Black Globe International Magazine Oct 2019 2019-10 Black Globe International Magazine Vol 201 | Page 11

Beautiful You: A Beauty Queen's Secrets to Healthy, Beautiful Skin By: Sonya Murphy Your special day is quickly approaching and everyone loves to see a radiant, glowing you walking confidently… It is the special moment you've been anticipating... Whether it is your wedding day, your graduation, a pageant, or your close-up, it all starts with skin care. In between choosing your dream gown, practicing your talent and onstage question, doing lengthy photo shoots, and executing your "to do" check- list, make certain that you plan to carry out a full skin care regi- men before your big event. Possessing a flawless, even skin tone and complexion provides for better makeup application results and also offers a high-quality photo-finish look to your por- traits. To achieve a flawless, radiant, and glowing complexion, begin with a thorough skin care regimen and be consistent. Use potent product lines that work well for your skin type. The proper cleanser, toner, exfoliate, and moisturizer will deliver the results that you desire on this glamorous occasion. Choose a reputable cleanser to apply twice daily, morn- ing and evening. Cleansers are found in foam, gel, and liquid forms over-the-counter at most department and drug stores. Select an appropriate cleanser that leaves skin feeling soft, clear, and “squeaky clean” without over drying. If you have an oily skin type, then utilizing a toner is a must. Incorporate a daily astringent-like toner into your rou- tine. A purifying toner balances the pH of skin, kills bacteria, and also shrinks over-enlarged pores. Toners also renew and refresh the skin. Use a gentle, yet effective exfoliating product 2-3 times per week. Exfoliating more or less than the recommendation is counter-productive. Over-exfoliating can be traumatizing to the skin and cause adverse effects. Under exfoliating will proliferate clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and pustules. -Do exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes of moderate to high intensity every day. Exercise increases blood circulation, which improves skin tone and texture, delivering vital nutrients to skin tissues. -Do schedule a “trial run” 3 weeks in advance with a makeup artist to guarantee no allergic reactions will occur onstage at your pageant, or at any other paramount time during your big day. Queenly Don’ts -Don’t try any new skin products or procedures within a week leading up to your event. Schedule all facial and body waxing services 2 weeks before the pageant and opt for a “touch up” session the week of the pageant . -Don’t wait to consult a dermatologist or esthetician at the last minute. Health care professionals are often busy and it may take months to book an appointment. -Don’t drink heavily caffeinated and carbonated beverag- es. They can reactivate skin problems in people with Rosacia and acne. In addition to cleansing, toning, and exfoliating, moisturizing hydration is paramount in obtaining a flawless, glowing complexion. Apply a water- based hydrating lotion with an SPF of 15+ to neck and work in upward, sweeping motions from neck to forehead, making certain that all areas have been covered. If using a vitamin enriched serum in your regimen, be sure to always apply serums before applying your moisturizer. Before your big event, make sure to follow these simple “do’s” and you will be overjoyed that you did. Queenly Do’s -Do establish a consistent skin care regimen and follow it daily -Do consult a dermatologist or esthetician (skin care therapist) for treatment of advanced skin con- ditions such as recurring acne, scar tissue, and hypo/hyper pigmentation -Do adopt a healthy, balanced eating plan that provides proper nutrition internally. -Do drink plenty of water and herbal teas. Water may flush harmful toxins out of the body and teas contain natural antioxidants that could fight “free radicals”. When anticipating your day, keep these helpful recommenda- tions in mind when developing a consistent skin care regimen that will prepare you to be the “center of attention” as you strut down the stage, down the aisle or across the room. With proper implementation, the flawless glowing complexion that all beauty queens desire to have, can, and will be yours. 11