry you had a sh*tty week. hope next one is ten times better for you.

love to all

CathyG

For those with sensitive skin, you might want to try what I use:  cetaphil (or store brand) and a touch of baking soda.  The cetaphil is non allergic and gently, the addition of the baking soda gives it a bit of "grit" for exfoliation.  Then I use the little cotton pressed puffs to apply witch hazel for the astringent.  Works and is kind to the pocket book.  There is a book that came out a few years ago called "Don't go to the makeup counter without me" that was published some years ago.  It has all sorts of tips, tells you what is actually in some of the stuff we put on our faces.  Sometimes, not so nice stuff in some of the products.

Now, my question:  has anyone tried any of the "wrinkle" removing remedies?  Do they work?  I do use some retinA cream from time to time, but was wondering if there is something else out there that really works?  They all say they do, have before and after pictures, but I am still skeptical.

Cathy

barbe1958

You guys won't believe, but I clean my face with water and a washcloth ONLY. No fancy stuff, and I'll be humble, I turn 51 a week today and people think I'm in my 30's. I'm lucky on this one.

abbadoodles

Well, barbe, you are blessed.  Not to mention that you are savings tons of money on product.

Cathy, glad you stopped by.  Good tips.  Thanks.

I understand that the Vit A derivatives, such as RetinA and Renova, are still the gold standard for skin renewal = wrinkle minimization.  You have to use it every day, though, at night, because UV destroys the retinoic acid.  You may want to go to Renova if your skin is drying out as it is gentler and in a creamier base. 

I use the Ionzyme range of retinol, Vit C, etc. products.  It's available through dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

The next most promising thing for boosting collagen production are alpha and beta hydroxy acids, aka the fruit acids.  Glycolic is a very popular one.  You can use this a couple of times a week instead of the Renova.  As with all of these strong products, start with a weaker version just a couple of times a week and work your way up to avoid irritation.  When you shop for creams, make sure you check the %.  Probably 2% glycolic is the best place to start.

BTW, did you know you can use these same products on the backs of your hands if they are getting wrinkly/spotty looking?  Again, just at night.

Always use an SPF lotion or cream during the day if you are using these products, esp. if you have sensitive skin.

Don't forget:  EVERY DAY, not just once and awhile.  Nothing works if it stays in the jar. LOL

Beth, I will have to check the MAC products online.  Or is this another excuse for a shopping trip?  Gee, I think my aunties down in RI need a visit from me.  I can stop by the mall while I'm in town.  Now, don't let the oldies get you all run down.    Lotta life left in them thar ladies.......

Product review:  Smooth Away hair removal.  As seen on TV.  Bought it at Sally's because it reminded me of the hair remover pads, like little sandpaper mitts, my mother used to use to "shave" her legs.  Nostalgia.  Well, I tried them and they DO work but it takes a bit of time.  You might want to throw them in your suitcase to use on vacation when you don't want to risk shaving rash at the beach.

Another product review:  OPI ridge filler.  It does fill the ridges somewhat, but you cannot use a light polish over it unless it is super-opaque because the ridge filler settles into the ridges DUH and makes white lines that are very visible through the polish.  I will have to see if there is a brand that is clear.  Anyone know?

barbe1958

Tina, in the Great White North the sun is much weaker. I've never used an SPF cream in my life! I guess there had to be some benefit to our lousy weather.....sigh.

EWB

LOVE the OPI ridge filler- use ti all the time w/other colors, never had a problem.

Also use just water and clothe to was clean, just started once a week with a very gentle face scrub any more than that its disaster.