What a great article! Here's a quick sneak peak: What we sometimes forget—and the media are helping us lose our memories in this regard—is that beauty, style, sensuality, generosity, wit, and charm have no expiration dates. We must learn to believe this and act accordingly. Act like a French woman.
http://womensvoicesforchange.org/age-defying-secrets-of-les-femmes-francaises.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+womensvoicesforchange+%28New+from+Women%27s+Voices+for+Change%29
Friday, December 2, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
Flower Flower on the Wall..
Who's the fairest of them all?
Find out why looking into a flower instead of a mirror can help us achieve beauty from the inside out. Crazy? Kind of...but we women will do anything to be gorgeous.
Why consider flowers? Find out by following the link below:
http://www.positivehealth.com/article/flower-essences/flowers-and-colour-as-a-healing-tool
Find out why looking into a flower instead of a mirror can help us achieve beauty from the inside out. Crazy? Kind of...but we women will do anything to be gorgeous.
Why consider flowers? Find out by following the link below:
http://www.positivehealth.com/article/flower-essences/flowers-and-colour-as-a-healing-tool
Thursday, October 6, 2011
C SPOT RUN! RUN SPOT RUN WITH THE HELP OF VITAMIN C AND THEN SOME...
Your acne is clearing up and your skin is looking better every day. But then you notice dark pink or brown spots on your skin where the acne lesions have healed. Is it scarring? And what can you do about it?
A post inflammatory hyperpigmentation macule often is the remnant of an inflamed acne lesion. PIH macules can follow relatively minor pimples and papules, in addition to more serious lesions. However, the more inflamed a breakout, the larger and darker the PIH macule tends to be. Picking or popping a pimple increases the chance of developing post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Treating PIH
Most acne sufferers are relieved to learn that post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is not scarring. PIH will fade away over time, even without treatment. It can take three to 24 months for PIH to fully fade, although in some cases it may take longer. The length of time it takes for PIH to fade depends on how dark the PIH macule is compared to your skin tone. The bigger the contrast between the macule and your natural skin tone, the longer it will take to fade.
There are treatment options available to help fade post inflammatory hyperpigmentation more quickly. However, your acne should be under control before beginning any treatment for PIH. Otherwise, each new pimple could cause another PIH macule, reducing the effectiveness of treatment.
Whatever treatment option you choose, understand that improvement will take time. Think in terms of months rather than weeks. Also, many dermatologist recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. The sun may darken the discolorations and increase fading time.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Mild cases of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation may respond well to over-the-counter products. There is a plethora of "brightening" treatment products on the market today. Many use a combination of alpha and beta hydroxy acids (including glycolic acid), vitamin A, vitamin C, and other ingredients to exfoliate the skin. Others, such as M.D. Forte Skin Bleaching Gel, use lightening agents to fade discolorations.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a widely used treatment for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is available over-the-counter at 1% to 2% strength, and in 3% to 4% prescription creams. Hydroquinone works by blocking the enzyme responsible for melanin production, thereby lightening the skin.
Hydroquinone creams often contain additional lightening ingredients, such as kojic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin and other retinoids, or vitamin C. These combination creams can give you better results than using hydroquinone alone.
Topical Retinoids
Retinoids, such as tretinoin and tazarotene, are often prescribed to acne patients. Retinoids help clear acne by speeding up cell turnover rates. It is this rapid exfoliation that can also help clear PIH. Retinoid creams include Retin-A, Tazorac, and Differin. The fact that they lessen post inflammatory hyperpigmentation as they treat acne breakouts is an added benefit for many people.
Obvious results may not be apparent for several weeks to several months after beginning treatment. Topical retinoids may cause excessive dryness, redness, and/or irritation, which may in turn increase hyperpigmentation. Let your doctor know right if you experience any of these side effects.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid found in many skin care products. It effectively exfoliates the skin, helping to lighten post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Available in cleansers, creams, and gels, glycolic acid not only helps improve postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, but also leaves your skin smooth and soft.
**4N21 USES GRAPE, FLOWER, FRUIT AND PUMPKIN EXTRACTS TO TREAT UNWANTED SPOTS!
WWW.4N21.COM
A post inflammatory hyperpigmentation macule often is the remnant of an inflamed acne lesion. PIH macules can follow relatively minor pimples and papules, in addition to more serious lesions. However, the more inflamed a breakout, the larger and darker the PIH macule tends to be. Picking or popping a pimple increases the chance of developing post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Treating PIH
Most acne sufferers are relieved to learn that post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is not scarring. PIH will fade away over time, even without treatment. It can take three to 24 months for PIH to fully fade, although in some cases it may take longer. The length of time it takes for PIH to fade depends on how dark the PIH macule is compared to your skin tone. The bigger the contrast between the macule and your natural skin tone, the longer it will take to fade.
There are treatment options available to help fade post inflammatory hyperpigmentation more quickly. However, your acne should be under control before beginning any treatment for PIH. Otherwise, each new pimple could cause another PIH macule, reducing the effectiveness of treatment.
Whatever treatment option you choose, understand that improvement will take time. Think in terms of months rather than weeks. Also, many dermatologist recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. The sun may darken the discolorations and increase fading time.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Mild cases of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation may respond well to over-the-counter products. There is a plethora of "brightening" treatment products on the market today. Many use a combination of alpha and beta hydroxy acids (including glycolic acid), vitamin A, vitamin C, and other ingredients to exfoliate the skin. Others, such as M.D. Forte Skin Bleaching Gel, use lightening agents to fade discolorations.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a widely used treatment for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is available over-the-counter at 1% to 2% strength, and in 3% to 4% prescription creams. Hydroquinone works by blocking the enzyme responsible for melanin production, thereby lightening the skin.
Hydroquinone creams often contain additional lightening ingredients, such as kojic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin and other retinoids, or vitamin C. These combination creams can give you better results than using hydroquinone alone.
Topical Retinoids
Retinoids, such as tretinoin and tazarotene, are often prescribed to acne patients. Retinoids help clear acne by speeding up cell turnover rates. It is this rapid exfoliation that can also help clear PIH. Retinoid creams include Retin-A, Tazorac, and Differin. The fact that they lessen post inflammatory hyperpigmentation as they treat acne breakouts is an added benefit for many people.
Obvious results may not be apparent for several weeks to several months after beginning treatment. Topical retinoids may cause excessive dryness, redness, and/or irritation, which may in turn increase hyperpigmentation. Let your doctor know right if you experience any of these side effects.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid found in many skin care products. It effectively exfoliates the skin, helping to lighten post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Available in cleansers, creams, and gels, glycolic acid not only helps improve postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, but also leaves your skin smooth and soft.
**4N21 USES GRAPE, FLOWER, FRUIT AND PUMPKIN EXTRACTS TO TREAT UNWANTED SPOTS!
WWW.4N21.COM
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Eat up pretty lady!
Want to make yourself look beautiful naturally? Here are some helpful tips...
Stop buying creams and potions that promise whiter teeth, healthier hair and brighter skin – you can achieve your beauty goals by changing your diet. Beauty comes from within, so treat your body right and eat your way to better looks with these healthy foods.
Whiter Teeth: Celery
Want to brighten up your smile? Swap your whitening strips for a crunchy midday snack. Celery contains fibrous cellulose that scrubs away teeth stains as you chew it.
Strong Nails: Walnuts
Brittle nails that are soft, thin and easily torn are a problem for many women. The solution is biotin, a B vitamin that helps strengthen nails. Before opting for a biotin supplement, try snacking on walnuts. As well as being an excellent source of biotin, walnuts are rich in other beauty enhancers – like wrinkle-reducing omega-3s.
Healthy Hair: Beans
Any well balanced diet should contain a substantial amount of protein but this is particularly true for those looking to improve the state of their hair. Try eating protein-rich beans for stronger, healthier hair that won’t break.
Flawless Skin: Squash, Liver and Salmon
The key to flawless skin is what you put into your body – not what you smear on it. The antioxidants responsible for glowing, youthful skin – called carotenoids – can be found in squash and other colorful fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids fight free radicals and help to protect skin against damage and disease, while vitamin A-rich foods like liver will help prevent dry skin and help you to look beautiful naturally.
For the best defense against wrinkles make sure to pack your diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Found in great quantities in food like salmon, omega-3s reduce inflammation in the body as well as reinforce cell membranes, improving their ability to retain water, yielding softer, smoother skin.
Stop buying creams and potions that promise whiter teeth, healthier hair and brighter skin – you can achieve your beauty goals by changing your diet. Beauty comes from within, so treat your body right and eat your way to better looks with these healthy foods.
Whiter Teeth: Celery
Want to brighten up your smile? Swap your whitening strips for a crunchy midday snack. Celery contains fibrous cellulose that scrubs away teeth stains as you chew it.
Strong Nails: Walnuts
Brittle nails that are soft, thin and easily torn are a problem for many women. The solution is biotin, a B vitamin that helps strengthen nails. Before opting for a biotin supplement, try snacking on walnuts. As well as being an excellent source of biotin, walnuts are rich in other beauty enhancers – like wrinkle-reducing omega-3s.
Healthy Hair: Beans
Any well balanced diet should contain a substantial amount of protein but this is particularly true for those looking to improve the state of their hair. Try eating protein-rich beans for stronger, healthier hair that won’t break.
Flawless Skin: Squash, Liver and Salmon
The key to flawless skin is what you put into your body – not what you smear on it. The antioxidants responsible for glowing, youthful skin – called carotenoids – can be found in squash and other colorful fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids fight free radicals and help to protect skin against damage and disease, while vitamin A-rich foods like liver will help prevent dry skin and help you to look beautiful naturally.
For the best defense against wrinkles make sure to pack your diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Found in great quantities in food like salmon, omega-3s reduce inflammation in the body as well as reinforce cell membranes, improving their ability to retain water, yielding softer, smoother skin.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN STRESS & ACNE?
There is a link between adult acne and stress, and research has proven this link. (In fact, acne is considered one of the main culprits when it comes to acne in adults.) This happens because, when your body is stressed, the increase in stress hormones can throw off your equilibrium and you can experience all sorts of changes, such as weight gain, increased blood pressure, and worsened acne. Experts are divided on whether stress creates acne or just worsens it, but it does increase the amount of oil your skin secretes, which can clog pores and cause breakouts.
One way to tell if acne is stress-related is to be aware of when breakouts tend to occur, and examine your stress levels from the preceeding week. If breakouts tend to match up with the times that your body is feeling stressed, there is probably a link. (If, however, you always tend to get acne on specific spots like the right side of your chin or your left cheek, that could actually be due to environmental factors like your cell phone resting on your face as you talk.)
You can practice stress management techniques to keep stress-related acne in check, and be sure to wash your face regularly as well. I also recommend exfoliating and even using a home microdermabrasion kit, which removes the top layer of skin and stimulates new, fresh skin to grow, but I'm not a dermatologist, so that recommendation is only a lay opinion.
One way to tell if acne is stress-related is to be aware of when breakouts tend to occur, and examine your stress levels from the preceeding week. If breakouts tend to match up with the times that your body is feeling stressed, there is probably a link. (If, however, you always tend to get acne on specific spots like the right side of your chin or your left cheek, that could actually be due to environmental factors like your cell phone resting on your face as you talk.)
You can practice stress management techniques to keep stress-related acne in check, and be sure to wash your face regularly as well. I also recommend exfoliating and even using a home microdermabrasion kit, which removes the top layer of skin and stimulates new, fresh skin to grow, but I'm not a dermatologist, so that recommendation is only a lay opinion.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
HOW THE POWER OF VISUALIZATION CAN MAKE YOU FEEL AND LOOK BEAUTIFUL FROM THE INSIDE OUT!
Brain studies now reveal that thoughts produce the same mental instructions as actions. Mental imagery impacts many cognitive processes in the brain: motor control, attention, perception, planning, and memory. So the brain is getting trained for actual performance during visualization. It’s been found that mental practices can enhance motivation, increase confidence and self-efficacy, improve motor performance, prime your brain for success, and Begin by establishing a highly specific goal. Imagine the future; you have already achieved your goal. Hold a metal ‘picture’ of it as if it were occurring to you right at that moment. Imagine the scene in as much detail as possible. Engage as many of the five senses as you can in your visualization. Who are you with? Which emotions are you feeling right now? What are you wearing? Is there a smell in the air? What do you hear? What is your environment? – all relevant to achieving your best life!
Now imagine how visualization can relate to feeling and looking beautiful. Surely, there’s a mind/body connection. Think about how great you feel after a new haircut, after buying a new outfit or when you’re face is glowing without imperfections. Unstoppable, right?
How does 4N21 come into play? The answer is simple:
1.See yourself ordering your all-in-one 4N21 Skin System by visiting www.4n21.com
2.It’s only $32.72, and that alone makes you feel great! You are benefitting from an entire face regimen in just 1 pump! See it! And believe it!
3.Imagine your skin glowing from the inside out as 4N21 Skin System transforms your complexion through exfoliation, toning, prepping and moisturizing.
4.See yourself taking 4N21 anywhere! Throw it in your carry-on bag, your gym bag, diaper bag & so on…it’s portable bottle keeps you feeling and looking gorgeous anywhere you go!
There it is… 4 Ways that 4N21 uses the power of visualization to achieve true beauty!
Now apply this method to all aspects of life, and you WILL have what you want. Go on & see for yourself!
Now imagine how visualization can relate to feeling and looking beautiful. Surely, there’s a mind/body connection. Think about how great you feel after a new haircut, after buying a new outfit or when you’re face is glowing without imperfections. Unstoppable, right?
How does 4N21 come into play? The answer is simple:
1.See yourself ordering your all-in-one 4N21 Skin System by visiting www.4n21.com
2.It’s only $32.72, and that alone makes you feel great! You are benefitting from an entire face regimen in just 1 pump! See it! And believe it!
3.Imagine your skin glowing from the inside out as 4N21 Skin System transforms your complexion through exfoliation, toning, prepping and moisturizing.
4.See yourself taking 4N21 anywhere! Throw it in your carry-on bag, your gym bag, diaper bag & so on…it’s portable bottle keeps you feeling and looking gorgeous anywhere you go!
There it is… 4 Ways that 4N21 uses the power of visualization to achieve true beauty!
Now apply this method to all aspects of life, and you WILL have what you want. Go on & see for yourself!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
HOW TO USE HOME REMEDIES FOR ACNE SCARS
We at 4N21 know how hard it is to navigate through all of the great advice we hear when it comes to home remedies. So, we've created a few guidelines that are safe for everyone to go by:
1.ALWAYS do a Skin Test - Your skin is as unique as you. Even those ingredients which might seem to be very gentle for MOST people, might not work for you.
Test any home remedies for acne scars FIRST back of your arm or the inside of your ear and then wait a day to see how your skin reacts. If you have no reaction, you are more likely to get a positive result from your homemade acne treatments.
2.Use Home Remedies Consistently - No matter what acne scar healing treatment you choose, will need to use it consistently in order to see results. Natural treatments often take longer before you see results.
3.Cleanse, Tone, Prep and Moisturize Daily with 4N21 Skin System- Even if you have acne outbreaks, you still need to cleanse, tone, prep and moisturize your skin.
We have seen the best results for acne with gentle hypoallergenic skin care products and personal care products that are free from toxins AND also free from plant allergens. These can help your skin to heal quicker, and will reduce future acne outbreaks.
4.Use a Holistic Approach - Any home remedies for acne scars that you use will work MUCH more effectively if you also pay attention to the food you are eating, and to your overall health.
Recent research suggests that you can reduce acne outbreaks and scarring simply by eliminating refined and processed food and eating a more natural diet.
1.ALWAYS do a Skin Test - Your skin is as unique as you. Even those ingredients which might seem to be very gentle for MOST people, might not work for you.
Test any home remedies for acne scars FIRST back of your arm or the inside of your ear and then wait a day to see how your skin reacts. If you have no reaction, you are more likely to get a positive result from your homemade acne treatments.
2.Use Home Remedies Consistently - No matter what acne scar healing treatment you choose, will need to use it consistently in order to see results. Natural treatments often take longer before you see results.
3.Cleanse, Tone, Prep and Moisturize Daily with 4N21 Skin System- Even if you have acne outbreaks, you still need to cleanse, tone, prep and moisturize your skin.
We have seen the best results for acne with gentle hypoallergenic skin care products and personal care products that are free from toxins AND also free from plant allergens. These can help your skin to heal quicker, and will reduce future acne outbreaks.
4.Use a Holistic Approach - Any home remedies for acne scars that you use will work MUCH more effectively if you also pay attention to the food you are eating, and to your overall health.
Recent research suggests that you can reduce acne outbreaks and scarring simply by eliminating refined and processed food and eating a more natural diet.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
It's "Fun" to Be Healthy!
Hi Shannon Goldberg,
I bumped into your blog today and was wondering if I could get your opinion on a diet/fitness app I am working on right now.
Basically, the main problem with being fit and eating healthy is motivation and willpower. It's such an abstract goal that seems overwhelming. It seems the best way to counter this is to make it into smaller, winnable games.
So my app makes living healthy, eating healthy, and fitness into a RPG game, where users earn points, "level up', and earn badges as they accomplish their health goals. Everytime they add something healthy like whole greens, and veggies to their food log, they earn points. Everytime they complete a workout, they earn points. As they achieve more and more, they'll level up and unlock badges...
Of course, to appeal to people's need for achievements/progress, I'm also adding charts, and graphs to show their progress... I think people love that sorta stuff. The whole idea is to shift people's attitude towards healthy living as fun, and enjoyable. And there's gonna be a web version for those that don't own smartphones.
What's your opinion on this idea? Would you want to know when I'm done with it? ^_^
Thanks so much!
Annon
Answer:
Dear Annon,
I think you have a wonderful idea. And to your point, I agree that people need something beyond feeling healthy and fit- they want the process of getting in shape to be "fun!"
My boyfriend actually manages a gym in New York City, and one thing we agree on, is that optimum health is achieved through building and marinating a healthy lifestyle. It’s not about only eating healthy, only working out, or temporarily getting into shape. It’s about changing your overall attitude toward healthy living- which is the holistic approach. Once this is realized, people recognize that the “fun” is in looking and feeling good, and the reward is in the overall satisfaction one feels when they achieve a healthy mind and body.
In regards to skin care, the field I represent, people ask me similar questions about attaining a healthy complexion. What I try to emphasize is that it’s not about buying the best and most expensive product on the market, it’s about everything…
· Staying Hydrated
· Eating Healthy
· A Peaceful Mind
· Working Out
· Staying away from smoking and alcohol
· And Beauty Sleep
Yes, this is a laundry list of things to maintain and establish in order to just look and feel great, but that’s precisely my point. You cannot achieve great skin without establishing balance in ALL of these areas- not just one or the other.
Hope this helps, and good luck with your App!
SHANNON GOLDBERG | | SKIN-01 LLC
100 CHURCH STREET | 8TH FLOOR | NEW YORK | NY 10007
T646-845-7403 | F 646-845-7301
I bumped into your blog today and was wondering if I could get your opinion on a diet/fitness app I am working on right now.
Basically, the main problem with being fit and eating healthy is motivation and willpower. It's such an abstract goal that seems overwhelming. It seems the best way to counter this is to make it into smaller, winnable games.
So my app makes living healthy, eating healthy, and fitness into a RPG game, where users earn points, "level up', and earn badges as they accomplish their health goals. Everytime they add something healthy like whole greens, and veggies to their food log, they earn points. Everytime they complete a workout, they earn points. As they achieve more and more, they'll level up and unlock badges...
Of course, to appeal to people's need for achievements/progress, I'm also adding charts, and graphs to show their progress... I think people love that sorta stuff. The whole idea is to shift people's attitude towards healthy living as fun, and enjoyable. And there's gonna be a web version for those that don't own smartphones.
What's your opinion on this idea? Would you want to know when I'm done with it? ^_^
Thanks so much!
Annon
Answer:
Dear Annon,
I think you have a wonderful idea. And to your point, I agree that people need something beyond feeling healthy and fit- they want the process of getting in shape to be "fun!"
My boyfriend actually manages a gym in New York City, and one thing we agree on, is that optimum health is achieved through building and marinating a healthy lifestyle. It’s not about only eating healthy, only working out, or temporarily getting into shape. It’s about changing your overall attitude toward healthy living- which is the holistic approach. Once this is realized, people recognize that the “fun” is in looking and feeling good, and the reward is in the overall satisfaction one feels when they achieve a healthy mind and body.
In regards to skin care, the field I represent, people ask me similar questions about attaining a healthy complexion. What I try to emphasize is that it’s not about buying the best and most expensive product on the market, it’s about everything…
· Staying Hydrated
· Eating Healthy
· A Peaceful Mind
· Working Out
· Staying away from smoking and alcohol
· And Beauty Sleep
Yes, this is a laundry list of things to maintain and establish in order to just look and feel great, but that’s precisely my point. You cannot achieve great skin without establishing balance in ALL of these areas- not just one or the other.
Hope this helps, and good luck with your App!
SHANNON GOLDBERG | | SKIN-01 LLC
100 CHURCH STREET | 8TH FLOOR | NEW YORK | NY 10007
T646-845-7403 | F 646-845-7301
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
4N21 likes the BIG 4-0!
One blog we love is,"Women's Voices for Change"
Read on about what they say about being 40 and beautiful! Clearly age is just a number, and you are what you feel..
"It’s something we have believed at Women’s Voices for Change since our founding more than five years ago: turning 40 is a time to celebrate. On Monday, the NBC News program Today took up the discussion with a look at some Gen X women who entered their 40s with gusto, not dread. Some celebrate the milestone with physical feats, like taking part in a triathlon. Others travel to beautiful parts of the world or to pampering spas. We are in full agreement with the notion that this is a time of life that presents new opportunities and we’re happy to see women embracing the second half — make that best half — of life."
Visit this link to view the online video...it's quite inspiring!
http://womensvoicesforchange.org/video-pick-today-looks-at-the-big-40.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+womensvoicesforchange+%28New+from+Women%27s+Voices+for+Change%29
Read on about what they say about being 40 and beautiful! Clearly age is just a number, and you are what you feel..
"It’s something we have believed at Women’s Voices for Change since our founding more than five years ago: turning 40 is a time to celebrate. On Monday, the NBC News program Today took up the discussion with a look at some Gen X women who entered their 40s with gusto, not dread. Some celebrate the milestone with physical feats, like taking part in a triathlon. Others travel to beautiful parts of the world or to pampering spas. We are in full agreement with the notion that this is a time of life that presents new opportunities and we’re happy to see women embracing the second half — make that best half — of life."
Visit this link to view the online video...it's quite inspiring!
http://womensvoicesforchange.org/video-pick-today-looks-at-the-big-40.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+womensvoicesforchange+%28New+from+Women%27s+Voices+for+Change%29
Friday, July 15, 2011
Your Skin And The Foods You Eat
Many authorities have a good reason to champion the fact that food nutrients such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and omega oils are now showing up in personal care products. According to studies published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Food and Chemical Toxicology and Environmental Health Perspectives, skin can absorb up to 60 percent of what we apply to it. So, feeding skin high-quality ingredients may be as critical as the food we eat.
It's common knowledge that drinking a sufficient amount of pure water is essential for overall health and radiant skin. Here is a look at how other recommended foods contribute to ageless beauty.
Avocado - Avocados are abundant in skin-beautifying goodies: omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed; antioxidant vitamins A and E; fortifying B-complex vitamins; lecithin, to protect and strengthen cell walls; and potassium, to support new cell growth. They also host a portfolio of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds -- including phytosterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, zinc and folate -- that fight free radicals and repair, soothe and renew skin and tissue on a cellular level.
Blueberries - The Tufts University Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging reports that blueberries contain some of the highest antioxidant levels of any food, especially when fully ripe, and teem with skin-healing, anti-inflammatory properties. The deep, purple-blue color of these morsels is a reflection of the pigment-rich antioxidant phytonutrients, called anthocynanins, shown to improve the integrity of collagen in skin and inhibit photoaging (sun damage), according to a study in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology.
Chocolate - Chocolate offers a wealth of antioxidant catechins (like those found in green tea), and according to the National Academy of Sciences and the European Journal of Nutrition, works to improve hydration, skin density and circulation of blood to skin tissues, for a more youthful, glowing complexion.
Scientific American and the Journal of Investigative Dermatology report that chocolate is also a supreme source of procyanidins, which counter skin damage and help protect it while stimulating cellular growth and renewal. Dark chocolate offers the most beautifying benefits per bite, so look for 65 percent or higher cocoa content, and keep the portions small to mindfully manage calorie and fat intake.
Cruciferous Vegetable - The crucifer family -- including cabbage, broccoli, kale, Swiss chard and radishes -- is loaded with skin-beautifying compounds. According to studies by the National Academy of Sciences, its sulfur-containing phytonutrients boost the body's natural detoxification enzymes to combat and repair damage to skin. Low in calories, these mineral-dense and antioxidant-rich veggies are packed with carotenoid antioxidants, which help neutralize carcinogens and oxidative stress on skin, reduce inflammation, and bolster immune response. They also contain isothiacynates, which research published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows, specifically guard against breast cancer.
Dark Leafy Greens - Dark leafy vegetables, such as collard greens, kale, parsley, spinach and Swiss chard, offer more nutrients with fewer calories than any other food. Like cruciferous veggies, they're packed with carotenoid antioxidants. Green veggies are also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which the body needs to produce and regulate the sebum in our skin and hair follicles for healthy, well-conditioned skin and a supple complexion.
Green Tea - Green tea is infused with a potent portfolio of age-defying antioxidants. Because green tea is minimally processed, of all the teas it offers the most antioxidant polyphenols, including a specific catechin, believed to inhibit cancer and also beautify the skin.
Micro- and Macro-Algae - Micro-algae - including blue-green algae, chlorella and spirulina--are among the most concentrated sources of a full spectrum of beautifying vitamins and minerals for skin and hair and are easy for the body to absorb. These single-celled plants contain one of the highest sources by weight of protein, beta-carotene, nucleic acids (RNA/DNA) and chlorophyll of any food on the planet according to studies published by the American Society for Microbiology. Micro-algae are available in capsules or tablets, as well as in powder form for powerhouse smoothies.
Ocean-growing seaweed (macro-algae) contains more minerals and trace minerals than any other food according to research published by Food Chemistry -- 10 to 20 times more than many land vegetables (Note from Renée - can take this out for word count). Long prized for their beautifying effects on skin and hair, sea vegetables are an abundant source of antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, as well as B-complex vitamins, including B12, for glowing skin; plus the unique ergosterol, which converts into vitamin D2 in the body to support healthy skin cell metabolism and growth. Look for sea veggies arame, dulse, hijiki, nori and wakame for a concentrated source of age-defying nutrition.
Omega Oils - Healthy oils, including omega fatty acids, grow and nourish healthy, glowing skin, strong nails and lustrous hair. They act as a conditioner for skin, maintaining and supporting healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed.
Uncooked oils offer many beautifying benefits; because many nutrients are damaged and destroyed by heat--the fresher and less refined the oil, the better. Foods rich in omegas include flax seed and oil; olives and olive oil; pumpkin seed and oil; walnuts; and winter squash.
Raw Honey - With an ample spread of vitamins and minerals, such as antioxidant vitamins A, C and E; skin-supportive vitamins D and K; amino acids; and fortifying, reparative, B-complex vitamins, raw honey's combined flower nectar and enzymes are laden with beautifying nutrients, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and healing compounds. The benefits are largely determined by the honey's the source and the environmental conditions in which the bees live.
Red Wine - Loaded with beneficial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoids, red wine is a well-known source of cell-protecting resveratrol. Concentrated in the skin of grapes and championed for anti-aging and anticancer properties in studies published by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology and Anticancer Research, resveratrol appears to protect the skin against the sun's ultraviolet radiation, notes research in Neoplasia. Cabernet Sauvignon grapes contain some of the highest concentration of age-defying antioxidants.
So, eat and drink up!
It's common knowledge that drinking a sufficient amount of pure water is essential for overall health and radiant skin. Here is a look at how other recommended foods contribute to ageless beauty.
Avocado - Avocados are abundant in skin-beautifying goodies: omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed; antioxidant vitamins A and E; fortifying B-complex vitamins; lecithin, to protect and strengthen cell walls; and potassium, to support new cell growth. They also host a portfolio of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds -- including phytosterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, zinc and folate -- that fight free radicals and repair, soothe and renew skin and tissue on a cellular level.
Blueberries - The Tufts University Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging reports that blueberries contain some of the highest antioxidant levels of any food, especially when fully ripe, and teem with skin-healing, anti-inflammatory properties. The deep, purple-blue color of these morsels is a reflection of the pigment-rich antioxidant phytonutrients, called anthocynanins, shown to improve the integrity of collagen in skin and inhibit photoaging (sun damage), according to a study in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology.
Chocolate - Chocolate offers a wealth of antioxidant catechins (like those found in green tea), and according to the National Academy of Sciences and the European Journal of Nutrition, works to improve hydration, skin density and circulation of blood to skin tissues, for a more youthful, glowing complexion.
Scientific American and the Journal of Investigative Dermatology report that chocolate is also a supreme source of procyanidins, which counter skin damage and help protect it while stimulating cellular growth and renewal. Dark chocolate offers the most beautifying benefits per bite, so look for 65 percent or higher cocoa content, and keep the portions small to mindfully manage calorie and fat intake.
Cruciferous Vegetable - The crucifer family -- including cabbage, broccoli, kale, Swiss chard and radishes -- is loaded with skin-beautifying compounds. According to studies by the National Academy of Sciences, its sulfur-containing phytonutrients boost the body's natural detoxification enzymes to combat and repair damage to skin. Low in calories, these mineral-dense and antioxidant-rich veggies are packed with carotenoid antioxidants, which help neutralize carcinogens and oxidative stress on skin, reduce inflammation, and bolster immune response. They also contain isothiacynates, which research published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows, specifically guard against breast cancer.
Dark Leafy Greens - Dark leafy vegetables, such as collard greens, kale, parsley, spinach and Swiss chard, offer more nutrients with fewer calories than any other food. Like cruciferous veggies, they're packed with carotenoid antioxidants. Green veggies are also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which the body needs to produce and regulate the sebum in our skin and hair follicles for healthy, well-conditioned skin and a supple complexion.
Green Tea - Green tea is infused with a potent portfolio of age-defying antioxidants. Because green tea is minimally processed, of all the teas it offers the most antioxidant polyphenols, including a specific catechin, believed to inhibit cancer and also beautify the skin.
Micro- and Macro-Algae - Micro-algae - including blue-green algae, chlorella and spirulina--are among the most concentrated sources of a full spectrum of beautifying vitamins and minerals for skin and hair and are easy for the body to absorb. These single-celled plants contain one of the highest sources by weight of protein, beta-carotene, nucleic acids (RNA/DNA) and chlorophyll of any food on the planet according to studies published by the American Society for Microbiology. Micro-algae are available in capsules or tablets, as well as in powder form for powerhouse smoothies.
Ocean-growing seaweed (macro-algae) contains more minerals and trace minerals than any other food according to research published by Food Chemistry -- 10 to 20 times more than many land vegetables (Note from Renée - can take this out for word count). Long prized for their beautifying effects on skin and hair, sea vegetables are an abundant source of antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, as well as B-complex vitamins, including B12, for glowing skin; plus the unique ergosterol, which converts into vitamin D2 in the body to support healthy skin cell metabolism and growth. Look for sea veggies arame, dulse, hijiki, nori and wakame for a concentrated source of age-defying nutrition.
Omega Oils - Healthy oils, including omega fatty acids, grow and nourish healthy, glowing skin, strong nails and lustrous hair. They act as a conditioner for skin, maintaining and supporting healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed.
Uncooked oils offer many beautifying benefits; because many nutrients are damaged and destroyed by heat--the fresher and less refined the oil, the better. Foods rich in omegas include flax seed and oil; olives and olive oil; pumpkin seed and oil; walnuts; and winter squash.
Raw Honey - With an ample spread of vitamins and minerals, such as antioxidant vitamins A, C and E; skin-supportive vitamins D and K; amino acids; and fortifying, reparative, B-complex vitamins, raw honey's combined flower nectar and enzymes are laden with beautifying nutrients, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and healing compounds. The benefits are largely determined by the honey's the source and the environmental conditions in which the bees live.
Red Wine - Loaded with beneficial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoids, red wine is a well-known source of cell-protecting resveratrol. Concentrated in the skin of grapes and championed for anti-aging and anticancer properties in studies published by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology and Anticancer Research, resveratrol appears to protect the skin against the sun's ultraviolet radiation, notes research in Neoplasia. Cabernet Sauvignon grapes contain some of the highest concentration of age-defying antioxidants.
So, eat and drink up!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Your Brain Has A Beauty Spot!
British scientists at the University College London have recently discovered that when people see or feel beauty in a piece of art or music a specific area of their brain “lights up.”
This beauty spot, known as the medial orbito-frontal cortex, is located at the front of the brain just a few centimetres above our eyes.
Participants in the study lied in a MRI scanner so that their brain activity could be measured while being shown pictures and music. Then they were asked to rate their experiences on a scale of 1 to beautiful. When participants saw something they thought was ugly there was little brain activity seen. When they experienced something that they rated as beautiful more activity was triggered.
While some pieces of music and art triggered similar reactions, for the most part, each volunteer perceived different things as attractive or unattractive. It just goes to show that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder….
This beauty spot, known as the medial orbito-frontal cortex, is located at the front of the brain just a few centimetres above our eyes.
Participants in the study lied in a MRI scanner so that their brain activity could be measured while being shown pictures and music. Then they were asked to rate their experiences on a scale of 1 to beautiful. When participants saw something they thought was ugly there was little brain activity seen. When they experienced something that they rated as beautiful more activity was triggered.
While some pieces of music and art triggered similar reactions, for the most part, each volunteer perceived different things as attractive or unattractive. It just goes to show that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder….
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Just 3 out of the 14 things that make us sweat
Pregnancy
Hormones surging through your body during pregnancy and an increased metabolic rate can make you hotter than usual and make your sweat glands more active. Be sure to drink enough fluid during those nine months to keep you and your baby hydrated. Once your baby arrives, you'll keep sweating more than usual for a few weeks as your body sheds the extra fluid it accumulated during pregnancy.
Love Can Make You Sweat
You might feel like you've lost your head, but falling in love actually starts in your brain, with a rush of adrenaline-like "love chemicals." These are responsible for the racing heart, sweaty palms, and other telltale physical signs that you're smitten.
Menopause and Hot Flashes
During menopause, plunging estrogen levels play tricks on the hypothalamus -- the body's temperature gauge. No matter how frigid it is outside, a hot flash will make your body think you're in the middle of a heat wave. In a desperate attempt to shed excess heat, the blood vessels in your skin dilate and your sweat glands go into overdrive, leaving you feeling flushed, sweaty, and yearning for a cold shower.
Hormones surging through your body during pregnancy and an increased metabolic rate can make you hotter than usual and make your sweat glands more active. Be sure to drink enough fluid during those nine months to keep you and your baby hydrated. Once your baby arrives, you'll keep sweating more than usual for a few weeks as your body sheds the extra fluid it accumulated during pregnancy.
Love Can Make You Sweat
You might feel like you've lost your head, but falling in love actually starts in your brain, with a rush of adrenaline-like "love chemicals." These are responsible for the racing heart, sweaty palms, and other telltale physical signs that you're smitten.
Menopause and Hot Flashes
During menopause, plunging estrogen levels play tricks on the hypothalamus -- the body's temperature gauge. No matter how frigid it is outside, a hot flash will make your body think you're in the middle of a heat wave. In a desperate attempt to shed excess heat, the blood vessels in your skin dilate and your sweat glands go into overdrive, leaving you feeling flushed, sweaty, and yearning for a cold shower.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Healthy Foods = Healthy Skin Complexion
Perfect skin actually starts from the inside out...
All the expensive skin care products in the world won't achieve healthy skin without help from your diet. Here's how you can take smarter steps to help cleanse your skin from the inside out so you can look and feel great:
• Fish contains oils that will help nourish your skin by adding luster and softness to your complexion.
• Ground flaxseeds are an excellent source of omega-three fatty acids, which promote good skin health.
• Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin. This diet includes plenty of dark orange (carrots, sweet potatoes, winter squash) and dark green (broccoli, spinach, kale) vegetables -- all of which are high in vitamin A.
• Vitamin E helps promote great skin, so eat up more nuts such as hazelnuts and almonds -- which are high in vitamin E -- as snacks.
All the expensive skin care products in the world won't achieve healthy skin without help from your diet. Here's how you can take smarter steps to help cleanse your skin from the inside out so you can look and feel great:
• Fish contains oils that will help nourish your skin by adding luster and softness to your complexion.
• Ground flaxseeds are an excellent source of omega-three fatty acids, which promote good skin health.
• Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin. This diet includes plenty of dark orange (carrots, sweet potatoes, winter squash) and dark green (broccoli, spinach, kale) vegetables -- all of which are high in vitamin A.
• Vitamin E helps promote great skin, so eat up more nuts such as hazelnuts and almonds -- which are high in vitamin E -- as snacks.
Friday, June 3, 2011
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE....
SKIN SENSITIVITIES:
Eczema: use fragrance free cleansers and moisturizers. Those containing oat extract will help control the itching.
Psoriasis: avoiding common triggers such as stress and anything you are allergic to will help, but once you have a break out, try gently exfoliating the area by adding powdered milk to bath water. This will help soften the scales. Follow with a thick coat of hypoallergenic body cream.
Rosacea: use cleansing and moisturizing products with chamomile, aloe or green tea extracts.
Acne: exercising 30 minutes a day will help regulate hormone levels, which can result in fewer breakouts. Use a soothing cleanser, with chamomile extracts and an oil-free moisturizer with salicylic acid. Use a clay based facial masque twice a week. If you have breakouts along your hairline, make sure you re thoroughly cleaning off your hair products from that area. Two other instigators may be tanning, as it thickens the skin, trapping oil, etc. and too much meat or dairy (can be hormone laden!). Try to avoid squeezing! For a quick remedy, try hydrocortisone cream on the offending spot.
Brown Spots: to lighten spots, use products with azelaic or kojic acid, green tea or vitamin C. In about 12 weeks, you should see results. Using an SPF 30, every day, is also essential.
Eczema: use fragrance free cleansers and moisturizers. Those containing oat extract will help control the itching.
Psoriasis: avoiding common triggers such as stress and anything you are allergic to will help, but once you have a break out, try gently exfoliating the area by adding powdered milk to bath water. This will help soften the scales. Follow with a thick coat of hypoallergenic body cream.
Rosacea: use cleansing and moisturizing products with chamomile, aloe or green tea extracts.
Acne: exercising 30 minutes a day will help regulate hormone levels, which can result in fewer breakouts. Use a soothing cleanser, with chamomile extracts and an oil-free moisturizer with salicylic acid. Use a clay based facial masque twice a week. If you have breakouts along your hairline, make sure you re thoroughly cleaning off your hair products from that area. Two other instigators may be tanning, as it thickens the skin, trapping oil, etc. and too much meat or dairy (can be hormone laden!). Try to avoid squeezing! For a quick remedy, try hydrocortisone cream on the offending spot.
Brown Spots: to lighten spots, use products with azelaic or kojic acid, green tea or vitamin C. In about 12 weeks, you should see results. Using an SPF 30, every day, is also essential.
Friday, May 6, 2011
SPRING MUSTS!
Time to chat about the steps you can take to Spring forward this season with beauty and confidence...
First of all, keep it simple and refer to some of the items you may have at home already. Do you make morning coffee?
How about using your leftover coffee grinds as an exfoliating scrub in the shower. It's easy to forget that your body ages just like your face. Proper exfoliation is key when it comes to shaking off dry and dead skin cells to reveal smoothe and radiant skin.
Second of all, Sunscreen isnt just for Summer, it's for every season. With the bright spring sun will come new skin problems, namely "sun damage." Human skin is very sensitive to the sun and if not protected, brown spots, wrinkles, and dehydration will damage the skin.
For final touches, invest in a sheer peach gloss and the OPI Glee Collection of course. It's time to get rid of the dull and Wintery colors, and prepare for bright and cheery hues- sure to give you a little mood boost as well :)
First of all, keep it simple and refer to some of the items you may have at home already. Do you make morning coffee?
How about using your leftover coffee grinds as an exfoliating scrub in the shower. It's easy to forget that your body ages just like your face. Proper exfoliation is key when it comes to shaking off dry and dead skin cells to reveal smoothe and radiant skin.
Second of all, Sunscreen isnt just for Summer, it's for every season. With the bright spring sun will come new skin problems, namely "sun damage." Human skin is very sensitive to the sun and if not protected, brown spots, wrinkles, and dehydration will damage the skin.
For final touches, invest in a sheer peach gloss and the OPI Glee Collection of course. It's time to get rid of the dull and Wintery colors, and prepare for bright and cheery hues- sure to give you a little mood boost as well :)
Friday, March 25, 2011
THE 10 COMMANDMENTS 4 STAYING YOUNG!
1. WEAR SUNSCREEN RAIN OR SHINE
2. QUIT SMOKING
3. USE A RETINOID
4. GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP
5. STAY HYDRATED
6. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT
7. EXCERSIZE
8. EAT RIGHT
9. RELAX- NAMASTE
10. DON'T PICK YOUR FACE!
2. QUIT SMOKING
3. USE A RETINOID
4. GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP
5. STAY HYDRATED
6. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT
7. EXCERSIZE
8. EAT RIGHT
9. RELAX- NAMASTE
10. DON'T PICK YOUR FACE!
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