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Japanese Rice and SAKE = Radiant Skin

 

Did you know that drinking Sake is good for your skin????  The Japanese perceive sake as their "Fountain of Youth."  They drink it to achieve beautiful skin and some will go as far as bathing in it to prevent the effects of aging. But what is it about sake that makes skin so silken and beautiful?

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Sake is made from rice, a staple in the Japanese diet. The high nutrient content of rice includes the  B complex of vitamins and minerals. Externally it can be used as an exfoliant or in a spritzer to hydrate the skin. It can also be used in a bath, if you are not inclined to drink it. 

The fermentation process entails removing the hull and germ from unmilled rice. The rice is then steamed and fermented using yeast and bacteria. The process breaks the rice down to a low molecular weight, allowing the molecules to deeply penetrate the skin down to the keratin layer. 

Home recipe:  Try this simple recipe. Boil Japanese rice (Oryza sativa var. Japonica) making sure the rice is covered by at least 1 inch of water. Your will be using the water, so you want to ensure the rice does not absorb it all.  Strain the water from the rice, let it cool, and use it as a face wash or wash your hair with it.

The rice water acts as a toner, reduces the appearance of pores, and adds shit to your hair.  And while you are boiling the rice, why not enjoy a cup of sake? Maybe you will experience twice the benefit!

From Associated Skin Care Professionals, written by Shelley Burns, Doctor of naturopothatic medicine.

Posted: by Lilly Rivera                                                                                                                                           BridalGal Multi Cultural Beauty,   www.bridalgal.com

Ginger Root, to your beauty!

. Growing up in the Caribbean, I am very familiar with the taste and bite of ginger root. One of my favorite flavors.  It is used in Caribbean food, such as deserts, curries and other tasty dishes, it’s benefits surpass more than its wonderful warm and spicy flavor, it’s good for you”.  One of ginger’s active enzymes, zingibain, reduces inflammation, reducing the risk of acne, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions.

 

Ginger’s antimicrobial and antiseptic properties can also kill the bacteria  that causes acne. It promotes skin elasticity and firmness due to it’s antioxidants ginerol and shogoal, which have both been shown to fight skin damaging free radicals.
To achieve these skin benefits, I advocate using actual ginger root. Why take capsules when you can use the root? It is cost effective and has a great return on investment and it tastes great. It is also a wonderful warming spice with which to cook with.

Food
 
Oatmeal:  Adding a bit of spice to your oatmeal (I boil a few slivers, add cloves and boil and add the oatmeal) sweeten, or add raisins, cranberries, berries.  Yumm!

 

Tea:  It is so easy to use to make a cup of tea.  Peel the ginger root and cut into thin strips. Steep the strips in a cup of boiled water for about 10-15 minutes. If you wish, sweeten the tea and add other spices such as cinnamon and clove along with agave nectar.

Indian and Chinese Food: It is often used in Indian,  Chineese, Caribbean dishes and in desserts

Salad dressing:  Grate the root, mix with Rice Vinegar, a little Sesamee Seed oil and use as dressing to your favorite vegies. I like to add Flax Seeds to my salads for additional omega 3s. (great for skin and heart health too. 

Skin Care 
Toner:  Brew tea, let cool, use it as a toner or refresher water by spraying it on the face.
Moisturizer: You can add a drop of ginger essential oil to your daily moisturizer. 

Pain
   Massage the painful  area with the essential oil diluted in a carrier oil. (Do not use directly on skin). Please note, the essential oil itself, is not for internal use.    

Feeling Sexy????   Some say it could also work as an aphorodisiac due to it’s promotion of blood circulation. Try it!

 

 

From: Skin Deep Magazine by Sheley Burns, Dr. of Naturopathic Medicine.

& Lilly Rivera www.bridalgal.com

 

Peel it! Bring in the new BODY

Renewal and spring cleaning are always top of mind this time of year. We turn our attentions to discarding the old to make way for the new, and shedding the dull of winter in exchange for the vibrant, youthfulness of spring. As important as this renewal process is for nature, it is just as necessary for our skin.

Rejuvenating treatments are essential for clearing away dead winter cells and preparing the skin for summer. This is true of all skin, so think beyond only treating the face and explore how you can achieve whole body radiance. This will likely be a major concern for days spent in sun dresses and tank tops and don't forget, OUR BRIDES!

Why Body Peels?

In a simple answer skin is skin, and regardless of where it is on the body it ages just as our faces do and is subject to the same harmful environmental elements. By treating the body with the same ingredients we use for facial rejuvenation, you can achieve healthy, radiant skin all over.

Body peels, much like facial peels, work beyond just the surface to reduce course texture and fine lines, diminish age spots and hyperpigmentation, and help maintain healthier, more youthful looking skin. Peels are like a workout for the skin, you will notice an almost immediate difference in firmness, clarity and brightness which most of us want as we head into summer.

What You Need to Know

Though many of the formulas used in body peels will match those used in facial peels, there are different techniques and skin issues to be cognizant of before getting a body peel.

Of course, there are a variety of treatments using varying degrees of acids and enzymes to address specific concerns as well as comfort level, and a skin assessment will help determine which is best for you. 

Remember, always protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays by using sun block on the face and don't forget,  the arms and chest where the body is mostly exposed. 

Love the sun DON'T WORSHIP IT! Lilly Rivera for Rhonda Allison Skin Care

YOUR SKIN: Hyperpigmentation? A thing of the past

Posted by: Rhonda Allison Skin at www.rhondaallison.com

and reposted by: Lilly Rivera, BridalGal Radiant Face & Body

Dr. Oz on: Recharging your Skin with Glycolic & Lactic Acid: March 31, 2011

Earlier this week we posted a note on Facebook about the benefits of a skin care regimen that consists of using L-lactic acid and glycolic acid. Though I’ve been touting the benefit of these important AHAs for more than two decades, I was reminded of how this seemingly simple concept has yet to take root in the mainstream world when Dr. Oz brought the issue to forefront on a recent show.

On his show, “Recharge Your Body from the Inside Out,” he talked about the benefits of using a milk compress after cleansing followed by a moisturizer with glycolic acid to restore pH balance, induce cell turnover and hydrate. Though it’s not a new concept, I’m glad that he had the platform to get this message to the masses. Remember the milk acids were used by Cleopatra and are considered an ancient tradition for beauty.

Why does this combination make a difference? The lactic acid, an alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA), not only provides rich hydration and softens the skin, but also exfoliates without provoking irritation. It also treats pigmentation discolorations and reduces wrinkles. Glycolic, also an AHA, removes dead cells, smoothes skin texture and reduces the signs of wrinkles. Since it is a smaller molecule it is able to penetrate cellular walls and actively stimulate collagen production and cell turnover. The combination of the two will lift away dead cells and promote the growth of new ones – without being too harsh – as well as restore hydration and pH balance.

Here’s a nice regimen I recommend for healthy, hydrated and glowing skin: cleanse with a lactic acid such as the Gentle Milk Cleanser (pure milk extracts)

Cleanser, Or Pumkin Cleanser (a lactic acid base) followed by glycolic acid therapy support such as the Skin Smoothing Gel to correct and smooth photo-damaged skin and Moisture Au Lait (milk moisturizer) to give skin a soothing nourishing finish.

This natural, all-purpose daily cleanser removes surface residue and protects against free radical damage. Pumpkin has a high content of vitamin A and beta carotene, two potent antioxidant ingredients; combined with natural surface-reducing lipids and essential oils, Pumpkin Cleanser provides important nutrition for the skin. With a wonderfully appealing scent and gentle enough for ultra sensitive skin, Pumpkin Cleanser cleanses deeply for normal to oily skin types. If pumpkin is drying for some skins, recommend mixing with Gentle Milk Cleanser for a creamy, luscious cleanse.

Lilly: I have seen huge improvements with my clients over the past couple of months. Clearing up sun damaged skin, acne and hyperpigmentation takes a little time, lot's of "home work"(consistant and appropriate skin care regimen) The results will amaze you. In a short period time, you can definitely see improvements. Enought to make you want to continue.

For more information, a free evaluation, you can contact me directly at bridalgal@aol.com

Till next time.

Brighten your day!

Lilly Rivera, Lic Esthetician, NYS, Pro Makeup Artist, www.bridalgal.com

WE MOVED! 336 W 37th St., Suite 600, NY, NY 10018

Powerhouse against wrinkles and dull aged skin

Worried your skin is no longer as youthful looking as it used to be?  A lot has to do with environmental factors, stress, hormones among other things, and lack of attention to ourselves and taking care of our skin.  Before we know it, goodness, where did time go and why am i looking older and "duller" .  BridalGal Radiant Face & Body provides the newest science in Anti Aging and Aging formulations with Rhonda Allison time tested formulas to take care of these concerns now and to prevent and reverse aged looking skin. As a bride to be, it is necessary to have this in mind for that flawless radiant look which is mostly requested and can only be achieved with makeup.  By taking care of your skin, you can achieve that look without any makeup at all.  It's for real!  

Product of the Month:  Satin Peptide

Intelligent Skin Care

With a new mitochondria formulation driven by a special nano-complex for quick delivery into the skin, Satin Peptide is potent blend of active "age-defying" peptides, hydrators, and antioxidants for serious age management.  With added advantages from rice proteins for strengthening and hydration and resveratrol for potent antioxidant support for potent age-reducing support, Rhonda Allison's Satin Peptide is an age-defying serum like none other.

NEW

• Added strengthening and firming benefits from rice (peptide) protein
• Resveratrol from the Giant Knot Weed for powerful antioxidant support
• A powerhouse mitochondria complex to fight against aging skin
• A potent peptide formulation to stimulate collagen synthesis offering an alternative to collagen injections
• The newest generation of biomemetic peptides which substitutes for natural skin growth factors to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

 

For more information or to purchase this product, and to get your complimentary  $25.00 gift certificate (for facial and treatments only)  please contact Lilly Rivera, bridalgal@aol.com  917-330-1913.

 

New Year, Beautiful SKIN!

Our new year's resolution:  Exersise, diet, healthier lifestyle, SKIN! Yes Skin.

How wonderful to be able to wear minimal makeup and still look radiant!!! The better the skin condition, the less maintenance, makeup and tips and tricks are needed.

We’re always searching for that infamous fountain of youth, when we really ought to be turning our attention to something much larger: the ocean. The ocean contains several powerful deep-sea micro-organisms that are extremely beneficial to the skin, and work to rejuvenate and fight the signs of aging. Three of which we have blended into our product, the newly  enhanced Sea Gems  form our primary skin care line, Rhonda Allison, to reduce wrinkle formation, protect against DNA damage, and deliver oxygen to and strengthen skin tissue.

Three Ocean Gems Sea Gems, comprises specialized strains from the ocean’s depths, new fruit cell culture technology, and an advanced nano-complex to rejuvenate the skin. The oceanic ingredients come from various bacterial genera living near deep-sea hydrothermal vents and contain extraordinary molecules that promote youthful skin. One of the strains included is Thermus Thermophilus Ferment Extract, a powerful antioxidant and detoxifying enzyme activated by heat and light. It improves epidermal structural integrity and functionality, limits free-radical damage and supports the skin with biomimetic enzymes. The other strains include Alteromonas Ferment Extract and Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, which improve skin texture, stabilize lipid membranes and proteins, and rebuild and repair skin tissues.

These ingredients have been shown to improve skin appearance and fight the signs of aging caused by daily stresses.  This versatile serum is an excellent part of post care for many procedures including skin peels, microdermabrasion, and IPL/Laser. A primary benefit during the trauma stage is its ability to minimize heat and erythema in the skin - thermal reduction properties make this a real star for post care. Beyond the healing stage of skin, Sea Gems will take the skin to a new level of rejuvenation - continuing to rebuild and regenerate skin tissue. This makes it an ideal companion for many daily home regimens.

Make the decision to have more radiant and beautiful skin, wear less makeup. Skin, is the ultimate  the best accessory.   For more information, and to get your $25.00 Gift Certificate for facial treatments, please contact Lilly Rivera, bridalgal@aol.com 917-330-1913

Till later.

Lilly Rivera, Lic. Esthetician, NYS

BridalGal Radiant Face & Body

Younger skin, eat, be merry and Happy Thanksgiving!

Fall harvest is such a bountiful time of year. And many of the ingredients traditionally found on the Thanksgiving table – cranberries, pomegranates, apples, pumpkin, grapes and herbs – deliver a wealth of nutrients to the body. Those same ingredients  also do so for the skin.

Of course these ingredients are only as healthy as the recipes they are used in – they can be antioxidant powerhouses or become devoid of any nutritional value. Skin care formulations are no different. Ingredient combinations and levels, quality, and the science of Chirality all play significant roles in the effectiveness of these fall staples.   

   

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Thanksgiving Table to Treatment Room

Many of the fruits of fall boast extremely high antioxidant counts. Take the pomegranate  for instance, it is said to have three times the antioxidant power of red wine and green tea! When combined with ingredients like Tocopherol or Resveratrol in cosmeceutical formulations, it becomes even more powerful. The antioxidant count skyrockets, and it becomes an accomplice in fighting free radicals and stimulating cellular proliferation.  

Pumpkin, which contains a wide spectrum of vitamin A derivatives, when combined with D-Alpha Tocopherol (the chiral form of Vitamin E) becomes not only an age-reversal formula, but also a free-radical scavenger with moisturizing and preservation properties.  

There are several ingredient combinations that become powerhouse formulas when the science of Chirality is applied. Our Rhonda Allison skin care, contains several fall favorites and formulations full of antoixidant power. A list below:

• Pomegranates (Punica Granatum) – Found in the Cherry Jubilee Enzyme and Pomegranate Enzyme/Mask.
• Cranberries (Vassinium Macrocarpon) – Found in the Cranberry Scrub
• Pumpkins (Cucurbita Pepo) – Found in the Pumpkin Parfait Enzyme, Pumpkin E Serum , Pumpkin Peel, Pumpkin Rinse, and Pumpkin Cleanser
• Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Basil) – Found in the Amino Peptide Serum, Peptide 3-n-1 Eye Cream, Glycolic Herbal Wash and Italian Herbal Peel
• Apples (Pyrus Malus/Malic Acid-L) – Found in the Organic A, Apple Mist, Apple Wine Peel and Bio Reform 28
• Grapes (Vitis Vinifera) – Found in the Satin Peptide Serum, Antioxidant Complex Serum, MVC Serum, Grape Seed Hydrating Serum, Grape Seed Parfait Mask, and Blushed Wine Gel

This season, fall and winter, keep your skin protected from the environment, dryness, craking, dehydration is inevitable if you are not protecting your skin.  Wrinkling and aging skin can be reduced. Include antioxidant protection in your daily routine, drink water, protect with spf 30 and rest.  You will notice a dramitacal difference when you look in the mirror and by the way your skin will feel.

It's time to take care of the largest beauty organ in your body! Protect it.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Rhonda Allison

by:  Lilly Rivera, BridalGal Radiant Face & Body, NYC 917-330-1913

 

How to keep younger skin with anti oxidant support

Are Antioxidants Truly Important to Skin Health?

Rhonda Allison Skin Care 

Indeed! This is especially true today as our skin is regularly assaulted by a number of environmental agers – sun, pollutants, lack of sleep, and the list goes on.

 We know oxidation causes free radicals, which damages our cells, and breaks down collagen and elastin, increasing the rate at which fines lines and wrinkles appear.

Antioxidants work to disable free radicals and prevent cell damage by inhibiting the oxidation of other molecules. An interesting fact, however, is that antioxidants are actually oxidized themselves, which is what enables them to effectively terminate oxidation chain reactions. Although increased inflammation is noted as the key factor to aging, it is important to remember that it is free radical damage that causes inflammation.   It's important the use of antioxidants in skin care to maintanin healthy and younger looking skin  between treatments.

Getting Antioxidant Support

As we age, our bodies produce fewer antioxidants and more free radicals. Since antioxidants are not stored by the body, we routinely have to replenish them, both internally and topically. Each produces different benefits for the body. It never hurts to remind clients of the antioxidant-rich foods they could be including in their diet:

• Pomegranates
• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Leafy-green vegetables like kale and spinach
• Almonds and walnuts

Our base for our antioxidant formulas, regardless of the source was developed to be easily absorbed. These ingredients can be found in:

• Grape Seed Hydrating Serum
• Super C Serum
• Antioxidant Complex Serum
• Therapy E and Pumpkin E Serum
• Satin Peptide Serum
• Sea Gems

All available at our treatment room and used in most of our treatments.

It is important to maintain your treatments at home and protecting your skin with effective antioxidant support.  For any questions about what antioxidant formula is best for you, contact me directly at our skin treatment studio.

Till later

Lilly Rivera, BridalGal  917-330-1913

Antioxidants: Skin must haves!

Are Antioxidants Truly Important to Skin Health?

Posted by Rhonda Allison on 11-03-2010

 

Indeed! This is especially true today as our skin is regularly assaulted by a number of environmental agers – sun, pollutants, lack of sleep, and the list goes on.

Oxidation causes free radicals, which damages our cells, and breaks down collagen and elastin, increasing the rate at which fines lines and wrinkles appear.

Antioxidants work to disable free radicals and prevent cell damage by inhibiting the oxidation of other molecules. Antioxidants are actually oxidized themselves, which is what enables them to effectively terminate oxidation chain reactions. Although increased inflammation is noted as the key factor to aging, it is important to remember that it is free radical damage that causes inflammation.   I'ts important that you use rich topicals to maintain healthy skin in between treatments.

Getting Antioxidant Support

As we age, our bodies produce fewer antioxidants and more free radicals. Since antioxidants are not stored by the body, we routinely have to replenish them, both internally and topically. Each produces different benefits for the body. It never hurts to remind clients of the antioxidant-rich foods they could be including in their diet:

• Pomegranates
• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Leafy-green vegetables like kale and spinach
• Almonds and walnuts

These ingredients can be found in our specialized and highly concentrated serums such as:

• Grape Seed Hydrating Serum
• Super C Serum
• Antioxidant Complex Serum
• Therapy E and Pumpkin E Serum
• Satin Peptide Serum
• Sea Gems

Bottom line, be sure to start using antioxidant protection (A TOTAL MUST) during the day for optimum protection from free radical damage.

To schedule complimentary consultation on your skin needs you can contact me at bridalgal@aol.com

Have a wonderful day! And always stay YOUNGER!

Lilly Rivera, BridalGal

www.bridalgal.com

Perfect treatment "Before your wedding" makeup.

Signature Treatment - Enzyme & Mask Trio

Beautiful skin doesn't have to be a one time thing.  Our treatments get our clients great results even after the first facial. 

Below is one or our most popular beauty facials.

The Enzyme Trio Facial

This three-step enzyme treatment begins with the Pepsin & Papain Enzyme, a blend of two enzymes and pineapple fruit extracts that gently begins the transformation of skin.  It prepares the skin for cell digestion and surface exfoliation while under a soothing steam bath.  The Maui Enzyme Peel, (Bromelain Extracts and L-Lactic Acid) with its enticing scents of the Hawaiian Islands, begins deeper tissue softening and regeneration.  It is massaged into skin until skin feels like butter.

The finale' enzyme is Cherry Jubilee (a phyto-nutrient enzyme of cherries, pomegranate, apple, grapes, and pineapple) which infuses antioxidants into skin, giving it a glowing and radiant finish.  A heated wet wrap is applied to skin for enhanced benefits and to deepen relaxation.

Hyaluronic

• The Milk Parfait Lift Mask gives skin all-important nutrients while toning and firming skin tissue.  This is a blend of our Lift Mask, Milk Mask Grape Seed Parfait Mask.

• Skin is spritzed with Rhonda Allison humectant spray of amino acids, honey, and antioxidants for optimum hydration.  Light tapotement supports liquid absorption. 
• The combination daytime moisture support of Ultra Hydration and Daytime Defense SPF30 leaves skin ready to face the elements.

Skin is awakened and nourished and the effects last for weeks

targets dehydration, depletion from environmental elements, free radical damage, and dull, slackened skin tissue.  Following a deep cleansing, the skin is treated with a combination of three which will deliver a potent dose of antioxidants, as well as smooth, rebuild and purify the skin.  This signature treatment will awaken the senses with delicious aromas and soothing sensations.  

Serum ~ Amino Peptide Serum ~ Super C Serum ~ Therapy E Serum blended together and smoothed into skin, followed with a few drops of Omega VI and a stimulating facial massage. FABULOUS!

Till next time

Lilly Rivera

BridalGal Radiant Face & Body

www.rhondaallison.com

www.bridalgal.comn