Cinco Vidas

Want to test out that new lipstick color? You’ll find a tester at the makeup counter—but you may want to think twice before using it.

A recent study conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Brooks, a biological sciences professor at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, found that lipstick, moisturizer, and mascara testers were contaminated with E. coli, staph, and strep bacteria. The percentage of testers contaminated? A whopping 100 percent! (more…)

Bob Hope was once quoted as saying, “I have a wonderful makeup crew. They’re the same people restoring the Statue of Liberty.”

While you’re going through cancer treatment, you may feel the same as Mr. Hope on some days. Skin can look dry, blotchy, red, and sallow, even mottled with acne. Fortunately, we have foundation to even out those flaws.

There’s really no one “right” way to apply foundation, but there are a few things you should be careful of while you’re going through treatment. Here are a few basics to help you get your best face. (more…)

Once hair extensions took off in the fashion world it wasn’t long before eyelash extensions came along. Silk and polyester threads designed to mimic natural lashes are dipped into glues and then applied (using sharp tweezers) to the root of the individual lashes on the upper eyelid. If you’re going through chemotherapy and losing your eyelashes, you may be thinking about extensions. Can you guess what we’re going to tell you? Uh-huh. Avoid them!
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Are you an animal lover? So much that you’re loath to wear fur coats or even leather boots? Would you describe your diet as vegan—leaving out all animal products like eggs, dairy, and cheese? Even if you don’t see yourself this way, cancer fighters and survivors may be interested to know—some manufacturers are making beauty products that leave out all animal ingredients, and potentially dangerous chemicals, in an effort to be labeled “vegan,” and appeal to those who embrace the vegan lifestyle. (more…)

The First Lady, Michelle Obama, is talking about food. She’s encouraging children to eat healthier, and parents to offer more nutritious meals and snacks. We have an obesity epidemic to deal with, and it’s great that we have some leadership in helping our children to overcome this dangerous trend.

Isn’t it interesting, though, that as we grow more and more conscious of the food we’re putting in our mouths, we’re still applying all kinds of chemicals to our bodies on a daily basis? The skin has the potential to absorb the toxic ingredients in those products, but many still haven’t gotten the message that what’s listed on the bottle could end up inside the body. Hopefully, Cinco Vidas readers are being more careful!

Women are especially at risk, as we use so many more products than men, particularly make-up products. Let’s talk about three of the most concerning items—these may be in your makeup bag right now. (more…)

It’s hard enough being a teenager without throwing cancer into the mix. There are all the cliques at school, worrying about your wardrobe, trying to fit in, after-school activities, and somewhere in there, hoping to get good grades to make it into college. Dealing with cancer can definitely put you into overload, and then trying to still look good…is it even possible? Especially with dry skin, redness or acne?

Cancer definitely changes your face. It may be hard to recognize yourself in the mirror on some mornings. Following are some tips to help you camouflage problem areas without overdoing it, or putting a huge dent in your already crammed schedule. Of course, remember to always use non-toxic, natural products! (more…)

Many natural makeup brushes are made with squirrel hair.

If you regularly use brushes to apply your makeup, you know the advantages—they make it easier to control application, blend, and create a natural look, without the contamination risks of using your fingers. But when it comes to what kind of brushes to use, should you choose synthetic or animal hair?

For years the professionals have preferred animal-hair brushes, citing their softness, ability to “carry” color, and usefulness for specific natural-looking applications. But we wondered—are animals harmed in the making of animal-hair brushes? (more…)

Have you jumped on the mineral makeup bandwagon? If so, you’re probably enjoying the benefits. Mineral makeup doesn’t clog or irritate pores, contains few (if any) preservatives or dyes, feels lightweight, and often includes ingredients that are good for the skin, like sunscreen (e.g., zinc oxide) and anti-inflammatories. However, they also contain very small particles that may pose some health risks. (more…)

In a former post, we discussed the different types of bronzers and gave you tips on how to choose the best one for your skin. Now we’ll give you some guidelines for the perfect application.

1. Choose the right shade. “Women often choose a bronzer that’s too dark for their skin and blend it all over their face, which looks muddy,” says makeup artist Mally Roncal. “Pick a shade that’s golden—not brown—on your skin, and wear it with a rosy blush for a more realistic finish.” When you test it, the bronzer should look tan on your skin, not muddy. (more…)

Everyone has facial flaws they want to hide—even models and celebrities. Is it any wonder concealer is one of the most popular makeup products?

If you’re going through cancer treatment, you may have a few more flaws you didn’t have before, like acne, dry flakes, or scars. Here are a few tips for how best to use concealer to smooth out your skin’s appearance. (more…)