By Mel Driver
More and more people are becoming increasingly aware of the harmful toxins present in popular skin care products and their detrimental effects on the skin, liver and other parts of the body. Parabens, petrochemicals and sulphates are common ingredients in many personal care items such as lotions, cleansers, deodorants and even shampoos which have been linked to increased estrogen levels in the body that can increase the risk of breast cancer. Sulphates have a drying effect on the skin and strip the body of natural protective oils while petrochemicals present in your oil based cleansers can clog pores and lead to blockages and breakouts.
Fortunately, products made from natural, safe and healthy ingredients are easily available today, making it possible for you to take control of what goes into your skin care regime and ultimately get beautiful and glowing skin without compromising your overall health. Switching to natural skin care cleansers can improve your skin overnight in the following ways:
Inflammation Reduction
Ingredients like green tea extract are a popular component of many cleansers today. Green tea extract contains high levels of antioxidant compounds such as theaflavin and epigallocatechin gallate. These chemicals have shown to prevent UV damage to the skin, reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin resulting in a smoother and healthier looking skin.
Exfoliation
If you are looking for a safe and natural way to exfoliate dead skin cells and achieve glowing skin, then ingredients like kefir, yoghurt and other dairy products can help. These ingredients are high in lactic acid which dissolve the lipids on your skin and help to remove dead cells.
Antibacterial action
Many natural ingredients like honey, witch hazel and sea salt used in natural skin care products have antibacterial and antifungal properties which make them highly effective as antiseptics. As a result, you can manage skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema and others caused by microorganisms and ultimately have a smoother and less inflamed skin.
Natural Moisturising
In addition to clearing the impurities on skin and opening skin pores for better breathing, natural cleansing oils such as coconut, olive and almond provide an easily absorbed form of moisture that improves the elasticity of your skin, increases its suppleness, all of which result in softer, younger looking skin.
Skin rejuvenation
Papaya, citrus juice and coffee contain compounds that dissolve dead skin cells and reveal the younger looking cells beneath. In addition, these ingredients help to even out the skin tone and reduce puffy eyes.
Anyone looking for safe, effective and healthy cleansing options should consider using products with natural ingredients which offer a myriad of benefits to your skin and overall health. Incorporating these products into your skin care regime is among the best ways to begin seeing improvement in your skin overnight.
http://ezinearticles.com/?How-Natural-Skin-Care-Cleansers-Improve-Your-Skin-Overnight&id=9283199
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9283199
Saturday 30 January 2016
Monday 25 January 2016
Kim Kardashian's Struggles With Psoriasis
From healthaim.com
Kim Kardashian struggled with psoriasis. She made the comments during a nude photo shoot filmed for an episode of her reality TV show, Keeping Up With the Kardashians, where the 34-year-old reality star is shown confidently posing in chalky white body paint at a desert photo shoot.
Speaking in her trailer on the shoot, Kim revealed that her confidence was ultimately a choice, as she refused to let her psoriasis affect her body image.
“I have psoriasis, there is nothing I can do about it so there is no reason why I should feel uncomfortable,” she says in the clip.
Kim Kardashian posted on her website two months after revealing her condition to viewers that she covered up the blotches using Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs spray ($29.99 at The Warehouse).
“I’m using Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs spray and it is my lifesaver at the moment,” Kim wrote in her glowing endorsement. “I love this stuff! It really covers up my psoriasis so well!” according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
Causes:
1. Hereditary
2. Skin injury
3. Infections
4. HIV
5. Few Medications like lithium, high BP medications, antimalarial medications, indomethacin
6. Stress
7. Obesity
8. Smoking
9. Alcohol
Fingernail and toenail problems: Your nails may change color or become pitted. They may also begin to crumble or detach from the nail bed.
Scalp problems: Patches of scales or crust may form on your head.
Treatment
Topical treatments for psoriasis include:
1. Salicylic acid
2. Steroid-base creams
3. Calcipotriene containing topical ointment
4. Coal-tar ointments and shampoos
5. Prescription retinoids
http://www.healthaim.com/kim-kardashian-struggles-psoriasis-treat/37672
Kim Kardashian struggled with psoriasis. She made the comments during a nude photo shoot filmed for an episode of her reality TV show, Keeping Up With the Kardashians, where the 34-year-old reality star is shown confidently posing in chalky white body paint at a desert photo shoot.
Speaking in her trailer on the shoot, Kim revealed that her confidence was ultimately a choice, as she refused to let her psoriasis affect her body image.
“I have psoriasis, there is nothing I can do about it so there is no reason why I should feel uncomfortable,” she says in the clip.
Kim Kardashian posted on her website two months after revealing her condition to viewers that she covered up the blotches using Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs spray ($29.99 at The Warehouse).
“I’m using Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs spray and it is my lifesaver at the moment,” Kim wrote in her glowing endorsement. “I love this stuff! It really covers up my psoriasis so well!” according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes scaling and inflammation (pain, swelling, heat, and redness).Causes:
1. Hereditary
2. Skin injury
3. Infections
4. HIV
5. Few Medications like lithium, high BP medications, antimalarial medications, indomethacin
6. Stress
7. Obesity
8. Smoking
9. Alcohol
What Are the Symptoms?
Patches of red, inflamed skin: These are often covered with loose, silvery scales. They may be itchy and painful, even crack and bleed. In serious cases, they grow and run into each other, making large areas of irritated skin.Fingernail and toenail problems: Your nails may change color or become pitted. They may also begin to crumble or detach from the nail bed.
Scalp problems: Patches of scales or crust may form on your head.
Treatment
Topical treatments for psoriasis include:
1. Salicylic acid
2. Steroid-base creams
3. Calcipotriene containing topical ointment
4. Coal-tar ointments and shampoos
5. Prescription retinoids
http://www.healthaim.com/kim-kardashian-struggles-psoriasis-treat/37672
Sunday 24 January 2016
New Teen Psoriasis Treatment
By Leah Sarich
Randy Kneubuler says, “it’s really tough being a teenager with skin problems.” He should know. He was diagnosed with psoriasis at the age of five, but says the junior high and high school years have been a real challenge.
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease where skin cells divide up to ten times faster than normal skin cells. This process results in raised red spots on the skin that are itchy and painful. Pediatric Dermatologist Dr. Vimal Prajapati says these red areas most commonly occur on the elbows, knees and scalp. These are visible areas and Randy says kids can be mean and that causes him anxiety and hurts his self confidence and self esteem.
Randy had tried everything, speaking of his suitcase full of various skin creams. But then Dr. Prajapati put him on a new biologic medication called Stelara. This drug has just recently been approved for use in young people aged 12 to 17 with moderate to severe psoriasis. Randy says he started seeing improvement within a week of being on this medication and that his skin is starting to clear up dramatically. This improvement has helped to improve his confidence and self esteem.
Stelara is given by injection… about five a year. And Dr. Prajapati says it has very few side effects, the most common being an increase in common infections like the common cold or a sore throat. But the frequency of these infections is quite low.
This medication is very expensive. But some extended drug plans do cover it, and in certain cases the drug company that makes it may help out an individual patient.
Dr. Prajapati says when psoriasis is not treated adequately in this age group, the disease has a tremendous social and emotional burden. It can lead to depression, anxiety, isolation and more. This is why Dr. Prajapati is so thrilled with Stelara. Randy says the medication has changed his life completely. He’s now ready to look forward to graduation and his life ahead.
http://www.btcalgary.ca/2016/01/22/new-teen-psoriasis-treatment/
Randy Kneubuler says, “it’s really tough being a teenager with skin problems.” He should know. He was diagnosed with psoriasis at the age of five, but says the junior high and high school years have been a real challenge.
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease where skin cells divide up to ten times faster than normal skin cells. This process results in raised red spots on the skin that are itchy and painful. Pediatric Dermatologist Dr. Vimal Prajapati says these red areas most commonly occur on the elbows, knees and scalp. These are visible areas and Randy says kids can be mean and that causes him anxiety and hurts his self confidence and self esteem.
Randy had tried everything, speaking of his suitcase full of various skin creams. But then Dr. Prajapati put him on a new biologic medication called Stelara. This drug has just recently been approved for use in young people aged 12 to 17 with moderate to severe psoriasis. Randy says he started seeing improvement within a week of being on this medication and that his skin is starting to clear up dramatically. This improvement has helped to improve his confidence and self esteem.
Stelara is given by injection… about five a year. And Dr. Prajapati says it has very few side effects, the most common being an increase in common infections like the common cold or a sore throat. But the frequency of these infections is quite low.
This medication is very expensive. But some extended drug plans do cover it, and in certain cases the drug company that makes it may help out an individual patient.
Dr. Prajapati says when psoriasis is not treated adequately in this age group, the disease has a tremendous social and emotional burden. It can lead to depression, anxiety, isolation and more. This is why Dr. Prajapati is so thrilled with Stelara. Randy says the medication has changed his life completely. He’s now ready to look forward to graduation and his life ahead.
http://www.btcalgary.ca/2016/01/22/new-teen-psoriasis-treatment/
Tuesday 19 January 2016
5 little-known psoriasis facts
Medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks
In all likelihood you know someone with psoriasis - about 1 in 50 people in the UK has this skin condition. Regardless, many people are unaware of the true nature of psoriasis, a skin condition that has been misunderstood for centuries.
It was once thought that psoriasis was a contagious disease, so people with the condition suffered the same social stigma as those with leprosy - and the two conditions were sometimes confused. People with psoriasis were often shunned and isolated. If you had psoriasis in Medieval Europe, you would have to ring a clapper to warn others of your arrival. It was only in the 19th century that researchers classified psoriasis as a separate condition from leprosy and it wasn't until the 20th century that scientists realised it is an autoimmune disease.
Treatments for psoriasis were just as much off the mark as the misconceptions on how someone got the condition. Old-fashioned remedies included using faeces from cats and dogs, onions mixed with salt and urine, semen and goose oil, and toxic ingredients such as arsenic, nitrate and mercury. At one point, people with psoriasis were lubricated and then wrapped up in sheets for days at a time, believing that this treatment would loosen the scales.
Here are 5 facts about psoriasis to help give you a better understanding of the condition - and to dispel the myths.
http://www.webmd.boots.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/5-psoriasis-facts
In all likelihood you know someone with psoriasis - about 1 in 50 people in the UK has this skin condition. Regardless, many people are unaware of the true nature of psoriasis, a skin condition that has been misunderstood for centuries.
A history of mistaken beliefs
The name 'psoriasis' is from ancient Greek, with 'psora' meaning 'itch' and 'sis' meaning 'condition'. Psoriasis has been around for thousands of years. Some Egyptian mummies have been found that, when unwrapped, revealed the person had psoriasis. It is thought that the word 'tsaraat' which appears in the Old Testament in the Bible, used for all references to skin diseases, could possibly be referring to psoriasis at times - a person with tsaraat was thought to have been punished for a sin.It was once thought that psoriasis was a contagious disease, so people with the condition suffered the same social stigma as those with leprosy - and the two conditions were sometimes confused. People with psoriasis were often shunned and isolated. If you had psoriasis in Medieval Europe, you would have to ring a clapper to warn others of your arrival. It was only in the 19th century that researchers classified psoriasis as a separate condition from leprosy and it wasn't until the 20th century that scientists realised it is an autoimmune disease.
Treatments for psoriasis were just as much off the mark as the misconceptions on how someone got the condition. Old-fashioned remedies included using faeces from cats and dogs, onions mixed with salt and urine, semen and goose oil, and toxic ingredients such as arsenic, nitrate and mercury. At one point, people with psoriasis were lubricated and then wrapped up in sheets for days at a time, believing that this treatment would loosen the scales.
Here are 5 facts about psoriasis to help give you a better understanding of the condition - and to dispel the myths.
1. Psoriasis is more than skin deep.
If you notice patches of thick red skin covered with silvery scales on someone, you may realise that person has psoriasis. Some people mistakenly think these scales are caused by poor nutrition or hygiene, or by an allergy. However, the condition is caused by something going wrong with the immune system inside the body. The T-cells that should be fighting off bacteria and other invading germs mistakenly attack healthy skin cells. These patches occur because the skin cells have to replace themselves too quickly, within 3 to 7 days rather than the typical 3 to 4 weeks. There is inflammation and scaling at the site that can be itchy and sore.2. There's more than one type of psoriasis - and they don't all look the same.
Four out of 5 cases will be of plaque psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris), noted for dry, red scaly lesions known as plaques on the skin. Other types of psoriasis include scalp psoriasis (with patches on the scalp), nail psoriasis (half of people with psoriasis will also have malformed nails), guttate psoriasis (drop-shaped sores appear on the arms, legs, chest and scalp), inverse, or flexural, psoriasis (red shiny areas form in the folds or creases of the skin such as the armpits, groin or under the breasts, especially in hot weather), pustular psoriasis (a rare type noted by pus-filled blisters that may be generalised or limited to the palms of the hands and soles of the feet or the fingers and toes) and erythrodermic psoriasis (where nearly all the skin on the body is affected).3. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is linked to psoriasis.
On average in every 5 people with psoriasis, within 10 years of the first symptoms, one of them will have psoriatic arthritis. This condition affects the joints as well as the joins between tendon and bone. A person with PsA will have stiff joints that are tender and swollen, with pain that is more noticeable after resting; their fingers and toes will be swollen and the condition affects their nails.4. The symptoms of psoriasis often appear after a trigger.
The symptoms of psoriasis can come and go. Whether it's the first occurrence or a flare-up, the symptoms often appear after some type of trigger, including an injury to the skin (such as from a cut, scrape, sunburn, insect bite or tattoo), smoking, drinking too much alcohol, stress, a throat infection, hormonal changes (especially during puberty or menopause), certain medications or in association with other immune disorders.5. There is no cure for psoriasis, but it can be treated.
Creams and ointments applied to the skin can help clear the skin as can ultraviolet light, tablets and injections. The choice of treatment will depend on the individual - there's usually a process of trial and error to find the one that works best. Lifestyle changes such as giving up smoking and losing weight if indicated can make treatment more successful.http://www.webmd.boots.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/5-psoriasis-facts
Saturday 9 January 2016
Tips for Treating Psoriasis at Home
By Christopher Langley
Psoriasis can be a very uncomfortable skin condition which can significantly affect quality of life. Although there is no cure for this condition, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce its symptoms and even send the illness into remission. Many of the most effective remedies are actually home treatments.
One of the most important things to do to treat psoriasis at home is to moisturizer skin regularly. There are many differentiating products on the market today, some of them designed specifically to treat problematic skin conditions, and some just designed to deliver ample moisture to normal skin.
In all cases, it is a wise idea to choose skin moisturizers that are as natural as possible, as some synthetic substances can irritate the skin and can potentially trigger a flare up of psoriasis. It is also a good idea to seek out specific moisturizers that double as psoriasis treatment. You should, however, check with you dermatologist before applying any type of medicated moisturizer.
Along with moisturizing skin regularly, it is also recommended to bathe regularly using natural products such as bath salts. Certain products like Epsom salts are soothing to the skin and are also nourishing. The heat and moisturize in the bath also works to soften skin and remove the dry and flaky skin that is a symptom of psoriasis.
Care should be taken, however, to avoid bath products that can further irritate the skin. Stick instead with natural salts, oils and even oatmeal, as these are all natural additions to a warm bath that can ease the condition. You should also avoid baths that are too hot as water temperatures that are too high can aggravate this skin problem.
There are several other natural products that can be successfully applied to the skin as an effective psoriasis treatment. One of these is apple cider vinegar, which is a gentle but effective treatment for a number of health conditions. This can be applied to the skin plaques that are caused by psoriasis with a cotton wool ball.
There are also other products such as aloe Vera which have resulted in relief for many people suffering with mild psoriasis. Aloe Vera gel can be bought from health food stores and applied to the skin after bathing.
Tea tree oil is a product which has been helpful for some people with the condition, and over specialization for those who are suffering from the condition on their scalp. This oil is very strong, however, and it is wise to take precautions when using it by diluting it substantially. It can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
All of these types of home psoriasis treatment options have focused on treating the skin from the exterior, yet for best results a holistic approach is advised. Keeping the body in optimum health through what you consume will help your body cope with all conditions and illnesses much more effectively.
There are now several herbal supplements on the market which have been touted as being an effective form of psoriasis treatment. Before buying any product which claims to relieve symptoms, be absolutely sure of what you are consuming and that the ingredients are not dangerous or even illegal in your country.
If you are thinking of trying a herbal supplement, do your research thoroughly on it content sand its effectiveness. If in doubt, check with your doctor on whether nor not they believe it is suitable for you to take - they will often be knowledgeable about the over-the-counter treatments available and whether they are effective and safe or not.
Lastly, cutting down on your alcohol intake and stopping smoking can significantly help relieve the condition. Both are big factors in psoriasis flare ups, therefore eliminating these triggers will normally result in significant relief.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-for-Treating-Psoriasis-at-Home&id=9242840
Psoriasis can be a very uncomfortable skin condition which can significantly affect quality of life. Although there is no cure for this condition, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce its symptoms and even send the illness into remission. Many of the most effective remedies are actually home treatments.
One of the most important things to do to treat psoriasis at home is to moisturizer skin regularly. There are many differentiating products on the market today, some of them designed specifically to treat problematic skin conditions, and some just designed to deliver ample moisture to normal skin.
In all cases, it is a wise idea to choose skin moisturizers that are as natural as possible, as some synthetic substances can irritate the skin and can potentially trigger a flare up of psoriasis. It is also a good idea to seek out specific moisturizers that double as psoriasis treatment. You should, however, check with you dermatologist before applying any type of medicated moisturizer.
Along with moisturizing skin regularly, it is also recommended to bathe regularly using natural products such as bath salts. Certain products like Epsom salts are soothing to the skin and are also nourishing. The heat and moisturize in the bath also works to soften skin and remove the dry and flaky skin that is a symptom of psoriasis.
Care should be taken, however, to avoid bath products that can further irritate the skin. Stick instead with natural salts, oils and even oatmeal, as these are all natural additions to a warm bath that can ease the condition. You should also avoid baths that are too hot as water temperatures that are too high can aggravate this skin problem.
There are several other natural products that can be successfully applied to the skin as an effective psoriasis treatment. One of these is apple cider vinegar, which is a gentle but effective treatment for a number of health conditions. This can be applied to the skin plaques that are caused by psoriasis with a cotton wool ball.
There are also other products such as aloe Vera which have resulted in relief for many people suffering with mild psoriasis. Aloe Vera gel can be bought from health food stores and applied to the skin after bathing.
Tea tree oil is a product which has been helpful for some people with the condition, and over specialization for those who are suffering from the condition on their scalp. This oil is very strong, however, and it is wise to take precautions when using it by diluting it substantially. It can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
All of these types of home psoriasis treatment options have focused on treating the skin from the exterior, yet for best results a holistic approach is advised. Keeping the body in optimum health through what you consume will help your body cope with all conditions and illnesses much more effectively.
There are now several herbal supplements on the market which have been touted as being an effective form of psoriasis treatment. Before buying any product which claims to relieve symptoms, be absolutely sure of what you are consuming and that the ingredients are not dangerous or even illegal in your country.
If you are thinking of trying a herbal supplement, do your research thoroughly on it content sand its effectiveness. If in doubt, check with your doctor on whether nor not they believe it is suitable for you to take - they will often be knowledgeable about the over-the-counter treatments available and whether they are effective and safe or not.
Lastly, cutting down on your alcohol intake and stopping smoking can significantly help relieve the condition. Both are big factors in psoriasis flare ups, therefore eliminating these triggers will normally result in significant relief.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-for-Treating-Psoriasis-at-Home&id=9242840
Sunday 3 January 2016
7 Great Ways How Coconut Oil Can Benefit Your Health
By Ryan Jones
Coconut oil has a nearly limitless number of health benefits not only to the outside of your body but also for the inside too. Here are seven great ways how it can benefit you.
Natural Sunscreen
A lot of people don't know this, but coconut oil has its use towards protection against the sun. It contains SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of around 4-6 which isn't strong enough to be used by itself, but try using it in between reapplications of sunscreen.
Healthier Alternative When Cooking
When you next cook using oils in a pan, try using coconut oil as opposed to olive or vegetable oil. Another method is when baking. Try using coconut oil to grease your baking tray instead of butter, I find it to be a healthier alternative.
Hair Conditioner
An excellent conditioner for those with thick hair. It aids in the growth of your hair and gives your hair that great quality of shine. As well as providing essential proteins needed to treat damaged hair and keep it nourished. Coconut oil is ideal for people who suffer from dandruff. It helps to replenish the natural oils in your hair and on your scalp that you may lose after washing.
Natural Moisturizer
Regarding natural skin care, coconut oil is my choice. Not only does it act as a protection for your skin from the sun, but also as a natural moisturizer. It is an essential massage oil, which can be used for all types of skin to prevent dryness and flaking. It also aids in treating various skin diseases such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis as well as an after sun moisturizer to help cool down your skin after being in the sun. Personally, I use it to moisturize my skin after being in the shower as well as to moisturize my skin after shaving.
Boosts Nutritional Value in Smoothies
By adding coconut oil to your morning fruit smoothie, not only does it improve the texture and feel of the smoothie in your mouth, but it also boosts the compounds that fight against cholesterol, while adding healthier fats into your diet.
Energy Booster
It is a fact that coconut oil can be used to boost your energy levels. It contains a unique sort of saturated fat called medium-chain triglycerides or MCT for short, which provides a source of energy for your body.
Nappy Rash
For all you mothers out there whose child suffers from nappy rash, try using coconut oil. It contains antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties that help to promote healing as well as acts as a soothing and moisturizing agent. Apply as much as you need to the affected area as you would with regular nappy rash creams.
http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Great-Ways-How-Coconut-Oil-Can-Benefit-Your-Health&id=9248291
Coconut oil has a nearly limitless number of health benefits not only to the outside of your body but also for the inside too. Here are seven great ways how it can benefit you.
Natural Sunscreen
A lot of people don't know this, but coconut oil has its use towards protection against the sun. It contains SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of around 4-6 which isn't strong enough to be used by itself, but try using it in between reapplications of sunscreen.
Healthier Alternative When Cooking
When you next cook using oils in a pan, try using coconut oil as opposed to olive or vegetable oil. Another method is when baking. Try using coconut oil to grease your baking tray instead of butter, I find it to be a healthier alternative.
Hair Conditioner
An excellent conditioner for those with thick hair. It aids in the growth of your hair and gives your hair that great quality of shine. As well as providing essential proteins needed to treat damaged hair and keep it nourished. Coconut oil is ideal for people who suffer from dandruff. It helps to replenish the natural oils in your hair and on your scalp that you may lose after washing.
Natural Moisturizer
Regarding natural skin care, coconut oil is my choice. Not only does it act as a protection for your skin from the sun, but also as a natural moisturizer. It is an essential massage oil, which can be used for all types of skin to prevent dryness and flaking. It also aids in treating various skin diseases such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis as well as an after sun moisturizer to help cool down your skin after being in the sun. Personally, I use it to moisturize my skin after being in the shower as well as to moisturize my skin after shaving.
Boosts Nutritional Value in Smoothies
By adding coconut oil to your morning fruit smoothie, not only does it improve the texture and feel of the smoothie in your mouth, but it also boosts the compounds that fight against cholesterol, while adding healthier fats into your diet.
Energy Booster
It is a fact that coconut oil can be used to boost your energy levels. It contains a unique sort of saturated fat called medium-chain triglycerides or MCT for short, which provides a source of energy for your body.
Nappy Rash
For all you mothers out there whose child suffers from nappy rash, try using coconut oil. It contains antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties that help to promote healing as well as acts as a soothing and moisturizing agent. Apply as much as you need to the affected area as you would with regular nappy rash creams.
http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Great-Ways-How-Coconut-Oil-Can-Benefit-Your-Health&id=9248291
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