About Me

NEW YORK, NY, United States
Im a freelance makeup artist and skin therapist. www.ginanicora.com

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Thursday, June 10, 2010

DEAR DIARY "WHAT SHOULD I DO ABOUT MY UNWANTED HAIR"




The first day of Summer is here! This means it's time to show some skin and get rid of your unwanted hair. The question is "What's the best way to remove unwanted hair?" The most permanent way to remove hair is electrolysis. The next most permanent option is laser hair removal. If you are not ready to commit to the electrolysis or laser process then pain-free waxing is another excellent option. If you are considering any hair removal option it is important to know all the information so you can choose the best method is right for you.

Let's start with what you need to know about electrolysis. First, electrolysis is the only FDA approved method for permanent hair removal on the market today. The process of electrolysis works by using a pre-sterilized disposable needle like electrode that is inserted into each hair follicle to destroy the root using electric current. There are three types of electrolysis known as galvanic, thermolysis and blended. The first step is to find an expert technician. I have the pleasure to work with one of the best. Marta Rodriguez of Skin Laser Studios has been doing electrolysis for over 30 years with great success. The next step is know what the pros and cons are. The pros are that it works on all skin types, skin tones and hair colors,is the most permanent option and works well for small areas. The cons are that it can be painful, time consuming and there are some unpleasant temporary side effects like redness, swelling and sometimes scabbing. So the question "Who is the best candidate for electrolysis ?" The best candidates are women and men who have blond, red or grey hair, don't respond to laser hair removal, those looking to treat a small area like eyebrows or underarms and have already tried laser hair removal without success. The average number of sessions needed really depends on the person and can be as many as up to 30 over a year long period or longer. The average price is about $70 per hour but session are usually broken down into 15 minute and 30 minute sessions the comfort level of both the client and technician.

The next method and most popular has become laser hair removal. Laser hair removal works by the use of an invisible beam of light and a constant source of heat that penetrates and destroys the follicle while preserving the surrounding skin. I'm a big fan of laser hair removal not only because I'm a technician but because I'm also a client. I've had great success. The ideal candidate for laser hair removal has fair skin and dark hair, those who want to work on large areas of the body and are tired of waxing and shaving. There are several different types of lasers on the market known as the Alexandrite, Ruby, Diode and LD and ND Yag. I highly recommend the Alexandrite Gentle Lase by Candela. This is the laser I work with and has done an amazing job on my own hair! It's quick and very minimal pain. The average number of treatments needed for optimum results are anywhere from 3-6 and in some case more.It is important to remember that hair grows in different stages. The laser can only treat hairs that are in the active growth phase so it will take several treatments to treat the hair as it grows in different phases. The average cost per session varies based on the area of the body but the average starting price is around $200/300+up and less for smaller areas.

If you are you not ready for electrolysis or laser hair removal,waxing is still a quick and inexpensive way to be hair-free and smooth for Summer. The question is 'What is the key to a quick, pain-free and expert wax?" The key is product and technique! I personally love to work with Cirepil. This company has been in business over 30 years and is recognized worldwide for providing the finest in depilatory products. Cirepil's products maintain the integrity of the skin, are clean and neat to use and their superior anti-irritant ingredients ensure less inflammation. I've learned my advanced speed waxing technique from the world renown International Dermal Institute. The combination of amazing product and excellent technique allow me to give a top-notch professional service. I especially love the pre-wax cleanser, as well as the pre-wax oil that protects the skin and allows for the wax to adhere to the hair not the skin for a quick pain-free experience! Then for the finishing touch, the post waxing cooling gel made with botanical extracts.


Thursday, June 3, 2010

COLOR ME CORAL!!







Summer is almost here and it's about color. One color in particular stood out on the runways for Spring/Summer 2010. The looks ranged from bold matte coral lips at Sonya Rykiel, soft coral cheeks and eyes at Theory and a coral gloss at Max Azria.

I found some amazing products that can take these looks from "catwalk to sidewalk" on a budget! The first is an online exclusive palette form Bobbi Brown. It includes 4 lip shades and 4 neutral shadows to pair with a bolder coral lip for day for $60. What a steal $8.50 per shade! Then for my "must have" splurge is the new Chanel blush In Love form the Cote D' Azur Collection which retails for $45.