The History of Beauty - An Overview

By Kathy Murdock

4-inch lotus feet. Lead-based face makeup. Hairlines plucked to create a longer forehead. Though these may sound like acts from the Circus of Beauty Shop of Horrors, they were all considered common beauty rituals at some point in history. So then just what, you ask, is beautiful? Dictionary.com defines beautiful as having qualities that give great pleasure or satisfaction to see, hear or think about. Sounds simple enough, but that vague explanation doesn't tell us what physical beautify really is, and it certainly doesn't account for the passing beauty trends have followed (and at times I would have to say stalked, hunted down and maimed) people throughout history.

When Beauty Becomes Hazardous to Your Health

If you'd been born a woman in Ancient China, chances are your forefront foot bones would have been broken, bent and then tied into place, so that over time your feet would have stopped growing and morphed into a dainty 4-inch lotus-like appendages. Foot binding was a custom practised on young females in China, beginning in the 10th century and ending in the early 20th century.

Think that's scary? During the Elizabethan era, upper-class women covered their skin with Lead-based makeup, often resuting in peripheral neuropathy, gout, anemia, chronic renal failure, and disfiguring scarring. Can you say toxic? The same women also plucked their frontal hairs to lengthen the size of their forehead because, you guessed it, high foreheads were a turn on.

Beauty trends have come and gone, although, sometimes to our dismay, certain trends have crept back in again. Take Twiggy. As thin as a stick, hence her name, Twiggy would have been considered an anomaly in the age of antiquity, when women were round and supple. But in the 60s, her ultra-thin frame was all the rage. Society finally frowned upon skin and bones, so women put a little meat on their frames until the 90s, when heroin-chic took over and the emaciated look became popular once again.

Where do Beauty Trends Come From?

Ginger Garrett, author of Beauty Secrets of the Bible, believes religion has played a key role in setting beauty trends throughout history.

Ancient Greeks and Romans mixed religion and body image with sex. "When husbands went to church, they had sex with the temple prostitute; for them sex was so much at the forefront of the culture and religion and their gods and goddesses had beautiful bodies," says Garrett. In these times, the focus of beauty was more on the males than the females, as women were rarely encouraged to speak. "Men were supposed to have muscles, and be powerful, like their gods. Women's ideal shape was heavier than our idea type today, but not obese. It was a very natural standard, with generous hips and belly and relatively small breasts compared to our ideal."

Christianity caught on, explains Garrett, and suddenly society stopped celebrating the body and began covering it up. A movement called the Gnostics, which taught a hatred of the body, followed. The Greek/Roman worship rituals and their focus on the body was considered evil by the Gnostics, and so they began to teach that everything physical was evil and that beauty was sin. At this time, women were considered child bearers, and wide hips and curves were thought to be attractive on a female because they denoted fertility.

If what Garrett writes about is true, then it appears that Hollywood is the Religion of choice these days. What people see in the tabloids or on the big screen, from Ashlee Simpson's new nose to Nicole Richie's skeletal frame, unarguably influence a person's own sense of self when he or she looks in the mirror. And unless you live in a cave, it's impossible not to notice that most actresses who achieve overnight stardom slim down before their first awards ceremony, then land a cover spread on Maxim or People so the rest of the world can read about their extreme makeover. And as long as Britney Spears and Paris Hilton are considered more "newsworthy" than the war in Iraq, Hollywood will continue to set the beauty standard for the rest of us common folks, regardless of how unrealistic that standard may be.

But isn't there something more . . .

While few would argue that society and religion have been influential when it comes to defining beautiful, neither tells us why millions of people from varying cultures or religions find Brad Pitt (or Jessica Alba, or you insert the star) attractive. The answer might be found in the form of a mathematical ratio.

Beauty is Math

In general, the human face is symmetrical. When we look for a mate, or when we observe someone that we find attractive, we are actually looking for symmetry in that person's facial features, even if only on a subconscious level. Of course, some faces are more symmetrical than others, and this, some believe, could be one of the keys to pinpointing a beautiful face.

The idea of a connection between beauty and mathematics has spanned centuries. The Pythagorean school believed that objects that were proportioned to the golden ratio were more attractive than those that were not. The Golden Ratio is based on sequences of numbers known as Fibonacci numbers and is alternatively known as phi. This ratio can be found in architecture and nature, and many believe that it can also be found in the angles of the human face-or at least, the angles in a beautiful human face.

Dr. Paul S. Nassif, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with Spalding Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, has studied the idea of beauty and its relation to angles and uses this idea in part when assessing a patient for a plastic surgery procedure. "We use facial analysis as a basis for all surgery, " says Nassif, "but we have to use our aesthetic eye as the final answer."

Angles and Lines

Dr. Nassif has written about facial analysis and its use in plastic surgery as well as how it can influence what we find beautiful. To analyze the face, you first break it down into sections. The vertical area of the face is divided into five equal parts while the height of the face is divided into three equal areas, from the hairline to the eyebrows, from the eyebrows to the bottom of the nose and from the bottom of the nose to the chin. Once these divisions have been made, facial areas, such as the eyes and the lips, can be analyzed mathematically.

Where'd you get those peepers?

Everyone knows that you can't beat a pair of sexy eyes, but just what makes those peepers so attractive? On women, the upper eyelid should cover a small portion of the iris without covering the pupil, while the lower eyelid should be about 1-2 millimeters from the iris. These measurements will help to create a more symmetrical look. Eva Longoria's eyes follow this pattern of symmetry, as do Kate Hudson's.

Pucker Up

Say the word lips in Hollywood, or anywhere else for that matter, and chances are the first face to pop in your mind is that of Angelina Jolie. There is good reason for that: Angelina's lower lip is about twice the size of her upper lip, giving her a perfectly balanced pucker. Perhaps that's why patients undergoing plastic surgery on the lips often request to have them done like Angelina's.

The Nose Knows

When it comes to noses, the length from the forehead to the nose should be approximately 115 to 130 degrees on both men and women, while the area from the bottom of the nose to the edge of the lips should range from 90-95 degrees on men and 95-110 degrees on women. Two celebrities with great noses include Brad Pitt and Brooke Shields.

And What if my face isn't symmetrical?

So you may be staring in your mirror contemplating the lines and angles of your face and feeling sad that, well, they just don't add up to perfection. If so, don't fret: Clairol conducted a survey called What is Beauty and found that, according to participants, one specific definition of beauty did no exist. Celebrities from Julia Roberts to Rosie O'Donnell took home votes, with 53% of participants stating that personality makes a person beautiful and 43% of people voting for self-confidence.

So if your angles are off and your lines just don't add up, don't fret. Rather than crying over your golden ratio gone bad, keep your chin up and remember that trends in beauty will come and go (and probably return again), so that at some point during your lifetime what you were born with will probably be considered beautiful, even if it hasn't caught on just yet.

Kathy Murdock owns Kinetic Solutions, a marketing company located in Orange County, California, that provides graphic and writing services to new and emerging companies. She wrote "The History of Beauty" that you can check out at http://www.body-philosophy.net

In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my family, traveling, reading, kayaking, and running. I finished my first half marathon last year and hope to complete several more before doing a complete marathon when I turn forty.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Murdock

Skin Care for Dry Skin

by: debra

The number of people with skin problems has been increasing in recent years. Moreover, there is a notable increase in people who admit to having sensitive and dry skin. There is a bit of difficulty finding a scientific definition for "sensitive skin" as there are many differing, measurable criteria for its definition. However, normal skin can develop a higher sensitivity when exposed to the following stimuli : sunburn; heavy skin-peeling; occupationally-related above normal exposure to water, alkalis and solvents, internal illnesses such as the increased skin dryness seen in age-related diabetes or the general itching that can accompany kidney diseases and psychological factors like stress.

Dry skin is especially common in children under 10 and older people over 60. Between 10 to 50 years of age, the number of women with dry skin is markedly more than in the case of men. The common characteristic of dry skin are light scaling, tightness and sometimes, itching. Basically, there are two types of dry skin - normal dry skin and extreme dry skin. In both types, the cause is essentially a deficit of natural moisturizing factors. A rarer form is atopic dry skin, in which a disturbed fatty acid metabolism of the skin contribute a major role.

Cleaning and Care of Dry Skin

To restore your dry skin to its normal physiological condition, pay extra close attention to your cleansing and skincare routine. In choosing cleansing products for dry skin, here are few pointers to bear in mind :

* Make sure the cleansing preparations are made up of mild cleansing complexes with re-oiling agents that remove fat-soluble (lipophilic) dirt particles.
* The cleansing substances' supply of lipids should promote and ensure an intensive replenishing of skin oils.
* The fatty-acid constituents of the re-oiling agents should also be similar to the skin's natural oils to blend especially well into the horny skin layer, thereby restoring the protective lipid film during washing and helping to maintain your skin's natural pH balance.

Choosing Skin Care Products

It is important to choose skincare products that contain various active ingredients that reinforce the skin's own protective functions. Here are pointers and ingredients to watch our for :

* For example, skincare products that contain the antioxidant Vitamin E are effective in preventing, or at the very least, delaying skin aging. Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that hinders the oxidation of poly-unsaturated fatty acids, thus helping to firm up the cell membrane and delay cell-aging.
* Choose skincare products that protect the skin from damaging environmental influences such as dryness and colds. Where the skin condition has been disturbed, choose skincare products that contain moisturizing agents and substance that will help normalize the skin, heal it and prevent diseases. For example, as a Vitamin B derivative, Dexpanthenol is said to enhance wound healing and cell-formation. Vitamin C in citric acid form is also a popular skincare substance that is used mainly because it helps in wound-healing and cell regenerations.
* Those with especially sensitive-skin or skin affected by neurodermatitis should choose skincare products suitable for deodorant-intolerant skin.
* The skincare products' efficacy should have been objectively and comprehensively evaluated and the confirmed in clinical studies.

Healthy skin, for the most part, results from a balance of moisture and oils and the physiological pH-value (acid mantle of the skin around 4.5 - 5.75) of the skin's surface. Always remember to choose cleansing and skincare products that are quickly absorbed into the skin and activate the various regenerating metabolic processes of the skin cells.

Causes of Dry Skin :

* Biological skin ageing
* Chemical and medicinal influences
* Climate and environment
* Genetic disposition
* Hormonal influences
* Illness
* Light-induced skin ageing
* Nutrition

Article Source: http://articles-4-free.com

TAKE ACTION FOR SAFE COSMETICS

By: Steve Reed

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics is working to convince cosmetics companies to phase out toxic chemicals and make cleaner, greener, healthier products for all of us. Vashon Organics has signed the Safe Cosmetics Pact and is working to ensure our children will not face (pun intended) the same list of risky ingredients that most of us face today.

Vashon Organics is working to make a difference as a distributor and manufacturer of safe and effective personal care products. You can make a difference by helping promote safer products and smarter laws to protect our health – and the health of future generations -- from the use of toxic chemicals in personal care products.

You don’t have to be a business to affect change. As an individual, you can visit the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics by clicking on this link: http://www.safecosmetics.org/action/. Simply sign the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics petition and then sign up for updates. Join the action network. Tell your friends and help spread awareness of the need to clean up our cosmetics. You can host a Healthy Cosmetics Party, or request an Action Kit that includes fact sheets, leaflets, posters, and other resources to help get the word out.

If you are a member of an organization, you can endorse the Campaign by becoming a signatory. You can sign up for updates, join the action network, and include information about the Safe Cosmetics Campaign in your newsletter (just as you see Vashon Organics is doing here),. You can encourage other groups or organizations to become signatories too. You can encourage your members to contact their cosmetic and personal care products companies and ask them to endorse the Campaign as well. Or you can visit www.vashonorganics.com for more information.

Above all, read the ingredients in all your cosmetic and personal care products. Become familiar with those ingredients that may be detrimental to your health. Use only products that are either organic or natural in content and that do not contain questionable ingredients. Take action first in your own home and help others to become knowledgeable about the health risks we all face if we don’t bother to look at the ingredients.

Article Source: http://articleaddict.com

Make-Up for Acne – The Art of Safe Disguise

By: Sarah Cannon

It’s Friday night and you have a big date. You should be eagerly looking forward to the night’s festivities but instead you want to crawl under the covers and hide. Why? You’ve got acne. Don’t panic! You certainly can’t cure your acne before your date arrives but you can use make-up to safely disguise your pimples if you know how.

To hide the acne you will need three basic tools: concealer, foundation and finishing powder. You only want to hide the acne, not make it worse. Since part of the reason you have the acne in the first place is excess oil, make sure you choose make-up that is oil free and, if possible, non-comedogenic. If your skin is particularly sensitive, a hypoallergenic make-up would be a good additional feature. Carefully match the make-up to your own skin tone.

It is always important to test any new make-up product before fully using it. This is especially true for acne sufferers. Apply a small amount of the make-up behind your ear or under your jaw and let it sit for an hour or so. If your skin begins to register a reaction, don’t use the make-up.

Before using make-up to hide acne, gently clean your face with a cleansing cream. Do not scrub your face. This will only irritate the acne making it harder to hide and more likely to spread or even scar. Pat your face dry. Apply any acne medication that you may be using according to the instructions on the product or from your dermatologist. Let the medication dry completely.

Using a fresh, disposable make-up sponge, apply the concealer in a light dabbing fashion directly on the areas affected by acne. It is imperative that you use a new sponge and dispose of it afterward. This will help prevent the acne from spreading. Never allow your make-up source such as a concealer stick to actually touch your skin. The concealer should be applied sparingly, not slathered on like plaster.

Foundation is next and it should also be applied sparingly. Use another cosmetic sponge and spread the foundation evenly gently blending the foundation and the concealer. Once that thin layer dries you can reapply the foundation for further coverage as needed.

Now for the final touches! Using a large make-up brush, apply an oil free powder over your face. This will ensure a light, even layer of make-up and hide any unevenness left by the concealer or foundation.

Congratulations! You have a natural, acne-free look without waiting for your face to clear up. Forget about the acne and have a wonderful time. One last thing to remember, before you go to sleep gently cleanse your face of all make-up and reapply your acne medication if instructions permit.

Article Source: http://articleaddict.com

Change Your Life With Cosmetic Dentistry

By: Ron Mark

It is well known that an attractive smile can bring you a lot of benefits and surveys have proved it also. You are more likely to be accepted for an important job if you have a straight and shiny smile than if you have yellow and untidy teeth. Yellow teeth may also cause your employer to believe that you are an inveterate smoker, becoming another disadvantage in your way to success. This is the reason for the fact that, nowadays, more and more people see cosmetic dentistry as the solution to most of their problems.

From teeth whitening to different types of tooth veneers, the dentist holds the key to your smile. However, although people are aware of the fact that fixing their teeth can help their life, the fear with which people think of a dentist still exists. This is why many doctors have decided to change their clients’ perception of a dental checkup. They have started to offer free consultations, which is quite a good method to attract clients and convince them that going to the dentist isn’t that bad. Dental Day Spas have also started to spread. These Spas offer to patients different fun ways to relax before or even while the dentist takes care of their teeth and are equipped with the latest technologies. One example would be the procedure “zoom whitening” - the fastest type of teeth whitening that exists till now.

Cosmetic dentistry involves many procedures, but the most popular of all is teeth whitening. This is due to the increasing number of smokers and coffee lovers as well as to the fact that it is slightly less expensive and faster than other procedures. On the other hand, it can have its disadvantages also causing your teeth to become more sensitive and your gums mildly irritated. However, those who are willing to take a risk might be interested in the fact that overall there are 2 types of whitening options: at-home, with the help of dentifrices (whitening toothpastes) and over-the-counter whitening gels, strips and many more - a less riskier solution, and in-office which can be done only with the help of a dentist.

The latest teeth whitening option refers to laser bleaching. It lasts for an hour and consists in a laser light applied in a cycle to activate the bleaching solution that the dentist has previously applied on your teeth. As dentists say, with this type of cosmetic dentistry, your teeth can get up to ten shades whiter.

Many people don’t know if they should choose at-home techniques and do everything on their own or solve their problems with the help of cosmetic dentistry. This decision can be made only if you go for a checkup. Nothing should be done without an expert’s opinion. A dentist will help you find the cause of your problem, the exact shade of your teeth and the type of intervention that best suits you.

Cosmetic dentistry, however, doesn’t involve only the bleaching of teeth. Actually, whitening procedures represent only a small part of this amazing dentistry art. Maybe you have a missing tooth; implants are the solution. Maybe you have buck or crooked teeth; then braces can straighten them out. Cosmetic dentistry can be used not only to repair, but also to redesign. You can change your whole smile and implicitly your life and appearance just with a visit to your dentist.

For those who are afraid that teeth whitening could make their teeth more sensitive, there is another option: veneers. Veneers are a thin shell of porcelain that covers your teeth, so if you don’t like the color of your smile you can opt for this kind of treatment with confidence. So stop wasting time! Stop making a habit from covering your smile with your hands whenever you speak or laugh! Why live with this complex when you can go for a teeth whitening procedure or to an orthodontic treatment and gain a bundle of confidence? Whatever is your problem, cosmetic dentistry has its solution.

By visiting our website you will not only find out advice about teeth whitening options, but about cosmetic dentistry in general. You can learn a lot about how to make your teeth good looking and your smile an attractive one.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Antiaging Skin Care Treatments

By: Tony Scott

Anti-aging skin care treatments are not just for older women. Constant sun exposure, airborne dirt particles and other toxic elements in the environment create skin damage at younger ages. Smart women begin using antiaging skin care treatments before there is a visible need.

One woman's wrinkle is another woman's laugh line. Regardless of how you view wrinkles, you can choose antiaging products that keep the skin supple and healthy. A side benefit of this goal is that these treatments soften wrinkles to give a more youthful appearance.

The difficult part of searching for antiaging skin care treatments is how to find the best products that you can afford that are suited to your skin type. Pay careful attention to the label on the product. First, determine if your skin is dry, oily or normal. Women with oily skin have battled this for years and know their skin type. Confusion is more likely to occur in deciding whether your skin is dry or normal. Even normal skin can seem dry if you spend long hours indoors, fly frequently or work in a dry air environment.

Department stores, discount stores and drug stores have literally hundreds of antiaging skin care treatments. Simplify your shopping by focusing only on the ones for your skin type and never purchase anything that is not made for your skin type. Read the labels carefully. Many choices of moisturizers and liquid foundations contain SPF for protection from ultraviolet rays of the sun. SPF cannot reverse damage already done but its still worthwhile to prevent further skin damage that can become skin cancer. The higher the SPF number, the higher the protection. For example, an SPF of 45 means that your skin can tolerate 45 times the normal exposure time to sun before skin damage begins. Antiaging skin care products need to have at least SPF 20 and 30 to 45 is better.

The label also reveals the type of emollients and moisturizing factors used in the product. These chemicals may be synthetic or organic. Typical ingredients in antiaging skin care products are lanolin, collagen, mineral oils, elastin, amino acids and glycerin. These ingredients are combined in formulas unique to each product with the goal of improving skin at the cellular level. If the product is 100% organic, the label will also give the certification authority validating the purity of the product. Sensitive skin may benefit from using organic anti-aging products, which usually cost more than synthetic formulas.

Antiaging skin care treatments also contain vitamins such as Vitamin A, C or E and some tea extracts. These vitamins and extracts work on the free radical damage that is so harmful to skin. Vitamins are so important to skin health that some antiaging skin care treatment systems also include vitamins to take daily as well as the vitamin enhanced skin care products to apply to the face. With this approach, the skin health is supported on two levels. Healthy skin is youthful and attractive at any age.

Fora refreshingly different look at skin care, and skin care products, and recipes for home made skin care, visit - http://www.cleansing-skincare.com Cleansing Skin Care

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An Introduction To Perfumes And Colognes

By: Mick

The word perfume is from a Latin phrase meaning “through smoke” and was thought to have been invented by the ancient Egyptians who burned fragrant woods and plants for their pleasant odors. Over the years perfume has been used, refined and enhanced by every major civilization and today perfume as we know it is a very big business.

Today’s modern perfume has three main components:

The scent – Virtually anything natural or synthetic that has an odor can be used in the making of perfume. Typically scents are made from flowers, citrus, spices, woods and sometimes even leather.

The fixative – These ingredients act to stabilize the aromatic compound and help to make the scent last longer.

The solvent – This is usually alcohol and keeps bacteria from forming and helps maintain an even consistency so it can be easily applied.

The category a fragrance belongs to is defined by how much of the scent (or aromatic compound) is used in the product. This also plays a factor in determining the price as the higher the concentration of scent the more expensive the fragrance will be:

Lotions and aftershaves generally have a 1 to 2% scent base

Eau de Cologne products are generally 2 to 3% pure scent

Eau de Toilettes run between 5 to 20% scent

Eau de Parfums will have from 10 to 30% aromatic compound in them

Perfume Extract or Parfum has the greatest concentration of scent, between 20 and 40%

Women’s products are usually categorized as perfume, eau de parfum, toilet water, and cologne and for men’s products are sold as perfume, cologne, and aftershave.

Surprisingly fragrances and music share a common term, notes. Perfumes are often described by the different “notes” that make up the scent. These notes are designed to emerge at different times during the scent span of a fragrance just as an orchestra will have different instruments playing throughout a musical composition.

Top Notes are the strongest scents but do not last very long. This is the initial burst of smell you get when you first take a sniff of your favorite perfume or cologne. The top notes are often spice or citrus based.

Middle (or heart notes) makes up the main part of the scent that emerges after the top notes start to fade away and are usually softer and mellower than the initial scent. These scents are usually floral in nature.

Bass notes form the foundation of the scent and are usually deep and musky in nature and emerge to blend with the middle notes not to replace them.
Fragrances are very complex products that go through many stages of development before reaching the consumer. There are tens of thousands of different perfumes and colognes available today, each one having its own unique scent signature and what once was reserved for the wealthy and privileged is now available to everyone.

Article Source: http://articleaddict.com

What is Acne?

by : Jack Smith
Acne is an eruptive skin disease. It is essentially a disorder of the sebaceous glands around hair follicles. Sebaceous glands secrete sebum, a substance made up of fat and fragments of dead fat producing cells. The purpose of sebum is to act as a protector of skin and hair, by waterproofing it, to keep it from becoming dry and brittle. However, when these glands are over active, excessive sebum combines with the naturally occurring dead skin, dust and dirt surrounding the hair follicle and blocks the follicle. The blocked follicle is an ideal environment for skin bacteria to proliferate uninhibitedly. As a result, the skin around the follicle becomes inflamed, forming black heads, or visible cysts which we can observe as acne.

The most common form of acne is called ‘acne vulgaris’ which literally translates into common acne. Acne is most commonly found on the face, chest, shoulders and upper arms. Acne lesions can be characterized into two types – inflammatory and non-inflammatory. The former manifests itself in three types of comedones, or blocked pores which become inflamed due to the bacterial clogging – papules, pustules and cysts. These are most likely to leave unsightly scares and marks on the skin. The non inflammatory acne is seen in the form of black heads and whiteheads.

Although acne vulgaris commonly inflicts adolescents, it can also occur in adults. In puberty, acne occurs as an abnormal response of the male hormone testosterone, which stimulates excessive production of sebum. In most cases acne does not last beyond puberty. However, in the cases of adults it may continue to manifest itself even till the age of thirty, after which is may diminish or decrease. One cannot predict how long acne will affect an individual – some people have been known to suffer from this problem for decades, well into their thirties and forties.

Acne affects a large number of people at some stage of their lives, mostly in their teens. In fact it is so common that it is considered part of growing up! Research suggests that at least 85% of people experience acne in some form in their teens. The impact of acne is not only physical – it also affects its sufferers at a psychological level, causing depression, self-esteem issues and social embarrassment.

Article Source: http://articles-4-free.com

Top Five Best Natural Acne Treatments

by : Steve Adair
Who hasn't encountered the dreaded ""zit"" at some point in their life making acne one of the most common of all skin disorders. Acne is a common eruption of the hair follicles and oil-producing glands of the skin. Acne usually is found on the face, neck, and upper body. Pimples and blackheads are caused by the increase in hormones adolescence or before a woman's period and by bacterial infections of the skin.

Waste and toxins are eliminated by the skin through sweat pores. Thus, constipation or irregular bowel movements worsen the problem and need to corrected in acne treatment.

While there no one ""best acne treatment"" the following are the top five natural acne treatments which should be considered by anyone seeking an acne solution.

1. Supplements and Vitamins for Acne Treatment

Zinc – 50 milligrams, 2 times per day. If Zinc Picolinate is used (due to superior absorption) 50 milligrams is taken only once a day.

Vitamin A – 100,000 Units per day for 2 months. Excess Vitamin A be toxic to the liver and needs to be used under a physician's supervision. Pregnant women (or women who may become pregnant) should not take more than 10,000 Units per day.

Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) – topical gel, containing 4% Niacinamide, applied twice per day.

Vitamin B6 – 100 milligrams per day, especially if acne is associated with the menstrual period.

Vitamin C – 1,000 milligrams, 4 times a day. Reduce dosage if diarrhea occurs.

Vitamin E – 600 Units per day.

Pantothenic Acid - 2.5 grams, four times per day, orally. In research, this has been used together with a topical cream containing 20% Pantothenic acid which was applied four to six times per day.

Deodorized garlic, 10 to 16 capsules per day, depending on the severity of the acne and until symptoms improve. Reduce this dosage gradually, over a 3-week period, to 4 capsules per day.

Evening Primrose oil or Linseed oil – 2 capsules per day.

Most of these supplements can be taken in a multivitamin tablet and extra Vitamin A and Zinc.

2. Proper Diet as an Acne Solution

Increase fruits and vegetables in the diet. Eat at least 2 pieces of fruit and 1 cup of vegetables daily.

Eliminate sugar and sugar containing foods because sugar increases the fats that are secreted by the sebaceous glands. These are the glands that are infected by bacteria when a person has acne.

Limit junk foods, fatty foods, fried foods, and milk products. All these foods tend to aggravate acne.

3 The Herbal Acne Remedy

A tea can be made from equal parts of Oregon Grape Root, Dandelion Root, and Burdock Root. Brew 1 teaspoon of this mixture per cup of boiling water. Simmer 5 minutes, then steep for 15 minutes. Up to 6 cups per day for 12 days are taken, or less if nausea or an upset stomach occurs.

A tea of Vitex has often been considered useful, especially when premenstrual symptoms and hormonal imbalances are involved.

4. Physical Treatments in Acne Care

Exposing the skin to sunshine and fresh air or to the light of a tanning lamp, but not long enough to burn the skin. Overexposure to tanning lights may increase the risk of skin cancer.

5. Homeotherapy Acne Skin Care Products

Silica 6C and Hepar sulph 6C: Each day, 3 pellets of Silica in the early morning and afternoon and 3 pellets of Hepar sulph at noon time and in the evening. The pellets are dissolved under the tongue.

Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be effective acne treatment solutions. A health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct acne medicine.

Article Source: http://articles-4-free.com

Natural Health And Beauty - The Truth About Vitamin E

by : Rebecca Prescott
Whilst skin care products generally won't deliver nutrients deep into the actual living cells beneath the superficial layers of the skin, the vitamin E in many products is actually useful. Scientists have found that by applying antioxidants to the skin, free radical damage that would normally occur through exposure to UV light (say, from the sun), can be prevented or at least minimized. Vitamin E is a popular ingredient in many skin care creams.

The scientists found that the protective effects of vitamin E from that period of UV exposure were apparent 2 and 3 days later. The group of people who had vitamin E cream applied to their skin had less signs of inflammation than the group who were given the lotion without vitamin E. Inflammation is a sign of cell damage, and was measured in this study by the amount of blood flow to that area as compared to normal. This was a placebo controlled, double blind study, which means that some people received the lotion with vitamin E, some didn't and neither group knew which it was getting. The conclusions these scientists made were that vitamin E was effective at preventing the visible signs of aging on skin.

Whilst vitamin E in creams and lotions will benefit the skin, there is strong doubt on whether it can help in some of the beauty products it is in. For example, when vitamin E is advertised as being of benefit to strengthen or thicken eyelashes, this is something of a misnomer, and is not supported by science. Paula Begoun, the 'cosmetic cop' writes that there isn't a product out there that will strengthen and thicken eyelashes. The best you can do in this instance is to apply an eyelash primer and mascara to make eyelashes appear thicker. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and the research verifies only benefits that relate to this antioxidant activity.

Another of the promises associated with vitamin E creams is that it helps to heal scars. This is not something that has been verified scientifically. Research quoted in Wikipedia found that when vitamin E was applied to patients who had undergone surgery, it did not reduce the size, shape, or color of scars. In fact, up to one third of patients experienced complications like allergies, dermatitis, and irritation that in fact can make a forming scar worse. Activated manuka honey is a much better option in reducing scarring, and healing skin.

Vitamin E remains an excellent antioxidant. It is helpful when taken as a supplement for a whole host of issues, including protecting the liver, and minimizing the damage smoking does. And it is great for the skin in terms of preventing sun damage from the oxidizing effect of UV light. It is a good 'beauty vitamin' when taken as a supplement. Erica Angyal describes how it protects cell membranes from damage and helps maintain their flexibility, which can diminish as we age. It also works to increase the level of vitamin A in our body. And it is very beneficial for skin problems like acne and psoriasis. She recommends taking 400 to 800 IU of vitamin E a day, to prevent premature aging and improve the lustre of skin.

References:
cosmeticsdesign.com/news/ng.asp?id=62583

Microdermabrasion - Skin Improvement Technologies

by : Barney Garcia
Microdermabrasion is a ventilation technique for the skin that helps repair facial tissue that has perhaps taken a beating from the sun and other effects of aging. A plastic surgeon will perform this technique and will use a device that is not unlike a fine sandblaster to spray tiny crystals over the face. They will then mix gentle abrasion with suction to remove the dead and outer layer of skin. As with other skin renewal procedures, more than one session may be required in order to reduce and remove fine wrinkles and/or unwanted pigmentation.

Microdermabrasion is a good choice for skin improvement technologies because there are virtually no side effects. The benefits however, include the following: it gives the skin an overall fresh and healthy-looking glow, it is non surgical which means it is a safe, effective and quick procedure. Microdermabrasion is effective on all skin colors and types, and there is no anesthetic required. It is also ]excellent for skin that may be sensitive to other chemical procedures because this is such a gentle technique. Unlike with complicated cosmetic surgeries, there is no “rest” period involved, therefore normal activities can begin at once.

There are several things that you should consider before going ahead with this procedure however. It might be cost consuming since you will most likely need multiple sessions in order to see results and to maintenance them. The best results occur on patients with pale or fair skin tone will show best results, so if you are darker in pigmentation, you should consult with a professional first. As well as these important considerations, after the treatment, your Doctor or Surgeon might want to recommend an individualized skin care program in order to maximize results, which might prove to be costly or not time efficient enough for your lifestyle.

If you do decide that Microdermabrasion is right for you, congratulations. There are many skin problems that this procedure can help, reduce or cure such as signs of prematurely aging skin including fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, acne, acne scarring, and enlarged pores. Microdermabrasion gets rid of dull, lackluster skin which gives you a more youthful appearance.

Some people should not use Microdermabrasion process so make sure you let your doctor know if you have or have had in the past any of the following conditions. Undiagnosed lesions, herpes outbreaks, warts, stage 3 or 4 acne, rosacea, unstable diabetes, or any autoimmune disorders.

Article Source: http://articles-4-free.com

Hormones and Your Skin

by : Ben
When skin care products fail to clear up your acne problems, it is an indication that they could be a result of hormonal imbalances. Below are some general guidelines on how to tell if your complexion problems are hormonal:

* You experience acne breakouts the week before your period, mostly on the jaw line, chin and neck.
* Irregular periods and/or excess hair on the face or body in addition to acne could signal a hormonal disorder. Consult your doctor.
* Your skin tends to feel much more sensitive during the fourth week of your monthly menstrual cycle.

Keeping skin acne free requires more than just diligent skincare. It is also a matter of timing your skin care according to your monthly hormonal surges. That is because monthly hormone fluctuations stimulate the skin’s sebaceous glands to secrete oil. The more oil our skin produces, the higher the possibility that acne problems will arise.

THE HORMONAL CYCLE 101

Your cycle begins on the first day of your period and can last anywhere from 21 to 40 days. In the first week after your period, your oestrogen level increases, helping to keep skin clear (oestrogen is the hormone that helps keep oil glands in check). When ovulation occurs around day 14 of your cycle, progesterone (another hormone) starts to surge and your potential for acne blemishes increases and peaks, just days before your period. That is when you will experience oily skin and acne breakouts.

WEEK-BY-WEEK SKINCARE

Week 1 (The cycle begins on the first day of your period)

WHAT’S HAPPENING: Hormone levels are at their monthly low. Skin may appear dull or it could be recovering from premenstrual acne flare-ups.

WHAT YOUR SKIN NEEDS: Regular and gentle care.

* Use mild cleansers that contain soothing ingredients like Aloe, Chamomile or Green Tea. While washing, massage your face gently with the pads of your fingertips.

* Concealers are your skin’s best friends this week. Choose an oil-free one that contains Salicylic Acid or Sulphur, which can help to unclog pores.

* Treat skin to a moisturizing or exfoliating mask. Left on for 10 minutes, an exfoliating mask will remove any flakiness on the skin and have skin lightening effects on a dull complexion. The moisturizing element will provide much needed extra skin hydration.

* Treat lingering acne scars and blemishes with acne treatment products that contain Salicylic Acid or Tea Tree Oil.

TIP: Do not skimp on your moisturizer. Hydrate your skin regularly and choose moisturizers that are oil-free or comedogenic.

Week 2 (The week after your period)

WHAT’S HAPPENING: As oestrogen levels are rising, your skin condition is at its peak with a clear and balanced complexion.

WHAT YOUR SKIN NEEDS: Maintenance and prevention

* For most skin types, ranging from normal to combination skin, this is a good time for professional pampering. Since your skin is not overly sensitive, you can get a simple gentle facial done.

* If you have very sensitive skin, do not go for facials as this may have the effects of over-stimulating your sensitive skin and cause further problems. Opt for a simple regimen that consists of a mild cleanser, sunscreen, moisturizer and a good acne treatment product (if you still experience acne breakouts during this week).

* Keep using the same mild cleansers you used in Week 1 and make sure that you keep your skin clean and fresh by washing your face twice a day. There is no need to carry out excessive cleansing as this may strip your skin of its natural sebum.

* Exfoliate your skin with exfoliating products that contain skin sloughers like Glycolic acid, Lactic acid or Salicylic Acid. However, if your skin is extremely sensitive, you should avoid using such exfoliating products as they may further sensitize your skin.

TIP: Always remove make-up before going to bed. Sleeping with your make-up on can cause pores to clog and trigger acne breakouts.

Week 3 (Ovulation)

WHAT’S HAPPENING: While your oestrogen levels peak, progesterone surges. These hormonal fluctuations cause oily skin flare-ups and acne breakouts.

WHAT YOUR SKIN NEEDS: Acne blemishes battling treatments and moderate exfoliation.

* Keep skin clean and fresh by washing your face twice a day with a mild cleanser, in the morning and in the night. Use an alcohol-free toner to deep-cleanse your pores.

* During other times, cleanse skin by using water only. Water is the natural healer for skin and can calm your skin without stripping your skin of its natural sebum.

* During Week 3 and Week 4, bring oil-blotting pads with you to mop up excess oil for a matte complexion.

* Pamper your skin with products that prevent acne scars and blemishes. They usually contain Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Chlorhexidine and Tea Tree Oil.

* Use an acne clearing mask this week. For normal skin users, the mask can be used 2 times a week, while sensitive skin users should only use it once a week.

TIP: Resist the urge to squeeze your pimples. Apply a warm washcloth to the pimples for several minutes and follow with an antibacterial Benzoyl-Peroxide or Chlorhexidine product.

Week 4 (The week before your period)

WHAT’S HAPPENING: Your oestrogen plummets while progesterone continues to surge. Your skin is at its oiliest, and painful pimples, bumps or acne cysts flare up.

WHAT YOUR SKIN NEEDS: Tender, loving care.

* Keep skin clean and fresh by washing your face twice a day with a mild cleanser, in the morning and in the night.

* During other times, cleanse skin by using water only. Water is the natural healer for skin and can calm your skin without stripping your skin of its natural sebum.

* Treat your acne scars and blemishes with spot treatments, in the morning and in the night.

* Declog your pores by using an acne mask at least twice this week. Sensitive skin users should only use an acne mask once a week.

* Look for foundations that contain Salicylic Acid, which will help clear pores. Also make sure that your make-up is labeled non-comedogenic so that it would not clog pores.

* Stay away from any sort of skin trauma this week. No waxing, laser treatments, microdermabrasion and facials. You are bound to experience extra discomfort on the acne affected areas if you do.

TIP: If the acne affected areas show no improvement and seem to be getting worse, you should immediately consult a dermatologist who can prescribe topical acne medication or oral antibiotics.

Article Source: http://articles-4-free.com

Help! I've got White Spots

by:Debra
Fungal infections of the human body are very common, and are often quite bothersome. One such example is a condition known as tinea versicolor, a superficial yeast infection that produces white spots on the skin that are difficult to remove.

How do I get it?

Pityrosporum orbiculare, the yeast that causes tinea versicolor, is present in small numbers on normal skin; regular washing rids the skin of dead skin cells as well as excess yeast. But it can grow in great amounts – during the summer months when humidity sky-rockets or when a person's immune system is weakened – and interfere with the normal pigmentation of the skin; resulting in unsightly spots in both light and dark colors.

Teens and young adults, regardless of skin color, are the usual victims of tinea versicolor, and those with oily skin may be more prone to it than those with dry skin. In tropical countries, where humidity and temperature are persistently elevated, people of all ages can suffer from these spots all throughout the year.

What are the symptoms?

Flat spots that range in color from white to pink to tan and brown appear over the upper arms, chest, back, neck and face. They vary greatly in size, from as small as four to five millimeters in diameter to large areas of confluence. Scaling may not be readily evident, but scales may easily be obtained by scraping the affected areas. A mild itch may be present, particularly if a person is sweating or feels hot. When the spots involve the neck or face, it can be very disconcerting.

What can I do about it?

If you think you have white spots or any discolorations of the skin, see a dermatologist. The appearance of the skin is often all that is required to clinch a diagnosis, but microscopic examination of the fine scales can be performed if necessary. When viewed under a special light or chemical preparation, the presence of the yeast can be confirmed.

How it is treated?

Tinea versicolor responds to either topical or oral forms of treatment. Topical antifungal creams, ointments, or shampoos – containing selenium sulfide, keteconazole, zinc-pyrithrone, imidazole, or other medications – applied directly to affected areas once or twice daily have proven effective. Sulfur soap and salicyclic acid have also been used to rid skin of the yeast. Oral antifungals have been used to treat tinea versicolor resistant to topical applications. In both topical and oral forms of treatment, however, restoration of skin color should be expected several months after yeast has been destroyed. Consult your dermatologist before using any of these medications.

Recurrence is common and medicated cleansers may be needed to prevent relapses. Ask your dermatologist about them. To discourage overgrowth of fungus, keep skin dry and wear thin, loose clothing.

Article Source: http://articles-4-free.com

Is Botox Right for You?

By : Heather Colman

Botulin toxin, sold commercially under the brand name Botox, is an exceptionally potent neurotoxin that has found a variety of remarkable uses in modern medicine. It is also the most popular nonsurgical medical cosmetic treatment in the UK and USA.

Researchers discovered in the 1950s that injecting overactive muscles with minute quantities of botulinum toxin type A decreased muscle activity by blocking the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, thereby rendering the muscle unable to contract for a period of 4 to 6 months.

Alan Scott, a San Francisco ophthalmologist, first applied tiny doses of the toxin in a medicinal sense to treat crossed eyes and uncontrollable blinking, but a partner was needed to gain regulatory approval to market his discovery as a drug. Allergan, Inc., a small pharmaceutical company that focused on prescription eye therapies and contact lens products, bought the rights to the drug in 1988 and quickly received FDA approval in 1989. Allergan renamed the drug Botox.

Cosmetic benefits of Botox were quickly realized when the frown lines between the eyebrows appeared to soften following treatment for eye muscle disorders. The increased potential of Botox as a cosmetic treatment led to clinical trials and subsequent FDA approval in April 2002.

Currently, Botox is finding enormous additional potential in several therapeutic areas including the treatment of migraine headaches, cervical dystonia (a neuromuscular disorder involving the head and neck), blepharospasm (involuntary contraction of the eye muscles), and severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Other uses of botulinum toxin type A that are widely known but not approved by FDA include urinary incontinence, anal fissure, spastic disorders associated with injury or disease of the central nervous system including trauma, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or cerebral palsy and focal dystonias affecting the limbs, face, jaw, or vocal cords. It is also used off label for the treatment of TMJ, but a side effect in some patients is a jaw left too weak to chew solid food for about 3 months after the injection.

Treatment and prevention of chronic headache and chronic musculoskeletal pain are emerging uses for botulinum toxin type A. In addition, there is evidence that Botox may aid in weight loss by increasing the gastric emptying time.

As an alternative to Botox, anti-aging creams are heavily marketed and advertised on television, with the promise of looking younger and the reduction in visible wrinkles on the skin.

Traditionally, they have been targeted towards women, but products specifically targeting men are now common. This change may be due to the fact that many societies in recent years have seen an increased focus on young looks, including in men. Some men report that looking younger makes it easier to get a good job.

There are a range of cosmetic 'treatments' for the appearance of wrinkles on the skin such as plastic surgery and botox injections. One of the marketed advantages of anti-aging cream is that it is an alternative to these more extreme cosmetic treatments.

Critics take the view that the manufacturers of these products prey on the fears of women, and that the advertisements abuse science by claiming that their products are scientifically proven to work. It is said that the 'scientific data' is based on the perception of women who have tried the product, and are asked whether or not they think they look younger. These are the hallmarks of a placebo.

However, it is plausible that some of the anti-aging products could have a rejuvenating effect, as promised. However, the effects of most anti-aging products likely depends on their concentration and mode of application, making their effects less certain.

Article Source: http://articles-4-free.com

This article is Copyright © 2006, Heather Colman. Permission is granted to reprint this article as long as no changes are made, and this entire resource box is included. Find more Botox resources at ebookpalace.com

Naked Minerals - The Newest Perfect Face

By: Samantha steiner

If you're like me, you apply makeup every day, rain or shine. But is all this makeup actually good for your skin? Absolutely not, say some experts, who note that traditional makeup contains substances that clog the pores, cause rashes and irritation, and lead to problems with pH balance and oiliness.

Don't worry, it's not necessary to face the world without makeup! You just need to pick a different product. Dermatologists have recently come up with something amazing. By utilizing naked minerals, all the benefits of makeup are possible, without the drawbacks of more traditional types of makeup.

You may not be sure what exactly naked minerals are. They are simply what the name says they are- 100% pure natural minerals, specially formulated and ground into a powder. They provide sheer cover that looks great without the artificial chemicals that can irritate your skin.

In a recent study conducted by renowned dermatologist Judith Rawlson, naked minerals ranked first out of nearly three hundred other products. The sheer cover mineral foundation received Rawlson's maximum tribute. She observed that the sheer cover make up, without causing any irritation or oiliness, hid blemishes perfectly to provide skin with a smooth and natural look.

An additional benefit is that naked minerals are worthwhile. Initially they cost slightly more than conventional makeup but since they contain no fillers naked minerals are a great deal more concentrated. As a result, they will last four times longer than other makeup since you will use less of them. Additionally, you will never have to waste makeup due to reapplication, as they will last the whole day. Only one application in the morning and you are done for the rest of the day.

Sheer minerals make excellent makeup for you, whether you are looking for cosmetics that will improve your skin's overall appearance, avoid potential allergic reactions that can occur with regular makeup, or cover minor skin blemishes. Sheer minerals are more natural than any other makeup on the market and are actually good for your skin.

Substances in traditional makeup can cause numerous skin problems""clogged pores, rashes, skin irritation, pH imbalance, and oiliness. However, there are now makeups made using naked minerals instead of artificial ingredients. A recent study by a leading dermatologist ranked naked mineral makeup first amongst 300 products. The dermatologist praised the sheer cover mineral foundation as a beautiful and effective makeup that causes no irritation or oiliness. Sheer mineral products are slightly more expensive than conventional makeups, but it lasts four times longer""it's much more concentrated, so you can skip re-application and use less overall. Skip traditional makeups, sheer cover make up will naturally promote beautiful and healthy skin.

Ph Balance Is An Important Consideration For Active Poeple

Active people who cycle, run, hike, play tennis, golf, build muscle up, or do anything physical and want to perform at peak levels of fitness, have a choice to make. It's a choice many never consider, but one of the most important choices for overall health and fitness. It stares you right in the face every time you eat or drink anything. The choice to consider is whether or not a food or beverage is going to help you maintain proper Ph balance, or is it going to throw that delicate balance off and leave you vulnerable to health challenges.

In order to maintain suitable Ph balance, nutrition experts suggest 80% of dietary intake should be alkaline and 20% acidic. The alkalinity or acidic properties of a food or beverage come into play when your body burns them for fuel. Consuming too many acidic foods, drugs, tobacco, sodas, cocktails, or coffee cause the Ph level of the blood to become overly acidic, therefore, out of balance. Too much alkaline food can also throw the body out of balance, but not many people have that problem.

Most people have this alkaline/acid ratio upside down, which means the body has to find something with enough alkalinity to correct the acid/alkaline imbalance. A human being's blood Ph level is meant to stay at 7.4, so the body is constantly working to maintain that level, no matter what you consume. If you are forcing your body to work harder in order to preserve that Ph level, how hard can it work for you when you are in the middle of physical activities? If the body has to neutralize more acid than it is designed for, where do you think it always finds a readily available supply of something with enough alkalinity to do that? The answer is, your bones. When the consumption of alkaline food and drinks is insufficient to do the job, then the body has to pull calcium from bones in order to neutralize excess acid in the bloodstream.

It is a nutrition fact that over indulgence in acid forming foods and beverages such as meat, coffee, alcohol, sugar, dairy, and refined flour products can cause a body's Ph balance to be overly acidic. This can lead to all sorts of health problems, not the least of which is bone weakness. A calcium supplement may help. However, if the calcium is not from a whole food source, the body does not absorb it as efficiently due to the lack of live enzymes, but more about that in a future article. The best whole food sources for calcium are broccoli, green leafy vegetables, and other alkaline foods.

Here is a short list of foods that are acidic when the body burns them for fuel:
·White flour, refined sugars
·Dairy products
·Meat, fish
·Peanut butter
·Chocolate
·Nuts (not all of them, but most).
·Plums, prunes and cranberries (surprising, but true, even some healthy fruits and vegetables can form an acid ash, especially over- cooked vegetables)

Here are some good choices for alkaline food to help maintain proper Ph balance:
·Almonds, Apples, Avocados
·Bananas, Beans, Brazil nuts
·Broccoli, Cantaloupe, Carrots

Ph balance is just one of many considerations when choosing a healthy balanced diet. Search the Internet for more alkaline food options and other choices for improving and maintaining overall health and fitness.

Sunscreen & Sunblock

By S_smith
But Seriously! What's the Difference Between Sunscreen or Sunblock?

But Seriously! What's the difference between Sunscreen or Sunblock?
Is a sunscreen just another name for a sunblock? No. We mistakenly use these words interchangeably but sunscreens and sunblocks are not the same.

Sunscreen and sunblock work differently from each other:

Sunscreen
-absorbs UV rays
-is transparent on the skin
-breaks down and needs to be reapplied
-uses PABA, avenobenzone, octocylene, salicylates, cinnamates
-blocks UVA

Sunblock
-reflects UV rays
-is more opaque (newer sunblocks are transparent)
-does not break down
-uses titanium dioxide and zinc oxide
-blocks both UVA and UVB

Some products contain both a sunblock and a sunscreen. It's the UVA and UVB rays that cause skin cancer and sun burn. Products labeled broad spectrum have ingredients that block a broad range of UV rays.

If you are concerned about wrinkles the best thing your can do is use a good sunblock as sun damage is the main cause of aging. Wear a sunblock of at least SPF 15-30 every day. A good sunblock is neither sticky or greasy and can be worn alone or under make-up. If the moisturizer and make-up you already use does not contain sunblock it is best to add a skin care product with sun blocking ingredients to your daily regimen.

Good preventive skin care like using a sunblock and staying out of the sun is your best bet for avoiding wrinkles. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, staying happy and hydrated also have benefits for the skin. It is good to be aware of the ingredients in the products you use and how they work on the skin.

Su Smith is a product reviewer and writes about skin care