Beauty, Skincare and Sun Protection
We’ve finally fallen in love with the Asian influences in skincare routines that have become all the rage in the U.S.; but better late than never! If you’re not already familiar with the beauty resulting from Asian skincare techniques, let me explain. Koreans, in particular, have a daily skincare regimen consisting of about thirty different steps. Yes, thirty! Just imagine having that kind of time. Anyway, also within this regimen are several lightening steps that do not include the use of “hydroquinone”; a carcinogen many Americans use to achieve the same results.
In addition to taking a chemical-free approach, Asian skincare frowns upon any sun exposure whatsoever. Sun spots would indicate that you work as a laborer outside in the fields. And frankly that’s just not something a proper lady wants to portray. (Hey, it’s a job right?)
Another difference between Asian and American skincare is that Asians are RAISED not to tan. Wisely, they’re taught to protect their skin from the elements. Because of this, and also due to the care and concern they continually show their skin, they age more gracefully. In fact they don’t show the usual, visible signs of aging until much later in life. It’s part of their enculturation from a young age to take care of their skin. Unlike Americans, who for some reason mistakenly think that having a “healthy glow” is the key to achieving a younger, thinner, taller, “healthier” look.
Typically Americans begin their anti-aging regimens when they first notice signs of aging and, unfortunately, not before. Using anti-aging treatments in conjunction with sunscreen should be part of a daily routine from as early an age as possible. Preventing sun exposure will help to slow down those visible signs, and also improve the long-term health of the skin. (Please review my previous post about photosensitivity).
In addition to being a Melanoma Survivor, I also co-own a multi-national anti-aging skincare company that is growing in leaps and bounds. Our East-meets-West philosophy, chemical-free ingredients (paraben, sulfate, fragrance and alcohol free) and convenience of use is what first encouraged many celebrities to love our product. Indeed, their embrace of our brand helped bring it to the forefront of the industry. And for the sake of that convenience, we took those thirty steps and incorporated them into one, easy-to-use delivery method. After all, we’re a convenience society; are we not?
My love of skin and its well-being is evident in everything that I’ve done in the fashion and beauty industry for over twenty years. Growing a multi-national, chemical-free anti-aging line, along with helping to sun-protect people’s skin with our Sundicators UV wristbands, gives me such great pleasure every day. I love my job!
Xo