Happy Tuesday! We’re back with your questions and some useful tips, and don’t forget that you can submit your questions to any one of our Beauty Chatters!

Casey: What can I do about my adult acne? I’ve tried lots of treatments but nothing helps.

Have you tried Clinique’s 3-Step Skin Care System? I love this line and would strongly suggest you check it out. I used Proactive for a long time and never saw any results, but with Clinique I’ve been able to avoid major breakouts and control my oily T-zone. It’s best to speak with a dermatologist, but if you’re in a major department store and see a Clinique counter, head over and have them analyze your skin type.
~Jennifer

Sarah: I wanted to know which foundation between these is the best: L’Oreal True Match or L’Oreal Infallible Make-up or Maybelline Superstay Silky. I really want foundation that is really light and doesn’t look like I have applied it. Can you please tell me or even suggest any better foundation then the ones I have mentioned?

Hi Sarah!  When looking for that perfect foundation, the first step is to determine what skin type you are (dry, oily or combo) and proceed from there; A professional makeup artist or dermatologist would be able to help you out with this.   Unfortunately, I haven’t tried any of the products you were asking about. However, if light coverage is what you are looking for, I have tried Cover Girl’s CG Smoothers SPF 15 Tinted Moisture.  It took place of my daily moisturizer, and added a hint of color to even out my skin tone.  I would also look into trying mineral makeup.  I hope this helps you out and best of luck finding your perfect foundation!!
~Dre

Lauren: What is an economical yet effective way to whiten teeth?

Great question! I’ve got a bit of an obsession with teeth whitening and have tried just about everything available over the counter. I started my journey to whiter teeth with Crest’s White strips. They were convenient and didn’t interfere with my normal activities. After about eight months, I re-whitened and got an even brighter smile. Now I just keep it up with whitening toothpastes. Another trick I learned is to eat a quarter lemon after meals. The acid from the lemon juice breaks up stains but can be harmful to your teeth, which is why you should be careful with this one. Also, keep in mind that coffee, dark sodas, teas, red wine, and smoking stain teeth, so try to keep away from these after whitening or you’ll end up with the same problem.
~Jennifer

Photo Credit: Sweetheart Fashion and Crest Whitening Strips

Happy Wednesday! We hope you are all having a fabulous day and now bring you this week’s questions.

Hi Elana,

I wanted to add a little spice to my wardrobe. My clothes are mostly black, white, and gray; I think it is just easy and those colors go with everything. Lately, I have been wanting to get experimental with colors, but unfortunately I don’t want to buy an entire new wardrobe. How can I gradually add more colors to my usual black, white, and gray outfits?

~YuckNotYou

A: [I love your e-mail “yucknotyou.” What is your name?]

I think “gradually” is the key word here. Do you have a pair of earrings or a necklace with some nice color? What about a pink scarf? The good news is that your wardrobe consists of the most basic shades, which means that you can work in any color, and it will work. If you are not yet comfortable wearing pieces, such as a royal blue top or a red flannel top – no worries! For many people, it takes time becoming accustomed to wearing color. So in order for you to keep your head high and maintain a strong level of confidence, I suggest that it would be best for you to start with accessories, be it scarves, headbands, jewelry, belts, brooches, etc. Camisoles with either a bright or soft hue, which can be worn underneath a sheer shirt or in layering with a shorter shirt, offers a subtle pop of color as well. You can get nearly everything I have mentioned (including the camis) for under $10 at Forever 21.

With your love for grays and black, there are other basic shades that you may feel comfortable with. Navy, chocolate brown, beige, and olive green may give you a nice transition into other darker hues that still bring color to your wardrobe. Target is my favorite place to go in search of jackets, blouses, and slacks in such colors. Go to the sales racks, and you are likely to find quality pieces for under 20 bucks.

I would also suggest browsing through fashion magazines to see how the pros do it. Lucky Magazine is a great resource to subscribe to. It even includes “yes,” “no,” and “maybe” stickers that you can post next to the items!

But ultimately, “yucknotyou,” be proud of your signature style, because black, white, and gray are classic and never go out of style.

~Elana

Q: What is the best foundation for someone with sensitive skin?
When I use eye shadow, my eyes sting throughout the day. Is there a gentle eye shadow product that will work for me? What about a mineral makeup?

A: When dealing with sensitive skin, it is always best to consult with a dermatologist or professional makeup artist to find products that will work best for you. However, in regards to your question about mineral makeup and sensitive skin; many mineral makeup products are great for sensitive skin, because they are mainly made of natural ingredients.  Also, try products that are hypoallergenic. Bare Minerals is a great mineral makeup line and Almay has many hypoallergenic products.

~Dre

Have a question for one of our Beauty Chatters? Head over to our About page to contact us directly.

Photo Credit: Photobucket and Pure Mineral Makeup Kit

That’s right, everyone, Beauty Chat is happy to announce that we will be starting a new, weekly post featuring your questions!

Want to know how to get your eyebrows perfectly shaped? Or, where to go for the perfect top to wear on a special night? Send in your questions and we’ll help you get through your beauty dilemma.

We have a wide range of specialties within our “Beauty Chatters,” which means we’re sure to have an answer to your questions. So let’s get started!

Question: I’m really into punk rock, and I really want to look cool and edgy BUT still feel feminine and sexy. What do you suggest?

Answer: I completely understand the need to look the part but still feel like yourself as well! There are lots of little things that you can do to accomplish this. Fake eyelashes are a great way to add a little extra pizzazz to your look while giving you that little secret extra something to make you feel feminine. Giving yourself an edgy hairstyle but accenting it with something uber girly like a bow or a flower can make you look like Joan Jett but feel more like Hayley Williams.

~Audrey

Dear BC:
As my 2009 New Year’s Resolution, I have decided to pick up better habits, such as exercising on a regular basis. I haven’t been on a regular exercise program for years and I am sure where to start. I have a hard time staying motivated as it is, do you have any suggestions on how to get started?
-Exercise Challenged-

Dear Exercise Challenged:
Good for you! Starting an exercise program is a great start on picking up better habits; it will encourage you to pick up other healthy habits or drop unhealthy habits. There are so many different types of activities you can do for exercise. For an all over workout, if that is your goal, you may start jogging, walking, or even swimming, whichever you prefer. For the motivation part, find a buddy who is similar to you as far as health goals. Set a schedule to meet for working out. If you can’t find a buddy to work-out with and you have a dog, walking him/her every day is another activity you can pick up; it is not only good for you, but for your dog too. I hope those suggestions help and good luck!

~ Sara

Question:  When applying loose powder eye shadow, how do you prevent eye shadow dust from landing on your face and ruining your face makeup i.e.: foundation, blush, etc?

Answer:  Dust a heavy layer of loose translucent powder between your eyelid and top of your cheekbone before applying the eye shadow.  When application is complete, using a powder brush, sweep away the translucent powder.  This will not remove your face makeup and prevent unwanted color streaks from the eye shadow.

~Dre

Question: Starting this new year, I want to make sure that I only wear the most flattering pieces. How do I know which styles will work best for my body type?

Answer: Well, you are not alone! As someone with a “pear shape” (storing fat below my waistline, on my hips, thighs, and bottoms, as opposed to on my stomach and mid-section), I can tell you that I understand how challenging it can be to find the perfect pieces. First off, you must realistically assess your size and shape. Whether you are a pear shape or more of an “apple shape” (with a wide torso, including a full bust, waist and upper back, in which you store your body fat around the midsection of your body, such as your stomach, abdomen and chest), know what you are working with! A makeup artist wouldn’t just recommend any ‘ol color for you to wear on your lips or eyes, right? Course not. It would be based on several factors, like your lip shape, the tone of your skin, the shape of your eyes, etc.

So when it comes to your body, don’t just throw anything on just because you might like how, say, pop star Rihanna may wear it!

Take mental notes when you watch fashion television, such as: What Not to Wear, How Do I Look?, Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style, Peter Perfect, The Rachel Zoe Project, and Project Runway.

Be sure to also check out Jennifer’s “Dress Your Shape” article, in which she sheds light on other types of bodies, such as the “hourglass shape,” the “triangular shape,” and the “boyish shape.”

~ Elana

Check out our About page to personally contact one of our Beauty Chatters!

Photo Credit: Home Party Solution and Virtual Typing Services

As a woman, it’s natural to use anything with a decent reflection as a mirror. Nowadays, even men are becoming equally obsessed with shiny surfaces. Why the fascination? Personally, I only look in the mirror twice a day — once to apply my makeup in the morning and the second to take it off at night. I don’t fuss with my hair in the rear view mirror, check my face when I see a window…nothing. Yet I see almost everyone else take a peek every chance made available.

It wasn’t until I sat at this very desk that I really started to notice how much people actually look at themselves. You see, I sit next to a window that has mirror tinting on the outside and no one even knows I’m here. This creates a bit of entertainment for me. I see women and men come up to the window and check their hair, makeup, jewelry, clothes, teeth…everything. Even kids take a peek!

This could be the very reason that some people are so wrapped up in plastic surgery. By constantly looking in the mirror, picking at every fine line and wrinkle, these men and women often end up at a plastic surgeon’s office. Is this vanity or simply taking care of one’s appearance? Most of us are trying to do all we can to stay young and beautiful, even when we’re only in our mid-20s.

I asked a few of my co-workers if they use reflective surfaces as mirrors or simply walk past them. While many of them did confess to looking at any reflection made available, I was actually a bit surprised at some of the responses I got.

Jacquie: “Nope, I don’t look. I am in the restroom washing my hands then I look, but just a quick glance to make sure I am not a huge mess.”

Charles P.:  “I am in the middle; I will look as I am walking by.”

Elana: “I look from every angle at every opportunity.  Mall mirrors, microwave reflections, puddles of water…everything. But seriously, I don’t conscientiously look at the mirror more than about three times during the day, and it’s only because I may have something in my teeth. So if there is a time that I am near my reflection — I make it a point to look. I am always conscious of how my clothes fit. Different mirrors show different stuff!”

Matt: “It depends. Sometimes I look and sometimes I don’t, but I would say that I hardly ever stop and look. I would say I usually only look in a mirror once or twice throughout the day.”

Leeann: “Yup, I look. I’d say about 10-15 times, maybe even more!”

Randy: “I look just to make sure I look presentable. The only time I really concentrate on my reflection is when I’m getting dressed to go somewhere; and that would just be for a few minutes to make sure I look alright.”

Sara: “Don’t know why, but I always look. This is probably a good thing, because I always find something that is out of place, such as my hair being wild. I never thought about it, but I do it all the time.”

Dan: “Usually I stop, wink at myself… then flex and make kissy faces… you know…all the typical stuff.”

Do you often stop to look at your reflection, or keep walking?

Photo credits: Photobucket

According to Onamia Chun, the Senior VP of Fuglylab.com: “The name, Fugly Lab, is the antithesis of the typical beauty company; this is exactly why I love the name so much. Fugly Lab is not like any other beauty company and it never will be.”

(Fugly Lab’s very own Onamia Chun.)

Chun also commonly uses this tagline: “Fighting Ugly One Sample at a Time.” Get it? With its catchy (and totally clever) company name, Fugly Lab offers sample-size sets of makeup, skincare, hair care, and bath and body products, while providing the huge benefit of trying before buying. Based in Los Angeles, Fugly Lab held their launch party early May this year, and although I wasn’t able to make it, the pictures from their event are available to the public. I always love that! It’s like a “See what you missed, and hope you can make it to our next event” sentiment. For sure.

(A pic from Fugly Lab’s LA launch party)

Because I am so impressed and thankful for Fugly Lab, you just know that I had to interview Chun. Enjoy:

Elana: Is Fugly Lab a one-woman show? Tell me about the team behind this fabulous line of sample size products for women of color?

Onamia: On the surface it may appear to be a one-woman show, but I cannot say I do it all by myself. Fugly lab is compromised of a dedicated group of youngsters (my three kids), a phenomenal IT guru (my husband), and a product junkie (me). In addition, my extended family and friends are big supporters and helpers, especially when things get busy. I really would not be able to do this without their help.

EP: I am in love with my soy grapefruit collection (which my boyfriend helped use up!). I’ve never smelled anything like it, plus it’s the perfect size. What are your personal Fugly Lab favorites?

OC: The Fizzy Habit Bath Bombs are a family favorite. I absolutely love the white tea and ginger scent. I love taking long baths. The best part about these bombs is that when you get out, you body is total moisturized so you do not need any other lotion or oils. I leave the bath bombs in the bathroom and around the house. Our house smells so nice. Another favorite is the Margarita Bloom’s Fabulous Favors. All her scents are “kick yo’ mama” fabulous. I am not sure how she does it, but the scents from her body butters last all day long. However, a product I cannot live without is the Curls Soufflé cream. My hair would be a frizzy mess of tangled and dry curls without it.

One can clearly see that I am my best customer. This is the greatest part of having your own business. I absolutely love what I do. I use and enjoy the products I sell on a daily basis. Basically, Fugly Lab is a legal, tax-deductible way for me to sustain my product junkie tendencies.

EP: What is your number one goal with Fugly Lab?

OC: The number one goal of Fugly Lab is to provide women of color an opportunity to try new products and brands without the cost or commitment of the full-size version.

A close second, to the first goal, is for cosmetic companies to recognize the value in letting the consumer select the samples instead of blindly sending samples out to various demographics. I would like the cosmetic companies to view Fugly Lab as a go-to source to launch new products/brands.

EP: Before you launched your company, what was your day-to-day job?

OC: A long time ago in a faraway land, I was a geologist. I have taken way more science courses than the average human should ever take. I decided to make a career switch when I realized getting dirty and camping outside would be basic requirements for the job.

I am also a stay-at-home mother of three wonderful children. But I would not consider that a day to day job, more like a day-to-night-to-day job.

EP: For women who have possibly never heard of Fugly Lab, what is its single most important selling point?

OC: Every woman at some point has spent $50 on a cream because Oprah or another celebrity said it was fantastic. Unfortunately, many times the $50 cream does not work for her. Other times, a department store has given women samples of new products, but how many times has she thrown away a too pink lipstick or too light foundation? As consumers, women should be able to choose exactly the product they want to sample. Women should not be forced to fill-out a long survey, buy another product, or try to earn incentive points to try a sample-size version of a new product. Fugly Lab gives total control back to women to select the exact product they want to sample and nothing else. Fugly Lab brings simplicity back into the world of cosmetic samples. Fugly Lab. Select. Sample. Simple.

…So in addition, Chun is offering one fortunate Beauty Chat reader the chance to win a $25 gift certificate to use on Fuglylab.com. Comment on this post and tell us what you would purchase if you won. I will choose the random contest winner Monday, July 28.

Also, if you shop today through the 28th, you will get 20% off you entire purchase before tax and shipping. Coupon code: BCHAT. (A $5 minimum purchase, and excludes the Anna Sui Mini Rouge lip color.)

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Onamia Chun and Fuglylab.com

Shaving is a chore that has to be done (okay, it doesn’t have to, but should be), and if you decide to adopt other methods, such as waxing or threading, it can be a little uncomfortable and expensive. Personally, I stick to shaving. My skin is not super sensitive, but does react negatively from time to time. I am on a quest to find that perfect razor, but until then, I have found a fabulous alternative to those pesky ingrown hairs.

Queen Bee Waxing has a product that every girl should have in her bathroom, Buzz off Bumps™ For Pesky Ingrowns. Buzz off Bumps™ is a round, pre-medicated pad that is easy and fast to use. All you have to do is swipe the pad over the area 24 hours after shaving or waxing, and let dry. These little pads can be used everywhere! Your bikini area, underarms, and yes, men can use them too!

Queen Bee Waxing is the inspirational dream of Jodi Shays who is passionate about waxing, and I recently had the pleasure of speaking with her:

Denice: What was your inspiration for Queen Bee Waxing?
Jodi: I’m a neat freak by heart (it’s a Virgo thing). I cannot stand hair, but even worse than that, I couldn’t stand going to waxing establishments that didn’t do what I paid them to do. Therefore, I decided to learn how to do it myself, properly.

D: What is your favorite and/or top selling product, and why?
J: Buzz Off Bumps!, our salicylic acid pads. First we developed them as acne pads and realized that they were blasting ingrown hairs as well. Salicylic acid is a very reliable and powerful acid that can aid at ridding the follicle of debris, which causes the blockage in the first place. It cleans up the top layer of skin, allowing the new hair to grow out properly.

D: How does Queen Bee help women feel beautiful?
J: I’ve had a lot of people tell me that getting a Brazilian Bikini wax makes them feel empowered and sexy. Not only that, you absolutely do feel very clean and sassy.

D: How does Queen Bee make people feel at ease during a situation that can be uncomfortable?
J: You have to be able to talk to your client, the whole time. Silence is awkward, especially when you are taking away hair from “down there”. Also, we educate our clients before they wax, such as what to expect; we answer all questions.

D: You state that you are leaders in LA. Do you have any famous clients?
J: Yes we do. But we are asked not to divulge their names. We have to sign legal documents to that effect. Not every celeb wants you to know about their hair removal habits, and we definitely don’t want photographers outside of the shop. It’s too much of a personal experience. Celebs are treated like every other client who comes into the shop, and I know that they appreciate this.

D: Any tips you want to share?
J: It’s always a good idea to shower before an appointment!

You can catch Jodi tonight on E!’s Chelsea Lately show. To book an appointment or purchase products, contact the salon.

Thanks Jodi and Queen Bee waxing for sharing!

Every woman needs a complementary coat that displays her attitude and flatters her body. However, finding that special jacket isn’t always so simple…until now!

Mackage is an amazing line that values the beauty of outerwear. Never a disappointment, the creators Elise Dahan and Eran Elfassy (who began their design aspirations as grade school friends) consistently develop stylish, yet classic, pieces. Their coats embody sophistication.

For the Spring/Summer 2008 Collection, the theme is an enchanted fairy-tale forest. Advertising their looks with characters such as Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and others, what woman isn’t immediately intrigued?

To get the inside scoop, I wanted to hear from the Mackage leading lady herself.

Check out my interview with Elisa:

Leeann: I understand that you two are childhood friends who started sketching designs in grade school. When did you come up with the coat concept? And when did you start producing items under the Mackage brand?

Elisa: “Mackage actually started as a leather collection due to the fact that Eran’s older brothers were already in the leather business. When we were finishing design school, there was no such thing as a contemporary leather jacket on the market. The only leather jackets to be found were missy and more commercial, so Eran and I decided to design a collection of contemporary leather. We quickly realized that it was not just contemporary leather that was missing on the market but contemporary outerwear altogether. With this in mind we slowly added wool coats with leather detailing. We then evolved into a complete contemporary outerwear whose signature became that leather detailing. The Mackage collection first started in 1999.”

L: Because you began working with leather, and not specifically coats, do you plan on branching out to other items in the future?

E: “Our goal is to eventually become a lifestyle brand, but we love to be specialized in one category before starting a new one! Branching out into other items will definitely be happening sooner than later. With our roots as a leather company, the natural progression would be to probably go into shoes and handbags….”

L: How would you describe your items overall? And this season’s collection?

E: “Mackage definitely has a trademark style that will always remain from season to season. We are known for intricate construction, sexy and sleek silhouettes and our signature leather detailing. New this season is our A-line coat that still remains fitted, by subtly accentuating the waist. We have also introduced fabrics that have matte and shiny contrasts, glamorous Toscana coats and have perfected our popular new Puffys.”

L: Where do you find inspiration? What lends to your creative process?

E: “Anything and everything can inspire us…from the design of a trendy restaurant found while on vacation, to a favorite actor or musician. Truly, just sitting around playing with fabrics, buttons and a sketchpad is all we need to bounce ideas off of one another.”

L: What message do you want Mackage to send to the fashion world?

E: “That you can still be sexy even if you are all covered up and that a coat is your outfit not just an accessory.”

L: If you had to describe Mackage in three words, what would they be?

E: “That’s a challenge! How about: timeless, sexy, and glamorous.”

While skimming over the news on MSN.com recently, I came across an interesting article (which they got from the Science Channel) titled “Top 10 Useless Body Parts.” Immediately, I was intrigued. I can certainly think of a few anatomical pests that I would rather live without!

According to this article, many parts that were once vital to our survival are now just unnecessary, and even troublesome. Here is the list of “useless body parts”:

10. Plica semilunaris (a third eyelid)
9. Body hair
8. Sinuses
7. Adenoids
6. Tonsils
5. Coccyx
4. Arrector pili (a muscle that makes our hair stand on end and gives us goose bumps)
3. Wisdom teeth
2. Appendix
1. Male nipples

Our bodies can be our best friends or our worst enemies. We all have at least one feature that we aren’t too fond of. In fact, many of us have several! But luckily, with medical advancements we have the power to change what we dislike.

Plastic surgery is a hot topic around the world, growing steadily every day. According to WebMD, 11.8 million surgical cosmetic procedures were performed in 2007, the top five being (in order): liposuction, breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, tummy tuck surgery, and breast reduction.

And whether you are seeking a procedure to make you appear more youthful, such as facelift surgery or Botox ® injections, you have the option to do so.

Changing our body is something that can enhance our appearance and elevate our self-esteem. However, if you are interested in undergoing a procedure, make sure you have realistic expectations. Plastic surgery is a means of improvement, not perfection.

Have any of you undergone a cosmetic enhancement, or wanted to?

Most women absolutely love receiving gifts. At least, I do. So if I were recovering from breast augmentation at home vs. an aftercare facility, one of the last things I’d want to do is to actually go out and buy all of the necessities to ensure a speedy and proper healing period. Nope! I’d prepare beforehand and explore all of the cute gifts that JustGotEm.com offers. Milan Skrecek talks about the start of his successful venture:         

Q: Tell me again about the beginnings of JustGotEm.com. You mentioned that the idea sprang from a girlfriend of yours who underwent breast augmentation…

A: Back in 2001, I was dating a girl who had decided that she wanted to have breast augmentation surgery. She was extremely excited and nervous that she was getting the surgery done, and I wanted to show her that I was going to be there for her during her recovery.

I started to research recovery gifts, thinking that there would be hundreds to choose from but quickly found out that there weren’t any that were a “congratulatory” gift, one that showed that I cared. I was frustrated that I couldn’t find a decent gift box that helped women recover from augmentation surgery. Being an extremely creative individual, I compiled a selection of “smaller” gifts to make up a large congratulatory gift box.  It was more of a gift basket back then, full of most of the items you can get in the current versions of Justgotem’s gift boxes.  

A few days before her surgery, I presented the gift box to her and she loved it! It had a list of tips for both pre- and post-surgery and items that would help her through her three-week recovery process. She was so impressed that I created the gift box, telling all of her friends and stating that I should sell this “because it actually works.” So I did and started offering the breast augmentation recovery gift boxes online in 2002, and business has been amazing ever since. 

Q: When did you realize that your idea would be a success?

A: There were a couple of different moments I realized that the recovery gift boxes would be a success. The first one was having my girlfriend use my items to recover faster; actually watching the recovery gift box items in action. The second was about a month after launching the Web site. We didn’t have that much money to roll out a large scale marketing and advertising campaign but word got out that finally a well packaged, personal recovery gift box with quality, essential items was available. Sales went through the roof all by word of mouth only. The third was when I was receiving positive testimonials on how great the gift boxes were to use. It’s always nice to hear that you’ve helped someone through a tough time with a product you’ve created. 

Q: With so many different gift boxes, greeting cards, and clothing items to choose from, how does a person know what to select for his or her loved one?                          

A: You first have to determine how much recovery aid you or your loved one will require. Depending on your recovery needs, Justgotem.com has different levels of recovery gift boxes that include items that target different aspects of your recovery process. You also have to determine your budget. Justgotem.com has seven different gift boxes all valued priced depending on your budgeted recovery needs.

After choosing the recovery box you’ll need or want to give, you can add a clever greeting card (six to choose from), or select a cute top from the American Apparel clothing we offer in our clothing section. All of your items are beautifully wrapped and shipped to your door in attractive, but discreet, packaging.

If anyone is unsure about which recovery gift box is the right choice for them, you can always contact us and we can help you determine the right choice depending on your needs.

Q: Tell me about the creative minds behind your greeting cards. They are very creative and witty!

A: Our team gets together once a month to explore new gift box ideas, additional augmentation recovery information to add to the Web site, and any other beneficial items to add to make our Web site a resource for anyone needing recovery information. In one of our meetings, I brought up the idea of making funny greeting cards and they were very well received. We came up with three that first day, which flew off the shelves once we posted them on the Web site. We’re now up to six different cards and will have an additional three by the holiday season.

Q: I think it’s great that a portion of your sales are being donated to Breast Cancer Research. How did that relationship develop?

A: My mother is a breast cancer survivor so it was just a natural fit for our Web site. Anything I can do to help find a cure for this disease, I will. 

Q: What are your ultimate goals/plans for JustGotEm.com?

A: My ultimate plans for Justgotem.com are too take it to another level. Besides developing addition gift boxes and adding new recovery information, Justgotem.com will be recognized as a brand that is trusted and sought after for every breast augmentation procedure. Making the brand instantly recognizable is my ultimate goal.

Q: What do you love most about your job?

A: This might sound a little cliché, but I love the fact that I help women recover faster and with more comfort with a product that I created. Justgotem.com has helped thousands of women through their recovery process and we are blessed to still be in business after five years. 

~ Interview conducted by Elana  

Photo Credits: JustGotEm.com

My entire life I have seen my mom, Lori, suffer from debilitating headaches. Until recently, about one-and-a-half years ago, she has anguished from the pulsating pain caused by the dreaded migraine. Although her headaches have not completely gone away, they are definitely less severe and not as frequent since receiving Botox injections. According to my mom, “ I am able to do a lot more without the headaches. Before I would lie around with pain, but now I have more of an active life.”

Her form of relief? Botox injected from Upland, California-based neurologist Shashi Shah, M.D. To learn more about the procedure that has made a world of a difference in my mom’s life, I decided to talk with Dr. Shah directly to gain insight.

Q: How does Botox work to prevent migraines?

A: “Botox works by interfering with the pain pathway, and also by relaxing the muscles that are tight in the neck area. It has been clinically proven to be helpful in moderate to severe types of tension headaches associated with tight neck muscles, and also migraines.”

Q: How do you determine if a patient is an ideal recipient of Botox?

A: “Patients do have to come in to see me for an initial consultation to determine if he or she would be a candidate. Then I give them a neurological exam and review their medical history.”

Q: How long do the injections take? And, what does the procedure consist of?

  A: “The actual procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes. On the day of the procedure, the Botox is mixed with preservative-free normal saline as soon as the patient walks in. The mixture can sit for no more than three to four hours. It has to be used fresh.”

Q: Is there an average of injections administered?

A: “Per sitting, anywhere from 40 to 45.”

Q: How severe is the pain associated with these injections?

A: “It’s less painful than getting a regular shot. Most patients are already in pain so this is not as bad as that pain.”

Q: How often are the injections administered?

A: “Usually we recommend it every three months. After a series of injections, some patients might be able to decrease the frequency to four months.”

Q: What type of results do patients typically receive from Botox?

 A: “The patient does not notice any results right away. After about three days they usually start noticing the benefits, for example; improvement in the tightness of the neck muscles, improved range of motion, and reduction of the frequency and intensity of headaches. The benefits reach a peak in three weeks and they last for about three months. There is about 30 to 40 percent improvement after the first series, and after the second it is usually about 50 to 60 percent. After three of four series, we see 75 to 80 percent in most patients. The quality of life is better.”

According to Dr. Shah, Botox can even be used to help alleviate the pain associated with writer’s cramp and tennis elbow!

In the meantime, I strongly recommend that if you are plagued by uncompromising, unrelenting, and unbearable headaches, consider Botox injections. Because the injections don’t get absorbed into the circulation, there are no systematic Botox side effects. So why not try it? It has made a world of a difference for my mother, and may just be perfect for you as well.

(Consult a Botox specialist with any additional questions — learn if your’re an ideal candidate!)

Dr. Shah can be reached at (909) 946-2828.

Her address:  600 N Mountain Ave. # D 100
Upland, Ca 91786

~ Leeann

Photo Credits: Courtesy of my own camera work!