Jul 20, 2009

ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE - RESTORING YOUR SKIN'S YOUTH


Eye Serum
Why is anti-aging skin care a significant concern with today’s population? Well, quite simply, it is because of the numbers. The baby boomers (individuals born between 1946 and 1964) are collectively aging. This means that there is a very large segment of the population showing the signs of aging. Skin is one of the body’s elements that reflects this in a dramatic way. Therefore, a lot of emphasis is being placed nowadays on anti-aging skin care treatments and products.


As our bodies age, our skin also ages and like the rest of our body, it is impossible to stop the skin aging process or reverse it. However, with proper care, skin aging can be slowed and visible effects reversed to some degree. It is possible to have healthy and younger looking skin. The signs of aging skin are very noticeable in an elderly person, but the onset of these symptoms is evident in younger people as well. Basically, symptoms of skin aging can be split into the following age categories: pre-teen, 13 to 20 years, 20 to 30 years, 30 to 40 years, 40 to 55 years, and greater than 55 years. So, there is no big surprise here, your skin ages. What can be done about it?


Before discussing which anti-aging treatments are necessary, it is important to understand the causes of skin aging. What factors are responsible? There is no single cause that leads to older looking skin, but rather a combination of many day-to-day factors that individuals are subjected to.


Once the causes of skin aging are understood, the next logical step for anti-aging skin care is prevention. Prevention is the most effective of all treatments. Remember this old saying – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. No doubt, this is true for your skin. Anything you don’t do right in your younger years with your skin, will end up costing you a lot of anxiety, effort, pain, and money later on, as you age. This is why it is important, or perhaps it should be said with more emphasis, VERY IMPORTANT, to follow proper anti-aging skin care precautions. These precautions should be adhered to as early as possible in a person’s life, so that the skin can maintain it’s youthful beauty and health for many years. Prevention is important even if the skin has aged, in order to limit further damage. It should not be taken for granted at any time.

Unfortunately, history and experience tells us that even for people who are extremely careful with avoiding the causes of skin aging, it is not possible to stop it. It will occur to some degree. The good news is that many anti-aging skincare treatments are available. The treatments are generally focussed on the face and hands because these are the areas of our skin that are exposed to the aging elements day after day. The facial area and hands are also the most visible parts of our skin and therefore, tend to get the most attention. Effective anti-aging skin care treatments are an essential aspect to obtaining good overall skin health.


What are the options available for anti-aging skin care treatment? There are several possibilities, from basic to more costly, complex, and painful. For the basic anti-aging skin care treatments, the decision of which to use is fairly easy. Try a variety of products until you find one that provides the results you are satisfied with. Not all products work. Some products may work, but not specifically for you. However, there are some very effective products available that can provide great results without having to endure a lot of pain. A reasonable amount of experimentation is the key. For the more complex options, you should consult with your doctor, a dermatologist, or a plastic surgeon to determine which treatment is right for you.


Jul 19, 2009

Sensitive Skin Care


Sensitive skin care is an important topic for many people. Why? Unfortunately, it is because sensitive skin is fairly common in today’s population.


Sensitive skin is a condition that can be quite vague. For example, some people do not care for their skin properly or use harsh products. Usually, this results in some sort of ailment, leading the individuals to think that they have sensitive skin.


However, the above example is not the type of problem that this page is concerned with. Instead, this page deals with individuals who have skin reactions with only minor exposure to some sort of irritant. In this situation, the skin condition is very frustrating because the individual may be following healthy skin care procedures, but yet still suffer problems.


So then, what is sensitive skin? This condition is difficult to define. Dermatologists view it one-way, scientists another, and affected individuals another way as well. However, in general terms, sensitive skin can be defined as skin that is easily irritated and the results can range from mild to severe.


How do you know you have sensitive skin and require sensitive skin care? This is another difficult question. In fact, dermatologists often have a difficult time diagnosing and treating this condition. Nevertheless, there are
common signs or symptoms that lead one to conclude that they have sensitive skin.

Once it has been established that your skin is more sensitive than the average person, the next step is to deal with it. Unfortunately, many individuals get very frustrated with this problem. They don’t seek professional advice for sensitive skin care because this is a very difficult condition to cure or even manage.


First of all, a dermatologist or doctor should be consulted to determine if the sensitive skin is a result of a more serious underlying health problem. If no other problems are found, then it becomes a situation where a dermatologist may try different sensitive skin care treatments to ease the condition. However, many times this is not enough. Individuals need to note on their own what triggers a reaction. They need to keep a close account of skin products they use, what they eat, etc. and come armed with this information when visiting a specialist. Treatment also involves the individual managing their own condition by eliminating certain irritants or trying different products after consultation with a doctor.


There are various skin diseases (or conditions) that can be linked to sensitive skin. Examples of these are:
urticaria, dermatographism, and rosacea. These conditions tend to be present in individuals with overly sensitive skin.

Manufacturers have taken notice of this problem. There are many sensitive skin care products available. Experimentation with a variety of these products is the best way to find what may or may not work for you.


Below are hypoallergenic dry sheets and an example of a senstive skin care product. These are a must for anyone with sensitive skin. In fact, even those without sensitive skin will get benefits from these sheets. You get all the benefits that dryer sheets provide without the many chemicals that are present in regular dryer sheets.


Finally, a sensitive skin condition varies from person to person. Sensitive skin care also differs between individuals. Shared personal experiences often helps individuals deal with their own situation. For a look at a personal experience with sensitive skin, check this
sensitive skin diary.

OILY SKIN CARE - RESTORING YOUR SKIN'S OIL BALANCE


Oily skin care is a difficult topic to address. On one hand you need a certain amount of oil on your skin to keep it healthy and young looking. Natural skin oils are necessary to prevent problems such as dry skin. Oily skin is also less susceptible to the development of fine lines and wrinkles, discolouration, and freckles.


On the other hand, skin that is oily attracts more dust and dirt to the skin surface and excessive oil build-up can clog pores leading to problems such as acne breakouts. Oily skin leads to the development of larger than normal skin pores (often mistaken as acne scars) that give the skin a rough appearance. Therefore, because oily skin has some advantages, but also disadvantages, proper skincare (especially on the face) is a challenge.


As skin ages, the tendency is for dry skin to be more of a problem. However, skin that is too oily can occur at any age, for any gender, or for any race group. It is a problem that cannot be ignored.


Before discussing skin care for oily skin, it is important to
identify your skin type. Is it oily or is it just normal? This is necessary information to know in order to diagnose that you actually have an oily skin problem. You do not want to treat a condition that may not actually exist.

The next step is to examine the
causes of oily skin. There are many reasons why skin becomes oily. It could be genetics or diet. Understanding the causes is essential before undertaking treatments, because simply avoiding some of the causes may actually be the only treatment necessary.

When treatments are required, please take note that remedies to restore skin to its natural oil balance can vary substantially. For example, oily skin can be managed by following a set of
basic treatments for oily skin care such as proper washing and use of common products for skin that is oily. However, many people prefer all natural remedies in dealing with this problem. Finally, diet and nutrition (what you eat or don’t eat) can play a significant role in a treatment plan.

Proper care of oily skin involves diagnosing your skin type, focussing on the causes, and experimenting with a variety of treatments. Oily skin is generally not a serious problem that requires a visit to a dermatologist (unless more serious complications arise). However, this condition does require proper attention to ensure your skin remains beautiful and healthy.


DRY SKIN CARE


Dry skin care treatments must be used when necessary to prevent dryness from robbing skin of its natural beauty and in order to maintain skin in good health.


It is likely that most people have at one time experienced a dry skincare problem to some degree either on their hands, face, or other parts of their body. However, how common is this problem? Do we really have to be concerned about dry skin care?


Twenty percent of the population suffers from a dry skin problem. That is one in five people and so, yes, dry skin is quite common. Depending on which part of the world you are from, this percentage may even be greater. It is a non-specific condition, affecting people of all ages. It is not solely a problem associated with skin aging.


Most people tend to ignore or not realize they have dry skin and this leads to the worsening of the condition. How do you know you have dry skin? Well, generally the same symptoms occur in people and this makes it easy to diagnose. The signs are usually obvious. However, the level of severity can differ substantially. For a look at
symptoms of a dry skincare problem - click here.

If you suspect you have a dry skin care problem then the next logical question is how did this happen to my once healthy skin. There are a number of reasons why your skin has become dry and the
causes of dry skin are discussed here.

Fortunately, dry skin (also known generally as xerosis) usually is not a serious problem and for the most part can be controlled simply by being aware and using proper dry skincare products.


Prevention is your first weapon. Tips for
preventing a dry skincare problem can be found here. Following these dry skin care recommendations is a must if you want to keep you skin healthy, but as we all know, we do not live in an ideal world. Sometimes our day-to-day demands prevent us from practicing dry skin care prevention and next thing you know, your skin is dry.

For minor symptoms, there are many effective
dry skin care treatments and dry skin products. These can be pursued without doctor’s advice.



Jul 18, 2009

Health and Beauty Guide to Hot Stone Therapy

Hot Stone Therapy

Hot Stone Therapy is a concept that has seemed to come into popularity within the past 5-10 years. Certainly within the last 3 years, it has become the ‘in’ treatment at spas, health farms and therapeutic centres all over the world. Contrary to popular belief, Hot Stone Therapy was not actually first discovered in the desert of Arizona.

It is an age old therapy dating back some 5000 years to India and almost certainly the Mayan Culture. Ayurveda, the ancient healing tradition of India, spoke of a universal source in all life. The energy called Prana is the energy or the breadth of life which moves through all forms to give them life. Yogis work with this energy using breathing techniques, meditation, physical exercise and massage to produce altered states of consciousness, healing and longevity. They would not only use their hands for manipulation and healing, but also utilise tools the earth would naturally provide such as herbs, flowers, crystals and stones.

Stone Massage Therapy came from the healers using rocks from the river beds and warming them in hot coals or hot water. By placing the hot stones on cloth, on the body and arranging them along the energy centres of the body, a healing process would occur. The hot stones have a tendency to relax the muscles draw out muscle pain and discomfort.

The Hot Stones appear to connect the flow or paths of energy together in order to rebalance the physical body, emotional mind and spirit as one. As the stones cool, the healer will replace them with hot ones. The feet are extremely energy sensitive and are also stimulated in Hot Stone Massage.

As in Reflexology, the entire body can be reflected in the feet. Hot Stone Therapy works with tiny river rocks placed between the toes to de-stress and stimulate the nerve endings in the feet. At the end, the healer would massage the feet and the body with the stones and scented oils. Cool stones could then be placed on the pulse points for revitalising and rejuvenating. Stone Therapy was utilised by many cultures across Europe and within the Mezo-American and Native American tribes as well.

Within the last 10 years, Stone Therapy has found a new life in the West. Since the ever growing popularity of alternative therapies has been channelling into the mainstream, every Spa and Salon seems to have jumped on the bandwagon to meet the growing demand of the client.

It’s simplicity does not take away from the benefits and usefulness of this natural massage tool. There is no one way to practice Stone Therapy, but temperature control is of the utmost importance. The quality and size of the stone will determine how long the stone will hold heat effectively. They can be used to enhance the healer’s current routine or relaxing 90 minute Hot Stone Therapy sessions can be offered. The Stones Can be used in the following ways:

Effleurage Tool

The smoothness and shape of the stones enhance such gliding techniques used in Swedish and Lomi-Lomi massages. A little oil applied to the stones allows for a graceful effleurage movement whilst warming the muscle. It has a similar effect to ‘ironing a muscle’.

Pressure Point Tool

The natural evolution of Hot Stones permits each stone to have it’s own unique shape, size and function. Certain stones will stand out when you are looking to use one for pressure point application. Reflexology and trigger point therapies can benefit by allowing deeper work without the strain on thumbs and wrists.

Compression Tool

The weight of the stones provide physical and mental comfort and can enhance the compression technique. As they cool, they can remain in a certain position giving it that extra attention whilst the healer can work on other parts of the body. Even by just holding the Hot Stones in the palm of the hand can provide a soothing feeling.

Thermotherapy Tool

The heat and cold retention capabilities of Hot Stones make them excellent thermotherapy tools. When warmed, the natural heat given off by the stones warms muscles and quickly relaxes clients. As the result the healer can work deeper and do more specific work in the time allowed for the massage.

A Health Aid

It is not unheard of to find a therapist who is in desperate need of a treatment themselves. Most bodywork is physical and can cause undue strain on the fingers, hands, wrists and tension in the shoulders. Without compromising the therapist themselves, Hot Stones are the perfect tool to enable a deeper massage. They can also provide relief for tired and sore hands. The heat from the stones works with you and warms muscles, whilst the weight of the stones can assist in releasing pressure.


(From http://www.healthandbeautyguide.com)

Health and Beauty Guide to Water

THE BEVERAGE YOUR BODY NEEDS MOST

Health and Beauty Guide has taken a look at the beverage our need to survive. Our bodies are estimated to be 60 to 70% water. Blood is mostly water and our muscles, lungs and brain all contain a lot of water. Water is needed to regulate body temperature and to provide the means for nutrients to travel to all of our organs. Water also transports oxygen to our cells, removes waste and protects our joints and organs.

SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION

Our bodies lose water through urination, respiration and sweating. If you very active it follows that you lose more water then if you are sedentary. Diuretics such as caffeine and alcohol cause us to lose water by tricking the body into thinking that you have more water than you need.
Symptoms of mild dehydration can include chronic pains in joints and muscles, lower back pain, headaches and also constipation. Your urine may have a strong odor and if the color has changed to yellow or amber, this could also mean that you are not getting enough water. Feeling thirsty is, an all too obvious sign of dehydration, but you actually need water long before you feel the thirst.

Other signs of Dehydration include:
• Dry Eyes
• Dry Sticky mouth
• Nausea after exercise

HOW MUCH WATER TO DRINK

A good rule of thumb is to take your body weight in pounds and then divide that number in half. This equates to the number of fluid ounces that you need to drink per day e.g. if you weigh 160 pounds you should be drinking at least 80 fluid ounces of water a day. Obviously this amount will differ with exercise. Generally another 8 ounce glass of water should be drunk for every 20 minutes of exercise. When drinking caffeine or alcohol, you should equal the amount with water. Traveling can also affect hydration levels and if flying, 8 fluid ounces of water should be consumed for every hour you are on board. Likewise, the climate in which you live will also determine the amount you drink. From these facts, you can see your daily need for water can add up to quite a lot.

The very best source of water is just plain, pure drinking water. Juices and carbonated drinks tend to contain sugar and can act as diuretics. Most sports drinks contain electrolytes which can be beneficial should you be exercising a lot.

HEALTH AND BEAUTY GUIDE TOP TIPS TO DRINKING WATER

1. Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day.
2. Drink water slowly, constantly sipping it throughout the day.
3. Don’t drink caffeinated drinks or alcoholic beverages which can dehydrate.
4. Drink water before, during and after exercise – slowly!
5. Carry a bottle of water where ever possible.
6. Remember fluids can be lost through perspiration as well as from diarrhoea
7. Sports drinks can help replenish lost electrolytes.
8. If your temperature exceeds 102 degrees – Call a doctor.

(From http://www.healthandbeautyguide.com)


Jun 28, 2009

Beauty and Health-- A Gift from God and Yourself

No matter how old I am, I always want myself like a shinning star in a crowd, with fit body, healthy skin, great smile. During the short whole life,I want to be a cute girl, hot girl, beautiful lady, even I were a granny,I hope I still could be called graceful.
Beauty and health is a theme through ladies' whole life, no matter where you are, what you are fighting for, how you feel
If you have the same kind of feeling, we are on one level and let's start hunting our beauty and health for our brilliant life!