Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Tighten My Face, Please!

Question:  Can I lift my face and neck without invasive surgery?  

Answer:  Depending on your expectations, yes.  There are both spa treatments and in-home devices and exercises that can produce noticeable changes.  Here are some in-home, cost-effective options:


Facial Exercises:  These work, but you must be consistent.  Just like exercising any other part of your body, results will only come with consistency.  You can find many facial exercise programs online.  My favorite is Carole Maggio's Facercise http://facercise.com/  I really notice a difference in the skin and muscle tone of my face, neck and chest area when I do these exercises on a daily basis.  






Also in this category is a little tool called Facial Flex: http://www.facialflex.com/ it's sort of resistance training for your face. You just place it in your mouth, between your lips and squeeze.  It's effective if you use it regularly.  I use it in the morning.  








Radio High Frequency:  Safely works by stimulating and messaging the skin as well as producing enriched oxygen for better tone and texture to help smooth, lift and refresh the skin and helps in the reduction of the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  It has also been shown to enhance blood circulation, increase collagen and elastin production. http://www.truehealthyproducts.com/2872/advantages-of-high-frequency-facial-true-healthy-products-wellness-spa-in-merritt-island-fl There are a few options regarding this type of device ranging in price from around $79 and up.  One of the "inexpensive" choices, is the DermaWand, which I use. 
 http://www.dermawand.com/media.html?id_in=1227IN067393 I have gotten, truly, good results with it.  I use it in the morning, after I put on moisturizer and before putting on make-up.  It only takes a minute or two, but again, you must be consistent with it to see positive results.  However, you will see a bit of a lift, even, after the first time you use it. 




Photofacial Light Technology:  Red light technology has been used by dermatologists for many years.  Certain wavelengths of red light  boost cellular energy, increasing production of collagen, elastin and microcirculation.  The Luxe uses a super-luminous LED array to deliver concentrated beams of red light for a fractional phototherapy effect. Coupled with sonic vibration and gentle warming in a unique massaging treatment head, these complimentary technologies deliver a professional photofacial experience for luxurious, soft, smooth, glowing skin. http://www.tanda.com/luxe.html?gclid=CL2Jzr2Rqq0CFWgaQgodIjoMlw  I can not attest to the effectiveness of the Luxe, as I do not own one of these.  I have heard good things, though.  One of these days, I will buy one and review it for you. 


It goes without saying, that these tools will not provide the dramatic results that surgery or injections will, but they are certainly good alternatives if you don't want to go the "nip tuck" route.  


As always, a combination of a good skin care regime, regular exercise and a healthy diet goes a LONG way toward a healthy glow.  


As a side note, I use the DermaWand and Facial Flex in the morning and "do" my Facercising at night before bed.  For best results, you will want to follow the instructions that come with the products.

Basic Makeup Tips


Here are some wonderful BASIC makeup tips that will get you out the door and looking great in no time all.  These tutorials are all from Lancome and Sandy Linter, a celebrity make-up artist.  I like these clips because they are good for women of all ages and skin types.

LIPS:
In addition to what Sandy does here, you could start with a lip primer such as Laura Geller's Lip Spackle.  I find a lip primer smooths out my lips, making liner easier to apply, it also prevents lipstick from bleeding into fine lines and also, keeps the color of my lipstick and lip liner true.
                          


BLUSH:  Be careful that the blush or bronzer you choose isn't too shimmery.  I find too much shimmer can accentuate fines lines and wrinkles
f

BROWS:  Don't forget your brows!


EYES:



FOUNDATION:  Use a very fine powder.  Lancome, Chanel, Laura Mercier, Hourglass and others, have fabulous powders for mature skin.

Another Fabulous Skincare Product

I am always trying new skincare products, and usually end up back to my old familiar favorites, but I have found a couple of new products that are sure to become "old favorites" that I want to share with you:


Algenist Concentrated Reconstructing Serum

A serum with the exclusive antiaging ingredient alguronic acid.

What it is formulated to do:
This antiaging serum contains a high concentration of the revolutionary microalgae-based ingredient alguronic acid. Within just four weeks of use, it minimizes wrinkles, leaving your skin looking radiant and noticeably younger looking.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Dyes
- Phthalates
- GMOs
- Triclosan

What else you need to know:
While pursuing renewable energy solutions, a biotechnology laboratory in San Francisco unexpectedly discovered the powerful regenerative properties of alguronic acid. Available only in Algenist products, this bioactive compound joins other powerful antiaging active ingredients, including a peptide and an algal-based alternative to retinol. These ingredients come together to create a powerful serum that rebuilds skin firmness while restoring its density and elasticity.

This product contains natural ingredients that vary in color so the serum could be white to an off white/light nude.

Research results:
In comparison testing, Alguronic Acid outperformed other well-known active antiaging ingredients, demonstrating superior antiaging benefits. Average results measured following an in vitro test with Alguronic Acid:
- 55% increase in cellular regeneration
- 32% increase in elastin synthesis
- 26% decrease in melanin production
Following a self-assessment of 100 women, within 10 days of daily use:
- Skin density (suppleness, elasticity) is restored in 86% of subjects.
- Skin radiance is boosted in 93% of subjects.
Within 4 weeks of daily use:
- Deep wrinkles are minimized in 78% of subjects.
- Skin is noticeably tightened and lifted in 81% of subjects.


and;


What it is:
An ultra-firming and restructuring cream that tightens and lifts while reinforcing skin structure.

What it is formulated to do:
This cream leverages the power of alguronic acid and ProPeptide3. Brought together in a never-before-seen antiaging complex, these ingredients boost production of skin's key structural proteins: elastin, collagen, and proteoglycans. As it strengthens skin's structure, this advanced formula redefines facial contours, leaving skin smooth, sculpted, and lifted.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Dyes
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates
- Triclosan

What else you need to know:
This cream also contains avocado oil, phytosterols, and olive fruit oil to moisturize and nourish the skin. It is dermatologist tested, ophthalmologist tested, for all skin types, hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and not tested on animals.

Research results:
Within 10 days of use (results obtained using product twice daily, following a self-assessment of 100 women):
- Skin is tightened and lifted in 83% of subjects
- Skin elasticity is restored in 80% of subjects
Within 4 weeks of use:
- Skin structure is reinforced in 90% of subjects
- Skin is firmed and toned in 91% of subjects


I got samples from Sephora and I am quite impressed with the results of these two products.  I found both products live up to their claims.  I am most certainly adding them to my skincare regime.

all for now!

JC



Types of Meopause


I took this info from a website and unfortunately, there was no author's name, so I cannot give credit where it is due.  So, since there is no credible author's name to attribute this to, I can not verify the accuracy of the information.  However, when I read this, it made sense.  


If you find yourself feeling as though you fit into one of these "types", it may be well worth the effort to pay a visit to your healthcare provider and have a little blood-work done.  

Types of menopause
Menopause should be an easy, smooth transition in a woman's life once it is recognize. For many, it brings a new capacity for work, pleasure, health and self-esteem. These women say they feel freer and more attractive once they no longer expand energy on a monthly period.
It was discovered by a healthcare physician that an ideal menopause is a reasonable goal for most women. It is important to determine your levels of testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone.
Each of these hormones plays a number of critical roles in your health during and after menopause. But it's not enough to consider each one separately hence you also need to look at the patterns of balance or imbalance of the three in relationship to each other. The relationships between the hormones are a crucial piece of the puzzle.
Once you find out what type of hormonal imbalance you have, you can take steps to restore the balance. (As each woman menopause occurrence varies, you can't generally determine your menopause type just by listening to other women experiences.)
Here are 12 types of menopause:
Type 1: Ideal MenopauseIf you are lucky enough to have an ideal menopause, you might find it hard to understand why your friends complain about their menopausal symptoms since your menopause is almost totally free of discomfort.
Over the course of a year or so, you simply stop menstruating.
You might never experience a hot flash, vaginal dryness, or fatigue.

In general, your experience of menopause is smooth and virtually free of symptoms. And after the changes of menopause are complete, you feel absolutely fine. While few women in this group experience very mild symptoms related to subtle changes or variations in hormonal levels.
Type 2: Low TestosteroneIn this type 2 menopause, your body is producing enough estrogen and progesterone to meet your needs, though your levels of both hormones might be at the low end of the "normal" range. But your body is not making enough testosterone. The result can be subtle, or quite intense. You might feel basically fine, but a little lacking in drive and confidence, or "vim and vigour,?
Mild depression and fatigue can be signs of law testosterone levels.
You may also feel some loss of libido, though probably not a complete lack of interest in sex.

It might not occur to you that these are signs of menopause and you might say, "I don't know what's wrong with me. I don't seem to have any problems with menopause or hardly any hot flashes, but I'm a bit tired and lethargic, and I keep procrastinating about things I used to love doing."
Type 2 menopause may include physical symptoms and risks. A testosterone deficiency can cause hot flashes, even when there are adequate levels of estrogen and progesterone.
Testosterone deficiency can increase your risk for disorders of the vulva, such as lichen sclerosus, a condition in which the labia and vulva become thin and fragile. Low testosterone can cause your muscle tone to weaken, and is associated with wrinkles and sagging skin. And you are at a somewhat higher risk for osteoporosis, or chest pain due to spasms of the coronary arteries.
Type 3: High TestosteroneType 3 menopause similar the first two types, may be relatively easy. With adequate levels of both estrogen and progesterone, things can go fairly smoothly. But too high a level of testosterone can be a problem.
While testosterone boosts your confidence, strength, and libido.
Too much of it can leave you feeling agitated and angry.

This frustration can even lead to a kind of depression but not to be confused with Type 2 depression. Facial hair, oily skin, and acne are some of the other ways excess testosterone makes itself known.
A more serious problem is that high testosterone can increase certain major health risks.
High testosterone levels have been linked to insulin resistance, a condition that interferes with your body's ability to regulate your blood sugar levels.
Insulin resistance can cause adult-onset diabetes, and can increase your risk for heart disease as well as cancer of the breast and uterine lining.
High testosterone levels are known to reduce blood levels of good cholesterol, which is another effect that can increase your risk for heart disease. High testosterone levels have been linked to insulin resistance to condition that interferes, with your body's ability to regulate our blood sugar levels.
Type 4: Low EstrogenYour body doesn't produce enough of these estrogens. It could be that, because of stress or other factors, your adrenal glands aren't able to increase their production of making estrogen as well as they should.
One common sign of this menopause type is hot flashes.
Actually, hot flashes can be produced by a number of hormonal imbalances, so they appear as a symptom in most of the a few menopause types. You may be mentally less sharp than usual, with decreased verbal skills.
Many women with low estrogen levels complain that they have trouble remembering names. These problems can be frustrating.
Low estrogen can also give rise to feelings of despair or depression. Physically, a shortage of estrogen can show up as thinner skin; more wrinkles; reduction in breast size; stress incontinence ("wetting your pants" when you sneeze or cough); or excessive, irregular vaginal bleeding. Without enough estrogen to balance your testosterone level, you can develop oily skin and acne. Estrogen is also needed to keep the libido healthy, so you may also suffer from some loss of sexual desire.
Finally, you may have a harder time doing precise work with your hands, such as the dexterity required for embroidery and other fine motor tasks.
You probably also know that excess estrogen has been linked to certain cancers of the breast and uterus.
But too low a level of estrogen can also cause serious health problems. As estrogen helps regulate your bone mass, a drop in your body's estrogen levels can increase your risk for osteoporosis.
Estrogen is also protective against cardiovascular disease. Premenopausal women rarely suffer heart attacks. Further, too low a level of estrogen may promote the development of insulin resistance, which can contribute to diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Type 5: Low Estrogen, Low TestosteroneAlthough this type of menopause has many of the physical discomforts of Type 4, its most painful effects may be emotional. Low estrogen and low testosterone each affect a woman's mood; together, their effects can be devastating.
Many women with Type 5 menopause feel dull, listless, or depressed.
A characteristic sign is a lack of interest in things or even people who are of great importance in your life. Loved ones may be hurt or puzzled, not realizing that these emotional changes are signs of a hormonal imbalance. "It's as if she doesn't love me anymore" is a typical complaint of a husband whose wife has this type of menopause.
If you have Type 5 menopause, you may have trouble with your memory, or with learning new things.
The deficiency in both estrogen and testosterone leaves your libido doubly diminished, and a thinning and drying of your vaginal walls can make intercourse painful. As with Type 4, stress incontinence can be a problem.
A deficiency in both estrogen and testosterone can affect your skin and muscle tone, leading to premature sagging and wrinkles. The breast tissue can also shrink and begin to sag due to a loss of collagen.
And you run the same health risks that come with Types 2 and 4: osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance.
Type 6: Low Estrogen, High TestosteroneWomen with Type 6 menopause can suffer from an awkward combination of agitation and fatigue. High testosterone levels can make you feel irritable, while low estrogen can make it hard for you to concentrate and remember names.
A woman with this menopause type may have a strong libido, but feel too irritable to enjoy sexual intimacy.
This type of menopause is also associated with sleep disturbance, a troublesome condition that can rob you of needed rest and leave you feeling even more tired and irritable by day.
Type 6 menopause, like Type 3, involves an imbalanced testosterone to estrogen ratio.
In Type 6, however, this imbalance is even more pronounced than in Type 3. In addition to oily skin and acne, it can cause a condition called "androgenic alopecia" (hair loss or even baldness).
If you have Type 6 menopause, you face the greatest risk for insulin resistance, especially if your estrogen level.
Type 7: Low ProgesteroneThe classic sign of Type 7 is anxiety. In the body, progesterone has a soothing effect on the nervous system. In fact, progesterone and its by-products can affect some of the same nervous system receptors that are affected by anti-anxiety drugs such as Valium and Xanax.
Sometimes, when your progesterone levels fall too low, it can be almost as if you are withdrawing from one of these medications, the primary symptom of which is unusual irritability. A gnawing feeling of anxiety is enough to make anyone lose perspective.
Progesterone deficiency has been associated with poor sleep.
This menopause type has the added burden of inadequate rest at night.
Women with this menopause type can also suffer from pain and inflammation.
This may show up as muscle aches or joint inflammation. Either way, these discomforts only worsen an already irritated nervous system. A progesterone deficiency isn't good for your long term health, either. When progesterone levels fall too low to balance out your estrogen, your risk for uterine and breast cancer increases.
Low levels of progesterone also increase your risk for osteoporosis, since progesterone plays a role in bone formation. By lowering good cholesterol levels, low progesterone elevates your risk for cardiovascular disease.
Type 8: Low Progesterone, Low TestosteroneThe symptoms of Type 8 menopause are similar to Type 7, but involve lower spirits and a greater tendency toward depression. The lack of libido, drive, and motivation that accompany low testosterone levels don't do anything to cheer up a woman who's already feeling anxious from a progesterone deficiency.
Unlike the low estrogen menopause types, this type doesn't involve memory problems or fuzzy thinking.
But clear thinking isn't much comfort when you're anxious or achy.
A typical Type 8 complaint is, "I feel like my personality has taken a real downturn. I don't enjoy sex as much as I used to, I don't have the energy to do most of the things I've always loved doing, and my muscles ache. But I have plenty of energy for worrying. My kids are getting annoyed with me, because I keep phoning to see if they're okay. Nothing much seems to be wrong physically, but I just don't feel like myself."
Women with this menopause type can also have trouble getting enough restful sleep.
This menopause type faces all the health risks associated with Type 7 and Type 2, plus episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hypoinsulinemia (or low blood insulin) if estrogen levels are too high. The low blood insulin and low blood sugar can increase feelings of fatigue and cause poor concentration.
Type 9 : Low Progesterone, High TestosteroneWhen you combine low-progesterone anxiety with high testosterone testiness, the result isn't fun.
If your menopause is Type 9, you may feel easily alarmed.
Your loved ones may see you as overreacting to everything. With nerves so frayed, women with this menopause type often sleep poorly.
Also, like Type 6, this menopause type can include episodes of sleep apnoea (interruption of breathing for brief periods during sleep), which can cause further sleep disturbances. Naturally, lack of sleep doesn't improve anyone's mood.
Type 9 menopause may involve the highest risk for endometrial (uterus) cancer(since both low progesterone and high testosterone contribute to this risk.)
You can also suffer from abnormal uterine bleeding, which can be irregular, prolonged, and quite profuse. This abnormal bleeding may begin in perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause), but can continue beyond the expected end of menses.
Type 9 also includes the health risks listed under Types 2 and 7. In addition, you face an increased risk for hyperinsulinemia.
Type 10: Low Estrogen, Low ProgesteroneThis menopause type involves a profound lack of two important hormones in a woman's body: estrogen and progesterone. Women with this menopause type may feel lacking in significant ways.
Physically, a Type 10 menopause can include a wide array of the symptoms described for Types 4 and 7, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, fatigue, or poor sleep.
Emotionally, you may struggle with depression, feelings of hopelessness and futility, and memory problems.
Of all the types, this one is most likely to include some trouble with stress incontinence ("wetting your pants" when you laugh or sneeze).
Oily skin and acne can also be a sign of a Type 10 imbalance, since the levels of estrogen and progesterone are not adequate to control the effects of testosterone.
The health risks associated with Type 10 menopause can be serious. Low levels of estrogen and progesterone have a doubly damaging affect on bones and blood cholesterol, greatly increasing your risk for osteoporosis and heart disease.
Type 11: Low Estrogen, Low Progesterone, Low TestosteroneMenopause is difficult enough when it involves deficiencies in both estrogen and progesterone, but when your testosterone level is low as well, you can feel deeply uncomfortable.
Physically, you may be feeling hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and lack of sexual desire, fatigue, or weakness.
Even if you feel any desire to attempt sexual intercourse, the thinning and drying of the vaginal walls can make it too painful.
Urinary incontinence can become quite a problem; you may find it hard to hold your urine even for a very short time.
Mentally and emotionally, you may struggle with anxiety, depression, dullness, memory problems, and a feeling of apathy.
You may feel easily tired, even while your other symptoms are making you work harder to get things done. You may have trouble sleeping. In general, you can suffer from a number of the symptoms described under Types 2, 4, and 7.
As with Type 10, this menopause type brings especially high health risks. Women with Type 11 menopause are also at risk for becoming insulin resistant and developing hyperinsulinemia. The risk for osteoporosis is especially high with this menopause type, since all three of these hormones play a role in protecting bones.
If you have this type of menopause, you have probably depended on support from your family and friends, this really is about as tough as it gets! But remember that there are a number of natural and medical treatments that can help.
Type 12: Low Estrogen, Low Progesterone, High TestosteroneLike Types 10 and 11, this menopause type can bring a profoundly disturbing sense of being out of balance. With a high testosterone level, you may tend to feel more agitated or frustrated.
The combination of high testosterone with deficiencies in both female sex hormones can also lead to "masculine" effects, such as facial hair, shrinking breasts, and deepening of the voice.
All of the symptoms discussed under Types 3, 4, and 7 can come into play here.
Women with this type of menopause almost always have insulin resistance, which if untreated, can increase the risk for endometrial cancer, breast cancer, non-insulin dependent diabetes, and heart disease.
Type 12 menopause also involves a high risk for heart disease, but the high testosterone levels can reduce the risk for osteoporosis that comes with a dual deficiency in estrogen and progesterone.

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Leave the Peel on the Oranges




I certainly can't take credit for writing this article.  I took it 

from Dr. Oz's website.  I am definitely going to try some of 

these suggestions. 

 

Secret Weapons to Fight Cellulite


Added to Articles on Tue 05/10/2011
If you have cellulite – those lumpy, bumpy, dimply areas of skin that often resemble cottage cheese or orange rinds – you’re not alone. Nearly 9 out of 10 women have some degree of cellulite on their thighs, buttocks, bellies and arms. Today, women spend upwards of  $12 million a year on anti-cellulite treatments ranging from fancy creams to risky surgery. With so many products and procedures out there, it’s downright dizzying to try and figure out what really works.

What exactly is cellulite? Cellulite occurs when pockets of fat push up against connective tissue underneath the skin. This bane of many women’s existence is seen much less frequently in men. That’s because female skin tissue is thinner and less porous; therefore, when fat cells push up, they’re more noticeable.

While there is no known cure to completely banish cellulite, there are ways to help minimize its appearance, so you can don your bathing suit and head to the beach with confidence.

Secret Weapons to Fight Cellulite

Cellulite and Diet

Avoid Too Much Salt and Sugar
By eating a healthy diet, you can help reduce cellulite. First, avoid too much sugar, which gets stored in fat cells and causes them to expand. Second, limit salt intake, since sodium causes fluid retention, making cellulite appear even worse. Consume no more than 6 teaspoons of sugar each day, and stay away from foods containing more than 200 mg of sodium.


Drink 8-10 Glasses of Water Daily

Water helps flush out toxins that hide in the fat layers beneath the skin and make cellulite lumps even more visible. Drink 8-10 glasses of water every day. Hydration also works to plump the skin and make it look less lumpy.



Kelp
Kelp contains fucoxanthin, a xanthophyll compound found in green plants with chlorophyll, which helps the body burn fat. Studies show that ingesting kelp can help facilitate a 5-10% loss in body weight, thus reducing the appearance of cellulite. Add kelp to your diet regimen. You can purchase dried kelp for about $7; try adding it to miso soup or crumble it into stir-frys and salads. Or, you can get your kelp in 300 mg capsule form (about $10 a bottle) at your vitamin store.

Cellulite and Topical Creams

Aminophylline Cream
This cutting-edge anti-cellulite cream contains the organic compound aminophylline, also used in many inhalable asthma drugs. When applied topically, this compound helps break down fat in cells so it can burn easier. Aminophylline cream, available online for about $40 a bottle, should be applied to the affected area on a daily basis. To supercharge this treatment, add vitamin C, which helps to build collagen. Make sure you get 75 mg of vitamin C each day. One kiwi or a cup of strawberries will do the trick.

Retinol Cream
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that reduces the presence of free radicals responsible for the breakdown of collagen. Retinol helps maintain skin smoothness and makes cellulite bulges less visible.  Look for 100,000 IUs of vitamin A per 2-ounce jar. For best results, use 100% retinol cream with added vitamin A, C and E.


Non-elastic Underwear

Elastic underwear pinches on the cellulite, exaggerating its appearance. Switch to non-elastic undergarments made of smooth fabric with an invisible edge. You’ll create even pressure on the skin, increase blood flow, and prevent fat from being pushed up and deposited in unwanted areas. Thongs and capri-length undergarments that reach just below the knee are also good choices.


The Truth Behind Top-Selling Cellulite Products

Most anti-cellulite products promise miracles in no time. But how many of these actually deliver? Here’s what you need to know:

Massage Devices
Massage devices actually DO work. Here’s why: Cellulite develops because fibrous connective bands between the skin and fat pull the fat to the surface, creating a rippled skin appearance. By creating friction, you can loosen or soften those bands temporarily. Massage helps by stimulating circulation and draining excess fluids. When the fat cells aren’t as “full,” the lumps appear smoothed. Try a massage product with battery-powered rollers.

Diuretic Herbal Supplements
Diuretic herbal supplements DO NOT work. While they may reduce fluid buildup and make fat cells appear smaller for a very brief period of time, you’re basically only getting more expensive urine as they flush through your system. What’s more, these supplements can negatively impact your digestive system and other parts of the body.

Caffeine Creams
Caffeine creams DO work. Caffeine works on the spot by breaking down fat cells, making skin smoother and less lumpy. The caffeine actually dehydrates the area where the cellulite is, tightening and firming the skin for a temporary smooth appearance. When purchasing these products, examine the ingredients, which are always listed in order of concentration. You want to choose a product with about a 5% caffeine concentration. Caffeine creams typically range in price from about $20-$100.

The bottom line: There’s no permanent cure for cellulite, but there are ways to reduce its appearance. Don’t throw your money away on expensive products or treatments. Try one of these affordable, effective secret weapons first.

Cellulite-Reducing Seaweed Mask


Added to Recipes on Thu 09/29/2011
The seaweed in this mask helps to reduce the appearance of fat cells. Additionally, the acid from the lime juice and the moisturizing properties of the honey are a good combination for your skin.

Ingredients
1/2 cup seaweed
1/2 cup green clay
1/4 cup lime juice
1 tbsp honey
3 tbsp hot water

Directions
First grind the seaweed and add it to the green clay. Mix in the lime juice, honey and hot water. Smear on your legs, wrap with plastic for 25 minutes and then rinse off in the shower. Use weekly for the best results.