Eat For The Glow!

When I began modeling as a young lady, I learned a lot about being healthy. The mother agency who worked hard to manage and groom their models...looked after us and made sure we were up to par on physical fitness and looks....as to book jobs. They were adamant about this "Miracle" eating regimen that gave good skin and a great physique. I was young, with naturally dewy skin and a fast metabolism, so I didn't quite believe the hype. UNTIL that is... I saw the most shocking transformation ever. One of the newer models they had brought on, was slightly over weight...for agency standards...but most importantly, had noticeably bad skin. I remember questioning the agency's  purpose, because she just didn't look like the models I'd seen running around the agency. In any case... she was put on the same supposed "Miracle Diet" and the grooming began. It hadn't been 3 weeks when I saw her again, and I was ASTOUNDED by the biggest metamorphosis on any human I'd ever seen. And I am not talking about her weight either...yes she got thin.....but her skin had miraculously transformed from this, bumpy inflamed surface, to skin so perfect....that she looked like a porcelain doll. 
Well this supposed "Miracle"diet is pretty simple, and it is what I preach to my clients and on this blog. People ask me every day... how I look so young for my age. When I was 30 I looked 20, and now that I'm 40... I look 30! I'm here to tell you it's not genes and it's not rocket science. Eat a diet high in antioxidants, good fats, greens, and lean protein.....low in bad carbs, sugar and salt....and you'll be flaunting that dewy luminous skin that the super models rock. A great physique and healthy mind are all an added bonus. Check for updates on how to make the transition from the diet you know now, to the diet celebrities and super models use and love.

Retinoids....Oh How I Love Thee!

I get bathetic when I talk about this genius invention. These Vitamin A derivatives are the only topical treatment actually proven to regenerate collagen. Retinoids control crucial cellular processes, and suppress inflammation (my favorite topic). Decades of Clinical Research show that they speed up cell turnover to smooth wrinkles, fade sunspots, improve texture, reduce blackheads and minimize pores. Ranella Hirsch from the American Society of Dermatologic Surgeons claims there is profound data to show that "if you use it for 20 years your'e going to look a whole lot better than someone who doesn't."

Albert Kligman, a dermatologist at the University of Pennsylvania discovered Retin-A for the treatment of acne in 1969. By the mid 1980's the patients he was treating for acne reported they're wrinkles diminishing. He then began studying Retin-A's anti-aging effects. "Since the span beginning of history we've been interested in curing wrinkles, and there have been a million concoctions to reduce them, but for the first time we had evidence that something really worked."

In recent years, Retin-A has been joined by Renova, which also has tretinoin as it's active ingredient but comes in a more moisturizing form. The future of the retinoid family looks promising. "We are constantly learning more about how amazing this stuff is!" says Leslie Bauman, director of the University of Miami Division of  Cosmetic Dermatology. 
Case in point…even retinol, the over the counter vitamin-A derivitive, improves wrinkles, roughness, and overall skin aging. 
Check out Allures recommendation on some great over the counter choices. 

L'ORÉAL PARIS REVITALIFT CLINICAL REPAIR 10 SPF 20 DAY

WHAT SETS IT APART:Compared with other L'Oréal Paris products, it has more retinol (the company would not disclose the exact levels), plus SPF 20.

THE DOCTOR SAYS:"Especially noteworthy is the inclusion of an SPF in this retinol-treatment product," says dermatologist Ranella Hirsch. "And at $24.99, it's a good bang for your buck."

ROC RETINOL CORREXION SENSITIVE NIGHT CREAM

WHAT SETS IT APART:
RoC's time-released formula slows absorption of retinol into the skin, limiting redness and dehydration.

THE DOCTOR SAYS:
"Their studies report that 96 percent of women with previous sensitivity to retinoids experienced no redness or irritation," says Hirsch. "That is like catnip to a dermatologist." $22.99

SKINMEDICA TRI-RETINOL COMPLEX ES

WHAT SETS IT APART:
With a high concentration of retinol (1 percent), this formula delivers the punch of its prescription-only counterparts. The vitamin-A delivery system minimizes the odds of irritation—a boon for those with sensitive skin. It gradually helps skin look more radiant and refreshed.

THE DOCTOR SAYS:
"This is similar to tretinoin, which is available only from a doctor," says Day. "It gets results comparable to a prescription product." 

LA ROCHE-POSAY REDERMIC [R] INTENSIVE ANTI-AGING CORRECTIVE TREATMENT

WHAT SETS IT APART:
Lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) exfoliates so the retinol can penetrate more easily.

THE DOCTOR SAYS:
"The LHA creates less of a barrier, so the skin can soak up more retinol without added irritation. Plus, it's paraben-free for those with allergies," says dermatologist Doris Day. $55.95