Tampa Bay Beauty, a PrettyCity Guide

Hello Beautiful!

Whether enduring an occasional flare up or an intense case of cystic acne, reportedly 85 percent of people between the ages of 12 and 24 suffer from acne. Still, many people don't completely recover from this "disorder" until they reach their thirties. Even if you don't consider your occasional that-time-of-the-month breakouts to be acne, chances are zits are something you can do without. Thanks to the latest Medical Spa service aimed at banishing the blemish and a bevy of beauty products that zap unwanted zits, smooth skin is attainable.

  • An end to the blemish Blus
  • DIY Skin Care
  • Cover Up

  • An end to the blemish Blus

    At Lakeview Dermatology problem skin is being solved with the help of Blu- U Light Therapy for Acne. The Blu-U technology is a non-laser blue light device that targets bacteria in the oil glands, working wonders on light to moderate recurrent acne in adolescence and adults.

    We'd compare the actual treatment to sitting under a face tanner without being exposed to UV light. While wearing goggles, skin is treated by an intense blue light. Because Blu-U is non-invasive, it's actually a safe option for teenagers whose skin and self-esteem is often hit the hardest by acne. Plus, save 20% off Blu-U with the printable Savings Invitation.


    DIY Skin Care

    If pimples are more of an occasional annoyance, we've got tips on how to cure and conceal these little complexion crashers. First up, whiteheads; based on everything every other expert on the earth says, we should be telling you not pop these pesky pimples but we can't think of anything less realistic. Without dishing about pimple popping techniques (yuck!) suffice it to say that if you must perform at-home extractions, cleanliness is king. When it comes to whiteheads, prevention is key, opt for a mild cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. We like Phisoderm's Anti-Blemish Gel Facial Wash, a salicylic acid acne treatment that sells for just under five dollars at local drugstores. Plus, for those who have back-acne or even butt-acne, Phisoderm makes an anti-blemish body wash to keep skin pimple-free from head to toe.

    Blackheads are a bit more difficult and are best left to be exiled by an experienced esthetician. Preventing blackheads is tough, but with regular maintenance, it is possible to keep skin mostly blackhead free. We rely on a home remedy from a favorite European esthetician, Indira Rakanovic from Spa Space. Between facials, use this homemade yeast mask weekly to fight oiliness and banish blemishes.

    Take one teaspoon of dry active yeast and add warm water to create a paste. Apply to freshly scrubbed skin and leave on for 45 minutes. Rinse twice, first with warm water, then with cold water. Yeast is rich in Vitamin B, which regulates oil production and speeds healing.


    Cover Up

    When all else fails, do what you can to conceal by opting for products that camouflage and correct blemishes. We like Benefit's Galactic Shield, a handy little concealer stick that hides blemishes while fighting bacteria. Part of Benefit's "Buh Bye" pimple fightin' collection, Galactic Shield sells for $15 online at benefit cosmetics. Or head to your local drugstore and pick up Clean & Clear's affordable blemish blaster, Advantage Invisible Acne Patch. This liquid spot treatment forms an unseen surface over pimples, allowing makeup to go on more smoothly while salicylic acid goes to work, aiming to cure the blemish below ($9.99).

    Remember the key to great skin is consistency, so whatever skin care choices you make, stick to them -- your loyalty will be rewarded with clearer, smoother skin.


    50% off at S Factor

    Time to sample the sweet and sexy S Factor experience. See why everyone is twisting, spinning and twirling with excitement for this new, totally feminine workout experience. Sheila Kelley's S Factor is offering 50% off an intro class with the printable Savings Invitation-- perfect for a group of girlfriends to try out or fly solo, literally.

    Sheila Kelley's S Factor Chicago is located at 1400 W Hubbard Street, 1st Floor, Chicago, IL 60622. Phone: (312) 492-7596

    Explore and Save at S Factor...



    Questions? Comments? Email us: spagirl@chicagobeauty.com