Rosacea gives dilated blood vessels and inflammation in the skin. The skin is often also infected by bacteria. Most often the face is attacked and especially the convex surfaces of the face. Sometimes also the eyes or other body parts are affected. Rosacea may begin early, but distinct and serious symptoms usually develop as an individual gets older.

WHAT SYMPTOMS ARE SEEN BY ROSACEA

The primary symptoms of rosacea are the following. All the symptoms may not be present always.

- Permanent redness in the skin. This redness can get better or worse periodically.
- Flushing or redness that comes and disappears periodically.
- Telangiectasia - This is a distinct widening of small blood vessels in an area.
- Papules - Small dome-shape spots filled with fluid, often group wise.
- Skin areas with rosasea symptoms often get infected, and the infection worsens the symptoms.
- Pustules or pimples – Sometimes infection makes the papules develop into real pimples. However, if the pimples appear in a hair follicle stuffed with sebum (comedones), they are a symptom of acne, and not rosacea. Pimples from acne and rosacea may exist together.

Rosacea also implies secondary symptoms that are caused by the primary symptoms, or appear later than the primary ones.

- Burning or stinging.
- Placks - elevated red areas.
- Scaling, often associated with burning or stinging.
- Dry skin, often occurring before scaling.
- Edema coming in areas that already has been red for some time.
- Symptoms from the eyes like: Redness, itching, burning, corneal damage.
- Thickening of the skin, or lumps in the skin.
- Distended hair follicles.
- Rosacea in other places than the face.

WHAT CAUSES ROSACEA

The exact causes are not known, but some people seem to inherit the tendency of developing rosacea. People that blush very often seem to develop rosacea more easily. Therefore rosacea may be caused by blood vessels that dilate too easily upon stimulation, and eventually become permanently dilated.

The following types of stimulation may cause worsening of the rosacea symptoms: heat, hot baths, strenuous exercise, sunlight, wind, very cold temperatures, hot or spicy foods and drinks, alcohol consumption, menopause, emotional stress, prolonged use of topical steroids on the skin.

HOW IS ROSACEA TREATED

Traditional medicine does not have any treatment for the basic processes of rosacea, such as redness and the blood vessel extention.

Laser treatment may be used to take away allready dilated blood vessels or skin irregularities by rosacea. The laser light heats and destroys the dilated blood vessels.

When infection is a part of the disease, and papules or pustules occur, rosacea is treated with antibiotics, usually applied directly on the skin, for example metronidazole. Oral treatment may also be used by severe rosacea, for example with: Tetracycline, minocycline, erythromycin, and doxycycline. By pimple formation, you can also use rinsing skin cleansers in the same way as by acne.

On the market you can find several alternative medicines, mostly topical creams, to treat rosacea. These often contain natural oils, herbal extracts, vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants that alleviate inflammation and stimulate skin healing. They may also contain mild antiseptic agents to treat bacterial infection.

Knut Holt is an internet consultant and marketer focusing on health items. TO FIND innovative medicines against acne, rosacea, scars, wrinkles, other skin problems and natural anti-aging supplements for the skin and the whole body, VISIT THIS SITE:—

http://www.abicana.com/shop4.htm

—Free to reprint and reformat as long as the author’s name, his link and his information follow

In an age where fear of water impurities has millions drinking bottled water, and concerns about genetically engineered corn has others searching for “natural food sources”, many people are also wondering what type of products to use for healthy skincare.

We are frightened by the new world we seemingly live in, and at first blush may think that organic or natural is the way to go - as the words "organic" and "natural" in and of themselves engender visions of a time when life was simpler, purer and more wholesome.

This fear often drives us to the multitude of publications promoting organic or natural lifestyles; however once we delve into their pages the information barrage may be overwhelming.

Are soy beans really good for us, and if so do we have to eat five pounds a day to see any benefit? Lemon juice may help bleach out age spots, but is all that acid really healthy for our skin? Can ginseng actually alleviate wrinkles, and if so, why doesn’t every skincare company in the world use it as an ingredient?

The truth of the matter is: organic and natural skincare promotions cannot be trusted in a vacuum no more than any other information concerning our health. It is logical to believe that many substances which are an indigenous part of the natural world around us are extremely beneficial to our health, but let’s use some common sense. We were given brains to scrutinize, analyze and research for good reason.

This is where scientific research comes into play. Unfortunately, high profile abuses by pharmaceutical companies and others have somewhat tainted the word “science” in our society, but we must admit that scientific research has more successes than failures to its credit.

The skincare industry, in particular, has been able to rely upon scientific research with great success, in part, because ingredients considered for skincare products can be researched without the high risks associated with products that are internally ingested.

Skincare research that not only investigates the benefits, safety and effectiveness of natural ingredients, but also explores how these ingredients can be enhanced to give us the healthiest skincare product possible, gives us the best of both worlds – a wholesome natural approach that results in the most advanced skincare possible.

The answer to the question posed in the title of this article comes down to how we feel about the following: Would we eat mold to cure an infection? Absolutely not, but availing ourselves of the benefits of penicillin is an entirely different story.

Copyright © 2005 Alpha Ward-Burns

Alpha Ward-Burns is a cancer survivor and co-founder of Skin Solved, a skincare company devoted to achieving healthy skin through the use of scientifically advanced skincare with natural ingredients. You may contact Alpha at http://www.skinsolved.com

Having tummy tuck surgery performed in Beverly Hills is part of the lifestyle of the rich and famous. It’s not by coincidence that gorgeous people blanket this city from the Hollywood Bowl to Virginia Robison Gardens. A city that is driven by fame and overindulgence of its residents. It should not be surprising that Beverly Hills is home of the cre’me de la cre’me of plastic surgeons.

Pick up any copy of People magazine and you will find stars showing off their new breasts. Breast implants are often boasted about among the celebrities and picked up by the media. But there are many other procedures performed in Beverly Hills that are kept a tight secret. One of the many procedures performed regulary at an attempt to stay beautiful and attractive to the world is known as the Beverly Hills Tummy Tuck.

A Beverly Hills Tummy Tuck is a procedure to remove excessive fat to the middle or lower abdomen. The tummy tuck or the proper term Adominoplasty dramatically reduces the appearance of a protruding abdomen.

Like most Americans that live a modest lifestyle in any major city the term Protruding Abdomen could be commonly referred to as a Beer Gut.

Now this may not be a total and fair judgement of those that may desire this surgery. There are many women who have undergone a C-Section and after giving birth are left with loose skin in the lower abdomen. Having this surgery can and will most likely increase confidence and self esteem.

When I talk about the Beverly Hills Tummy Tuck or any other plastic surgery procedure done with the intent of ones own vanity, I am talking about the false beauty being portrayed that influences many of todays youth.

How many eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulima are the result of pressures from society to look thin and beautiful. I partly blame the media in how it portrays the lifestyle of the rich and famous of Beverly Hills.

I wish people would realize that the many celebrates that influence todays youth, are beautiful yes! but not just because of natural beauty, No but rather a beauty that can be purchased like a commodity. These people have luxeries that the common person cannot afford.

Think how much easier dieting would be if you could afford your own personel trainer and coach, hire private chef to cook all your meals. When you see these people on cameras they have undergone hours upon hours of makeup preperation. How many tummy tucks, face lifts, liposuction, and lip colligan procedures are performed in Beverly Hills will never be known

But one things for sure! plastic surgery is a part of Beverly Hills just as the Tin Man was to the Wizard Of Oz. Without it the stars would not shine so bright.

Dennis Driscoll lives in Northern Michigan. He is a contributing author and creator of several websites. Some of his websites of interest include those listed below.

Your Self Improvement Resource Center
Tummy Tuck Resources and News
Nursing Resources

Cosmetics giant Estée Lauder has jumped on the hyaluronic acid bandwagon with the release of its high-end “Perfectionist” skincare products, the CP+ Correcting Serum and the Correcting Concentrate for Lip Lines.

In recent months, several beauty products containing hyaluronic acid (also known as HA) have flooded the market, ranging from vitamin supplements to injections. With its “Perfectionist” skin moisturizer treatments, Estée Lauder is the latest to validate the beautifying effects of hyaluronic acid for your skin.

Hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in human skin and is capable of holding 1000 times its own weight of water. Although the amount of HA in skin decreases with age, supplementing the body’s natural supply can help offset visible signs of aging. The protein acts like an “instant facelift,” retaining essential moisture in the skin layers to reduces wrinkles caused by dehydration and aging.

The cosmetics industry continues to debate what type of hyaluronic acid treatment is best. As injection procedures are still on the rise – in 2004 there were 882,469 performed in the U.S. alone – many beauty enthusiasts are gravitating towards less invasive HA treatments. Leading the pack, Estée Lauder boasts that its “Perfectionist” skin products visually improve clarity and elasticity more effectively and safely than any injection procedure.

Two products in Estée Lauder’s “Perfectionist” skincare line now contain the high-powered humectant. The company’s own tests have shown that skincare products containing hyaluronic acid can reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles by up to 50%. According to Estée Lauder, the exclusive complex reduces fine lines while also improving the skin’s suspension. After using the products for a few short weeks, deep vertical lines give way to soft, sensual skin and beautifully contoured lips.

Hyaluronic Acid Resource is dedicated to promoting an understanding of Hyaluronic acid, a major ingredient in many medical and anti-aging therapies and to highlighting places where you can safely purchase Hyaluronic acid products. For more information go to E-hyaluronicacid.com

In today’s society where the way a person looks is so important, the misplacement of body or facial hair can be a liability. The problem is not whether the hair needs to be removed, but rather what is the best method to accomplish this goal. Laser hair removal is growing popularity, mostly because it is a semi-permanent solution.

Many people prefer laser hair removal because they see dramatic results from having it done. Results such as a 50% reduction in hair after four months, with only one treatment. With the normal patient needing a treatment only every six to twelve months. Most people also like the fact that when the hair grows back, it is usually sparser and of a finer texture.

While the Nd:YAG method is still in use, there is a newer, less time-consuming laser hair removal method available. This method uses pulses rather than a continuous laser light beam to warm up the follicles. The newer method also removes the need for waxing of the skin as well as for the application of the carbon-based lotion. The use of the pulse allows the follicle to be heated more quickly while exposing the skin to lesser amounts of damaging heat.

One of the reasons that lasers are becoming so popular is that this system is a relatively painless form of hair removal, especially when compared to the more traditional forms of body hair removal. The laser hair removal system also provides excellent outcomes in the face, underarm area and neck, resulting in a 60-80% success rate within two to three visits.

While laser hair removal treatments offer great results that last, it is fairly expensive, especially when compared to hair removal methods that need to be done on a more frequent basis. For example, to remove facial hair, the series of treatments that would be needed will cost approximately $1,000, depending upon where you live. More involved procedures, such as men’s backs or legs will be around $3,000 for the series of treatments.

Laser hair removal provides effects that are similar to electrolysis, but are much more painless. There are several types of laser systems that have been approved for use in hair removal, while they all work a little differently; the premise is the same for all of them, by removing the hair at the follicle.

If you feel that laser hair removal is the right choice for you, it is important to research the facility that will be performing the procedure before you have even one treatment done. Make sure that you check for complaints from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in your area and ask if the technicians on staff are licensed and if there is a doctor or nurse on staff in case of an emergency.

John Mancini has been writing about Laser Hair Removal online and offline for a long time. Visit http://ez-hair-removal.net or http://get-laser-hair-removal.info to read more about matters like laser hair removal and body hair removal.

This is a common condition which proves to be the devil of every girl’s life! Split ends are most often seen in long hair but also found in shorter hair that is out of condition and is an affliction of anyone trying to grow their hair. The problem can be solved with good hair maintenance so check out this article!

Split ends, (or trichoptlosis), are the nightmare for every self-respecting woman’s life! They happen when the protective cuticle has been stripped away from the ends of hair fibers. Split ends are more likely to develop in dry or brittle hair, and typical causes of damage include excessive dying or vigorous brushing.

Once the hair cuticle is removed, it is impossible to replace. Typically the hair splits into two or three strands, and can be as long or two to three centimeters in length. The best treatment is to cut off the split end of the damaged fiber.

THE MAIN CAUSES WHICH BRING THIS GHOST TO YOUR HEAD:

1. As your hair grows, the natural oils from the scalp can fail to reach the ends, making the ends of the hair more vulnerable than the roots.

2. The ends of your hair have had a long exposure to the sun, gone through many shampoos and been overheated by hairdryers and straighteners, which results in dry and brittle ends which are prone to splitting.

3. Not trimming your hair regularly is possibly the main cause of split ends. Prevention is better than a cure!

4. Damage due to colouring when done to excess also causes dry brittle ends.

5. Poor quality brushes and combs can also cause this problem.

It doesn’t necessarily means that have to go to the salon every week to keep your split ends in check. In earlier times, woman used to burn off their split ends themselves! And when I heard this I thought of bringing this revolution again into this Era, brought something new to this fashion & beauty industry so started cutting hair with Candle, its cool, fun & creative! Imagine using fire instead of Scissors, but you don’t have to scared I will not advising you to do this at home and got entry into Records book

Hey! Not to worry, there are easier ways to get rid of your dead ends before they split further… DIY (do-it-yourself) hair trims. Don’t be afraid, most of women do it!

These DIY hair trimming tips are for woman who are happy with their hair; for those who don’t need a re-style, but simply want to freshen things up with a ‘homegrown’ sort of look. Still! If you are in any doubt, leave it for the professionals!

To remove split ends:

Take small sections of hair and carefully twist them in a gentle downward motion. Any split ends will automatically stick out.

Carefully snip into the twist with sharp scissors. Don’t cut right through; just cut into the thickness to remove the damaged cuticles and give a natural layered effect.

Be careful to cut roughly the same amount from each twist.

Remember, sometimes the simplest, and least expensive, ideas are the best. So get trimming!

TIPS TO GET RID OF THIS NIGHTMARE:

1. Use specialist products that are designed to seal the splits temporarily in order to catch any splits that are shorter than the length you want to cut your hair to and to allow your hair to grow a little longer before you trim.

2. Go for deep conditioning treatment every week, if possible and especially if your hair is prone to splitting, chemically treated or treated by ceramic straighteners. Conditioning is mandatory every time you have a chemical.

3. Have a Trim regularly

4. Avoid excess heat and too much brushing and combing and please don’t brush, scratch or shampoo hair and scalp before any chemical service. Never hesitate to Invest in quality combs and real bristle brushes.

5. Do shampoo your hair after a workout or strenuous exercise. The salt from perspiration will erode your hair. If you work out more than once a week, consult your stylist for your particular needs.

What ever you do, if you want to keep your hair long, don’t ignore split ends because, as they split they also break away, meaning that your hair is in effect getting shorter every time you brush it and also means that your hair population is going down!

The above article has been written by Nadeem Ahmed, India’s leading hair stylist. Nadeem Ahmed is India’s one of the leading hair fashion experts and he works at Rex Salon & Academy, Chandigarh. Nadeem also conducts classroom sessions, seminars & workshops on latest hair trends, colors, rebonding for creative professional hairstyling as well. He have entered into Limca Book of Records (Indian version of Guiness Book) by cutting hair with fire, blindfolded, hair cut with cutter and piece of glass and have been appreciated by Guiness Book of World Records. He have featured in most of the leading TV Channels, newspapers, Magazine & leading fashion websites like modernsalon.com behindthechair.com, bosshair.com etc. Coupled with a hereditary passion, Nadeem completed a his diploma from his father’s salon only. It is quite unusual believe it or not he learnt cutting techniques, styles from websites. He is inspired by just reading the interviews of the leading hair stylist on the net and now it has become his passion. For more info visit http://zulfmakers.

Free lance Writer & journalist

One of the problems with skincare is that it is often too late to repair the damage done when it appears on our face or body. Or at the very least, the cost is greater, the road to recovery longer, and more invasive or stronger repair methods are needed.

Fortunately, scientists have developed an imaging system that analyses skin and predicts how it will age. It’s called Visia Complexion Analysis, and not only can it predict how our skin will age, but the rate at which it will. It provides a snapshot of what damage has already occurred, and can thus provide a realistic assessment of our skin. The system looks at the major issues in skin aging - brown spots; pores; the bacteria underneath the skin that causes acne, redness, and uneven skin tone; as well as wrinkles, and UV damage. It’s a great way to quantify the effects of our environment and our current skin care regime.

Beauticians and store consultants are then able to really tailor a preventative program to address problems before they appear on our face. One advantage, aside from the obvious one of actually having products that will be highly targeted, is that money can be saved by not spending on products we think we need - but actually don’t.

This technology highlights the importance of preventing skin problems before they occur. The subject of beauty foods and beauty supplements, and anti aging, is vast. But as a general rule, nutrition, and specifically antioxidants, play a vital role. For example, scientists have found that by drinking blackcurrent juice, the Japanese women participating in this study reduced the bags (discoloration) under their eyes. Their skin also sagged less. And it was the polyphenols, which are antioxidants, that were responsible for this improvement in the dark circles under their eyes.

Blood flow to the face improved, which would also be great if you suffer from a sallow or dull complexion. Added benefits to drinking blackcurrent juice are the boost it will give to your whole body. Blackcurrents are a great source of vitamin C, and have been shown to reduce eye strain.

So don’t overlook the benefits of adding skin nourishing foods to your diet. They can have a more powerful effect over time than the topical skin creams we so often reach for when we want to slow down the effects of time on our faces!

References:
http://www.labtechnologist.com/news/ng.asp?id=59494
Australian Healthy Food, February 2006.

Do you suffer from acne? If you enjoyed this article on a holistic approach to a beautiful skin care program, you’d enjoy these articles on natural acne treatments and acne home cures. Learn natural approaches to treating acne, and why its important to heal it from within.

The largest organ of the human body is the skin. It protects our bodies from the environment, maintains body temperature, excretes waste matter, gives sensory information to the brain and regulates body moisture. We think about our skin more than any other part of our bodies, and we manifest that attention by investing our emotions and about 6 to 20 % of our disposable income into our skin (Lappe, 1996). It is worthy to consider, then, how cosmetic products affect our skin. In this article the psycho-social impact of cosmetics will be examined as well as why cosmetics are deemed necessary. The physiology of skin, how cosmetics affect skin function and the effects of synthetic and natural cosmetic ingredients on the skin will also be considered.

The Psycho-Social Impact of Cosmetics

Our society is preoccupied with the "culture of beauty" (Lappe, 1996) which includes the notion that our skin must always look young and appear free from blemish. Our psychological well-being is often closely enmeshed with perceptions of how our skin appears to ourselves and others. We define our self-image to include the visible representation of our skin to others, so as a result, it has become the "primary canvas on which our cultural and personal identity is drawn" (Lappe, 1996). Cosmetic companies set aside concepts of natural beauty so that flaws such as large pores, fine lines and wrinkles are brought to the fore, influencing our spending habits in pursuit of flawless skin.

In the animal kingdom, most male species are endowed with colourful physical attributes so that a less colourful, but wisely camouflaged female mate will be attracted to it. Humans do not have equivalent ornamentation, so women use cosmetics, specifically make-up, to decorate their faces to attract prospective mates.

The Need for Cosmetics

A cosmetic is any substance which, when applied, results in a temporary, superficial change (Anctzak, 2001). We use a myriad of cosmetics on our skin, from moisturizers to lipstick. Make-up alters our visual appearance by enhancing our facial features through the artistic application of colour. It can beautify the face and be used to express our sense of self to others. Make-up can hide blemishes, scars, under-eye circles or even out our skin tone. It can boost self-esteem, make us feel more attractive and increase our social acceptability in some social situations. Using make-up can contribute to a well-groomed image, which positively influences our confidence, self-esteem, health and morale.

Skin care cosmetics treat the surface layer of the skin by providing better protection against the environment than skin left untreated. Creams treat the skin’s surface by imparting moisture to the skin cells on the outermost layer of the skin. It also forms a thin barrier which traps moisture underneath, thereby preventing the evaporation of water from the skin’s surface. Creams also accelerate the hydration of skin cells on the outer layer, giving the skin a temporarily smooth, plump appearance. Exfoliants improve the appearance of the skin by sloughing away flaky skin, blackheads and some dead skin cells. Astringents improve skin tone and texture by swelling the pore walls so dirt and debris do not collect within. Soaps loosen particles of dirt and grime by dissolving the greasy residue left on the skin from natural skin oils, creams and make-up.

The Physiology of the Skin and How Cosmetics Affect Skin Function

Skin is made up of three main layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the hypodermis. The epidermis is the only layer we can see with our eyes and as we age, remarkable changes occur which are hidden from our view. For instance, the skin gradually thins over time, especially around the eyes. Some cosmeceuticals can minimally re-thicken the skin, but the process of thinning is inevitable. Elastin and collagen, located in the dermis keep the skin resilient and moist, but with ageing these fibres break down to create lines and wrinkles. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation accelerates this process, and since few cosmetics can actually reach the dermis, the idea that a cosmetic can reverse this process is unfounded. The best way to prevent fine lines and wrinkles is to limit our exposure to the sun and ultraviolet radiation.

The skin is a highly complex, dynamic tissue system. One square inch of the skin is composed of 19 million cells, 625 sweat glands, 90 oil glands, 65 hair follicles, 19 000 sensory cells and 4 metres of blood vessels (Lappe, 1996). The outermost layer of the epidermis is called the cornified layer, and is made of sheets of keratin, a protein, and squames, dead, flat skin cells. It is our barrier against dehydration from the environment. It receives its primary supply of moisture from the underlying tissue, since constant contact from the external environment tends to dry out the skin’s surface. When the skin is exposed to dry conditions, the cornified layer can become dry, brittle, firm and if untreated, it can crack and lead to infection. Creams create a waxy barrier to prevent dehydration and keep the skin moist and supple. Underneath the cornified layer lie six more layers of the epidermis responsible for cell generation. The life cycle of skin cells within this layer takes approximately 28 days, so it may take three to four weeks to observe any changes at the skin’s surface from using a new cosmetic.

The skin surface is also home to millions of healthy micro-organisms which increase our immunity to pathogenic, or disease-causing bacteria. Thus, our desire to sterilize the skin also destroys beneficial bacteria, such as streptococcus mutans, and micrococcus luteus . Toners, for instance, are beneficial in keeping bacterial populations down, thus reducing acne flare-ups resulting from microbes which invade and proliferate in the pores. Overuse of anti-microbial agents can produce harmful results when too many beneficial bacteria are destroyed, allowing pathogenic bacteria to multiply unchecked on the skin. The skin also produces antimicrobial proteins, two of which are called defensins and cathelicidins, which increase when the skin is damaged. Perspiration, necessary for the maintenance of internal body temperature, also excretes a germicidal protein called dermicidin to combat bacteria producing body odour. Deodorants also assist in keeping the bacterial population down, thus decreasing the odours produced as they feed on the waste matter excreted by the sweat glands. Research has shown that people who wash excessively are more prone to infection and eczema as a result of ‘washing" away natural bacteria and germicides too frequently (Awake!, 2004).

The Effect of Natural and Synthetic Cosmetic Ingredients on the Skin

A natural substance is any plant or animal extract, rock or mineral which is obtained from the earth (Antczak, 2001). An artificial or synthetic substance is a substance which has been modified through chemical reactions in an industrial process (Antczak, 2001). We use a myriad of cosmetics on our skin, but before we use these beauty aids, three essential questions should be asked:

- What is the composition of the cosmetic?

- Why is each ingredient used?

- Do the ingredients have positive or negative effects on the skin and body? (See glossary at www.organicmakeup.ca)

Many products claim to be safe or even may appear to be safe, but beyond the short-term benefits of using the cosmetic, are there any long term effects from daily absorption of its use? Skin used to be considered an impermeable barrier, but transdermal drugs have proven that the opposite is true; the skin allows many substances to pass through its layers into the bloodstream.

Several factors affect the rate with which the skin will absorb various cosmetic ingredients. The condition of the skin, such as whether it is dry or damaged will increase absorption. Cuts, acne or abrasions also increase absorption. Other ways to absorb cosmetic ingredients is to inhale them, such as with hairspray or talcum powder, or through the mucous membranes. Moist substances are most readily absorbed and powders are absorbed the least by the skin. Many products claim to address a skin issue, such as acne or dry skin, but contain ingredients which exacerbate these problems. For instance, acne treatments may contain comedogenic, or pore-clogging ingredients. Creams that are supposed to treat dry skin may actually strip the skin of its natural oils which are useful in preventing dryness. Some contain chemicals which seep through the skin and dissolve skin oils and defat the skin (Lappe, 1996). A growing trend is chemical sensitivity, which can develop at any time, even after long term use of the same product. The ingredients in many cosmetics cause 20% of the population (U.S. data, Erickson, 2002) to develop the symptoms of chemical sensitivity. Natural cosmetics emphasize more traditional skin treatments with few of these harsh effects, acknowledging that short term beauty does not balance with long term hazards to health.

The health of the skin is dependent on sound nutritional practices, healthy living and effective, safe protection on its surface. The organic make-up co. can help you achieve healthy, radiant skin by offering a complete line of cosmetics and makeup composed of all natural ingredients, with no animal, synthetic or petroleum-based ingredients. Our products are made fresh for you once we receive your order, and contain preservatives such as d-alpha tocopherol (vitamin E), ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and other plant oils with anti-microbial properties.

We invite you to give our natural products a try. Our cosmetics and make-up are developed on the basis of sound, scientific principles and the physiology of the skin. Our products will convince you on their own merit, since they are natural, vegan, and an excellent alternative to conventional make-up and cosmetics.

Please contact us at http://www.organicmakeup.ca for further information.

References:

- Anctzak, Gina & Stephen, Dr., (2001). Cosmetics Unmasked, Harper Collin, London.

- Erickson, Kim, (2002). Drop Dead Gorgeous, Contemporary Books, USA.

- Lappe, Marc Dr., (1996). The Body’s Edge, Henry Holt & Co., New York.

- Purvis, Debbie, (1989). The Business of Beauty, Wall & Thompson, Toronto.

- Awake! Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Canada, February 8 2004.

- http://www.naturalcosmetics.ca

Lori Stryker has been researching and developing all natural skin care and make-up for the purpose of offering men and women safe, natural cosmetics for everyday use. She brings to her research a specialist in human biology from the University of Toronto, coupled with a professional home economics degree and an education degree from the University of British Columbia, fusing chemical and biological knowledge with food, family and textile sciences.

You may use this article but any modification or publication of this article for fiancial gain must be approved of by the author. The author’s name, Lori Stryker and her company’s name, The Organic Make-up Company, needs to by noted when used.

If you have an issue with unwanted hair, you have probably tried the traditional methods that promise results, but may have left you feeling as if you were held hostage by the time needed to stay hair free. If this sounds like your situation, you may be interested in trying electrolysis hair removal as a permanent form of hair removal.

While the electrolysis hair removal method is considered permanent, this does not happen in the first visit. In fact, it can take a large amount of treatments before an area is considered to be free of hair. One reason for this is that hair follicles grow at different times; therefore, some of the follicles will be dormant and are not treated.

It is important to note that while an increasing number or do-it-yourself electrolysis systems are on the market; this is not a good idea, particularly when facial hair needs to be removed. This is because the home systems use a lesser amount of voltage, therefore allowing a greater number of hair follicles to survive and re-grow. Removing hair on the face requires a mirror, which can distort vision and lead to problems.

While electrolysis can be a painful procedure to endure, the use of a pain relieving cream can lessen or eliminate the pain. The reason for the pain is that a thin wire is placed directly on the hair follicle itself and electricity is passed through, therefore effectively destroying the root.

The method of hair removal known as electrolysis began in 1875 when a doctor named Charles E. Michel started to remove ingrown eyelashes with an electric current and a very fine wire. Since that time, electrolysis is the only proven form for the permanent removal of unwanted hair.

John Mancini has been writing about Laser Hair Removal online and offline for a long time. Visit http://hair-removal-central.info or http://laser-hair-removal-expert.com to read more about matters like body hair removal and laser hair removal.

What is petroleum?

Crude oil, sometimes called petroleum, is a fossil fuel that was produced deep in the earth through a process that took millions of years to complete.

Millions of years later, almost all of us come into contact with a derivative of petroleum every day. Through a process called fractional distillation, petroleum refineries break petroleum into many of its smaller components. Each of these smaller components is made up of molecules called hydrocarbons.

The world is full of products that come from petroleum. For example, gasoline, styrofoam, lubricating oils, and many other items are all derivatives of this raw material. How are petroleum and cosmetics related? The two seemingly unrelated items, petroleum and cosmetics, are indeed closely related in our modern world.

Mineral oil and petroleum are the basic ingredients in many cosmetic products today. Both mineral oil and petroleum have the same origins in fossils fuels. Cosmetics such as foundations, cleansers, and moisturizers often contain mineral oil. By locking moisture against the skin, mineral oil sits on the skin’s surface and can potentially block pores. This may cause the appearance of pimples because the skin cannot properly ‘breathe’.

Fragrances in lotions, shampoos, and many other cosmetic products are composed of aromatic hydrocarbons. Perfumes and products containing fragrance can contain many hundreds of chemicals to produce a distinct scent. A significant number of these aromas are derived from petroleum.

One popular chemical additive that carries moisture in cosmetics is propylene glycol. It is also a derivative of petroleum. Some products that list propylene glycol as an ingredient include:

- anti-freeze

- laundry detergent

- paint

- shampoo

- conditioner

Past research links propylene glycol to serious health problems as liver and kidney damage as well as respiratory irritation or nausea if swallowed.

An antiseptic, isopropyl alcohol, kills bacteria on the skin. You can find it on the ingredient list of cleansers, toners and other cosmetic products. Unfortunately, this derivative of petroleum dries the skin and may cause miniature cracks in the skin that allow bacteria to enter, potentially causing irritations or pimples.

Do these petroleum-derived products affect your health?

Your skin covers your body and acts as a physical barrier to many of the pollutants in the atmosphere. When you use products on your skin such as cosmetics, lotions, and shampoos, the ingredients in these products come into direct contact with your body’s largest organ; your skin. You may ask yourself, where do the ingredients in the products go? Modern research at the Herb Research Foundation found that the skin absorbs up to 60% of the chemicals in products that it comes into contact with directly into the bloodstream. Today, hormone therapy treatments and smoking cessation medications are often prescribed as patches that you apply directly to the skin. The medication passes through the skin and directly enters the bloodstream.

For pregnant women, the risk is not only for her body but also for the developing fetus. If the chemicals found in cosmetics readily enter the bloodstream when applied to the skin, then they will also reach the developing baby. Researchers at the Brunel University in England are looking closely at a family of preservatives called parabens. Their research has recently linked parabens to the possibility that male babies will have lower sperm counts. These preservatives are derived from petroleum and help to maintain the freshness and integrity of the product. Currently, many manufacturers add parabens to cosmetics to allow a minimum of 3 years shelf life. Therefore, the parabens kill any bacteria that could potentially enter the product. If these chemical ingredients can kill the bacterial cells, what are they doing to your skin cells? In most cases, there is no conclusive answer to this question. However, the research mentioned strongly suggests that the synthetic ingredients may have a significant impact on our bodies.

In many cases, the long-term effects of many of the chemical additives in our cosmetics are not known. However, other chemical additives are known carcinogens. These types of chemicals can cause cancer in humans. Such chemicals include some artificial colours in cosmetics. The effects of chemicals and other synthetic ingredients in cosmetics may lead to mild allergic reactions causing rashes and minor skin irritation to more significant problems such as lesions on the skin.

What are your alternatives for cosmetics?

Luckily, there are alternatives to cosmetics filled with synthetically produced ingredients. Increasingly, cosmetic manufacturers are answering the public’s demand for alternatives to the chemically loaded beauty and grooming supplies. The Organic Make-up Company is one such company that is leading the way in producing high-quality, organically manufactured cosmetics! As a consumer, you have the ability to decrease the number of preservatives and chemical additives your skin comes into contact with and therefore, that may enter your body. To avoid using the synthetically derived fragrances, look for products containing essential oils. These are pure oils derived from flowers and other plants in nature.

All you have to do is make the simple choice of purchasing cosmetic products with all-natural, organic ingredients. Whether you continue using cosmetics that contain petroleum-based ingredients or not is a personal choice. What is the most important is to get the facts and to know that you have a choice when it comes to buying organic or synthetic cosmetic products.

References:

- Fairley, Josephine. Organic beauty: look and feel gorgeous the natural way. Dorling Kindersley : London, 2001.

- http://www.hans.org/web_articles/h07drugschemicals/h0799whatisreallyinyourhbprods.aspl, accessed Oct. 3, 2004.

- http://www.naturalmakeup.ca

Lori Stryker has been researching and developing all natural skin care and make-up for the purpose of offering men and women safe, natural cosmetics for everyday use. She brings to her research a specialist in human biology from the University of Toronto, coupled with a professional home economics degree and an education degree from the University of British Columbia, fusing chemical and biological knowledge with food, family and textile sciences.

You may use this article but any modification or publication of this article for fiancial gain must be approved of by the author. The author’s name, Lori Stryker and her company’s name, The Organic Make-up Company, needs to by noted when used.