Wellness Posts by David Pollock

Tired of the Same Old Holiday Gifts? (Try These Ideas)

support@wellness.com — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 08:00:00 Z

Wellness.com - Tired of the Same Old Holiday Gifts? (Try These Ideas) by David Pollock

Is it just me or does it get more and more difficult every year to find those special gifts that stand apart from the traditional mall fodder as unique or original? - A candle even for a candle lover seems predictable, overdone and just plain blah after so many seasons of giving. The same can be said for bath sets, food baskets, calendars, etc. For many of us the decision to "keep it modest this year" means that we find ourselves giving and receiving the same sorts of things over and over again, even when those items aren't even on someone's list. Why not break the pattern and try something original this year with these holiday gift giving tips and tricks? - A DIY Beauty Gift Basket Or "Beauty Cocktail"-
Why not make some homemade beauty recipes online, purchase the ingredients, package and label them in jars or containers that could be reused, and present them along with the recipe cards in a bath or shower basket? For a smaller stocking stuffer type gift, you could also make "beauty cocktails" by putting the finished recipe in inexpensive wine or cocktail glasses, painting or writing with permanent ink markers the recipe on the glass, and then decorating it with a fun design. Most craft stores carry stocking stuffer-sized treat or apothecary style jars as well as all the bits and baubles you will need to personalize to your heart's content. Pinterest is a great source for crafty DIY projects. Check out -www.pinterest/justaskdavid- for some great DIY beauty recipes.

-Use Re-Usable Grocery Bags In Place Of Gift Bags-
Re-usable grocery bags are inexpensive (.99 at many local supermarkets), come in various sizes, and now feature a variety of patterns and colors that change seasonally. Instead of using a traditional gift bag that will just be discarded or stored after the gift is opened, package gifts in environmentally friendly re-usable gift bags that can be used throughout the year.

-Give Someone The Gift Of Youth...Literally-
Everyone loves beauty and skin care products. Here's a creative idea that will take them back to their childhood days and they'll love you for it. Package a favorite moisturizer, anti-aging serum, and/or eye cream in a lunchbox with a throwback logo or design and include a childhood candy, toy or game, and t-shirt or socks that feature pop icons from her childhood days. These days, it's easy to find superheroes, 80's video game characters, and popular cartoon characters on merchandise at many big box stores. Amazon, eBay, and even vintage stores are also great resources for finding such items. A quick internet search for your local comic shop may lead to a treasure trove of nostalgia for you. My local shop is like a wonderland. Aside from the modern comics and cartoons the place is stocked to the brim with items featuring the Thundercats, Ghostbusters, Mario Bros, Jem and the Holograms and even She-Ra! Tuck a card inside the case or lunchbox that discloses the theme of the gift "forever young." - Have a Christmas Crafting Party!-
Invite your friends to bring enough supplies and instructions for a craft they love to distribute to everyone at the party. Then spend the day crafting away. When you're done, you'll have a variety of interesting and, more importantly, original gifts and stocking stuffers. If one of your friends has a certain craft forte that you don't or vice versa, you can each make your specialty project for one another then exchange them at the end of the day. If your friends aren't the crafty type you can search for local artists and craft festivals online - many of the artists will happily do custom work or teach their craft and it's a great way to expand your social circle. All of these ideas will put a fresh spin on your gifts and make your gift original enough to stand out among standard holiday gift giving fare! - Share this article with friends by clicking the links above or posting a link on your Facebook page.

David Pollock is a global beauty expert who has formulated products for some of the most recognized names in the business. He is a published author, radio personality and was recently named one of the "20 to Know" by Global Cosmetics Industry. Today, David is empowering women to take control of their health and beauty. Subscribe to his free newsletter at www.JustAskDavid.com.

Snack Healthy - The Sweet Tooth Edition

support@wellness.com — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:07:49 Z

Wellness.com - Snack Healthy - The Sweet Tooth Edition by David Pollock

I know a person who spends hours working out every day - 6 days a week. He has been doing this for the last 60 days and has not lost a single lb. How is that possible? The answer is quite simple - he never changed his diet!
When it comes to looking good and feeling good, healthy weight plays an important role and experts agree that a major factor is what you eat. Most of us can manage to figure out a healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner. Where almost everyone falls off track is mastering the fine art of snacking.
I know I have a sweet tooth, but here is a list of some secretly healthy sweet snacks that I have learned that if I can keep on-hand, they will help me get through the day and keep me away from the drive-thru or vending machine:
1. Banana Chips dipped in Dark Chocolate: Bananas are packed with Vitamin A, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients, and they're a great source of slow-release carbs to keep you feeling energized for longer. Dark chocolate is one of the best and tastiest sources of antioxidants a person can have if it's at least 70% cocoa.
2. Fruit and Yogurt Parfait: Make your own at home! Use the fruits and yogurts you like most, and why not, add some of your favorite nuts (especially almonds and walnuts) while you're at it! The vitamins and minerals in fruits and nuts are great for you, the yogurt is loaded with vitamins and calcium and studies have shown that yogurt can help reduce belly fat!
3. Low-fat Chocolate Milk: This one is simple - it's got chocolate! The milk is full of calcium and vitamins and will help fill you up. As long as it's low-fat you don't need to feel too guilty about it!
4. Baked Apples: Craving apple pie? Ditch the crust and just bake 1/2 an apple for a few minutes. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg and grate some nuts on top after you pull it out of the oven!
5. Pudding: one fat free pudding cup filled with fruit or sliced nuts (or both) can be a great snack. The luxurious pudding will help you mentally feel satisfied and fruit and nuts will boost the health factor!
6. Fruit and Almond Butter: Slice up a sweet fruit, like a pear or a honey crisp apple, and top it with a teaspoon of almond butter. This snack usually clocks in at just under 200 calories and has enough natural sugars and proteins to keep you going through the day.
7. Candy: Okay, let's be honest, sometimes you just want a candy or some ice cream and nothing else is going to satisfy that sweet tooth. When that happens don't get too discouraged - you can still keep things low-calorie. Lots of companies have begun releasing 150 calorie or less packs. The frozen section of your local grocery will almost certainly have low-calorie frozen treats. The trick to this is making sure that you read the labels and stick to the correct serving size!
Remember - small changes here and there are what make a real difference in your life over time. Replacing a chocolate bar, Twinkie, cupcake, etc. with one of these healthier tasty options can be an easy step towards a healthier you!

David Pollock is a global beauty expert who has formulated products for some of the most recognized names in the business. He is a published author, radio personality and was recently named one of the "20 to Know" by Global Cosmetics Industry. Today, David is empowering women to take control of their health and beauty. Subscribe to his free newsletter at www.JustAskDavid.com.

Don't I Ever Outgrow Adult Acne?

support@wellness.com — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:03:48 Z

Wellness.com - Don't I Ever Outgrow Adult Acne? by David Pollock

When I think about what things were like when I was a teenager I can't help but make this strange expression that looks like something in between a smile and a grimace. I'm sure most of you make the same face. Being a teenager was fun, it was first loves and first tastes of freedom - but it was also greasy foreheads and relentless acne. When you finally grow out of those pimples you breathe a sigh of relief thinking the pimples and blemishes are just another awkward teen memory.
Then, for many of you, adult life brought with it not only the stresses and freedoms of adulthood, but also adult acne. What is adult acne and why is it different from the acne many people have as teenagers? What are some of the major causes? How do you treat it? Let's start by talking about what makes adult acne different from teenaged acne.
As teenagers the breakouts most of people have tend to be located along the t-zone (the forehead, nose, and chin) and are, for the most part, caused by the sudden fluctuation of hormones of puberty. That is why that type of acne tends to just go away on its own after puberty has passed. Adult acne, too, can be caused by hormonal fluctuations (especially during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause or on certain medications) but these breakouts are more common along the lower part of the face like the cheeks below the cheekbone, the chin, and the jaw line.
Most teenagers will suffer from blackheads, whiteheads, larger pustules and cystic acne. Adult acne will appear in any and all of those forms but adults are also prone to the added joys of rosacea (but that is an entirely different conversation).
Now that we understand some of the differences between teen acne and adult acne let's talk about what the major causes of adult acne are. As I said before, hormones certainly play into adult acne. Other culprits could be stress, imbalanced diet, makeup and skincare products, and even your hairstyle!
Stress releases hormones that cause your body to release other hormones to counteract them, the hormonal flood can often send your complexion into a tailspin. Many people mistakenly assume greasy foods or chocolate cause acne. Studies have shown that is not really the case - the major culinary criminal in the case of adult acne is actually the sugar in the candy bars or other candy, as well as high-glycemic-index carbs like white bread, pasta, potatoes, etc. Yes, the wrong foods can spike insulin levels, leading to a chemical imbalance and, in turn, acne.
What about topical acne treatments? Well, here's something that will surprise you. Traditional acne creams and lotions contain an ingredient that can actually irritate your skin and make problem worse. That's right, your efforts to clear your skin may actually be adding fuel to the fire. These products disrupt your skin's natural acidic pH, chip away at your skin's protective layer and actually trigger production of sebum. To avoid these types of products, I prefer gel or gel-cream type formulations that avoid harmful ingredients like PEG's, Glycols and soap-based emulsifiers (often listed as Self-Emulsifying Wax or Polysorbate).

For DIY / chemical-free skin care product recipes, more advice, or to ask a question, visit www.JustAskDavid.com.

Nature's Own Anti-Wrinkle Solutions

support@wellness.com — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 18:33:10 Z

Wellness.com - Nature's Own Anti-Wrinkle Solutions by David Pollock

Now you can avoid those expensive creams and save those extra bucks for that new blouse you have been eyeing!

Have you been spending a fortune on the latest beauty products that promise a cure for wrinkles? Are you concerned about spending all your hard earned money on popular, celebrity advertised products that may not be as effective as promoted?

Keep reading, because I want to help you unravel some of the best kept secrets Mother Nature has created for you. By making a few simple changes in your skin care regimen and your diet, you can release nature's own solutions for anti-aging. You will not only reduce those wrinkles and crow's feet, but you will also become a more health conscious individual. You may even start glancing at the label to see what natural goodies are in the beauty products you buy.

Are you facing this?
Are you tired looking at a face with crow's feet around the eyes and visible wrinkles around your mouth? Are you tired of sporting sagging facial skin and puffy, tired eyes? Or are you tired of having a dull, lifeless complexion?

Remember, no one skin product can suddenly reverse the years of damage to your skin, nor instantly transform it to younger looking skin.

The best advice I can give is to take care of your skin, from the inside out. Watch what you put on your skin and what you put in to your body.

Go Green (Tea)
I use green tea in many of my anti-aging skin care formulations. It's the flavonoids and the anti-oxidants present in green tea that can prove to be one of the best solutions for fighting wrinkles, if consumed regularly. They fight the free radicals that can accelerate the signs of aging.

I suggest looking for a moisturizer or serum that contains green tea, as well as drinking a soothing cup of green tea during your afternoon break or maybe an iced green tea after your workout routine.

Anti-oxidant Rich Fruits
There are two ways to achieve a beautiful skin. While one way to get a gorgeous skin is through Vitamin E, the other one would be through consumption of Anti-Oxidants!

Fruits like strawberries and pomegranates are packed with plenty of antioxidants. Making them part of your regular diet will naturally boost your skin's glow while making the wrinkles less noticeable.

Veggies Like Red Beans Are Good Too!
Increase the intake of Red beans in your food, as it contains a high concentration of anti-oxidants. Plus, you gain the benefit of the fiber content, which helps reduce your blood pressure level and the risk of cancer too.

Reward Yourself!
Just like fresh, home-made food has the best natural ingredients, here is a quick and easy at home recipe for a "Sweet" Facial Mask.

Honey - Almond Exfoliating Mask
2 Tablespoons Honey
2 Tablespoons Finely Ground Almonds
2 Strawberries
Couple Pieces Cut Up Pomegranate
1 Teaspoon Powdered Clay (Bentonite, Red Earth etc.)
4 Tablespoons Oatmeal
Water

Combine ingredients in a bowl and mix in to a paste. Add a little water, if necessary. To use, splash face with warm water. Massage mix over face. Let set for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and Voila!

Just a little fruits, vegetables and soothing tea and you will see the best in mother nature - you!
You will have glowing, younger looking skin in no time at all! Enjoy the new glamorous you!

I invite you to share this article with friends by clicking the Facebook or Twitter links above.

David Pollock is a global beauty expert who has formulated products for some of the most recognized names in the business. He is a published author, radio personality and was recently named one of the "20 to Know" by Global Cosmetics Industry. Today, David is empowering women to take control of their health and beauty. Subscribe to his free newsletter at www.JustAskDavid.com.

Protect Your Skin with These Sunscreen Secrets

support@wellness.com — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 07:00:00 Z

Wellness.com - Protect Your Skin with These Sunscreen Secrets by David Pollock

It's summer time. It's time to have fun. But, before you dare go outside, you will want to protect your skin from the hot sun.

If you're like me, your head will spin just by looking at all the different sunscreens on the market. So, how do you know which one to buy?

First, it's important to understand that there are two types of sun rays to be concerned with - UV-A rays which causes damage that leads to wrinkles and brown spots and UV-B rays which cause the actual sunburn.

Now that the science lesson is over, it's time to pick an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) that's right for you. And don't worry, all those SPF numbers may seem confusing, but I will decode them for you. Normally, your skin will burn in as little as ten minutes of sun exposure. An SPF 15 screens out 93% of UV-B rays. So where does the number 15 come from? Well, simply put it means that you can stay out in the sun 15 times longer than if no product were used for 150 minutes.

Does that mean an SPF-30 has double the protection? NO! Actually, any sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher will provide only 97-98% protection from the suns UV-B rays.

So, what number is right for you? Obviously, the more protection you have the better, but don't waste your money on products rated above SPF-50 because there is no effective way to test them.

Did you notice that while I was decoding the SPF rating system, we were only discussing UV-B rays or the cause of sunburns? That's because the SPF system does not rate UV-A protection. So, be sure to look for products labeled Broad Spectrum Protection as well as water-proof sunscreen. They will last longer because they don't wash off the minute you jump in the water or have a little fun playing ball.

Once you have found the sunscreen that's right for you, remember that no sunscreen will provide you any benefit - if left in the bottle. Many people quickly smear a little sunscreen over the body and assume they are protected for the day. Here are a few tricks to help get the most out of your sunscreen!

Double check the expiration date on the sunscreen - to make sure the actives are still good as well as shake the bottle before using - to help make sure its mixed and not separating.

Next, apply sunscreen on you and the family 30 minutes before going out in the sun. The active ingredients need time to be absorbed in order to be effective. I suggest that you apply sunscreen before you leave the house and even before you put on your bathing suit.

The key is to make sure all areas are covered with sunscreen - not just the areas you think will be exposed. Cover feet, legs, torso, arms, hands, back, shoulders, neck, and face. Pay special attention to the ears, lips, eyes, and scalp (especially for guys with thinning to no hair). And since most sunscreen lotions can drip and irritate the eyes, consider a stick sunscreen for the face and around the eyes. Try it! Your kids will thank you for it!

How much sunscreen should you use? Sunscreens are formulated so the average person uses about one ounce. That's a lot more than you may have thought, but skimping on the amount you use only defeats the purpose and minimizes the benefits.

Another secret is to reapply, reapply, reapply! That's right - reapply every 2 hours you are in the sun - or even more frequent if you have been swimming or sweating.

With melanoma cases on the rise, it's critical that you properly apply your sunscreen and continue to reapply it - especially if you are going to be in the sun for an extended period of time.

Summer time can be fun, but make sure you follow these tips to help you avoid skin damage and the increased risk of skin cancer for you and your family!

David Pollock, is a global beauty expert who has formulated products for some of the most recognized names in the business. He is a published author, radio personality and was recently named one of the "20 to Know" by Global Cosmetics Industry. Today, David is empowering women to take control of their health and beauty. Subscribe to his free newsletter at www.JustAskDavid.com.

Spring Clean Your Skin

support@wellness.com — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 22:47:15 Z

Wellness.com - Spring Clean Your Skin by David Pollock

Every year around this time, we say good-bye to winter by 'spring cleaning' our homes. Millions of us open up the windows to air things out, we deep clean our closets and dust areas we haven't had the time to touch in months - all to create that fresh and new feeling.

But what about your skin? In the spring I am most often asked what is the best thing to do for dry skin. Most people don't realize that for the last several months, your skin has been cooped up and damaged by exposure to the drying effects of winter.
Don't worry - I have a few simple steps to help you refresh and renew your healthy skin. Keep in mind, this is not about pampering yourself - it's about the essential steps you need for radiant 'spring skin.'

Step 1: OUT WITH THE OLD! I often hear about people using their favorite product sparingly - trying to make them last as long as possible. This is a big mistake- for two major reasons:
If you have a good product- use it! Most products are formulated to be used a certain way. If you use less than the intended amount, you are not going to get the result you are looking for.

Every time you open the product and touch it, you exposing the product to contamination. And, no matter how tight you seal the cap, the product changes due to evaporation. So, I suggest using up the product or throwing it away within six months of first opening the container.

So, go through your bathroom and throw away all makeup and skin care products that are over six months old. Than go ahead and replace them with new, fresh product.

Step 2: MIX IT UP Buying the latest spring make-up trends is not only healthy, but fun. Some people may fear the cost, but it doesn't have to be expensive for you to be prepared for the new season. When you are revamping your make-up box, go for those key essentials (the ones you can't live without). Try finding affordable brands, then replacing your make-up will be a cinch and keeping that youthful in-style glow will be a breeze.

As the season approaches you may find yourself outside more often, which causes a different effect on your skin. As the weather changes, your skin becomes more exposed to humidity and perspiration. I recommend changing your skin care regimen to match your spring and summer lifestyle. Consider lighter, quicker absorbing moisturizers. Try an eye gel instead of an eye cream.
Try some of the newest anti-aging serums that have hit the market. And for those susceptible to age spots and uneven skin tones, consider an age spot treatment - especially if you plan on spending more time outdoors in this new season.

Step 3: SPONGES, LOOFAHS & BRUSHES Every few months you replace your toothbrush because of worn out bristles, and the build-up of bacteria. You should also do the same with your makeup sponges, your bathing sponges, and loofahs. They are a prime hiding place for bacteria, and mold. Look for sponges and loofahs that have a rope, so they can hang and dry out after use.

Makeup brushes can be expensive so, if they are worn or moldy, you really need to throw them away. However, if the brushes just have a build-up of makeup, you can clean them. Tap or shake off any loose powder in to the sink. Then, hold them under very warm running water - with the bristles pointing downwards. Take a small amount of liquid dishwasher soap on your fingertips and gently work through the bristles. Rinse again. Repeat until the water runs clear. Then set aside to dry, before using.

Step 4: OUT WITH THE OLD Now you are ready for the most dramatic step of all! Wash your skin, and remove all your makeup. Exfoliate your skin with a deep physical exfoliator, like an almond, walnut or bamboo scrub. Don't be shy. You want to remove all the old dead skin cells, and reveal the younger skin underneath.

Next, apply your favorite clay mask to purify and revitalize your skin. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse well, washing away impurities. Follow with your treatment serums, moisturizer, and eye gel.

You should instantly see fresh, radiant, younger looking skin - ready to start the new spring season. It's time to put everyone on hold and take a moment for yourself, so you can put a new spring in your step - you deserve it!

David Pollock is a global beauty expert who has formulated products for some of the most recognized names in the business. He is a published author, radio personality and was recently named one of the "20 to Know" by Global Cosmetics Industry. Today, David is empowering women to take control of their health and beauty. Subscribe to his free newsletter at www.JustAskDavid.com.

10 Secrets To Looking Younger INSTANTLY!

support@wellness.com — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:24:16 Z

Wellness.com - 10 Secrets To Looking Younger INSTANTLY! by David Pollock

As we grow older, our bodies start to slow down. Age sets in. But none of us want to admit it. We all want to look our best - as long as we can.

As a beauty expert, I have worked with cover girl models, famous celebrities and formulated anti-aging products for some of the most recognized names in the industry.

But, today, I want to share with you insider secrets that will help you look your best - INSTANTLY and help you AND help you realize how beautiful you really are...

No, I am not talking about some new miracle product. I am talking about a few simple lifestyle changes that can help you turn back the hands of time - quick and easily.

STAND UP STRAIGHT and be proud! You will appear more confident and look younger. Here is a trick, practice standing with your arms down to your side. Next, turn your thumbs outward. Your shoulders automatically go back. Practice this, until standing up straight becomes second nature.

SLEEP - Having a good night sleep of 7 to 8 hours gives your body a chance to rejuvenate itself. With the right amount of sleep, you will wake up looking and feeling younger, more refreshed.

HAIR COLOR - Coloring your hair to hide the gray is a great way to hide the tell tale signs of aging. Choose a color that is close to your original color, so it naturally compliments your facial tones. If you like, consider high lights or low lights, since they do not require re-doing as often.

HAIR STYLE - Longer hair can actually make you look tired and worn down. Shorter hair eliminates the dry ends, creates a more bouncy look and can improve your overall youthfulness. Consider side swept bangs to expose and frame your beautiful face. Also, consider a layered style to create a more lively, shinier appearance.

MAKEUP - Avoid heavy makeup. Compliment your natural shades and don't load up on makeup. Use a light foundation, one that will not sink in to and highlight wrinkles. Try cream eye shadows. Remember to contour your face- it brightens and even makes you look thinner.

UPDATE YOUR GLASSES - As our eyes change and our prescription glasses need changing, so does the style of frames. Updating your current frames creates a more current, up-to-date look.

BRIGHTER SMILE - A smile changes your whole face and makes you look more radiant, distracting from areas that show your age. Along with that smile, maintain a positive attitude - blocking negative thoughts that cause stress and wrinkles. Also, consider whitening your teeth. Coffee and other foods can stain our teeth over time, creating a dull look to our smile. Make your smile look bright and young by whitening them with an at-home kit or even visit your dentist for treatments that deliver faster results.
You can always keep a spare toothbrush in your purse.

DRESS RIGHT - Outdated fashions outdate you! As your body changes, so should your wardrobe. Most importantly - avoid baggy clothes. Wear outfits that compliment your body and that help hide areas of concern. Have flabby arms? Try wearing three quarter length sleeves. Also, since our skin tone becomes lighter, duller with age - look for outfits with softer colors to better match your complexion.

UPDATE YOUR SHOES - Dull, worn and out of date shoes reflect the same on your appearance. Keep your shoes updated with the fashions and looking shiny and new.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN - and, of course, take a few minutes every day for a proper skin care regimen that will cleanse away impurities, exfoliate dead skin cells, hydrate and nourish the newly revealed skin cells, plus an eye gel or cream to target crow's feet. Proper skin care will help restore that healthy, radiant glow!

You will be amazed at how fast people notice a difference in your appearance and with all the compliments you will receive.

David Pollock is a global beauty expert who has formulated products for some of the most recognized names in the business. He is a published author, radio personality and was recently named one of the "20 to Know" by Global Cosmetics Industry. Today, David is empowering women to take control of their health and beauty. Subscribe to his free newsletter at www.JustAskDavid.com.