Would you rate your lifestyle as healthy? Some habits contribute to a much healthier lifestyle, like walking, exercising, eating fruits and vegetables plus drinking lots of water.
It is common knowledge that smoking and drinking are harmful to your health because of what they put in your body. In fact, these habits nasty habits over time can make serious changes to our internal organs and over all bodies.
There is a much more common hazard to your health however, that you don't consciously inhale, but there is a way to lessen it's impact -- the air we breathe. The quality of air we breathe is sometimes a very subtle issue we take for granted.
If you live in a city is very dirty and is unhealthy. Face it; the air in Manhattan is not the same quality as the mountain air in Oregon. Even if the air by your home is clean outside, the inside air has dust, dust mites, etc floating around. It can be up to three times as dirty as outdoor air because it is trapped inside. You can get an air purifier for your home to clean up the air indoors. This will seriously help your health.
There is a lot of information on air purifiers on the Internet. There are a lot of different options at different price ranges. You can get a standard system for about one hundred dollars, or a deluxe, powerful model for about one thousand dollars. There are plenty of options in between as well. It is important to check the reviews online of the kinds that you are interested in. This will help you make your decision. You can find the best purifiers in the price range that you want to spend.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
What Is The Best Treatment For Male Baldness?
What is the best treatment for male baldness? You could go on and on and even talk to so-called "hair loss experts" and they all would give you a different answer.
Actually the best treatment for male baldness isn't in a box on the shelf in a store or sold by a certain brand name. It's a combination of natural herbs and minerals along with common knowledge of hair growth.
If you haven't heard about hair loss side effects of certain baldness drugs and over-the-counter products, here is the scoop. Many men have reported headache, fatigue, and even sexual side effects as an effect of one of the most prescribed hair loss drugs.
To start ending male pattern baldnes, first start taking 1500 mg of Saw Palmetto daily. Saw Palmetto blocks the hormone dihydrotestosterone, also called DHT for short, from attacking hair follicles. This in itself is a treatment for male baldness.
Once you have got into a routine of taking Saw Palmetto, you will want to incorporate Biotin into your treatment for male baldness. It's a B-vitamin that is like "hair food" for your hair. You can pick this up at any nutritional center. You're taking Saw Palmetto to block DHT along with Biotin to start the regrowth of your hair, now simply increase blood circulation in the scalp. How? By massaging the scalp daily for about 10-15 minutes.
There is no need to buy expensive male hair loss products or even risk surgeries. By following these tips you will have the best treatment for baldness and regrow hair.
Actually the best treatment for male baldness isn't in a box on the shelf in a store or sold by a certain brand name. It's a combination of natural herbs and minerals along with common knowledge of hair growth.
If you haven't heard about hair loss side effects of certain baldness drugs and over-the-counter products, here is the scoop. Many men have reported headache, fatigue, and even sexual side effects as an effect of one of the most prescribed hair loss drugs.
To start ending male pattern baldnes, first start taking 1500 mg of Saw Palmetto daily. Saw Palmetto blocks the hormone dihydrotestosterone, also called DHT for short, from attacking hair follicles. This in itself is a treatment for male baldness.
Once you have got into a routine of taking Saw Palmetto, you will want to incorporate Biotin into your treatment for male baldness. It's a B-vitamin that is like "hair food" for your hair. You can pick this up at any nutritional center. You're taking Saw Palmetto to block DHT along with Biotin to start the regrowth of your hair, now simply increase blood circulation in the scalp. How? By massaging the scalp daily for about 10-15 minutes.
There is no need to buy expensive male hair loss products or even risk surgeries. By following these tips you will have the best treatment for baldness and regrow hair.
3 Steps To Lose Back Fat Forever
To lose back fat quickly and permanently you have to get serious! It's no use jumping onto another 'quick-fix' diet regime - losing the fat and then piling it all back on (and more) as soon as you revert back to your old habits. It is time to change your lifestyle, your habits and your body shape forever. If I can, so can you and it's a lot less difficult than you think. Let me show you 3 of the most important steps to lose back fat fast.
1. Change your nutritional habits.
To lose back fat all three of these steps are vital, but if there is one which I would cite as most important it would be this first one. Eating the right foods more often than not will result in dramatic fat-loss in a relatively short period of time. Western diets tend to be full of sugar and processed foods, these need to be cut out (or at least cut back) right away. Ditch the sodas, cakes and sweets and be wary of consuming too many 'bad' carbohydrates such as white bread, breakfast cereals and French fries. Look to avoid fried foods altogether and instead use healthier methods of cooking such as baking.
Increase your fibre intake slowly but surely, this will help avoid excess gas. Fibre is the indigestible part of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods which acts as a sponge when it combines with water during digestion. It cleanses your intestines and helps food move through the body more quickly and with greater efficiency. Add more protein to your diet, protein helps build and maintain and repair muscle tissue which is essential for quality fat burning as it helps increase the body's metabolism by burning more calories and therefore you will lose back fat faster.
2. Start on a regular exercise routine.
Beginning a program of regular exercise will help boost metabolism and increase your energy levels. You will feel healthier and burn more fat. I definitely recommend incorporating weight lifting routines into your weekly exercise workouts. Muscle burns more calories than fat and for every 1lb of lean muscle mass your body has you burn as much as 50 calories per day just to maintain it, thus creating a fat burning metabolism which helps you lose back fat quicker and easier.
Ditch the long, slow cardio workouts and replace them with highly intense interval type training. This promotes muscle retention and helps your body burn fat even after exercise. Also, don't over-do it! The is no point in working out for hours and hours each day, your body will only get tired and use muscle to fuel your workouts. An hour 3-4 days per week is fine, this gives your body a chance to recover and grow. Rest is as important as exercise if you want to lose back fat!
3. Reduce your stress levels.
This final step is so often overlooked but is nonetheless essential. To lose back fat stress levels must be reduced. Persons with elevated stress levels often produce hormones such as cortisol which can make fat-loss very difficult. If you can combine a quality diet with regular exercise and an optimal amount of sleep then you will see a huge reduction in stress levels and a massive boost in energy. Lowering stress levels will help you achieve any weight-loss goals you may have much quicker and also reduce the risk of developing serious health problems.
1. Change your nutritional habits.
To lose back fat all three of these steps are vital, but if there is one which I would cite as most important it would be this first one. Eating the right foods more often than not will result in dramatic fat-loss in a relatively short period of time. Western diets tend to be full of sugar and processed foods, these need to be cut out (or at least cut back) right away. Ditch the sodas, cakes and sweets and be wary of consuming too many 'bad' carbohydrates such as white bread, breakfast cereals and French fries. Look to avoid fried foods altogether and instead use healthier methods of cooking such as baking.
Increase your fibre intake slowly but surely, this will help avoid excess gas. Fibre is the indigestible part of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods which acts as a sponge when it combines with water during digestion. It cleanses your intestines and helps food move through the body more quickly and with greater efficiency. Add more protein to your diet, protein helps build and maintain and repair muscle tissue which is essential for quality fat burning as it helps increase the body's metabolism by burning more calories and therefore you will lose back fat faster.
2. Start on a regular exercise routine.
Beginning a program of regular exercise will help boost metabolism and increase your energy levels. You will feel healthier and burn more fat. I definitely recommend incorporating weight lifting routines into your weekly exercise workouts. Muscle burns more calories than fat and for every 1lb of lean muscle mass your body has you burn as much as 50 calories per day just to maintain it, thus creating a fat burning metabolism which helps you lose back fat quicker and easier.
Ditch the long, slow cardio workouts and replace them with highly intense interval type training. This promotes muscle retention and helps your body burn fat even after exercise. Also, don't over-do it! The is no point in working out for hours and hours each day, your body will only get tired and use muscle to fuel your workouts. An hour 3-4 days per week is fine, this gives your body a chance to recover and grow. Rest is as important as exercise if you want to lose back fat!
3. Reduce your stress levels.
This final step is so often overlooked but is nonetheless essential. To lose back fat stress levels must be reduced. Persons with elevated stress levels often produce hormones such as cortisol which can make fat-loss very difficult. If you can combine a quality diet with regular exercise and an optimal amount of sleep then you will see a huge reduction in stress levels and a massive boost in energy. Lowering stress levels will help you achieve any weight-loss goals you may have much quicker and also reduce the risk of developing serious health problems.
Eye Diseases - Ayurvedic Concept
Eyes being one of the most important organs in Ayurveda, all five elements play a role in maintaining eye health. Earth (prithivi) governs the muscular part of the eye, fire (tejas) rules the blood vessels, air (vayu) governs the color, water (apu) dominates the white area, and space (akasha) controls the tear ducts and channels.According to ayurvedic studies, eye problems are caused by upsetting of one of the three doshas namely an imbalance in vata, pitta or kapha doshas.
Improper Eye care can result in the following:
* Impaired vision (need of glasses)
* Cataracts
* Damaged Retinas
* Blindness
Causes
* Vata disorders in the eye tend to lead to dryness, poor vision and eyestrain.
* Pitta imbalances cause burning, inflammation, yellow pus, and redness.
*
TREATMENT
Ayurvedic eye treatment varies for each problem. Few eye strengthening and purifying treatments are use of triphala eyewash, eye bright infusion and netra vasti. Cooling herbs such as roses, sandalwood, coriander leaves, and Indian eyeliner (kajal) also improve vision. A drop of pure castor oil in the eyes is also healing for vata and pitta eye diseases. As shatavari is high in vitamin A and gooseberry in vitamin C these strengthen the eyes connective tissue integrity. As per Ayurveda it is vital to protect the eyes from chemicals, overstrain, sunlight and internal toxins. Heat too increases degeneration of the eyes connective tissue so one should avoid hot hair dryers, hot water on the face, alcohol based cosmetics around the eyes. Yogic eye exercises are indeed helpful to maintain clarity of vision. Above all a diet, rich in antioxidants such as fresh fruit and vegetables will result in strong eyes.
Improper Eye care can result in the following:
* Impaired vision (need of glasses)
* Cataracts
* Damaged Retinas
* Blindness
Causes
* Vata disorders in the eye tend to lead to dryness, poor vision and eyestrain.
* Pitta imbalances cause burning, inflammation, yellow pus, and redness.
*
TREATMENT
Ayurvedic eye treatment varies for each problem. Few eye strengthening and purifying treatments are use of triphala eyewash, eye bright infusion and netra vasti. Cooling herbs such as roses, sandalwood, coriander leaves, and Indian eyeliner (kajal) also improve vision. A drop of pure castor oil in the eyes is also healing for vata and pitta eye diseases. As shatavari is high in vitamin A and gooseberry in vitamin C these strengthen the eyes connective tissue integrity. As per Ayurveda it is vital to protect the eyes from chemicals, overstrain, sunlight and internal toxins. Heat too increases degeneration of the eyes connective tissue so one should avoid hot hair dryers, hot water on the face, alcohol based cosmetics around the eyes. Yogic eye exercises are indeed helpful to maintain clarity of vision. Above all a diet, rich in antioxidants such as fresh fruit and vegetables will result in strong eyes.
Prepackaged Diet Food - How To Add Variety And Enhance Taste
I've been on the medifast diet plan since October. I am on the five plus one plan so I've probably consumed close to one thousand prepackaged meals. I also work at a very large office complex full of dieting women. Those of us on diets often have taste tests at lunch time. As a result, in addition to medifast, I've also tasted the offerings of jenny craig, nutrisystem, and the chef's diet to name only a few.
Prepackaged diet meals have come a long way. For the most part, I find them pretty good and acceptable. If I am in a hurry or don't feel like putting any effort towards my meals, I can get by just fine. But, if I have a little more time and inclination, I don't hesitate to take liberties with the foods. (Although I only have personal experience with the diet I am on, I am sure this method would work with all of the prepackaged diet plans.)
For example, the medifast shakes are pretty good, but they are fantastic when made in a high quality blender, served ice cold, and topped with fat free whipped cream and sugar free / fat free caramel syrup. (Fruit flavored syrups are also very good.) This trick can also be used for the puddings, fruit drinks, lattes and cappuccinos. This usually helps keep me satisfied, but if I am having a major dessert craving, I'll splurge and add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or sliced almonds to my shake or pudding. Yes, theoretically this is cheating, but this splurge is still a very high protein, low calorie treat and much more diet friendly than a real dessert.
I sometimes take these liberties with most of the foods in my diet. Here are a few more examples. I take the prepackaged medifast scrambled eggs, add veggies, fat free cheese and roll it in a fat free tortilla to make an omelet or breakfast sandwich. Sometimes I add salsa to this. Also, I add sugar free syrup, fresh fruit and applesauce to the oatmeal. I add hummus or fat free dip to the soy crackers. I top the chili with fat free cheese and fat free sour cream. Sometimes, I put the chili in a tortilla, add salsa and sour cream and call it a burrito.
My favorite way to enhance the foods is to make them something else entirely. Believe it or not, the medifast puddings and oatmeals can be used to make cookies, cakes and muffins. I also take the fruit drinks and pour them over shaved ice so that I can enjoy a snow cone.
It's entirely possible that the doctors who developed my diet plan did not intend for me to change up the foods. However, I don't think they would argue that I've lost over 50 pounds and after six months, I'm not bored and am sticking with the program with a high amount of enthusiasm. Therefore, I don't think they would mind at all. By definition, I am having a great deal of success with this program and I am sure this is the goal for all dieters.
I would encourage anyone considering or consuming prepackaged diet foods to feel free to use sugar and fat free additions to make the diet's foods appealing to you. This will also add a great deal of variety and will help keep you from getting bored.
Prepackaged diet meals have come a long way. For the most part, I find them pretty good and acceptable. If I am in a hurry or don't feel like putting any effort towards my meals, I can get by just fine. But, if I have a little more time and inclination, I don't hesitate to take liberties with the foods. (Although I only have personal experience with the diet I am on, I am sure this method would work with all of the prepackaged diet plans.)
For example, the medifast shakes are pretty good, but they are fantastic when made in a high quality blender, served ice cold, and topped with fat free whipped cream and sugar free / fat free caramel syrup. (Fruit flavored syrups are also very good.) This trick can also be used for the puddings, fruit drinks, lattes and cappuccinos. This usually helps keep me satisfied, but if I am having a major dessert craving, I'll splurge and add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or sliced almonds to my shake or pudding. Yes, theoretically this is cheating, but this splurge is still a very high protein, low calorie treat and much more diet friendly than a real dessert.
I sometimes take these liberties with most of the foods in my diet. Here are a few more examples. I take the prepackaged medifast scrambled eggs, add veggies, fat free cheese and roll it in a fat free tortilla to make an omelet or breakfast sandwich. Sometimes I add salsa to this. Also, I add sugar free syrup, fresh fruit and applesauce to the oatmeal. I add hummus or fat free dip to the soy crackers. I top the chili with fat free cheese and fat free sour cream. Sometimes, I put the chili in a tortilla, add salsa and sour cream and call it a burrito.
My favorite way to enhance the foods is to make them something else entirely. Believe it or not, the medifast puddings and oatmeals can be used to make cookies, cakes and muffins. I also take the fruit drinks and pour them over shaved ice so that I can enjoy a snow cone.
It's entirely possible that the doctors who developed my diet plan did not intend for me to change up the foods. However, I don't think they would argue that I've lost over 50 pounds and after six months, I'm not bored and am sticking with the program with a high amount of enthusiasm. Therefore, I don't think they would mind at all. By definition, I am having a great deal of success with this program and I am sure this is the goal for all dieters.
I would encourage anyone considering or consuming prepackaged diet foods to feel free to use sugar and fat free additions to make the diet's foods appealing to you. This will also add a great deal of variety and will help keep you from getting bored.
How To Prepare For Lasik Surgery
The prospect of having clear vision without spectacles or contacts can be almost irresistible. Today LASIK surgery has made this a very real possibility for millions across the world. However, if you are toying with the idea of getting this surgery done, then here are a couple of things you need to know.
Stop using contacts
You will need to be prepared to stop wearing contacts at least 1-4 weeks before the actual LASIK surgery date. Gas permeable lenses require the most time out of lenses. Extended wearing of lenses can alter the corneal shape which can impact the results of surgery.
No more makeup
Yes, you will need to stop using perfume or makeup or even cream bases the day prior to LASIK surgery. With these products debris can cause inflammation, which can lead to haze or scarring.
Other eye diseases must be evaluated
Some eye problems such as glaucoma, or diabetic eye disease can be worsened when LASIK surgery is performed. Your surgeon should perform a careful exam to look for and treat these problems.
It is probably not covered by insurance
There are VERY few insurance policies that cover LASIK surgery. Most surgeons offer financing if you prefer to make payments.
Dry eyes? It could get worse!
If you are suffering from a dry eye condition then LASIK surgery could make it worse. Ideally you will need to get the dry eye condition treated first and then go in for the surgery.
High Astigmatism or severe nearsightedness not 100% corrected
While most LASIK surgery procedures will correct astigmatism and nearsightedness, extremely high degrees of ‘refractive error’ may not be completely corrected. Other surgeries are available if LASIK will not work for you.
Stop using contacts
You will need to be prepared to stop wearing contacts at least 1-4 weeks before the actual LASIK surgery date. Gas permeable lenses require the most time out of lenses. Extended wearing of lenses can alter the corneal shape which can impact the results of surgery.
No more makeup
Yes, you will need to stop using perfume or makeup or even cream bases the day prior to LASIK surgery. With these products debris can cause inflammation, which can lead to haze or scarring.
Other eye diseases must be evaluated
Some eye problems such as glaucoma, or diabetic eye disease can be worsened when LASIK surgery is performed. Your surgeon should perform a careful exam to look for and treat these problems.
It is probably not covered by insurance
There are VERY few insurance policies that cover LASIK surgery. Most surgeons offer financing if you prefer to make payments.
Dry eyes? It could get worse!
If you are suffering from a dry eye condition then LASIK surgery could make it worse. Ideally you will need to get the dry eye condition treated first and then go in for the surgery.
High Astigmatism or severe nearsightedness not 100% corrected
While most LASIK surgery procedures will correct astigmatism and nearsightedness, extremely high degrees of ‘refractive error’ may not be completely corrected. Other surgeries are available if LASIK will not work for you.
How Does BOTOX Injection Treatment Work?
Before you decide to have a Botox injection treatment, it's best if you would know how it works first. Finding out all the necessary information you'll need to know about the treatment will help you determine if it is the right one for you.
There are so many factors that you'll need to give thought to before you can finally say that this particular treatment will suit all your needs. Facial cosmetic treatments and procedures are all over the market; you can't just buy this and that, and expect them all to work on you.
In case of Botox treatments, it's considered to be one of the safest non cosmetic procedures ever created. If you want to know more about the product, its treatment and how it will benefit you, you need to have a consultation done with the most competent doctor in town. Finding the best doctor that will do your treatments is also very important.
During the consultation, you will also be evaluated if you can qualify as a good candidate. While you're at it, fire out all your questions and have your doctor answer all of them. It's better to discuss all of your concerns to determine if you are really all for it.
A good doctor will do his job and will tell you everything you'll need to know about the procedure. One of the important things that your doctor will discuss and explain to you is "how does Botox work?"
Your doctor can explain this thing to you in two different ways. One way is medically, the second is scientifically. You can always ask him to speak English and explain this particular matter to you in the simplest way.
The injections work by blocking the nerve impulses to reach the tiny muscles on your face that causes all of your facial lines. It paralyzes the tiny facial muscles on your face and keep them from contracting. He may also discuss with you that the treatments are not only limited to the reduction and the total elimination of your facial line and other skin imperfections.
Treatments can also offer you lip augmentation. This treatment will give you fuller, sexier and more defined lips. Botox treatments can be used to a broad range of medical procedure. Cosmetic is only one of the many applications where it proves to be rewarding and very, very beneficial.
There are so many factors that you'll need to give thought to before you can finally say that this particular treatment will suit all your needs. Facial cosmetic treatments and procedures are all over the market; you can't just buy this and that, and expect them all to work on you.
In case of Botox treatments, it's considered to be one of the safest non cosmetic procedures ever created. If you want to know more about the product, its treatment and how it will benefit you, you need to have a consultation done with the most competent doctor in town. Finding the best doctor that will do your treatments is also very important.
During the consultation, you will also be evaluated if you can qualify as a good candidate. While you're at it, fire out all your questions and have your doctor answer all of them. It's better to discuss all of your concerns to determine if you are really all for it.
A good doctor will do his job and will tell you everything you'll need to know about the procedure. One of the important things that your doctor will discuss and explain to you is "how does Botox work?"
Your doctor can explain this thing to you in two different ways. One way is medically, the second is scientifically. You can always ask him to speak English and explain this particular matter to you in the simplest way.
The injections work by blocking the nerve impulses to reach the tiny muscles on your face that causes all of your facial lines. It paralyzes the tiny facial muscles on your face and keep them from contracting. He may also discuss with you that the treatments are not only limited to the reduction and the total elimination of your facial line and other skin imperfections.
Treatments can also offer you lip augmentation. This treatment will give you fuller, sexier and more defined lips. Botox treatments can be used to a broad range of medical procedure. Cosmetic is only one of the many applications where it proves to be rewarding and very, very beneficial.
Quick Treatments - PhotoFacials
At no time In Beawy History have there been a greater number of quick, "in-and-out" procedures than today. Dubbed "lunchtime" treatments. these procedures can generally be performed in under an hour and cause no disfiguring side effects - you can schedule one for your lunch break and then return straight back to work. In fact, some of these treatments are so gentle that even aestheticians offer them.
Be aware, however, that while these treatments may be straightforward, they are not for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, a medical condition, any type of allergy, are pregnant or lactating, or take prescription or over the-counter medication, your skin may not react well to a certain procedure, or it could even be harmful to you. Before undergoing any of the following, please talk to your dermatologist or aesthetician about whether the treatment is appropriate for you.
Alpha and beta peels
Alternately called "acid facials," "exfoliating treatments," and "peels," treatments using alpha hydroxy (such as glycolic) or beta hydroxy (such as salicylic) acids are offered in stronger strengths by dermatologists and in more moderate strengths by aestheticians.
Avoid beta hydroxy peels and beta hydroxy products if you're presnant, because most contain salicylic add. This is chemically related to aspirin, which has been linked to feta deformities and compucations during delivery.
Here's how they work. Your face is thoroughly cleansed and a thin layer of acid applied. After 2 to 15 minutes - depending on your skin and the acid's strength - the acid is rinsed off. The results are a softening of fine lines, lightening of skin discoloration, a brighter complexion color, and fewer pimples, thanks to the acid's pore-clearing action. Because their effects are cumulative, peels are usually performed in a series of six appointments; every week, or every other week, you return for a slightly stronger treatment.
PhotoFacials
The light-powered PhotoFacial addresses pigmentation problems, broken and enlarged capillaries, fine lines, scarring, and the flushing associated with rosacea. Developed by the Californian dermatologist Patrick Bitter, Sr., this noninvasive treatment uses intense, non-laser light. The treatment usually lasts less than 30 minutes.
Here's what to expect in a PhotoFacial. After you don a pair of protective goggles, a dermatologist or aesthetician will pass a special wand over your face - this wand emits repetitive flashes of light. When the procedure is over, you can get up, put on sunscreen and whatever makeup you want, then continue with your day. Most people experience no redness or dryness, though these are possible side effects. Because their effects are cumulative, PhotoFacials are performed in a series of three to six appointments: every 3 to 4 weeks, you return for another treatment.
Be aware, however, that while these treatments may be straightforward, they are not for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, a medical condition, any type of allergy, are pregnant or lactating, or take prescription or over the-counter medication, your skin may not react well to a certain procedure, or it could even be harmful to you. Before undergoing any of the following, please talk to your dermatologist or aesthetician about whether the treatment is appropriate for you.
Alpha and beta peels
Alternately called "acid facials," "exfoliating treatments," and "peels," treatments using alpha hydroxy (such as glycolic) or beta hydroxy (such as salicylic) acids are offered in stronger strengths by dermatologists and in more moderate strengths by aestheticians.
Avoid beta hydroxy peels and beta hydroxy products if you're presnant, because most contain salicylic add. This is chemically related to aspirin, which has been linked to feta deformities and compucations during delivery.
Here's how they work. Your face is thoroughly cleansed and a thin layer of acid applied. After 2 to 15 minutes - depending on your skin and the acid's strength - the acid is rinsed off. The results are a softening of fine lines, lightening of skin discoloration, a brighter complexion color, and fewer pimples, thanks to the acid's pore-clearing action. Because their effects are cumulative, peels are usually performed in a series of six appointments; every week, or every other week, you return for a slightly stronger treatment.
PhotoFacials
The light-powered PhotoFacial addresses pigmentation problems, broken and enlarged capillaries, fine lines, scarring, and the flushing associated with rosacea. Developed by the Californian dermatologist Patrick Bitter, Sr., this noninvasive treatment uses intense, non-laser light. The treatment usually lasts less than 30 minutes.
Here's what to expect in a PhotoFacial. After you don a pair of protective goggles, a dermatologist or aesthetician will pass a special wand over your face - this wand emits repetitive flashes of light. When the procedure is over, you can get up, put on sunscreen and whatever makeup you want, then continue with your day. Most people experience no redness or dryness, though these are possible side effects. Because their effects are cumulative, PhotoFacials are performed in a series of three to six appointments: every 3 to 4 weeks, you return for another treatment.
Nail Enemies - Misusing Your Nails
Aggressive handling
I can't think of anyone who actually wants to ruin their nails. Yet in an attempt to keep our nails looking groomed, many of us go overboard. We gouge dirt from under the plate, stab at cuticles with a sharp implement (or worse, cut cuticles away), file nails down to the quick, or pull at ugly hansnails. In short, our good intentions can actually damage our nails.
You may pine for perfect-looking nails, or perhaps you couldn't care less how your nails appear. Either way, listen up: The less you do to nails - and the gentler you do it - the prettier they will look, the healthier they will be, and the better able they will be to protect your fingers and toes.
Don't manicure or pedicure your nails more than once a week. Throw away anything with a sharp point - this includes metal nail files and metal cuticle pushers. Instead of digging at the dirt under your nails, use soap and a nail brush to keep nails clean. Do not file your nails so short that you expose the area where the nail bed and nail plate come together.
You mustn't be tempted to pull at hangnails, because if you do you risk removing long strips of healthy skin. Not only are these raw areas painful, they are unsightly and vulnerable to infection. A better way to remove hangnails is to clip them away with a pair of fingernail clippers.
Misusing your nails
Nails can do so many things: open soda cans, pry off stickers, twist in small screws, dig into an orange's peel. Of course, those of you who want strong, unbroken nails wouldn't use your nails for any of these tasks. You know that - as convenient as they are - nails should not be used as a household tool. Doing so traumatizes nail's keratin, causing small or large fissures that lead to breaking and splitting. Fortunately, you needn't spend your days wearing kid gloves. For strong nails, simply try adopting the following habits:
Dial the telephone with the end of a pen or pencil.
Instead of using your nails to pry things open or scrape things off, reach for a butter knife, bottle opener, or a small screwdriver.
Use a letter opener, not your fingernail, to open envelopes and packages.
"Start" an orange or banana by cutting into its peel with a knife.
Nails and water
Ask your favorite nail technician what nail enemy number one is, and there's a good chance she'll say "water." Before I explain why water is the bad guy, let me offer this anatomy lesson: to create a strong barrier, nail cells must fit tightly together. Without this tight fit, nails grow weak and are easily bent, torn, chipped, split, peeled, or broken.
At the same time, the keratin that forms nail cells behaves a bit like a sponge; when exposed to water, the keratin soaks up the liquid, swelling to several times its size. It is this swelling that disrupts the tight fit of nail cells. Try to keep your contact with water to a minimum - you should even consider taking shorter baths and showers!
It is estimated that 15 percent of Americans bite their fingernails. If you're among them, consider one of the "no-bite" products available from dermatologists and pharmacies. These terribletasting liquids are painted on the nails. Try to nibble and you're left with a bad taste in your mouth.
I can't think of anyone who actually wants to ruin their nails. Yet in an attempt to keep our nails looking groomed, many of us go overboard. We gouge dirt from under the plate, stab at cuticles with a sharp implement (or worse, cut cuticles away), file nails down to the quick, or pull at ugly hansnails. In short, our good intentions can actually damage our nails.
You may pine for perfect-looking nails, or perhaps you couldn't care less how your nails appear. Either way, listen up: The less you do to nails - and the gentler you do it - the prettier they will look, the healthier they will be, and the better able they will be to protect your fingers and toes.
Don't manicure or pedicure your nails more than once a week. Throw away anything with a sharp point - this includes metal nail files and metal cuticle pushers. Instead of digging at the dirt under your nails, use soap and a nail brush to keep nails clean. Do not file your nails so short that you expose the area where the nail bed and nail plate come together.
You mustn't be tempted to pull at hangnails, because if you do you risk removing long strips of healthy skin. Not only are these raw areas painful, they are unsightly and vulnerable to infection. A better way to remove hangnails is to clip them away with a pair of fingernail clippers.
Misusing your nails
Nails can do so many things: open soda cans, pry off stickers, twist in small screws, dig into an orange's peel. Of course, those of you who want strong, unbroken nails wouldn't use your nails for any of these tasks. You know that - as convenient as they are - nails should not be used as a household tool. Doing so traumatizes nail's keratin, causing small or large fissures that lead to breaking and splitting. Fortunately, you needn't spend your days wearing kid gloves. For strong nails, simply try adopting the following habits:
Dial the telephone with the end of a pen or pencil.
Instead of using your nails to pry things open or scrape things off, reach for a butter knife, bottle opener, or a small screwdriver.
Use a letter opener, not your fingernail, to open envelopes and packages.
"Start" an orange or banana by cutting into its peel with a knife.
Nails and water
Ask your favorite nail technician what nail enemy number one is, and there's a good chance she'll say "water." Before I explain why water is the bad guy, let me offer this anatomy lesson: to create a strong barrier, nail cells must fit tightly together. Without this tight fit, nails grow weak and are easily bent, torn, chipped, split, peeled, or broken.
At the same time, the keratin that forms nail cells behaves a bit like a sponge; when exposed to water, the keratin soaks up the liquid, swelling to several times its size. It is this swelling that disrupts the tight fit of nail cells. Try to keep your contact with water to a minimum - you should even consider taking shorter baths and showers!
It is estimated that 15 percent of Americans bite their fingernails. If you're among them, consider one of the "no-bite" products available from dermatologists and pharmacies. These terribletasting liquids are painted on the nails. Try to nibble and you're left with a bad taste in your mouth.
Nail Enemies - Misusing Your Nails
Aggressive handling
I can't think of anyone who actually wants to ruin their nails. Yet in an attempt to keep our nails looking groomed, many of us go overboard. We gouge dirt from under the plate, stab at cuticles with a sharp implement (or worse, cut cuticles away), file nails down to the quick, or pull at ugly hansnails. In short, our good intentions can actually damage our nails.
You may pine for perfect-looking nails, or perhaps you couldn't care less how your nails appear. Either way, listen up: The less you do to nails - and the gentler you do it - the prettier they will look, the healthier they will be, and the better able they will be to protect your fingers and toes.
Don't manicure or pedicure your nails more than once a week. Throw away anything with a sharp point - this includes metal nail files and metal cuticle pushers. Instead of digging at the dirt under your nails, use soap and a nail brush to keep nails clean. Do not file your nails so short that you expose the area where the nail bed and nail plate come together.
You mustn't be tempted to pull at hangnails, because if you do you risk removing long strips of healthy skin. Not only are these raw areas painful, they are unsightly and vulnerable to infection. A better way to remove hangnails is to clip them away with a pair of fingernail clippers.
Misusing your nails
Nails can do so many things: open soda cans, pry off stickers, twist in small screws, dig into an orange's peel. Of course, those of you who want strong, unbroken nails wouldn't use your nails for any of these tasks. You know that - as convenient as they are - nails should not be used as a household tool. Doing so traumatizes nail's keratin, causing small or large fissures that lead to breaking and splitting. Fortunately, you needn't spend your days wearing kid gloves. For strong nails, simply try adopting the following habits:
Dial the telephone with the end of a pen or pencil.
Instead of using your nails to pry things open or scrape things off, reach for a butter knife, bottle opener, or a small screwdriver.
Use a letter opener, not your fingernail, to open envelopes and packages.
"Start" an orange or banana by cutting into its peel with a knife.
Nails and water
Ask your favorite nail technician what nail enemy number one is, and there's a good chance she'll say "water." Before I explain why water is the bad guy, let me offer this anatomy lesson: to create a strong barrier, nail cells must fit tightly together. Without this tight fit, nails grow weak and are easily bent, torn, chipped, split, peeled, or broken.
At the same time, the keratin that forms nail cells behaves a bit like a sponge; when exposed to water, the keratin soaks up the liquid, swelling to several times its size. It is this swelling that disrupts the tight fit of nail cells. Try to keep your contact with water to a minimum - you should even consider taking shorter baths and showers!
It is estimated that 15 percent of Americans bite their fingernails. If you're among them, consider one of the "no-bite" products available from dermatologists and pharmacies. These terribletasting liquids are painted on the nails. Try to nibble and you're left with a bad taste in your mouth.
I can't think of anyone who actually wants to ruin their nails. Yet in an attempt to keep our nails looking groomed, many of us go overboard. We gouge dirt from under the plate, stab at cuticles with a sharp implement (or worse, cut cuticles away), file nails down to the quick, or pull at ugly hansnails. In short, our good intentions can actually damage our nails.
You may pine for perfect-looking nails, or perhaps you couldn't care less how your nails appear. Either way, listen up: The less you do to nails - and the gentler you do it - the prettier they will look, the healthier they will be, and the better able they will be to protect your fingers and toes.
Don't manicure or pedicure your nails more than once a week. Throw away anything with a sharp point - this includes metal nail files and metal cuticle pushers. Instead of digging at the dirt under your nails, use soap and a nail brush to keep nails clean. Do not file your nails so short that you expose the area where the nail bed and nail plate come together.
You mustn't be tempted to pull at hangnails, because if you do you risk removing long strips of healthy skin. Not only are these raw areas painful, they are unsightly and vulnerable to infection. A better way to remove hangnails is to clip them away with a pair of fingernail clippers.
Misusing your nails
Nails can do so many things: open soda cans, pry off stickers, twist in small screws, dig into an orange's peel. Of course, those of you who want strong, unbroken nails wouldn't use your nails for any of these tasks. You know that - as convenient as they are - nails should not be used as a household tool. Doing so traumatizes nail's keratin, causing small or large fissures that lead to breaking and splitting. Fortunately, you needn't spend your days wearing kid gloves. For strong nails, simply try adopting the following habits:
Dial the telephone with the end of a pen or pencil.
Instead of using your nails to pry things open or scrape things off, reach for a butter knife, bottle opener, or a small screwdriver.
Use a letter opener, not your fingernail, to open envelopes and packages.
"Start" an orange or banana by cutting into its peel with a knife.
Nails and water
Ask your favorite nail technician what nail enemy number one is, and there's a good chance she'll say "water." Before I explain why water is the bad guy, let me offer this anatomy lesson: to create a strong barrier, nail cells must fit tightly together. Without this tight fit, nails grow weak and are easily bent, torn, chipped, split, peeled, or broken.
At the same time, the keratin that forms nail cells behaves a bit like a sponge; when exposed to water, the keratin soaks up the liquid, swelling to several times its size. It is this swelling that disrupts the tight fit of nail cells. Try to keep your contact with water to a minimum - you should even consider taking shorter baths and showers!
It is estimated that 15 percent of Americans bite their fingernails. If you're among them, consider one of the "no-bite" products available from dermatologists and pharmacies. These terribletasting liquids are painted on the nails. Try to nibble and you're left with a bad taste in your mouth.
Diet as Acne Treatment
A lot of acne or severe acne may make your skin look really bad. People try to make a lot of efforts by visiting a dermatologist, applying topical creams and eating pills. However, it gets very disappointing when results are not so obvious.
Experts in the field of skin treatment firmly believe that alteration in one's diet can actually improve skin structure and treat acne. Switching over to a healthy diet can even prevent acne from occurring.
What you eat and drink can have a great affect on your acne condition. Most people do not drink adequate amount of water. This makes their body and skin dehydrated. They do not realize this. It is important to drink at least eight glasses of water on a daily basis. This is the best and easiest method of keeping your skin healthy.
Another important thing is to have a low fat diet that includes a lot of vegetables and fruits. Try to stay away from junk food, chocolate and carbonated drinks. These can result in out-break of acne or even worsen acne conditions.
Poor quality food or any kind of allergic reactions to certain food items can result in acne breakouts.
Vitamin supplements can enhance healthy eating style. You can include vitamins A, C, B6, E, and B- complex to improve your skin condition.
Here are some diet recommendation for acne affected skin or preventing the skin from acne:
a) Fruit Acne diet
This diet plan consists of an all fruit diet for about a week. Here, you need to take three meals a day that should consist of fresh fruits such as pears, apples, grapes, pineapples, peaches and grape fruit. As far as liquid is concerned, only unsweetened lemon or plain water is allowed. Nothing else should be drunk as a fluid.
b) Abstinence from tea, coffee, soft drinks, and processed foods
Here, one requires to stay away from meats, sugar, strong tea or coffee, condiments, pickles, candies, soft drinks, ice-cream, developed and processed foods.
c) In proportion acne diet
Here, the patient requires to follow a one-week all fruit diet. Gradually, one can start eating fresh vegetables, raw nuts, sprouted seeds, whole grain cereals such as millet and brown rice etc. A short period of fruit diet means all-fruit diet for about three days. The skin tends to improve gradually.
Other healthy diet tips to treat acne:
- Don't eat foods that are high on the glycemic index. Some people develop facial problems when they eat a lot of potatoes. Stay away from foods that contain zinc antagonists. Including minerals such as copper, calcium and iron may interfere with zinc absorption.
- Avoid gorging on a lot of sugary items. This will result in a good amount of breakouts.
- Don't drink coffee. A lot of caffeine will increase facial breakouts.
- Eat a lot of fish, fruits and vegetables.
- Try to eat vegetables raw or lightly cooked in order to get better results.
- Focus on having a lot of water. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
- You can also design a specific diet for acne on the recommendation of your dermatologist.
Practice patience and do not expect overnight results. Don't be harsh on your pimples.
Experts in the field of skin treatment firmly believe that alteration in one's diet can actually improve skin structure and treat acne. Switching over to a healthy diet can even prevent acne from occurring.
What you eat and drink can have a great affect on your acne condition. Most people do not drink adequate amount of water. This makes their body and skin dehydrated. They do not realize this. It is important to drink at least eight glasses of water on a daily basis. This is the best and easiest method of keeping your skin healthy.
Another important thing is to have a low fat diet that includes a lot of vegetables and fruits. Try to stay away from junk food, chocolate and carbonated drinks. These can result in out-break of acne or even worsen acne conditions.
Poor quality food or any kind of allergic reactions to certain food items can result in acne breakouts.
Vitamin supplements can enhance healthy eating style. You can include vitamins A, C, B6, E, and B- complex to improve your skin condition.
Here are some diet recommendation for acne affected skin or preventing the skin from acne:
a) Fruit Acne diet
This diet plan consists of an all fruit diet for about a week. Here, you need to take three meals a day that should consist of fresh fruits such as pears, apples, grapes, pineapples, peaches and grape fruit. As far as liquid is concerned, only unsweetened lemon or plain water is allowed. Nothing else should be drunk as a fluid.
b) Abstinence from tea, coffee, soft drinks, and processed foods
Here, one requires to stay away from meats, sugar, strong tea or coffee, condiments, pickles, candies, soft drinks, ice-cream, developed and processed foods.
c) In proportion acne diet
Here, the patient requires to follow a one-week all fruit diet. Gradually, one can start eating fresh vegetables, raw nuts, sprouted seeds, whole grain cereals such as millet and brown rice etc. A short period of fruit diet means all-fruit diet for about three days. The skin tends to improve gradually.
Other healthy diet tips to treat acne:
- Don't eat foods that are high on the glycemic index. Some people develop facial problems when they eat a lot of potatoes. Stay away from foods that contain zinc antagonists. Including minerals such as copper, calcium and iron may interfere with zinc absorption.
- Avoid gorging on a lot of sugary items. This will result in a good amount of breakouts.
- Don't drink coffee. A lot of caffeine will increase facial breakouts.
- Eat a lot of fish, fruits and vegetables.
- Try to eat vegetables raw or lightly cooked in order to get better results.
- Focus on having a lot of water. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
- You can also design a specific diet for acne on the recommendation of your dermatologist.
Practice patience and do not expect overnight results. Don't be harsh on your pimples.
How to Get Rid of Acne Scars
Scars left by acne on skin appear ugly. This leaves a painful impressions on the patient, people genuinely try to get rid of these scars. They try everything from topical creams, to gels, pills and lotions to remove these scars. Everyone wants flawless skin. However, acne marks may make you feel like hiding your face inside a pillow.
Acne scars develop as soon as you pop pimple or squeeze it out. Popping or squeezing results in a permanent mark at the affected area. The deeper you have peeled the skin, the darker is the mark. Most of the times this action leaves a scar and it gets very difficult to get rid off this scar.
Don't panic if you have already developed an acne scar. There are some home remedies that will help you eliminate these scars on your face.
Here are some tricks to solve your problem:
a) Take fresh juice of lemon. Now dip a cotton ball in it. Pat your face with the cotton ball and let it dry naturally. Some people may find this a little irritating. You may dilute the lemon juice with some rose water or plain water. Let the surface dry naturally for 15-20 minutes and wash your face with water after a while. Repeat this process at least four times a week and you will see a remarkable change in your skin structure.
b) Prepare a paste with some sandalwood powder and rose-water. Now add 2-4 drops of lime juice to it. Apply this paste on your face and neck. Now, let the solution dry naturally. After that, you need to rinse your face and neck thoroughly. Do this on a regular basis to get best results.
c) Applying cucumber juice on your face with cotton wool. This should be your daily regime during summers. This will help cooling off the skin and tighten the pores. Cucumber juice is extremely helpful in making your skin glow and makes it feel fresh.
d) Another popular homemade remedy for removing acne marks into make a paste of apple and honey. First, make apple paste and then add about 4-6 drops of honey. Apply this mask on your face.
e) Wash off after 15 minutes. This paste helps tightening pores and also makes complexion lighter.
There are some technical procedures that will help you get rid of acne scars:
a) Dermabrasion
This is different from micro-dermabrasion that removes top layer of dead surface skin cells from the face. Dermabrasion is actually a coarser method that removes further layers. The dermatologist will numb your face and then remove layers. The recovery time takes about a couple of weeks. Your skin will scab. Once the scab falls, you will get fresh and glowing skin.
b) Laser resurfacing This is a method that cleans away pimples and get rid of acne scars. The use of laser is prominent in this method. CO2 laser and YAG laser are the two lasers used commonly in this procedure. This procedure removes the top layers of the skin that has been damaged. The recovery time is a couple of weeks. Your doctor may also apply a topical ointment for speeding up the recovery process.
c) Augmentation
Here, the dermatologist injects fillers usually collagen under the skin. This smoothens acne scarred area. The doctor may take fat from other places in your body and inject instead of collagen. The recovery period is fast.
Always consult a dermatologist prior to deciding on a treatment for acne.
Acne scars develop as soon as you pop pimple or squeeze it out. Popping or squeezing results in a permanent mark at the affected area. The deeper you have peeled the skin, the darker is the mark. Most of the times this action leaves a scar and it gets very difficult to get rid off this scar.
Don't panic if you have already developed an acne scar. There are some home remedies that will help you eliminate these scars on your face.
Here are some tricks to solve your problem:
a) Take fresh juice of lemon. Now dip a cotton ball in it. Pat your face with the cotton ball and let it dry naturally. Some people may find this a little irritating. You may dilute the lemon juice with some rose water or plain water. Let the surface dry naturally for 15-20 minutes and wash your face with water after a while. Repeat this process at least four times a week and you will see a remarkable change in your skin structure.
b) Prepare a paste with some sandalwood powder and rose-water. Now add 2-4 drops of lime juice to it. Apply this paste on your face and neck. Now, let the solution dry naturally. After that, you need to rinse your face and neck thoroughly. Do this on a regular basis to get best results.
c) Applying cucumber juice on your face with cotton wool. This should be your daily regime during summers. This will help cooling off the skin and tighten the pores. Cucumber juice is extremely helpful in making your skin glow and makes it feel fresh.
d) Another popular homemade remedy for removing acne marks into make a paste of apple and honey. First, make apple paste and then add about 4-6 drops of honey. Apply this mask on your face.
e) Wash off after 15 minutes. This paste helps tightening pores and also makes complexion lighter.
There are some technical procedures that will help you get rid of acne scars:
a) Dermabrasion
This is different from micro-dermabrasion that removes top layer of dead surface skin cells from the face. Dermabrasion is actually a coarser method that removes further layers. The dermatologist will numb your face and then remove layers. The recovery time takes about a couple of weeks. Your skin will scab. Once the scab falls, you will get fresh and glowing skin.
b) Laser resurfacing This is a method that cleans away pimples and get rid of acne scars. The use of laser is prominent in this method. CO2 laser and YAG laser are the two lasers used commonly in this procedure. This procedure removes the top layers of the skin that has been damaged. The recovery time is a couple of weeks. Your doctor may also apply a topical ointment for speeding up the recovery process.
c) Augmentation
Here, the dermatologist injects fillers usually collagen under the skin. This smoothens acne scarred area. The doctor may take fat from other places in your body and inject instead of collagen. The recovery period is fast.
Always consult a dermatologist prior to deciding on a treatment for acne.
Myths Regarding Acne
Acne is a common skin problem. People try several remedies both home made and those available widely on the market for eliminating this problem. The sad part is that there are several misconception associated with this disease. If you want to understand acne better, you need to sort it out through fact and fiction. Here are some common acne myths and the parts related to it.
Myth 1: Acne results due to irregular cleansing of skin.
Fact: You should understand that acne is not caused due to unhygienic skin conditions. Acne is a disorder of hair follicle, biologically known as pilosebaceous unit. The follicle has a tendency to trap a lot of oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. The results are in impaction. In case, the follicle wall ruptures, inflammation occurs thereby, resulting in a pimple. So acne is not created due to lack of cleansing. Remember that frequent cleansing will not heal this disorder. On the contrary, washing the face too often will irritate acne.
Myth 2: A lot of topical medication will clear acne fast.
Fact: It is important to know that slathering a lot of medication is not going to heal acne any faster. Experts feel that using too many acne medications frequently and more than one at a time will harm your skin. Your skin can even suffer from peeling, redness, excessive dryness and or irritation. Try to use the exact directions given on the meditation label carefully. You need to exercise patience as it takes a lot of time to see results. Contact a doctor if you don't see any results after using over-the-counter treatments for several months.
Myth 3: Dirt trapped inside the pore results in black heads.
Fact: A blackhead is actually a collection of dead skin cells and sebum that has created a worm-like plug inside the pore. The top portion of this impaction is not covered by a layer of dead skin cells. It is actually exposed to air. The black top of a blackhead is misunderstood as dirt. Exposure to air changes the oil impaction in to a dark brown or black color. The process is much similar to a slice apple exposed to air that turns brown. Blackheads are a result of an excess of oil within the follicle.
Myth 4: It is important to scrub your face on a daily basis if you have acne.
Fact: People suffering from acne like to scrub their face frequently in the hope that scrubbing will get rid of this problem. They believe that cleansing the pores deeply will provide them a clean feeling. They try all sort of stuff from washcloths cleansers to scrubs. This never helps. It actually results in irritations that makes the skin worse and also create some degree of inflammation. The best thing to do is to treat your skin very gently. This reduces friction and irritation of the skin. You should stay away from excessive rubbing or manipulation of the skin. Don't rub your face unnecessary. Avoid leaning the face on a hand and excessive use of telephone.
Myth 5: You can't do anything about acne.
Fact: There are wide varieties of different treatment options available to teat acne these days. You can go for topical creams, oral medications and a lot more. Visit a dermatologist for verifying the treatment that's suit you the best.
Myth 1: Acne results due to irregular cleansing of skin.
Fact: You should understand that acne is not caused due to unhygienic skin conditions. Acne is a disorder of hair follicle, biologically known as pilosebaceous unit. The follicle has a tendency to trap a lot of oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. The results are in impaction. In case, the follicle wall ruptures, inflammation occurs thereby, resulting in a pimple. So acne is not created due to lack of cleansing. Remember that frequent cleansing will not heal this disorder. On the contrary, washing the face too often will irritate acne.
Myth 2: A lot of topical medication will clear acne fast.
Fact: It is important to know that slathering a lot of medication is not going to heal acne any faster. Experts feel that using too many acne medications frequently and more than one at a time will harm your skin. Your skin can even suffer from peeling, redness, excessive dryness and or irritation. Try to use the exact directions given on the meditation label carefully. You need to exercise patience as it takes a lot of time to see results. Contact a doctor if you don't see any results after using over-the-counter treatments for several months.
Myth 3: Dirt trapped inside the pore results in black heads.
Fact: A blackhead is actually a collection of dead skin cells and sebum that has created a worm-like plug inside the pore. The top portion of this impaction is not covered by a layer of dead skin cells. It is actually exposed to air. The black top of a blackhead is misunderstood as dirt. Exposure to air changes the oil impaction in to a dark brown or black color. The process is much similar to a slice apple exposed to air that turns brown. Blackheads are a result of an excess of oil within the follicle.
Myth 4: It is important to scrub your face on a daily basis if you have acne.
Fact: People suffering from acne like to scrub their face frequently in the hope that scrubbing will get rid of this problem. They believe that cleansing the pores deeply will provide them a clean feeling. They try all sort of stuff from washcloths cleansers to scrubs. This never helps. It actually results in irritations that makes the skin worse and also create some degree of inflammation. The best thing to do is to treat your skin very gently. This reduces friction and irritation of the skin. You should stay away from excessive rubbing or manipulation of the skin. Don't rub your face unnecessary. Avoid leaning the face on a hand and excessive use of telephone.
Myth 5: You can't do anything about acne.
Fact: There are wide varieties of different treatment options available to teat acne these days. You can go for topical creams, oral medications and a lot more. Visit a dermatologist for verifying the treatment that's suit you the best.
Hair Loss Prevention is Easy
The most common health problem suffered by most individuals these days is hair loss. This is a health problem that affects the self esteem of most people across the globe. Healthy hair plays an important role in displaying the overall personality of a person. Hair Loss can make a person lose confidence and even self esteem in some cases. It can also result in a good amount of stress and anxiety. Hair on the scalp is very important for good looks. It provides an aura to one's overall personalities. Hence, it is very important to get the right kind of treatment at the right time to save your crowning glory.
However, there is no need to panic for the receding hair line. There one several treatments and products available on the market these days to prevent hair loss.
Here are some great tips to stop hair loss. Follow them and save the aura and overall health of your crowning glory.
a) Say no to chemicals
Experts believe that exposure of hair to chemical products is one of the main reasons of hair loss. Frequent use of hair dyes, serums, hair sprays, gels, hair straightening machines and perming products result in breakage of hair. If you are serious about saving your hair, stay away from chemical based products.
b) Exercise
Working out makes you overall health glow. It also does a lot good to your hair. Working out regularly will increase the blood circulation and provide great benefits to hair.
c) Eat healthy
You need to strong from inside to get hair that shine with health. Eat a lot of fresh fruits and salads to promote hair growth. Include Soya products, sprouts, spinach, cabbage, carrots, fish, chicken, dairy products and papaya to promote hair growth prevent hair loss.
d) Vitamin Supplements
Including vitamin supplements will help a great deal in preventing hair loss. Include supplements of vitamin A, C, B and E in your diet to provide good health to your hair. Biotin is a good vitamin for promoting hair growth. Make sure that you consult a trained health care practitioners or trichologist before including vitamin supplements in your diet for supporting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
e) Pillow cases
Change your pillow cases. Switch over to satin pillow cases as these reduce friction and prevent hair loss.
f) Hair Style
Keep a note on the kind of hair style that you are using. Don't tie your hair tightly. Avoid using harsh hair accessories.
g) Dandruff Check
Dandruff can be the main cause for hair loss. Let your doctor or trichologist prescribe a special shampoo or medication to remove dandruff. Once your scalp is dandruff free, there would be no hair fall.
h) Take care of your health
Visit a doctor and get a routine check up. He may ask you to go for a blood test. Once an illness is detected, make sure that you take opt medication and wait for the results.
i) Be kind to your hair
Don't expose your hair to harmful ultra-violet rays, chemical dyes and complicated hairstyles.
Follow the tips mentioned above and you would prevent hair loss. It is equally important to consult a hair loss expert before using a product to prevent hair loss. All the tips mentioned above will be useless if you don't talk to a professional. The professional will definitely help you with your hair loss prevention plan.
However, there is no need to panic for the receding hair line. There one several treatments and products available on the market these days to prevent hair loss.
Here are some great tips to stop hair loss. Follow them and save the aura and overall health of your crowning glory.
a) Say no to chemicals
Experts believe that exposure of hair to chemical products is one of the main reasons of hair loss. Frequent use of hair dyes, serums, hair sprays, gels, hair straightening machines and perming products result in breakage of hair. If you are serious about saving your hair, stay away from chemical based products.
b) Exercise
Working out makes you overall health glow. It also does a lot good to your hair. Working out regularly will increase the blood circulation and provide great benefits to hair.
c) Eat healthy
You need to strong from inside to get hair that shine with health. Eat a lot of fresh fruits and salads to promote hair growth. Include Soya products, sprouts, spinach, cabbage, carrots, fish, chicken, dairy products and papaya to promote hair growth prevent hair loss.
d) Vitamin Supplements
Including vitamin supplements will help a great deal in preventing hair loss. Include supplements of vitamin A, C, B and E in your diet to provide good health to your hair. Biotin is a good vitamin for promoting hair growth. Make sure that you consult a trained health care practitioners or trichologist before including vitamin supplements in your diet for supporting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
e) Pillow cases
Change your pillow cases. Switch over to satin pillow cases as these reduce friction and prevent hair loss.
f) Hair Style
Keep a note on the kind of hair style that you are using. Don't tie your hair tightly. Avoid using harsh hair accessories.
g) Dandruff Check
Dandruff can be the main cause for hair loss. Let your doctor or trichologist prescribe a special shampoo or medication to remove dandruff. Once your scalp is dandruff free, there would be no hair fall.
h) Take care of your health
Visit a doctor and get a routine check up. He may ask you to go for a blood test. Once an illness is detected, make sure that you take opt medication and wait for the results.
i) Be kind to your hair
Don't expose your hair to harmful ultra-violet rays, chemical dyes and complicated hairstyles.
Follow the tips mentioned above and you would prevent hair loss. It is equally important to consult a hair loss expert before using a product to prevent hair loss. All the tips mentioned above will be useless if you don't talk to a professional. The professional will definitely help you with your hair loss prevention plan.
Cheap Male Baldness Treatments Not Seen On Television
Male baldness treatments seem to be everywhere now. You look on television and boom there's a new way to regrow hair within 2 to 6 months and there are real live people to back it up. Only problem is it costs $150.00 for a 2-month supply. What can you do to treat your hair loss without paying so much money?
The best male baldness treatments are what's found in nature. Naturally treating hair loss has been found to be the ultimate solution for many. When you use natural male baldness treatments, you do away with side effects, regrow hair faster, and you keep more money in your pockets.
Here are a few baldness treatments you can start with right this minute that will help.
-Purchase Saw Palmetto. It's not only great for a healthy prostate but it blocks a bad hormone called dihydrotestosterone or DHT. DHT is the leading culprit for male pattern baldness. Simply take 1500 mg daily of Saw Palmetto and you can keep DHT at bay.
-Purchase Biotin. Biotin does for hair what plant food does for plants, it makes it grow. Biotin is available in any local nutrition store.
-Avoid hair gel. It's true, some hair gels contain hair killing ingredients. If you must use hair gel find a hair gel containing aloe vera. Aloe vera is a natural healing agent and will not damage hair follicles and cause male baldness to take place.
Not all male baldness treatments are the latest crazes on television. By following what is outlined you will regrow your hair successfully.
The best male baldness treatments are what's found in nature. Naturally treating hair loss has been found to be the ultimate solution for many. When you use natural male baldness treatments, you do away with side effects, regrow hair faster, and you keep more money in your pockets.
Here are a few baldness treatments you can start with right this minute that will help.
-Purchase Saw Palmetto. It's not only great for a healthy prostate but it blocks a bad hormone called dihydrotestosterone or DHT. DHT is the leading culprit for male pattern baldness. Simply take 1500 mg daily of Saw Palmetto and you can keep DHT at bay.
-Purchase Biotin. Biotin does for hair what plant food does for plants, it makes it grow. Biotin is available in any local nutrition store.
-Avoid hair gel. It's true, some hair gels contain hair killing ingredients. If you must use hair gel find a hair gel containing aloe vera. Aloe vera is a natural healing agent and will not damage hair follicles and cause male baldness to take place.
Not all male baldness treatments are the latest crazes on television. By following what is outlined you will regrow your hair successfully.
What Causes Acne?
When it comes to the perfect answer for 'what causes acne', experts will just give a plain answer and it goes like - 'the exact cause of acne is not known'.
Acne is actually the visible end result of hormonal, bacterial and inflammatory disturbances that occur at the level of pilosebaceous follicle or oil pore.
For most people who suffer from acne, it begins at puberty. During this stage, human body starts producing some hormones known as androgens. These help in enlargement and extra stimulation of the sebaceous glands in people prone to acne. Some women may get acne during their menstrual cycle or pregnancy due to sensitivity to these androgens. The over production of sebum by sebaceous glands tends to mixing the oil with dead skin cells and bacteria on the surface of the skin. This results in blockage of pores.
Bacteria multiplies in these blocked pores and result in inflammation that ultimately leads to the spots and pustules associated with acne. Most people apply harsh materials on their skin to get rid of acne but make it grow worse.
The acne bacteria, biologically known as propionobacterium acnes tend to grow and multiply the retained oil. The sebum acts as a source of nutrition for the bacteria. The bacteria release chemicals inside the pore. The chemicals work towards alerting and alluring white cells from the blood. This leads to inflammation. You can see inflammation on the skin in the form of pimples or zits.
Once these inflamed hair follicles and glands enlarge, the surrounding skin becomes inflamed and also results in larger lumps and cysts known as nodules.
Inflammation of skin can also result in damage of cells that create collagen. When collagen production is reduced, the skin thins and seen as depressed scars.
Here are some common causes of acne:
a) Stress
Excess stress can increase the production of acne enhancing hormones such as cortisol. This aggravates the skin of these having acne.
b) Genes
Acne is often genetic.
c) Medication and Steroids
Certain medication and steroids tend to aggravate acne.
d) Heavy or oily make up
A lot of makeup or oily makeup can clog the pores with harsh chemicals, giving an opportunity to bacterial growth and multiplication.
e) Over abrasive cleansing
Most astringent based facial products can dry out the skin resulting in over production of sebum. Using harsh exfoliation can also damage existing spots and spread infection.
f) Playing hard
Most people try to pick or squeeze blackheads, whiteheads and spots that can result in deeper infection in to the skin, causing scarring.
g) Inflammation
Inflamed skin is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling and discomfort. It occurs due to the immune system of the body that acts to get rid of a foreign element.
h) Rupturing of wall
The walls of the blocked follicle usually rupture. Oil, dead skin cells and bacteria usually found on the surface of the skin and irritate it. This results in small areas of inflammation.
i) Deeper a blockage of pores
Deeper blockage of pores results in a damage path. This way, the oil gets collected in the skin resulting in small flesh colored or white colored bumps. Whiteheads usually result in red colored inflammations known as pimples or zits.
Acne is actually the visible end result of hormonal, bacterial and inflammatory disturbances that occur at the level of pilosebaceous follicle or oil pore.
For most people who suffer from acne, it begins at puberty. During this stage, human body starts producing some hormones known as androgens. These help in enlargement and extra stimulation of the sebaceous glands in people prone to acne. Some women may get acne during their menstrual cycle or pregnancy due to sensitivity to these androgens. The over production of sebum by sebaceous glands tends to mixing the oil with dead skin cells and bacteria on the surface of the skin. This results in blockage of pores.
Bacteria multiplies in these blocked pores and result in inflammation that ultimately leads to the spots and pustules associated with acne. Most people apply harsh materials on their skin to get rid of acne but make it grow worse.
The acne bacteria, biologically known as propionobacterium acnes tend to grow and multiply the retained oil. The sebum acts as a source of nutrition for the bacteria. The bacteria release chemicals inside the pore. The chemicals work towards alerting and alluring white cells from the blood. This leads to inflammation. You can see inflammation on the skin in the form of pimples or zits.
Once these inflamed hair follicles and glands enlarge, the surrounding skin becomes inflamed and also results in larger lumps and cysts known as nodules.
Inflammation of skin can also result in damage of cells that create collagen. When collagen production is reduced, the skin thins and seen as depressed scars.
Here are some common causes of acne:
a) Stress
Excess stress can increase the production of acne enhancing hormones such as cortisol. This aggravates the skin of these having acne.
b) Genes
Acne is often genetic.
c) Medication and Steroids
Certain medication and steroids tend to aggravate acne.
d) Heavy or oily make up
A lot of makeup or oily makeup can clog the pores with harsh chemicals, giving an opportunity to bacterial growth and multiplication.
e) Over abrasive cleansing
Most astringent based facial products can dry out the skin resulting in over production of sebum. Using harsh exfoliation can also damage existing spots and spread infection.
f) Playing hard
Most people try to pick or squeeze blackheads, whiteheads and spots that can result in deeper infection in to the skin, causing scarring.
g) Inflammation
Inflamed skin is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling and discomfort. It occurs due to the immune system of the body that acts to get rid of a foreign element.
h) Rupturing of wall
The walls of the blocked follicle usually rupture. Oil, dead skin cells and bacteria usually found on the surface of the skin and irritate it. This results in small areas of inflammation.
i) Deeper a blockage of pores
Deeper blockage of pores results in a damage path. This way, the oil gets collected in the skin resulting in small flesh colored or white colored bumps. Whiteheads usually result in red colored inflammations known as pimples or zits.
Hair Straighteners - Getting Started
If you want shiny, straight and lustrous hair, the best option is to use a Sedu hair straightener. And as they say 'there are no free lunches'. Using any hair straightener will harm the hair to some extent. But with careful and proper use, there is no need to worry.
Make sure that the hair straightening iron that you choose has ceramic plates that are gentler with your hair.
If you can get your hands on an iron that has a variable temperature setting like the Sedu hair straightener, you can set it according to your requirement and reduce the damage.
Make sure that you use the Sedu hair straightener only on absolutely dry hair. All hair straightening irons use electricity and therefore should not come in contact with water.
Brush thoroughly and uniformly before you start using the iron. This will ensure that the natural oils to spread uniformly and reduce damage.
Use an appropriate gel like a serum to protect your hair from the heat damage.
Start the ironing process as close the scalp as possible while ensuring that you do not burn your scalp. You might want to clip your hair like the way that they do in a salon to avoid getting too close.
Use the Sedu hair straightener on each part of your hair ensuring that no strand is left undone. If that happens, the unstraightened stands will stand out when the whole process is complete.
Assess your handiwork in the mirror after completing the process so that you are sure that you have covered all areas.
If your routine and requirements need you to straighten your hair every day, then make sure that you pamper them otherwise by using conditioner and intensive treatments are some ways in which you can repair the damage that may have occurred.
Above all, choose a reputed brand like the Sedu hair straightener that provides you the option of various plate widths. This will mean that you can choose the model that is just right for you. For long or highly wavy hair, choose a Sedu hair straightener that has wider plates. IF your hair is short and relatively smoother and what you really require is the finishing touches, then opt for one that has thinner plates.
Even though there may exist certain permanent methods of straightening hair make sure that you get those done by a professional since permanent processes are more complex and require skill.
Make sure that the hair straightening iron that you choose has ceramic plates that are gentler with your hair.
If you can get your hands on an iron that has a variable temperature setting like the Sedu hair straightener, you can set it according to your requirement and reduce the damage.
Make sure that you use the Sedu hair straightener only on absolutely dry hair. All hair straightening irons use electricity and therefore should not come in contact with water.
Brush thoroughly and uniformly before you start using the iron. This will ensure that the natural oils to spread uniformly and reduce damage.
Use an appropriate gel like a serum to protect your hair from the heat damage.
Start the ironing process as close the scalp as possible while ensuring that you do not burn your scalp. You might want to clip your hair like the way that they do in a salon to avoid getting too close.
Use the Sedu hair straightener on each part of your hair ensuring that no strand is left undone. If that happens, the unstraightened stands will stand out when the whole process is complete.
Assess your handiwork in the mirror after completing the process so that you are sure that you have covered all areas.
If your routine and requirements need you to straighten your hair every day, then make sure that you pamper them otherwise by using conditioner and intensive treatments are some ways in which you can repair the damage that may have occurred.
Above all, choose a reputed brand like the Sedu hair straightener that provides you the option of various plate widths. This will mean that you can choose the model that is just right for you. For long or highly wavy hair, choose a Sedu hair straightener that has wider plates. IF your hair is short and relatively smoother and what you really require is the finishing touches, then opt for one that has thinner plates.
Even though there may exist certain permanent methods of straightening hair make sure that you get those done by a professional since permanent processes are more complex and require skill.
Building a Six Pack Abs Workout
So, you have your goal insight, your inspiration in place and all the energy to get that ripped stomach of your dreams. Now it is time to build a six pack abs workout that pretty much works your entire mid-section - the smart way.
When building your abs workout you must include not only exercises like crunches, but also, twists and leg raises that will stimulate the lower and oblique muscles of the stomach.
Okay the first step on a six pack abs routine is cardio. At least 30 minutes. Choose the activity you prefer: running, swimming, jumping, etc and get on doing some cardio. This is an important step since it will burn the fat off your body (the number one factor to let show that six pack)
Once you've done your share of cardio, it is time to first work your core abs muscles, those are the muscles that are deep in our stomach and also the most important! For this I suggest exercises like the plank and tucking in your stomach. Pilates exercises are great.
Second, work your lower stomach. Choose exercises that doesn't strain your lower back. For me the best exercise is the captain's chair, but you need some equipment (a bad thing if you are working out at home).
Third, is time to work your oblique muscles. You can use the side plank here, a variation of the plank but on the side. Side crunches are great also, but be sure to use roper technique. Use also the bicycle maneuver, this exercise is according to research the one that triggers most muscular activity in the stomach.
Finally end up forking the upper abs, doing crunches and exercises of that style. Keep in mind that technique is very important. A crunch poorly executed will bring about 50% results.
Start slowly, choose your preferred exercises, and have fun! That's what all about when making a six pack abs workout. Good luck!
When building your abs workout you must include not only exercises like crunches, but also, twists and leg raises that will stimulate the lower and oblique muscles of the stomach.
Okay the first step on a six pack abs routine is cardio. At least 30 minutes. Choose the activity you prefer: running, swimming, jumping, etc and get on doing some cardio. This is an important step since it will burn the fat off your body (the number one factor to let show that six pack)
Once you've done your share of cardio, it is time to first work your core abs muscles, those are the muscles that are deep in our stomach and also the most important! For this I suggest exercises like the plank and tucking in your stomach. Pilates exercises are great.
Second, work your lower stomach. Choose exercises that doesn't strain your lower back. For me the best exercise is the captain's chair, but you need some equipment (a bad thing if you are working out at home).
Third, is time to work your oblique muscles. You can use the side plank here, a variation of the plank but on the side. Side crunches are great also, but be sure to use roper technique. Use also the bicycle maneuver, this exercise is according to research the one that triggers most muscular activity in the stomach.
Finally end up forking the upper abs, doing crunches and exercises of that style. Keep in mind that technique is very important. A crunch poorly executed will bring about 50% results.
Start slowly, choose your preferred exercises, and have fun! That's what all about when making a six pack abs workout. Good luck!
Top Remedies to Save Hair Loss
Hair Loss can make a person lose confidence and even self esteem in some cases. It can also result in a good amount of stress and anxiety. Hair on the scalp is very important for good looks. It provides an aura to one's overall personalities. Hence, it is very important to get the right kind of treatment at the right time to save your crowning glory.
Here are some of the natural hair loss remedies that can work wonders to your hair.
a) Massage
This is an age old remedy. Your grandmother must have been prescribing you this remedy for a long time. You can massage your scalp for a couple of minutes in a day. It will increase the flow of blood to the hair follicles. In some cases, this ritual will stimulate hair growth and also prevent hair loss. These days, you get different types of electric massagers on the market for scalp massage. You can purchase one of these to improve blood flow to hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
b) Aromatherapy
This therapy works better to prevent hair loss and also helps in improving hair growth. It is an amalgamation of six drops, each of lavender and bay essential oils blended in to a base of four ounces of either almond, sesame oil or Soybean in to the scalp. Once you apply it to the scalp, wait for twenty minutes and stimulate the scalp. It soothes your mind.
c) Rosemary and Sage
These are known to be miracle herbs for hair if used externally. You must boil rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock in water daily and then strain the herbs from the liquid. Now, use the liquid to wash hair daily.
d) Jojoba Oil
This oil is a good remedy if your scalp suffering from eczema, seborrhea, psoriasis or dandruff. This oil is known widely for its hair growth promoting properties. It also moisturizes the hair and works as the scalp's natural serum.
e) Aloe Vera
This is also considered to be the hair's miracle herb. Used by Native Americans, Caribbean's and Indians for ages, this herb promotes healthy hair and prevent hair loss. It can also heal the scalp and balance the pH level of the scalp in addition to cleansing the pores. You can combine Aloe Vera gel, coconut milk and wheat germ oil to be used as a shampoo to enjoy the real benefit.
f) Henna
It is a traditional Indian herb. This herb acts as a natural conditioner and is great for maintaining healthy hair. It works towards healing the hair shaft by repairing and sealing the cuticle. It also protects hair against breakage and loss of shine.
g) Psyllium husk
Fiber is a vital source of cleansing. Psyllium husk is a bulking laxative agent. One can use it to remove waste through the colon. It scrubs the walls of the colon gently to remove waste that has been stucked to the walls. This detoxification method promotes hair growth.
h) Nettle root extract
Nettles are rich sources of vitamins A and C. These provide great benefits to hair.
i) Exercise
Exercise may not have direct effect on hair growth but it works wonders to improve blood circulation and eliminate wastes from the body. This in turn promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss.
Here are some of the natural hair loss remedies that can work wonders to your hair.
a) Massage
This is an age old remedy. Your grandmother must have been prescribing you this remedy for a long time. You can massage your scalp for a couple of minutes in a day. It will increase the flow of blood to the hair follicles. In some cases, this ritual will stimulate hair growth and also prevent hair loss. These days, you get different types of electric massagers on the market for scalp massage. You can purchase one of these to improve blood flow to hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
b) Aromatherapy
This therapy works better to prevent hair loss and also helps in improving hair growth. It is an amalgamation of six drops, each of lavender and bay essential oils blended in to a base of four ounces of either almond, sesame oil or Soybean in to the scalp. Once you apply it to the scalp, wait for twenty minutes and stimulate the scalp. It soothes your mind.
c) Rosemary and Sage
These are known to be miracle herbs for hair if used externally. You must boil rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock in water daily and then strain the herbs from the liquid. Now, use the liquid to wash hair daily.
d) Jojoba Oil
This oil is a good remedy if your scalp suffering from eczema, seborrhea, psoriasis or dandruff. This oil is known widely for its hair growth promoting properties. It also moisturizes the hair and works as the scalp's natural serum.
e) Aloe Vera
This is also considered to be the hair's miracle herb. Used by Native Americans, Caribbean's and Indians for ages, this herb promotes healthy hair and prevent hair loss. It can also heal the scalp and balance the pH level of the scalp in addition to cleansing the pores. You can combine Aloe Vera gel, coconut milk and wheat germ oil to be used as a shampoo to enjoy the real benefit.
f) Henna
It is a traditional Indian herb. This herb acts as a natural conditioner and is great for maintaining healthy hair. It works towards healing the hair shaft by repairing and sealing the cuticle. It also protects hair against breakage and loss of shine.
g) Psyllium husk
Fiber is a vital source of cleansing. Psyllium husk is a bulking laxative agent. One can use it to remove waste through the colon. It scrubs the walls of the colon gently to remove waste that has been stucked to the walls. This detoxification method promotes hair growth.
h) Nettle root extract
Nettles are rich sources of vitamins A and C. These provide great benefits to hair.
i) Exercise
Exercise may not have direct effect on hair growth but it works wonders to improve blood circulation and eliminate wastes from the body. This in turn promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss.
Hair Straighteners - Which Are The Best?
With the trend moving towards straight hair, many women yearn for the straight hair look. But if you are not lucky to have straight hair naturally, you need not fret because there are many hair straightening options that you can choose from.
Depending on how frizzy your hair is, you may want to choose one of these options.
Thermal reconditioning is a permanent method that is likely to take about 6 months to show the final results. This method uses chemical ingredients and therefore provides great results. But as with all chemical options, this is not really recommended for those who have hair that is thin, brittle or damaged. This should also never be the first option that you choose since you may not really like the look that you have and may want to go back to your natural style.
Ion Hair Restructuring is a method that was invented in Japan and is becoming popular these days. The technology used is complex and uses a method that infuses ions into the follicles of the hair. This process changes the basic structure of the molecules of the hair. This treatment takes a long time and can only be done in professional salons. However, the outcomes are long lasting and very flattering.
Blow dry is a method that can be used by almost anyone and can be done at home. It involves a simple, but time taking action of brushing your hair multiple times while drying them. This is an amateurish way of straightening hair and unlike the Sedu hair straighteners can never really straighten hair completely.
Hair irons are the most favored of the hair straightening methods and the Sedu hair straighteners have been the most popular. Made of two metallic or ceramic plates, these can be use by anyone in the comfort of the home. And these special Sedu hair straighteners are made to release a concentration of negative ions that helps faster straightening. The Sedu hair straighteners also heat up almost immediately and therefore save a lot of time and electricity in the process. The manner in which you should use a Sedu hair straightener is simple. Shampoo your hair and condition it well. Make sure to apply adequate levels of serum. Take a small portion of your hair and place it between the two plates of the Sedu hair straightener. Applying some pressure, work your way down and let the hair come out of the plates. So not stop till the ends of the hair have also gone through the plates of the Sedu hair straightener. On hair that is relatively frizzier, you may need to run the Sedu hair straightener a couple of times. Make sure that you choose the right temperature on the Sedu hair straightener to get the best results.
Depending on how frizzy your hair is, you may want to choose one of these options.
Thermal reconditioning is a permanent method that is likely to take about 6 months to show the final results. This method uses chemical ingredients and therefore provides great results. But as with all chemical options, this is not really recommended for those who have hair that is thin, brittle or damaged. This should also never be the first option that you choose since you may not really like the look that you have and may want to go back to your natural style.
Ion Hair Restructuring is a method that was invented in Japan and is becoming popular these days. The technology used is complex and uses a method that infuses ions into the follicles of the hair. This process changes the basic structure of the molecules of the hair. This treatment takes a long time and can only be done in professional salons. However, the outcomes are long lasting and very flattering.
Blow dry is a method that can be used by almost anyone and can be done at home. It involves a simple, but time taking action of brushing your hair multiple times while drying them. This is an amateurish way of straightening hair and unlike the Sedu hair straighteners can never really straighten hair completely.
Hair irons are the most favored of the hair straightening methods and the Sedu hair straighteners have been the most popular. Made of two metallic or ceramic plates, these can be use by anyone in the comfort of the home. And these special Sedu hair straighteners are made to release a concentration of negative ions that helps faster straightening. The Sedu hair straighteners also heat up almost immediately and therefore save a lot of time and electricity in the process. The manner in which you should use a Sedu hair straightener is simple. Shampoo your hair and condition it well. Make sure to apply adequate levels of serum. Take a small portion of your hair and place it between the two plates of the Sedu hair straightener. Applying some pressure, work your way down and let the hair come out of the plates. So not stop till the ends of the hair have also gone through the plates of the Sedu hair straightener. On hair that is relatively frizzier, you may need to run the Sedu hair straightener a couple of times. Make sure that you choose the right temperature on the Sedu hair straightener to get the best results.
Hair Loss in Women and Its Causes
Hair loss in women is a common problem. Women are usually unable to cope up with this problem because they feel that beautiful hair is an integral part of overall beauty.
There may be several causes for hair loss in women. Once we find out the real cause of hair fall in an individual, it becomes easy to provide an effective treatment and re-grow the hair from the affected area.
Here are some of the major reasons for hair loss in women:
a) Genetics
Genetics play a major role in the type of hair you have on your scalp. If you have a family history of hair fall then there are greater chances for you to suffer from the same problem. Check with your family and know about the history of hair fall.
b) Stress
Any kind of stress is bad for hair health. If you are suffering from emotional or physical stress, hair fall will follow as a consequence.
c) Hormonal imbalance
If you are suffering from androgen sensitivity, chances are that your hair will fall. Hormonal balance can be a big problem with hair growth. It can ultimately result in hair loss.
d) Cosmetics
Use of harsh chemicals and cosmetics is not good for overall health of hair. Certain chemicals may damage your scalp and eventually result in major hair fall. Excessive use of styling gels, scrums, topical creams, chemical based shampoos and dyes are not good for scalp and hair. These are the major elements of hair loss.
e) Health disorders
If you suffer from thyroid problem or are anemic, then there are chances that you suffer from major hair loss. Hence, it is important to keep a check on your overall health if you want to save your hair.
f) Drugs
If you are on medication, it would be wise to consult a trichologist. Certain drug may interact with the activities of scalp or interrupt the blood flow to the scalp. This becomes one of the main causes of hair fall.
g) Nutritional deficiencies
Deficiency of iron or vitamin A can result in major amount of hair loss. Healthy hair needs good nutrition in the form of vitamin A, C, B, E, foliate and Biotin. Make sure that you are getting adequate amount of nutritional value on a daily basis. Also consult your health care practitioner for prescription of supplements of iron and vitamin A.
h) Scalp infection
Scalp infection may cause a lot of trouble in the form of excessive itching, dandruff, patchiness, flakiness and hair fall. To promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair fall, the scalp needs to be infection free and squeaky clean. Also check your hair for traces of dandruff.
i) Surgery
Any type of surgery that you have undergone may result in hair loss. It is important to consult a professional to find the real cause of hair loss.
j) Radiation / chemotherapy
Patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy may suffer from hair loss as side effect. Consult your doctor in charge to provide you a treatment for hair fall due to radiation or chemotherapy.
k) Hair styles Trying your hair tight or using harsh hair accessories may also result in temporary hair fall.
l) Shampoo
Using a shampoo that doesn't suit your hair type or contains some harsh chemicals can result in major hair loss.
Finding out the real cause for hair loss will prevent permanent damage to your scalp.
There may be several causes for hair loss in women. Once we find out the real cause of hair fall in an individual, it becomes easy to provide an effective treatment and re-grow the hair from the affected area.
Here are some of the major reasons for hair loss in women:
a) Genetics
Genetics play a major role in the type of hair you have on your scalp. If you have a family history of hair fall then there are greater chances for you to suffer from the same problem. Check with your family and know about the history of hair fall.
b) Stress
Any kind of stress is bad for hair health. If you are suffering from emotional or physical stress, hair fall will follow as a consequence.
c) Hormonal imbalance
If you are suffering from androgen sensitivity, chances are that your hair will fall. Hormonal balance can be a big problem with hair growth. It can ultimately result in hair loss.
d) Cosmetics
Use of harsh chemicals and cosmetics is not good for overall health of hair. Certain chemicals may damage your scalp and eventually result in major hair fall. Excessive use of styling gels, scrums, topical creams, chemical based shampoos and dyes are not good for scalp and hair. These are the major elements of hair loss.
e) Health disorders
If you suffer from thyroid problem or are anemic, then there are chances that you suffer from major hair loss. Hence, it is important to keep a check on your overall health if you want to save your hair.
f) Drugs
If you are on medication, it would be wise to consult a trichologist. Certain drug may interact with the activities of scalp or interrupt the blood flow to the scalp. This becomes one of the main causes of hair fall.
g) Nutritional deficiencies
Deficiency of iron or vitamin A can result in major amount of hair loss. Healthy hair needs good nutrition in the form of vitamin A, C, B, E, foliate and Biotin. Make sure that you are getting adequate amount of nutritional value on a daily basis. Also consult your health care practitioner for prescription of supplements of iron and vitamin A.
h) Scalp infection
Scalp infection may cause a lot of trouble in the form of excessive itching, dandruff, patchiness, flakiness and hair fall. To promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair fall, the scalp needs to be infection free and squeaky clean. Also check your hair for traces of dandruff.
i) Surgery
Any type of surgery that you have undergone may result in hair loss. It is important to consult a professional to find the real cause of hair loss.
j) Radiation / chemotherapy
Patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy may suffer from hair loss as side effect. Consult your doctor in charge to provide you a treatment for hair fall due to radiation or chemotherapy.
k) Hair styles Trying your hair tight or using harsh hair accessories may also result in temporary hair fall.
l) Shampoo
Using a shampoo that doesn't suit your hair type or contains some harsh chemicals can result in major hair loss.
Finding out the real cause for hair loss will prevent permanent damage to your scalp.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Broccoli sprouts curb bladder cancer
Broccoli has always been known to fight cancer. Now, a new study has found that eating concentrated extract of freeze dried broccoli sprouts may curb the development of bladder tumours.
Dr. Yuesheng Zhang, PhD, lead researcher and professor of oncology at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, said the study carried out in an animal model provides strong evidence that eating vegetables is beneficial in bladder cancer prevention.
The team led by Zhang tested the ability of the concentrate to prevent bladder tumours in five groups of rats.
The first was a control group, while the second group was given only the broccoli extract to test for safety. The remaining three groups were given a chemical, N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine (BBN) in drinking water, which induces bladder cancer.
Out of the three two were given the broccoli extract in diet, two weeks before the carcinogenic chemical was delivered.
The findings revealed that the control group and the group given only the extract developed no tumours, and there was no toxicity from the extract in the rats.
They found that nearly 96 per cent of animals given only BBN developed an average of almost two tumours each of varying sizes.
And about 74 per cent of animals given a low dose of the extract developed cancer, and the number of tumours per rat was 1.39. The group given the high dose of extract had even fewer tumours.
Though animals that had the most protection against development of bladder cancer were given high doses of the extract, Zhang said humans at increased risk for this cancer likely do not need to eat huge amounts of broccoli sprouts in order to derive protective benefits.
The report will appear in the March 1 issue of Cancer Research , a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research.
Dr. Yuesheng Zhang, PhD, lead researcher and professor of oncology at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, said the study carried out in an animal model provides strong evidence that eating vegetables is beneficial in bladder cancer prevention.
The team led by Zhang tested the ability of the concentrate to prevent bladder tumours in five groups of rats.
The first was a control group, while the second group was given only the broccoli extract to test for safety. The remaining three groups were given a chemical, N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine (BBN) in drinking water, which induces bladder cancer.
Out of the three two were given the broccoli extract in diet, two weeks before the carcinogenic chemical was delivered.
The findings revealed that the control group and the group given only the extract developed no tumours, and there was no toxicity from the extract in the rats.
They found that nearly 96 per cent of animals given only BBN developed an average of almost two tumours each of varying sizes.
And about 74 per cent of animals given a low dose of the extract developed cancer, and the number of tumours per rat was 1.39. The group given the high dose of extract had even fewer tumours.
Though animals that had the most protection against development of bladder cancer were given high doses of the extract, Zhang said humans at increased risk for this cancer likely do not need to eat huge amounts of broccoli sprouts in order to derive protective benefits.
The report will appear in the March 1 issue of Cancer Research , a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research.
Exercise that exhaustion away
Couch potatoes who complain they are tired all the time have an easy solution — a little light exercise.
Regular, low-intensity workouts such as a leisurely stroll can boost energy levels by 20% and decrease fatigue by 65%, a team at the University of Georgia found.
"Too often we believe that a quick workout will leave us worn out, especially when we are already feeling fatigued," Tim Puetz, who helped conduct the study, said in a statement.
"However, we have shown that regular exercise can actually go a long way in increasing feelings of energy, particularly in sedentary individuals."
Puetz and a team led by Patrick O'Connor at the university's Exercise Psychology Laboratory studied 36 people who did not exercise regularly and who said they were always fatigued.
They were divided into three groups. One did 20 minutes of moderately intense exercise on an exercise bike three times a week for six weeks, the second did similar workouts but at a much more leisurely pace and the third did no exercise.
The low- and moderate-intensity groups had a 20% increase in energy levels over the non-exercisers, the researchers reported in the journal Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics.
To their surprise, the researchers found the low-intensity group reported better reduction in fatigue than those who worked out harder.
"It could be that moderate-intensity exercise is too much for people who are already fatigued and that might contribute to them not getting as great an improvement as they would had they done the low-intensity exercise," O'Connor said in a statement.
"A lot of people are overworked and not sleeping enough," he said. "Exercise is a way for people to feel more energetic. There's a scientific basis for it and there are advantages to it compared to things like caffeine and energy drinks."
Many studies have shown that exercise can boost energy, especially over time. O'Connor's team published a report in 2006 showing that exercise can reduce fatigue in patients with cancer, heart disease and other medical problems. This study looked at people whose fatigue did not seem to be associated with any medical condition.
However, low-intensity workouts may be the key to fighting fatigue. After fall one doesn't want to be exhausted while fighting exhaustion.
Regular, low-intensity workouts such as a leisurely stroll can boost energy levels by 20% and decrease fatigue by 65%, a team at the University of Georgia found.
"Too often we believe that a quick workout will leave us worn out, especially when we are already feeling fatigued," Tim Puetz, who helped conduct the study, said in a statement.
"However, we have shown that regular exercise can actually go a long way in increasing feelings of energy, particularly in sedentary individuals."
Puetz and a team led by Patrick O'Connor at the university's Exercise Psychology Laboratory studied 36 people who did not exercise regularly and who said they were always fatigued.
They were divided into three groups. One did 20 minutes of moderately intense exercise on an exercise bike three times a week for six weeks, the second did similar workouts but at a much more leisurely pace and the third did no exercise.
The low- and moderate-intensity groups had a 20% increase in energy levels over the non-exercisers, the researchers reported in the journal Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics.
To their surprise, the researchers found the low-intensity group reported better reduction in fatigue than those who worked out harder.
"It could be that moderate-intensity exercise is too much for people who are already fatigued and that might contribute to them not getting as great an improvement as they would had they done the low-intensity exercise," O'Connor said in a statement.
"A lot of people are overworked and not sleeping enough," he said. "Exercise is a way for people to feel more energetic. There's a scientific basis for it and there are advantages to it compared to things like caffeine and energy drinks."
Many studies have shown that exercise can boost energy, especially over time. O'Connor's team published a report in 2006 showing that exercise can reduce fatigue in patients with cancer, heart disease and other medical problems. This study looked at people whose fatigue did not seem to be associated with any medical condition.
However, low-intensity workouts may be the key to fighting fatigue. After fall one doesn't want to be exhausted while fighting exhaustion.
Eat breakfast, avoid obesity
Those who eat breakfast every morning are more physically active than those who skip the first meal of the day, especially during adolescence.
That's the conclusion of a study in which researchers examined the link between breakfast frequency and five-year body weight change in more than 2,200 adolescents.
The results of the study indicate that breakfast eaters consumed a healthier diet and were more robust than those who skipped the meal.
Five years later, daily breakfast eaters also tended to gain less weight and had lower body mass index levels, an indicator of obesity risk, compared with skippers.
Mark Pereira, co-author of the University of Minnesota project EAT, points out that this study extends the literature on the topic of breakfast habits and obesity risk because of its size and duration.
"The dose-response findings between breakfast frequency and obesity risk, even after taking into account physical activity and other dietary factors, suggests that eating breakfast may have important effects on overall diet and obesity risk, but experimental studies are needed to confirm these observations," he added.
Over the past two decades, rates of obesity have doubled in children and nearly tripled in adolescents.
It is estimated that between 12 and 24 percent of children and adolescents regularly skip breakfast. This percentage of skippers, while alarming, has been found to increase with age.
Dianne Neumark-Sztainer of project EAT said researchers have found further evidence to support the importance of encouraging youth to eat breakfast regularly.
"Although adolescents may think that skipping breakfast seems like a good way to save on calories, findings suggest the opposite," she said.
That's the conclusion of a study in which researchers examined the link between breakfast frequency and five-year body weight change in more than 2,200 adolescents.
The results of the study indicate that breakfast eaters consumed a healthier diet and were more robust than those who skipped the meal.
Five years later, daily breakfast eaters also tended to gain less weight and had lower body mass index levels, an indicator of obesity risk, compared with skippers.
Mark Pereira, co-author of the University of Minnesota project EAT, points out that this study extends the literature on the topic of breakfast habits and obesity risk because of its size and duration.
"The dose-response findings between breakfast frequency and obesity risk, even after taking into account physical activity and other dietary factors, suggests that eating breakfast may have important effects on overall diet and obesity risk, but experimental studies are needed to confirm these observations," he added.
Over the past two decades, rates of obesity have doubled in children and nearly tripled in adolescents.
It is estimated that between 12 and 24 percent of children and adolescents regularly skip breakfast. This percentage of skippers, while alarming, has been found to increase with age.
Dianne Neumark-Sztainer of project EAT said researchers have found further evidence to support the importance of encouraging youth to eat breakfast regularly.
"Although adolescents may think that skipping breakfast seems like a good way to save on calories, findings suggest the opposite," she said.
Frogs may help cure diabetes
Is frog the answer to diabetes? "Yes", if researchers are to be believed.
A joint team of researchers from the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland and United Arab Emirates University has discovered that a substance on the skin of South American "paradoxical frog" boosts the production of insulin -- the vital hormone that is deficient in diabetics.
The researchers have made an artificial copy of the peptide, a protein-building block that protects the frog from infection, which they hope to use to produce drugs to treat the sufferers of Type-II diabetes, The Times reported today.
"We are at an exciting stage with this research. We have tested a more potent synthetic version of the pseudin-2 peptide and found that it has the potential for development into a compound for the treatment of Type-II diabetes," lead researcher Yasser Abdel-Wahab was quoted as saying.
They carried out lab tests on the nocturnal frog that dwells in the ponds and lagoons of the Amazon and found that the paradoxical frog's peptide, pseudin-2, increased release of insulin in cultured cells by 50 per cent.
Type-II diabetes, which occurs in the middle age, is associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity. It develops because the body does not produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to the concentrations available.
However, according to the researchers, more work needs to be carried out before the therapy is ready to be tested on human patients.
"Now we need to take this a step further and put our work into practice to try and help people with Type-II diabetes. More research is needed, but there is a growing body of work around natural anti-diabetic drug discovery that is already yielding fascinating results," Abdel-Wahab said.
A joint team of researchers from the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland and United Arab Emirates University has discovered that a substance on the skin of South American "paradoxical frog" boosts the production of insulin -- the vital hormone that is deficient in diabetics.
The researchers have made an artificial copy of the peptide, a protein-building block that protects the frog from infection, which they hope to use to produce drugs to treat the sufferers of Type-II diabetes, The Times reported today.
"We are at an exciting stage with this research. We have tested a more potent synthetic version of the pseudin-2 peptide and found that it has the potential for development into a compound for the treatment of Type-II diabetes," lead researcher Yasser Abdel-Wahab was quoted as saying.
They carried out lab tests on the nocturnal frog that dwells in the ponds and lagoons of the Amazon and found that the paradoxical frog's peptide, pseudin-2, increased release of insulin in cultured cells by 50 per cent.
Type-II diabetes, which occurs in the middle age, is associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity. It develops because the body does not produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to the concentrations available.
However, according to the researchers, more work needs to be carried out before the therapy is ready to be tested on human patients.
"Now we need to take this a step further and put our work into practice to try and help people with Type-II diabetes. More research is needed, but there is a growing body of work around natural anti-diabetic drug discovery that is already yielding fascinating results," Abdel-Wahab said.
Bad grades? Faulty memory to blame
Defects in working memory — the brain's temporary storage bin — may explain why one child cannot read her history book and another gets lost in algebra, new research suggests.
As many as 10% of school age children may suffer from poor working memory, British experts said in a report last week, yet the problem remains rarely identified.
"You can think of working memory as a pure measure of your child's potential," Tracey Alloway of Britain's Durham University said.
"Some psychologists consider working memory to be the new IQ because we find that working memory is the single most important predictor of learning," Alloway said.
Many children with poor working memory are considered lazy or dim. But Alloway said with early identification and memory training, many of these underachievers can improve.
Working memory allows people to hold and manipulate a few items in their minds, such as a phone number. Alloway compares working memory to a box. For adults, the basic box size is thought to be three to five items. People who have more on a mental grocery list are likely to forget something.
"Since there is this limit, it is important to put in the right thing. Irrelevant information will clutter up working memory," Nelson Cowan, a cognitive psychologist at the University of Missouri, said.
The question many researchers are struggling with is how to help people with this problem, which appears to be closely tied with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.
As many as 10% of school age children may suffer from poor working memory, British experts said in a report last week, yet the problem remains rarely identified.
"You can think of working memory as a pure measure of your child's potential," Tracey Alloway of Britain's Durham University said.
"Some psychologists consider working memory to be the new IQ because we find that working memory is the single most important predictor of learning," Alloway said.
Many children with poor working memory are considered lazy or dim. But Alloway said with early identification and memory training, many of these underachievers can improve.
Working memory allows people to hold and manipulate a few items in their minds, such as a phone number. Alloway compares working memory to a box. For adults, the basic box size is thought to be three to five items. People who have more on a mental grocery list are likely to forget something.
"Since there is this limit, it is important to put in the right thing. Irrelevant information will clutter up working memory," Nelson Cowan, a cognitive psychologist at the University of Missouri, said.
The question many researchers are struggling with is how to help people with this problem, which appears to be closely tied with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.
Depression linked to male sex hormone
Men with lower levels of the male sex hormone may be more prone to depression, suggests a study, which suspects that the testosterone level could affect key chemicals in the brain.
In a study of about 4,000 men aged over 70 by the University of Western Australia, it was found that those with lowest testosterone were three times more likely to be depressed than those with the most.
The research, which features in Archives of General Psychiatry , suspects that the male sex hormone may affect levels of key chemicals in the brain.
Though the researchers said further work was required to confirm their findings, the present study could be used to treat depression in older men by boosting their testosterone levels, the BBC reported.
In a study of about 4,000 men aged over 70 by the University of Western Australia, it was found that those with lowest testosterone were three times more likely to be depressed than those with the most.
The research, which features in Archives of General Psychiatry , suspects that the male sex hormone may affect levels of key chemicals in the brain.
Though the researchers said further work was required to confirm their findings, the present study could be used to treat depression in older men by boosting their testosterone levels, the BBC reported.
Aromatherapy can cheer, not heal
Adding that expensive scented oil to your bath may help your mood, but it won't do much for your health, an upcoming study has found.
Health and beauty companies have made millions off the soothing scents of aromatherapy products.
But like many home remedies, there is no hard science to prove that these smells do any real good.
A group of researchers at Ohio State University decided to test the supposed stress-relieving and healing properties of two of the most popular aromatherapy scents: lavender and lemon.
"We all know that the placebo effect can have a very strong impact on a person's health but beyond that, we wanted to see if these aromatic essential oils actually improved human health in some measurable way," said lead author Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, psychiatry and psychology professor at Ohio State University.
A series of experiments found there were none. And in some cases, distilled water showed even more of an effect than lavender.
"The take home message is that good smells may make you feel better, but you should not count on them to change your physiology," Kiecolt-Glaser said in an email.
To test the impact of the smells, researchers taped cotton balls laced with essential oils and distilled water to the nostrils of 56 healthy male and female volunteers while they underwent a series of tests over three half-day sessions.
To see if the smells could help manage pain responses they dunked the subject's feet in ice cold water.
Health and beauty companies have made millions off the soothing scents of aromatherapy products.
But like many home remedies, there is no hard science to prove that these smells do any real good.
A group of researchers at Ohio State University decided to test the supposed stress-relieving and healing properties of two of the most popular aromatherapy scents: lavender and lemon.
"We all know that the placebo effect can have a very strong impact on a person's health but beyond that, we wanted to see if these aromatic essential oils actually improved human health in some measurable way," said lead author Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, psychiatry and psychology professor at Ohio State University.
A series of experiments found there were none. And in some cases, distilled water showed even more of an effect than lavender.
"The take home message is that good smells may make you feel better, but you should not count on them to change your physiology," Kiecolt-Glaser said in an email.
To test the impact of the smells, researchers taped cotton balls laced with essential oils and distilled water to the nostrils of 56 healthy male and female volunteers while they underwent a series of tests over three half-day sessions.
To see if the smells could help manage pain responses they dunked the subject's feet in ice cold water.
Drinking may boost blood pressure
Drinking alcohol, even moderate amounts, may boost blood pressure more than previously thought, British researchers said on Tuesday. People with a genetic mutation that makes it difficult to consume alcohol had significantly lower blood pressure than regular or heavy drinkers, the researchers found.
People without the mutation who had about 3 drinks per day had "strikingly" higher blood pressure than people with the genetic change who tended to drink only small amounts or nothing at all. "This study shows that alcohol intake may increase blood pressure to a much greater extent, even among moderate drinkers, than previously thought," Sarah Lewis, a researcher at the University of Bristol's Department of Social Medicine, and colleagues wrote in their report published in the Public Library of Science journal PLoS Medicine.
The researchers said there was more than a two-fold risk for high blood pressure among drinkers and a 70 per cent increased risk for "quite modest" drinkers compared to people with the genetic mutation. High blood pressure, which affects more than a billion adults worldwide, can lead to stroke, heart failure, heart attack and kidney failure.
Previous studies have linked heavy drinking with high blood pressure while others have suggested that moderate alcohol intake provides health benefits such as lower cholesterol. The genetic mutation is common in some Asian populations and discourages drinking because alcohol triggers facial flushing, nausea, drowsiness, headache and other unpleasant symptoms. Comparing people with the mutation and volunteers without the genetic variation helped the researchers better gauge long-term effects of drinking, they said. "Reporting of alcohol (in other studies) is likely to be subject to considerable error, and this error may be differential -- for example, people who have been advised to reduce alcohol intake for medical reasons may under-report alcohol intake," the researchers wrote.
People without the mutation who had about 3 drinks per day had "strikingly" higher blood pressure than people with the genetic change who tended to drink only small amounts or nothing at all. "This study shows that alcohol intake may increase blood pressure to a much greater extent, even among moderate drinkers, than previously thought," Sarah Lewis, a researcher at the University of Bristol's Department of Social Medicine, and colleagues wrote in their report published in the Public Library of Science journal PLoS Medicine.
The researchers said there was more than a two-fold risk for high blood pressure among drinkers and a 70 per cent increased risk for "quite modest" drinkers compared to people with the genetic mutation. High blood pressure, which affects more than a billion adults worldwide, can lead to stroke, heart failure, heart attack and kidney failure.
Previous studies have linked heavy drinking with high blood pressure while others have suggested that moderate alcohol intake provides health benefits such as lower cholesterol. The genetic mutation is common in some Asian populations and discourages drinking because alcohol triggers facial flushing, nausea, drowsiness, headache and other unpleasant symptoms. Comparing people with the mutation and volunteers without the genetic variation helped the researchers better gauge long-term effects of drinking, they said. "Reporting of alcohol (in other studies) is likely to be subject to considerable error, and this error may be differential -- for example, people who have been advised to reduce alcohol intake for medical reasons may under-report alcohol intake," the researchers wrote.
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