TRANSMEGA HEALTH: skin

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Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment: What is it and Does it Work?

Doc Health Plan -Laser skin treatment technology. Seems a little high-tech and baffling, doesn't it?

Yet, even though it's hard to imagine how a laser can help improve skin quality, this treatment has been growing in popularity for years. (Not least because it involves no botox needles, knives or plastic surgery.)

So, what exactly is it and how does it work?

Resurfacing your skin

As we age, our skin changes. Elastin and collagen fibres within the skin lose their “snap” - leading to the onset of wrinkles. Cells regenerate slower and some areas develop darker pigmentation.

Resurfacing literally means altering (or removing) the surface of the skin to reveal a fresher layer below.

How does it work?

Laser technology allows you to target very specific parts of the face and neck. The laser delivers highly concentrated light energy to pinpointed parts of the skin. This light can eradicate dead or ageing cells, as well as stimulate other cells to heal and repair.

Are all laser treatments the same?

There are many different types of laser skin treatment – but really they all come under one of two areas: ablative or non-ablative.

Ablative treatments (such as the popular ProFractional procedure) remove a layer of skin, whereas non-ablative treatments tend to stimulate collagen cells below the epidermis and leave the outer layer intact. Skin resurfacing usually refers to ablative treatments.

One of the most effective procedures is the Sciton Profile Contour system. Combining two lasers, this approach both removes the dull surface layer and stimulates the cells beneath.

What are the down sides of laser treatment?

As with any skin treatment, side-effects are somewhat dependent on your skin's sensitivity – as well as the type of procedure you opt for.

In most cases you will experience some redness for at least a few days after. For more extensive treatments, or if you have more sensitive skin, this may last a week or more. If you experience any discomfort in this time, then over-the-counter painkillers are usually enough to reduce this.

It's also important to inform your doctor if you are taking any other skin medications (for example, Accutane acne treatment) or have recently undergone radiation.

Avoid direct sunlight soon after treatment and use high factor sunblock when going outdoors for several weeks after. Oh, and try not to wear make-up until the redness subsides!

What about results?

Once healed, the positive effects of laser treatment can last for several months. You may notice:

• Tighter skin

• Less wrinkles

• Smoother skin

• Less discolouration

• Reduced light scarring

Does it matter where you go for treatment?

Laser skin treatment is safe and effective – provided you use experienced, qualified medical professionals.

Most treatments will not be available for free on the NHS. Instead, look for practices that are registered with the Care Quality Commission. This means that they meet the high standards set for offering medical treatment in the UK.

Well-established, friendly clinics should make the entire process as swift and comfortable as possible. They'll also discuss all of your options and fully assess your skin type and expectations. That way you can be sure of getting the best possible results from your laser treatment.

4 Skin Care Sins That You Should Avoid When You Can!

Doc Health Plan -The condition of your skin today is a mere reflection of how you treated it yesterday! Skincare plays an integral role in defining the health of our skin. In fact, women who suffer from premature aging are just paying a price for their skin care negligence in the past.

Therefore, it is always better to prevent skin concerns rather than trying to treat them when they appear. Here are some serious skin care sins that you should better start avoiding as early as you can:

No Consideration for Skin Type

Often, women start using general skin care products without any heed for their skin type. In fact, some of them have no idea about their skin type and buy the most popular products of the season to include in their skin care regimen. As a result, not only is there no visible result, there are also chances that they develop skin issues like acne because of the incompatibility of the skin and the products.

So, before you start using any skin care product, make sure you determine your particular skin type. This will help you to understand the key requirements of your skin and thus, use products that cater to them effectively.

Using the Wrong Cleanser

The worst sin anyone can commit is using a regular soap bar in place of a cleanser. It is important to know that bath soaps contain extremely harsh ingredients that tend to strip off the natural moisture oils from the tender skin of your face and make it dry and irritated.

Therefore, use a cleanser that suits your skin types and contains ingredients that help relieve your skin concerns. Women with oily skin should use rich foaming cleansers Obagi Nu-Derm Foaming Gel while those with dry skin should use creamier cleansers like Skin Care Heaven Purifying Gentle Cleanser.

Not Removing Make-Up

Even though everyone knows it, this one is one of the oft-repeated skin care sins. A tiring evening is a perfect excuse to hit the sack without removing make-up from your face. However, cosmetic ingredients on your skin can seep into your skin pores and cause intrinsic damage leading to acne and blemishes.

So, make sure you use a cleanser or a make-up remover to remove all traces of make-up from your face every night before you go to sleep. Try Obagi C-Cleansing Gel. It gently conditions the skin with Vitamin C and removes all signs of make-up, oil residues and accumulated impurities leaving your skin fresh and clean.

Under Moisturizing your Skin

One of the common misconceptions among women is that oily skin doesn't require moisturization. This is not true! Oily skin is a result of excessive sebum production and the skin still requires moisture. In the absence of moisture, the skin produces excessive sebum to compensate the lack of moisture thus making the skin even oilier. Therefore, women with oily skin should use a mild moisturizer to hydrate their skin subtly without adding to the oiliness. Try the Kinerase Clear Skin Moisture Light. It is a oil free moisturizer for blemish-prone skin. This product helps to reduce and control sebum in the skin. Kinerase Clear Skin Moisture Light re-hydrates while soothing and calming the skin significantly and leaves skin with a matte finish.

Importance of Hand Sanitizer in our Everyday Life

Doc Health Plan - One of the greatest advances in the history of Medicine was the discovery of microorganisms and their connection to disease. Less than 150 years ago, surgeons were performing surgery without even washing their hands. The death rate from infection was very high. Major communicable diseases were spread from person to person without any check at all. Once the connection between these little unseen killers and the havoc they create in the human body was realized, we entered a whole new era of health and longer life.

Today, a lot of viruses were being reported to have infected humans. One is SARS, and now, the H1N1 Swine flu virus that is currently being considered as pandemic. The threat of a pandemic is sweeping the world, through a new strain of swine flu. Many deaths have been recorded in Mexico. Several other countries also have suspect cases reported, from as far apart as France, Hong Kong, Canada, Israel and New Zealand.

Swine influenza (also called swine flu, hog flu, and pig flu) is an infection by any one of several types of swine influenza virus. Swine influenza virus (SIV) is any strain of the influenza family of viruses that is endemic in pigs. As of 2009, the known SIV strains include influenza C and the subtypes of influenza A known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3.

Swine influenza virus is common throughout pig populations worldwide. Transmission of the virus from pigs to humans is not common and does not always lead to human influenza, often resulting only in the production of antibodies in the blood. If transmission does cause human influenza, it is called zoonotic swine flu. People with regular exposure to pigs are at increased risk of swine flu infection. The meat of an infected animal poses no risk of infection when properly cooked.

Here are simple precautions you need to use to provide self-protection against the threatened pandemic:

Make sure you cover your nose and mouth if you sneeze or cough. Ensure you get rid of the tissue in the rubbish can after you use it. Keep a mask handy in case anyone sneezes or coughs around you.

Just one sneeze thrusts 100,000 droplets into the air at around 90 mph, landing on everything around you. British researchers have found that in a subway train during rush hour, as many as 10% of all commuters can come in contact with the spray and residue from just one sneeze. 150 commuters may become ill from one uncovered sneeze, or cough. The rush of air from a cough travels at speeds of nearly 600 mph.

Always wash your hands frequently, for up to 20 seconds, with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Always wash your hands thoroughly prior to eating and whenever possible do not eat with your hands.

It is estimated over 80% of all infections are spread by hands. If you are not able to wash your hands, resort to using hand-sanitizers with 60% alcohol content. These are available in handy pocket size containers.

Attempt to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and definitely avoid kissing on the cheeks.

Germs are passed more quickly that way than any other method of transmission.

Try to stay away from sick people. Isolation and keeping your distance are your most efficient protective measures.

If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with other people, to keep them from becoming infected.

Keep aware and recognize any abnormal symptoms. If you are in doubt, go and seek professional advice.

Make sure you eat well, be careful of your sleep habits and take regular exercise. Increase your daily dose of vitamin C and practice good hygiene.

It has long been recommended that hands be washed with soap and hot water in a number of situations. Surgeons scrub their hands with antibacterial soap and hot water for a long time before donning gloves. This shows the importance of hand cleaning since unless the gloves are punctured, the hands are protected. Laws require food handlers and medical personnel to wash their hands with soap and hot water before beginning work and after visiting the bathroom.

Hand sanitizers are products that are intended for use when hand washing is impossible or impractical. Most hand sanitizers are made from an alcohol based gel that can be applied directly to the hand and rubbed in and dried without the use of water. Do hand sanitizers prevent disease and illness? Since a substance containing at least 65% alcohol by volume, and most hand sanitizers do, kills almost 99% percent of all bacterial and virus that it comes into contact with, the answer would have to be a resounding yes.

Best Treatments for Scalp Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a result of excessive skin cell production on the scalp. This overproduction then develop into silvery scales and reddish wounds that are itchy, painful and horrible to look at. Mild conditions show a little scaling of the skin on the head, but severe ones have thick and hard plaques covering the entire scalp. It may be very difficult to hide because it can also show up beyond the hair line and onto the forehead, and at the back of the neck and ears. It is commonly mistaken as seborrheic dermatitis but one can tell them apart since scalp psoriasis is usually silver in color and has a powdery texture while the former is yellowish in color and greasy to the feel.
From the description above, one can imagine how troublesome this skin disease can be that immediate relief and cure is needed. Because once it is left untreated, it can worsen quickly and may create complications and result to other infections, making it a bit harder to treat. A special kind of shampoo and other suitable procedures are needed to successfully manage psoriasis of the scalp.
1. Medicated Shampoo
The most common medication recommended for this scalp condition is specially-formulated psoriasis shampoo. This is a type of medicated shampoo that has ingredients that can stop scaling, give relief to severe itching and heal lesions. Coal tar and salicylic acid are common ingredients found in OTC drugstore brands.
Some of the most effective shampoos for psoriasis that you can see in any local drugstore are Neutrogena T Gel Shampoo Extra Strength and Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo with Conditioner. The product from Neutrogena is especially formulated to fight the symptoms of psoriasis such as scaling, itching and crusting.

Doctors prescribe this brand a lot and it has received good comments from users because of its efficiency. Some patients who have used it said that they saw improvements just after 7 days. This is quite fast since other shampoo brands generally take at least a month to take effect. One can also use the Neutrogena T Gel Shampoo as a severe dandruff treatment.
The Dermarest shampoo however is suitable for someone who has sensitive skin because it is fragrance-free and has a non-greasy formula. It gives quick and long-lasting relief from scalp itch, scaling, flaking, redness and irritation. Another plus is the added conditioners which do not leave the hair damaged and dry.
Ketoconazole is another element found in most prescription shampoos but there are brands that offer non-prescription ones with lower amounts. Ketoconazole shampoo is often recommended for patients who did not get results from using over-the-counter psoriasis shampoo.
2. Coal Tar Shampoo
Probably the most controversial one because of alleged health risks, psoriasis shampoo made of coal tar is an effective scalp treatment because of its ability to thin out the skin thus decreasing the amount of skin cells. It also stops bacterial outbreak which is one of the goals in curing psoriasis and preventing it from getting worse. The substance coal tar has been linked with cancer but no scientific proof has been recognized yet. It is not recommended for use of pregnant women and people who are highly sensitive to UV rays.
3. Tea Tree Oil
This essential oil is widely used as a natural cure for skin problems and one of them is scalp psoriasis. Tea tree oil contains pain-killing components that leave affected regions relieved, moisturized and exfoliated. An easy do-it-yourself home treatment for psoriasis will include 1 part of tea tree oil mixed with 6 parts of almond oil. Lavender oil can also be used. Just apply this on the affected areas with the help of a cotton ball. You may also gently massage it on to your scalp but make sure that you have clean hands while doing this.
But, if you’re not the type who has time to whip up your own scalp psoriasis oil, then you can look for Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree Shampoo. It has tea tree oil and other ingredients that are good for eczema and psoriasis. Just make sure that you check out the label for ingredients that you are allergic with to prevent additional complications.
It is imperative that you find the best and most effective psoriasis treatment to prevent you from developing plaque psoriasis or hair loss. Getting yourself checked by a doctor who specializes in skin problems like this is advisable above all else. They can correctly diagnose your condition and recommend suitable medications to help you out of your misery.

Fruit that can Whiten Your Skin

Who doesn’t like fruit? They’re delicious, affordable, and good for your health. They contain vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial substances that can help you keep an ideal weight, flush out toxins and improve the tone of your skin. Fruits can also give your skin and hair that healthy glow. As a matter of fact, there are fruits that can be used as natural skin whitening ingredients that are safer to use compared to store-bought skin lightening products.
With the emergence of news about harmful contents of whitening products like bleach, hydroquinone and other chemicals, people resort to natural ingredients. One of these natural ingredients is fruits. More and more people are going back to basics and being more watchful about their health and the environment. People are also getting more inclined to using natural and organic ingredients thus the popularity of home remedies or do-it-yourself skin care.
The abundance of natural ingredients like fruits and its undeniable affordability appeal to the masses. Just like in the past, people nowadays are using their own kitchen to concoct their very own skin potions. When it comes to skin whitening, there are three known fruits that can do just that.
First is papaya. The papaya tree is known to have come from Central and South America. Through the years, other regions, especially the ones that enjoy tropical weather like the Caribbean, Africa and Southeast Asia also started growing these fruit bearing trees. When still unripe, papayas have green skin and light green flesh. When ripe, papayas exude a yellow color on the outside and a bright orange color on the inside. You can use this as a refreshing natural face mask.
Papayas are known for “papain,” which is a natural whitening enzyme, making it a popular ingredient in skin whitening soap and lotion production. Papain whitens the skin through exfoliation. Exfoliation encourages the production and emergence of new skin cells thus giving the skin a healthy and bright glow. Fast cell renewal also helps fade dark spots and gives the skin an even tone. It may take a while before any difference can be seen since papain cannot stop melanin production.
The next top skin lightening fruit is bilberry. Commonly grown in Western Asia as well as in America’s Rocky Mountains, the bilberry plant is a close relative of blueberries. This will tell you that bilberries are also rich in antioxidants which are helpful in hunting vicious unpaired elements that make the skin old and cells damaged. Its dark hue come from its high antioxidant content known as “anthocyanoside.”

Anthocyanosides have the ability to reduce melanin production thus brightening skin discolorations while keeping the skin smooth and young looking. Bilberries also act as an astringent that makes the skin peel thus removing dead skin cells. This is attributed to its lactic acid and high tannin content. Bilberries are usually mashed or blended to be used as a facial mask. If fresh ones are not in season, its extracts usually sold in health food stores or online health shops can be used.
Last but not the least is lemons. Probably one of the oldest and most known natural remedy for dark skin, lemons are rich in Vitamin C and natural bleach which are effective ingredients for skin whitening. Acid in lemons are also good exfoliants that can make your skin peel off unwanted dead cells and lighten hyper-pigmentation. Its natural bleaching properties can also lighten skin hairs thus preventing freckles from forming.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice used as an astringent is generally safe and effective but should still be used with care especially for individuals who have sensitive skin. It won’t clog the pores but it can be irritating and can leave the skin red and dry if not used sparingly. Probably the best time to use it is at night wherein there is no sunlight. The acid in lemons can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays.
Lemon juice can be applied to the skin directly with a cotton ball to be left on the skin for ten minutes and washed off with tepid water. It can also be mixed with some almond or olive oil just to neutralize its acidity. Lemon slices can also be used as a spot treatment for dark spots. Make sure to apply sunscreen after using lemon on your skin.

Foods that may Cause Eczema

One of the most common indicators that a person is allergic to food is eczema. But, do not confuse this skin condition with allergy because it is not the same. Eczema is the body’s immediate response against substances that it is not attuned to. One of the most usual stuff that causes this reaction from the immune system is food. This explains the reason why eczema flares up when you consume foods that you have allergies with.
There are quite a lot of foods that are known causes of allergy which can prompt eczema attacks. Some of these common allergens are discussed below. However, some may or may not experience negative reactions from the foods mentioned here. This is because no two individuals are exactly alike. There are certainly a lot of different foods in the world and sometimes, the least you expect to trigger skin allergic reactions could be the culprit.
Moving on, you may try the following list of common food allergens and see if you will experience any negative effects. This procedure is called elimination diet. It will help you pinpoint exactly what food you should not eat for now. Nevertheless, the advice of a medical professional and certain test may indicate other eczema causes. If this is the case, a change in meal plan may not be the answer.
First on the list of foods to avoid in preventing eczema attacks are nuts. Nut allergy is very common. Almost every kind of nut can cause allergic reactions from almonds to peanuts, hazelnuts to cashews, pistachios to walnuts and a lot more. There are people who have intense allergies to these crunchy treats that some experience allergy attacks even from its smell.
Next on the list would be seafood. Large meaty crabs, lobsters and juicy shrimps, clams, mussels and oysters – for someone who loves seafood, the freshest catch is to die for! But for a person with allergies, shellfish is food that they can die from. Another common allergy trigger, seafood is extremely dangerous especially when consumed raw because it can aggravate the stomach and cause eczema to break out.
Dairy products and some animal byproducts such as milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, eggs and cream can be the reason for eczema to show up on the skin. Certain compounds found in milk for example are not digested or absorbed by the body thus causing the immune system to react in the form of eczema. These ingredients are lactose sugar, whey protein, and casein protein.

Another food trigger is wheat. One out of seven people in the population experience bad skin reactions after eating food that contains wheat. How common is wheat found in the food Americans eat every day? Flour for example is made of wheat and flour is the main ingredient in breads and other baked goods. Wheat is also used to make pasta, noodles, and even cereals. If you are not aware of the ingredients of the foods you eat, practice label reading before popping stuff in your mouth or in your grocery basket. It will help a lot in avoiding eczema breakouts.
Processed foods like canned goods, cured meats, hotdogs and other foods that have undergone certain procedures that call for the addition of preservatives, artificial color and other chemicals may not be safe to eat for someone with history of eczema. This is because these additives cannot be naturally digested by the body and for some with food allergies, automatically rejected in the form of eczema.
Last but not the least is too much acid in foods. Citrus fruits can easily be identified as acidic such as lemons, limes, and grapefruit. But did you know that blueberries and prunes are also acidic fruits? Additionally, so are corn, coffee, liver, meat, beans, grains, gravy, wine and distilled water are other foodstuff that may set off eczema because of their high acid content. Once the body goes over the normal acid count, eczema comes out in addition to GERD and other diseases.
With so many things to avoid because of fear of a bad eczema breakout, there are thousands of people who just stop having fun, going out and living their lives normally. Little do they know that by just spending time to fully understand this skin condition and discovering its actual trigger, it becomes easier compared to avoiding everything. This is especially true if a certain food is what’s causing this skin condition. Simply take that food away from your meals and soon enough, you will experience improvement on your skin.

Ways to Reverse the Effects of Sun Damage

Did you know that lying on tanning beds are as bad as sun exposure and that your skin can be damaged by the sun even during winter? Sunbathing is not as healthy or as safe as people used to believe. It can cause cancer, early skin aging and wrinkles. Studies even show that a person who stayed out in the sun too much during his or her childhood or have been careless about wearing sunscreens as he or she grew older faces a higher possibility of developing sun damaged skin and skin cancer in the future.
Treating sun-damaged skin is not a simple task. It takes long, needs a good amount of money and may hurt as well. Prevention is still the best cure, but once you see the following symptoms on your skin, you must find out the possible treatment procedures you can undergo to save your skin or your life.
If you think you’ve been best friends with the sun for too long and at the same time, you are approaching the end of the calendar, then it is recommended that you check your skin for the following symptoms of sun damage regularly.
Watch out for hyper-pigmentation like brown or red spots, sunburn marks that never go back to its original color and scaly, dry and sagging skin. You may also want to observe if you have early signs of ageing like fine lines, wrinkles, thick texture of the skin and complexion that is easy to bruise. Most importantly, look out for benign lumps or pre-cancerous lacerations on your skin and be sure to have this checked-up by a doctor.
There are 3 existing categories of treatments that can help reverse the effects of sun damage.
1. Topical Products
Over-the-counter or prescriptive topical creams and whatnots, there are tons of these skin care products available formulated to improve skin that has been ill-treated through excessive sun exposure. For an effective skin regimen, one must have an effective exfoliant, lightening cream, antioxidant cream, moisturizer that fights ageing and last but not the least, a hardworking sunscreen.
Exfoliants may come in the form of toners or cleansers that contain glycolic acid or alphahydroxy acids of about eight percent. This will be in charge of wiping out dead skin and improving production of collagen. Creams that contain natural whitening enzymes like kojic acid should be applied at night to lighten dark spots and any skin discoloration. Antioxidants are also very important to stop free radicals from bringing further damage to the skin. An anti-aging moisturizer should beat dryness and a broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher should give protection.
2. Cosmetic Procedures
This includes microdermabrasion using diamonds or brushes, photorejuvenation using IPL or Intense Pulsed Light and chemical peels using lactic acid, glycolic acid and TCA. Expect this type of treatments to be expensive since it should be done in a clinic and by a professional dermatologist. A series of treatments is also recommended for better results.

The common factor among these treatments is exfoliation or removing dead and damaged skin together with imperfections such as age spots, wrinkles, rough texture and redness. Once the old and damaged skin is removed, new skin is revealed and at the same time, cell reproduction is improved. However, these procedures may leave the skin even more sun sensitive so following doctor’s orders and precautions is very important.
3. Holistic Approach
Skin that shows severe damage from the sun can get uglier because of stress. So, in treating this condition, a complete body and mind approach is recommended. If you want to look younger and relaxed, a complete lifestyle change is needed.
Eating the right portions of healthy foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants will give you energy to go through the day minus the stress. Starting your mornings with exercise is also a great way to have a good mood for the rest of the day. It will also keep you fit and having a fit body can make a person look young. Finding time to relax with important persons in your life as well as getting complete sleep can help the body heal fast and keep your skin looking healthy and blemish-free.
Do not limit yourself from just one of these treatments. It’s best to consult a licensed dermatologist to find out the extent of damage on your skin and the best approach to use. On the last note, serious sun protection to prevent skin damage is still the best cure.

Avocados: The Wonder Food for your Skin

Avocados are not just used for making your favorite Mexican dip but are great food for the skin and overall health as well. This fruit that thrives in tropical regions dates back to ancient Mexican civilizations. The Aztecs consumed it as food and discovered its healing properties for hair and skin conditions. Avocados prove to be a very healthy produce for its high vitamins, minerals and essential fat contents not only for the body but also for the skin. This makes it one of the most beneficial skin foods.
These creamy green wonders are indeed rich in vitamins with the likes of Vitamins A, B, E and D. These vitamins make the skin strong with antioxidants that protect it against dryness, wrinkles, blemishes and free radicals. It is also an energy booster and helps the body metabolize better to achieve moisture balance. If you are familiar with the fat Carotenoid known as Lutein, avocados have a lot of these skin hydrating babies! Tests even say that it is the fruit that contains the highest amount of Lutein.
Would you believe that the potassium-rich banana comes after the mighty avocado when it comes to potassium count? Banana falls behind having 60% less potassium as opposed to avocados. This mineral is known as the youth potion for its ability to encourage the production of new cells thus rejuvenating the skin. Last but not the least; avocados are packed with sterolin which is a steroid compound found in plants. It acts as excellent moisture-boosters and helps fight age spots, improve the appearance of scars and even sun damage.
However, a lot of weight watchers shy away from avocados because of its seemingly high calorie and fat content. Little do they know that these are the main ingredients that make this fruit work wonders for the skin. Yes, it is indeed fatty but these fats are considered healthy, known as mono-unsaturated fats and poly-unsaturated fats or good fats. These healthy fats help boost the skin’s moisture making it glow and looking radiant.
If you’re worried about the calorie count, avocados contain lower calories than cheese, nuts and butter. A recent study even shows that it can help trim down the waist. How? Researchers believe that the secret may be contained in the unsaturated fats it contains which increase the hormone leptin. Leptin is sometimes referred to as the hunger-stopping hormone that sends messages to the brain telling you that you’re already full. In effect, you stop eating. You can now let go of your fear of getting fat when you eat avocados because the truth is, they’re really good for you!
But, remember that avocados aren’t just made for eating. Almost every part of it are used as is or processed into lotions, oils, creams, and others because of its properties that are proven beneficial for the skin. For example, avocado pulp which is the green meat retained on its peels was first used by ancient peoples as hair pomade to treat hair loss and as immediate treatment for wounds. The pulp is also loaded with essential fatty acids and vitamins that can fight wrinkles and make the skin soft and smooth.
The creamy flesh of avocados was initially used as sunburn relief and shaving cream since it contains substances that help in depilation. It is also commonly mixed with olive oil or almond oil and yogurt to create a refreshing homemade face mask. It’s a cheap and easy to make 15-minute leave-on mask. It evens out skin tone and moisturizes dry skin, hair and scalp.
Avocados are also esteemed for its essential oil that are extracted and processed into massage oils, moisturizing creams, lotions, hair products and shaving creams. Aside from its moisturizing effect, avocado essential oil is also relaxing and highly absorbent. Research even shows that it aids in blocking harmful UV rays and is used to treat eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis as well. Its seed was used by old people as relief for toothache but it can also be produced into powder and used as anti-dandruff treatment. Avocado seed oil on the other hand is known for its ability to improve skin sclerosis.
So, when you chance upon some fresh avocados or skincare products made from the fruit, go ahead and buy some. Discover how this skin food can make a beautiful difference to your skin and health.

Cystic Acne – Causes and Treatment

Cystic acne or what you call nodulocystic acne is the most serious form of acne vulgaris. Its main characteristics are swollen red pustules with pus and sore nodules that can be really painful. Acne scars are very common results of this type of acne once they are not treated properly through pricking and use of ineffective medications. It also requires a longer length of time to heal as compared to milder types of acne.
It is usually mistaken as acne rosacea because of their similarity in appearance. Acne Rosacea is pimples and skin blemishes seen on the forehead, chin, cheeks and nose and is very distinguishable because of its reddish color and nodules. The difference between rosacea and cystic acne is that the former do not result from blackheads or whiteheads which the latter result from. Rosacea pimples are not extractable as well unlike blackheads and whiteheads.
With cystic acne, there are three things to consider that when altogether may result to cystic acne. First are agitated oil glands that most acne-prone individuals have. Their sebaceous glands produce more oil than usual and soon enough clog pores, hence resulting to outbreaks when infected. Research shows that the sebum produced through oil glands of people with bad acne breakouts have high compositions of squalene and wax esters, and low composition of free fatty acid and linoleic acid. This setting allows the P. acnes bacteria (or Propionibacterium acnes) to proliferate fast.
Second is increased production and reduced shedding of skin cells. Acne-prone individuals create more skin cells than the average person. However, when too many skin cells die, they need to be removed by the skin but this does not happen regularly. The result, dead skin cells block the follicles and result to clogged pores.
Third is the increased amount of acne bacteria that happens when a pore gets blocked and oxygen is zapped out. This is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Although the skin has a certain number of P. acnes, once the bacteria explodes in number, pimples break out and the infection can spread to other pores through frequent touching of the face. P. acnes live on sebum and they create a substance that can damage the pore’s lining which result to redness and inflammation.

Acne bacteria cannot be destroyed with regular face washing. Certain chemicals are recommended to be included in your skin care product to kill acne bacteria. Benzoyl Peroxide is on the top of the list. Others are tetracycline and antibiotics.
Retinoids such as Accutane is also considered an effective treatment for severe acne like this one. It prevents scarring and is proven to treat ninety percent of serious problems of the skin. Also known as Isotretinoin, it is a doctor prescribed oral medicine that is advised to be continuously used for a period of five months and to be taken twice daily. What Accutane does is that it reduces the oil glands’ size thus making it produce smaller amounts of oil and lesser growth of bacteria.
Another option in treating cystic acne is a cortisone shot. Steroidal cortisone shots are commonly used to treat severe skin conditions since it can successfully halt inflammation, expedite healing and stop the condition from resulting to unsightly acne scars. The hormone cortisone is produced by the body and works by reducing inflammation, but the amount released by the body is not sufficient when it comes to severe swelling of the skin because of nodulocystic acne. This is where steroid hormone shots come in.
As explained earlier, cystic acne is not primarily caused by having poor hygiene but it is a condition caused by internal factors such as abnormal oil production and hormonal imbalance). This fact makes topical acne treatments futile when it comes to addressing this type of acne. Aside from the abovementioned acne treatments, another possible cure that may help improve the condition is multivitamins. Vitamin B5 and Zinc capsules for acne are vitamins that can help break down oil by limiting sebum production while improving the system’s metabolism of skin oil. Compared to Accutane, results may not be seen as fast and may not be as effective for others.
Of course, do not fail to visit a licensed dermatologist who can give the right assessment and medication for your situation. Having patience and a good attitude can also help a person suffering from cystic acne build up their self-confidence as they wait for their skin to finally clear up.

Revitalize Your Skin with Papaya

You will notice that many skin care products today contain papaya. That’s because this common fruit has more to offer you than its delicious taste. Papaya is actually rich in vitamins and nutrients that are essential for the repair of damaged skin cells and is therefore a very effective way to get rid of the early signs of aging such as wrinkles and blemishes. One of the most well-known benefits of papaya to the skin is that helps whiten dark spots; that’s why you often see it contained in skin whitening soap and creams. But do you know that papaya also has the ability to help tighten the skin and eliminate skin sagging and wrinkling? That’s right. That’s why more and more people today who are looking for natural skincare solutions are turning to this wonderful fruit.
Papaya may not be as tasty as other fruits that you know but is nonetheless packed with antioxidants that makes it a natural beauty product. The fruit is very rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant known for its ability to boost collagen and elastin production. Both collagen and elastin are what compose the skin’s structure, but as you grow old, production of these two elements slow down, causing your skin to sag and become dull. With the help of a powerful antioxidant like vitamin C from papaya, the production of these two are enhanced, giving your skin its natural glow once again.
Two other popular vitamins you will find in papaya are vitamins A and E. As we all know, vitamin A is vital for the health of the eyes, but do you know that it is essential for your skin’s health as well? Vitamin A comes in the form of beta-carotene in papaya, and when consumed, it helps curb the negative of UV rays in your skin. Vitamin E on the other hand is a well-known moisturizer, and is also a very popular anti-aging component. These three vitamins alone are enough to take care of the free radicals that destroy skin cells and cause the skin to age prematurely.

It’s not only the papaya that has the ability to revitalize the skin. Even the sap of the fruit contains an enzyme that experts consider to be a natural skin exfoliator. This enzyme is called papain. Papain is a form of pepsin that is commonly found in fruits and vegetables. Generally, papain is given to people who are suffering from digestive problems. However, the enzymes amazing exploits do not end to treating stomach aches and indigestion. Today, there are many skincare products that contain this ingredient especially lotions and topical creams.
That is because papain has the ability to boost the skin’s process of eliminating dead skin cells. When skin cells die, the skin pushes them to the epidermis to slough them off. However, when there is a huge amount of these dead skin cells covering the surface of the skin, the skin will begin to appear dry and dull. That’s where exfoliation comes in. While the skin has a natural way of exfoliating, it is sometimes not enough to get rid of all the dead skin cells, that is why ingredients like papain are needed to help loosen dead cells and get rid of them.
Nowadays, the most common use of papaya is as a skin whitener. It seems that each time a new skin whitening product comes out, you can expect that product to contain papaya as one of its main ingredients. Again, it is the enzyme papain that is believed to be the major component of papaya that helps in skin whitening. However, experts agree that vitamins A, C, and E also play a major part not just in improving the skin’s complexion but also helping it become softer and smoother.
We all know that the health benefits of papaya are not limited to the improvement of the skin’s health. For ages now, papaya has been used as cure for digestive problems. It is also known to improve cardiovascular health and boost the immune system with its rich content of B vitamins, vitamin K, fiber, folate acid, magnesium, and potassium. But above all else, papaya, whether taken as a dessert or applied to the skin as part of a skin care product can surely help revitalize your skin’s health.

How to Deal with Oily Skin

One of the most common skin problems faced by both teenagers and adults is oily skin. Unlike other skin types, oily skin is very difficult to deal with especially since it can cause a lot of other skin problems like acne, skin blemishes, and even skin dullness. Teenagers who are in their puberty stages are more likely to have oily skin problems, although older individuals can suffer from it too.
There are several reasons why other people have oily skin while others do not. First, having oily skin can be a result of heredity. If you were born to parents who have oily skin themselves, then there’s a huge chance for you to have the same skin type as them. Hormonal fluctuations are also to be blamed for oily skin especially among women. Pregnant women and women who are undergoing menopause are especially prone to this because of the unpredictable hormonal changes going on in their bodies.
Another reason for having oily skin is stress. When you are under a lot of stress, your body produces an excess amount of oil especially in the area around your face. The kinds of food you eat also contribute to oily skin, as well the kind of environment you are always exposed to. The good thing is, even though you are naturally born having oily skin, there are many things you can do that will help you deal with such skin problem.
Oil that is produced by the skin is also known as sebum. Sebum is not completely a bad thing. In fact, it is essential for the maintenance of the health of both your skin in hair. However, there are instances when the sebaceous glands, the glands that produce sebum, produce more sebum than they should. When this happens, your skin appears to be greasy or oily than usual, making it look unhealthy at the same time.
An effective way to manage skin that is oily is through regular cleansing. However, this is not as easy as it sound since the media overwhelms you with skin care products we aren’t sure are effective in the first place. And more often than not, you commit the mistake of buying and using a product that is not actually suitable for your skin type, giving you more problems than before. Therefore, be careful when choosing treatments for oily skin especially since there are many products today that contain harsh ingredients that can damage your skin.
Some people think that using products that have strong chemical content can solve their skin problem fast. However, the opposite is true and doing so usually leaves problems that are even worse.
When choosing products like soap, moisturizer, and other cosmetics, be sure to pick one that has the least potential of irritating your skin. There are products that may seem good from the outside, but when you start using them, they irritate your skin as well as increase your skin’s oil production. Moisturizers, for instance, are intended for keeping your skin well-hydrated. However, there are some moisturizing products that may have some oil content. These are the products you would want to avoid because they can leave your skin appear greasy after use. So, the next you plan to buy a skincare product, be sure to pick one that’s intended for oily skin type.
If you are tight on budget and have no desire at all of buying commercial skincare products, you can choose to go natural instead. Many people today are starting to prefer the use of home remedies for treating oily skin. Aloe vera, cucumber, and lemon are just some of the natural ingredients that are found to control the skin’s oil production and are therefore perfect for people with oily skin. Some people apply these things directly to their skin, while others combine them to come up with a homemade facial. Whatever way you choose, just be careful when using home remedies because like commercial products, they may carry some risks with them.
Some people struggle with oily skin problem their whole lives, while for others, the problem may seem to go away as they reach a certain age. Whatever the case, you can rest assured that as long as you can practice proper hygiene, eat a well-balanced diet, maintain a good skincare regimen, and get rid of stress in your life, you can overcome such a problem as oily skin.

Introduction to Stretch Marks

Properly called as striae, stretch marks are a skin problem that many men and women face today. Stretch marks are actually considered as a form of scarring that happens when the second layer of the skin, which is the dermis, is stretched or expanded beyond its limits. There are several areas in the body where stretch marks may appear but usually in body parts where there is a large fat deposit such as the thigh, the buttocks, the legs, the belly, and the breasts. Stretch marks may appear reddish in color especially when it is newly formed, however, their visibility may gradually decrease over time. While stretch marks are generally harmless, many people, especially women prefer to have them removed as they can alter the appearance of body parts where they appear.
There are many theories as to why stretch marks are formed, and while most people think they are a result of rapid weight gain and weight loss (which is also partly true), studies suggest that they are actually a result of hormonal fluctuations. These hormonal fluctuations usually occur when a person gains weight during puberty and among women, during pregnancy. For men, stretch marks may develop as a result of muscle mass gain when body building. When there is a sudden change in weight, the glucocortisoid hormones in the body may affect the production of collagen and production in the skin. And since these two are what mainly gives the skin form and structure, the skin may lose support and begin to sag when collagen and elastin production is disturbed, thus, the development of stretch marks.
Again, stretch marks are not considered a harmful condition and will in no way ever produce a negative effect to the health. However, since they are too unsightly to look at sometimes, many people choose to have them gotten out of the way. While there are those who believe stretch marks can be removed naturally, many still prefer to opt for the fast and easy way, which is through surgery. One of the most common form of surgery for stretch marks is the Laser stretch mark removal. In this conventional procedure, stretch marks are removed through the use of a laser beam that zaps the damaged skin tissues. This may be a very quick solution for stretch marks but can also rather be expensive.
Another method is microdermabrasion. Just like in laser surgery, stretch marks are blasted in this procedure, only that aluminum oxide crystals are used instead of laser beams. Finally, there’s Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck as many people prefer to call it. This procedure is actually a form of plastic surgery designed to get rid of stretch marks by removing excess fat from within the belly area or abdomen. Once all the excess fat have been removed, the skin in the tummy is then “tucked” or sutured back into place.
Surgical procedures for stretch marks are very popular and are preferred by many men and women. However, there are those who find such methods too expensive and too risky. For that reason, home remedies for stretch marks were developed. Among the most common stretch marks home remedies include stretch marks creams and lotions, aloe vera gel, shea butter, and cocoa butter. There are also those who try chemical peels for removing stretch marks, however, most medical experts do not advise them since their effectiveness is only limited to the outer layer of the skin. Furthermore, experts suggest that if you want to treat stretch marks effectively, you have to use a product that has the capability of penetrating deep into the skin and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Otherwise, do not waste your money on commercial products that do not deliver what they promise.
Aside from surgical procedures and home remedies, other effective ways in dealing with stretch marks are regular exercise and a well-balanced diet. While there is no proof whether certain foods can contribute to the elimination of stretch marks or not, eating the right foods that help control your weight will definitely help as well as performing firming exercises such as brisk walking, cycling, and many more.

Quench Dry Skin Using Essential Oils

Having dry skin is discomforting and embarrassing, and these are the reasons why people who suffer from it are always in search of a cure. Products that are natural and organic like essential oils are the in-thing today and more people are resorting to these home remedies. They do this to save on money and make sure that they are not using harmful ingredients on their skin. Now, there are essential oils that specifically target dry skin and give fast relief to itch which is the common aftermath of having this skin condition on winter months.
There are many kinds of oils that are good for dry skin, and it might do you well to give some of these a try. Of course, bear in mind that what works for another person may not necessarily work as well for you, underlying the importance of finding the best match for your particular skin type.
1. Carrier Oils
Jojoba oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil and Aloe Vera are some of the most common carrier oils. The last one, which is Aloe Vera is not actually a kind of oil but considered as one of the best types of carrier because of its moisturizing and soothing properties. Carrier oils are usually cold-pressed and do not disperse quickly compared to essential oils. This characteristic makes it very effective in making essential oils highly absorbable by the skin.
2. Chamomile Oil
Its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties make chamomile a soothing oil for itchy and dry skin. It is actually used as a reliever for psoriasis, eczema and sunburn which are skin problems with symptoms of itchy, dry and flaky skin. The essential oil of chamomile flowers can be mixed well with other oils such as tea tree, rose, grapefruit, lavender, bergamot and ylang-ylang.
3. Carrot Seed Oil
May be considered as one of the best healing oils for aging and dry skin, it is also considered as one of the priciest. Carrot seed oil is loaded with beta carotene, Vitamin A and carotol. These vitamins and minerals help in improving restoration of damaged skin cells, balancing dry and oily skin, improving the symptoms of eczema and reversing the early signs of ageing. To use, tiny amounts of the oil can be mixed with more affordable base oils like sunflower seed oil or jojoba oil. It can also be blended with a neutral cream.
4. Geranium Oil
Geranium oil is effectively used with other essential oils like cedarwood, jasmine, carrot seed oil or rosemary to treat dry complexion. This type of distilled oil from the blossoms of geranium plants is also proficiently used in curing a variety of skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema. This is so because of its ability to fuel a continuous production of skin oil which helps give a smooth and supple texture to the skin.

5. Ylang-Ylang
Originating from Indonesia, the ylang-ylang flowers are very sweetly fragrant. But, more importantly, its essential oil is powerful in giving balance to the production of natural oils in the skin which makes it an ideal ingredient to fight dryness and itching. You will find Ylang-Ylang oil in a lot of skincare products. It is also compatible to blend with other natural oils like sandalwood, bergamot and lavender.
6. Sandalwood Oil
The best kinds to buy are those originating from India, making this oil costly but worth it in treating dehydrated skin. Like geranium oils, sandalwood oil is also distilled from the sandalwood tree. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can quickly give relief to itch. Castor oil is used to carry sandalwood oil but other ingredients such as lavender, jasmine, clary sage and lemon can also be mixed with it.
On the last note, the use of essential oils to treat dry skin conditions may not be for everybody. Some may be allergic and some are not safe to be used during pregnancy. It is recommended that an advice from a medical practitioner is acquired before using essential oils.

Best Vitamins to Fight Skin Dryness

If you lack some of the essential vitamins for proper nutrition, it may result to skin dryness. A healthy body and healthy skin are positive effects of having the daily required amounts of vitamins and minerals. So, aside from just loading up on external treatments such as creams and skin clinic visits, you can also look into another option that works internally which is loading up on vitamins from food and daily supplements.
Getting the circulatory system up and going with the right levels of moisture and nourishment to deliver to the cells will keep them healthy as well. The good stuff doesn’t just get deposited on the cells but on other parts of the body that affect how the oil glands produce enough amounts of sebum. The skin’s natural oil allows moisture to protect and prevent the skin from dryness.
Lacking or getting too much of a certain vitamin can both lead to dry skin. So, it is best to have a diet plan and to consult a doctor for the specific supplements you need to take. In fighting dry skin, the following vitamins and minerals are especially helpful.
1. Vitamin E
Your skin’s best friend! Vitamin E helps in repairing skin cells, protects the skin from toxins, and keeps it supple and glowing. Olive oil is one of the best sources of this vitamin as well as other vegetable oils, nuts, wheat germ and seeds. Vitamin E supplements are also available but it is recommended that you purchase organic brands that use natural ingredients only. But, be careful in taking Vitamin E supplements with other medications like blood thinners since it has similar effects.
2. Vitamin A
This vitamin leaves the skin smooth and soft. If you have dry skin, it is a must to include sweet potato, carrots, spinach, apricots, papaya, and fish liver oil just to name a few to your meals. On the other hand, Vitamin A supplements should be taken with caution especially for pregnant women because it can result to birth defects. Overdosing on Vitamin A may leave the skin even more dry, cracked and scaly.
3. Vitamin B
B Vitamins include Thiamine, Biotin, Pantothenic acid and Riboflavin. To not get proper doses of these vitamins can affect your skin’s texture. Vitamin B is found mostly in whole grain cereals such as barley, oats and wheat, and also in leafy veggies such as cabbage and spinach. Pantothenic acid or Vitamin B5 found in chicken and animal liver is in charge of fat metabolism. Riboflavin on the other hand helps prevent crackly skin, dermatitis and dry lips. This B vitamin is usually attained from consuming dairy products. Raw egg white, oats, corn and soybeans are rich in biotin which keeps the skin, nails and scalp healthy.
4. Beta Carotene
Did you know that the liver is in charge of converting Beta Carotene into Vitamin A? So, if you smoke and you’re suffering from dry skin and liver problems, you better not take in too much of this vitamin if you don’t want to end up with orangey soles and palms. Better yet, stop smoking and you’ll see great improvements on your skin! Alternatively, if you don’t have a problem with your liver but being careful not to overdose on Vitamin A, you can choose to eat foods rich in Beta Carotene such as carrots, oranges, Goji berries, and fruits and vegetables that are rich yellow, green and red in color.
5. Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are healthy acids that are consumed from specific foods and daily supplements. These acids keep the fat level below the epidermis with enough moisture and give the cell membranes the ability to retain water and absorb nutrients. One of the known acids that belong to this group is Omega 3. It is richly acquired from cold-water fish like tuna, salmon and halibut. Other sources are flaxseed oil, dark and leafy vegetables, walnuts, avocado and a lot more. Evening primrose oil in capsule form are also good sources of essential fatty acids, one of which is gamma-linolenic acid, which studies say is effective in healing eczema and extreme skin dryness.
Now, before you run to the store and buy your own supplement preference, you must first visit a doctor to have yourself properly diagnosed. If the dryness of your skin is indeed a result of vitamin deficiency, then your doctor or dietitian will recommend a diet plan and the appropriate supplements to take with it. This will avoid any health risks and complications especially if you are under certain medications or if you are bearing a child.

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