By Priya Kailash

Published November 19, 2009

River Falls, there are only three remaining issues of the Student Voice left, yet so many style tips and fashion advice still remain.

No worries though, as the fashion column can be anticipated into the next semester. For the graduating seniors, get your dose of necessary fashion tips or ask style questions at uwrfvoice.com by clicking on the Fashion tab.

The preceding weeks have been surprisingly warm-weathered, but don’t be fooled, as the cold winds are just on the horizon. The incoming waves of dry air and excessive temperature changes can wreck havoc on some people’s skin. What good is great fashion if the glow of a face isn’t present to compliment it even further?

Even though this week’s item focuses on just one product to help with one’s skin, remember that a regular and consistent skin regime is important. Various methods of purification and cleansing can help improve one’s mood, attitude, and thus confidence.

Item of the week: Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an essential oil that is obtained from a plant that is native to Australia called Melaleuca alternifolia. The oil extracted from said plant has been traditionally used to treat many skin conditions such as acne and other skin disorders.

This treatment is perfect for skin that is oily or combination, as it has oil-controlling properties. However, it can be applied just to the affected areas on dry skin, acquiring the same effective results without over-drying the skin.

As with any product, be aware that everyone has skin properties that are unique, so I would recommend testing out a small patch and expanding it to the entire face as the reaction and beneficial effects are self-analyzed.

An ideal time to apply this product would be before going to bed, as the skin absorbs the most during sleep (why it is very important to wash off all impurities and makeup before sleeping).

To apply, wash your face with a mild cleanser and dry your face completely. Using a cotton ball, apply the tree tea oil to the entire face or to the affected areas. Be aware that it does have a slight smell, and a tingling feeling, which should dissipate eventually.

Even though skin is not completely accurate in reflecting one’s inner health, eating healthily and drinking lots of water definitely have their benefits. Choosing items such as cucumbers, tomatoes and color-rich fruits over oily or overprocessed food is not only good for the skin, but also great for one’s body. 

This week’s featured student is Martha Torning, one of the most stylish ladies on campus. This “hottie with a body” is an avid shoes shopper with over 30 pairs and a “little black dress” that can knock your socks off.

Torning’s unique eye for patterns and color coordination makes her an ideal feature. Read up on her style and check out her photoshoot by clicking “view” under Photo Gallery, above the small picture. The pictures, while highlighting her best features, also offer style and fashion hints. All of this can be found under the “Fashion” tab at the Student Voice Web site, uwrfvoice.com.

Next week’s feature is Aly Meier, a girl with fashion and personality that is all her own. Meier’s unique style and “punk” fashion makes her an exciting and an interesting feature that is sure to add some spice.