tanning in the fall

FASHION TRENDS THAT YOU DIDN’T REALIZE MIGHT BE AGING YOU

Dressing to feel youthful is a powerful tonic to banish the blues and remain visible, but there are pitfalls to avoid. No one wants to look like mutton dressed as lamb, but sticking to an antiquated rule will also make us look older than we are. Below you’ll find what I consider to be unnecessarily aging:

FORGETTING TO BELT

No matter your age or body shape, showcasing your figure is always in style. By making smart choices and selecting pieces that highlight your waistline and accentuate your shape, you can enhance your natural beauty. Opting for well-fitted, flattering garments that celebrate your figure is rarely a mistake and can help you maintain a confident, stylish look.

BIG HAIRDOS ARE A DO NOT

You might ask, “But isn’t volume trendy?” Yes, it is, but with a caveat. Adding volume to your hair can indeed look beautiful and youthful, but there’s a fine line between trendy and overdone. Hairdressers worldwide note that many mature clients believe they need a heavy, elaborate hairstyle to stay fashionable. However, this approach often backfires.

LONG, FLOOR LENGTH SKIRTS

It’s true that overly long clothing or hair often doesn’t flatter as much as we hope. While some women opt for longer hemlines as they age, it’s important to choose carefully. Floor-length skirts, for example, can obscure your figure and may not highlight your natural curves. A shorter skirt often offers a more flattering silhouette and helps showcase your shape beautifully.

SUPER LONG HAIR

This one might not be surprising. Many women choose to cut their hair shorter as they age, and there’s a solid reason for it. Long hair can sometimes make a woman look older than she is. Hairstylists often suggest trimming your hair every few months to maintain its health and vitality.

WEARING THE SAME HAIRSTYLE FOR YEARS

While some women love changing their hairstyles frequently, others find a hairstyle they love and stick with it for years or even decades. If you’ve found a look that works well for you and makes you feel great, there’s no need to constantly change it—sometimes, sticking with what works is the best choice.

MATCHING LIPSTICK TO YOUR OUTFIT

This one is a bit debatable, but it’s important to consider carefully. While the makeup community often advises matching lipstick to your outfit, there are specific tricks to keep in mind—and some combinations to avoid. For instance, pairing a bright red sweater with matching bright red lipstick might seem like a good idea, but it often doesn’t work as well as it seems.

HEAD-TO-TOE PASTELS

It’s tempting to embrace the pastel trend from head to toe, and it has been popular for a while. However, wearing an entire outfit in monochromatic pastels might not always be the best choice, especially if you’re looking to avoid a more aged appearance. Monochrome pastel outfits can sometimes make lighter-skinned individuals appear washed out and may not be the most flattering.

JEGGINGS ARE A NO-NO

Jeggings are fantastic—they’re comfortable, versatile, and can be quite trendy. However, despite their comfort compared to jeans, it’s important to remember that they’re not quite the same. Jeans are typically crafted to enhance body shape in specific ways, whereas jeggings might not always offer the most flattering fit.

REALLY DARK LIPSTICK

There are times when an edgy, dark lipstick is perfect—whether it’s for the cold season or just a mood for something bold. However, darker shades can sometimes make you look unintentionally older. If you love the dramatic look, consider balancing it with lighter or brighter makeup elements to keep a youthful appearance.

LARGE AND GAUDY JEWELRY IS TOO MUCH

While a beautiful, delicate statement necklace can be flattering, there’s a fine line to walk in the fashion world. Oversized, chunky necklaces might not always be as trendy as we’d like to think, especially when they dominate an entire outfit. They can easily tip an outfit from stylish to tacky. So, before adding a big necklace, it’s worth reconsidering how it will fit with the rest of your look.

TOO MUCH FAKE TAN

We understand that a tan can give a carefree, youthful appearance, but it’s important to remember that tanning accelerates skin aging. Sun exposure can worsen wrinkles and fine lines. Many people turn to fake tans as an alternative, but even they come with their own set of issues. It’s worth considering healthier ways to achieve a radiant look without compromising skin health.

POWDERY MAKEUP THAT GETS ALL CAKED UP

Makeup can be fantastic—it’s fun, often affordable, and great for enhancing our features. However, as we age, some women may find it challenging to go without makeup, leading to the use of heavy or cakey products. It’s important to find a balance with makeup that enhances rather than masks, focusing on lighter formulas and techniques that complement your natural beauty.

OVERLY-DONE EYEBROWS

One key lesson from the past is that over-plucked eyebrows should remain a ’90s and early 2000s trend. Back then, thin, oddly shaped brows were popular, but today’s fashion embraces a more natural look. It’s best to aim for slightly fuller brows that blend naturally with your face and allow your eyebrow hair to grow out.

OVER-COVERING YOUR NECK

The neck can become a tricky area as we age, often making us self-conscious and leading us to cover it up frequently. However, covering it too much might sometimes draw more attention to it or make the issue more noticeable. Instead, consider styles that flatter and complement the neck area without drawing excessive attention

MATCHY-MATCHY JEWELRY

Fashion is incredibly versatile, which can sometimes make it hard to discern what’s still in style and what might be overdone. As Coco Chanel famously advised, before heading out, it’s wise to pause, look in the mirror, and remove one accessory or element. This helps ensure your look remains stylish and refined without being overwhelming.

THE JERSEY DRESS TREND

Another outdated trend is the jersey dress. While its comfort is understandable, it’s a style that can quickly age your look. The typical cotton fabric tends to cling to every body part, including those you might prefer to keep under wraps. Choosing alternatives that offer both comfort and a more flattering fit can help maintain a youthful appearance.

FLORAL PATTERNS ARE OUT

Floral patterns can certainly create a dreamy and romantic style, but it’s important to be mindful of how you wear them. For example, floral outfits found at many department stores can sometimes look outdated and may inadvertently age you. Opting for modern floral designs or incorporating floral patterns in a more contemporary way can keep your look fresh and stylish.

SMALL, STIFF HANDBAGS

Selecting the right bag can beautifully complement an outfit, but it’s crucial to understand the various types and know which ones to avoid. Some bags might not suit your style or body type and could detract from your overall look. Knowing which styles enhance your outfit and which might not be as flattering can make a big difference in achieving a polished, fashionable appearance.

HUGE AND BAGGY OUTFITS

Aging can indeed come with changes in how we dress, often leading to a preference for baggier outfits. While oversized clothing can be fashionable, choosing extremely large garments might sometimes make you appear older than you are. Opting for well-fitted, tailored pieces that offer comfort without excessive volume can help maintain a youthful and stylish appearance.

CONSTANTLY WEARING LONG SLEEVES

As we age, various parts of our body, including the underarm area, may become a bit floppier, which can understandably make us self-conscious. While this is a natural part of aging, it’s common for people to start covering these areas more. Instead of focusing solely on covering up, consider styles that offer comfort and confidence while also highlighting your best features.

WATER PANTS AND CAPRIS

High water pants have always been a bit of a fashion enigma. While they offer comfort and convenience, their style often leaves much to be desired. However, as the weather warms up and beach outings become more frequent, many people still opt for capris or high water pants. If you choose to wear them, pairing them with more stylish or well-fitted pieces can help balance the look and keep it fresh.

TAN, SHINY PANTYHOSE

Tights can be a hit or miss with an outfit. While they used to be seen as a way to give the skin a younger appearance, today, they might not always have the same effect. Choosing the right pair of tights, in terms of color, texture, and fit, can either complement or detract from your overall look, so it’s important to select them thoughtfully.

DARK, HEAVY EYELINER

Eyeliner trends have evolved significantly over the years. While dark eyeliner was once popular, it can sometimes appear heavy and age your look. Opting for lighter, more subtle eyeliner techniques can create a fresher, more youthful appearance.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, many fashion trends that are popular today might unintentionally age you more than you realize. From oversized garments and heavy makeup to outdated hairstyles and ill-fitting accessories, these choices can often have the opposite effect of what we intend. To maintain a youthful and stylish appearance, it’s crucial to stay informed about how different trends impact your look. Opt for modern, well-fitted pieces and subtle enhancements that complement your natural features, and don’t be afraid to adapt trends to suit your personal style.

Laser Hair Removal for Men: A Smooth, Permanent Solution

Hey guys, things are changing in how we see grooming! It’s not just about women having smooth skin anymore. Now, guys want to look polished too, and they’re looking for easy ways to do it. That’s where laser hair removal comes in – a cool solution for guys dealing with unwanted hair on their faces, backs, and chests. In this guide, we’ll talk about how laser hair removal works for men, and the science behind it. It’s not just about saving time on grooming; it’s also about feeling more confident. So, let’s check out how diving into the world of laser hair removal can totally change how guys take care of themselves, making them look and feel more put together!

How Does Laser Hair Removal for Men Work?

Consider laser hair removal as an effective solution for getting rid of unwanted hair. Wondering how it works? Well, it has a unique ability to target the color in your hair, known as melanin. During the laser treatment, the light acts as a signal that the melanin in your hair follicle picks up, similar to honing in on a target.

Now, the melanin in the hair follicle absorbs the laser light, causing the follicle (or the hair-making factory) to heat up. Visualize this process as generating warmth, damaging the follicle in the process.

With repeated laser treatments, this damage accumulates. The hair-making factory gets disrupted and can’t function properly anymore. It’s akin to overcoming a challenge – once the damage is done, the follicle can’t cause more trouble. In laser hair removal, the damaged follicle stops growing new hair. So, what’s the outcome? Reduced or even no more unwanted hair! It’s essentially an effective way to deal with those hairs you’d rather not have around.

Is laser hair removal effective with multiple sessions?

Yes. Laser hair removal isn’t a one-time thing. Typically, at least 3-6 sessions are needed over several months because the laser works on actively growing hairs. Hair follicles have a cycle of growth, rest, fall-out, reset, and regrowth. Since the laser only affects actively growing hairs, treatments are spaced a month apart. It takes a few sessions to wear down the follicles completely, leading to a cycle of month-long intervals until all follicles are treated.

Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

Whether or not laser hair removal hurts depends on your individual pain tolerance and the area being treated. Thanks to advanced laser technology, the procedure is considerably less uncomfortable compared to waxing. Many individuals describe it as painless, though some mention a sensation akin to a pinprick or a snap of a rubber band, accompanied by a gentle warmth.

How to prepare for laser hair removal

Before undergoing laser hair removal, men should follow specific steps to ensure a safe and successful treatment. Here’s a tailored checklist for men preparing for laser hair removal

Consultation

Schedule a consultation with a qualified laser hair removal specialist. Discuss your medical history, any medications you’re taking, and your specific goals for the treatment.

Avoid Sun Exposure

Steer clear of the sun and tanning beds for at least six weeks before the treatment. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications and impact the effectiveness of the laser.

Avoid Hair Removal Methods

Refrain from waxing, plucking, or electrolysis for at least six weeks prior to the treatment. These methods can interfere with the laser’s ability to target hair follicles.

Shave the Area

Shave the area you want to be treated a day or two before the session. This allows the laser to focus on the hair follicles beneath the skin without affecting surface hair.

Avoid Skin Products

Stop using skincare products that might irritate the skin, such as retinoids or glycolic acid, a few days before the treatment.

Avoid Perfumes and Deodorants

On the treatment day, avoid using perfumes, deodorants, or any products in the area to be treated, as they can cause irritation.

Hydrate and Moisturize

Keep your skin well-hydrated and moisturized in the days leading up to the treatment. Well-hydrated skin tends to respond better to laser treatments.

Remove Makeup

If the treatment involves the face, remove any makeup or skincare products before the session.

Comfortable Clothing

Opt for loose and comfortable clothing for the appointment, especially if the laser hair removal is for a larger body area.

Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions

Adhere to any specific pre-treatment instructions provided by your laser hair removal specialist to ensure optimal results and minimize potential risks.

How Long Does It Take To See Results?

For the hair removal to work well, we need to aim at a specific time when the hair is growing. Each hair is at a different stage of growth when you start the treatment. So, you’ll need several sessions to catch the hairs when they are growing the most.

Usually, for a lasting effect, we suggest 8 to 12 hair removal sessions. These sessions are spread out every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on which part of your body you’re treating. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect

Initial Results

2-4 weeks after your first session: You may notice some areas with less hair growth.

4-6 weeks: More noticeable hair reduction and thinner hair strands in treated areas.

Continued Progress

6-12 sessions: Significant hair reduction, with 70-90% of hair eliminated in treated areas.

Maintenance sessions: Every 4-6 months, depending on individual hair growth, to maintain results.

Aftercare Tips for Laser Hair Removal

After your laser hair removal session, safeguard your skin by staying out of the sun for at least 24 hours. Alleviate any swelling or discomfort by applying a cold compress to the treated area, and opt for gentle soaps while avoiding harsh scrubs. Maintain regular moisturizing for optimal skin care, and refrain from shaving or waxing the treated area to support a smooth and effective recovery process.

How much is laser hair removal for men?

The cost of laser hair removal for men can vary widely depending on factors such as the treatment area, the number of sessions needed, and the geographical location of the clinic or spa. On average, laser hair removal for men can range from $200 to $900 per session. Larger treatment areas, such as the back or chest, may cost more than smaller areas like the face or underarms. It’s essential to consult with a laser hair removal specialist for a personalized assessment and pricing based on your specific needs and goals. Additionally, some clinics offer package deals for multiple sessions, which may provide cost savings compared to individual sessions.

Can skin tones affect the results of laser hair removal?

Yes, the color of your skin can affect how well laser hair removal works. It works best when your hair color is really different from your skin color. For example, if you have light skin and dark hair, it usually works better. The laser can then focus on the dark hair without causing problems for the surrounding skin. But if you have darker skin, it might need special tools or skills to avoid issues like dark or light spots. It’s important to talk to an expert to figure out the best approach based on your skin and hair colors.

Can I do laser hair removal at home?

Yes, you can find laser hair removal devices for home use, but they’re not as strong as the ones at the dermatologist’s office. That means you might need to use them more often. It’s a good idea to check with your doctor before doing laser hair removal at home, just to make sure it’s okay. And, of course, it’s always best to use a safe product.

The Best Laser Hair Removal Devices for Men

Braun IPL Permanent Hair Removal System

This device is top-notch—quick, works well, and simple to use. It’s our top pick because of its speed and effectiveness. With IPL technology, it adjusts the flash strength based on your skin tone, suitable for most skin tones. FDA-approved, it has 10 power settings, letting you customize your treatment for your skin tone and comfort level.

Nood The Flasher 2.0

Want to feel good about your body? Try Nood’s The Flasher. It works on all the places with hair—like your private parts, back, legs, and face. Use it regularly for eight weeks to see changes. Once you see results, you’ll want to keep using it until the hair stops growing completely.

BoSidin IPL Laser Permanent Cooling-Care Hair Removal Device

Using at-home hair removal devices can be uncomfortable, but this specific device aims to minimize any discomfort by incorporating an ice-cooling panel. Additionally, its precision head can rotate 180 degrees in both directions, providing easier access to hard-to-reach areas.

FAQ

1. Is laser treatment safe for men?

Yes. Laser hair removal treatments are secure, having received approval from the FDA, ensuring they do not lead to any undesired side effects.

2. Can men do lasers in private parts?

Yes. Unlike some other methods, it doesn’t enter your bloodstream or lymph nodes. As a result, it’s safe for sensitive areas like the male genital area, underarms, ears, or nose.

3. Does laser hair removal take longer for men?

Yes, laser hair removal typically takes longer for men than women. This is due to several factors, including higher testosterone levels and thicker, denser hair. Men may require 8-12 sessions compared to 6-8 for women.

Conclusion

To put it simply, laser hair removal is a useful and effective way to get rid of unwanted hair. It not only makes your skin smoother but also saves you time in the long run because you won’t have to deal with hair as much. It’s usually safe, but it’s important to be realistic about what to expect, as results can be different depending on your skin type and hair color.