Skin Care
Liposomal Skin Care Is Revolutionizing The Skin Care Industry
Picking the right skin care products can be a challenge, from knowing what your skin needs to the hundreds of choices. The process can be overwhelming, but there’s something you should be looking for when shopping for your skin care products: liposomes. What are liposomes? Simply put, liposomes are a newly popular transportation method for the ingredients in skin care products. More technically, they are unique phospholipid structures. They are manually agitated to form a structurally supportive vesicle. With at least one lipid bilayer, they hold on to active ingredients, nutrients, drugs, and more to bring them past the intestinal membranes into the tissues being targeted. So what does that all mean? Basically, their chemical structure is such that when used in skin care treatments and products, the valuable ingredients are transported better through the skin, making the active ingredients more potent. This is primarily possible because, unlike non-liposomal formulas, the nutrients and ingredients aren’t partially destroyed by digestive enzymes. This partial destruction keeps the ingredients from reaching the cells or blood vessels in their complete form. Liposomal products, on the other hand, help to keep the ingredient in tact and protected until they reach their intended target. Liposomes are becoming an ever-more widely used additive in the pharmaceutical industry and supplements. Their popularity comes in the resulting effects of liposomal products. Because they hold on to these key nutrients and ingredients, they make a product more effective, an especially desirable quality in skin care products. The Benefits of Liposomes Aside from the general benefit of liposomes making ingredients and nutrients able to make their full impact, there are several other benefits to incorporating liposomes in your skin care products. Ingredients Go Deeper Part of the reason liposomes are becoming so popular in skin care products is the protection they offer to ingredients. Tangential to that is their ability to allow the product and the active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin. Rather than simply sitting on the surface of the skin, liposomes make it possible for a product’s active ingredients to get to the deeper layers of the skin. And because liposomes have an affinity for water, that means your skin will be moisturized from the inside out as they hold on to more water than non-liposomal formulas. Slows Things Down An effect of the protective nature of liposomes is their ability to contribute to a slower metabolism in the bloodstream. This has nothing to do with your body weight and everything to do with how the product is retained in the body. By slowing down the blood stream metabolism, ingredients are afforded a longer course so the benefits of the products are greater. Less Is More There are actual financial benefits to choosing liposomal products, namely because they allow a product to last longer in your skin, so you can apply the product fewer times. Even as you use the product less, you will get the same benefits because of the protective nature of liposomes and their ability to slow the metabolism of the blood stream. What To Look For Now that you’re convinced about using liposomal products, you need to know how to find them. The big indicator will be the packaging. While companies aren’t required to refer to liposomes in their ingredient list, there are some ingredients that will be listed that will give you an indicator that the product has liposomes in the formula: Phospholipids Phosphatidylethanolamine Phosphatidylinositol Lecithin If you see any of these products listed, there’s a good chance liposomes are incorporated in some part of the formula. You can also search for liposomal products. While skin care products can lead you into a confusing world of bottles and creams and serums, there’s one thing you can count on: liposomes. They will give you the assurance that your product is going to have a better result and a longer lasting impact. You might also find yourself saving some cash along the way.
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A Comprehensive Guide to Face Acids
In recent years, many have been using new products to help their skin stay soft and younger like never before. These are “acid” products, a term which sounds dangerous at first glance but is actually based on the chemicals found within the face creams. Many of these acid-based skin cleansers are incredibly powerful, acting fast and consistently to keep skin stay glowing and radiant. These products are catching fire because of their fantastic ability to fight acne, wrinkles, aging, and correct skin tone. With the newfound efficacy of these cleansers, the market is more crowded than ever. Here’s everything you need to know about acid-based skin cleansers. Salicylic Acid Probably the best known widely used acid at this point, salicylic acid has been used for decades to exfoliate skin and keep pores fresh and clear of dirt and oily residue. It greatly helps to reduce acne and aids in preventing the wrinkling and aging of skin. It’s most commonly found in serums and cleansers in concentrations of anywhere between point five and two percent. It’s also commonly found in spot treatments which are used to treat specific areas of the skin when breakouts occur. For those who need more thorough and intensive products, to remove acne scars, melasma, or to treat sun damage, they’ll use products with a larger concentration of salicylic acid. On top of clearing skin conditions, it’s also a mild anti-inflammatory, which is great for overall health. Glycolic Acid Not as popular as salicylic acid, glycolic nevertheless is great if you need an anti-aging cream. The chemical is derived from sugar cane and is also the smallest of the “alpha-hydroxy acids” meaning it’s the most effective skin-care product possible for getting deep into the skin. It’s most known for it’s anti-aging properties, but it also keeps skin moist and goes a long way in preventing acne and dry skin, as well as exfoliating skin to reduce fine lines, helping to fade dark spots, increasing skin thickness, and evening out skin tone. Glycolic acid shows up frequently in products in a concentration below ten percent. It can be combined with microdermabrasion or microneedling to treat acne and enhance discolored pigmentation. Although it’s incredibly effective, the use of glycolic acid increase sensitivity of the skin to the sun, so it’s best to use it tandem with sunscreen to prevent sun damage. Mandelic Acid Another alpha-hydroxy acid, mandelic acid is derived from bitter almonds. It’s a great exfoliating agent and is often used in an effort to prevent acne, treat sun damage, and even out pigmentation. Because of the subatomic structure of mandelic, the acid is less irritating than many other acid-based products, including glycolic acid. This is because it can’t penetrate as deeply into the skin; this is also the reason why it’s recommended more for skin peels – particularly ethnic skin – than glycolic acid. The skin is less prone to “rebound pigmentation” when treated with mandelic acid. Rebound pigmentation happens when skin cream is used in excess. Your skin rejects the substance, and it can actually have the opposite intended effect of the cream. Azelaic Acid One of the greatest ingredients for fighting acne every developed, azelaic acid has been a staple of acne creams for nearly three decades. It’s found mostly in prescription creams but is incredibly effective at keeping your pores clear, killing harmful bacteria, and reducing inflammation both on the skin and within the body. In creams which are meant to be applied over the entirety of the face, azelaic acid is found in about fifteen to twenty percent concentrations. Researchers have found startlingly few side effects, though there is some general stinging, peeling, and redness in those with skin which is more sensitive than average. On top of being used to treat and prevent acne, the acid is used as a skin-lightening agent, which is great for fading post-acne marks. Many combine it with retinoids to form a milder substitute for hydroquinone. Kojic Acid Kojic acid is one of the most interesting on this list. It’s actually produced by bacteria and frequently used in the process of rice fermentation. The final result in this process produces sake which is enjoyed by many all over the globe. It’s all the rage in Asia and has been for many years. Its popularity stems from its whining and anti-aging properties. Whitening, in the context of many Asian countries, is a term which refers to the decreasing of hyperpigmentation and reducing uneven skin tone, as these problems are more prominent and severe in Eastern countries. Kojic acid is found in serums and cleansers in concentrations of anywhere from one to four percent. Although the acid is incredibly effective in correcting skin tone and moisturizing the skin, it’s also incredibly irritating. If you’re willing to be patient in adapting to the irritation, it’s one of the most effective ingredients on the market. There are many acids which moisten skin and help reduce acne; some even offer anti-inflammatory properties which is great for your overall health and bodily balance. These acids are all reasonably priced and effective in treating whichever skin condition you wish to treat. You can buy all of these skin treatment products online, at shops like hygieiaskin.com.
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The 10 Best Anti-Aging Foods
Our skin is the body’s largest organ, and often the one that shows signs of trouble first. We can use different creams, and lotions, but our diet is going to have a much larger effect on our skin than those other options. To get your skin looking its best, research has shown that fruits and veggies are your best options. They’re tasty, healthy, and safe. So what do you have to lose? Get that glow back in your skin by trying these 10 anti-aging foods. Red Bell Peppers These are a great source of antioxidants called carotenoids which are crucial for anti-aging skin Carotenoids are plant pigments that can help your skin avoid sun damage and different types of environmental pollution. You can eat them as is, put them in a stir fry or a salad. Whichever way tastes best for you. Blueberries Blueberries contain high amounts of both Vitamin A and C. They also contain the antioxidant, anthocyanin, which helps gives blueberries their color. These antioxidants will help prevent skin damage due to stress, and the sun. There are many ways to eat blueberries. Eat them as is, or put them in a smoothie. There’s no wrong way to have your blueberries. Broccoli Broccoli is a powerhouse food in every sense of the word. It contains different antioxidants, fiber, calcium, and a lot of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is needed to produce collagen which helps strengthen the skin. When the skin is stronger, it doesn’t damage as easily. You can broccoli raw, or steam them. Steaming them actually has more health benefits for your body. But both ways are definitely healthy. You can’t go wrong with broccoli. Watercress Watercress is dense with nutrients. They contain potassium, calcium, and a plethora of vitamins. Watercress acts as an antiseptic that helps with the oxygenation of the skin. The antioxidants in Watercress will help keep wrinkles aways. Throw some watercress in your salad. It’s delicious and healthy. Papaya Papaya isn’t just delicious, it’s also rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. The antioxidants in papaya can help slow down signs of aging. It also contains an enzyme called papain, which is found in many different exfoliants. Papaya will help shed some dead skin and make you look vibrant. Make a big plate of papaya or use it as a mask. Nuts Nuts are heavy in Vitamin E, which can help the skin in many ways. From protecting it, to repairing it, nuts are a great way to keep your skin vibrant. Almonds are probably the best nut for your health but there are many different types that all contain Vitamin E. Eat them in a trail mix, on their own, or in a salad. Don’t remove the skin of the nut. That’s the most important part. Avocado Avocados are a great source of Vitamins (A, C, E, K), potassium, and B Vitamins. Vitamin A helps repair skin, leaving it glowing, while also protecting your skin from harmful UV rays coming from the sun. There are many ways to eat avocado. In a smoothie, a salad, or on its own. You can use it as a face mask. There are endless possibilities with avocados. Spinach Spinach can help replenish the body. It contains different Vitamins, including A. C, E, K, that all have positive effects on your skin. Vitamin C makes your skin smooth, while Vitamin K can help reduce inflammation. They aren’t just great for your skin, Vitamin A is great for replenishing your hair, and making it more vibrant. Pomegranate Seeds There’s a reason pomegranate has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. It contains antioxidants, and a high amount of Vitamin C, which both help replenish your skin, and avoid sun damage. Go 2 for 1 and sprinkle these seeds on some spinach. A delicious treat that couldn’t be better for your body. Sweet Potatoes Beta-carotene is the antioxidant that gives sweet potatoes its orange color. This antioxidant converts into Vitamin A, which helps strengthen skin cells and giving them a youthful look. They also contain Vitamin’s C and E, which both help protect your skin from harmful rays. Sweet potatoes are delicious no matter how you eat them. Cook them up, and enjoy a delicious vegetable with its many benefits. Being Healthy Has Never Been More Delicious There are many different ways to eat delicious foods, and meals while also keeping yourself healthy. These ten foods can be eaten alone, or with other foods, however, you want to do it, you’re treating your body. Fill yourself full of Vitamins, and antioxidants, and let your taste buds run wild in the process.
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11 Myths About Retinol Products
In the last few years, there’s been a craze in the skincare industry. Retinols are all the rage and have found to be effective in improving the texture of skin, along with pigmentation and tone. Although retinols are being used voraciously by the skincare community, there still exist a number of questions and false information about their use and efficacy. Here are eleven myths about retinol and the correct answers. All Retinol Products Are the Same While this is half true, this view discards the nuance and complexity of retinols. There are two categories of retinol products – prescription and non-prescription. Prescription retinol products use retinoic acid, an ingredient which fights visible aging and keeps skin young and smooth. Those which don’t require a prescription will instead use a derivative of vitamin A, which is gentler on the skin but does perform the same function from a chemical perspective. Prescription retinols are stronger but non-prescription products will get the job done just fine. Retinoids Exfoliate the Skin This can be an easy mistake to make, as many people who use retinoids experience redness and peeling of the skin. However, these symptoms are merely side effects of irritation and don’t act like a true exfoliation, which comes from glycolic acid. Instead, retinoids function by changing gene expression, adding collagen production, and smoothing skin at the microscopic level, including the evening of pigmentation. Don’t Wear Retinoids During the Day Many believe that retinoids will break down during the day, causing sunburn and increased skin irritation. This is mostly untrue, however. While retinoids do in fact “break down” during the day and become less active and effective, they will not make your skin more prone to sunburn or other such irritations. It’s still best to wear retinoids at night to maximize their efficacy, but you don’t have to worry about skin damage if you use them during the day. Retinoids Should Always Be Applied to Dry Skin Although most packaging comes with instruction to apply retinoids to dry skin only, there’s actually no scientific evidence that applying retinoids to moist skin will irritate that skin or reduce effectiveness. It’s perfectly fine to apply retinoids to moist skin, as absorption rates aren’t impacted by skin conditions of any type, at least according to the current literature. The absorption rate is solely dependent on skin chemistry and retinoid receptors. You’ll Need to Wait Five Weeks to See Results This myth is actually false in a negative direction. Most retinoids work only after about ten to twelve weeks of use. The formulas these products use is powerful, but it takes time for the proper chemical reactions to take place. Whether you’re buying your retinoids through a prescription or not, the average time you’ll need to wait is about twelve weeks before you see results. Gentle Retinoids Are Equally Effective as Strong Ones If the product for your skin is labeled for “sensitive skin” that means there’s most likely a lower dosage of active ingredients within the product. Any product with a lower concentration of active ingredients will generally be less effective than those with higher amounts. However, “sensitive skin” products are great for letting your skin tolerate treatments before moving on to products with a higher dosage of active ingredients. Once your skin adjusts to the weaker stuff, you can move onto the products designed for the average customer. Stop Applying to Irritated Skin This can be counterintuitive, but it’s actually fine and necessary to push through with a retinol product which irritates your skin. The irritation is a natural and non-harmful part of the process related to smoothing the skin and heightening pigmentation. After a few weeks, your skin cells will adapt to the process and be just fine. However, if the irritation you feel is prolonged or far more uncomfortable than usual, it’s probably a good idea to switch to a weaker product. Don’t Take Retinoids on Vacation It’s perfectly fine if you experience a change in climate while taking retinol products. Once the skin adapts to the product you’re using, the irritation will generally stop for any reason. The irritation is likely to subdue and not flare up again until you switch to a stronger product, but climate and other external conditions have nothing to do with this process. With this being said, it’s still a good idea to apply a layer of moisturizer to keep the skin from drying, which generally leads to irritation no matter what the conditions. Don’t Take Your Retinoids to the Beach Yes, it’s difficult to wrap your head around the sunburn point from earlier, but it’s absolutely true. Retinoids do not make your skin more susceptible to burning damage or other types of skin damage. You can absolutely wear and take your retinol products with you to the beach and on beach centered vacations. There’s even emerging evidence that wearing retinoids while relaxing on an island may be positive. Retinoids both boost collagen production and stop photoaging before it starts. Don’t Put Retinoids Around Your Eyes Another myth which exaggerates the “danger” of retinoids, many believe that the product is too strong to put around the eyes. But, not only can you apply retinol around your eyes, you probably should. Multiple studies have shown that those who apply retinol right up to the eyes get the best results from the product. You may accidently get some retinol in your eye during the process, but this is perfectly fine. The product may sting some but it’s not harmful. There’s no danger in getting retinoids of any sort in your eye. Benefits Stop Increasing After Six Months Scientists have been testing retinoid products for a few years now, and their results have been positive and far reaching. They’ve found that the benefits of retinoids will significantly improve for a full year, not just six months. Your skin will improve in a variety of ways for a full year, including wrinkle smoothing and the fading of skin blotches. After a full year of using a consistent retinoid product, you can switch over to a higher dosage to maintain and even improve upon the existing effects. Don’t be quick to switch ingredients, simply up the dosage of the current product you’re using for best results.
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The Truth About Retinol & Skin Care
You may have seen retinol creams when browsing the skin care aisle. But do you know what retinol actually is or what it can do for your skin? What is retinol? Very simply, retinol are vitamin A derivatives. These are used primarily as an anti-aging or acne treatment. While you can buy products with retinol, these are not the same as the prescription retinoids as prescribed by a doctor. Even though you can purchase retinol over-the-counter, you should still be aware of how it works, what it treats, and any possible side effects. How does retinol work? Retinol, a form of retinoid, is made from vitamin A. Instead of removing dead skin cells like many other products, tiny molecules that make up retinol go deep beneath the outer layer of skin into the dermis. As it gets to the middle layer of skin, retinol neutralizes free radicals. This boosts the production of elastin and collagen, creating a plumper look while also reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and larger pores. It doesn’t stop there - retinol also exfoliates the surface of the skin, improving texture and tone even more. It can also treat severe acne and the scarring that can sometimes come from severe acne. By creating comedolytic agents, it keeps the pores unclogged and prevent the formation of comedones or blemishes. If you suffer from severe acne, you should see your dermatologist, who may recommend an additional antibiotic to use alongside your retinol treatment. But don’t forget, it can take up to six weeks to see improvements in your skin. Retinol can also help to balance out the hydration levels in your skin. The mild exfoliation, as previously mentioned, removes dead skin cells that can lead to a loss of moisture. Even if you have oily skin, you can benefit from an over-the-counter retinol treatment as it can control excess production of sebum from the pores. What does retinol treat? Retinol is an incredibly versatile product, able to help in the treatment of: acne fine lines wrinkles age (sun) spots freckles other signs of sun damage (also called photoaging) uneven skin texture melanoma and other forms of hyperpigmentation large pores For the best results, you must use your retinol product every day and it can still take as many as several weeks for any significant change. Side Effects of Retinol Even though retinoids like retinol are approved by the FDA, there may still be some side effects you’ll experience. The most common side effect is dry and irritated skin. This is especially common when using a new product. You may also notice some redness, itchiness, or peeling skin. There’s no reason to panic, though. These side effects are temporary and are likely to improve within a few weeks. Sometimes our skin needs to get used to a new product. If you do experience skin irritation for a prolonged time, try a different product with a slightly lower strength. To reduce skin irritation, try applying the retinol treatment about 30 minutes after washing your face. You can also try only applying the treatment every other day to build up your skin’s tolerance to the retinol before moving to every-day use. You may be more at risk for side effects if you use more than one retinol product at a time. Be sure to read all the product labels of your skin care products carefully to know if there is retinol hiding in there. Combining anti-aging and acne products is a common way to accidentally use more retinol than your skin can handle. And remember to apply your retinol treatment at night - retinoids have some risk of sun sensitivity. Cautions One of the biggest risks you face when using a retinol is sunburn. Retinol tends to dry out and irritate the skin at first and this can all be made worse by sun exposure. Be sure to wear sunscreen daily and avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible. This will not only help to avoid skin irritation from retinol, but also reduce the risk of lines, wrinkles, and dryness. If you’re pregnant, retinol may not be the product for you. They are generally not recommended for pregnant women as they can increase the risk for birth defects and miscarriages. However, many pregnant women find they experience skin issues during pregnancy, so speak with your doctor about a solution that’s right for you. If you aren’t yet pregnant, your doctor may recommend an oral contraceptive while you use a retinol product. Another concern is for those with eczema. Retinol can aggravate eczema symptoms so speak with your doctor before starting a retinol treatment. As with all treatments, both prescription and over-the-counter, it’s best to bring any concern you have to your doctor. They can answer any question you have and recommend the best product for you.
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4 Essential Vitamins to Achieve Better Skin Health
We all want great, clear skin. But there’s more to skin health than being blemish-free. Since your skin is your largest organ, it’s actually a vital part of keeping ourselves healthy. Start with the right vitamins While most information about skin health will tell you to limit your sun exposure, a little can actually be great for you. Of course, wearing sunscreen is important to block out the sun’s dangerous UV rays. However, spending about 10-15 minutes a day in the sun, your body will get the help it needs to produce vitamin D through your skin. Along with vitamins C, E, and K, vitamin D is one of the most important vitamins for healthy skin. Aside from being good for you, getting enough vitamins will help your skin look healthy and youthful. You may even see a reduced amount of dark spots, redness, wrinkles, rough patches, and excessive dryness. As you shop for skincare products, take some time to look at the vitamins they include. These types of products can be a great way to get the essential vitamins your skin needs directly through the epidermis. Try buying skincare products with the following vitamins. Vitamin D As we already discussed, vitamin D is made by your body when sunlight is absorbed through the skin. As the sunlight is absorbed through your skin, cholesterol converts to the vitamin D, which is then taken up by the liver and kidneys and transferred throughout your body, aiding in the creation of healthy cells. Along with helping to create healthy cells, vitamin D also plays a role in skin tone and could even help to treat psoriasis. In a 2009 study published in the Journal of Drugs and Dermatology, it was found that applying a man-made topical vitamin D cream called Calcitriol reduced skin inflammation and irritation in those with psoriasis with few adverse side effects. Getting enough vitamin D every day doesn’t have to be a chore. Try any of the following tips and tricks: Get about 10 minutes of sun exposure every day (but talk to your doctor first, especially if you have any history of skin cancer). Eat fortified foods, like breakfast cereals, orange juice, and yogurt. Eat more foods that naturally contain vitamin D, like salmon, tuna, and cod. Vitamin C One of the vitamins found in the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and the dermis (inner layer of skin) is vitamin C. Its cancer-fighting antioxidant properties and its ability to help with collagen production keeps your skin at peak health. Especially common in anti-aging products, vitamin C is another one to look for when making a skincare product purchase. Do you find yourself still burning, even after putting on sunscreen? Trying taking an oral vitamin C supplement. It’s been shown to help improve the effectiveness of sunscreen. It can also help to lower cell damage and promote the healing process for wounds. One reason you will often find vitamin C in anti-aging products is its ability to help with the body’s natural collagen synthesis. It aids in healing damaged skin and can even reduce the appearance of wrinkles in some cases. With the right amount of vitamin C, you can heal your skin and prevent dryness. Don’t assume you are low in vitamin C. Because it’s often found in over-the-counter products and supplements, along with its prevalence in the food we eat, it’s hard to be low in Vitamin C. The current recommendation is 1,000 mg per day. If you find you need help reaching that level, try some of these hacks: Eat more citrus fruits (like oranges) and drink citrus juices Look for other food sources of vitamin C, like strawberries, broccoli, and spinach Take a supplement as directed by your doctor Vitamin E Another antioxidant, vitamin E is one of the main vitamins essential for skin health, including protection against sun damage. Vitamin E actually absorbs UV light when it’s applied to the skin, minimizing your sun damage and preventing dark spots and wrinkles. Typically, your body will produce enough vitamin E through an oily substance that comes out of your pores called sebum. This maintains the skin’s condition and prevents dryness. If you find yourself with especially dry skin, vitamin E can help bring it back into balance. It can even help reduce skin inflammation. As great as it is to get vitamin E through skincare products, the positive effects can be minimized when exposed to the sun, so it’s better to get your vitamin E through a healthy diet. Most adults require about 15 mg per day. Increase your intake by: Eating more nuts and seeds, like almonds, hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds. Taking a multivitamin or a vitamin E supplement Using topical products with both vitamin E and C so you enjoy the photoprotection of the vitamin C Vitamin K One of the most important vitamins, vitamin K is essential in helping the body with blood clotting. This means it helps with healing wounds, bruises, and areas that may require surgery. It can also help with stretch marks, spider beings, scars, dark spots, and circles under your eyes. This is one vitamin you won’t have a problem finding in topical products because of its versatility in treating skin conditions. Doctors sometimes even use it for surgery patients to reduce swelling and bruising. Sadly, research on the positive effects of vitamin K are more limited than with vitamins E and C. This is another vitamin where a deficiency is rare. Adults need about 90 to 120 ug per day. To increase your vitamin K intake with your food, eat more kale, spinach, lettuce, cabbage, and green beans.
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Adequate Sleeps Help You Achieve Healthier Skin
There are countless beauty products on the market to help people achieve great-looking skin. From skin lotions to misters, the obsession with looking and feeling great is at an all-time high, but there’s a surprising way to help your skin’s health and beauty – sleep. Recently, there’s been a plethora of scientific data and studies to confirm the age-old principle of beauty sleep, as many forms of recovery happen when we’re asleep. Though your daily skin routine is still important, here are six steps to maximizing skin beauty through deeper sleep. Get a Full Night’s Rest Sleep is one of the most important natural functions of the human body. It helps regulate and repair many of our systems and leaves us feeling refreshed and ready for the day – but only if we sleep for the recommended seven to nine hours. Cutting your sleep short or waking up several times throughout the night can have negative results: your skin could age faster, recover slower from environmental stress like sun exposure, and generally decline in quality throughout the day. For great skin quality, sleep for seven to nine hours a day, even on weekends. There are products that can help you sleep as well as track your sleep, like specialty alarm clocks and wearable fitness trackers, respectively. Wash Your Face Before Sleeping Going to sleep is an instant boost to your skincare routine because sleep helps repair skin, increase blood flow, rebuilds collagen, and relaxes your muscles, but going to sleep with a dirty face can be a massive setback. Before you turn in each night, you should always cleanse your face to maintain a healthy, clean glow. All you have to use is a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and extra oil so that these things don’t degrade into dirt and turn your skin extra oily. Without this cleanse, you may experience large pores, dry skin, rashes, inflammation, and even acne outbreaks. Use an Overnight Moisturizer Once you’ve washed your face, it can easily dry out overnight. Sleeping can also dehydrate the skin, especially in a low-humidity environment, and while drinking water helps keep you hydrated and refreshed throughout the night, the best solution to dry skin is a topical moisturizer. There’s no need for fancy products or expensive goods here; a thicker cream or oil will help you clean your skin as you sleep. You can also use a day moisturizer and a layer of petroleum jelly on top to lock in the moisturizer. The fanciest product worth using in this situation is an overnight sleeping mask, as these are stylistically designed to keep your skin fresh and clean. Sleep on Your Back and Use a Special Pillowcase You sleep nearly one-third of each and every day, and the position you rest in is guaranteed to have an impact on your skin. Compressing your face on a rough, cotton surface will irritate your skin and cause wrinkles. To avoid this problem, try sleeping on your back. Sleeping on your back will decompress the skin and ensure the surface of your rest doesn’t result in skin irritations or wrinkles. You can train yourself to sleep in your back without a problem, but if you must sleep on your side, there are specialty pillowcases made of satin or silk which will minimize skin irritation and compression. In addition, a copper-oxide pillowcase will reduce crow’s-feet and other fine lines. Elevate Your Head There are many benefits that have been proven to result from elevating your head while you sleep. Snoring, acid reflux and nasal drip are all substantially decreased when you elevate your head. Removing these factors from your sleep cycle can also have a positive domino effect, as they can all interrupt your sleep cycle and wake you up several times a night. Elevating your head will also help to reduce bags and circles under your eyes by improving blood flow and preventing blood from pooling. The process to head elevation is simple; just use an extra pillow while you sleep or tilt your bed up a few inches if possible. Don’t Sleep in Sunlit Locations While it’s true that most sleeping is done at night, there are times when the sun can hit your skin while you sleep. Try to avoid taking naps directly in the sun or letting the sun hit you in a direct way in the morning, as it can have a damaging effect to your skin’s health and appearance. Sleeping in a room where the sun shines frequently can also disrupt sleep rhythms, leading to a restless night and irritability in the morning. It’s never a bad idea to invest in blackout curtains or move your bed out of the direct path of the sun. Getting clearer, healthier, great looking skin is as easy as improving your sleep schedule, staying hydrated during the night, and avoiding the sun while you sleep. There are no fancy or expensive products necessary, just a slight change in habits.
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Does Glycolic Acid Help Heal Acne Scars?
Glycolic acid is a natural acid that comes from sugar beets, sugar cane, and a few other substances. It can be used as a medium-strength cream that exfoliates skin, as well as provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As a healing cream, glycolic acid is used in the treatment of a number of skin conditions. Doctors, estheticians, and cosmetologists typically oversee treatments of glycolic acid creams, however there are more mild, over-the-counter treatments available. What do glycolic acid creams do to help the skin? Glycolic acid cream is made up of small molecules that are able to get into the skin, removing debris and dead skin cells from the surface down to the middle layer. Creams range from mild to medium strength, which is based on the percentage of glycolic acid the cream contains. This depth of layers in the skin that the cream penetrates are dependent on the percentage in that cream. There are a number of benefits for the skin that come from glycolic acid creams. From reducing ingrown hair, treating stretch marks, healing hyperpigmentation, and more, glycolic acid cream is an important treatment for many skin conditions. Will the cream help to heal acne scars? One of the top benefits of glycolic acid comes from its ability to loosen and lift excess oils out of hair follicle roots. This enables glycolic acid creams to treat acne and even heal acne scars. Glycolic acid creams are used to remove whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples, as well as reduce the size of pores, making them an effective and natural acne treatment. Not only that, when glycolic acid creams are used as an acne treatment for an extended period of time, they can actually remove acne scars. Are there any side effects of glycolic acid creams? While glycolic acid is natural and typically safe for most people, it does come with a few potential side effects, including: Skin irritation Irritation of the eyes Skin sensations such as pulling, stinging, and burning Redness Swelling Cold sores Skin tone change Scarring, blisters, and hypopigmentation can occur, but are extremely rare These side effects tend to occur more often when creams are overused or if overly high strengths are used. Side effects can be maximized with exposure to cigarette smoke and the sun. How do I get glycolic acid cream to help heal my acne scars? Dermatologists and estheticians can help you determine the strength and amount of glycolic acid cream that will be best for you and your skin condition. They will help ensure you use the appropriate amount and will help you prepare your skin for the treatment. A cosmetic procedure, glycolic acid creams are not typically covered by health insurance. Medium-strength, physician-led glycolic acid treatment will likely cost $100 to $600. Mild creams can be purchased over the counter and administered at home. These tend to cost $20 to $100 and can be purchased at stores or online. When you treat your acne scars at home, be sure to use well-reviewed creams from a reputable manufacturer, such as Hygieia Skin Care. With Hygieia Skin Care, you can rest assured that you are getting the best at-home treatment for acne scars out there.
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How Does Ginkgo Biloba Support Overall Health?
During the health craze of the last few years, many have noted the health properties of ginkgo biloba, or maidenhair, a tree that has grown for thousands of years in the rural countryside of China. The only remaining member of an ancient order of plants, ginkgo biloba is a living fossil that can improve your life in a number of ways. Here are twelve ways in which ginkgo biloba will help you be healthy and virile. Contains Antioxidants Ginkgo possesses an impressive amount of flavonoids and terpenoids, compounds that produce strong antioxidant effects such as combating and neutralizing free radicals and foreign invaders within your body. Eliminating these free radicals can help protect your cells and ward off certain diseases. While research is uncertain about how the effect works and to what extent, ginkgo could be used in the future as a form of “disease repellent.” Fights Inflammation Inflammation is a naturally occurring process but there are certain foods which can trigger an excess of this bodily function. Chronic inflammation is known to cause other diseases and increases the risk of such maladies as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Ginkgo has been tested for years to determine its effects on inflammation and the results are promising; in both human and animal tests, ginkgo decreased markers of inflammation during phases of different diseases. Improves Circulation and Heart Health Traditionally, ginkgo seeds have been used to increase one’s natural energy and improve the health of different organ systems including the kidneys, liver, brain, and lungs. In recent times, researchers have discovered these properties can probably be attributed to ginkgo’s ability to increased blood flow throughout the body. Even in those with heart disease, ginkgo increased blood flow and directly led to a twelve percent increase in levels of circulating nitric oxide, a compound which helps dilate blood vessels. Reduces Symptoms of Psychiatric Disorders Recently, ginkgo has been lauded for its ability to reduce anxiety, stress, and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. Though research is minimal, some studies suggest ginkgo could be used to treat dementia and other cognitive impairments in the future. A meta review of twenty-one studies conclusively demonstrated ginkgo’s positive effects on patients with mild Alzheimer’s. Improves Brain Function In addition to healing and increasing cognitive ability, there’s been speculation that ginkgo may also aid general brain function. There are several small studies which point to the idea that supplementing with ginkgo could enhance mental performance and perception of mental and physical health. Results from these studies have linked ginkgo to improved memory, focus, and attention span. Reduces Anxiety Recent research has indicated that supplementing ginkgo can also reduce symptoms of anxiety. A small number of studies with animals have shown anxiety decreases when ginkgo is ingested, and researchers believe this is due to the antioxidants found within the plant. In a study of 170 people, those treated with ginkgo as opposed to 480 mg of placebo showed a 45% reduction in symptoms of anxiety. Treats Depression Although only used in animal trials thus far, ginkgo has been shown to treat depression and its symptoms. Mice who were given ginkgo and then made to perform a stressful situation experienced reduced stress than those given another supplement or nothing. Ginkgo’s ability to reduce inflammation is thought to effect depression, as some researchers believe inflammation plays a crucial role in the disease. Supports Vision and Eye Health Though the sample size is small, preliminary experiments into the effect ginkgo has on eye and vision health are promising. One review showed increased blow flow to the eye in those with glaucoma while another showed improvements in vision with those who have age-related macular degeneration. Though the results were not as consistent as some had hoped, the data we have points to the potential of ginkgo to be used for those with ocular maladies. Treats Headaches and Migraines Historically, ginkgo was a popular treatment for headaches and migraines, particularly in Chinese culture. This healing of the mind’s aches is once again attributed to ginkgo’s power as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. If the underlying cause of the headache is related to blood flow, ginkgo’s ability to dilate blood vessels is also useful. Improves Asthma and COPD Symptoms The anti-inflammatory properties of ginkgo may also lead to reduced asthma and COPD symptoms. One study brought in one-hundred participants who were given a formula of various Chinese herbs, including ginkgo. Those who used the formula showed a dramatic drop in their coughs and bronchitis at a three-month follow up compared to the control group. Reduces PMS Symptoms The research on this area of ginkgo’s properties is also light, but early-stage research points to promising results. A study of eighty-five college students demonstrated a 23% reduction in PMS symptoms of those consuming ginkgo during the study. The control group also showed reduced signs of symptoms, but only 8% as opposed to the ginkgo group’s 23%. More research is being conducted to find a firmer casual relationship between ginkgo and PMS-symptom reduction. Treats Sexual Dysfunction In addition to women’s issues, ginkgo might also treat sexual dysfunction in men, such as erectile dysfunction or low libido. This is again due to the increased blood flow of those who ingest ginkgo, as the nitric oxide in the plant helps blood flow throughout the body. Although ginkgo can naturally increase sex drive, it was no more effective than placebo in mending sexual dysfunction in those because of their use of SSRIs, or antidepressant drugs. A world of possibilities is opening up because of the ginkgo plant. While there are many healing properties researches are trying to understand, and many more that have yet to be found, the plant could be used in a wide variety of medications within the coming years.
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