Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts

Monday, 19 May 2014

Laser Hair Removal Tips

So you have decided to immerse yourself in the fantasy of luxurious beauty that is going to define you as you go through the laser hair removal treatment. But the journey of the experience starts much before the actual permanent hair removal solution starts. There are several steps that you need to take before and after the laser hair treatment which will ensure that you have a quick, permanent and safe hair removal solution. Whether you are looking for laser hair, nyc or you are seeking laser hair removal, Houston the following discussion points are vital for the success of the treatment.

If you have just spent some time in a tanning bed or basking in the sun at your favorite beach, then do not opt for laser hair removal. The skin reaction of a tanned skin is not favorable when its under the laser treatment and might have some undesirable side effects. Of all laser hair removal tips, this is the most vital one. For people with a darker pigmentation i.e. darker skin color, a skin-lightening procedure such as bleaching should be undergone as a prerequisite to the laser hair removal treatment. However, this bleaching should not be done within the last 10 days to two weeks before the laser treatment. The other thing to keep in mind is the shorter the visible hair that needs to be removed, the better the effect of the lasers. So shaving of the unwanted hair a couple of days before the laser treatment will accelerate the effect of the lasers. Of course, it’s a must that you consult your physician before you undertake this permanent hair removal solution for if you are suffering from an ailment like genital herpes or cold sores or skin acne, you might require to take some medication before going under the lasers.

Keeping these key laser hair removal tips in mind will guarantee you not just a great hair removal experience, but a personal after-glow of confidence and happiness that will stand you in good stead for a long time to come. Like we mentioned before, whether you are looking for laser hair, nyc or you are seeking laser hair removal Houston, no matter where you are, remember to act on these gems of wisdom!

Special Natural Skin Care For Babies

We spend hours and countless amounts of money on our own personal skin care, trying different lotions and potions to find the perfect product for our needs. Our babies deserve the same special attention when selecting skin care products as well.

Babies and little children seldom actually need lotions and creams unless they have dry skin. Commercial products on the market contain synthetics and chemicals that can be harsh on tender skin, so many parents are opting for natural skin care and bath products for their babies.

For babies and toddlers especially, the skin care product most frequently used are baby wipes, and the perfumes and dyes found in commercial brands can play havoc with their sensitive bottoms. Parents use baby wipes not only at diaper changes, but for all sorts of reasons, cleaning little faces and hands being two very common tasks. Although possible to find brands with little synthetics, another alternative is to make home-made baby wipes to make certain the ingredients are all natural.

Another skin care problem parents with babies face is diaper rash. Even with the best of changing routines, diaper rash can occur, and frequently applying chemical rash creams can often aggravate the problem even more, causing prolonged discomfort for baby. Help prevent diaper rash with frenquent diaper changes and cleaning baby with natural soap and water.

Natural Baby Wipes

1/4 cup aloe vera juice

4 drops lavender essential oil

1/2 roll paper towels cut lengthwise

1/4 cup water

2 drops tea tree oil

Simply mix the ingredients and store in a plastic container.

There are many natural baby and child skin care products available online. Marlo Quinn is a new natural skin care company with impeccable skin care products for families. It’s also possible to prepare natural baby wipes at home using the recipe above. Products made from natural ingredients are the best choice for babies and children.

Know Your Enemy Acne Basic Training

You have company — acne affects almost everyone. It strikes nearly 85% of the population between the ages of 12 and 24. 40% of acne sufferers have breakouts severe enough to require medical treatment.

Acne doesn’t show favorites. Men and women of all races during adolescence and adulthood are nearly equally prone to acne.

Location

It’s a widespread skin condition characterized by lesions that break out on the skin. The lesions form as whiteheads, blackheads, or cysts because pores get clogged.

The so-called ‘T zone’ of the face — the nose, the chin and forehead — are the most common areas for pimples to appear. The back is the second most common area for acne, followed by the neck, chest, and shoulders.

Timing

Usually acne first attacks during adolescence, most often at puberty because that’s when the body starts producing an abundance of an oily substance called sebum. Normally a good thing, sebum keeps the hair and skin soft and lubricated. But during puberty, the body produces too much. The excess oil clogs the pores and leaves the skin feeling oily.

Puberty also triggers an excess production of follicle cells. Dying cells quickly build up and combine with sebum to form whiteheads. The oil and dead cell creates a breeding ground for bacteria that creates redness and swelling in the area resulting in pimples.

A Bad Image

Acne becomes a self-image difficulty for many people because it affects their appearance. Teenagers are particularly at risk as acne can cause feelings of reduced self-confidence and even depression. It causes some to withdraw from social interactions and others become angry and troubled.

Most people find their acne has cleared up by the time they reach their 20s. Although for some it can last throughout their adult years.

Treatable

The good news is there are many modern medical treatments for acne. The first line of defense is to keep the skin clean and oil-free. Do this by gently washing with soap and water twice a day, especially following activities or conditions that cause perspiration. There is a wide variety of medical treatments available, both prescribed and over-the-counter.

For serious cases, a dermatologist is needed for advice about nutrition, lifestyle changes, topical medications, and antibiotics that fight the bacteria causing pimples.

Don’t just look in the mirror and cringe. Fight back!

The Whole Truth About Fading Acne Scars

Unsightly scars that appear on the face are usually the result of severe acne. Cystic acne or common acne that has ruptured are the main causes. It is a common problem that most people desire to have corrected as soon as their acne finally clears up. There is the option to have a procedure done in a doctor’s office to fade acne scars, as well as things you can do yourself at home.

Some people would be pleased with the appearance of their face if only they could just find a way to fade their acne scars. These are usually attention-drawing red or purple and are hard to cover up. Since scars are permanent, it is desirable to find a way to lessen their appearance. There are over-the-counter creams that can gradually fade acne scars. Mederma is available without prescription and even offers a money-back guarantee. It doesn’t claim to completely rid your face of scars, but it will visibly fade them. Mederma is expensive but one tube can go a long way. And if the scar fades then repeated usage is not necessary. If the scar is indented, the appearance of the scar is mainly caused by the shadow. The way this is treated it through basic collagen injections.

There are skin resurfacing treatments available that can reduce the visibility of acne scars. They usually require more than one visit and could become expensive. The common procedures done to fade acne scars are dermabrasion and laser treatment. The long-term safety of laser treatment is uncertain so there has been controversy and debate surrounding this procedure. Dermabrasion is safe but you will have to endure recovery afterwards.

Daily exfoliation and application of Vitamin E oil is an effective way to fade acne scars cheaply at home. Most people do not want to spend a lot of money on something cosmetic and this is a very safe way. The longer the scar has been present, the more difficult it will be to alter its appearance. It may be possible to fade acne scars at home if they are mild. Lemon juice has been a success in fading scars for many people. The citric acid that it contains help to remove dead skin cells, increase skin elasticity, and help new cell growth. It could be irritating for people with sensitive skin but it will most likely fade the scars. Aloe Vera is also known for its healing ability and could also help to fade scars. The best aloe to use is determined by how much of it is combined with inactive ingredients that can dilute the healing properties.

An exfoliating serum that you can purchase is the Bliss Sleeping Pill Serum. It uses amino acids to exfoliate you skin and lighten dark scars. Another over-the-counter way to fade acne scars is with a product called Advance Complex Fade Gel. It is used for treatment of dark spots, such as scars, and is specially formulated for people with dark skin. It also contains sunscreen to keep the dark spots from ever coming back.

How To Get Rid Of Acne 3 Steps Toward A Fair Complexion

There are many types of acne, but the most common form occurs during the teenage years when young adults experience a dramatic increase in hormone levels. These hormones signal the skin glands to produce more oil. When this oil mixes with dead cells, it can clog pores in the skin and trap bacteria as well. The result is often a raised tissue area characterized by swelling, redness, and pus. These bumps are also known as “pimples,” the symptom most commonly associated with acne.

Acne can occur anywhere on the face, neck, back, or chest, and severe cases can lead to social alienation, or emotional and physical scars. Although mild acne can not be entirely prevented, you can take three steps to minimize its impact.

Gently Cleanse Your Skin: Each day, gently wash your skin with lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing your face too hard or washing it too often. Doing so can make your acne worse. Also avoid using skin and hair care products that contain excess oil. Instead, use water-based skin care soaps that gently cleanse your skin, such as Neutrogena or Dove.

Apply Topical Ointments: At least once daily, but no more than three times a day, apply a nonprescription topical ointment to problematic areas. One of the best products is Clearasil because it contains both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Benzoyl peroxide works to unplug clogged pores, while salicylic acid helps clear up blemishes by causing the top layer of skin to peel. Products that contain tea tree oil (commonly found in gels, creams, and lotions) or alpha-hydroxy acid are also desirable. However, remember that if you use a product too often, your acne can get worse. So confine your applications to less than three times per day unless otherwise directed by a doctor.

Avoid the Following: Make sure to avoid the following acts which can trigger acne flare-ups: overexposure to the sun, the wearing of tight-fitting items that rub against the skin, excess stress, constant touching of the face, working with oils or harsh chemicals, excessive sweating, hair hanging in your face, or the use of hair care products that contain oils. Also avoid squeezing pimples. Squeezing pimples can result in an infection and/or long-term scaring.

While mild acne is annoying, it will eventually pass. Most people will outgrow acne by their early-twenties, so there is reason to be optimistic. Make each of the above steps part of your daily routine, and you should be able to control your acne. However, those with more severe cases of acne should consult a dermatologist.

Acne Myths True Or False

We’ll just come out and say it; there is a lot of misleading and downright wrong information out there about acne. Thankfully, scientific research has dispelled a lot of these ‘acne myths’. We now have a pretty good idea of what does and does not cause acne. Let’s take a look at seven of the biggest of these acne myths.

True or False? Find out the truth about common acne and its myths

Acne Myth #1: Acne is caused by eating certain foods

This one has been around a long time yet is supported by exactly no scientific proof. Although certain individuals may seem experience outbreaks when they eat certain foods, there is no universal laws that apply to everyone. Eating pizza, chocolate, nuts, and greasy foods will not increase your acne.

Acne Myth #2: Acne is related to dirt or having dirty skin

Although having clean skin has other benefits, dirt does not cause acne. Acne is formed under the surface of the skin and is due to build-ups of sebum and dead skin cells. It’s not dirt that clogs your follicles.

Acne Myth #3: Washing your face all the time will clear up acne

This kind of relates to myth #3. Having clean skin is not the answer to preventing acne. Overdoing it as far as washing your face can actually make matters worse. Stripping your skin of oil could lead to future breakouts.

Acne Myth #4: Only teenagers get acne

It is true that 9 out of 10 teenagers experience acne, but it is also true that about 1 in 4 adults get it also. Acne seems to be connected with hormones which would explain why teenagers have such a high incidence of acne, but adults are also going through hormonal changes at various times in their lives.

Acne Myth #5: Stress causes acne

Scientific evidence shows that stress is not that large of a factor in acne. It was believed for many years that stress caused bouts of acne but it simply isn’t so.

Acne Myth # 6: Acne can be cured

Many people view acne as a disease that can be permanently cured. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Acne can be controlled and prevented through proper skin care, but it cannot be cured.

Acne Skin Care 8 Simple Tips To Follow

Commonly affecting the skin condition of people between ages 12 to 24 is a disease called acne. The cause of acne is hard to determine. However, over secretion of the sebaceous glands is pointed as the cause to trigger most acne outbreaks.

Pilosebaceous units are the combination of the hair follicles and oil glands in the skin. Except for the surface of the palms and the soles of the feet, pilosabaceous units are found on the skin tissue throughout the body . They are responsible in secreting the oily substance called sebum. However, due to many factors (e.g. hormonal imbalances, stress and the skin’s natural condition) the oil glands may be induced to produce more sebum than normal. When this happens, the excess oil plugs the skin pores. This process brings about bacterial infection and stimulate the reaction of the immune system. In the end, acne inflammation results.

Acne can strike at any skin type. An oily skin type is most subseptible to acne. Dry skin on the other hand, may not be as susceptible but serious outbreaks may occur during winter. Normal skin is equally susceptible to acne but the level of severity may not be as high.

Presently, acne is not yet totally curable but can be remedied with several acne skin care methods. Many seek the help of topical medications, which are applied on the surface of the skin. However, employing the use of acne skin care products like “pore strip pads” may remove whiteheads and blackheads but they would not have any effect on the excess sebum produced.

Nevertheless, for remedy and prevention, it is best to employ the following 8 simple tips:



1. A healthy, well-balanced diet must be observed. Therefore, your food intake must incorporate all the essential nutrients the body needs for efficient functioning.

2. Drink plenty of fluids like water, juices. Minimize the intake of carbonated drinks.

3. No make up is recommended.

4. Wash your face with mild soap and water. The logic is to not remove the dirt (as the majority of acne-inflicted person perceive) but to remove the plugs on the skin pores, which may be a combination of dead skin cells, bacteria and hardened sebum. Although dirt is not truly the cause of acne, it may contribute to further infection through its interaction with skin debris and particles and extra oil in the skin.

5. Use topical cleansing pads that may contain one or the combination of the following: salicylic acid, sulfur and benzoyl peroxide to remove excess oil. Another way to minimize the presence of extra oil in the skin is to wash the face with the hottest water you can withstand.

6. Minimize the use of harsh cleansers and use acne skin care items that exfoliate mildly. Do not scrub vigorously to the affected areas.

7. If your hands are dirty, refrain from touching your face.

8. If you have long hair, tie up your hair so that it is kept away from the face. This is especially so if the weather is hot and you have been perspiring.

Preventative acne skin care steps are just as important as the treatment of acne itself. With prevention, at least, you know how to ensure that your acne problem does not escalate and spread to a bigger infected area.

Acne Medicine Treatment Found In Natural Acne Products

Treatment may be found in natural acne products or in acne medicine. – The side effects that usually are caused by acne medicines must be taken into account when you decide going under a treatment. The acne medicine isotretinoin is used in the treatment of serious cases of the skin disease acne. Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a medicine that has revolutionized the treatment of acne. There is no single medicine or acne treatment. acne, ayurvedic acne treatment, acne medicine, acne adult, acne product, acne medication, best acne treatment Print Now! As this is a natural acne treatment guide, the normal laxatives in drugstores and prescription medicines will not be considered at all. The most popular acne medicine treatments include: Benzoyl Peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is an over-the-counter acne treatment that kills the bacteria that causes acne. treatment with medicine: treatment of acne using drugs.

This medicine is a vitamin A derivative used to treat acne. -The best acne medicines are those ones that treat acne from inside out. Benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur are the most common topical OTC medicines used to treat acne. Avoid a Sunburn or Suntan Many of the medicines used to treat acne can make a person more prone to sunburn. Prescription Topical Medicines Several types of prescription topical medicines are used to treat acne, including antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, adapalene, and azelaic acid. Covered by most healthcare plans, this oil-free gel gently delivers the medicine to treat acne and prevent new pimples from forming. Avoid a Sunburn or Suntan Many of the medicines used to treat acne can make you more prone to sunburn. Systemic therapies, medicines that work internally, are needed to treat severe acne and may be used for moderate cases. Retinoic acid Also known as Retin-A, this is another topical medicine used by doctors to treat acne. There are many types of medicines used to treat acne.

Topical medicine is applied directly to the acne lesions or to the entire area of affected skin. In some patients, OTC acne medicines may cause side effects such as skin irritation, burning, or redness. I applied many acne medicines topical skin care cream and lotions which would dry them, but only temporarily. It is important that you continue to take your anti-acne medicine as recommended so that your skin remains acne-free after the lesions finally fade. “Cleanse you skin thoroughly every time before applying any over-the-counter acne medicine,” says Dr. When you start using a new acne medicine, you may have mild redness and swelling of your skin. Some acne medicines help prevent clogged pores by peeling off old layers of your skin.

Acne S Top 10 Faq S

1.) Can you get (catch) acne from other people?

Answer: While certain types of acne do contain a bacterium, it is located in the hair follicles under your skin and can not be transmitted through contact. So no, touching or kissing someone with acne will not cause you to develop acne.

2.) If both my parents had acne does that mean I will develop acne?

Answer: Studies show that heredity does play an important role in determining who develops acne. So children of parents who had or have acne are at a grater risk then others. It should be noted that as with any disease just because you have a family history, does not guarantee you will get it; only that you have a much great chance then someone with no family history.

3.) Does eating or drinking certain foods cause acne?

Answer: Over the years studies have suggested everything from chocolate, candy, fried foods, sugar, drinking water, orange juice to milk can cause you to develop acne or make existing acne worse. However their is no scientific evidence to support any such results. There are so many factors effecting acne development that it is very difficult to isolate any one cause. So whether or not to avoid certain foods or drinks is really just an individual preference. If you find your skin reacts negatively to certain foods, then just don’t eat or drink it.

4.) Does dirt on my skin cause acne?

Answer: Having proper hygiene will help with healthy skin. However dirty skin will not cause acne, but anybody with acne should be extra vigilant in having a good cleansing routine. Over washing can irritate your skin and make it more vulnerable to infection. Washing with a gentle cleanser will help reduce skin cell build up and keep your skin looking at its best. So find a balance and try not to over wash.

5.) Does stress cause acne?

Answer: Stress has been shown to make acne worse, not directly cause it. So if you suffer from acne you should be aware of how you react under stress and develop ways to help manage and keep it under control. This will not only help with controlling your acne but also benefit your over all health.

6.) Can you develop acne once you are out of your teens?

Answer: The simple answer is yes. In fact many people who never experienced acne as a teen can develop it in their 30, 40, and 50′s.

7.) Does make up or sunscreen make acne worse?

Answer: Certain products that are overly greasy and thick can plug the skins follicles leading to the development of acne. Not all products affect everyone the same way, so while you many develop acne using one product someone else may not. If you are prone to acne you will need to be extra careful with what you put on your skin. Try to always use oil free products and also test a small amount on a patch of skin for a few days before using it all over.

8.) Will exercising affect my acne?

Answer: While it is still unclear why this happens, vigorous exercising that causes your body to heat up and sweat does seem to cause acne to get worse for certain people. One theory is that exercise increases the production of sebum, the oil that when to much is produced can lead to acne.

9.) Can a facial help with acne?

Answer: There is no easy way to answer this question. The term facial is used to describe everything from an over the counter product you buy from a drug store and do it yourself to something done at an expensive spa for hundreds of dollars. The bottom line is anything that might irritate your skin can make your acne worse.

10.) Why does my acne stop responding to my current treatment?

Answer: Acne medication, like all medications can become less effective over time as your body builds a resistance to them. It might be necessary to use acne treatment regiments on a rotational basis for optimum effectiveness.

Monday, 21 April 2014

Natural Home Treatment For Cellulite

CELLULITE

“Cellulite” is a skin condition that gives the appearance of small bumps and ripples under the skin. The bumps are caused by the underlying fat cells growing too large and stretching the natural fiber compartments that hold the skin to the underlying layers of tissues.

“Cellulite” is ordinary fat, but ordinary fat that affects the appearance of the skin. Strands of fibrous collagen tissue connect the skin to the subcutaneous layers and also separate compartments that contain fat cells. When fat cells increase in size, these compartments bulge and produce a rippled appearance of the skin.

Women tend to have cellulite more often than men because they have a vertical pattern of collagen in the underlying layer that holds the fat cells, and when the fat cells become very large, they bulge out of the chambers and appear as cellulite.

In men, the pattern of collagen is tighter, in a diagonal pattern, and they have thicker skin, so there is less bulging of the individual fat cells. Another factor in cellulite is high levels of estrogen, since this hormone has a direct effect on the holding capacity of fat cells through the increase of alpha-adrenoreceptors, the chemical doorways that tell your fat cells to hold on to their contents. Poor diet, bad circulation, and poor lymphatic circulation can all contribute to the appearance of cellulite.

TREATING SKIN WITH CELLULITE

There are several extra steps you can take for the treatment of cellulite. Consider your skin care regimen, and fine-tune it to meet the needs of skin that has a tendency to swell with fluids, store fat and have poor circulation.

Nutrition: Although cellulite is a skin condition, it’s closely tied to the storage of excess fat. If you are significantly overweight, you should certainly alter your diet. The dietary enzyme bromelain can improve overall circulation to your skin and adipose tissues by removing the buildup of fibrin on the walls of blood vessels. Treating cellulite requires a two-pronged approach – one being the shrinking of the fat cells themselves, the second being the regeneration of collagen and strengthening of the skin outside of the swollen fat cells.

Cleansing: When cleaning your skin, use your wash cloth or loufah to massage the area where cellulite occurs. At first, use a circular motion and then a brushing motion upwards towards the bowels. This will improve circulation and edema, and help remove toxins and metabolic wastes out of the tissues and interstitial spaces around the collagen and fat cells.

Other Treatments:

- Dry Skin Brushing: Learn to dry brush your skin at least twice every day – upon rising and before going to bed. Skin brushing provides many benefits in the treatment of cellulite. First of all, it’s “exercise” for you skin, and strengthens the underlying dermis and pattern of collagen in the subcutaneous layer. It stimulates the growth and repair of the tissues by increasing blood flow to the area. It also helps remove toxins and metabolic wastes out of the interstitial fluids surrounding the tissues for disposal. Dry brushing is good for you skin all over, but if you are suffering from spider or varicose veins, brushing these areas vigorously several times every day, first in a circular motion and then upwards towards the colon, can improve the appearance of cellulite.

- Hormones: Cellulite is often associated with the use of HRT and birth control pills. High levels of estrogen from these medications can cause an increase in the fatty tissues ability to store fats and cause them to bulge, pushing out the skin and causing cellulite. If you are using birth control pills for contraception, you may want to ask your doctor for a lower-estrogen dose formula or a non-hormonal form, such as an IUD. If you are on HRT, you may want to consider switching to a lower dose, adding progesterone cream, or using a weaker formula, such as an estrone cream.

- Habits: Get out of the habit of crossing your legs, knees and ankles. This reduces circulation and increases swelling. Try to keep moving regularly, neither sitting nor standing for long periods.

- Exercise: Regular exercise is necessary for the improvement of cellulite. Not only does it help reduce the appearance of cellulite by burning the fatty acids that are causing the cellulite. It also improves circulation and helps to remove toxin-filled wastes away from the skin. Take up a walking program, or sneaking in a set of exercises in the restroom during breaks.

- Body Wraps: Body wraps, both professional and homemade can improve the appearance of cellulite. Body wraps use a combination of minerals and herbs that stimulate the fat cells to release their contents, they absorb toxins from the skin and reduce swelling. Generally you will find stimulant herbs like kelp or algae that stimulate the fat burning process in the cells. You will find cosmetic clays that will remove toxins and wastes from the pores, and horsetail and horse chestnut that reduce edema (swelling) and provide minerals for strengthening the skin. These formulas are applied to the skin with the use of compression wraps. For recipes for doing home wraps, go to the Botanical Beauty Lab website.

- Massage: Massage, particularly the kind that improves lymph flow, is very good for reducing the appearance of cellulite. It improves the removal of metabolic wastes and toxins from the interstitial tissues around the adipose tissues, and gives the skin a smoother appearance. There are many professionals offering massage for cellulite, including lymphatic massage and endermology, but if that is out of your budget, you may want to try a home massage device. Many are available, from a simple round-prong hand tool to a powered massager that provides heat, massage and suction similar to the professional endermology machines.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR CELLULITE REDUCTION

Alfalfa: Alfalfa is a natural diuretic that helps balance the body’s interstitial fluids and reduces edema and swelling. It’s also a phytoprogesterone, which helps balance the excess estrogen that can exacerbate cellulite.

Borage Oil: Borage oil contains high amounts gamma linoleic acid, which is an important fatty acid to the strengthening of cell walls.

Bromelain: Bromelain is a naturally occurring enzyme in natural foods that aid in the digestion of proteins. The consumption of bromelain aids in the removal of fibrin buildup in fine blood vessels. This improves and increases circulation to the skin, and aids in repair and rejuvenation.

Horsetail: Horse Chestnut herb contains high levels of the mineral silica, which is used in the repair and maintenance of skin cells.

Cider Vinegar contains an array of important enzymes and aids in balancing body pH. It’s also a good source of potassium, which is necessary for fluid balance in the body.

Coconut Oil contains medium chain triglycerides which are easily absorbed and used by the body for fuel. It has the capability of stimulating the thyroid gland, which increases body temperature and metabolism and is known for improving the burning of excess fat.

Ginkgo Biloba is a natural blood thinner that increases the microcirculation to skin and fat cells.

Gotu Kolu is a natural source of caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the beta-adrenoreceptors on the surface of the fat cells to release their stores of fatty acids, aiding in the burning of excess fat.

Green Tea: Green tea is a mild stimulate that contains caffeine as well as powerful antioxidants that aid in the proper replication and repair of skin cells.

MSM: Is an important mineral that is necessary for skin cell repair.

EXTERNAL TREATMENTS FOR CELLULITE

Aloe Vera contains alatoin, which sooths and heals skin. It has been shown clinically to increase microcirculation of the skin and to speed healing of skin tissues.

Betonite Clay is a natural mineral clay that is known for its ability to absorb impurities and toxins from the skin through the pores.

Horsetail, ginkgo biloba, kelp and green tea also work externally and can be added to lotions or creams for massage into problem areas.

Many experts have recommended using coffee grounds as a scrub for cellulite prone areas. The grounds work as an exfoliant, as the caffeine absorbs into the skin and stimulate the beta adrenoreceptors in the fat cells to release their contents.

Dead Sea Salts and Kelp or bladderwrack contain powerful minerals that aid in the repair of skin cells as well as the mineral iodine which can aid in the metabolism of the underlying fat cells.

There are also many commercial formulas and methods for the reduction of cellulite.

Most contain caffeine or a similar chemical called theophylline or aminophylline.

Many also contain kelp, bladderwrack and other herbs mentioned herein.

Just remember that cellulite reduction is a two step process. The cause of cellulite is over-sized fat cells that have stretched out the collagen structure underlying the skin. The first step is to reduce bodyfat, and many herbs and nutrients both external and external can accelerate the process. The second step is to increase the strength of the skin and the collagen webs under the subcutaneous tissues. Skin and collagen require vitamins, minerals and fatty acids to rebuild themselves properly. Excess fluids can exacerbate the problem, so proper fluid intake and circulation is important. Drink plenty of fluids, and stay active to increase the circulation of the lymph system. With a little diligent effort the appearance of cellulite can be reduced.

The Ultimate Facial Sauna

One of the great benefits of sauna and steam baths are the toning effects on the skin. They leave the skin soft, supple and glowing – in short, beautiful. Regular users of sauna and steam baths have an appealing healthy glow about them that adds to their attractiveness.

The reason that sauna and steam are so good for the skin is the deep cleaning action caused by heavy perspiration. The pores open wide and all the accumulated dirt can be easily washed out.

The best benefits for skin toning come from full body sauna, but for those looking for a quick fix-up to their complexion can get similar results from facial sauna systems. These ‘mini-saunas’ are designed to apply steam to the face for the same deep cleaning action as a full sauna or steam bath.

How They Work

A facial sauna has an electric heating element on the bottom of the unit. It heats the water (which is held in a small reservoir) to the boiling point, causing the steam to rise. The small size of the reservoir ensures that steam is quickly produced.

An ergonomically designed mask is placed over the reservoir to capture and funnel the steam to your face. You can control the amount of steam that your face is exposed to by the distance of the mask to your face.

Bringing your face into direct contact with the mask gives the maximum deep cleaning action, but this position should only be used for a few moments at a time. After about 10 seconds, raise your head to allow cooler air to be mixed with steam. Repeat this cycle as many times as needed.

Facial saunas are not only for deep cleansing the skin; they are also useful for unclogging stuffed sinuses. Anyone with a simple cold or a more serious condition like bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma and hay fever can use the facial sauna as an inhaler or vaporizer.

Some facial saunas have a separate inhaler attachment. Instead of fitting over the entire face, the inhaler attachment fits over the nose and mouth. Simply breathe in the steam to provide almost instant relief from sinus pain.

Operating Tips

Most facial saunas have a very small reservoir so that the water can heat up fast. The downside of this is that the water evaporates quickly, so if you wish to use the sauna for an extended session, you should keep a tall glass of water by your side. This way, you can quickly refill the reservoir when it goes dry.

The small reservoir, unfortunately, also means that the facial sauna cannot be used as an overnight vaporizer. If your sinuses are keeping you awake at night, you would be better off with a traditional vaporizer that provides steam for several hours.

Steam is great for deep cleaning the skin, but for an additional beauty treatment you can add special cleaners such as tea tree oil to the water. Just a few drops of this oil will give your skin an even brighter glow and leave it feeling fresh and supple.

Facial saunas are relatively inexpensive — usually less than $60. For this price, almost everybody can enjoy the deep cleaning action and the special ‘glowing’ skin that marks regular sauna users apart from the crowd.

Tips For A Healthy Clear Complexion

For many women, visiting the skin care aisle at the drugstore can be as intimidating as ordering from all the complicated hot beverages on offer at the trendy local coffee shop. From blemish control to exfoliating to deep cleansing, products today offer an often dizzying range of ingredients and benefits claims. However, finding a targeted skin care solution that’s right for you doesn’t have to be difficult-in fact, with the right guidance, it can be a whole lot simpler than ordering a venti, chai, decaf, vanilla skim latte with extra foam.

Celebrity makeup artist Tasha Reiko Brown shares knowledge on how to best tackle common skin care concerns, with some helpful tips on choosing the right products:

Problem: Do I need to exfoliate? It seems harsh.

Solution: One of the best ways to cleanse is by exfoliating. It stimulates the skin as you cleanse, giving your face a nice and radiant glow. Try cream-based cleansers with skin-smoothing microbeads that gently exfoliate to help reveal fresh, polished skin. For best results, make little circles with fingertips in a clockwise motion. Pay extra attention to the thicker, oily areas of your face to achieve an all-over glow.

Problem: I don’t have much time to tend for my skin.

Solution: For the woman who is looking for an effective and efficient skin care solution, deep cleansing can be as basic and satisfying as pouring a simple cup of joe. Try the Noxzema Original Cleansing Cream. A tried-and-true classic, it dissolves oil while conditioning skin, without overdrying, leaving skin feeling clean, soft and smooth in one easy step. Best of all, you can feel its signature eucalyptus-infused formula working as it deep cleans. And this invigorating beauty staple comes in Original and Plus Moisturizers.

Problem: I can never seem to beat blemishes.

Solution: The key to not only beating but also preventing blemishes is to use products that deep clean but are also gentle enough to use on a daily basis. Always look for products that contain salicylic acid, which is a proven ingredient to fight acne blemishes and breakouts. Salicylic acid can be found in toners, cleansers and cleansing pads, so you can pick and choose the best combination for your lifestyle.

Problem: Traveling interrupts my beauty regimen.

Solution: No matter how busy you are, never skimp out on facial cleansing in your daily beauty routine. Dirty skin looks dull and sallow, and it’s more prone to breakouts. Try products that are de- signed for the girl on the go, such as premoistened cleansing cloths that will quickly remove dirt, oil and makeup for an efficient deep clean.

Using these simple tips to demystify your most common skin care problems, your perfect skin solution should become clear.

Sensible Beauty Tips For Enhancing Your Appearance

There are many simple beauty tips that don’t have to take up a lot of time. These simple tips can be accomplished in a matter of minutes and can have a noticeable improvement on your appearance. These beauty tips include simple suggestions such as getting enough sleep each night, drinking plenty of water each day and completely removing your makeup each night.

Getting adequate sleep is one of many simple beauty tips that simply cannot be overlooked. Consistently getting inadequate sleep can have a negative effect on your appearance. Under eye circles is just one of the many unsightly side effects of not getting enough sleep.

Drinking enough water each day to maintain hydration is another of the very important beauty tips. While studies have shown that drinking water does not affect the moisture levels in the skin, dehydration, however, can affect the appearance of the skin in an undesirable way. To avoid an unhealthy pallor to the skin and eyes that appear dull and sunken it is wise to maintain sufficient hydration levels each day.

Another one of the very simple beauty tips available is to completely remove your makeup each night. This is important because failure to do so could begin to have effects on the skin. The clogged pores that result from not removing your makeup each night can result in unattractive skin problems such as acne or blackheads.

Youthful And Vibrant Skin

Billions are spent each year on cosmetic products that promise to delete wrinkles, lighten age spots, and eliminate itching, flaking, or redness. But the simplest and cheapest way to keep your skin healthy and youthful looking is to stay out of the sun.

Sunlight is a major cause of wrinkles, dryness, and age spots. Your skin does change with age. For instance, you sweat less which leads to increased dryness. Aging skin becomes thinner and loses fat, so it looks less plump and smooth. Underlying structures, veins and bones in particular, become more prominent. Your skin can also take longer to recover when injured.

These changes can be drastically delayed by staying out of the sun. Although nothing can totally undo sun damage, the skin sometimes can restore itself. So, it’s never too late to protect yourself from the harmful results of the sun.

5 Ways to Slow the Aging Process:

1. Wear protective clothing. A hat with a wide brim shades your neck, ears, eyes, and head. Look for sunglasses with a label saying the glasses block 99 to 100 percent of the sun’s rays. Wear loose, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants or long skirts when in the sun.

2. Check your skin often. Look for changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of birthmarks, moles, and spots. If you find any changes that worry you, see a doctor. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that older, fair-skinned people have a yearly skin check by a doctor as part of a regular physical exam.

3. Avoid artificial tanning. Don’t use sunlamps and tanning beds, as well as tanning pills and tanning makeup. Tanning pills have a color additive that turns your skin orange after you take them. The FDA has approved this color additive for coloring foods but not for tanning the skin. The large amount of color additive in tanning pills may be harmful. Tanning make-up products are not suntan lotions and will not protect your skin from the sun.



4. Use sunscreen. Sunscreens are rated in strength according to a sun protection factor (SPF), which ranges from 2 to 30 or higher. A higher number means longer protection. Buy products with an SPF number of 15 or higher. Also look for products whose label says: broad spectrum (meaning they protect against both types of harmful sun rays(UVA and UVB) and water resistant (meaning they stay on your skin longer, even if you get wet or sweat a lot). Remember to reapply the lotion as needed.

5. Stay out of the sun. Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is when the sun?s UV rays are strongest. Don?t be fooled by cloudy skies. Harmful rays pass through clouds. UV radiation also can pass through water, so don’t assume you?re safe if you?re in the water and feeling cool.

Laser Hair Removal The Basics

Laser hair removal is getting more popular everyday. Most of us have our own conceptions about this treatment. it is important to know the science and the art of laser hair removal before you decide to get treated with lasers for hair removal.

What is laser- laser is the concentrated beam of light that is made of a single wavelength. This beam does not scatter light around but focuses it on one point. Therefore the energy emission is very high. In hair removal this laser energy is used to heat and burn the hair follicles. The full name of laser is Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

How laser removes hair- when laser is focused on skin, it get attracted to the pigment of the hair follicle. The laser heats the hair follicles and burns it at the root. The darker the color of the hair, better the results. Similarly the skin should be light colored otherwise the skin also attracts laser and gets blistered. With latest developments this possibility is getting eliminated, but you must talk to your physician about your hair and skin color and the results expected.

Please find out more about the number of treatments you may need, the expectation of results, the side effects and the proficiency of the technician before you proceed for treatment.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.

Swallow To Glow A Holistic Approach To Skin Health


Swallow To Glow A Holistic Approach To Skin Health


The skin is the largest organ in the body. It defends against disease and infection, regulates temperature and even aids in vitamin production. Keeping skin healthy is crucial for beauty and general health, even if most of us are interested in knowing how to keep skin looking healthy, rather than really keeping it healthy.

The best way to keep skin looking healthy – young, fair, radiant, supple, soft and wrinkle free – is to keep out of the sun.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun bring about a healthy-looking tan, but do much damage to the skin in terms of pigmentation, sunburn and loss of elasticity. These can lead to premature aging in the form of wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, dark skin, uneven skin tone, loss of translucency, enlarged pores and dryness. Even the best of genetics, topical skin lightening treatments and oral skin supplements would be of little use if one tans mercilessly and regularly.

Keeping out of the sun helps, but if you cannot avoid it, you will have to ensure that you use a sunscreen. This is especially crucial if sun exposure is for an extended period of time.

Assuming that one is already sensible about sun exposure, how can we then further improve our skin condition? We know that certain oral supplements are effective for good skin health, but which are these supplements and how effective are they?

Supplement From Within

The first group would be vitamins and minerals, essential for proper functioning of every organ.

The vitamins and minerals that can affect skin health include the B-complex, especially B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin) and B12 (cyancobalamine). Overt deficiencies of vitamins B1 and B2 are known to cause special forms of dermatitis (a kind of skin inflammation). B12 deficiency is particularly detrimental to neurons and rapidly dividing cells, including skin cells.

Besides the B vitamins, deficiency of vitamin C, iron and copper also affect skin health. All three are important for the synthesis of collagen, a key structural protein in the skin, which fills the skin and gives it tone.

Vitamin A is critical for the normal life cycle of skin cells. Vitamin A deficiency causes skin to become dry, fragile and prone to wrinkles. On the other hand, excessive Vitamin A intake may cause serious toxicity and should be avoided.

Vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene have been touted as anti-oxidants that reduce free radicals. (Free radicals result in skin degeneration and aging.) However, while free radicals and the role of anti-oxidants are beyond doubt, clinical results have not conclusively proved if supplementary vitamins and other micronutrients improve the skin quality and defy the aging process.

Excessive doses can be just as harmful as deficiencies, so it is best to abide by the recommended daily allowance (RDA).

Topical Help

Oral supplements should go hand-in-hand with topical applications – sunscreen of at least SPF 30, creams (preferably with skin whitening agents) and moisturizer (preferably with skin lightening agents). Compared with topical applications, the effects of oral supplements are slower and more subtle. Consumers have to be realistic about their expectations because results certainly will not be seen in 7 days or 2 weeks.

We recommend a holistic approach to skin health, comprising:

* A healthy balanced diet comprising all food groups as well as vitamins, minerals and micronutrients.

* Keep a happy positive mood. It is well documented that some skin conditions – such as acne and eczema – are more prevalent among the stressed.

* If you smoke, quit smoking. Smoke causes free radicals, damages the microcirculation of skin and also causes staining of teeth and other discoloration.

* Minimize sun exposure and use a good sunscreen on a daily basis.


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