Beauty Article

There has been an increase recently in Americans' obsessions to look and feel better. Reality makeover programs such as "Extreme Makeover" use cosmetic surgery to erase signs of aging or to change the size and shape of specific body parts. However
for some people
invasive procedures are not an option.

Many are afraid to undergo surgery because of the risks or the expense that is often associated with these cosmetic procedures. Fortunately
there are now products that can be used in the privacy of your own home for a fraction of the cost
are more convenient and offer great results.

For years
those searching to get rid of fine lines and get that healthy glow went to a physician for microdermabrasion
a treatment where dead skin cells are removed with tiny silicon or aluminum-oxide crystals blown against the skin using a hand-held device and then sucked up with a small vacuum. Costing about $1
200
a visit
the procedure was not easy on the wallet. But there's a new generation of at-home alternatives that allows you to get similar results within weeks. Creams and serums that contain Retinol (pure vitamin A) exfoliate the skin
giving a more youthful appearance. Those who want to go a step further can now buy their own high-tech beauty treatment system
a microdermabrasion machine
at a cost of $79.95 (www.sharperimage.com).

Some women are unhappy with the size or shape of their bust. They might have always wished they were a cup size larger so that their clothes fit them better
or they may have noticed changes in their shape after childbirth. Regardless of the reason
many of these women are afraid or unwilling to undergo the pain associated with implants. Others are simply not willing to fork over the average $5
0
cost for surgery. Now there is another option available
a system that is clinically proven to grow a woman's own natural breasts about a cup size without surgery
pills or creams.

These are just a few of the do-it-yourself at home beauty treatments that are easier on your wallet
provide you with more control of your looks and can be done on your own time. To find out more about these treatments
log on to their Web sites or try the procedures yourself for the ultimate proof. - NU