Let us learn some true facts about our skin

Most of us are not aware of the term skin care and the first thing that comes to our mind when we think of skin care is about different products that are available in the market. Well, the phrase skin care itself means taking care of your skin. Now, how you take care of your skin is a different thing altogether. You need to know your skin type, little knowledge about skin care and other factors that you need to determine for keeping your skin healthy.

What is the role of your skin?

Your skin protects your internal body as it forms an outer covering for your body. Our skin becomes a layer of protection between the environment outside and internal parts of our body. One can say it acts as a waterproof to protect us from pollution or other harmful factors that can harm our body directly. Our skin plays an important role in removing toxins from our body through perspiration and regulates our body temperature.

This is how our skin performs some important functions to protect our body. It is our responsibility to take very good care of our skin without exposing it to harmful chemical based skin care products. To keep your skin healthy you can follow some skin care principles that can help you take care of your skin perfectly.

Basic principles of Skin Care

Drinking plenty of water:  Drinking plenty of water (2 litres every day) to keep your skin hydrated is highly recommended. Our metabolism requires at least 2 litres of water every day to function normally. If you engage in physical activity, the requirement of water increases as you sweat a lot during strenuous physical activity. If you are using expensive moisturizer and not drinking plenty of water, it will not work for you, as without drinking enough water you remain dehydrated and any of the beauty treatments won’t work for you.

Eating Nutritious food: Eating nutritious food like grains, lean meat, vegetables etc., can help your skin get the nutrients required to function properly. Our skin needs vitamins, amino acids, minerals and some gentle skin care products, but you cannot get a substitute for nutritious food.

Daily skin care: A skin care routine needs to be followed on a daily basis in order to remove dead cells, dirt from your skin. You also need to unclog skin pores and provide essential nourishment to your skin. Your skin needs to breathe properly in order to remain healthy and glowing. To help your skin breathe removing dead cells from your skin is necessary as it promotes normal blood circulation to the skin providing your skin with oxygen.

Follow the basic principles of skin care can help your skin remain healthy and glowing. Well, who wouldn’t like to look younger than his/her age?

Well, the skin needs proper care on a daily basis and we can carry out a daily skin care regime on our own. Using natural skin care products or herbal skin care products is always more effective than using chemical based commercial product as they contain toxic chemicals, which can harm your skin in the long run. Let us look at the steps involved in daily skin care regime, which can help you get a clear skin.

Cleansing

This is the most important part of skin care regime to be carried out on a daily basis. Cleansing helps in giving you a youthful, vibrant and healthy skin. Cleansing improves the quality of your skin and radiance leaving a younger looking skin. Cleansing should be done in the morning and during night time to eliminate the impurities, skin oils and make-up. Cleansing done on a regular basis helps your skin breathe normally. Making cleansing the important part of your regime will be of great help. You can use a facial cleanser for cleansing.

Toning

Toning is equally important for a healthy skin. Nowadays most women omit this step out of their skin care regime, but this step is as important as cleansing or moisturizing your skin. Toning takes just a single minute or two and should be included in skin care regime. After spending some time, to clean your skin to make it dirt, oil and make-up free it is the time to tone your skin gently.

You can buy a quality toner to rinse off the dead skin cells thoroughly. Toning helps in removing the residues left after cleansing. Secondly, it helps in closing the skin pores to prevent loss of moisture. Toning also provides essential nutrients and helps in restoring the pH balance of the skin. Now don’t you think it is worth spending two minutes toning your skin?

Moisturising

The third important part of daily skin care regime is moisturizing your skin which should be done in the morning and during the night. You can use day crème for moisturizing in day time and night crème while going to bed to keep your skin moisturized. The moisturiser protects your skin from environmental damage, supplies essential nutrients and prevents the skin from losing moisture and slows down the aging process.

Taking some time out from your daily routine can help you care for your skin and get beautiful skin.

Well, buying natural or organic products is one option that can help you use best and harmless skin care products. If you want adopt more natural way to treat your skin, you can create find some best skin care products in your kitchen itself. Yes it is true that your kitchen has some best skin care products that can help your skin glow and look healthy.  We will help you learn some homemade skin care recipes that you can prepare on your own with the help of products available in your kitchen.

Lemon Exfoliator

Cut a lemon in half and extract the juice. You can keep the lemon halves for rubbing your elbows, heels and knees. Mix the lemon juice with ½ to 2/3 cups granulated sugar. Rub this mixture on your whole body while having shower. Rinse your body after you finish rubbing and try to avoid applying it near your eyes.

Facial Cleanser

Blend the roll oats (one cup) in a blender. Blend it till the flakes become soft. Make sure that you do not blend it to make fine powder. Take a bowl and mix 1 cup processed oats with 1 tablespoon granulated salt. You can also use granulated sugar. Add ¼ cup of farina to this mixture. Wash your face with lukewarm water and use the mixture you prepared to rub on your skin. Remember to apply this mixture gently. Rinse the mixture by splashing lukewarm water. This mixture is not recommended for daily use.

Moisturizing Cream

Cut a ripe avocado lengthwise to slice it in two parts. Start removing the pit and then discard. Place only half the avocado in a glass bowl. Add wheat germ oil (1-1.5 tablespoon) to the bowl. Mix these ingredients well. Apply it mixture on your skin and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Use lukewarm water to rinse the mixture.

Apple Toner

This simple recipe can be used for toning your skin. You can take a green apple and remove the skin and core of the apple. Chop the apple and put in into a blender with 1-2 tablespoons of honey. Blend the mixture as a puree. Spread this mixture on your face gently and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Rinse your face using lukewarm water and pat dry your face.

Some of the above mentioned homemade recipes can help you pamper your skin and maintain a healthy. These recipes are gentle on your skin and do not harm your skin. Now you can become a skin expert for yourself using products available in your kitchen.

Worldwide, every hour, one man dies of malignant melanoma, meaning that the stain can be easily confused with a simple mole. Skin cancer has become the most common form of cancer today. Studies show that one in five adults can die from this cause.

Protects from UVB but also UVA?

In general, the majority of the company are good for protection against ultraviolet B (UVB), but blocked a smaller extent ultraviolet A (UVA). The most effective creams are those mentioned on the label that acts against both UVA and UVB both. Both types of UV contribute to skin cancer. The ultraviolet rays are the ones that cause wrinkles and premature aging.

Also, the most effective creams are those containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Choose the correct protective factor

When using a sunscreen with factor 15, for example, blocks about 93% of ultraviolet rays, which is sufficient protection for most people. A blonde person with light skin, should use a sunscreen with SPF higher, say 30, which blocks 97% of ultraviolet rays, and a person with darker skin can use sunscreen with SPF reduced, even under 15.

Not eliminate the risk of cancer

Protection reduces the risk of cancer, but does not eliminate it. “Over the years that sunscreens were used, was found a decrease in the number of people suffering from skin cancer. We doctors know that they are effective protection against this type of cancer,” said dermatologist Margaret Parsons .

But experts are divided opinions, some saying that such products can also be harmful. Based on several studies on cosmetic products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found a link between a chemical, retinyl palmitate, contained in some sunscreen and skin cancer risk. Retinyl palmitate is a component of vitamin A and is known for its anti-aging effects.

Studies by the National Center for Toxicological Research and National Toxicology Program have shown that mice whose skin was smeared with a cream containing retinyl palmitate tumors grow faster, compared to those who had not applied creams this ingredient.
Another substance that must be avoided is oxybenzonul which penetrates the skin and then enter the blood. Despite criticisms, dermatologists still recommend them to prevent sunburn, which can degenerate into skin cancer.

Apricot kernel oil
Color: pale yellow
Components: vitamins, minerals, fatty acids
Action: remove the stress, helps to achieve a steady state

Use
* Good for all skin types, especially prematurely aging skin, dehydrated and sensitive;
* Is appropriate to use undiluted.

Avocado oil

Color: deep green
Components: vitamins A, E, D, B1, B2, pantothenic acid, protein, lecithin

Use
* Good for all skin types;
* Preferably diluted with 10% base oil;
* Avocado oil is indicated in treating psoriasis.

Avocado oil is also used in the manufacture of various cosmetics. In market there are a number of cleansing creams and lotions to prevent premature aging of the skin caused by skin dehydration. Among the products include avocado oil and bath oils and shampoos.

Yarrow oil

Color: pale yellow
Components: gamma-linoleic acid, vitamins, minerals
Action: is regenerative, stimulating

Use
* For psoriasis;
* For eczema.

Coconut oil

Color: Bright Yellow
Components: Solid at room temperature and requires heating

Use
* Good for all skin types, especially at very dehydrated;
* Good for the hair, with an extremely moisturizing.

Grapeseed oil

Color: colorless or pale green
Components: vitamins, minerals, protein, rich in linoleic acid
Action: non-allergenic

Use
* Good for all skin types;
* Is used undiluted.

Jojoba oil

Color: dark yellow
Components: proteins, minerals
Action: helps prevent oxidation of the oils has a role in excess sebum

Use
* Used in treating skin disorders: eczema, acne;
* Last longer than other oils;
* Can be used alone or diluted with other oils.

Olive oil

Color: Green
Components: proteins, minerals, vitamin E, calcium, copper, phosphorus, zinc, carotene
Action: remove the effect of heat and stiffness in motion

Use
* Good for all skin types;
* Can be used undiluted, but maximum efficiency is obtained diluted;
* Recommended virgin olive oil cold pressed.

Peanut oil

Color: pale yellow
Components: protein, B vitamins, niacin, minerals
Action: anti-inflammatory

Use
* If you are not allergic to peanuts, then the oil is suitable for all skin types, especially dehydrated, dry;
* Used to treat arthritis or bursitis.

Sesame oil

Color: dark yellow
Components: Vitamin E, amino acids
Action: antiseptic, nutritious, prevents premature skin aging, purifying

Use
* Good for all skin types, except visibly irritated skin;
* Used to treat arthritis, rheumatism;
* Kill scabies, ringworm and most yeast;
* Can be used in 100% concentration, but is most effectively diluted by 10%.

Such myths about sunscreen can put life in danger. A poor protection against UV rays can lead to skin cancer, and one of the most common and aggressive form of cancer is melanoma.

“Melanoma is considered the most aggressive skin cancer, lead to death if diagnosed late because metastasize relatively quickly. But if it is detected in a curable stage. Therefore we must prevent the appearance of, to protect ourselves from the sun, We examine the skin, considering the changes that come and do a regular checkup at the dermatologist.

There is no 100% protection!

Until last year, the companies producing cosmetics sunscreen labels could pass phrases such as “sunblock”, “100% protection” or “total sun protection.” These indications were banned in the European Union because studies have shown that no sunscreen product can provide full protection against UV radiation.

Therefore, the European Commission imposed the use of standardized terms such as “low”, “medium”, “high” and “very high” sun protection factors (SPF – Sun Protection Factors).

According to these terms, can be indicated on the label:

* Low protection – SPF 6, 10
* Environmental protection – SPF 15, 20, 25
* High Protection – SPF 30, 50
* Very High Protection – SPF 50 +

UVA rays are not as dangerous as those UVB: false!

While UVB rays cause sunburn, UVA rays cause premature skin aging and disorders of the human immune system. Both types of radiation increases skin cancer risk. “Sun protection factor” only refers to equal levels of sunburn (UVB radiation).

Sunscreen products that provide protection only against UVB rays can give a false sense of security because hazardous UV radiation reach the skin.

Currently, the industry begins to apply a distinctive standardized labeling UVA, indicating a minimum level of protection against UVA rays, while it increases with increasing sun protection factor, according to the European Consumer Centre.

Self-tanning lotion does not protect you against UV rays!

There is the myth that lotions and creams that give the appearance of tanned skin and are efficient in terms of sun protection. It is a myth extremely dangerous for your health.

Self-tanning creams and lotions do nothing to “emulate” the tanned skin, coloring by a chemical reaction layer of dead skin cells. Therefore, they do not provide any sun protection.

The same is true for the oil to help accelerate the tanning. It does not provide adequate sun protection, with a low sun protection factor of 6 or 10. These oils are recommended only for those who have already tanned skin and very dark.

A coffee facial scrub may be just the thing you are looking for to treat your face. Coffee has been used for centuries as a way to fight fatigue and reinvigorate the senses. The caffeine in coffee has scientifically been proven to stimulate your energy levels and your fatigue-stricken face through topical application. Coffee’s physical texture also makes it a great exfoliate for sloughing off dead layers of skin, allowing your fresh under-layers of skin to shine and breathe. Before we delve into how to get your coffee beauty on, let’s gather our materials for making one of the best homemade beauty products out there.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons of coffee grounds, the base from which we will make our homemade beauty products
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil, which helps extract and hold the caffeine and antioxidant properties of the coffee grounds.
• A container, which will hold the completed mixture.

Directions

1. Place your coffee grounds into a coffee grinder. You want the coffee grounds to be as fine as possible in size and texture as this will act as an exfoliate, furthering the success of the product by exposing fresh layers of skin and allowing the caffeine and antioxidants to penetrate deeper.
2. Take your fine coffee grounds and add them into your container.
3. Add the olive oil into the container, mixing the coffee grounds and olive oil thoroughly and evenly. Your coffee beauty mixture is ready to be used!
4. Your mixture should have a rich, brown color and texture; if you wish to make a larger batch, simply keep in mind that it is 3 parts coffee to 2 parts olive oil.

Result

Once your coffee beauty mixture is complete and stored, apply a dab to your finger and begin gently scrubbing the areas of your face that you would like to exfoliate. When you are done scrubbing, rinse your face with warm water and pat dry. You should feel the tingling sensation of the exfoliation and caffeine at work, relieving puffiness and water retention while stimulating the facial muscles to slowly tighten, giving you a refreshed, youthful glow. Homemade beauty products such as this coffee beauty technique really show us that sometimes we have to look no further than nature to find the best solutions to our everyday problems. Avoid the high-priced exfoliates that you see on the shelves at beauty stores and supermarkets and make your own potent, inexpensive coffee beauty scrub today!

Let us know how great your skin looks after using the coffee facial scrub and share this low-cost, high-value trick with everyone you know!

The Pros of Wearing No Makeup

One of the most immediate benefits of not wearing makeup is the lack of maintenance. You suddenly no longer have to spend time applying and removing foundation, blush and concealer every day. These benefits also trickle down into long-term health for your skin, as you no longer have to worry about the comedogenic (pore-clogging) effects that traditional makeup has on your skin. Within a short period of time, you’ll notice that your skin’s most-traditionally clogged pores are decreasing in both number and size. With fewer natural blemishes on your face, your natural makeup (also known as you) is freer to shine and show off the true you!

Many times, makeup can also end up accentuating our features that make us appear older. When you apply makeup and “go through the motions” in your daily life, makeup loves to go along for the ride. It tends to work itself into our faces, outlining fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet. If you apply a moderate to heavy amount of makeup, by the end of the day your makeup may be doing the exact opposite of what you initially intended: making you look old and tired as opposed to youthful and refreshed. If you follow the natural makeup approach, these worries are out the window.

Making the Transition

Millions of people all around the globe have made the switch from heavy, traditional makeup to a no-makeup or natural makeup regimen. Celebrities understand the importance of looking their best, but they also understand the need for a fresh, natural look that isn’t always derived from harsh chemicals and skin-irritating products. Many individuals may feel naked without their favourite cosmetics at first, but you do not have to go “cold turkey” all at once. There are a variety of natural yet minimally-invasive skin products out there that can give you that desired look while simultaneously providing your skin with added benefits.

Natural makeup product lines such as bareMinerals, Ecco Bella, and Bare Escentuals have an array of blushes, foundations and powders that both nourish and accentuate your natural tones without the negative side-effects of traditional makeup. Many natural or mineral-based lines of makeup will bond to your skin’s oil output, which as mentioned earlier leads to cleaner, more open pores. Mineral makeup is light but effective, allowing you to start with a very light amount of coverage and build up to your desired look. Virtually all mineral makeup lines also have natural UV protection which helps guard the skin against damaging sun exposure, a very important issue that is neglected in most traditional cosmetic products.

Conclusion

Mineral-based makeup is all the rage nowadays. Whether you are looking to go au natural or simply improve the process of your current makeup regimen, consider the switch. Natural makeup will complement and benefit your complexion and your skin will thank you!

The decision to go natural isn’t always so easy, though.

Cure or Not?

• Many people consider Accutane to be a cure for cystic acne, but this is only true in a certain way. Accutane will obliterate cystic acne for six months while you are taking the medicine and another six when you are not, and then another cycle has to start. If Accutane was really a cure for cystic acne, ongoing treatment would not be necessary because the cystic acne would not resurface.
• Natural treatments for cystic acne are not cures either, but they seem to be much less effective than Accutane at removing the cysts that give cystic acne its name. Glycolic acid is a common natural treatment for cystic acne because it comes from fruit and supposedly removes the surface level damage. But that is the problem. Products like glycolic acid only take off minor cosmetic aspects of acne. The cysts stay below the skin and are not affected.

Birth Control and Cystic Acne

• Accutane requires that its users be on birth control pills because the chances of having an abnormal pregnancy, should the patient become pregnant, are extremely high. For some, this is not a difficult requirement to meet, and for others, this requirement is already met before they even set foot into the doctor’s office. But many who live a natural life style would like to avoid using birth control if possible, and many with certain religious convictions also have reasons to stay away from birth control pills.
• Natural alternatives to birth control can be just as effective as medicinal birth control, like, for instance, the Creighton model of natural family planning, a method frequently using by Catholics to avoid a pregnancy. But the downside to using a method rather than medicine to treat your cystic acne is that sometimes staying true to the method can be a difficult task. How many people have trouble taking a birth control pill from a purse pack, though? One way (the pill) uses medicine while the other (natural family planning) uses discipline, and we all know how hard the latter is to come by.
• If you are thinking about treating your cystic acne but living a natural lifestyle, consider searching hard for an alternative to both birth control and natural family planning that still suits your needs. One possible alternative is invasive birth control (condoms, for instance), but often this is an uncomfortable and not totally effective method.

Just remember to make the choice that is best for you.

However, in this type of male genital problems grains should make a visit to the dermatologist and explain our problem, because he always find the best solution to fix it. Another added option is to go to teledermatology services to which we can send a full history.