Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Causes of Acne ? Solution and Acne Control

In order to answer this question, we should first examine different types and causes of acne. It?s important to note that you are not alone in your struggles with acne. Acne is a skin condition which effects millions of people. Acne does not discriminate. It can appear on the faces of the young and old of both sexes of any and every cultural background.

Types of Acne:

Whitehead Acne: As the name suggests, whiteheads are named after their appearance. If your pores are clogged, yet bulge with a white tip - these are whiteheads.

Blackhead Acne: Like the whitehead, a blackhead is named after it?s physical description. If your pores become clogged, yet stay open - a blackhead becomes visible. The top surface of that part of your skin will darken, displaying the rapped dirt in the pore.

Pimple Acne: Sometimes our pore open, leaving them vulnerable to bacteria. Should bacteria, known as sebum, enter - the skin will display a red bump. This is commonly referred to as a pimple.

Nodule: These are clogged pores which are very deep in the skin. These nodules are infected lumps or cysts which can be tender to the touch or very painful.

Causes of Acne:

Hormonal changes in teenagers and adults can cause different types of acne in teenage boys and girls. Statistics show that eight out of ten teenagers display some type of acne during their adolescent years.

While our bodies need some oils, excessive build-up of oils can promote blocked pores, causing whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.

Excessive washing removes all oils from the skin. The face needs some oil to maintain its healthy appearance. Otherwise you become a candidate for dry damaged skin or more acne.

Scrubbing your face is never the solution. Gentle exfoliation is always suggested, but scrubbing is a no-no. The objective is to soothe your face and rid it of acne. Not aggravate the skin and cause yourself pain. Washing your face with water, while healthy for your skin, is unlikely to remedy the issue ? which lies in the buildup of oils in the skin caused by DHT.

Acne Solution:

Finding an acne treatment that attacks the real root cause of acne ? the buildup of oils in the skin which leads to blackheads and attracts bacteria. By reducing the level of DHT in the skin layer, oil production is reduced, thereby eliminating acne creating at the source.

Jen Carter is team member for Clearogen, a new acne treatment created by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr Alex Khadavi, designed to attack the root causes of teenage and adult acne instead of simply addressing the symptoms. Visit http://www.clearogen.com

Ohh La La Your Body Knows The Benefits Of Spa Treatments

Spa treatment is becoming more and more popular these days. Spa treatment is not limited to beautification purpose, it offers several other benefits and this is one of the main reasons why most spa treatment is gaining such popularity. It can help to reduce stress, soothes your muscles, and provide overall relaxation for your mind and body. Visiting the spa provides an effective way of escapism from your tight work schedule to a world that is quiet and peaceful.

Most spas offer various treatments and it is vital from your part to select the best that suits your needs. Some of the most popular treatments include Massages, Facials, and full Body treatment.

Massaging is considered as an effective technique of body treatment. Massaging helps to lighten muscle rigidity, cramps, or tremors and help to alleviate tension and anxiety.

Types of massages

There are several types of massages that execute various functions for your body. The different types of massages include:

Swedish massage

Swedish massage includes a wide range of techniques for muscle relaxation. This is achieved by applying pressure to them against bones and muscles. Swedish massage helps to boost the oxygen flow in the blood and releases the pollutants from your muscles.

Deep tissue massage

Deep tissue massage is performed on the deeper layers of one?s muscle tissue. This helps to releases chronic muscle tension from one?s body. Deep tissue massage allows proper circulation of blood and oxygen and releases toxins from your muscles. It also helps to eliminate scar tissues.

Sports massage

Sports massage is exclusively designed for sports personnel. A sports massage is done to reduce tension and stress, which develops in the body?s soft tissues mainly during bodily strain. It can be done before, during, or after an athletic event. Sports massage helps the athletes to reduce muscle tension, relieve swelling, and drain away exhaustion.

Aromatherapy massage

Aromatherapy is a very useful and effective spa treatment. During aromatherapy massage one need to inhale essential oils through the mucosa of the nose and mouth. It is found that this type of massage offers several emotional and mental benefits.

Facial treatments

Facial treatments help to clean and cleanse the skin by dropping dead skin cells. Facials increase the smoothness of skin and maintain a good hydrated skin. There are different types of facial treatments. Such as:

Oxygenating Facial ? This treatment is perfect for those with dull looking skin. This type of facial features a vitamin formula that helps to restore tired skin.

Deep-Cleansing Facial ? this type of facial is targeted to skin type that generally utilizes a gentle botanical peel with essential oils.

D.N.A. Facial: this is a unique treatment for the skin, which helps to restore collagen. This helps to nourish tired skin.

Sea Beauty Facial ? this facial treatment helps to re-vitalizes one?s skin.

Body Treatment

Almost all spas offer body treatments. Body treatments are considered very important to your body as it helps to hydrate, nourish, and remove dirt from the inside your pores. Body wrap, body scrub, and body mask treatments are some of the most popular body treatments.

Body wraps may include moor herbal therapy treatment. Body scrub consists of massaging of the person?s skin with a blend of oil, salt, and aromatics like lemon. This eliminates the dirt from your skin and makes it smooth and soft. A body mask usually follows a body scrub.

To conclude, spa treatments prove to be a very effective way to provide relaxation for your mind and body. It is a perfect way to get relief from the strain of this high-tech world. Do your body a favor, and treat it to a spa treatment that it is right for you. Your body will be saying ooh la la!

Keisha Seaton is the owner of My Articles Directory. Visit My Articles Directory today to read more Beauty Articles, your body depends on it!

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Body Massage: The Healing Touch

Most of us experience this feeling of just giving up our fatigued bodies to a masseur who will massage away all the aches and pains caused by physical stress and mental tensions. The pain just seems to vanish out of your system once it is their expert hands. If you keep dreaming about this on your low days, well you are probably not alone for massage is a known stress reliever. Massage at its best has the power to restore the individual physically, mentally and spiritually.

What is a full body massage? How to massage?

Technically, full body massage is a hands-on manipulation of the skin, muscle and joints to relax muscle spasm, relieve tension, improve circulation and hasten elimination of toxins and wastes from the body. Massage is an ancient art. It has been known to be in practice in the Orient for over 3000 years. The expert hand of the masseur not only rubs away fatigue inducing stress but also improves blood circulation in the body. Apart from creating a pleasant sensation on the skin, it also works on the soft tissue (the muscles, tendons and ligaments) to improve muscle tone. Although it mainly affects the muscles just underneath the skin, its benefits may also reach the deeper layers of muscle and possibly even the internal organs.

Massage Therapy: Alternative medicine?

An essential part of alternative medicine, massage has gained popularity in the West too and is widely used to treat a variety of ailments. Different forms of massage include - Acupressure, Athletic Massage, Polarity Massage, Reflexology, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Sports Massage, Swedish Massage, Traeger Massage and Watsu. Aromatherapy massage makes use of aromatic essential oils known for their stress relieving effects. Manipulation of soft tissues affects many of our bodily systems; hence massage therapy stands to help many of the health problems we face today.

General Benefits of Massage

? Soothing relaxation
? Healing
? Eases tension, stiffness and pain
? Improves breathing
? Improves circulation
? Enhances well-being

The therapeutic benefits of massage

? Massage aims to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function.
? Boost immune system function, improve circulation and speed up recovery time.
? Relax tight and tense muscles
? Ease or prevent physical dysfunction and pain.
? Reduces overall stress and fatigue
? Massage therapy is effective in the control of pain - chronic or acute, stress reduction and in creating a sense of soothing relaxation and well-being.
? Massage can be fun and can be wonderfully sensual; it can be an effective tool to revive a sagging sex life. Erotic Thai massages or even simple massages are a great way to begin a night of intimacy.

Full Body Massage helps you relax!

Although even a one odd massage does leave you with a pleasant feeling, the effects of massage are cumulative and undergoing a series or course of massage treatments, is what will give you the maximum benefits. Regular massages strengthen and tones the muscles and boosts the entire body mechanism, so as to prevent unnecessary strains and injuries. Massage has the power to stimulate the nervous system as much as it can relax, hence it can be used, depending on the individual's need.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for some of the most common illnesses and health problems

Psoriasis and Acne Natural Treatment

Dead Sea Minerals Products- Natural Psoriasis Treatment

The Dead Sea serves as a health and rehabilitation beauty spa. It holds many Beauty centers, Spa and Mineral pools that patients can rest in and cure their skin problems and achieve a mental relaxation.

Patients who suffer from: Psoriasis/Psoriasis-Arthritis/ Atopic Dermatitis/Vitiligo/ Arthritis/Asthma, have been using Dead Sea products to help relief their symptoms. The Dead Sea cosmetics and mineral products have proven to be greatly effective with reliefing symptomsof all Psoriasis, Eczema and other skin diseases.

Psoriasis patients around the world visit the Dead Sea very often and buy products for they found it the best natural treatment for their skin disease.

Unfortunately, Psoriasis, a chronic disease, cannot be cured and disappear forever.

Patients who suffer from Psoriasis must know that the Psoriasis treatment that is available today can only improve the diseases symptoms but cannot solve the problem forever.

This is why it is so important to maintain a healthy life style and know how to treat your skin so that the disease will stay under control and that the symptoms will be very delicate, almost in a degree to be ignored.

Psoriasis patients should use special cleaning and cosmetic skin care products that do not irritate their skin and cause them irritations of the skin.

Dead Sea Minerals are very popular among Psoriasis patients since they were proven very efficient in lowering the symptoms of the Psoriasis disease.

Obey Your Body's products are very good for people with sensitive skin and those who suffer from skin problems, such as Psoriasis patients.

Obey Your Body's Psoriasis Creams are very popular among Psoriasis patients, as the sooth the skin and make the symptoms almost totally disappear.

Obey Your Body Dead Sea Products

Celebrities Who Suffer From Acne Do They Really Exist

Is there any such thing as a celebrity who suffers from acne?

At first, it seems not? but that is only a myth - there really are celebrities out there who suffer from acne!

Many people envy those who have achieved celebrity status. They are viewed as rich and powerful? glamorous and sometimes even a little super-human.

When you see them on television, in movies or in the glossy magazines the men always look ruggedly handsome and the women look stunningly beautiful.

Seldom are we given the chance to see these celebrities, in the comfort and privacy of their own homes, as they wake up in the mornings. No doubt the envious population would change their options somewhat knowing that almost no one is particularly glamorous at that time of day.

Cosmetics, technology and advanced photo editing methods can easily make people look younger, thinner and magically cover up flaws such as freckles, scars and acne. This is just what the producers of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire have had to do.

All three adolescent stars - Daniel Radcliffe who plays Harry Potter, 15. Rupert Grint who plays Ron Weasley, 17 and Emma Watson 15, who plays Hermione Granger - have broken out with acne forcing the film makers of Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire to use special effects to hide their skin imperfections.

Celebrities deal with the same problems the rest of us do, acne being one of them. Britney Spears, Judith Light, Stephanie Seymour and Elle Macpherson have all publicly discussed how they have suffered from and corrected their acne problem.

By doing so, they have not only helped themselves, but millions of other acne sufferers around the world - they are positive proof that acne treatments work.

Your acne problem won?t be gone overnight, it will take time. But as you begin to see an improvement in your condition it is quite possible that you will begin to feel like a celebrity, too!

Acne Information :: Elaine Clay is the owner of Acne Treatments Online.com - get information, tips and articles to help you find proven and effective acne solutions that treat your condition safely and naturally

- Please feel free to use this article - provided it is published in it?s entirety, with my resource box and a ?live? clickable link to: Acne Information

Monday, December 29, 2008

Take Care of Your Teeth

A smile is a very important part of most people?s live for several reasons. One reason is confidence. A person with nice teeth will be a lot more confident in social situations such as job fairs and parties, whereas a person with bad teeth may be less confident and people will notice that. Another reason taking care of your teeth is important is because even though there are many procedures that can help fix them, many do not have a very natural look such as veneers.

Below are some things that anyone can do whether young or old to keep their teeth in good condition.

1. Brush and floss twice each day.

2. Cut back on soda and drink more water. Soda decays the teeth very badly if consumed to often. Drinking water provides fluoride and helps to prevent cavities.

3. Cut back on candy and other sweets. Candy and other also decay the teeth, instead try eating more fruit.

4. Where a mouth guard while playing sports. That will protect your teeth in the case of a hard shot to the mouth.

Doing the four things listed above can easily prevent teeth from becoming decayed and being knocked out or chipped during sports.

Andre Bias is a webmaster and is the owner of http://www.enlargementdeals.com, http://www.goodbyeacne.net, and http://www.inkjetdealz.com

How To Use Blackhead Remover

When ever you go to a beautician, dermatologist, cosmetologist, Always prefer to take your own tools with you to prevent yourself from blood born infections like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV.

How To remove Blackhead.
It is highly advised that you should also consult your dermatologist for proper use of these quality tools. However, here we can give you simple technique to use comedone extractor. Pesky blackhead is a mixture of dead skin cells, oil and bacteria that builds up inside our skin?s pores. Use the same tools as professional aesthetician or dermatologist use to extract blackheads, pimples & clogged pores. They can be exterminated by using a quality professional comedone extractor.

First, lay a warm, wet wash cloth on your face for a few minutes. After a shower is an ideal time to extract. Steaming the face or using a hot water compress is strongly recommended to help soften comedones. This will make them much easier to remove. When you're ready to begin the extraction process lay the looped side on top of the blackhead - basically encircling this area with the loop. Apply slow and even pressure lightly until the trapped sebum is forced out of the follicle. The blackhead ? oil and all ? will ooze up and out of the pore. Do not continue to attempt the extraction if the trapped sebum is not released easily. Applying too much force can cause infection and scarring. When piercing a whitehead with lancet (Pointed end), wait until the whitehead breaks open, then gently roll the tool over the whitehead. Be sure to disinfect the area when finished and clean your tool off with alcohol or hot water. A deep, cystic pimple should not be opened with the lancet. When dealing with deep acne, it's best to visit a dermatologist. A doctor may use a sterile needle, but only after a pustule has formed. Additional treatments depend on the severity of the acne.

Remember Never use fingers or suction guns for removing blackheads, that may aggravate skin infections.

Some women buy suction guns for blackheads. Suction Gun is made up of plastic, so can?t be sterilized. Suction gun toys never clean the pores completely and deeply, result is that you will get acne and pimples again. Suction Gun may cause broken capillary conditions and is also not very effective. Only the very superficial dead cells and dirt may be sucked away, leaving the condition with no evident improvement.

Always use Professional quality tools for your skin rather than buying cheap and lower quality implements.

To see complete range of blackhead removers, Blackhead Remover visit our site.

Dr.Armughan Riaz, working on following websites Barber scissors, Straigh Razors and Blackhead remover by Venusworldwide High Blood Pressure Symptoms Causes Diet Treatment

Beauty Basics Eight Tips For Naturally Beautiful Hair

Looking for a more natural approach to hair care? Here are some tips to help your hair look and feel its best.

1. Avoid shampoos that contain sodium laurel sulfate, or sodium laureth sulfate. These chemicals are synthetic detergents that are used in dishwashing liquid and other cleansers. They are valued because they lather well, but they are very harsh, and can dry out your hair. Instead, look for shampoos made with decyl glucose, or decyl glucoside, which are much gentler.

2. Give yourself a hot oil treatment to deep condition your hair. Warm oil penetrates the hair shaft making the hair more flexible and giving it shine. This can also help to prevent split ends which result from dry hair.

3. Eat right and consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements to encourage healthy hair. Several vitamins and minerals have been shown to help hair growth and condition including biotin, vitamin E, vitamin B, vitamin C and MSM.

4. If you are an African American, or if you have extra curly hair, avoid brushing your hair. Use a wide toothed comb, or your fingers to work with your hair. Brushes can destroy African American or extra curly hair by shearing it out of the scalp.

5. Look for essential oils, herbs and vegetable oils in your hair care products. Essential oils such as rosemary, ylang-ylang and west indian bay help to stimulate hair growth. Lavender and tea tree and naturally antiseptic and help to fight dandruff. Vegetable oils such as soybean oil, safflower oil and corn oil are moisturizing and conditioning to the hair shaft.

6. Avoid sleeping in hair accessories such as barrettes, scrunchies, head bands, etc. This can lead to hair damage.

7. Massage your scalp to help stimulate hair growth. Massaging helps stimulate hair growth by increasing the blood flow to the scalp. This nourishes the hair roots and helps to stimulate the hair growth process.

8. If your hair ends are damaged, give yourself a trim every so often to remove damage.

Ololade Franklin publishes Making Good Scents(TM), a newsletter for people who make their own bath and body care products. For information about Making Good Scents(TM) visit http://www.MakingGoodScents.com

6 Ways to Destroy a Beautiful Complexion

Women (and men. too) spend billions of dollars trying to make their complexions look great. Sometimes their efforts are self-defeating. Some of the following problems you have heard of before but I bet you haven't heard of all of this.

Sun damage

Harmful UV rays can cause scarring of the elastic tissues in your skin. These elastic tissues make skin soft and easy to move. A condition called solar keratosis develops from long term exposure to UV rays. This will cause the skin to lose its flexibility and will make a 30 year old woman look 59. Plus skin cancer can ruin your entire day. Use sunscreen.

Also, many women, after years of sun exposure develop a condition called, Fungal Solar Keratosis. The sun damage cracks the skin, allowing fungal parasites under the skin. These parasites will interfere with normal healing even if therapeutic skin creams are used. Special fungal skin creams are the only solution.

http://www.themoldlab.com
GrandPa@GrandPaGraham.com

Bad make up

Many manufacturers put chemicals in their products to make them last longer. It costs money to remove spoiled lipstick et al from the shelves of grocery stores and pharmacies. So they put things like phenol and formaldehyde in all their skin care products. Germs can't live with these poisons around. But these products are very caustic. They burn skin and can cause cancer.

Use only skin products without these poisons. Check the labels.

Dryness

If you live in a dry or salty environment, the dry air will suck moisture out of your skin. This causes the skin cells to shrivel up and makes puckering lines develop. Women in moist environments like Great Britain are noted for their youthful complexions.

Good chemical free moisturizers will help. Also moving to a lake will help.

Bad diet

Skin needs proper nutrition in order to replace dead skin cells with new softer, healthier cells. Of course, you entire body needs proper nutrition. But the skin shows the signs of improper diet long before the liver does. When did you ever see an unhealthy, ugly liver anyway? You've seen a lot of ugly skin.

Look up the food pyramid put out by the US government. Stick with this and you will generally be ok.

Air toxins

Household cleansers contain some of the deadliest materials known to humankind. Yet we cover our bodies with them when we clean our homes and offices. Many contain bleach which will destroy our skin and make us look like mummies. It's also bad for the lungs and kills sperm development in small boys.

Also chemicals in the air from household mold will cause the skin cells to toughen up and get scaly. The molds live in the walls and under sinks and send these chemicals into the air of your home.

http://www,tennesseemold.com

Illness

Of course, being sick makes you look terrible.

You don't need a dermatologist for most of these probems. Just common sense and a little time checking ingredient lists.

For 30 years, Dr Graham has been helping people treat and prevent disease by showing them how to live in a clean environment.

http://tennesseemold.com/ebooks.shtml
DrGraham@themoldlab.com
http://www.GrandPaGraham.com for free newsletter

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Water Therapy A Source To Good Health

Do you ever forget to breathe? Because, if we did, we might be six feet under. So how come we forget to drink water? There are many people who do forget to drink water, amazing? Just like how oxygen is vital for surviving, simply put, water plays an enormous part in our lives. There must have been many times during the day when we feel tired, low, exhausted or need that burst of energy in our body, and we reach out for food to satisfy our cravings, wherein we might actually be needing water to quench our thirst and get our energy levels up.

Health benefits of drinking water: Your daily intake Staying properly hydrated is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to stay in good health. The more water we drink, the healthier we become. Water increases the quality and the length of our lives. By developing good hydration habits, we, i.e. our body functions well. As we age, we become less sensitive to loss of water in our body, which leads to body wrinkles.

Drinking plenty of water is good idea to keep body lines, wrinkles, dehydration, etc at bay. Studies say that we should aim for ? oz of water per pound of body weight. We lose water through sweat, urine or bowel movements. It is preferable to sip water throughout the day rather than to gulp it because it will give your body more time to absorb it. Drinking at least 8 - 10 glasses of water a day is beneficial to us - for our skin, for our weight, for general good health.

1. It improves your energy, tones muscles you mental and physical performance and helps in weight loss.
2. It flushes out wastes, toxins, transports nutrients and regulates body temperature and allows for proper digestion.
3. Keeps skin healthy and glowing, as the skin feels moist with increase in energy levels.
4. It also alleviates migraine headaches, high blood cholesterol, rheumatoid arthritis pain, asthma allergies, and high blood pressure. By hydrating your body you can minimize your back pain.
5. Increased water consumption often helps to regulate our appetite because we often mistake our thirst for hunger and eat food when in fact our body is craving for fluid.

No alternatives for water
There is no substitute for this wonderful drink. Most people think that by consuming other liquids, they have had their share of water. But it is not so, sodas, beverages; coffee, tea, alcoholic drinks, etc. cannot be substitutes for water in any way. If you consume too much of beverages, coffee, etc. you rob your body of important vitamins, minerals, stimulate your pancreas, increase insulin level and takes the body out of its natural fat burning state.

Water and Weight
If you're trying to lose weight, water intake is important, as it?s good for digestion and prevents overeating. If you are not getting plenty of water, you will eat more to satisfy your body's craving for water. Water mobilizes and reduces the amount of fat deposit. A natural appetite suppressant, developing a good water drinking habit can be a long-term aid in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Need for Water
Factors that influence water needs are exercises, environment, illness or health conditions and pregnancy or breastfeeding. Water is especially important for pregnant women and nursing mothers. For athletes and workout fanatics, drinking water reduces cardiovascular stress and improves performance.

In addition, since water reduces body temperature, it makes the whole exercise process safer and more effective. Water is also an important healing tool for people with a history of kidney stones. Drinking water is also valuable in preventing urinary tract infections in both men and for women, flushing impurities out of the system. Drinking large amount of water eases the digestion process of solid foods. Adequate intake of water gives muscles a better contraction and tone. Prevents skin sagging, and finally maintains clear, healthy skin.

Water intake
An easy way is to start the day with the intake of a fresh cup or two of water. These first glasses are so critical because you are reversing any mild dehydration that may have occurred overnight, especially if you cut off your water consumption a couple of hours before bedtime in order to reduce nighttime trips to the bathroom.

If you are in the habit of showering and dressing before you go to the kitchen in the morning, you could leave a bottle of water to drink while getting ready. It is best to drink water on an empty stomach in order to avoid unnecessary dilution of digestive juices, have a glass or two of water, a half hour before and after meals.

Try to get into the habit of bringing a water bottle with you when you go out, whether to shop, walk or to an activity. When it is something as simple and inexpensive as drinking water, make the most of it ? don?t wait till you are thirsty. Drink water constantly throughout the day.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and benefits to some of the most common things in our life like water and its benefits.

Inner Cleavage!

I read an article back in March 2005 that had the words of the title of this article in it. I picked it up at the Cancer Center at Beaumont Hospital, in Detroit Michigan. It was a heartfelt story of a woman who had lost her breasts to Breast Cancer. The story went on to talk about Melissa Etheridge and of her deliberate boldness at the 2005 Grammy's, when she came out with a bald head, after her cancer treatments, as if proudly displaying it as her gift of life. The story went on to talk about women who in desperation for survival had in some ways traded their beauty for life.

I related to the story, being a breast cancer survivor myself. But, what truly touched me about that article was the woman in the story talking about how when her outer beauty had faded away, and during treatments, she was left with spirit, raw and powerful and hanging on with claws, daring her to live.

What a concept. Have you ever been dared to live? Tim McGraw has an old song titled Live like you were dying, about a man, who seemingly is given a certain number of years or months to live due to some type of fatal disease. In the song when asked what he was to do about this news, he replied with, skydiving, mountain climbing, and a wish to all of his friends to one day know what it feels like to live like you were dying.

I remember what it felt like going through my cancer treatments. I remember the ugliness of my body and the forced humbleness of a deep seeded pride. I recall wondering if I would live through it, the pain, the blisters and stress. Looking back, I realize, I lived every day. I lived more then each day then I sometimes do now. Why is it that we have to be faced with something tragic to appreciate LIFE? What is it in our human-ess that makes us forget the grace and mercy of God and the power of prayer until we are brought to our knees at a crucial point in our life and MADE to remember? Funny, how God sometimes has a way of reminding us of the fragility of life. I believe He does this just so that we DO remember.

I recently was reminded again last week when another lump was found after almost two years of survival. I'm a prayerful, faithful woman, but I found myself even MORE prayerful. I found more time to enjoy my days, to kiss my kids and tell my husband I loved him. I also found a lot more time for God. Hmmm, makes me wonder why. But isn't life funny that way? We move along forgetting that our time is short, our days are numbered, our fate is destined and we truly have no idea when Gods hand will reach down and pluck us from our busy, appointment filled, carpooling, grocery shopping, house cleaning, business building days. These precious days that we can't seem to find time to get on our knees and give thanks because we don't have the time. Why, because our lives are just too full. Too full. I want you to remember that last statement. Life IS full. Praise God our lives are filled! Live every single day of it!

We have one month, one day a year to get our families together to gather in praise and thanksgiving. A National Holiday will do that for most of us. But how about not waiting for that Thanksgiving Holiday or that crucial moment of unknown fate.

When you find yourself on your knees at times like these, stay there. We could all stand to kneel a little longer. My hope is that this year we remember Gods graces and appreciate our lives and everything in them because God is good! Something as simple as feeling your pulse each morning is proof of that. Keep on remembering. While you're at it, remember those full days when your inbox is so full that you can barely find time to breathe? Those are the days to be grateful for. Those are the days to get on your knees in praise because when your in-box is empty, you're dead.

By the way that lump in my breast? Nothing but a small cyst. Cancer Free another day! Praise the heavens for this and every day. I intend to fully live ALL of mine. How about you?

Melissa Privett is a Transformational Workshop Leader and Keynote Speaker. She is intensively trained to facilitate a myraid of seminars and workshops for personal and spiritual growth and self-acceptance. Her workshops are highly praised for their inspirational empowerment of women. Melissa is also available for Spiritual Life Coaching by phone or in person and Chakra and Energy Balancing by appointment. She can be reached at 248-231-8018 or visit her website at http://www.lifepathworkshops.com

Knowing Your Skin Type

People can spend years searching for their perfect skin care solution. Finding the right products can be a constant struggle. Many offer quick fixes or cures for skin conditions. Most experts agree that a skin care solution regimen includes several basic steps. Cleaning your skin is an important first step to healthy skin. Finding a cleanser that fits your skin type is best. Toners are a more aggressive product while astringents are the strongest of all these types of products.

Moisturizing your skin is the third step in a skin care solution. Chilling your moisturizer in warm weather and warming the moisturizer in cool weather helps your skin to absorb the moisture more readily.

Another important part of a skin care solution is protecting your skin in extremely hot or cold climates. Extended sun exposure can lead to serious skin problems. A skin care solution can help ease the symptoms of various skin conditions. Dry skin, a common skin condition, can be caused by many factors. Dry skin can affect the entire body. Dry skin can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Finding the Right Products Will Help You Develop a Skin Care Solution Lotions, balms, sun protect ants, cleansers, moisturizers, and many other products exist to relieve and cure skin conditions. Readily available products can often relieve most mild cases of skin conditions. Living with dry skin or other skin conditions can be annoying and frustrating. Finding the right skin care solution may take some time and effort; however, the benefits of working on your skin's health far outweigh the difficulties in finding appropriate skin care products.

Dermaglow offers ranges of organic and natural skin care and beauty products. http://www.dermaglow.co.uk

David Stanton 2005

Saturday, December 27, 2008

AntiAging Problem

Now a days anti aging is big problem, natural diet can reduce effect of anti aging. FOODS SUCH AS KALE, sweet potatoes, red bell peppers, black beans and brown rice can trip up Father Time before he comes creeping around adding body fat and depleting energy. As early as our twenties, a gradual decline in the immune and muscular systems begins to set in if not offset by restorative nutrients and regular exercise. It's not simply the years that have a damaging effect on our bodies, it's also those out-of-control free radicals--oxygen molecules that come unglued during normal cell functions. If not disarmed, the radical oxygen fragments attack our cell membranes and leave us vulnerable to such serious health problems as heart disease and cancer as well as signs of deterioration associated swith aging--sagging muscles, wrinkles and the need for reading glasses. Fortunately, the antioxidant nutrients--vitamins A, C and E, selenium and zinc--fight back. Here are specific foods that contain bodyguard nutrients and a dietary plan that promotes lasting vitality and timeless beauty.

Some Dietary Rules to Reduce Anti Aging Problem:

A diet rich in antioxidants stimulates the immune system and helps protect the body from signs of premature aging. Steal from time and live by the following guidelines:

1. Eat five vegetables and fruits daily. For nutrient density, choose produce in living color--deep greens, reds and oranges as in collard greens, tomatoes and mangoes.

2. Consume plenty of beans. For low-fat protein and high-quality fiber, make legumes--dry beans, peas, lentils or tofu--the focus of your meals several times a week.

3. Get enough calcium--800 to 1,200 milligrams daily. To keep your bones and teeth fortified, count on low-fat dairy products, especially yogurt, broccoli and spinach.

4. Get your fill of water. This is the nutrient your body needs in the greatest amount. Use a variety of liquids like diluted juices and herbal teas to achieve your quota of eight cups a day.

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Teenage Acne ? Helping to Cope with Skin Acne

Teenagers with acne may feel besieged by the sudden changes in their appearance. Puberty and acne have been known to go hand in hand. As if it?s not already hard enough for your child to see changes in their body, now they?ve been overwhelmed with acne! Unfortunately, teenage acne can severely damage your teenager?s self-esteem.

Male teenagers may feel insecure about their appearance, causing them to withdraw from social activities with the opposite sex. Females, on the other hand may hind behind make-up products such as foundation or concealer. These methods of ?coverage? usually aggravate acne and cause further blemishes.

While acne is generalized as a ?part of growing up,? there are many factors which contribute to teen acne. For instance, a diet which consists of soda, junk food, and greasy foods will invite acne. By all means, your teenager should have fun and snack every now and then. But over-indulgence of such treats is the primary cause of severe acne in teenagers.

Your teenage daughter may have a very hard time dealing with acne. After all, this is a generation that?s flooded in advertisements that define beauty. Very rarely do you see a teenage model, actress, or singer that shows obvious signs of facial acne. Nevertheless, these famous teenagers are not flawless by any means. With the right amount of lighting and airbrushing, anyone can appear flawless! It?s essential that you remind your teenager of this.

It?s important to inform teenagers that they are still attractive and look wonderful the way they are. By all means, boost the esteem! Never pick at your teenagers appearance, as it will only hurt their self-esteem. If a teenager feels ridiculed and ashamed, they will lash out--or worse withdraw from friends and family. This can lead to depression, which may or may not be temporary.

If your teenager has been facing stress they may become affected by acne. An increase in stress will promote acne amongst people of all ages. Your teenagers body will react to stress by releasing more oils throughout the skin. Which increases the likelihood of receiving acne. In order to keep blemishes at bay, your teenager should wash their face regularly.

Nevertheless, excessive washing with soaps and/or other medicated acne products may dry out the skin. This will result in further skin problems. Your teenager should also drink plenty of water to flush impurities from the body. This too, will reduce the symptoms of teenage acne.

Clearogen.com offers a new treatment for teenage acne that attacks the rot causes of acne instead of the symptoms. Visit Cleaorgen.com

The Skin Care Benefits of Azulene

Azulene is a constituent of the volatile oil obtained by steam distillation from Chamomile, Anthemis nobilis (Roman Chamomile), Achillea millefolium (Yarrow), or Tanacetum anuum (Blue tansy), and it is distinguished by it?s spectacular blue colour. Azulenes are unsaturated blue hydrocarbons, isomers of naphthalene. Chamomile contains a wide variety of active constituents. Each one of these constituents expresses a specific action but the fascinating holistic effect is the result of all of the components working together. The main constituents in the oil from chamomile are alpha-bisabolol and chamazulene, sesquiterpene derivatives. Other beneficial substances are present as well, primarily apigenin and a number of other flavonoids.

Benefits: In clinical studies Azulenes and bisabolol have been shown to exhibit dramatic anti-inflammatory effects and Chamazulene showed significant antioxidant protection. In practical terms this means that application of these natural substances will help to prevent skin blemishes from developing and will help stop deterioration of skin cells that leads to wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation.

Quotes: With a large list of recent basic research accruing, chamomile is a perfect example of a herb having diverse therapeutic uses. Chamomile preparations are widely used in skin care products to reduce cutaneous inflammation and other dermatological diseases. George Nemecz, Ph.D., U.S.Pharmacist/Herbal Pharmacy

Chamomile soothes, heals, combats inflammation and stimulates cell regeneration. German Chamomile is the variety most widely used in skin treatment; it is rich in a fatty substance called azulene which has extraordinary healing, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory powers. Barbara Griggs, author of The Green Witch ? A Modern Woman?s Herbal and Green Pharmacy.

Azulene sensitive skin care products are available from Dermaglow @ http://www.dermaglow.co.uk

Friday, December 26, 2008

Easy Recipe For Clear Skin During Summer Months

Here's a great recipe for a toner/astringent that I love to use every summer- it's especially great for combination skin. It helps clear pores from sweat, dirt, and other ickies, yet still offers some nice moisturizing benefits for a nice glow. It also feels really nice and refreshing!

  • 1/2 cup witch hazel
  • 1/4 cup water (Tea, especially green or chamomile, is even better!)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 5 drops natural vegetable glycerine
  • 5 drops lavender essential oil
  • 2-3 drops peppermint essential oil

Just shake it all up really well in a small bottle. When you're ready to use it, just dab some on a cotton ball and gently wipe your face clean. Couldn't be easier!

You can adjust the essential oils to more or less, depending on your skin type. I find it's best to use in between face washings as a freshening up. I noticed sometimes using a toner or astringent right after washing your face can create an imbalance in skin that can dry it out too much - sometimes within an hour it can retaliate and be more oily than it was before! (Especially during the summer heat!)

Don't forget- sometimes half the fun in homemade beauty recipes is is being creative. If you'd like, don't be afraid to try your own unique variations!

You can visit Lisa Chambers' website at http://www.chambersessentials.com for more free information, recipes, and tips based on natural or crafty point of views.

Information On Boils And How To Treat Them

As boils and acne is a common phenomenon among young people the increasing teen pressure is hard for some to cope with it. There is no need for you to lose heart as many of these are temporary problems which can be easily cured either with home remedies or medication.

It is one of the common skin infections which can range from the severity of a pimple to an abscess. The reason for having boils is mainly due to bacteria. Some people are vulnerable to such bacteria more than the others which can be reason for their problems.

These boils can be really painful which are like lumps and turn red and can be found on all parts of your body. These lumps can be very painful and are filled with pus which is due to the bacteria formed under your skin. Some of these lumps or boils last for a short while and sometimes it may take more than the required time.

It is not necessary that only young people will be affected by the boils. The things you eat also make a lot difference. Spicy, oily and any other junk food, which does not gel well with your body starts affecting your skin. Medicines also cause hormonal changes which give the room for boils and other skin infections.

Sometimes the areas you sweat the most can also be reason for developing boils. So keeping oneself clean and dry can help you out from the problems of boils. Scratching, itching of the boils would spread the infection. So avoid squeezing the pus to stay clear from the diabetes.

If it is too much of a pain you should consult the doctor which would provide you the antibiotics as well as surgery if needed. People with oily skin suffer from such problems as the skin makes itself a very easy target. Even though these are not life threatening but due to this there can be lifelong scar.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on information on common cold as well as on skin infections like boils and acne.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Acne Rosacea Symptoms Causes Treatments

Acne rosacea is a skin condition characterized by reddish discoloration of the facial skin, particularly in the area of the cheeks, forehead and the nose. It is usually found in fair skinned adults, and is often mistaken for acne. The tiny blood vessels under the skin dilate and give the appearance of ?blushing?. While pimples may occur with acne rosacea there are no whiteheads or blackheads. At first the redness may come and go, but if untreated it will continue to worsen, with pimples and permanent flushing of the face. Extreme cases of acne rosacea that have not been treated can lead to disfigurement of the nose and puffy cheeks. Cosmetic surgery is the only way to repair this severe damage. Acne rosacea may also cause a gritty feeling in the eyes that, if not treated, can lead to impaired vision.

Acne rosacea can occur in men or women. Women tend to get acne rosacea more often than men, but men have more severe symptoms than do women.

Causes of Acne Rosacea

One of the most frustrating things about acne rosacea is that there is no known cause. There are many suggestion as to the origins of rosacea such as:

- Emotional factors that cause blushing or flushing of the face may trigger acne rosacea.
- Changes in the weather may cause acne rosacea to occur.
- Sun exposure generally worsens the condition.
- Mites or certain bacteria may cause the initial outbreaks of acne rosacea.
- Some medications for heart conditions that are used a vasodilator may bring about the onset of acne rosacea.

Treatments Available

It is important to remember that acne rosacea is not the same as teenage acne, and will not respond to over the counter acne treatments. These treatments are more likely to further irritate the skin and cause a worsening of the condition.

The most successful treatment of acne rosacea includes:

- A strong oral antibiotic that gradually decreases to a maintenance level.
- A topical cream that is applied regularly to the affected area. This cream usually will contain antibiotics in conjunction with cortisone or a prescription acne mediation.

Things to avoid/moderate

- Minimize skin exposure to the sun.
- Avoid or minimize smoking
- Moderate alcohol consumption
- Avoid spicy foods

As promised - you now know what acne rosacea is, what causes this condition and how it can be treated/controlled.

Mike Singh is the publisher of http://www.stopping-acne-now.com/. On his website, he shows how to cure a pimple and articles about acne causes and treatments.

Rhinoplasty ? The Most Common Of Nose Jobs

There is no denying that the nose is a defining feature on the human face. This brings us to the subject of the most common form of rhinoplasty.

Rhinoplasty ? The Most Common Of Nose Jobs

Besides liposuction, the cosmetic reformation of the nose, known as rhinoplasty, is a hugely popular cosmetic surgical procedure. Many people, both male and female, are unhappy with the look of their nose. Whether it is an inherited flaw or a crooked nose from an accident, plastic surgeons are able to correct abnormalities in your nose and make you feel better about how it looks. This, of course, translates to more confidence on your part.

One of the biggest complaints that plastic surgeons hear from patients is not the size of breasts, butts or stomachs, it is the size and appearance of the tip on the nose. Rhinoplasty is the method used to correct the tip. If you feel that the tip of your nose is too round and full, you may think that it detracts from the rest of your face. Rhinoplasty can work to correct this and refine it so that the tip of your nose looks in proportion to the rest of the nose and therefore, to the rest of your face.

If you have complaints about your nose and rhinoplasty is your choice to correct it, there are different techniques that your plastic surgeon may use. Some doctors choose to use sutures, as they do not require the cutting and removal of any tissue. The tip is literally sewn together to make a skinnier, more refined looking end of the nose. Another technique that your surgeon might use is cephalic resection; where a portion of the cartilage in the tip of the nose is removed to make it smaller and less full looking.

No surgical procedure is without risk, and that includes the various surgical methods of correcting the tip of your nose. Anesthesia will need to be used in these procedures, and there is the risk of bruising, swelling and infection at the incision site, just as there is with any surgical procedure. Be sure to consult thoroughly with your doctor and surgeon before deciding to have any rhinoplasty procedure done.

The only way to correct the tip is rhinoplasty. If you feel that the tip of your nose is really off-balance, and you think that a change in your appearance would make you feel better, speak to a board certified plastic surgeon. They will know the best course of treatment for your nose, and if you will be able to get a more aesthetically pleasing look by having rhinoplasty performed.

Ricardo de Silva is with PlasticSurgeonPractices.com - a directory of plastic surgeons. Visit us to read more plastic surgery articles.

Acne And Carbohydrates Is There A Link?

There has been a lot of speculation about how diet and food intake affects acne. There is a relationship between what we eat and how our skin reacts, although the exact interaction is not clearly understood. All food has properties that are helpful or harmful to our bodies. Most foods have a combination of helpful and harmful components and our bodies are designed to utilize the positive attributes of the food and to eliminate the negative. Sometimes, based on our bodies? ability to process food, there may be changes in chemical and hormonal balances caused by food. Some contributing factors to changes in body metabolism are:

- Change in diet
- Change in climate
- High stress levels
- Natural hormonal changes in the body due to age and development
- Illness and infections within the body

In this article we are going to explore the relationship between carbohydrates and acne.

Carbohydrates

There are low-carbohydrate and high-carbohydrate foods found in the average daily diet. Teenagers and adults who eat a high carbohydrate diet are more prone to acne and outbreaks. Teenagers and adults who eat a lower carbohydrate diet that limits the amount of refined sugars have significantly fewer acne problems and outbreaks. High carbohydrate foods include candies, highly processed foods such as white bread, sugary cereals and fast foods. It is believed by scientists and nutritionists that the high carbohydrate foods trigger a sharp increase in insulin production that in turn triggers hormonal increases leading to oily skin and clogged pores.

Best Diet Choices

If you have acne, we recommend that you try the following changes in your diet (after discussing it with your doctor of course):


- Eat as much natural food as possible such as fruits and vegetables.
- Limit high carbohydrate items and switch to whole grain wheat products.
- Avoid fried foods or foods cooked in oils.
- Drink at least six glasses of water per day.
- Eat high fiber foods. These high fiber foods tend to be generally low carbohydrate foods.
- Avoid any foods that you may be allergic to. Keep a record of what is eaten for a week and see if there is any pattern to outbreaks.

Mike Singh is the publisher of http://www.stopping-acne-now.com/ On his website, he shows how to cure pimples and articles about different types of acne.

Body Massage: The Healing Touch

Most of us experience this feeling of just giving up our fatigued bodies to a masseur who will massage away all the aches and pains caused by physical stress and mental tensions. The pain just seems to vanish out of your system once it is their expert hands. If you keep dreaming about this on your low days, well you are probably not alone for massage is a known stress reliever. Massage at its best has the power to restore the individual physically, mentally and spiritually.

What is a full body massage? How to massage?

Technically, full body massage is a hands-on manipulation of the skin, muscle and joints to relax muscle spasm, relieve tension, improve circulation and hasten elimination of toxins and wastes from the body. Massage is an ancient art. It has been known to be in practice in the Orient for over 3000 years. The expert hand of the masseur not only rubs away fatigue inducing stress but also improves blood circulation in the body. Apart from creating a pleasant sensation on the skin, it also works on the soft tissue (the muscles, tendons and ligaments) to improve muscle tone. Although it mainly affects the muscles just underneath the skin, its benefits may also reach the deeper layers of muscle and possibly even the internal organs.

Massage Therapy: Alternative medicine?

An essential part of alternative medicine, massage has gained popularity in the West too and is widely used to treat a variety of ailments. Different forms of massage include - Acupressure, Athletic Massage, Polarity Massage, Reflexology, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Sports Massage, Swedish Massage, Traeger Massage and Watsu. Aromatherapy massage makes use of aromatic essential oils known for their stress relieving effects. Manipulation of soft tissues affects many of our bodily systems; hence massage therapy stands to help many of the health problems we face today.

General Benefits of Massage

? Soothing relaxation
? Healing
? Eases tension, stiffness and pain
? Improves breathing
? Improves circulation
? Enhances well-being

The therapeutic benefits of massage

? Massage aims to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function.
? Boost immune system function, improve circulation and speed up recovery time.
? Relax tight and tense muscles
? Ease or prevent physical dysfunction and pain.
? Reduces overall stress and fatigue
? Massage therapy is effective in the control of pain - chronic or acute, stress reduction and in creating a sense of soothing relaxation and well-being.
? Massage can be fun and can be wonderfully sensual; it can be an effective tool to revive a sagging sex life. Erotic Thai massages or even simple massages are a great way to begin a night of intimacy.

Full Body Massage helps you relax!

Although even a one odd massage does leave you with a pleasant feeling, the effects of massage are cumulative and undergoing a series or course of massage treatments, is what will give you the maximum benefits. Regular massages strengthen and tones the muscles and boosts the entire body mechanism, so as to prevent unnecessary strains and injuries. Massage has the power to stimulate the nervous system as much as it can relax, hence it can be used, depending on the individual's need.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for some of the most common illnesses and health problems

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Home Remedies From Parsnip

The parsnip has been cultivated in Europe for centuries. It was especially popular before the arrival of the potato and was used as a valuable source of carbohydrate.

Parsnips contain natural sugars which impart a sweet taste to the vegetable. The Elizabethans used parsnips as a sweetmeat with honey and spices as well as serving the root as a vegetable. The carbohydrate in parsnips is stored in the form of natural sugars. This contrasts with the potato where the carbohydrate is 90% starch. Parsnips are considered sweeter than carrots. With almost three quarters of the sugar in parsnips as sucrose, the sugar we extract from sugar cane. By comparison, sucrose accounts for only one third of the sugar in carrots. Sucrose is not at all damaging to health when consumed in its natural form in its parent plant.

Culpeper (1653) writes that 'the garden parsnip nourisheth much and is good and wholesome, but a little windy whereby it is thought to procure bodily lust; but it fatteneth the body if much used. it is good for the stomach and reins (kidneys) and provoketh urine?.

Today we appreciate that the parsnip is not fattening, with a mere 20Kcal per 100g. Compare this to fats and oils at around 900Kcal per 100g.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies by some of the common itmes in house as well as parsnips.

Causes of Acne ? Solution and Acne Control

In order to answer this question, we should first examine different types and causes of acne. It?s important to note that you are not alone in your struggles with acne. Acne is a skin condition which effects millions of people. Acne does not discriminate. It can appear on the faces of the young and old of both sexes of any and every cultural background.

Types of Acne:

Whitehead Acne: As the name suggests, whiteheads are named after their appearance. If your pores are clogged, yet bulge with a white tip - these are whiteheads.

Blackhead Acne: Like the whitehead, a blackhead is named after it?s physical description. If your pores become clogged, yet stay open - a blackhead becomes visible. The top surface of that part of your skin will darken, displaying the rapped dirt in the pore.

Pimple Acne: Sometimes our pore open, leaving them vulnerable to bacteria. Should bacteria, known as sebum, enter - the skin will display a red bump. This is commonly referred to as a pimple.

Nodule: These are clogged pores which are very deep in the skin. These nodules are infected lumps or cysts which can be tender to the touch or very painful.

Causes of Acne:

Hormonal changes in teenagers and adults can cause different types of acne in teenage boys and girls. Statistics show that eight out of ten teenagers display some type of acne during their adolescent years.

While our bodies need some oils, excessive build-up of oils can promote blocked pores, causing whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.

Excessive washing removes all oils from the skin. The face needs some oil to maintain its healthy appearance. Otherwise you become a candidate for dry damaged skin or more acne.

Scrubbing your face is never the solution. Gentle exfoliation is always suggested, but scrubbing is a no-no. The objective is to soothe your face and rid it of acne. Not aggravate the skin and cause yourself pain. Washing your face with water, while healthy for your skin, is unlikely to remedy the issue ? which lies in the buildup of oils in the skin caused by DHT.

Acne Solution:

Finding an acne treatment that attacks the real root cause of acne ? the buildup of oils in the skin which leads to blackheads and attracts bacteria. By reducing the level of DHT in the skin layer, oil production is reduced, thereby eliminating acne creating at the source.

Jen Carter is team member for Clearogen, a new acne treatment created by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr Alex Khadavi, designed to attack the root causes of teenage and adult acne instead of simply addressing the symptoms. Visit http://www.clearogen.com

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

DIY Skin Savers: The Aspirin Mask

What is the aspirin mask? The aspirin mask is a homemade BHA mask available to each and everyone of us, totally inexpensive and highly efficient, made of salicylic acid or tablets of aspirin. BHA is known to help tremendously with cleaning pores from deep inside and therefore contribute to keeping our skin blemish-free. BHAs are efficient on existing blemishes as well, by helping them heal faster and keeping pores clean afterwards.

Indications: all skin types, especially normal to oily and combination skin, acne-prone and clogged skin.

Basic preparation: 1/4 tsp. salicylic acid (ask for it at pharmacy, if you cannot find it, then crush 3-5 tablets of plain aspirin instead), distilled water. Mix the powder with the water until it becomes of a creamy consistence, apply on clean dry skin (focus on T-zone and sides of the nose). Keep it on until completely dry. Take a small cotton pad, wet it lightly and begin scrubbing the areas covered with the mask, making small circles. Finally, rinse with plenty of water. It would be excellent to apply a calming mask or a hydrating mask first, followed by your regular moisturizer. Skin will be left completely smooth and even.

There are practically unlimited versions of this mask. You can add yoghurt for an astringent effect, aloe vera, honey. You can also make the mask using a basic moisturizer mixed with salicylic acid instead of water, as it will be less harsh on the skin and will be more easy to use. Another option is to mix salicylic acid / crushed aspirin into a mask: into a clay mask, a hydrating mask or a soothing mask. My personal favourite is aloe vera mask with a hint of salicylic acid - application is much better, skin is less irritated and dried compared to aspirin with water, the feeling left after this mask is absolutely unique so smooth and clean!

If you use powdered salicylic acid, it is advisable to limit the quantity to 1/4 tsp. for the whole face, too much will burn the skin. If using aspirin tablets, you will probably need somewhere between 3 and 10 tablets depending on the area where you apply it.

Do not apply it near to eye zone, as it would be extremely drying and irritating for the sensitive skin there.

Refrain yourself from over-using it. For very oily skin and for severe blemishes, every 3 days would be more than enough in order not to stress the skin and obtain maximum efficiency. Other skin types should use it once a week or twice a month (dry to very dry, sensitive skin).

Antonia is an independent beauty consultant, editor and publisher of BeautySofa.com - make-up, style and skin care articles and resources online.

Teenage Acne ? Helping to Cope with Skin Acne

Teenagers with acne may feel besieged by the sudden changes in their appearance. Puberty and acne have been known to go hand in hand. As if it?s not already hard enough for your child to see changes in their body, now they?ve been overwhelmed with acne! Unfortunately, teenage acne can severely damage your teenager?s self-esteem.

Male teenagers may feel insecure about their appearance, causing them to withdraw from social activities with the opposite sex. Females, on the other hand may hind behind make-up products such as foundation or concealer. These methods of ?coverage? usually aggravate acne and cause further blemishes.

While acne is generalized as a ?part of growing up,? there are many factors which contribute to teen acne. For instance, a diet which consists of soda, junk food, and greasy foods will invite acne. By all means, your teenager should have fun and snack every now and then. But over-indulgence of such treats is the primary cause of severe acne in teenagers.

Your teenage daughter may have a very hard time dealing with acne. After all, this is a generation that?s flooded in advertisements that define beauty. Very rarely do you see a teenage model, actress, or singer that shows obvious signs of facial acne. Nevertheless, these famous teenagers are not flawless by any means. With the right amount of lighting and airbrushing, anyone can appear flawless! It?s essential that you remind your teenager of this.

It?s important to inform teenagers that they are still attractive and look wonderful the way they are. By all means, boost the esteem! Never pick at your teenagers appearance, as it will only hurt their self-esteem. If a teenager feels ridiculed and ashamed, they will lash out--or worse withdraw from friends and family. This can lead to depression, which may or may not be temporary.

If your teenager has been facing stress they may become affected by acne. An increase in stress will promote acne amongst people of all ages. Your teenagers body will react to stress by releasing more oils throughout the skin. Which increases the likelihood of receiving acne. In order to keep blemishes at bay, your teenager should wash their face regularly.

Nevertheless, excessive washing with soaps and/or other medicated acne products may dry out the skin. This will result in further skin problems. Your teenager should also drink plenty of water to flush impurities from the body. This too, will reduce the symptoms of teenage acne.

Clearogen.com offers a new treatment for teenage acne that attacks the rot causes of acne instead of the symptoms. Visit Cleaorgen.com

Beauty Sleep Is It A Dream?

As women we know that a lack of sleep leaves us irritable; however most of us are unaware of the damage it may be doing to our skin? Besides being an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, getting 8 hours of sleep per night helps improve the texture and the luminosity of our skin. During the night the skin is restored from the harmful effects of daily stress. When we do not get the required sleep our skin suffers. This is especially noticeable in the fragile skin under the eyes. The under eye area is almost fifty percent thinner than the skin on the face. Sleepless nights leaves behind fine lines, dark circles or puffy bags. Cosmetic treatments can soften the effects of sleep deprivation but preventive medicine is the best cure. Eye treatments are limited in their ability and cannot reverse the stress that a lack of sleep will do to the skin.

Sleep experts say that we need 8 hours of sleep per night. However, the latest research shows that women average 6 hours and forty minutes of sleep during the week and 7 hours on the weekend. Besides the extra work that women have to contend with (helping with homework, laundry, cooking, etc.) and the many concerns that keep them from sleep, women are also be kept awake by - small children who wake during the night, teenagers coming home late, aging parents who get up during the night.

What can we do to sleep more peacefully and longer? Here are some hints:

1.Eliminate noise from your bedroom. Bedroom sounds should be low and consistent. Try earplugs.
2.Keep your room dark by using dark fabric on your windows. If that is not possible, try eyeshades.
3.The temperature of the room should be cool.
4.A relaxing bath before you go to bed will induce sleep.
5.Set a schedule to arise, no matter what time you went to bed the night before.
6.Turn your clock so you can't see the time if you wake up in the middle of the night.
7.Keep TV's and computers out of the bedroom, make it a place just for sleep and sex.
8.Get a queen-size mattress if you don't sleep alone. We need room to move.
9.Avoid alcohol before sleeping. While alcohol may help us fall asleep, it will also wake us in the middle of the night.
10.Avoid nicotine before going to bed because it is a stimulant.
11.Don' go to bed hungry or overly full. Have a snack early in the night.
12.Watch your coffee intake. Caffeine from coffee, tea, cola and chocolate can affect you for up to twelve hours.
13. If you fret during the night or if you think of something that you must do the next day, write it down so you can deal with it in the morning.
14.Try natural-fill pillows such as down or feather because they have the most adjustability. If you suffer from back pain put a pillow between your knees for a more comfortable sleep.

Happy Sleeping!!!!!

Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.

9 Steps Toward Nontoxic Health and Beauty

1.Make your own deodorant.

You can make your own deodorant by adding together equal parts of baking soda and cornstarch. This is a wonderful recipe for deodorant, and it works. The baking soda absorbs the odor. The cornstarch absorbs the wetness.

2.Perfumes are not necessarily your friend.

Perfumes can be costly and may contain toxins. Pure essential oils can keep you smelling heavenly. Essential oils have also been proven to have many healing benefits.

3.Read the label.

Sometimes it is as simple as reading the label. Though many labels are purposely misleading, reading the label will help us know whether a product is one that we want to put in or on our bodies. If you see a long list of ingredients, and you don't know what most of them are or what they do, you probably want to avoid that product.

4.Check your kitchen.

The best products for our beauty and health are often in our kitchens. Nature provides wonderful fruits, vegetable, seeds and berries, any of which make the best cosmetics and body-care products. Somehow or other, we have learned to doubt Nature. We feel that we know best. We have gone against the laws of Nature in favor of commercialism.

5.Wash new clothes before you wear them.

The clothes you buy go through many processes and many hands before you buy them yourself. If the garment is washable, please be sure to wash it before you wear it for the first time. This will ensure that excess chemicals, pesticides, dyes and bleaches are removed before it meets your body.

6.Our body is one unit.

We often forget that our body is one unit. Many of us have the idea that it is all right to use toxic products on our hair, for instance. We believe that a product used outside our body will not affect the inside of our body. This is not true. Therefore, if you would not put a product in your body (eat it), please do not put it on your body. The reverse holds true.

7.Less is more.

Many of us have cabinets full of cosmetics and so-called health products. We are bombarded constantly with products that promise to make us healthy, youthful and beautiful. However, the truth is, less is more. Find products with the least amount of ingredients. Single-ingredient products, such as coconut oil, Shea butter or various clays, are superb products. Likewise, an occasional meal that consists only of one nutritious food will give your digestive system a rest.

8.Research.

We spend a great deal of time in researching vacation spots we want to travel to. We will ask in-depth questions about whether the car we're thinking of buying gets good mileage and drives well. However, we spend little time researching the products that we put in and on our bodies. Our bodies are our temples. Learn about your body and the food and products you consume.

9.Talk to your elders.

Many of our ancestors knew the health and beauty secrets of the plants and the earth. Over the years, however, we have been taught to discount their knowledge of health and beauty as old-fashioned. The beauty and health industry would love you to believe this. Do not let our elders take these secrets with them to the grave.

Wambui Bahati Miss Inspiration is a professional speaker and entertainer. Her mission: Reminding you of your magnificence.

http://www.wambui-bahati.com
http://www.inspiration-motivation-celebration.com/

Monday, December 22, 2008

From Ancient China and India: East Meets West in New AntiAging Cream

It is interesting to see how scientists are combining ancient knowledge with the latest scientific breakthroughs to create truly effective anti-aging skin care products.

This article will examine Avon?s Anew Alternative Night Cream, a wonderful combination of modern science and ancient wisdom from the Far East. It combines high-tech tetrapeptides with a unique blend of ancient Eastern herbs to reverse facial sag.

I can personally attest that within one month my chin line was more defined, my skin tone more even and my neck noticeably firmer.

The active ingredients, described in detail below, work to: protect the skin from inflammation caused by viruses, bacteria and fungi; improve circulation to speed repair and invigorate the skin; and control the body?s inflammatory response (as your own hormones did in younger days).

Indian Himalayan Herb Protects

Extracts of the Himalayan neem tree, often called Nature?s drugstore, have been used medicinally for at least 2,500 years. The tree is prized for its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Anew Alternative contains extract of the neem tree?s flower (Malia Azadirachta) to prevent skin inflammation.

Chinese Herb Invigorates

The benefits of Szechuan lovage root extract (Ligusticum Chuanxiong Root Extract) were first documented in the Shennong Bencao Jing published in 500 A.D. (representing a compilation of herbal information believed to be 5,000 years old). The Bencao Jing is the earliest extant Chinese pharmacology tome and is still widely referenced today. Lovage root extract is known to invigorate blood and improve circulation. When applied to the skin, lovage root extract not only speeds healing but also improves skin tone.

Tetrapeptides Control Inflammation and Allow Skin to Heal

Finally Anew Alternative contains palmitoyl tetrapeptide-3. Tetrapeptides actually reverse skin sag by reining in the skin?s inflammatory response.

In our younger years, the inflammatory response is a good thing. It is the body?s way of walling off an injured area and preventing spread of infection. When its work is done, hormones shut off the inflammation.

However, as hormone levels decline with age, inflammation runs rampant. Older, hormone-depleted skin takes longer to heal and eventually doesn?t completely heal at all.

I find it very interesting that once you understand how skin care anti-aging ingredients function, you begin to realize that we are not just talking cosmetics and vanity, but that many such treatments can actually result in a better quality of life.

In the case of Anew Alternative with its combination of ancient herbs and modern tetrapeptides, the result is skin that heals better and is less prone to infection.

As another example, in the case of pentapeptides, the result is thicker skin that forms a stronger barrier against infection. Pentapeptides stimulate the growth of new collagen beneath the surface of the skin and plump out wrinkles from within.

Pretty amazing stuff.

For more on effective skin care, visit http://www.ageless-beauty.com/antiaging-skin-care.html.

Jean Bowler was a ballet dancer and instructor, a teacher, a personal trainer and a cosmetics consultant. She is editor of Ageless Beauty ? http://www.ageless-beauty.com

Wrinkle Buster In Your Kitchen

Many cosmetic companies are capitalizing on on our need to fight the signs of aging. Prices for these miracle concoctions can run as high as $200 for a cream! So what is in these small jars of hope and promise? Looking through the ingredients and deciphering the scientific names, you may discover that some of the ingredients are derived from fruits and vegetables that we regularly buy in the Produce section of our favorite grocer.

A simple fruit, grapes, has been used in anti-aging treatments as an antioxidant and a skin rejuvenator. Seed or Seedless? With Seeds! An added benefit is provided when you use the grapes with seeds. The seeds contain proanthocyanidin which is considered to be a very potent antioxidant. A study shows that grapeseeds can be a potent healer of the skin. In addition to being a potent healer, it also makes a wonderful skin softner as well as improving the skin's texture.

Want an easy way to put grape skin conditioning and healing properties to the test?

Open a white grape and rub the mashed grapes over your face and neck. Leave it on for 15 minutes or until dry and rinse with lukewarm water. Repeat daily. In a week or two, you may be hard pressed to find those tale-tell signs of aging when you consult with your mirror!

Danielle Sims explored her library of alternative health,herbal books, and aromatherapy books and created a blueprint for making her own body wrap formulas at home. For more information visit Danielle's website http://www.wrapyourselfslim.com

Surgical Solutions If the Appearance of Your Ears Bothers You

For many people, the appearance of the ears can be something that generates a lot of self-conscious activity. There are surgical solutions that can let you pursue any haircut you want.

Surgical Solutions If the Appearance of Your Ears Bothers You

Big ears. Pointy ears. Ears sticking out to far. Large earlobes. There are a number of complaints people have about their ears of which these are only a few. At first glance, ear enhancements may seem like a very small percentage of all plastic surgical procedures undertaken. This assumption is entirely incorrect.

The appearance of ones ears can be a major issue for each of us. Our ears are located on the focal point, the head, of our body. They are as much a part of the physical impression we give people as our nose. If you catch people glancing at your ears when they speak to you, you know this is the case. Fortunately, surgical solutions exist and are a very popular procedure in the plastic surgery field.

Medically known as Otoplasty, plastic surgeons perform frequent surgeries to enhance the appearance of patient?s ears. Unlike most plastic surgical procedures, the enhancement is not pre-defined. It depends entirely on the condition of the ears and how the patient is bothered by the condition. The most common complaints are the ears are too large or stick out from the side of the head too much. Otoplasty is a method for dealing with both.

Ear surgery is most often done at a younger age. Given the effect on psychological development and the inherent teasing abilities of other children, this is hardly surprising. This psychological impact is so established that otoplasty is one of the few cosmetic surgeries that health insurance may cover. Obviously, you should check with your insurance carrier to see if this is the case in your situation.

Depending on the situation, ear surgery can take a couple of hours or longer. The exact procedure can?t be described because it depends on the specific condition each patient has. That being said, general anesthesia is often used, but the procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis with no hospitalization required. Recover time is usually a week or so and the changes are permanent.

If your ears are a constant source of aggravation, you need not continue to suffer. Ear enhancement is a fairly common procedure and one that can make a major difference to children and adults.

Ricardo de Silva is with PlasticSurgeonPractices.com - a directory of plastic surgeons. Visit us to read more plastic surgery articles.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Information On Boils And How To Treat Them

As boils and acne is a common phenomenon among young people the increasing teen pressure is hard for some to cope with it. There is no need for you to lose heart as many of these are temporary problems which can be easily cured either with home remedies or medication.

It is one of the common skin infections which can range from the severity of a pimple to an abscess. The reason for having boils is mainly due to bacteria. Some people are vulnerable to such bacteria more than the others which can be reason for their problems.

These boils can be really painful which are like lumps and turn red and can be found on all parts of your body. These lumps can be very painful and are filled with pus which is due to the bacteria formed under your skin. Some of these lumps or boils last for a short while and sometimes it may take more than the required time.

It is not necessary that only young people will be affected by the boils. The things you eat also make a lot difference. Spicy, oily and any other junk food, which does not gel well with your body starts affecting your skin. Medicines also cause hormonal changes which give the room for boils and other skin infections.

Sometimes the areas you sweat the most can also be reason for developing boils. So keeping oneself clean and dry can help you out from the problems of boils. Scratching, itching of the boils would spread the infection. So avoid squeezing the pus to stay clear from the diabetes.

If it is too much of a pain you should consult the doctor which would provide you the antibiotics as well as surgery if needed. People with oily skin suffer from such problems as the skin makes itself a very easy target. Even though these are not life threatening but due to this there can be lifelong scar.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on information on common cold as well as on skin infections like boils and acne.

SkinCare or SkinPoison?

Your skin is a living organ. It breaths, drinks and carries topically applied substances through to the rest of your body. Caring for your skin is like eating. We have become very concerned about what we eat in recent years - this is very good. But, an idea that is only beginning to bloom is that you eat through your skin too. What do you want your body to eat? This question needs to be considered when choosing your skincare and bath products.

Currently, the personal care industry has no regulation. This is very unnerving, especially when the FDA Office of Cosmetics and Colors states that ?a cosmetic manufacturer may use almost any raw material as a cosmetic ingredient and market the product without an approval from the FDA?

Manufacturers are allowed to twist their claims, by exaggerating or even outright lying. With this slack industry, it becomes nearly impossible for the consumer to know for sure what they are getting. Labels like ?organic?, ?cruelty-free? and ?hypo-allergenic? can have little to no meaning. Manufacturers can even hide behind an organic label without disclosing all of their chemical ingredients.

The Environmental Protection Agency states that 89% of 10,500 ingredients commonly used in personal care have not been adequately evaluated for safety. Among these ingredients are carcinogens, penetration enhancers, allergens and harmful impurities that can cause cancer, inhibit fetal growth, cause nerve damage, disrupt hormones and cause other severe reactions.

So what?s a pampering bath loving soul to do? Educate yourself, read labels, shop from companies who have signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics (that?s us, close to the bottom of the list), and keep your eyes out for our next personal care article.

Ivy Mills has been researching chemical sensitivity and natural alternatives for over five years and has brought her knowledge to the marketplace in her company, Valhalla Essences. Her personal experiences have fed a passion to help others with the same problem. Ivy welcomes others to share their stories and experiences on her blog, Peaceful Power.

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Body Massage: The Healing Touch

Most of us experience this feeling of just giving up our fatigued bodies to a masseur who will massage away all the aches and pains caused by physical stress and mental tensions. The pain just seems to vanish out of your system once it is their expert hands. If you keep dreaming about this on your low days, well you are probably not alone for massage is a known stress reliever. Massage at its best has the power to restore the individual physically, mentally and spiritually.

What is a full body massage? How to massage?

Technically, full body massage is a hands-on manipulation of the skin, muscle and joints to relax muscle spasm, relieve tension, improve circulation and hasten elimination of toxins and wastes from the body. Massage is an ancient art. It has been known to be in practice in the Orient for over 3000 years. The expert hand of the masseur not only rubs away fatigue inducing stress but also improves blood circulation in the body. Apart from creating a pleasant sensation on the skin, it also works on the soft tissue (the muscles, tendons and ligaments) to improve muscle tone. Although it mainly affects the muscles just underneath the skin, its benefits may also reach the deeper layers of muscle and possibly even the internal organs.

Massage Therapy: Alternative medicine?

An essential part of alternative medicine, massage has gained popularity in the West too and is widely used to treat a variety of ailments. Different forms of massage include - Acupressure, Athletic Massage, Polarity Massage, Reflexology, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Sports Massage, Swedish Massage, Traeger Massage and Watsu. Aromatherapy massage makes use of aromatic essential oils known for their stress relieving effects. Manipulation of soft tissues affects many of our bodily systems; hence massage therapy stands to help many of the health problems we face today.

General Benefits of Massage

? Soothing relaxation
? Healing
? Eases tension, stiffness and pain
? Improves breathing
? Improves circulation
? Enhances well-being

The therapeutic benefits of massage

? Massage aims to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function.
? Boost immune system function, improve circulation and speed up recovery time.
? Relax tight and tense muscles
? Ease or prevent physical dysfunction and pain.
? Reduces overall stress and fatigue
? Massage therapy is effective in the control of pain - chronic or acute, stress reduction and in creating a sense of soothing relaxation and well-being.
? Massage can be fun and can be wonderfully sensual; it can be an effective tool to revive a sagging sex life. Erotic Thai massages or even simple massages are a great way to begin a night of intimacy.

Full Body Massage helps you relax!

Although even a one odd massage does leave you with a pleasant feeling, the effects of massage are cumulative and undergoing a series or course of massage treatments, is what will give you the maximum benefits. Regular massages strengthen and tones the muscles and boosts the entire body mechanism, so as to prevent unnecessary strains and injuries. Massage has the power to stimulate the nervous system as much as it can relax, hence it can be used, depending on the individual's need.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for some of the most common illnesses and health problems

The Secrets of Becoming More Beautiful

Like every organ in your body, our skin requires adequate nutrition to function properly. Nutrients that enhance overall body health will also promote healthy skin and hair. It needs pharmaceutical-grade supplements that provide advanced levels of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and cofactors in convenient morning and evening packets for a difference you will see and feel.

The skin contains natural enzymes that break down the extracellular matrix--proteins that keep skin looking youthful--leading to lines and wrinkles. And, these enzymes, or MMPs, become more active as skin ages. MMP inhibitors that reduce the activity of these enzymes help slow the signs of aging. A new scientific breakthrough increases cell turnover rate and maintains a firm and elastic intercellular matrix for visible results you will see right away.

The skin reflects the state of the body's health and looks its best when all cells in the skin's layers are properly nourished and hydrated. The skin is the last organ to receive nutrients from the body, and the first to show signs of nutritional deficiency, imbalance, or illness. While some nutrients can be applied topically, others can only be produced from within the body. Therefore, the secrets to becoming more beautiful comes from a synergy of internal and external nutrition, as well as protection from environmental toxins and oxidation damage, which can accelerate sagging and wrinkling.

To achieve this synergy of internal and external nutrition and a protection from environmental toxins and oxidation damage, you need to develop a beauty regimen that is designed to be a comprehensive approach to skin and hair care that takes into account the nutritional needs of both the skin and body. You would need to use outer nutrients that hydrate and reduce the signs of aging. This regimen is most effective when used in conjunction with pharmaceutical-grade supplements that help to replenish and nourish the skin cells from the inside out.

To achieve a results-oriented, morning and evening regimen designed to leave skin clean, hydrated, and healthy, begin with a deep cleanse followed by a soothing toning treatment that will leave your skin refreshed. Follow with an application of one of our powerful refining treatments to help diminish the appearance of uneven skin tone, imperfections, and signs of aging. Finish with a deeply hydrating moisturizer for your face and eye area to achieve a soft, smooth appearance.

Two to three times a week, enhance the benefits of this simple skin-care regimen by exfoliating your skin with a gentle polishing scrub, followed by a luxurious, pampering masque that will leave your skin incredibly hydrated and radiant.

When used together as a system, products are clinically proven to increase elasticity, decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve texture, and boost skin's moisture levels. In just a few short weeks you could experience dramatically visible results.

Because of the close link between nutrition and the appearance of the skin, dietary supplements are also an important step in your daily inner and outer beauty regimen. Skin is the body's largest organ and it can absorb healthy and unhealthy substances that are applied to it. Pharmaceutical-grade products focus primarily on the cellular health of the skin and use the newest technologies available to create products that are both effective and safe. Pharmaceutical-grade complexes should be thoroughly tested by dermatologists, allergists, and ophthalmologists to ensure quality and safety. To ensure safety and quality, an independent, third-party laboratory should test them again to demonstrate effectiveness. Along with added trace minerals that encourage healthy cells, pharmaceutical-grade products should contain powerful ingredients that are clinically proven to nourish, revive, and refine the skin as they help defend against free radicals and oxidative stress.

Now the science of skin care has been revolutionized with groundbreaking, self-preserving technology. For years, scientists have worked to find an alternative to parabens, the traditional preservative used in beauty and skin-care products. After nearly ten years of research, the answer has been found in a unique, patent-pending blend of botanicals, antioxidants, and active ingredients that keep every product fresh without the need for parabens. It truly is the next generation of skin and body care.

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PERMISSION TO REPUBLISH: This article may be republished in newsletters and on web sites provided attribution is provided to the author, and it appears with the included copyright, resource box and live web site link. Email notice of intent to publish is appreciated but not required. Mail to: eagibbs@ureach.com

Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, Management Consultant and Trainer, conducts seminars, lectures, and writes articles on his theme: ... helping you maximize your potential. He offers a free health survey at http://eagibbs.usana.com; free state tourism guides at http://www.ExecutiveAndGroupTravel.com; and travel updates at http://www.executiveandgrouptravel.blogspot.com. Reach him at eagibbs@ureach.com or at 502-386-1175.

Reds Pinks or Peach for Your Lips and Cheeks

When it comes to cheek color, the question I seem to get asked the most is, ?Exactly, what color should I be wearing?? That?s simple. Just pinch your cheeks gently, you?ll find that your cheeks will become flushed with a subtle hue. This is your natural blushing color, which you should attempt to match.

Others are not quite sure where to put their cheek color, in round circles on the apples of the cheeks or in a line of color up towards the temples? Once again, let?s revert back to nature to answer this question. Gently and with clean hands, press your fingers against your cheek area and find your cheek bone. Follow with your finger from the apple of your cheek (the puffy part that appears when you smile) and back towards your ear. This is where you will apply your cheek color. Be sure to blend?blend ladies blend! Use a large cheek color brush to avoid strong lines of color. If you do not have a large, fluffy brush, simply use your fingers or even a cotton ball. Just let nature be your guide.

When it comes to lips, try to stay within the same color family as your cheek color, just vary the color intensity for different looks. Don?t be afraid to be a little bold, your lips are the one area on your face where you can afford to play around with color. Intensity is the brightness or dullness of a color. You can lower the intensity by adding a lip gloss, making the color itself seem lighter or darker. Many cosmetics companies have made it easy for you to choose lipstick within a color family by grouping them as reds, pinks, chocolates, neutrals and so on. Generally, the darker your skin tone, the deeper the intensity of color you can wear. Your natural blush color will tell you where to start, you decide the intensity of color based on your comfort zone. It?s as simple as that.

Have a great day!

Dawn Hull
Professional Skin Care Consultant
http://www.MaryKay.com/ShopOnline

Sign up to receive a FREE monthly beauty newsletter: Beaut-e-News - Discover what's new, what's now ? what's changing the face of makeup and skin care! You'll find beauty secrets revealed and tips and techniques that will help you look your beautiful best. Click here to register: http://www.marykay.com/PWS/MyMK/Login.aspx?Moniker=SHOPONLINE

Friday, December 19, 2008

Teenage Acne ? Helping to Cope with Skin Acne

Teenagers with acne may feel besieged by the sudden changes in their appearance. Puberty and acne have been known to go hand in hand. As if it?s not already hard enough for your child to see changes in their body, now they?ve been overwhelmed with acne! Unfortunately, teenage acne can severely damage your teenager?s self-esteem.

Male teenagers may feel insecure about their appearance, causing them to withdraw from social activities with the opposite sex. Females, on the other hand may hind behind make-up products such as foundation or concealer. These methods of ?coverage? usually aggravate acne and cause further blemishes.

While acne is generalized as a ?part of growing up,? there are many factors which contribute to teen acne. For instance, a diet which consists of soda, junk food, and greasy foods will invite acne. By all means, your teenager should have fun and snack every now and then. But over-indulgence of such treats is the primary cause of severe acne in teenagers.

Your teenage daughter may have a very hard time dealing with acne. After all, this is a generation that?s flooded in advertisements that define beauty. Very rarely do you see a teenage model, actress, or singer that shows obvious signs of facial acne. Nevertheless, these famous teenagers are not flawless by any means. With the right amount of lighting and airbrushing, anyone can appear flawless! It?s essential that you remind your teenager of this.

It?s important to inform teenagers that they are still attractive and look wonderful the way they are. By all means, boost the esteem! Never pick at your teenagers appearance, as it will only hurt their self-esteem. If a teenager feels ridiculed and ashamed, they will lash out--or worse withdraw from friends and family. This can lead to depression, which may or may not be temporary.

If your teenager has been facing stress they may become affected by acne. An increase in stress will promote acne amongst people of all ages. Your teenagers body will react to stress by releasing more oils throughout the skin. Which increases the likelihood of receiving acne. In order to keep blemishes at bay, your teenager should wash their face regularly.

Nevertheless, excessive washing with soaps and/or other medicated acne products may dry out the skin. This will result in further skin problems. Your teenager should also drink plenty of water to flush impurities from the body. This too, will reduce the symptoms of teenage acne.

Clearogen.com offers a new treatment for teenage acne that attacks the rot causes of acne instead of the symptoms. Visit Cleaorgen.com

Acne Not Just A Pimple

It was known that acne was basically caused when the pores are choked by sebum. These sebum oils which in the normal context would drain to the surface get blocked and bacteria start to grow. These bacterial formations could be termed as whiteheads and blackheads. Whiteheads are formed when the bacteria and sebum are trapped below the skin surface. In the same manner blackheads are formed when the trapped sebum and bacteria are slightly open to the surface and turn black due to the melanin, the skin pigment.

The most common type of acne is the acne vulgaris and the other types of acnes are known as comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, cysts. Acne is formed also due to the hormonal changes which are very common during puberty. During the developing years the hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands which makes excess sebum and with this sebum there is clogging of the pores which leads to acne. It can also happen during pregnancies when the mother goes through hormonal changes. After a period of time, may be by the time one reaches twenties, acne disappears. Other reason for developing acne is by eating oily and greasy food. Too much of aerated water as well as chocolates can be harmful for the skin.

It is also believed that another factor which causes acne is heredity or genes. As these genes are passed on from the parents to the child the conditions of acne are also passed on from the parents. In many cases school aged boys and girls have acne problems as it is part of their family history. Use of various numbers of drugs also causes such problems. Make-up which has not been cleaned properly leads to creation of acne. It has affected people of the age-group of 12-24 which would sum up most of the adolescent and teenage years of the person.

A change in hormonal patterns in adolescent girls as well as adult women leads to acne. For some it starts before the menstrual cycle and acne starts showing up on your face or any other part of the body. Constant rubbing and squeezing can lead to some of the worse forms of it. Tight sweaty clothes and many environmental changes also lead to acne. Skin itching, burning, steroids also cause acne.

The proper skin care would mean a total no-no for all the acnes in the world. Healthy eating and exercise helps in maintaining the body and to give glowing skin. It is recommended that people with acne should use a gentle cleanser and avoid all the strong soaps and rough scrub pads. Avoiding sunburn and suntan may be temporary benefits. Excessive exposure to sun is not good which might lead to other problems like dryness of skin as well as skin cancer. If you are using cosmetics, see to it that you use the proper ones so as to not to accelerate the level of acne. There are ingredients used in it which may be harmful and should be checked before using it.

If the acne you have is very chronic then you should get treated by dermatologists who can help you clear all the acne. The extremely severe cases are the ones which are taken to the dermatologists. The treatment would help in taking out the scars and lesions and prevent new lesions from forming. The treatment would help in removing the bacteria which is settled under the skin. This would not be needed if proper skin care is taken. The unwanted use of hormonal pills, maybe from steroids to increase your weight is not needed.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for some of the acne related problems