ALTERNATIVE TO FACELIFT: THE FACE WRAP

Los Angeles recently hosted the IDEA Health & Fitness Convention and Conference. 5000 people from the fitness world showed up - from gym owners, to product manufacturers to coaches and fitness trainers. They all gather yearly. It the biggest such convention of its kind in the world - 150 companies took part. People gather from all over the world, from about 60 different countries. IDEA overall is an association. There is over 70 000 people that read their journal. The event is their way of coming together to learn the trends to find out the latest and to be able to get their continuing education so that they can do their job better I sat down at the show with the CEO Peter Davis to talk trends.

 

The impact of the economy continues to affect the choices of fitness enthusiasts and health clubs. Gyms are altering programming and training to better serve the needs of the cost-conscious member.

Strength training is an essential part of a complete physical activity program.

Exergames continues to climb in popularity and are being taken to the next level: fitness clubs.  By integrating fitness-based video games into their programming, clubs will offer unique exercise sessions for game-lovers and those looking for variety within their workouts.  This includes Nintendo’s Wii Sports, Wii Fit and the PC-based Dancetown.  

Core training is big. Different from strength training, this type of training specifically emphasizes conditioning of the middle-body muscles, including the pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen - all of which provide needed support for the spine. 

Finally, a big trend going into this fall - group personal training. Perhaps the most surprising top -10 trend - group personal training involving small groups. It combines the benefits of a group workout with the personalization of a personal training session.  

ENERGY DRINKS:
TOP 4

The drink that continues to gain popularity: energy shots.

The energy shot business revenue is expected to reach $500 million by the end of the year but beware - sugar and carbohydrate contents in energy drinks average at an alarming 27 grams per can, leading to a "crash" after the effects wear off.

One drink, ROCKSTAR Punched Guava, has an astounding 102 grams of sugar. That's four times as much as a glass of chocolate milk.

The leader in the energy market today with zero sugar content and only four calories per serving is the 5-Hour Energy shot. When it comes to energy shots, 5-hour has everyone playing catch up. 5-Hour Energy outsells its competition combined by a rate of 2.5 to 1.

Other highly ranked energy shots:

Stacker2 6 Hour Power: it comes in a variety of flavors and is a distant second to 5-Hour Energy.

NOS: NOS enjoys the benefit of having the Coca-Cola machine behind its product.

ROCKSTAR: ROCKSTAR's energy shot with the backing of  Pepsi-Cola, has already generated significant sales.

FITNESS TREND:
'ELITE' GYMS


A big trend right now has regular gyms turning into luxury gyms which center around well-being and fun. These are called elite gyms or ultimate gyms.

One of the hottest elite gyms is Drive 495 in New York City.

People spend $5,000 for a yearly membership at this club designed by the man who did the Ritz Carlton Central Park South.

At Drive 495 one floor is dedicated to fitness and the other is a golfer's paradise, with three-dimensional simulators that take you through 31 golf courses from around the world.

For $25,000, the unlimited membership gives you 365 days of access to golf lessons or personal training sessions.

Then there are the elite gyms that stay on top of the latest fitness trends to keep members happy such as the San Francisco Bay Club and the Houstonian Club in Houston, Texas.

At the 90,000-square-foot San Francisco Bay Club, located near the city's financial district, there's been a shift away from exercise machines that focus on one plane of movement, like a simple leg lift. Instead the majority of the equipment is free-motion equipment - one piece will move you in 12 different directions.

The Houstonian Club, offers 110 classes per week and has a staff of 30 certified personal trainers who create programs to truly challenge members. Enrollment is from $12,000 to $24,000, before an average monthly fee of $200 kicks in.

It's all in the details...
High-end clients tend to expect the best because they know what's available, with many belonging to multiple facilities due to their hectic schedules and a need for convenience.

At the world's most luxurious gyms you can now find private televisions that display dozens of virtual courses and simulates an outdoor ride. The bike is equipped with handlebars that turn left and right, and you can even choose to compete against the person next to you. You could log on to a Web site afterward and you can gauge your progress or see if you made the leader board.

It's also common now to find exercise equipment fit for pro athletes as well as diagnostic medical tests and endless varieties of spa treatments specially designed to pamper your body.

Luxury gyms are thriving in cities by finding new ways to cater to their busy, health-oriented and often wealthy clientele.

Health clubs are growing their revenues and membership retention by offering more opportunities for people to pay for non-dues-related programs, such as personal training, pro shops, spa services and food and beverages. Clubs drew close to $1 out of every $3 in revenue from non-dues sources.

Now, gyms are more than just a big room filled with fitness equipment. They are upscale, luxurious, very all-inclusive with coffee bars and pools. There's definitely an entertainment value, and you certainly get what you pay for. You really feel taken care of.

Along with going high-scale, workouts are becoming high-tech. LA fitness trainers say women and men can get any fitness regime now on their iPods too.

ALTERNATIVE TO FACELIFT: THE FACE WRAP


There's an alternative to going under the knife when it comes to your face. It's called The Face Wrap and it's an all-natural non-surgical facelift that hydrates, tightens and plumps the skin, and pulls out the impurities from beneath.

The secret is in the mineral jar that combines 82 trace minerals. It sculpts the face as it draws out impurities from the pores. It's kind of like a mini facelift and deep cleanse that you can do at home. First, you mix the minerals with water, and then you dip the wraps in the liquid. The different Velcro wraps are placed on the forehead, chin and parts of the face. You wear the wraps for one hour. The results are cumulative, so the more you use it, the less often you will eventually have to use it. According to the company, it takes a decade off the aging process. If you see the pictures, some results are pretty incredible.

The initial kit costs $129 US. Refills of the minerals are $95 US. To view the step-by-step face wrap application video, or read more about it, check out the website at: thefacewrap.com.

CELEBRITY HAIR TREATMENT: INDIAN GOOSEBERRY


One of the most powerful antioxidants in the world is a little something you have likely never heard of. It's the hot product Hollywood loves. It's Indian Gooseberry and it contains 20 times as much Vitamin C as an orange – making it the most concentrated form of this vitamin of all plants. It comes in two forms: oil and fruit and it's now being used by Hollywood as a hair conditioner. Never heard of it? In India, it's been used for years. Some say, it helps stimulate hair growth, it nourishes and moisturizes the hair and scalp, and it supports and strengthens hair follicles. The hair apparently looks healthier, there is less thinning and premature graying is delayed.

Celebrity hair stylist Neil Weisberg, and co-founder of Neil George salon in Beverly Hills is famous for creating that laid back "California Casual Chic". He styles Heidi Klum, Nicole Kidman, Kate Hudson and Rebecca Romijin. He's selling a lot of Indian Gooseberry in his intense illuminating shampoo, his illuminating conditioner and his hair repair mask. When it comes to hair procedures, Brazilian Blowout remains hot, straightening the hair for months - but there's a new twist on it now here in Hollywood. Processing the Gooseberry is done with a traditional Ayurvedic process with a meticulous 21-step procedure at low heat, to maintain potency. neilgeorge.com

WELLNESS TREND: HYPERBARIC THERAPY


Now turning to something brought to light by Michael Jackson, and the trend of using Hyperbaric Therapy (HBT). It's a way of delivering more oxygen to the body at the cellular level. HBT provides the optimal environment for the body to carry out vital cell processes, increasing the capacity for the body to heal itself and since it heals at the cellular level, which is critical for changes to be made, it in turn affects healthy tissue formation. This healthy tissue formation makes it possible for healthier organs to utilize filtered pressurized ambient 'air' to dissolve oxygen directly into the plasma, cerebral and spinal fluids, flooding tissues and vital organs with oxygen.

HEALTH NEWS:
SIZE OF THE BRAIN


Psychologists have found that the size of different parts of the brain is linked to personality.

Brain scans of 116 volunteers showed that conscientious people tend to have a bigger lateral prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain involved in planning and controlling behavior. Very extroverted people have a significantly larger part of the brain - just above and behind the eyes.

Here is the best: Your personality is not fixed from birth.

Rather experiences change the brain as it grows, which can change your personality. Your pain, your joys and your life change your actual personality as time goes on.

PLASTIC SURGERY:
WHY WOMEN GET BREAST ENHANCEMENT


Who makes up the majority of breast enhancement patients?

Most common are young women, often from professional backgrounds, who are flat-chested or have uneven breasts. Doing it for confidence is the reason patients give most frequently.

These are the women who have never had any breasts who do it to boost their self-esteem. Mostly, they are women doing it before children, but there are many moms who go under the knife for rejuvenation.

There is a 10-year review of the safety of silicone breast implants, ordered by US authorities, which got under way in 2000 and is soon to be concluded.

After eight years, 16.8 percent of women in the study had encountered a problem with their implants known as capsule contraction - their implants had hardened as a result of pressure applied by surrounding, naturally growing collagen in the breast.

When they were casting for Pirates of the Caribbean sequel this time - interesting note – they posted for actress with real breasts only.

CAFFEINE: SHOWER GEL


You can now get a shower gel with caffeine. Shower Shock Body Wash is all about getting your caffeine rush before even making your morning coffee.

Each normal-sized application gives you about 200mg of caffeine rushing into your blood stream. You feel rejuvenated, energized, and you might tingle a little. It's called Shower Shock Body Wash.

There is the Shower Shock bar soap, and now the Shower Shock Body Wash comes in a peppermint scent.

Each bottle is 6.76oz (200ml)

E-CYCLING: ELECTRIC BIKES


Now turning to the new trend of E-Cycling, Electric Bikes.

Electric bikes are everyday bicycles with an added battery-powered electric motor. Although capable of pushing you along without your help, electric bikes perform noticeably better when you pedal. Do you remember that easy pedaling after you get your bike up to speed? That's the cruising feeling you get all the time with an electric bike.

It is gaining popularity in North America but it is all the craze in China.

These days, companies such as Canadian based Schwinn from Dorel Industries are giving them more focus.

At Interbike, the biggest bicycle industry convention in the United States, there were more than 20 companies displaying E-bikes this year.

'SMART LIPO':
SMALLER INTSRUMENTS


The latest treatment Hollywood calls No. 1 right now when it comes to getting rid of those love handles, or that little bit of fat that you just can't seem to get rid of: Smart Lipo

It's laser, melts the fat away, and actually sculpts the body. SmartLipo uses smaller instruments than regular lipo.

It zaps the fat cells. A tiny incision is made and the laser is inserted into the body via a small thin tube. The precise laser light beam liquefies the fat deposits through the top layers of the skin. The laser is actually rupturing the fat cells and then they are removed through the exact same incision.

The laser seals the blood vessels as it liquefies the fat - so there is less bleeding, bruising and swelling.

Pioneer and internationally renowned Dr. John Millard is a leading world expert in Smart Lipo. He works out of his cosmetic surgery facility in Denver and travels the globe -training surgeons in Smart Lipo and his even more precise Smart Lipo High Def that he created.

Smart Lipo High Def works best on the love handles, stomach, back, thighs, hips, knees, arms, neck, and chin.

If you're interested, check out Dr. John Millard's website at his facility called Advanced Body Sculpting Institute.

Denver: 303.792.5665.

If you are thinking of doing it and you want one of the best, it's worth the trip to Denver.

TREND: GLAMONOMICS


Glamonomics is a consumer demand for high quality, yet-affordable beauty indulgences.

No longer willing to pay top dollar for every single product, men and women are looking for more affordable cosmetic options that can be supplemented with special indulgences from time to time. Beauty brands are bringing their A-game to answer this call.

Even high-end skin care brands are getting into the game, creating specialty sets and product options that give consumers the indulgence they crave at a more affordable price.

Brands now realize we will no longer stick to our favorite product no matter what the cost.

BEAUTY FIND:
CLAIRSONIC SKIN BRUSH


The Clairsonic skin brush is a great waterproof hand-held device that exfoliates. It can be used for body and face.

Clairsonic developed the sonic technology proven to loosen dirt and oil to clear your pores. The Sonic Skin Cleansing System uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth your skin. 60 seconds a day, the micro-massage action cleans more than twice as effectively as manual cleansing. It also removes 6x more makeup than manual cleansing, leaves skin feeling and looking smoother, cleanses so well that products absorb better, can be used twice a day, helps reduce oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes and helps reduce the appearance of visible pores.

The Clairsonic is available at Sephora.

The regular one is around $195 US for the face only.
For $250 you can get one for face and body. I bought this one and love it.

BEAUTY: LIP TREATMENTS


Straight off the streets of Beverly Hills, the first turbo-charged complete anti-aging lip treatment that moisturizes, repairs, adds natural fullness and protects with SPF 20 – all in one! It's called LIP 20 and it contains over 10 active ingredients and it's created by one of Hollywood's favorite dermatologists, Dr. Stuart Kaplan. It's made with Sea-buck-thorn Berry Extract, which moisturizes 20 times more, than Vitamin E alone. An exclusive mixture of Soy, Grapeseed, and Black Cohosh Extracts, all provide anti-aging benefits.

The price: $30 US.

For more, visit kaplanmd.com

COOL FIND:
CHANEL TEMPORARY TATOOS


Temporary tattoos are no longer just fun for little kids. Chanel has decided to launch Les Trompe L'Oeil de Chanel Temporary Skin Art, a line of temporary tattoos based on designs created by Peter Philips for the Paris Runway Show for Spring 2010.

These intricate designs have proved themselves successful on the runway. From necklaces to bracelets and all the way down to anklets, these tattoos are an interesting way to not-so-permanently brand yourself with the much-appreciated Chanel logo. At $75 US for 55 designs, it's a more affordable way of showing brand loyalty… at least, while it lasts.

No wonder people can get so addicted to brands like Chanel. They do think of you. Or at least, they make sure that every accessory you might need for your sport activity can be purchased from them. We have to admit, they do it pretty well, as recently released Chanel tennis rackets are real eye catchers. They're not only pretty with the little flower decoration on them, but they're also professionally designed and extremely light weight so they are also comfortable to play with. The rackets will be available soon in Chanel stores worldwide.

EYELASH EXTENSIONS TO THE STARS:
LUX LASH BEVERLY HILLS
Now turning to a trend amongst MANY Hollywood celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Star Jones, Paris Hilton, Gwen Stefani, Lucy Liu, Naomi Campbell and Liz Hurley to name a few.

We've seen hair extensions work their magic, but NOW the most popular beauty secret today remains EYELASH EXTENSIONS.

In fact, experts say that LASH ADDICTS will be an epidemic soon! (and trust me, I've tried them and they are so beautiful that I can understand why!) LuxLash, is the first high-end "eye" only spa - lashes and brows. Located in Beverly Hills and housed in a retro 1940s-inspired white on white space, LuxLash offers eyebrow shaping ($40 US), Botox eyebrow lifts (from $550), EyeBrite for under eye circles ($100 US) and its signature swim-proof eyelash extensions (starting at $295 US), which come in a variety of lengths and colors and can last for as long as two months.

LuxLash is the best in natural-looking, semi-permanent extensions out there. When I have them done, I absolutely love them and each time one falls off I actually get sad! They make your eyes come alive and they are so unbelievably real looking, no one can EVER tell - but I tell everyone because I love showing them off. I just love telling people and seeing people's reactions (I also want to help Suzanne's business here in LA because she's one dedicated lady to her profession and eye care..truly provides the best and safest) The reactions are all of amazement that these are not mine. I had mine put on by the CEO Suzanne Cats; she is a master and an artist. What I also truly love about her is her passion. For the face, beauty, and her business. The attention to detail in everything she does is top of the line. The cleanliness of LuxLash in Beverly Hills is exemplary. I loved the setting with the old black and white photos of Hollywood stars from the past and the piped in Frank Sinatra sets the relaxation mood the moment you walk in the door.

Each faux lash is glued one by one to your own lashes, making a seamless extension that falls off with your natural lash.

9640A S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills.

310.273.5274.

9am PT to 7pm PT Monday to Saturday.

www.luxlash.com

HEALTH TREND: ANTIXODANTS


Now turning to health trends. A team of nutritional researchers from southern California has completed a five-year study that shows people who consume more antioxidants appear to age at a 47 percent slower rate than those who don't. Antioxidants slow the rate at which cells divide. The faster your cells divide due to diet, stress or pollution, the faster you will age. There's a product called Proleva. It's a capsule formulated by a team of scientists in Seattle, Washington, that you take once a day to give your body the extra antioxidants you need for vitality and youthful appearance. A single dose of Proleva contains the antioxidants found in eight of the most powerful super fruits, antioxidants that have been shown to increase eyesight, improve your immune system, support your cardiovascular health, boost short-term memory, increase brain function and return the youthful glow to your skin and hair. After 2 to 3 months, nearly all Proleva customers report more energy, healthier-looking skin, deeper sleep, less sick time and better short-term memory. The reason is believed to be that their body is finally getting the antioxidants they need to balance the effects of poor diet, stress and pollution. It is well known that people don't consume enough antioxidants. In fact a 2008 dietary survey shows that on average person gets less than 25 percent of their recommended antioxidants intake each day. To check it out, visit www.proleva.com and request a free 10-day sample, just pay $3.95 for shipping.

ANTI-AGING: STRIDERMATOX


Stridermatox is anti-aging cream and serum that calls itself a Botox replacement. Researchers have documented wrinkle depth decreases of up to 68%. Developed as an alternative to facial injections, the serum firms, tightens and diminishes the appearance of fine lines. The news is good, I used it and it works. I put it on and 10 minutes later my face felt tighter on the places where I put the liquid.

The company is so sure of its results that it offers a 100% money back guarantee within the first 45 days of purchase. They also have the face cream, which is said to do the same, but the cream has a cumulative effect. The serum retails for $54.95 USD, the cream is the same price, or both are sold together as a set for $98.00 USD.

The product is water-based and is non-oily smooth and silky cream uses a formula containing a combination of leading edge anti aging incredients, including Argireline, Matrixyl and Hyaluronic Acid. Skin becomes firmer and more radiant immediately. There is a Wrinkle and Frown Line cream and Instant Lifting Serum. It instantly smoothes lines while increasing collagen production and reducing the appearance of wrinkles over time.

For information go to: goodbyebotox.com. Ask for Leslie the owner, tell him I sent you.

FRAXEL: TOP LASER TREATMENT


You've heard it in the headlines and yes, in 2010, it's still very popular here in Hollywood. It was the #1 laser treatment last year, and it's almost equally as popular for men, as it is for women.

Fraxel is a non-invasive laser treatment that helps improve skin's sun damage, wrinkles or other signs of aging. The lasers shoot deep into the dermis to create tiny wounds. This then triggers your body's natural response system to heal those wounds. The process causes your body to reproduce, new fresh collagen and elastin, which results in tighter, fresher and more youthful-looking skin. The cost for any Fraxel treatment can vary anywhere between $750 - $5000 USD. To find a doctor near you, visit fraxel.com.

BOTOX ALTERNATIVE: SCULPTRA


If you're looking for an alternative to Botox, try Sculptra. It's still a popular choice. It's non-invasive and doctors call it the liquid facelift. It restores the skins volume with liquid injections. It contains two active acids that help stimulate collagen cells. It also thickens skin up to four times the normal amount. The treatments should be done three times every four to six weeks. Each session takes about 20-30 minutes. Results can last up to two years. To check it out, at sculptra.ca.

BOTOX vs. RESTALYNE


I know there are a lot of people who ask ‘what's the real difference between Restalyne and Botox?.' Well, Restalyne is a filler, while Botox paralyzes wrinkle muscles. It's best for the bottom half of the face, in nasel labial folds near the nose going down to the mouth. Restalyne is a great quick fix that averages about $550 USD per cc (1 cc is fine for the lips). Botox temporarily paralyzes muscles. Make sure to get a properly trained doctor, no one else. It reduces wrinkles in the forehead and crow's feet near the eyes. It usually costs $550.00 USD for two areas.

• Restylane is the trade name for a specific formulation of non-animal sourced hyaluronic acid most commonly used for lip augmentation. ...


• It's a dermal filler used to fill in lines and wrinkles due to the natural aging process and/or fat atrophy Restylane is natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores volume and fullness to the skin. It is perfectly suited to correct the fine lines and ...

DEEP DERMAL COLLAGEN REGENERATION


There's another non-invasive treatment that will make your skin look and feel younger, and provide intense collagen lift. It's called deep dermal collagen regeneration and remodeling. It works with the natural physiology of the skin giving natural looking results. It's a laser that targets old collagen, removes it, and then targets the fiber cells of the dermis, to produced newer, younger collagen. Wrinkles lighten, lift and disappear, and pores will shrink.

The treatment is designed specifically for each patient. For information, go to amacorp.com.

MUST HAVE: SOY


Now turning to a very important product when it comes to beauty and health: Soy. Soy contains phyto-estrogens that make us look and feel younger. The estrogen replicates female hormones and makes us look younger. It helps with pigmentation of the skin and maybe fine lines. Soy lipids are very high in Vitamin E, which helps repair damaged skin.

It helps keep skin soft and flexible, which in turn delays the aging process.

REVOLUTIONARY SPA/GYM: fbe


10 minutes on this thing is like a 30-minute workout.

It's a state of the art gym/spa in L.A. that has health equipment found nowhere else. This is a first in the United States. You've got to see this place. It is very cool. It's called fbe: Firm Body Evolution (fbe Spa) and it's a high concept facility for holistic health and fitness located in the heart of Los Angeles that combines top-of-the-line sophisticated exercise and health equipment with the absolute best in holistic healing arts bringing together a one-of-a-kind center built for total body and mind rejuvenation. The big hit is the Vibration machine and the relaxing detox in the infrared jade sauna. You may have heard celebrities and top athletes touting the benefits of using the Power Plate, but The EOS whole body vibration machine provides an amazing way to loose weight.

The benefits:

• Tones all muscle groups?
• Reduces appearance of cellulite
• Increases muscle strength and flexibility
• Increases bone density?
• Improves circulation?
• Reduces muscle pain and soreness?
• Increases serotonin levels?
• Helps reduce stress?
• Increases metabolism, helping to burn fat and raise energy levels?
• Helps increase growth hormone, testosterone and reduces cortisol levels?
• Improves nervous system functions?
• Reduces back and joint pain?

BEVERLY HILLS LIP TREATMENT: LIP 20


Now turning to a lip treatment straight off the streets of Beverly Hills. It's the first turbo-charged complete anti-aging lip treatment that moisturizes, repairs, adds natural fullness and protects with SPF 20, all in one! It's called LIP 20 and it contains over 10 Active Ingredients and it's created by one of Hollywood's favorite dermatologists, Dr. Stuart Kaplan. It's made with Seabuckthorn Berry Extract, which moisturizes 20 times more, than Vitamin E alone. An exclusive mixture of Soy, Grapeseed, and Black Cohosh Extracts, all provide anti-aging benefits.

The price? $30 US. For more, visit kaplanmd.com.

SKIN REPAIR SYSTEM: KUMAARA


There is a non-injection skin repair system that's a favorite to celebrities here in Hollywood. Released in early 2009, Kumaara skincare line is one of the best new skincare product lines of the year. Kumaara, (Sanskrit for “youth”) is based on a 500-year tradition of using Indian Gooseberry as an anti-aging ingredient. Today we know that Indian Gooseberry has a very high Vitamin C content. Their products also contain antioxidant fruit with organic Acai (we've all been hearing so much about Acai) and Goji Berries along with Floral Seed Extract working to create a powerful antioxidant blend with brightening effects, to improve skin's density and elasticity. It's based on a balanced blend of high quality natural ingredients, a combo of eastern and western approaches, which work to smooth skin, enhance moisture retention and protect against sun-caused aging. The products have Indian Gooseberry, which is one of the most potent antioxidants on Earth. They also have Linefactor which is based on Hibiscus extract, which boosts skin cell renewal and repair. Lastly, the products have Sepi-lift that is created from palm leaf extract, which reduces visible wrinkles?up to 70%. The line has three products:

• An Overnight Repair Complex to reduce lines and wrinkles, and has an ingredient that protects skin while sealing in moisture so that texture, tone and radiance are improved while you sleep.


• Daily Antioxidant Protection that has moisture that defends against UVA/UVB damage, and improves firmness and elasticity.


• Luminescent Primer, which is supposed to smooth and luminate the skin with Organic Bear-berry, and ingredient that promotes brightening.

Clinical tests on Kumaara showed that:

• 65% see wrinkles reduced


• 48% have a boost in skin-cell renewal


• 38% end up with less moisture loss

Prices for the products vary from $30.00 to $60.00 US. To check it out, visit kumaara.com.

THE LASER FACELIFT


There is a new laser facelift, called the Laser Lift. It's an injection-free treatment that reduces fine lines and wrinkles, treats sun damage, reduces pore size, helps dark circles, and tightens skin. You can goggle it by searching: Laser LiftTM. The lasers target the shallow, superficial layers of the skin. The neck and chest can also be treated. Results can last up to three years. A microdermabrasion is done before the treatment to let the lasers work to the fullest.

ANTI-AGING TECHNIQUE: EXERCISE MAKES CELLS YOUNGER


New research shows that 'exercise' can lead to biological change that produces healthier, younger cells. In fact, the cells of athletes are about nine years younger than those who do not exercise regularly; And the more active you are, the greater the benefit.

Meantime, the longer a woman takes birth control pills or hormone-replacement therapy, and the higher the dose, the more likely she is to look younger. That's partly because estrogen can increase water retention, helping to smooth out the skin. And although estrogen poses health risks as well as benefits, there is no question that estrogen improves skin elasticity.

Also, women who don't drink look better. The liver plays a major role in the quantity and quality of the collagen fibers within the skin's layers. Heavy drinking harms liver function and can cause wrinkles.

Finally, the longer a woman smokes, the older she will look, with deeper and more plentiful wrinkles and more uneven skin tone. According to the research analysis, every 10 years of smoking results in a perceived extra 2.5 years of age.

ANTI- AGING: THE WIDE AWAKE FACELIFT


A truly remarkable anti-aging procedure that men and women are lining up for here in Los Angeles and has taken Hollywood by storm is the facelift without anesthesia. It's called The Wide-Awake Factlift lift also known as "The Simoni Lift".

From Beverly Hills, Dr. Payman Simoni, a twice board certified Facial Plastic Surgeon by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgery and the American Board of Head and Neck Surgery is the genius behind this concept. Simoni has been doing this revolutionary lift while the patient is sitting upright and wide-awake.

How is it done? He freezes each area as he moves around the face and neck. It's really incredible. The Simoni Lift is a minor, one-hour to 90-minute procedure with long lasting natural results. He designed it to improve sagging jowls, cheeks, loose neck and facial skin without the need for major anesthesia. Recovery is quicker and so much more comfortable than with a traditional facelift. Using local anesthesia, the only thing you feel is an injection, because each section is frozen. The procedure is not done in an operating room, but a regular, nicely decorated office with relaxing music playing. All throughout the procedure, the doctor is speaking to you normally!

How does it feel? There is less bruising and there is no danger going under. It's truly unbelievable and his touch is so on the mark, the faces are perfect, no stretching, and no pulled back look. Everyone looks like themselves just younger and well rested. Simoni also performs liposuction, tummy tucks and eye lid surgery like this, without anesthetic. His work is artwork. I've seen the results on the mini-face lift and they're just great. People look exactly like themselves but completely rested and vibrant.

This is the kind of facelift you want. It's definitely worth flying to L.A. to come in and get it done. This is the way to do it: you would stay at a hotel with a loved one for a week following the procedure, then go for your follow up checkup one week later and you're done.

To reach Dr. Paymen Simoni at 'Simoni Plastic Surgery of Beverly Hills', call 310-360-1360. Tell him I told you to call. You can also email him at: help@dr.simoni.com.

ANTI-AGING SYSTEM: DERMITAGE


It's been voted one of the top anti-aging products on the basis of the ingredients. Dermitage is one of the only skincare lines with Rejuvaline, an ingredient that targets visible signs of aging. The formula contains two patented ingredients: Lifting Spheres and QuSomes. The Lifting spheres help firm the skin and give an instant lift. They also smooth out wrinkles from underneath. The kit has two products. First, the Instant Lifting Crème firms the skin and smoothes out wrinkles. Hyaluronic Acid restores moisture for soft and supple skin. The second product is the Skin Renewal Complex. It contains Glucosamine Complex that boosts collagen for less-visible fine lines. It also has Aloe Vera extract that soothes skin for a smoother appearance. Then, the Botanical Antioxidants protect skin from weather and sun exposure.

The ingredients have also been shown to help boost your own natural collagen production. The products last about 60 days. The lifting crème costs $49.95 US, the skin renewal complex also $49.95. To learn more, visit dermitage.com.

TREATMENT FOR HOLLYWOOD'S A-LISTERS: THEATA HEALING


Theta Healing is a technique making headlines in Hollywood. Dr. Kenneth Best is a leading Theta Healing practitioner. The technique uses theta brain waves and there's a frequency that connects and lets the cells talk to each other. It helps reprogram negative thoughts you send to yourself.. Ken Best is a celebrity holistic practioner of applied kinesiology and a chiropractor. He has worked on the casts of ‘24', ‘Brothers and Sisters' and Hollywood movies helping with all sorts of back issues. Now he's helping Hollywood with the energy psychology

Dr. Best says celebrities especially find Theta Healing helpful. He says, “Theta healing uses the theta brain wave which is most dominant when we're asleep dreaming or when we are under deep hypnosis; And it's the frequency that cells communicate to other cells in the body. So, this allows us to connect with a creative force and with the cells in the body. When we're here talking, we're in the beta, so we're in a much higher level of frequency. But, it's at the lower frequencies that cells actually talk to other cells in the body. So Alpha is when you're meditating, visualizing in your mind. When you go into a deeper state, like when you're hypnotized, that's theta. You're using a different part of the brain.”

For information on Theta Healing you can contact Dr. Best here in Los Angeles. He is an expert on all things theta, back issues, and muscle testing. He is definitely one of the best in his field, and here's what's amazing about him: he takes all phone calls and answers all personal emails right away.

You can contact him at drkenbest@drkenbest.com and if you're planning a trip to L.A., book a session. You will feel so much better. He also does Skype sessions from wherever you are. Tell him I told you to call, he will reply right away!

BEAUTY, STYLE, MAKEUP: NEW BOOKS


Here's the latest on hot new books for beauty, style and makeup:

1.Simple Skin Beauty by Dr. Ellen Marmur

Dermatologist Ellen Marmur's new book is Simple Skin Beauty. Some of the points she suggests as the very basics we need:

- Wear Sunscreen: It keeps your collagen young, and packs your skin tight, so the pores stay tiny.

- Exfoliate: Choose a gritty texture or chemical formulas with glycolic acid—they both work to release dead skin and give a radiant glow.

- Moisturize: This one may seem like a no-brainer, but lotions or creams after the shower and before bed are key components for preserving pretty skin.

2. You Know You Want It: Style – Inspiration – Confidence By: Eric Daman

Gossip Girl's head costume designer, Eric Daman, has written a book called You Know You Want It: Style—Inspiration—Confidence. The book encourages women to develop their own aesthetic rather than copying someone else's style. Daman got his start in TV when he ran into Sex and The City's Pat Field, who needed an assistant. "Working with Sarah Jessica was amazing!" he says. From Carrie and Samantha to Blair and Serena, Daman knows what women want and how to help them get it. Daman's style guide available at amazon.com.

3. NARS 15X15

To celebrate the 15th Anniversary of NARS (yes, it already been 15 years!) François Nars, the founder and creative genius behind the brand, is releasing a limited edition book of fifteen celebrity portraits—NARS 15X15 . He took each photo too! Each star shot is inspired by an iconic NARS product: Marc Jacobs chose Dovima Nail Polish; Amber Valetta chose Belle de Jour lipstick; Jennifer Jason Leigh chose Black Moon Eyeliner Pencil; Shalom Harlom chose Jolie Poupée Duo Eyeshadow. The book sells for $80.00 and will be sold at www.15X15project.com.

PERFUME: THE CELEBRITY BUSINESS FOR 2010


Now turning to fragrances and celebrities venturing out:

- In Bloom Perfume by Reese Witherspoon, created for hers, is a green/floral scent. The perfume features peach, tealeaves and greenery in top notes. It includes magnolia, gardenia and jasmine, while base notes add cashmere, flowers and amber crystals. She is Avon's global ambassador working toward combating violence against women.

- Bon Jovi and Kenneth Cole partnered up to create RSVP fragrance.

- Following in the tradition of Jennifer Lopez's hugely successful fragrance empire (think Glow by J.Lo, Deseo, and Live), she also now has launching My Glow, a musky lavender scent inspired by her relationship with her children and we got this exclusive behind-the-scenes photo from the ad campaign! Love the ultra-feminine bottle? The shape is inspired by soaps from Lopez's own nursery, and the cherub cap is dual-sided to represent each of her twins: one side a baby boy, like her son Max, and the other a girl, like her daughter Emme. Be sure to check out the box the fragrance comes in—the entire design mimics J. Lo's baby shower invitations! My Glow (50 mL, $49.50) is available at department stores nationwide.

- Three exciting fragrances also come from Demi Moore's All You've Ever Wanted, a magnolia and cedar scent, launched November 1st, 2009, Sarah Jessica Parker's SJP NYC, a fruity, flowery blend that comes out in February, and Fergie's in partnership with Avon, which is slated for next year. The Ghost star Demi Moore is the current face of All You've Ever Wanted, the fragrance by the cosmetics label Helena Rubinstein - and she reveals the partnership has brought about "very deep and serious conversation" about creating her own line. She's hoping she can soon settle a contract with beauty bosses. She tells Women's Wear Daily, "I feel like I have a greater creative opportunity in working with something where we could really form a true partnership and be really mutually beneficial.”

- The Kardashian Sisters have partnered up with For Every Body, an eco friendly brand of soy candles, and launched their own collection of scented candles called DASH. The line will also include gel sprays.

- Madonna will be launching four new scents this year. The first two will be called Musical, and Sensual.

- In April, look for Eva, a scent by Eva Longoria. This will not be part of the Desperate Housewives franchise like the scent ‘Forbidden Fruit'.

CHANEL AND OPI: NAILS COLORS FOR SPRING


Last fall I got a sneak peak at the two hot colors for nails this spring. You may not be thrilled, because they are not bright and cheery. Over at Chanel, the color is nothing new. It's a matte, dark taupe, mushroom-y shade. I don't find it pretty, but it's Chanel and many will like it and the quality is great. The one I like is from OPI. I love everything from OPI. The quality is outstanding. My favorite color is Bubble Bath but the new trend for this spring is grey, dark silver and metallic, giving black the boot.

Latest Fitness Trend: TRX Suspension Training


Now turning to the latest in fitness trends. TRX is a new suspension-training program that is portable and uses your own body weight. It's a set of bars, hand straps and foot straps that is completely portable and only weighs 2 pounds! A U.S. Navy SEAL member originally invented it for Navy SEALs due to their constant need to workout, but are always on-the-go. The idea took off, and is now popping up in stores all across North America. One of the best things about the TRX system is that it can accommodate all levels of training according to each user. The system comes with the equipment, along with a navy seal workout regimen. It also allows you to perform over 300 exercises.

Now, there is also a TRX Suspension Training Pro Pack. This new system comes equipped with a redesign TRX Suspension Trainer and three times more exercise content. It also comes with a new 65 minutes basic training DVD.

The cost for the regular TRX system is $149.95 USD. The pro pack system sells for $189.99 USD.

Hollywood Walk of Fame: L'Oreal Paris Donates Money to Restore


L'Oreal Paris is setting a trend. It's been named a Friend of The Walk of Fame by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for it's upcoming 50th anniversary, which coincides with L'Oreal's 100th year. L'Oreal is helping to fund the Walk's renovation and restoration, preserving the world-famous Hollywood landmark for millions of annual visitors and ensuring its survival for years to come. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce says "L'Oreal is setting an example that it hopes other corporations will follow. In honor of their preservation efforts and 100th anniversary, L'Oreal makeup artists offered free lip touch-ups in the heart of Hollywood in October 2009.

Celebrity Anti-aging Secret: La Peau


JA skincare product making headlines, with actresses like Eva Longoria, is an antioxidant "face cream" from Switzerland that delays the aging process. It's the science-based product called LA PEAU. I've got to say, from the moment I put this on my face, my skin felt so much better. It was actually weird how fast I felt the results. It's texture melted on my skin. Not greasy, very smooth, and very light. It actually feels cool and refreshing the "moment" you put it on. Vitamins and antioxidants penetrate into skin hydrating & regenerating it. It protects the skin against oxidation, which is an aging factor. The company says it reduces fine lines and wrinkles after 28 days of use. I haven't used it that long but I can say, my skin looks and feels so silky and I've been under a lot of stress lately! Dermatologists and plastic surgeons use it after surgery or just for anti-aging. The creams have a base of a new proprietary complex called the BeCell. This revolutionary complex stimulates cellular metabolism, therefore rejuvenating the skin.

There is a Night Cream-Gel, a Day Cream-Gel and an Eye Contour.

The products cost anywhere between $60.00 and $215.00 US.

The head office is Geneva Switzerland but they also have an office in Canada, in Montreal.

For more on this cream, visit LaPeauSkincare.com or call the Montreal office at: (514)-989-3161 and ask for Carla, the boss!

IN THE BEAUTY BUSINESS: IGLESIAS AND THE KARDASHIANS


Joining the ranks of famous fragrance faces like Justin Timberlake for Givenchy Play and Hayden Christensen for Lacoste Challenge is singer Enrique Iglesias. Iglesias is now the face of Azzaro Pour Homme. The fragrance has been a classic for decades. They have cast him as a seducer in the campaign. He says he truly loves the smell. The campaign was shot by photographer Steven Klein. Klein has been behind the lens of many celebrity shoots with stars such as Madonna and Brad Pitt. The cologne has been described as “the eternal charmer, a man who loves and respects women” which can easily describe the tall, handsome, Spanish singer.

Azzaro Pour Homme is available at select Macy's.

Meantime, family matriarch Kris Jenner and her Kardashian girls Khloe, Kim and Kourtney are launching their own skin care line. They hope to have it in stores this Spring. The launch will coincide with Kim's new fragrance, which will be available exclusively at Sephora stores in February. Beauty isn't the only market these business savvy girls will target. They recently signed a five-year contract to design for Bebe clothing.

TOP 7 FITNESS TRENDS


1.Boot Camp-style workouts are still top the American Council on Exercise's list.

Popular because they give you a total-body workout that's varied, fun and challenging.
You burn a lot of calories (up to 600)
You get a great cardiovascular workout,
You strengthen your muscles with high- and low-intensity exercises like pushups, squats and lunges. 
You don't usually get as much muscle fitness benefits in other aerobic exercises.

2. Budget-Friendly Workouts:
With today's struggling economy, more people will cut costs to stay in shape. 
Of the Council on Exercises certified professionals surveyed, 48 percent said gym memberships will go down in 2009 and 52 percent said fewer people will hire personal trainers.

3. Specialty Classes:
Yoga and Pilates will stay strong, but dance-based classes will be all the rage in 2009! 
Zumba combines South American rhythms with cardiovascular exercise. 
And Bollywood, ballroom, Afro-Cuban and other exotic dance styles are getting more popular thanks to shows like Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance.

4. Getting Back to Basics: Even though many exercises and equipment are becoming more advanced and trendy, trainers will continue to focus on basic movements and techniques with their clients again.

5.Technology-Based Fitness:
From iPods to Cardio Cinema to exergaming (i.e., Wii Fit, Expresso Bikes) the latest in technology will continue to infuse itself in all aspects of fitness.  In 2009, look for more interactive video games that have fitness benefits, as well as new inventions to make exercising a more engaging experience.

6. Kettlebells:
The reason for the surge is that it gets back to basic training that requires functional, whole body fitness. The movements work your entire body, especially your core, as you lift and control the kettlebell.

7. Circuit Training:
Studies have shown that interval training that combines strength training and cardio at different intensities is more time-efficient than doing the traditional aerobic and weight training sessions.  

NEW WEBSITES OF INTEREST


Some hot new websites to tell you about... Makeovermatic can be found at IVILLAGE.com. You upload your photo - and you can check out different looks for yourself.  You can change your hair style, hair color, whiten your teeth, try different eyeshadows and lipsticks, try colored contacts, try on hats, sunglasses. and see how you'd look with different things. Then MARIECLAIRE.com lets you try mainly hair colors and highlights and decide how intense you would want them and WOWoWOW.com is a bunch of blogs from famous celebrities over the age of 40 - sort of like watching the second half of the today show and lades here's a great one for you - POPGADGET.net - its all about the tech world from a woman perspective.

MEN'S TREND: MANSCAPING


Now turning to the trend with men this year that keeps gaining momentum each month... MANSCAPING. Men are paying for costly cosmetic procedures such as laser hair removal and Botox in unprecedented numbers, with MEN making up half the clientele at some city salons. Men these days are a bit more body-conscious and for a lot of them. Its now called "manscaping"." For Botox, most of them are professionals. For laser, there are lots of builders, bankers, all sorts. electricians, plumbers, athletes. Most men now request hair removal from their chest, back or neckline.

ECONOMIC TREND: THE LIPSTICK EFFECT


When times are tough, consumers stop spending on big-ticket items. Car sales are down by a third; the drop in demand for mortgages has taken it's toll of spending on carpets and furniture but, according to one economist, an analyst with RAB Capital - recent figures from the world's big cosmetic companies - like L'Oreal, and Shiseido - confirmed that the so-called "lipstick effect" has returned as the global economy heads downward....as consumers increase their spending on cosmetics even while economizing on everything else. "The evidence shows that when budgets are squeezed, people simply substitute large extravagances for small luxuries," The "lipstick effect" can be traced back to the Great Depression of the 1930s. In the four years from 1929 to 1933 industrial production in the US halved, but sales of cosmetics rose. More recently, employment in the US cosmetics sector went up in the recessions of 1990 and 2001 while jobs in the rest of manufacturing were being shed. The lipstick effect apparently shows up in stock market performance, and the European personal products sector has outperformed the broader market by an average of 100 per cent in each of the three past recessions of the early 1980s, early 1990s and early 2000s.

NEW TREND: SPY SCHOOL WORKOUTS


Ever thought about being a spy? How about acrobatics and international espionage? In Los Angeles, many are turning to 'Spy School' as their workout regime. It promises to make a Bond-girl physique body with a full body transformation.

It teaches everything James Bond has mastered - firing a weapon, scaling the side of a building and aerial trapeze to hand to hand combat and disguise. Based in West Hollywood, Absolution Gym began as the largest and most award-winning Pilates studio in Los Angeles. It then added Spy School, it's most requested program. The 30 hour course is spread over 8 weeks, taught by over 30 instructors. The owner is Sascha Ferguson, once married to CBS late night talk show host Craig Ferguson, she opened the school once she was out on her own. She says clients come from all over the world and tell friends about it.

DENTAL SPAS


There's a hot trend in Hollywood these days. Dental spas, where you go get your mouth worked on while doing manicures pedicures and even facials. And now...Dentists around the world are catching onto something California dentists have spearheaded. The trend is now spreading throughout the world. In the U.S, about 50% of dentists now offer some sort of spa element, according to an American Dental Association survey. Everything is offered from: herbal neck rests and warm towels as well as complimentary relaxing beverages but larger dental spas offer revitalizing facials, paraffin hand wax, manicure, pedicure, reflexology and massage.

Zen like decor, aromatherapy, relaxing videos and music; Dr. Eddie Simans 'Millennium Dental', Sherman Oaks, California is one of the most sought after cosmetic dentists in Los Angeles with some of Hollywood's big names as clients. According to Dr. Lynn Watanabe, who formed the International Dental Spa Association in 2002, major cities like Los Angeles and New York are leading the way but it's still a new concept to many. Watantabe says patients must do their homework saying not all dental spas provide proper treatments and or use licensed professionals.

WHEATGRASS: HOLLYWOODS WAKEUP


When it comes to health - the trend in the mornings in LA is having your "wheatgrass". Yes, it tastes like you're licking your front lawn - but it's so good for you. It energizes your day. 1 ounce is the equivalent of eating 2 and a half pounds of leafy greens.

It recharges your body - fewer hours of sleep are needed and it bolsters your immune system. Do it on an empty stomach and do it a few times a day if you can. I take it and feel the difference within a couple of days. Wheatgrass is considered a life sustaining food with more than 60 enzymes.

PERFUME BARS IN LA


There's a new trend in LA..It's the fragrance bar. A perfume shop…otherwise known as a scent bar. "Scent Bar" in LA is for people who like smells. The experience is like going to a wine bar. You learn everything about them.

Scent bar in La is at 8327 Beverly Blvd.

www.luckyscent.com

LATEST TRENDS: PLASTIC SURGERY


Reality TV has been fueling the trend in plastic surgery...According to a report published in the Medical Journal of Australia - reality TV programs like the Biggest Loser are responsible for the huge increase in people getting plastic surgery and weight reduction surgery. It says the number of procedures climbed by about 15% in most countries, between 2006 and 07 with more patients admitting "appearance medicine" shows motivated them. The problem is: the rate of weight loss and other appearance changes seem extremely fast due to the time being condensed into a program format. Complications, infections and failed procedures are barely mentioned - giving the impression that negative outcomes are rare and the environments which appearance medicine programs are filmed are often highly artificial, as most people don't have access to the same level of resources, equipment, personal trainers and chefs.

Meantime…when it comes to plastic surgery in Hollywood these days - the trend is no longer the tight look. It's volume in the face. Its all about a softer, fuller, more youthful look. Volume is now created with injectible fillers and surgery.

NESTLE: EATABLE BEAUTY PRODUCT


The world's largest food and beverage company has introduced Glowelle, a beauty drink that proclaims to have antiaging properties. has created a new drinkable cosmetic product called Glowelle. Nestle is going after prestige beauty consumers. To reach them, it's decided to begin selling Glowelle at luxury retailer Neiman Marcus where the drink will be sold alongside conventional cosmetics. The product itself is formulated with vitamins, phyto-nutrients and botanical and fruit extracts. The bottled drinks come in two flavors, raspberry jasmine and pomegranate lychee, and are available for $7 a pop at Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman department stores. The blends claim to "nourish and hydrate the skin from within and help fight free radicals, known contributors to the signs of aging."

HOT BEAUTY PICK: SKIN RENEW ANTI-PUFF EYE ROLLER


Sarah Jessica Parker uses it...gets rid of those bags under your eyes.

It's Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller from Garnier Nutrioniste - the company that was established in Paris at the turn of the 20th century and comes in that bright lime green packaging.

It's got caffeine in it, along with Pro Vitamin B5 and glycerin.

Sinks into the skin and instantly zaps away those lines with a gentle glide massaging roller.

SENNA COSMETICS: CELEBRITY MAKE UP ARTIST TIPS


Emmy nominated celebrity makeup artist Eugenia Weston is one of Hollywood's go to makeup artist for celebs...she owns Senna Cosmetics.

Her celebrity client list includes Jessica Simpson, Ashlee Simpson, Paula Abdul, Bette Midler, Elizabeth Berkley, Tori Spelling & many more.

I had a chance to speak to Waston about current style trends at a cocktail party at her Beverly Hills shop recently for the launch of her new line.

The secret she says to great makeup is to stay current.

and one of the biggest cosmetics bought by women today...lipplumpers..which are the best ones?

(for audio, click LISTEN and go to Oct 4, 2008 show)

By the way....the one i say works best: its called EXTREME by a company called TWO FACED. Available at Sephora or online.

YOGA: NEW FINDINGS


There's a trend in exercise that has definitely swept the mainstream.

Yoga....and its medicinal powers.

Experts say we are continuously unhappy with the effectiveness of conventional medicine and are looking for new ways to take control of our health....Yoga has been the answer for so many.

An estimated 62% of adults have used yoga in some form of complimentary and alternative medicine.

It helps treat back pain, colds, neck problems, joint stiffness and anxiety or depression.

Interesting thing it does: Yoga can help heart disease and the symptoms of menopause.

It helps levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

There was a controlled study in India that examined the effects on 113 patients with coronary artery disease who were taking medication.

The study shows that those who received yoga instruction, lifestyle recommendations and a healthy diet had a 23% drop in cholesterol - from 247 to 185 compared with 45 among those who did not.

They also had a drop in the bad cholesterol .

Yoga is also known now to improve the quality of life of women treated for breast cancer.

Women need to do it twice a week around the time of their radiation - if they do - they often feel better in just one week, helping them feel less fatigue.

DR. MAO: HOLLYWOODS HOLISTIC DOCTOR TO THE STARS


So you want to live a longer, happier life...

There's a book out called " The Secrets of Longevity " from Dr. Maoshing Ni - known as Dr. Mao here in Hollywood. He is the most respected veteran Chinese medicine and accupuncturist doctor who stars lineup to see. He is a 38th generation doctor and THE expert on longevity.

Quote from Jim Carrey: "Undergoing treatments with Dr.Mao at the Tao of Wellness and following nutritional advice has let to a marked change in my physical vitality and my general state of well-being."

From Helen Hunt...."Dr. Mao brings generations of experience, an abundance of knowledge about both Eastern and Western medicine and his own good heart and his remarkable work."

In the book Secrets of Longevity - Dr. Mao spoke to those who've lived to a hundred or more and found some common factors. He has 3 great tips to living to be 100. One is sleep your way to longevity. Dr. Mao was even the topic of an episode of Sex and the City - where Charlotte had to ge into the top clinic for feritility. He has a large celebrity following.

(for audio - click LISTEN and go to Sept 27, 2008 show)

USA today reports...lifestyle habits play a huge role in keeping the body and mind in top shape well into the eighth and ninth decade of life, says Thomas Perls, an aging expert at Boston University School of Medicine and study director.

Many of the centenarians in this study blew the top off the common assumption that old age must be filled with pain and disability.

"I started to slow down in my late 80s," McBurney says. Slowing down for him still includes a daily mile-long walk to his office in Quinter, Kan., where he runs a business that produces about 7,000 pounds of honey each year. He drives a car, works in his garden, and he's still tending about 100 colonies of bees.

Perls found that many of the super-agers in his study had lived well past 90 without the disabling symptoms of heart disease, diabetes or even Alzheimer's. Of course, researchers can offer no guarantee that people who make lifestyle changes will live to age 100. But this study's findings suggest that most people can live well past 65.

Lose weight.

Or if you're at an ideal body weight now, stay there. Extra weight puts a strain on your heart and other crucial body systems and puts people at risk of heart attacks, diabetes, cancer and other diseases that can shorten life, says Robert Butler, director of the International Longevity Center-USA in New York. Most Americans simply eat too much: The experts recommend cutting back on calories, a step that will help trim the waistline and, if drastic enough, might even extend life. New research suggests animals that are fed far fewer calories live longer - about 40% longer.

Learn something new.

Take up ballroom dancing, chess, a language or photography. "Any time you have to work at something new you're probably doing good things for your brain," says Gene Cohen, director of the Center on Aging at the George Washington University in Washington, D.C. People who learn new skills or information probably build new brain cells and make connections between existing neurons, he says.

Shape up.

Research suggests that regular exercise can help prevent or delay a laundry list of diseases, including heart disease, colon cancer, diabetes and even Alzheimer's. The experts say most North Americans should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise 5 days a week or more.

And it's never too late to start a fitness program, says Richard Hodes, director of the National Institute on Aging. Even seniors who've never been active before can work up to a fitness routine that will help keep them strong for years to come. Walking, swimming, dancing - even gardening and housework - can help people stay in shape, he says.

And here's one area where people can start to turn back the clock: Research shows most people lose 22% of their muscle mass by age 70, a process that leaves them prone to deadly falls. But Perls says people can reverse that aspect of aging with simple, daily strength exercises.

If you smoke, stop.

In the USA alone, tobacco-related diseases cause more than 400,000 deaths a year. Yet nearly 50 million Americans still smoke.

Socialize.

Go to a party, join a movie club, help out at a church picnic. Research suggests that people who build and maintain friendships and family relationships often are healthier and seem to recover from illness faster, Cohen says. Social connections may ward off depression and seem to boost the body's immune system, which helps fight infection.

Reduce stress.

Take a walk, pray, meditate or have lunch with a friend. Scientists say that people who build stress- busting habits into their daily routine gain a big health benefit. Unhealthy stress puts people at risk of getting sick or developing chronic diseases that can cut life short, Perls says.

Adopt a can-do attitude.

Research shows that people who live to be 100 often take an optimistic approach to life's setbacks.

Super-agers either are born with a happy-go-lucky personality that helps them through the inevitable stress that life brings or they develop coping mechanisms that help them weather upsets like a death or a divorce, Perls says.

Eat a healthy diet.

Diets that include at least 10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day might help prevent age- related damage to cells. Fruits and veggies, the more colorful the better, contain protective substances that might help ward off diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Most longevity experts recommend cutting down on fatty, salty foods. Go for lean meats, poultry and fish, as well as a wide variety of fresh fruits, veggies and whole grain foods.

Get a good night's sleep.

New research shows that sleep deprivation can lead to memory lapses, depression and immune system problems. Scientists say that sleep deprivation may not be a natural part of aging.

Get regular checkups.

CELEBRITY WORKOUTS


Now turning to celebrity workouts and the trends today with celebrity workouts.

Want to know what they actually do to keep those bodies? OK I've got the rundown. The exact list for you.

Madonna practices yoga. What kind? Ashtanga yoga.

It focuses on breath as well as the standard poses. She practiced Hatha yoga a while back and while she was pregnant but switched and now does this daily. Ashtanga is faster and helps build stamina.

Also big yoga fans? Nicole Kidman and Kate Beckinsale.

Matthew McConaughy: has a trainer to help him keep his jogging routine. He says he has to break a sweat every single day. He doesn't go to gym at all. Says he'd rather leave 45 minutes earlier and jog somewhere rather than take the car.

Meg Ryan runs. At least 4 kilometers at a time. and uses a stair machine.

Calling all Pilates lovers:

Sarah Jessica Parker loves her Pilates and does it twice a week. Gwyneth Paltrow says she's a Pilates 'addict'. She even built a Pilates studio in her homes in New York and the Hamptons.

Jennifer Aniston is into it. Jen says its helped with her troubled back and pinched nerve.

Courtney Cox is into it as are Liz Hurley, Liv Tyler and Denise Richards.

Kickboxing is what Eva Longoria Parker as does Jesscia alba.

Eva also does yoga regularly. 2 sessions of yoga with 3 one hour personal training sessions per week.

Brooke Shields is into weight training at the gym.

Pam Anderson is addicted to the treadmill. Says it's the fastest way to stay fit and keep your heart rate down.

Also at the gym: Paris Hilton, Lucy Lui and Jennifer Garner.

Matt Damon is into boxing. He says "I just figure if you get hit enough times- it will fall off. if you put it on, its easier to get it off"

Uma Thurman likes swimming out in the ocean and Nicole Kidman swims laps in an indoor pool and Demi Moore, well she loves mountain biking and she wakes up daily at 4am and cycles up to 30 kilometers!

Getting the Hollywood Smile


Halle Berry has one. George Clooney just bought one. Spent 30 thousand dollars on it. What is it? A perfect Hollywood smile.

According to an American Academy of Ceramic Dentistry survey a new smile will make you appear more intelligent, interesting, successful and wealthy - while 74% of adults feel an unattractive smile can hurt their changes for career advancement.

Whitening and porcelain 'veneers' remain the most popular choice. Dentist to the stars Dr. Robert Rifkin has sculpted some of the most famous mouths in the world. In his office, I couldn't count how may celebrity A - list celebrities he's done. He has sworn me to secrecy, but trust me - they're the biggest names. Rifkin's practice is top of the line but it can set you back $37 hundred dollars per tooth. but these are 'spectacular' teeth.

Wing-Suit Jumping


Actor Bill Murray recently kicked off the festivities for Illionios 50th Annual Chicago Air and Water Show 2008 by perfoming a skydive in front of everyone.

He's not alone in his desire to jump from the skies - There a new trend in sky diving today and its called "wing suit jumping" and you wear a suit that makes you look like a winged bird and you jump out of the plane but you fly across the sky- not straight down. You get to take in the sites like never before.

If you see these people - they look like big billed birds in funny suits. It's amazing and those who do it swear by it as the absolute best.

I caught up with John Hamilton, who runs Skydive Elsinore - here in California - one of the biggest sky diving facilities in all of North America. (for interview LISTEN to audio portion of show September 13, 2008)

The trend is so hot today. and. I'm noticing something - what's great is - people can glide TOGETHER - even holding hands as they fly across. Go to YouTube - you'll see dozens of clips.

36 year old Troy Hartman fly's out of Elsinore all the time. He used to teaches skysurfing - but now this has taken over and knows why people like this so much.

and if 'you' want to get into the sport?

(LISTEN to audio portion of show September 13, 2008)

BODY MELT


The newest beauty fitness treatment is called BODY MELT and it does just that. It melts away your pounds and the company says in just 1 session. They're doing it in West Hollywood at Equinox Spa and Gym on the Sunset Strip, it's one of the 'few' spas offering it.

BODY MELT promises to improve muscle tone, reduce cellulite and work at the cellular level fighting the deep toxins. The procedure? You lie there, they brush you to increase circulation. They then drip a serum on your stomach that includes a diuretic to speed up your water loss.

Then they douse you with CLAY. You're hooked up with electrical cords to your chest and legs, the clay works as an electrical conductor and the electric pulses - contract the muscles - making you release toxins breaking down the fat.

They say, and users say, it really works. In fact, last year American Spa Magazine voted BODY MELT the #1 cellulite treatment in America.

The cost: $210 US for an 80 minute session. That comes to $2.70 cents a minute or $27 dollars a pound.

Equinox in West Hollywood: 310-289-1900