Getting old is a natural process and none of us can avoid it. But it is fact as well that just because you are getting old doesn't mean that you have to look old. Yes, in these days, there are ways to keep your appearance much younger than your age and thus live with a confidence of youth and glamour. Here we will discuss some common aging skin problems and their solution.
First we need to know what the reasons for which we face skin problems that is related to age. First of all excess exposure to sun is one of the reasons that causes wrinkles and fine lines. UV ray is very much responsible for growth of radicals which may cause serious skin problems.
When we get older, the growth of very important elements of our body like Collagen and Elastin starts to decrease. Collagen and Elastin are very much needed to keep our skin young, soft and firm. So the decrease of such elements causes our skin to get dry, rough and wrinkles start to appear.
Smoking and drinking alcohol are also responsible for skin problems. Alcohol is a drying agent that can cause excess dryness that takes away the smooth and polished shape of your skin. Smoking cigarettes causes the growth of free radicals which creates instability inside your body.
Using chemical skincare creams are also very much responsible for causing skin problems. Many synthetic ingredients cause allergy, irritation, itching, redness etc, instead of curing them.
Irregular sleep and stress are common reasons of wrinkles and other skin related hassles.
Now there are real effective ways through which you can get rid of all the skin problems you face because of aging. First try to avoid sun light. Use a sun screen when going out. It will help your to check the production of free radicals.
Functional Keratin is one of the most effective natural ingredients that can help your body to stimulate the growth of Collagen up to 160% in only three days. It is a very natural process to regain youth of your skin.
Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that helps to reduce the growth of free radicals and thus helps your skin to get rid of wrinkles and fine lines.
Active Manuka Honey is very effective to remove age spots and blemishes which is scientifically proven.
Besides going for natural skincare products, you also need to avoid creams that have chemical ingredients including Alcohol, parabens, mineral oil, artificial fragrances etc. they are very much harmful for both your skin and over all health condition.
You need to have enough sleep everyday (around 7 to 8 hours) and try to avoid stress. It is seen that people who don't have enough sleep everyday may suffer from skin problems at the long run.
Eating plenty of green vegetables and fruits and drinking plenty of water everyday can naturally heal your skin from wrinkles.
Aging skin problems are very natural but curable as well. A healthy diet and the natural anti aging skincare creams can make all the difference and you are not far away from them.
Read More ..
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Best Eye Cream Alternatives
I do not disregard the importance of anti aging treatments, but to contribute to the benefits you can get from these treatments, or if you decide you're not ready for the eye creams yet, you can try these tips and alternatives. This is especially good for those who have very sensitive skin, or those in the early twenties who have enough care for the skin, but are still in the search for the best eye creams for their skin.
You will see that there is no need to resort to chemicals or anything of that sort. An all natural and fully available habit is all that you need. And I mean those that are found within your own homes. Below, I will put in the regimens you can do, and what they are effective for.
Cucumber for eye puffiness
If you find yourself constantly suffering from eye puffiness, all you need to do is go to your fridge, and slice up some cucumbers. These are great for taking away the puffiness because of its cooling effect. All you have to do is spritz your eye with water. Take your cut cucumber, and allow it to remain on your eyes while you lie back, and maybe catch a nap. When you wake up, you'll find your eyes looking as relaxed as you are.
Potato for baggy eyes
First, let me clear this, puffy eyes and baggy eyes are not similar. Puffy eyes are caused by water retention and can usually be found on the lids, while baggy eyes, though water retention as well, are on the lower portion of the eyes. To minimize those bags under your eyes, simply slice some raw potatoes to thin circles. Using the same process as with cucumber, spritz some water on your eyes before putting the potatoes, and let it remain for ten minutes before taking them off.
Eggs for crow's feet
You've probably heard this before, but egg white really does make a good facial mask. To take away those fine lines, simply beat one egg white until soft peaks are nearly formed. Simply dab it around the eye area and allow to settle, and leave it there for 10 minutes. Removing this requires extra care. Spray the area with water, and use a cotton ball to wipe away the film-like material. Be very careful not to put too much stress when removing it, or you might stretch that sensitive skin.
Castor bean oil for eye lashes
To make the windows to your soul even more attractive, you can also use this bonus. To thicken eye lashes, dab cotton swab with the oil, and apply them to your lashes. You can allow the oil to settle the entire day, provided you placed only the necessary amount. You may use this as a daily habit.
Read More ..
You will see that there is no need to resort to chemicals or anything of that sort. An all natural and fully available habit is all that you need. And I mean those that are found within your own homes. Below, I will put in the regimens you can do, and what they are effective for.
Cucumber for eye puffiness
If you find yourself constantly suffering from eye puffiness, all you need to do is go to your fridge, and slice up some cucumbers. These are great for taking away the puffiness because of its cooling effect. All you have to do is spritz your eye with water. Take your cut cucumber, and allow it to remain on your eyes while you lie back, and maybe catch a nap. When you wake up, you'll find your eyes looking as relaxed as you are.
Potato for baggy eyes
First, let me clear this, puffy eyes and baggy eyes are not similar. Puffy eyes are caused by water retention and can usually be found on the lids, while baggy eyes, though water retention as well, are on the lower portion of the eyes. To minimize those bags under your eyes, simply slice some raw potatoes to thin circles. Using the same process as with cucumber, spritz some water on your eyes before putting the potatoes, and let it remain for ten minutes before taking them off.
Eggs for crow's feet
You've probably heard this before, but egg white really does make a good facial mask. To take away those fine lines, simply beat one egg white until soft peaks are nearly formed. Simply dab it around the eye area and allow to settle, and leave it there for 10 minutes. Removing this requires extra care. Spray the area with water, and use a cotton ball to wipe away the film-like material. Be very careful not to put too much stress when removing it, or you might stretch that sensitive skin.
Castor bean oil for eye lashes
To make the windows to your soul even more attractive, you can also use this bonus. To thicken eye lashes, dab cotton swab with the oil, and apply them to your lashes. You can allow the oil to settle the entire day, provided you placed only the necessary amount. You may use this as a daily habit.
Read More ..
Supplements For Healthy Skin
The sun is regarded as the foremost enemy of the skin because it damages the skin making it age fast. For worse cases, professional help and in some cases cosmetic procedure is the only solution. Another way to have healthy skin is through supplements, especially those that are called anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants are said to act on free radicals from damaging the skin cells. As you age, the number of free radicals in the body increases. These free radicals are products of oxidation in the body and are also created though exposure to external factors like smoking and ultra violet rays. These free radicals are believed to speed up aging that is manifested usually on the skin. Anti-oxidants are good in fighting these free radicals. Because of this big factor, more vitamin and mineral supplements are antioxidants
Selenium
Selenium is believed to be a very potent antioxidant that is primarily the content of glutathione peroxidase. It prevents cancers which includes skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to the sun. Aside from this, it is also very good in providing for a firm and elastic tissue. Best source for selenium are sea foods, cereals, eggs and garlic.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is one of the most essential antioxidant known today. Studies showed that as an antioxidant, it acts on free radicals by rendering free radicals inactive. Also, Vitamin E prevents damage of the cell membranes. Many studies and experiments showed that it is good in protecting the cells. Creams containing Vitamin E in the form of d-alpha-tocopherol is very effective in reducing sunburn cells induced by prolonged UV rays exposure. It also prevents the formation of cancer cells also caused by sun exposure. Vitamin E can be found in oats, brown rich, wheat germ, meats, dairy products and nuts.
Vitamin C
Vitamin is the most abundant and common antioxidant that is found on the skin. When the skin is exposed to the sun, the amount of vitamin C decreases, making it vulnerable to damage such as sun burns. Similar to Vitamin E, Vitamin C renders the free radicals inactive preventing them fromfurther damage to the skin which may lead to skin cancer.
Vitamin C utilization comes in caplets, topical creams and lotions. Especially topical creams and lotions with Vitamin C are proven to prevent skin damage, instead working on it to repair the damaged cells. L-ascorbic acid is the most common form of Vitamin C. Foods rich in Vitamin C are citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables.
Read More ..
Selenium
Selenium is believed to be a very potent antioxidant that is primarily the content of glutathione peroxidase. It prevents cancers which includes skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to the sun. Aside from this, it is also very good in providing for a firm and elastic tissue. Best source for selenium are sea foods, cereals, eggs and garlic.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is one of the most essential antioxidant known today. Studies showed that as an antioxidant, it acts on free radicals by rendering free radicals inactive. Also, Vitamin E prevents damage of the cell membranes. Many studies and experiments showed that it is good in protecting the cells. Creams containing Vitamin E in the form of d-alpha-tocopherol is very effective in reducing sunburn cells induced by prolonged UV rays exposure. It also prevents the formation of cancer cells also caused by sun exposure. Vitamin E can be found in oats, brown rich, wheat germ, meats, dairy products and nuts.
Vitamin C
Vitamin is the most abundant and common antioxidant that is found on the skin. When the skin is exposed to the sun, the amount of vitamin C decreases, making it vulnerable to damage such as sun burns. Similar to Vitamin E, Vitamin C renders the free radicals inactive preventing them fromfurther damage to the skin which may lead to skin cancer.
Vitamin C utilization comes in caplets, topical creams and lotions. Especially topical creams and lotions with Vitamin C are proven to prevent skin damage, instead working on it to repair the damaged cells. L-ascorbic acid is the most common form of Vitamin C. Foods rich in Vitamin C are citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables.
Read More ..
Best Anti Aging Skin Care Products - What to Use?
Anti-aging skin care is always evolving and it becomes more and more sophisticated with each year, with new technologies and new products out on the market. With so many products on the market, choosing a good anti-aging skin care system can be difficult. Everyone likes to look like a beauty with youthful and elegant pose and the only way is to use the right products.
Products, which contain ingredients such as tomato in them, are growing increasingly popular with many women. Not only does this particular plant contain properties, which have a cooling and astringent effect on the skin, but it also contains some good anti oxidant properties as well.
Drinking
Drinking plenty of water, at least eight glasses day, is generally considered good for you in keeping your body hydrated and will help maintain moisture for your skin. You should avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they tend to dry out the skin, making the small lines and wrinkles more apparent. Dehydration will create an imbalance of minerals and it will also affect hormone balance.
Vitamins
Vitamin D is essential for healthy skin, mostly absorbed from our exposure to the sun. Shiitake mushrooms are one raw food source, and chlorella contains chlorophyll, which reduces our requirement for D. Vitamin E is one of those necessary nutrients both internally and externally. Vitamin C which produces collagen and Vitamin A are both important to tissue repair. Vitamin E is well known for its healing properties. And combining it with the lesser known COQ10 makes for a powerful, ant aging combination.
Fruits
Fruits are one source of such anti-oxidants. Eating these fruits on a daily basis can help prolong the onset of said wrinkles. Fruits and vegetables contain natural anti-oxidants which helps stop the early formation of the signs of aging. These anti-oxidants, such as Vitamins A, C, and E, help detoxify our skin, thus, eliminating the harmful minerals and elements from our skin.
Moisturizer
Moisturizers help prevent your body from yielding moisture. The more hydrated your body's surface, the fewer lines will be visible. Moisturizers, for example, work by trapping the moisture already in the skin, and sealing it in. They don't bring in new moisture to dehydrated skin, though they help prevent moisture loss.
Sunscreen
Use it whenever you are going into the sun; with today's sunscreen-enhanced anti aging skin care products, there's no reason to ever be without protection. Sunscreen may have to be reapplied during the day if you spend time outside. Sunscreen also helps prevent skin cancer caused by sun exposure as well as wrinkle prevention.
Collagen
Collagen is one such important nutrient that can really affect the condition of your skin. This substance is extremely important to improve the condition of your skin since it aids in producing new cells. Collagen is a kind of structural protein, which is found in skin. Vitamin C based anti aging skin care products are sometimes pretended with the danger of receiving them oxidized.
Avoid
Avoid bar soaps since they typically dry out the skin. Never wash your face with hot or cold water as either method can cause broken capillaries. Avoid fish like shark, because they are at the top of the food chain and have the highest levels of mercury.
Read More ..
Products, which contain ingredients such as tomato in them, are growing increasingly popular with many women. Not only does this particular plant contain properties, which have a cooling and astringent effect on the skin, but it also contains some good anti oxidant properties as well.
Drinking
Drinking plenty of water, at least eight glasses day, is generally considered good for you in keeping your body hydrated and will help maintain moisture for your skin. You should avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they tend to dry out the skin, making the small lines and wrinkles more apparent. Dehydration will create an imbalance of minerals and it will also affect hormone balance.
Vitamins
Vitamin D is essential for healthy skin, mostly absorbed from our exposure to the sun. Shiitake mushrooms are one raw food source, and chlorella contains chlorophyll, which reduces our requirement for D. Vitamin E is one of those necessary nutrients both internally and externally. Vitamin C which produces collagen and Vitamin A are both important to tissue repair. Vitamin E is well known for its healing properties. And combining it with the lesser known COQ10 makes for a powerful, ant aging combination.
Fruits
Fruits are one source of such anti-oxidants. Eating these fruits on a daily basis can help prolong the onset of said wrinkles. Fruits and vegetables contain natural anti-oxidants which helps stop the early formation of the signs of aging. These anti-oxidants, such as Vitamins A, C, and E, help detoxify our skin, thus, eliminating the harmful minerals and elements from our skin.
Moisturizer
Moisturizers help prevent your body from yielding moisture. The more hydrated your body's surface, the fewer lines will be visible. Moisturizers, for example, work by trapping the moisture already in the skin, and sealing it in. They don't bring in new moisture to dehydrated skin, though they help prevent moisture loss.
Sunscreen
Use it whenever you are going into the sun; with today's sunscreen-enhanced anti aging skin care products, there's no reason to ever be without protection. Sunscreen may have to be reapplied during the day if you spend time outside. Sunscreen also helps prevent skin cancer caused by sun exposure as well as wrinkle prevention.
Collagen
Collagen is one such important nutrient that can really affect the condition of your skin. This substance is extremely important to improve the condition of your skin since it aids in producing new cells. Collagen is a kind of structural protein, which is found in skin. Vitamin C based anti aging skin care products are sometimes pretended with the danger of receiving them oxidized.
Avoid
Avoid bar soaps since they typically dry out the skin. Never wash your face with hot or cold water as either method can cause broken capillaries. Avoid fish like shark, because they are at the top of the food chain and have the highest levels of mercury.
Read More ..
The top five nutrients for healthy skin
The skin is one of the most powerful indicators of health. Wrinkles, dry or oily skin, acne, and inflammation all are signs of poor internal health, often brought on by consuming unhealthful foods and avoiding skin-healthy nutrients. To treat skin problems, most people turn to mainstream topical cosmetics, including lotions, soaps, scrubs, toners, and creams. However, treating outer blemishes with expensive, chemical-laden beauty products does little to address the root cause of the problem: poor nutrition and exposure to toxins in dietary and personal care products.
"Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body's internal needs, including its nutritional needs," says Dr. Georgiana Donadio, founder of the National Institute of Whole Health.
Recent research has shown that the skin reacts particularly well to certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that nourish the skin, making it appear youthful and healthy. The following nutrients are among the very best to consume for healthy, young-looking skin:
Silica:Silica is a trace mineral that strengthens the body's connective tissues - muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments, nails, cartilage, and bone - and is vital for healthy skin. Silica deficiency can result in reduced skin elasticity and can hamper the body's ability to heal wounds. Food sources of silica include leeks, green beans, garbanzo beans, strawberries, cucumber, mango, celery, asparagus and rhubarb. In its natural form, silica is found in the horsetail herb. Silica is also available as a concentrated liquid supplement from Eidon Ionic Minerals (www.eidon.com)
Zinc: The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell. Zinc consumption is also strongly linked to a reduction of prostate cancer.
Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, Brazil nuts, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.
The typical American diet is overabundant in omega-6 fatty acids found in baked goods and grains, and lacking in omega-3s, found in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and safflower oil. Simply balancing the intake of omega-3s with omega-6s can result in smoother, younger-looking skin. EFAs are also available in supplement form - such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil - and are effective at treating a wide range of disorders, from depression and cancer to arthritis and heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 oils include chia seeds, flax seeds and, for non-vegetarians, wild-harvested fish oils. A reputable supplier of fish oils is Nordic Naturals (www.NordicNaturals.com)
Selenium: Selenium is an antioxidant mineral responsible for tissue elasticity. It also acts to prevent cell damage by free radicals and is will known to be correlated with a reduction of breast cancer risk. It may play an important role in preventing skin cancer, as it can protect the skin from damage from excessive ultraviolet light.
Dietary sources of selenium include wheat germ, seafood such as tuna and salmon, garlic, Brazil nuts, eggs, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread. Brazil nuts are perhaps the best source, and eating just 3-4 Brazil nuts per day provides adequate selenium intake for most people. A good source of raw brazil nuts is www.RawFood.com
Vitamins C, E and A: Vitamin C is highly effective at reducing free radical damage, such as that caused by overexposure to the sun or pollution. Free radicals consume collagen and elastin - the fibers that support skin structure - and can cause wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. Vitamin C is especially effective at protecting the skin from overexposure to the sun when combined with vitamin E. Foods high in vitamin C include acerola (a cherry-like fruit), red and green bell peppers, guava, kale, parsley, collard greens, turnips, and broccoli.
Wherever possible, consumers are advised to get their vitamin C from a whole food source, and not to confuse synthetic vitamin C (ascorbic acid) with the real thing from plants (which is full spectrum vitamin C that goes way beyond ascorbic acid). A good source of whole food vitamins is Botani (http://www.alohabay.com/botani/index.html)
In terms of topical applications of vitamin C for your skin, there's nothing on the market that even comes close to a product called Camu C Serum manufactured by the Amazon Herb Company (http://amazondreams.amazonherb.net/Lluv...), which is made from Camu Camu berries -- the highest natural source of full-spectrum vitamin C.
Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant that reduces the effects of sun exposure on the skin. When combined with vitamin A, vitamin E is especially effective at preventing certain skin cancers. Vitamin E also reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and, when applied topically, soothes dry or rough skin. Food sources of vitamin E include wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, safflower and sunflower oils, almonds, spinach, peaches, prunes, tomatoes, cabbage, asparagus, and avocados.
Avoid synthetic vitamin E supplements, as they have been shown to actually harm health. Only consume natural vitamin E from a reputable source such as the Life Extension Foundation (www.LEF.org)
Vitamin A promotes proper repair and maintenance of the skin, and deficiencies can result in a dry, flaky complexion. Topical vitamin A treatments are often used to treat acne and other skin ailments. Foods high in vitamin A include liver, chili peppers, dandelion, carrots, apricots, collard greens, kale, sweet potatoes, spinach, and cantaloupe.
It's best to consume vitamin A from natural food sources rather than supplementing it, as vitamin A can be harmful if taken in excessive amounts in supplement form (vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin). You may also wish to consider taking beta carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A and has none of the overdose concerns of vitamin A.
Avoid toxic skin care products
Proper nutrition is vital for the maintenance of youthful, smooth, healthy skin. Though lotions, washes, and creams can sometimes help treat certain skin ailments, most skin problems stem from an internal nutritional deficiency easily remedied by altering the diet to include specific nutrients. Before you spend a fortune on expensive skin care products, try addressing the problem from the inside out.
Also, beware of the toxic chemicals used in nearly all popular skin care products, including many of the expensive brands sold in department stores. Most products contain liver-damaging and cancer-causing petroleum derivatives that pass right through the skin and enter your bloodstream, causing DNA damage that ultimately compromises the health of your entire body. Use skin care products that are truly natural and contain absolutely no parabens, petroleum products or any ingredient you cannot pronounce.
There are many quality skin care product companies to choose from. I currently recommend Pangea Organics (www.PangeaOrganics.com) and the Lluvia line from the Amazon Herb Company (http://amazondreams.amazonherb.net), which are made from rainforest botanicals and contain no artificial or chemical ingredients whatsoever.
FULL DISCLOSURE: I have no financial connection with any of the companies or products recommended here. I earn nothing from the sales of such products. No fees were paid to myself or NaturalNews for inclusion in this article.
Read More ..
"Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body's internal needs, including its nutritional needs," says Dr. Georgiana Donadio, founder of the National Institute of Whole Health.
Recent research has shown that the skin reacts particularly well to certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that nourish the skin, making it appear youthful and healthy. The following nutrients are among the very best to consume for healthy, young-looking skin:
Silica:Silica is a trace mineral that strengthens the body's connective tissues - muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments, nails, cartilage, and bone - and is vital for healthy skin. Silica deficiency can result in reduced skin elasticity and can hamper the body's ability to heal wounds. Food sources of silica include leeks, green beans, garbanzo beans, strawberries, cucumber, mango, celery, asparagus and rhubarb. In its natural form, silica is found in the horsetail herb. Silica is also available as a concentrated liquid supplement from Eidon Ionic Minerals (www.eidon.com)
Zinc: The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell. Zinc consumption is also strongly linked to a reduction of prostate cancer.
Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, Brazil nuts, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.
The typical American diet is overabundant in omega-6 fatty acids found in baked goods and grains, and lacking in omega-3s, found in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and safflower oil. Simply balancing the intake of omega-3s with omega-6s can result in smoother, younger-looking skin. EFAs are also available in supplement form - such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil - and are effective at treating a wide range of disorders, from depression and cancer to arthritis and heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 oils include chia seeds, flax seeds and, for non-vegetarians, wild-harvested fish oils. A reputable supplier of fish oils is Nordic Naturals (www.NordicNaturals.com)
Selenium: Selenium is an antioxidant mineral responsible for tissue elasticity. It also acts to prevent cell damage by free radicals and is will known to be correlated with a reduction of breast cancer risk. It may play an important role in preventing skin cancer, as it can protect the skin from damage from excessive ultraviolet light.
Dietary sources of selenium include wheat germ, seafood such as tuna and salmon, garlic, Brazil nuts, eggs, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread. Brazil nuts are perhaps the best source, and eating just 3-4 Brazil nuts per day provides adequate selenium intake for most people. A good source of raw brazil nuts is www.RawFood.com
Vitamins C, E and A: Vitamin C is highly effective at reducing free radical damage, such as that caused by overexposure to the sun or pollution. Free radicals consume collagen and elastin - the fibers that support skin structure - and can cause wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. Vitamin C is especially effective at protecting the skin from overexposure to the sun when combined with vitamin E. Foods high in vitamin C include acerola (a cherry-like fruit), red and green bell peppers, guava, kale, parsley, collard greens, turnips, and broccoli.
Wherever possible, consumers are advised to get their vitamin C from a whole food source, and not to confuse synthetic vitamin C (ascorbic acid) with the real thing from plants (which is full spectrum vitamin C that goes way beyond ascorbic acid). A good source of whole food vitamins is Botani (http://www.alohabay.com/botani/index.html)
In terms of topical applications of vitamin C for your skin, there's nothing on the market that even comes close to a product called Camu C Serum manufactured by the Amazon Herb Company (http://amazondreams.amazonherb.net/Lluv...), which is made from Camu Camu berries -- the highest natural source of full-spectrum vitamin C.
Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant that reduces the effects of sun exposure on the skin. When combined with vitamin A, vitamin E is especially effective at preventing certain skin cancers. Vitamin E also reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and, when applied topically, soothes dry or rough skin. Food sources of vitamin E include wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, safflower and sunflower oils, almonds, spinach, peaches, prunes, tomatoes, cabbage, asparagus, and avocados.
Avoid synthetic vitamin E supplements, as they have been shown to actually harm health. Only consume natural vitamin E from a reputable source such as the Life Extension Foundation (www.LEF.org)
Vitamin A promotes proper repair and maintenance of the skin, and deficiencies can result in a dry, flaky complexion. Topical vitamin A treatments are often used to treat acne and other skin ailments. Foods high in vitamin A include liver, chili peppers, dandelion, carrots, apricots, collard greens, kale, sweet potatoes, spinach, and cantaloupe.
It's best to consume vitamin A from natural food sources rather than supplementing it, as vitamin A can be harmful if taken in excessive amounts in supplement form (vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin). You may also wish to consider taking beta carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A and has none of the overdose concerns of vitamin A.
Avoid toxic skin care products
Proper nutrition is vital for the maintenance of youthful, smooth, healthy skin. Though lotions, washes, and creams can sometimes help treat certain skin ailments, most skin problems stem from an internal nutritional deficiency easily remedied by altering the diet to include specific nutrients. Before you spend a fortune on expensive skin care products, try addressing the problem from the inside out.
Also, beware of the toxic chemicals used in nearly all popular skin care products, including many of the expensive brands sold in department stores. Most products contain liver-damaging and cancer-causing petroleum derivatives that pass right through the skin and enter your bloodstream, causing DNA damage that ultimately compromises the health of your entire body. Use skin care products that are truly natural and contain absolutely no parabens, petroleum products or any ingredient you cannot pronounce.
There are many quality skin care product companies to choose from. I currently recommend Pangea Organics (www.PangeaOrganics.com) and the Lluvia line from the Amazon Herb Company (http://amazondreams.amazonherb.net), which are made from rainforest botanicals and contain no artificial or chemical ingredients whatsoever.
FULL DISCLOSURE: I have no financial connection with any of the companies or products recommended here. I earn nothing from the sales of such products. No fees were paid to myself or NaturalNews for inclusion in this article.
Read More ..
5 Face Lift Exercises to Look Younger
Imagine getting a facelift without paying for surgery or having to go under a knife! Imagine getting rid of sagging muscles and puffy skin without spending a dime! Yeah, so, what's the catch, you ask. Nothing!
Face lift exercises do a much better job of rejuvenating your facial muscles than face lift surgery. Besides being prohibitively expensive, surgery is painful and its results are very transitory. Which is why people who go under the knife have to do it time and again to keep their young and supple look. But with the help of the following 5 facelift exercises, you can beat old age, wrinkles and sagging skin for a long time.
Pucker your lips as tight as you can, just as if you were going to whistle. Shut your eyes and force your lip to the front as though you were trying to reach some object in front of you. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Then, do the reverse. Open your eyes and mouth as wide as you can. Work at pulling all your muscles as far away from your mouth as possible. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Repeat the cycle five times.
Gently place a finger each under your eyes while looking down. Then, with the muscles of your lower lids, try to lift your fingers. Release and relax. Repeat.
Clench your teeth and purse your lips tightly. Force the corners of your mouth down towards the chin, so that all the muscles of the neck are under stress. Next, do the reverse. Raise the chin muscles and contract the corners of the mouth. Repeat.
Lie down on your back and rest your head on the ground. Slowly raise the head and bring your chin towards your chest. Hold for a count of ten. Lower your head and relax. Repeat.
Puff your cheeks and purse your lips tightly, just as if you were holding a mouthful of water. Slap your cheeks with your hands for a minute. This may sound like a punishment, but it does wonders for your skin because of the added blood supply.
For maximum benefit, round off your face lift exercises with a gentle face massage.
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Face lift exercises do a much better job of rejuvenating your facial muscles than face lift surgery. Besides being prohibitively expensive, surgery is painful and its results are very transitory. Which is why people who go under the knife have to do it time and again to keep their young and supple look. But with the help of the following 5 facelift exercises, you can beat old age, wrinkles and sagging skin for a long time.
Pucker your lips as tight as you can, just as if you were going to whistle. Shut your eyes and force your lip to the front as though you were trying to reach some object in front of you. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Then, do the reverse. Open your eyes and mouth as wide as you can. Work at pulling all your muscles as far away from your mouth as possible. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Repeat the cycle five times.
Gently place a finger each under your eyes while looking down. Then, with the muscles of your lower lids, try to lift your fingers. Release and relax. Repeat.
Clench your teeth and purse your lips tightly. Force the corners of your mouth down towards the chin, so that all the muscles of the neck are under stress. Next, do the reverse. Raise the chin muscles and contract the corners of the mouth. Repeat.
Lie down on your back and rest your head on the ground. Slowly raise the head and bring your chin towards your chest. Hold for a count of ten. Lower your head and relax. Repeat.
Puff your cheeks and purse your lips tightly, just as if you were holding a mouthful of water. Slap your cheeks with your hands for a minute. This may sound like a punishment, but it does wonders for your skin because of the added blood supply.
For maximum benefit, round off your face lift exercises with a gentle face massage.
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Prevent age spots
Most people don't care about aging and problems that come with old age, until the time finally comes. However, a large number of problems and diseases often linked to old age are actually related to the habits a person had when he was young. Age spots (also known as liver spots) are the early signs of an aging organism. Although usually they become clearly visible only when we're older, they start appearing in one's early twenties. What causes age spots and how can they be prevented?
Age spots are as natural as wrinkles; however some blemishes might be signs of skin cancer. Every unusual freckle or mole should be examined by medics, the same goes for age spots. Although the condition is often called liver spots, it is not related to the liver. Age spots were believed to be linked to liver malfunctions until this hypothesis was examined and denied. Liver malfunctions can influence skin appearance; age spots, however, are, for the most part, caused by age and sun damage. Sometimes no measures of prevention can grant clean skin - this is usually because of the person's genetic predisposition. Age spots can even be caused by emotional stress in rare cases.
Basically, age spots appear because of regular exposure to the sun and the skin's inability to regenerate at an older age. Those that enjoy sun bathing (and other sources of ultra-violet radiation) are more likely to have age spots. They appear on the face and shoulders, the back of arms and hands - the parts of the body which endure most of the hazardous exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Protecting yourself from the sun is the best method to reduce the chance of developing "liver spots". Limit the time you spend in direct sunlight and wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible. These measures along with sun block are the most helpful in preventing age spots.
A healthy lifestyle can help preventing age spots as well. The skin regenerates constantly, but the process becomes slower and slower as we grow old. A proper diet and exercise can improve the regeneration process, because they make the skin more elastic. Lifestyle and nutrition have important roles when it comes to the condition of a person's skin. If you exercise, avoid toxins, build up and free radicals, you skin will be able to keep elasticity when you're older. And proper nutrition which provides the skin cells with the humidity it needs helps the regeneration process. Remember that tobacco, caffeine and alcohol are detrimental to the skin.
The spots usually are darker than the normal skin tone, so people often consider them un-aesthetical. Age spots are natural; usually they are neither symptoms nor results of any disease and they don't require a treatment. Many people, however, urge to remove them for cosmetic reasons. The color of age spots varies from light tan to dark brown. The most popular and most affordable way to treat liver spots is bleaching. There are many cosmetic creams for bleaching: the ones promoted by big brands, homeopathic ones and even homemade mixtures. Sometimes age spots are treated as scars, they are both damaged skin areas after all. The harsh way treatmen...
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Age spots are as natural as wrinkles; however some blemishes might be signs of skin cancer. Every unusual freckle or mole should be examined by medics, the same goes for age spots. Although the condition is often called liver spots, it is not related to the liver. Age spots were believed to be linked to liver malfunctions until this hypothesis was examined and denied. Liver malfunctions can influence skin appearance; age spots, however, are, for the most part, caused by age and sun damage. Sometimes no measures of prevention can grant clean skin - this is usually because of the person's genetic predisposition. Age spots can even be caused by emotional stress in rare cases.
Basically, age spots appear because of regular exposure to the sun and the skin's inability to regenerate at an older age. Those that enjoy sun bathing (and other sources of ultra-violet radiation) are more likely to have age spots. They appear on the face and shoulders, the back of arms and hands - the parts of the body which endure most of the hazardous exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Protecting yourself from the sun is the best method to reduce the chance of developing "liver spots". Limit the time you spend in direct sunlight and wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible. These measures along with sun block are the most helpful in preventing age spots.
A healthy lifestyle can help preventing age spots as well. The skin regenerates constantly, but the process becomes slower and slower as we grow old. A proper diet and exercise can improve the regeneration process, because they make the skin more elastic. Lifestyle and nutrition have important roles when it comes to the condition of a person's skin. If you exercise, avoid toxins, build up and free radicals, you skin will be able to keep elasticity when you're older. And proper nutrition which provides the skin cells with the humidity it needs helps the regeneration process. Remember that tobacco, caffeine and alcohol are detrimental to the skin.
The spots usually are darker than the normal skin tone, so people often consider them un-aesthetical. Age spots are natural; usually they are neither symptoms nor results of any disease and they don't require a treatment. Many people, however, urge to remove them for cosmetic reasons. The color of age spots varies from light tan to dark brown. The most popular and most affordable way to treat liver spots is bleaching. There are many cosmetic creams for bleaching: the ones promoted by big brands, homeopathic ones and even homemade mixtures. Sometimes age spots are treated as scars, they are both damaged skin areas after all. The harsh way treatmen...
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