In fact, there are more differences across populations depending on regions, age, geographical location, climate, skincare habits. White, whiter, whitest - this may be lethal

In Asian countries, pale skin has had same significance for centuries: sophistication, innocence, feminity and high social standard. That is why Asian women have always been looking for skin care products to whiten their skin. They used to prepare "skin whiteners", by grinding pearl from seashells into powder and swallowing it. Today's cosmetics are safer and more reasonable. New skin whitening products appear every year, posing less dangers to women's health or life.

Still, these whitening lotions, serums, correctors and essences may involve risks worth taking into account. According to Asian dermatologists, danger comes from mercury. If safety allowance limits are exceeded, mercury (the best known whitening agent) may cause death. Unfortunately, some products include high doses of mercury, which are damaging to central nervous system and kidneys, and especially to development of brain in a foetus or a child.

So, pale skin is not happiest choice for an Asian woman, after all. Neither is dark skin. So, what should they do? Using proper skincare products and sunscreeen (if exposed to real sun or indoor session) is best choice for life, not only for Asian women but also for anybody who cares about skin and health.

Juan Valdez (Carlos Sanchez) made sort of a come-back in year 2000, when he received silver cross medal for national merit, from Mr. President of Columbia himself, Andres Pastrana.

The National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia opened its first 'Juan Valdez' Coffee shop in Bogota airport, in december 2002. The appearance of Juan Valdez in movie 'Bruce Almighty' costed Federation $1,5 millions.

At this moment (the year 2004), symbol of Columbian coffee, is trying to make a breakthrough to North America. The first 'Juan Valdez' coffee house was opened in september 2004 in Washington, and seccond one month later in New York.

Ultimately, Juan Valdez aims heart of American coffee-making, Seattle. Starbucks officials stated they do not feel threatened by famous moustachioed as far. Gabriel Silva, Columbian Federation's manager, said in return they're not planning to open 8,000 or 10,000 Juan Valdez establishments.