Ross' Product Pick of the Week!

This week's product pick is a cult favorite among the skin care gurus! This peel-off facial mask by Boscia literally looks and feels like tar BUT works wonders!! The formula includes potent Vitamin C to brighten and even out skin tone, some interesting but beneficial plant extracts, and the astringent witch hazel water. Witch hazel contains great antioxidants but it can have irritating properties...that being said, a product like this is only used weekly so the witch hazel is not a concern of mine.

What makes this mask special is the clay it contains. It is based with Calcium Montmorillonite Clay which contains 67 minerals and helps remove excess dirt and oil from your skin. Ignore the "detox" claims, thats just a gimmick!

Oh, Hey!

It really does come off in one sheet! Just pull slowly.

How to use it: I apply this mask to a clean, freshly shaved face. When spreading the product, a thick layer is not need but it IS important to apply the product evenly! This way the product peels off in one whole piece. Also, avoid hair such as your eyebrows and hairline, any hair that gets stuck in the mask will be pulled on during the peel-off process, that can be painful! Allow the product to dry on your skin for about 20-30 minutes then peel away! It may feel like pulling off a band-aid at times, but that helps remove all the dead skin cells to reveal a brighter complexion! Any piece of the mask that doesn't peel off can be easily removed with a damp washcloth. I do not recommend using this mask more than once a week!

Enjoy!

Here it is on Amazon.com:

Some other products in the Boscia Black line:

Vitamins for Great Skin: The Details

When it comes to skin care, this topic is right up my alley! Of course you can improve your skin with products applied topically, but there is a whole other side to the story: nutrition! With a healthy diet and vitamin supplementation you can make amazing impacts on your skin from the inside out! Watch this video first, then I will further discuss the benefits of each vitamin and other concepts behind my vitamin regimen:

Benefits of each vitamin supplement

• Vitamin A
• Sources: Fish and liver oils, milk, eggs, orange and yellow vegetables (sweet potato, carrots, etc.)
• Benefits: Involved in cellular communication and reproduction, reduces oil production, impacts pore shape and pore lining.
• Note: This is a fat-soluble vitamin. That means it can be stored in your body's fat cells and may build up to toxic levels. Although this is unlikely with OTC vitamins, it is still an important consideration.
• Vitamin C
• Sources: Citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwifruit, red & green peppers.
• Benefits: Antioxidant, protects cells from damage from free radicals, especially UV radiation. Aids in collagen production, an important protein for wound healing and skin health.
• Note: Water-soluble vitamin, proven to enhance immune function.
• Vitamin E
• Sources: Vegetable oils (sunflower, safflower oils, etc.), nuts (especially almonds!), green vegetables.
• Benefits: Super antioxidant! Has potent antioxidant properties that protect your skin from free-radical damage. Promotes all-over skin health!
• Note: Fat-soluble vitamin, take with meals.
• Fish Oil
• Sources: Fish (salmon, tuna, anchovies).
• Benefits: Fish oil is an amazing source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. These healthy fats allow cells to maintain a healthy shape and consistency. Fish oil also hydrates skin and reduces inflammation by promoting the production of anti-inflammatory hormones.
• Note: Fish oil is a great supplement for overall health, it promotes a healthy heart and healthy blood vessels! An all-around winner!
• B-Complex
• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Helps fatty acids and also instrumental in releasing carbs. Important for healthy hair and skin.
• Cobalamin (Vitamin B12): Assists nervous system function, formation of red blood cells.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Improves circulation. Helps body metabolise fats, carbs and proteins. Deficiency can cause acne.
• Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): Helps your immune system to function. Deficiency can cause acne.
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Maintains mucous membranes in the digestive tract, along with Vitamin A. Vital for healthy skin, hair and nails. Acne is one sign you are deficient in Riboflavin. 
• Source: http://www.safesupplements.co.uk/how-can-vitaminb-complex-help-skin.html

This is a great option for Hair, Skin, & Nails. Inside the box, the bottle is transparent dark green which is OK for protecting the integrity of the vitamins, especially since the bottle is packaged and shipped inside a box.

Synergy

• It is important to understand the concept of synergy! These vitamins will work better when taken together, than taken individually. Look at it this way: Vitamins A & E are fat-soluble, in order for your body to use them appropriately, a fat source MUST be taken at the same time. Fish oil is a great source of healthy fat and additional vitamin A. This means that taking fish oil with your other vitamins will allow them to have maximum efficacy! I typically take my vitamins with a meal but when you combine them properly, taking your supplements with food isn't always necessary. 

Product Recommendations

Back on track with Music Monday & a new video!

There's no better way to kick off the week than with a productive Monday! A sense of accomplishment is always good for the soul and keeps you motivated and focused on your goals. As today settles down, here is a jam to help you unwind. I really like the message this song is putting out there :)

John Mayer - "3x5"

Also! Check out my latest YouTube video: "Vitamins for Great Skin!" Tomorrow, I will post it here with additional discussion. 

Have a great night!

Ross

A Quick Update!

Hey guys!!

Just want to let you all know that I haven't forgotten about you! I'm finishing up my nursing program at Thomas Jefferson University and graduating on May 14. Things are really getting down to the wire and I MUST stay focused on school for the next two weeks if I want to finish!

I am very excited for this summer, I'll be free of schoolwork and spending much more time creating videos and connecting with all of you! I have some lofty goals for MensSkinCareWithRoss including posting ~40-50 videos, I have A LOT that I want to share!

Bare with me as I wrap up school and enter the realm of eternal school loan debt. LOL I guess its my own damn fault for getting a degree, realizing that it wasn't what I really wanted, then going back to school a second time. Oh well.

Have a great weekend, its supposed to be a beautiful day here in Philadelphia tomorrow.

Ross

Music Monday :)

I really like Karmin! If you haven't heard of them, Karmin is a cover band that made it big by posting their videos on YouTube! They are incredibly talented and have an amazing way of making songs their own. Just check out this cover of a Chris Brown song, I like Karmin's version WAYYY better!

Amazing right!?!

Here's another one that is more of a "production".

Aren't they great?

I hope I was able to introduce you to something new today :)

Have a great week!

Ross

DayGlow 2012

Whoa, whoa, whoa! What an AMAZING weekend! Friday started off a little rough, I had midterm exams bright and early but once those were over things really turned around!! Friday night (4/13/12) there was a traveling party called DayGlow in town and we had tickets. If you have never heard of DayGlow, it is the self proclaimed "world's largest paint party". I am a huge fan of anything over the top, I mean, I have been known to go to a Ke$ha concert once or twice, so this was right up my alley!

Watch this:

The evening started off great, my friends a I looked fresh and clean, but that went downhill QUICK! Here is the night in photos, truly an AWESOME experience and I WILL be going again next year!

That's me with the pink paint! Got him good!

Bahahahahaha!

I win!!

Trying to text on my phone thru a plastic bag, lol

So if you are ever looking for a great dance party, consider DayGlow!! It was such a blast, highly recommended!

Ross

My Product Pick of the Week!

I have searched the globe HIGH and low to find the PERFECT hair styling product! As someone who willingly accepts change, I am always eager to try new products with hopes of finding one that is better than the last. I am also very price conscious, so I strive to find comparable products at a cheaper price, all this for you guys! ...well, I guess I get plenty of personal satisfaction out of it too!

To no avail have I been able to find a hair styling product that I love as much as Fiber by American Crew! This matte finish styling cream/clay gives your hair a chunky, bed-head look with a strong hold that lasts all day without ANY flaking! The 3 oz tub lasts for about 2 months, is good till the last drop, and is reasonably priced. I typically pay ~$17 for a tub of it at my local hair salon. Sometimes I even get Buy 1 get 50% Off the 2nd, which is ideal! ...what can I say, I'm a college student!

There are other hair styling products that have a similar effect, and I stand behind my previous reviews of products from Hairbond and Jock Soap, but seriously I just keep coming back to American Crew. There is something about the texture of the product, ease of use, and scent that I really love. They really hit the nail on the head with this one!

Check it out on Amazon.com below:

1 pack and 2 pack (save $$)

ONE LAST THING: The secret to this product is to apply it into towel-dried hair! When you get out of the shower, dry your hair and body, get dressed, then immediately style your hair. The moisture allows for easier styling and a better hold. TRUST ME. If my hair is dry I will re-wet it and towel dry it again before I apply the product.

I have tried the other types of American Crew styling products and shampoos, etc. They are all really nice, just on the expensive side. Feel free to check out these other products that I recommend (if you have the budget!) The Defining Paste also has a matte finish, just a lighter hold.

C-ya tomorrow for Friiday, Friiiday, Friiiiidaaayy!

~Ross

Did You Know...

...that makeup was originally invented for men?

Yes, my friends, the pioneers of vanity and visual deception were actually of the male species! Back in the day, and I'm talking like 18th century, men powdered their faces, wore rouge (a.k.a. blush) on their cheeks, and even eye makeup. Talk about diva! Even in ancient Egypt the Kings used moisturizer to thwart dry skin and kohl for eye liner...that was like 3000 BC.

So next time someone gives you (or me!) slack for using a little bit of powder to reduce shine or concealer to cover up a pimple, just say:

...and remind them that makeup was invented for men!

Peace & Love.

Ross

Top 10 Products Under $10!

Sky rockets in flight, afternoon delight! 

Good afternoon everyone! This is a great post and one that I have been planning on putting together for quite a while! Here are 10 great products, all under $10! Many of them you will be able to find in your local drugstore/supermarket but for convenience I added the amazon.com link that will give you a little bit more information about each product. Lets get started:

10) Dream Essentials Cooling Eye Mask

Umm, HELLO?!? If you do not own one of these, WTH are you waiting for?!? This eye mask and similar ones by other brands are a true treat. Place this puppy in the fridge for an hour or two (I store mine there so its always ready), put it on your face, and relax! It really does reduce puffiness around eyes and is one of my best relaxation techniques. This one is perfect because it has cut-outs for your eyes, which don't tolerate cold very well. Remember, DO NOT put it in the freezer! The frozen gel will be too cold for your skin, plus it may explode! Refrigerate only.

 

9) BOD Really Ripped Abs

Personally, I am not a huge fan of the drugstore body sprays like AXE but sometimes you just need something cheap to throw in your gym bag to help you freshen up after a hard workout. If you are going to choose one, definitely give "Really Ripped Abs" a try! The scent is more than tolerable and you might actually get a few compliments...just don't over-do it! Plus, the bottle is HUGE so it will last for a looooong time.

 

8) Aquasentials Mesh Body Pouf

Call it what you want, loofah, luffa, body pouf, these things aren't just for the girls! I personally love my shower pouf and it is the BEST to use with a body wash. After using one of these things, you'll understand! I do not use it every shower but at least once a week to get smooth, exfoliated skin. Make sure you hang the pouf up after use so it can air-dry, also, they don't last forever so be sure to replace it once it feels "loose" (that's why the pack of 4 below is great).

 

7) Zia Natural HydraShield Shave Cream

This is an excellent shave cream that is totally free of irritating ingredients including fragrance! Ideal for normal to dry skin, it is affordable, moisturizing, and very well formulated. Although the thick texture will require very thorough rinsing of your razor between each stroke.

 

6) Yes To Cucumbers Gentle Milk Cleanser

This is a gentle, soothing cleanser that is perfect for normal to dry skin types! The formula does not contain irritating plant extracts and effectively removes dirt and makeup. Plus the price is on point!

 

5) CFA Active Cat Mouse Toy with Catnip

So if this isn't random, I don't know what is! However, considering how many people have cats as house pets, it is probably more relevant than not... Anyways, my cat is freaking obsessed with this toy! I bought it once and after about two months I had to throw it away because it had been through wayy too much kitty torture (i.e. dropped in the toilet and hind-leg kicked to death). Your cat WILL love you forever if you buy him/her this toy :)

Baby Roux, absolutely gorgeous!

 

4) Shick Hydro 3-Blade Razor

I rotate between a 5-blade and a 3-blade razor depending on what I am shaving, the amount of time I have to shave, and my mood in general. I really like Shick's 3-blade razors because I routinely get a great shave with very little irritation! Their new "Hydro" line is great and they also make a 5-blade version, and a "Hydro Power" version that vibrates (just a gimmick, if you ask me). I use the Gillette Fusion 5-blade razors but I'm sure this one is great too.

3) St. Ives Oatmeal & Shea Butter Body Wash

OMG, this body wash is the SH*T! I have tried SO MANY body washes including many from Olay which claim to be ultra moisturizing...that's a joke. Seriously, this body wash will leave your skin SUPER soft and moisturized especially when you use it with a body pouf (like above) or a washcloth. Plus it has a delicious unisex scent! This is a 2-pack for so cheap!

 

2) Olay Ultra Moisture Lotion with Shea Butter

So this is the body lotion I used in my video "Getting Ready To Go Out, Fast!" A great lotion for all seasons, this lotion smells great, contains plenty of skin-beneficial ingredients (like Vitamin E, Vitamin B3, and of course Shea butter). A total winner in my opinion! One last thing, it has a VERY small amount of shimmer in it that only you will notice, personally I find it gives your skin a nice radiance and I like it...okurrrr.

Here is the video :)

 

1) Maybelline ShineFree Loose Powder

This is a product that MOST guys could use! Its so cheap, why not?!? This is a loose powder that you lightly apply to your face to take down shine, that's it guys! This is NOT makeup! Its completely sheer (a.k.a. transparent) so nobody will know you have powder on your face but they will know you are not shiny!! If you purchase this powder, make sure you get a good brush to apply it with, the included pad/pouf is crapola!

Choose shade: Light (1st) or Medium (2nd)

All these products are definitely worth a try, I hope you enjoy them!

Ross

Music Monday & Update :)

Dear Friends,

Let's start this week off with a mid-day dance party, why not?! PRESS PLAY NOW (beware of profanity! lol) I have neglected my blog for ~18 days and I owe it to you. I promise you this week will bring a bounty of new posts and fun tips and tricks! ...however, I can't speak for next week, you guys know I live one week at a time. There is something to be said about living in the moment!

Here on the East coast of the US things have been getting a little hectic. This April isn't a great month for multitasking considering I am graduating in May, then prepping to take the nursing state board exam (NCLEX) sometime in June. As excited as I am to graduate, I am also under much stress to push through school, continue with work, and of course maintain my baby, MensSkinCareWithRoss.

Anything not to FAIL as bad as this girl....

I'm sorry, but that never gets old! 

That being said, lets all breathe IN through the nose, and OUT through the mouth (it really works!), put on our dancing shoes, and let loose for lunch...well, at least here on the East coast!

Enjoy!

Ross

"F**k U Betta" by Neon Hitch

"Beautiful Sinner" by Nicki Minaj

"Don't Stop The Music" (dance remix) by Rihanna

Remember to 'LIKE' MensSkinCareWithRoss on Facebook!

Product Pick of the Week!

My product pick this week happens to be among the first recommendations I ever made on MensSkinCareWithRoss!

Make Up For Ever's HD Microfinish Powder is an ultra-fine, translucent, finishing powder that will give your skin a shine-free, smooth, even appearance. The powder is talc-free and contains light-reflecting particles that will soften the look of imperfections and even out your complexion. Just dust a little on your T-Zone and you'll be looking great! Just remember to use it sparingly.

There isn't any other powder like this on the market, however other brands have attempted to imitate it without success. Be warned: To the naked eye this powder is invisible, however, with flash photography, the particles can reflect the camera's flash giving your face a white glow. Use the smallest amount possible with each use and you'll be fine!

The HD Microfinish Powder is available in 2 sizes (0.17 oz & 0.35 oz), and I HIGHLY recommend their HD Kabuki Brush (VERY high quality and designed specifically for this powder)!



Here is a video in which I discuss this product (an oldy, but goody!)

Enjoy!

Ross

Music Monday

This weeks musical inspiration is Jessie J!  I really don't like her as much as I like her MUSIC. This song has been all over the radio but I love it everytime it comes on!

Looks like its going to be a beautiful week here in Philadelphia, so I'm in a great mood! Pump up the jams and shake yo booty!

Ross

Look GREAT in Green!

Feeling a little flushed after all those Jameson shots? Good thing you are probably wearing green today!

The color green neutralizes red. Since the two colors are opposite from each other on the color wheel they are considered complimentary to each other. As with all complimentary colors, if they are mixed in the proper proportions a neutral color will be produced (grey, white, or black).  This concept is often used in cosmetics and the film & television industry! Wearing a green shirt is like a visual illusion and helps to reduce the appearance of red, especially on your face.

How interesting!

Have a great St. Patrick's Day, and as always, drink responsibly!

Ross

Inaccurate Product Claims!

First off, Happy Friday! I hope everyone has a productive yet restful weekend!

This post stems from a question that was posted to my Facebook wall (see photo below). One of my awesome viewers had asked my opinion on a product, specifically a toner by L'Oreal Paris "HydraFresh Alcohol-Free Toner".

This product represents a MAJOR problem in the skin care industry today. Companies have absolutely no shame in making claims about products THAT ARE NOT TRUE! It really grinds my gears! As a matter of fact, legitimate claims are far and few between.

You see, although skin care companies KNOW what is good and bad for your skin, they will often formulate and market products based on what sells! Luckily, most consumers know the major ingredients that ARE beneficial for skin such as vitamins A,C,E, green tea extract, retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, just to name a few. BUT you would be surprised at how many common ingredients like alcohol, certain plant extracts, and certain natural ingredients are routinely included in skin care products that are downright HARMFUL to skin! Knowing the difference between what is good and bad will really help you make informed decisions when it comes to proper skin care.

It's very upsetting to me.

This toner by L'Oreal Paris boldly states it is "Alcohol-Free". A quick look at the ingredients like will tell you otherwise. The THIRD ingredient is ALCOHOL! WTF!!!!!!!!

Lies!

I actually owned this toner at one point and used it as part of my skin care routine before I knew better! Now I know how to decode the ingredients listing so I can tell if the claims are legit or not, but that is something that comes with time. Learning the Latin and/or chemical names for ingredients is very tricky!

Below you will see some photos that prove my point. These examples BARELY scratch the surface when it comes to false claims and deception in the skin care industry. Don't make me go all James Bond on your ass!

The other product I show below in the photos is by CVS Pharmacy. A basic daily facial moisturizer with SPF 15 for sensitive skin. The statements on the front make this product pretty attractive! "Light, non-greasy" "Vitamin E & Aloe". Looking at the back label, it even says "100% Oil Free!". Read through the ingredients and you will find something totally different.

See it?

Herbaceum (cotton) seed oil! Oil free my ass! Oh, and by the way, Aloe Vera is the second to last ingredient, AFTER all the preservatives which are included in extremely small amounts. There is practically no Aloe in this product. They just included it so they could make a claim on the front of the box.

Simple as that.

I hope you look at skin care products differently from now on.

Now I need a drink.

Ross

Spring is in the Air: Fashion trends for Spring 2012

Going a different direction today, but hey! It's my blog, I'll do what I want!!

There are a few distinct fashion trends that are bound to be all the rage this Spring (and thru the Summer), so to get you ahead of the game here are a few of the key styles you may be interested in!

Tank Tops

Okay, WTF! I have never really been into wearing tank tops unless I'm lounging around the house but during my recent visit to Los Angeles, CA I had an irresistible urge to purchase tank tops. OKAY, maybe I just wanted to fit in, but unfortunately, I acted on this impulse and came home with an entire collection of designer tanks, at least they weren't super expensive!

Above all, tank tops are the cats pajamas this Spring, many of the trends I mention in this post are portrayed thru tanks!  Here are some examples:

Andrew Christian

Yes.

JackThreads.com

YES!

Don't know, don't care.

NO! Definitely no.

Horizontal Stripes

Moving right along, horizontal stripes are SO IN this Spring. I know, I know, horizontal stripes make you look wide, but apparently looking wide is looking good! You would be hard pressed to find a men's clothing retailer that isn't offering items with horizontal stripes. GAP, Urban Outfitters, H&M, they're all doing it! Here's some style inspiration:

Stripes by H&M, Blazer by ZARA

Good look but lose the cig, it's bad for your skin! 

J. Crew

How nautical!

Color Blocking

This trend is a 2-for-1 deal! Bold, bright colors are hot this Spring and the perfect way to express your new found boldness is to try color blocking! In some cases, color blocking seems very similar to horizontal stripes but when you see the photos below, you'll understand. This is all very exciting, do your best to contain yourself. For a better idea what's hot and what's not, scroll on!

Mixed retailers

Chic? no?  (the shoes are great!)

JackThreads.com

Here we go with the tanks again! Very cool tho!

Mixed retailers

These are all stylish and versatile! Spring weather can be unpredictable.

Ray-Bans

It's official, if you do not own a pair of Ray-Ban wayfarers, you are not cool. Well that sucks, because I don't own a pair...  Anyways, if you want to blend in but also look good, get yourself a pair of Ray-Bans. I mean, I guess they are pretty iconic.

Classic Black Wayfarer

There are two styles of the wayfarer, the original leans forward, away from your face, the other sits upright/against your face. Both are VERY similar, just a personal preference.

Blue Frame Wayfarer

Many fun frame and lens colors to choose from!

Epic, Epicness!

If David Beckham does it, it MUST be cool! Love his hair style in this shot!

I personally prefer the Aviators, and the selection of styles and frames is great!

American Indian & Aztec Patterns

I honestly don't quite get this trend but its definitely a trend! Just look in Urban Outfitters, you can't miss it! If you want passerby's to do a double take this Spring, try this weird unique new style! Have a look:

Unknown (probably Urban Outfitters)

Are those wayfarers you are wearing?

Urban Outfitters

U like?

Urban Outfitters

I guess its cool.

Well, that's all for now! Go on with your bad self and work that sidewalk!

Don't forget that beautiful skin is always the hottest fashion accessory! And awesome skin care videos are available (for FREE!) at MensSkinCareWithRoss on YouTube!

Have a great day!

Ross