By B Borseth
This natural oil is very effective in moisturising the skin. It hydrates and softens which makes it perfect when making your own beauty products, helping to keep your skin healthy at all times.
This oil can also be used when making shampoos and conditioners for your hair. It conditions hair, making it silky and soft. Everyone wants healthy looking hair and this means having hair which is soft to the touch and has a silky appearance. Argan oil is very effective in promoting healthy looking hair.
Another reason you should use argan oil when it comes to your hair is that it is effective is fighting unwelcome frizz, thereby taming your hair and keeping it under control. Thousands of women around the world struggle with frizzy hair, which is completely unmanageable and looks out of control. With this oil, the hair takes on a silky, smooth and seamless appearance.
For skin care, you will find that argan oil contains anti-ageing properties. Everyone is looking for quality anti-ageing moisturisers and creams these days to reduce the signs of ageing. Argan oil gives the skin a youthful appearance while reducing the signs of wrinkles. It is important to remember that wrinkles cannot be removed completely, but with an effective solution, you can reduce their appearance, hiding them from the naked eye and boosting your confidence in the process.
Anyone with dry skin will find that argan oil is beneficial solution to repair their damaged skin. This includes people suffering from psoriasis and eczema. These conditions cause dry and itching skin and in some cases, these can get infected and result in unwelcome sores. With the right solution being used, you can make a great preventative solution that you can use daily to keep the skin moisturised and healthy at all times.
For anyone suffering from acne, you will find that argan oil will soothe and heal your skin. With acne it's not the pimples as much as the redness and swelling that comes along with it while the skin is irritated. This oil will soothe and reduce swelling while helping the acne to heal effectively.
The final reason you really should consider argan oil is to reduce stretch marks. Any woman who is pregnant will be looking for effective topical solutions to use to hide the stretch marks effectively without being harmful to their unborn baby. This is a completely natural and organic oil which you can trust to help you reduce the signs of stretch marks, protecting your skin in the process.
Be aware that when you decide to start using this oil, you want to buy it from a reputable supplier to ensure you are getting the one hundred percent natural and organic argan oil. There are so many offered online, but not all of them are the real deal.
Ideally you should find a supplier who can offer advice and maybe even give you a recipe on how to make your own beauty, hair or skin care product using this oil to ensure its effectiveness and leaves you with the outcome you want to achieve.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Consider-Using-Argan-Oil-in-Your-Beauty-Products&id=9264562
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9264562
Thursday, 24 December 2015
Tuesday, 22 December 2015
5 Things Your Nails Are Trying to Say About Your Health
By Nguyen Kinh Luan
Your nails say a lot about you, such as your favorite polish color or even how meticulous you are with your hygiene. However, they also say a lot about your general health. From signaling that you may be suffering from a respiratory condition to suggesting that you may be suffering from thyroid disease, here are five things your nails can say about your health.
1. Blue Fingernails: Referred to as cyanosis in the medical community, this indicates that there is too little oxygen circulating in your blood. It can also signal that your extremities are not getting enough oxygen. If you massage or warm up your hands and they return to their normal color, this is usually the case. However, if they remain blue, there is an underlying cause. In many cases, this is the result of a respiratory condition, such as emphysema, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). It can also be a sign of Raynaud's Disease, which is due to a vessel abnormality and can be treated.
2. Yellow Nails: In most cases, this is the result of a fungal infection that is frequently caused by the overgrowth of the organism Candida albicans. In this situation, you may also notice pain and swelling. Dermatophytesare a second type of fungus that often inhabits the nails and often causes them to become thick and split. In rare cases, this is caused by "yellow nail syndrome", a serious medical condition that indicates the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues. This requires immediate medical attention.
3. Pitting: Caused by new nail cells developing unevenly superficially in the matrix, this term refers to small dents that form on the nail's surface. Up to 50 percent of people suffering from psoriasis, a skin condition that results in flaky, red skin, develop pitting during their lifetime. In some cases, it may be indicative of a systemic disease, a condition that affects multiple tissues and organs in the body, such as sarcoidosis.
4. Horizontal rippling: Often referred to as Beau's lines, this is the result of disrupted cell growth in the matrix below the surface and is often a sign of a nutritional deficiency and/ or serious illness. For example, it can indicate uncontrolled diabetes, a zinc deficiency, peripheral vascular disease, pneumonia, scarlet fever, measles, mumps, or any other illness that causes an extremely high fever.
5. Brown or Copper Fingernails: Although it is rare, this can be a sign of subungual melanoma, a potentially deadly form of cancer that originates in the nail's matrix. More often it is a sign of a nutritional deficiency, especially vitamin B12, iron, or zinc. However, it can also simply be a reminder that you are getting older.
If you have an upcoming doctor's visit, be sure to take off any polish ahead of time so that he or she can get a good look at your naked nails. You may find out that they are trying to tell you, and your physician, something important about your health.
http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Things-Your-Nails-Are-Trying-to-Say-About-Your-Health&id=9258115
Your nails say a lot about you, such as your favorite polish color or even how meticulous you are with your hygiene. However, they also say a lot about your general health. From signaling that you may be suffering from a respiratory condition to suggesting that you may be suffering from thyroid disease, here are five things your nails can say about your health.
1. Blue Fingernails: Referred to as cyanosis in the medical community, this indicates that there is too little oxygen circulating in your blood. It can also signal that your extremities are not getting enough oxygen. If you massage or warm up your hands and they return to their normal color, this is usually the case. However, if they remain blue, there is an underlying cause. In many cases, this is the result of a respiratory condition, such as emphysema, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). It can also be a sign of Raynaud's Disease, which is due to a vessel abnormality and can be treated.
2. Yellow Nails: In most cases, this is the result of a fungal infection that is frequently caused by the overgrowth of the organism Candida albicans. In this situation, you may also notice pain and swelling. Dermatophytesare a second type of fungus that often inhabits the nails and often causes them to become thick and split. In rare cases, this is caused by "yellow nail syndrome", a serious medical condition that indicates the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues. This requires immediate medical attention.
3. Pitting: Caused by new nail cells developing unevenly superficially in the matrix, this term refers to small dents that form on the nail's surface. Up to 50 percent of people suffering from psoriasis, a skin condition that results in flaky, red skin, develop pitting during their lifetime. In some cases, it may be indicative of a systemic disease, a condition that affects multiple tissues and organs in the body, such as sarcoidosis.
4. Horizontal rippling: Often referred to as Beau's lines, this is the result of disrupted cell growth in the matrix below the surface and is often a sign of a nutritional deficiency and/ or serious illness. For example, it can indicate uncontrolled diabetes, a zinc deficiency, peripheral vascular disease, pneumonia, scarlet fever, measles, mumps, or any other illness that causes an extremely high fever.
5. Brown or Copper Fingernails: Although it is rare, this can be a sign of subungual melanoma, a potentially deadly form of cancer that originates in the nail's matrix. More often it is a sign of a nutritional deficiency, especially vitamin B12, iron, or zinc. However, it can also simply be a reminder that you are getting older.
If you have an upcoming doctor's visit, be sure to take off any polish ahead of time so that he or she can get a good look at your naked nails. You may find out that they are trying to tell you, and your physician, something important about your health.
http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Things-Your-Nails-Are-Trying-to-Say-About-Your-Health&id=9258115
Saturday, 12 December 2015
What Are the Triggers of Psoriasis?
By Christopher Langley
There are many different skin conditions that can cause significant discomfort for people, ranging from eczema to acne. One of the most common ones, which many individuals all around the world suffer with, is psoriasis; this has several major visible symptoms.
Some of these symptoms include dry and cracked skin, red patches of skin with a scale like appearance, and even small scaly spots on the surface of the skin. This can occur anywhere on the body, but there are also specific areas that can suffer in particular from this condition. One of these areas is the scalp, where psoriasis results in red, itchy areas and dry, flaky skin.
This condition generally come sin bouts, and will flare up and then die back down again. Periods of remission may be extended or they may be short, depending on the person and how severe the condition is for them.
With that said, there are several triggers which can cause this particular illness to flare up. Although no one knows the true cause of this skin condition, medical scientists have at least been able to identify triggers along with several different types of medical and natural remedy for psoriasis, both of which can relieve the symptoms and any associated discomfort.
One of the main triggers for this condition is stress, which is implicated in a variety of common human illnesses. For those suffering with psoriasis, it is therefore strongly advised to take measures to manage stress more effectively, as this can reduce the severity of flare ups and even avoid them altogether to some extent.
There are also some other lifestyle factors which are considered to make the illness worse. Notably, these include smoking and drinking a large quantity of alcohol. As with stress, these two factors are generally implicated in a lot of human illnesses, so stopping smoking and reducing intake of alcohol can only be beneficial for not only easing psoriasis, but also improving general well being.
In addition to these more controllable factors, environmental factors also play a role in triggering psoriasis. One of these is cold weather, which can dry out and irritate the skin and therefore cause a flare up. Taking measures to combat this in advance of the change of the seasons is therefore advised.
Infection sand injury to the skin can also cause flare ups of the condition. A simple infection such as a throat infection can be sufficient to trigger a bout of the illness, as can a simple insect bite or sunburn. Additional care needs to be taken where possible to stay in general good health and protect the skin from injury.
Some medications may also worsen the condition, so if you are taking any medicine - whether prescribed or over the counter- it is best to consult with your doctor about the effect that it may be having on your illness.
It is worth noting that different people will have different triggers when it comes to their psoriasis flaring up. The best way to avoid these triggers is to become aware of them and then taking precautions to combat them. You may find a medicinal or natural remedy for psoriasis may help, as well as regular actions to sooth your skin.
These can include using a moisturizing cream daily to keep your skin nourished, exposing your skin to small amounts of sunlight on a regular basis - taking care not to burn, of course - or taking baths on a daily basis using natural bath salts to sooth and nourish the skin.
Before you take any prescribed or natural remedy for psoriasis, however, it is best to check with your dermatologist for their professional opinion. A medical professional will best be able to advise on
http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Are-the-Triggers-of-Psoriasis?&id=9242834
There are many different skin conditions that can cause significant discomfort for people, ranging from eczema to acne. One of the most common ones, which many individuals all around the world suffer with, is psoriasis; this has several major visible symptoms.
Some of these symptoms include dry and cracked skin, red patches of skin with a scale like appearance, and even small scaly spots on the surface of the skin. This can occur anywhere on the body, but there are also specific areas that can suffer in particular from this condition. One of these areas is the scalp, where psoriasis results in red, itchy areas and dry, flaky skin.
This condition generally come sin bouts, and will flare up and then die back down again. Periods of remission may be extended or they may be short, depending on the person and how severe the condition is for them.
With that said, there are several triggers which can cause this particular illness to flare up. Although no one knows the true cause of this skin condition, medical scientists have at least been able to identify triggers along with several different types of medical and natural remedy for psoriasis, both of which can relieve the symptoms and any associated discomfort.
One of the main triggers for this condition is stress, which is implicated in a variety of common human illnesses. For those suffering with psoriasis, it is therefore strongly advised to take measures to manage stress more effectively, as this can reduce the severity of flare ups and even avoid them altogether to some extent.
There are also some other lifestyle factors which are considered to make the illness worse. Notably, these include smoking and drinking a large quantity of alcohol. As with stress, these two factors are generally implicated in a lot of human illnesses, so stopping smoking and reducing intake of alcohol can only be beneficial for not only easing psoriasis, but also improving general well being.
In addition to these more controllable factors, environmental factors also play a role in triggering psoriasis. One of these is cold weather, which can dry out and irritate the skin and therefore cause a flare up. Taking measures to combat this in advance of the change of the seasons is therefore advised.
Infection sand injury to the skin can also cause flare ups of the condition. A simple infection such as a throat infection can be sufficient to trigger a bout of the illness, as can a simple insect bite or sunburn. Additional care needs to be taken where possible to stay in general good health and protect the skin from injury.
Some medications may also worsen the condition, so if you are taking any medicine - whether prescribed or over the counter- it is best to consult with your doctor about the effect that it may be having on your illness.
It is worth noting that different people will have different triggers when it comes to their psoriasis flaring up. The best way to avoid these triggers is to become aware of them and then taking precautions to combat them. You may find a medicinal or natural remedy for psoriasis may help, as well as regular actions to sooth your skin.
These can include using a moisturizing cream daily to keep your skin nourished, exposing your skin to small amounts of sunlight on a regular basis - taking care not to burn, of course - or taking baths on a daily basis using natural bath salts to sooth and nourish the skin.
Before you take any prescribed or natural remedy for psoriasis, however, it is best to check with your dermatologist for their professional opinion. A medical professional will best be able to advise on
the best treatment for you.
Matol Km® is a natural combination of minerals and extracts of 13 unique botanical that fills the vital dietary gaps in the modern diet. Matol Km is also a reliable source of recommended daily minerals, in particular potassium, iron, and iodine. Potassium is one of the minerals vital to human cells' permeability and their inherent ability to absorb nutrients from food. Available in a drink or capsules, Km has been changing people's lives for nearly a century. Although not a cure, people with conditions such as Lupus and psoriasis have noted significant relief by using this natural remedy.
http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Are-the-Triggers-of-Psoriasis?&id=9242834
Wednesday, 2 December 2015
Strengthen Your Immune System With Echinacea
By Michele Kadison
Now that winter is almost upon us, it's time to double up on protective care. Here's a little information on one of my favorite herbs for keeping your immune system strong.
A BIT OF HISTORY
Before the introduction of allopathic antibiotics, the herb Echinacea was what healers used to boost the immune system, without ever producing a single side effect. This is a lot more than we can say for many of the synthetic alternatives that conventional doctors proscribe today. Native Americans used the plant for its powerful medicinal properties that help avert and cure a myriad of problems, followed by the early Americans and then the Europeans, who learned even more about Echinacea's ability to strengthen the immune system. In bygone days when syphilis, scarlet fever, diphtheria, malaria, and blood poisoning were prevalent, Echinacea was the medicine of choice, as it helped prevent infection while strengthening and arming the body's army of disease-fighting white blood cells.
THE PLANT
Echinacea is a member of the daisy family and known as "Asteraceae," or purple coneflower for its brilliant petals that stand out when in bloom. There are two types of Echinacea: E. Angustifolia, which grows best in colder climates and at a high elevation, and E. Purpurea, which can be grown at a lower elevation in milder climes. Both types can be grown from seeds and then kept in partial shade rather than full sunlight. If you grow Echinacea in your outdoor garden, you will marvel at the proliferation of butterflies it attracts!
ECHINACEA'S MANY ATTRIBUTES
Most of the scientific research done on Echinacea has been in Germany where research shows how it helps to stimulate cells that fight infection. Where allopathic vaccinations generally target a specific problem and conventional antibiotics often weaken the body's natural ability to heal itself, Echinacea strengthens the immune system with no adverse effects. With a strong immune system, the body is better able to fight viruses, bacteria, and abnormal cells on its own. Echinacea does this by activating white blood cells and lymphocytes so that they can do their job of attacking and overcoming invading organisms that cause illness and disease.
A SHORT LIST OF ECHINACEA'S ATTRIBUTES:
Increases the number of immune system cells necessary for health
Works as a mild antibiotic, anti-fungal, and anti-viral
Prevents bacteria from entering healthy cells
Stimulates new tissue growth for wound healing
Helps with skin regeneration
Reduces inflammation in skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema
Reduces inflammation in cases of arthritis
Increases resistance to infections
Helps heal candida, herpes, urinary tract, and other similar infections
Helps reduce inflamed lymph glands
Helps reduce symptoms of sore throat
Helps reduce upper respiratory problems in general
Helpful in averting and shortening the duration of the common cold
In Europe Echinacea is so respected that it is sometimes used as IV supplement for some forms of cancer and is often injected for the treatment of urinary tract infections. In the United States, where pharmaceutical drugs are the mainstream, it takes good personal research to understand the importance and power of Echinacea as an alternative or supplement.
STUDIES
The University of Maryland Medical Center confirms that many laboratory studies show that Echinacea contains active substances that enhance the immune system. Because of this, the plant has received positive feedback in a more conservative setting for relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and helping to boost anti-oxidant and hormonal strength.
In terms of the common cold, 14 clinical trials throughout the United States show that the use of Echinacea reduces the odds of developing a cold by 58% and reduces the duration of a cold by 1 to 4 days.
USING ECHINACEA
I have used Echinacea throughout the years whenever I feel a cold coming on. As soon as the first symptom rears its head, I put about 30 drops in a glass of room temperature water and drink this twice a day to keep my system strong. It is best to use Echinacea on a short-term basis, as this way you get the most from its power. I use it until my symptoms go away, or as a preventative, for two to three weeks with a break of a few weeks.
You can find Echinacea in many forms: as a tincture (alcohol or glycerine based), liquid extract, tea, capsule, as well as in creams and gels for topical use. Make sure you follow directions in terms of dosage. Then combine your Echinacea protocol with accompanying doses of Body Activation fitness, and you'll be thriving all year long!
WORDS TO THE WISE
Echinacea is not a substitute for critical medical cases. Make sure you consult your healthcare provider before embarking on a protocol. Though there is no known toxicity, it is advised not to use the herb in cases of progressive systemic and autoimmune diseases such as TB, lupus, and connective tissue disorders.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Strengthen-Your-Immune-System-With-Echinacea&id=9227648
Now that winter is almost upon us, it's time to double up on protective care. Here's a little information on one of my favorite herbs for keeping your immune system strong.
A BIT OF HISTORY
Before the introduction of allopathic antibiotics, the herb Echinacea was what healers used to boost the immune system, without ever producing a single side effect. This is a lot more than we can say for many of the synthetic alternatives that conventional doctors proscribe today. Native Americans used the plant for its powerful medicinal properties that help avert and cure a myriad of problems, followed by the early Americans and then the Europeans, who learned even more about Echinacea's ability to strengthen the immune system. In bygone days when syphilis, scarlet fever, diphtheria, malaria, and blood poisoning were prevalent, Echinacea was the medicine of choice, as it helped prevent infection while strengthening and arming the body's army of disease-fighting white blood cells.
THE PLANT
Echinacea is a member of the daisy family and known as "Asteraceae," or purple coneflower for its brilliant petals that stand out when in bloom. There are two types of Echinacea: E. Angustifolia, which grows best in colder climates and at a high elevation, and E. Purpurea, which can be grown at a lower elevation in milder climes. Both types can be grown from seeds and then kept in partial shade rather than full sunlight. If you grow Echinacea in your outdoor garden, you will marvel at the proliferation of butterflies it attracts!
ECHINACEA'S MANY ATTRIBUTES
Most of the scientific research done on Echinacea has been in Germany where research shows how it helps to stimulate cells that fight infection. Where allopathic vaccinations generally target a specific problem and conventional antibiotics often weaken the body's natural ability to heal itself, Echinacea strengthens the immune system with no adverse effects. With a strong immune system, the body is better able to fight viruses, bacteria, and abnormal cells on its own. Echinacea does this by activating white blood cells and lymphocytes so that they can do their job of attacking and overcoming invading organisms that cause illness and disease.
A SHORT LIST OF ECHINACEA'S ATTRIBUTES:
Increases the number of immune system cells necessary for health
Works as a mild antibiotic, anti-fungal, and anti-viral
Prevents bacteria from entering healthy cells
Stimulates new tissue growth for wound healing
Helps with skin regeneration
Reduces inflammation in skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema
Reduces inflammation in cases of arthritis
Increases resistance to infections
Helps heal candida, herpes, urinary tract, and other similar infections
Helps reduce inflamed lymph glands
Helps reduce symptoms of sore throat
Helps reduce upper respiratory problems in general
Helpful in averting and shortening the duration of the common cold
In Europe Echinacea is so respected that it is sometimes used as IV supplement for some forms of cancer and is often injected for the treatment of urinary tract infections. In the United States, where pharmaceutical drugs are the mainstream, it takes good personal research to understand the importance and power of Echinacea as an alternative or supplement.
STUDIES
The University of Maryland Medical Center confirms that many laboratory studies show that Echinacea contains active substances that enhance the immune system. Because of this, the plant has received positive feedback in a more conservative setting for relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and helping to boost anti-oxidant and hormonal strength.
In terms of the common cold, 14 clinical trials throughout the United States show that the use of Echinacea reduces the odds of developing a cold by 58% and reduces the duration of a cold by 1 to 4 days.
USING ECHINACEA
I have used Echinacea throughout the years whenever I feel a cold coming on. As soon as the first symptom rears its head, I put about 30 drops in a glass of room temperature water and drink this twice a day to keep my system strong. It is best to use Echinacea on a short-term basis, as this way you get the most from its power. I use it until my symptoms go away, or as a preventative, for two to three weeks with a break of a few weeks.
You can find Echinacea in many forms: as a tincture (alcohol or glycerine based), liquid extract, tea, capsule, as well as in creams and gels for topical use. Make sure you follow directions in terms of dosage. Then combine your Echinacea protocol with accompanying doses of Body Activation fitness, and you'll be thriving all year long!
WORDS TO THE WISE
Echinacea is not a substitute for critical medical cases. Make sure you consult your healthcare provider before embarking on a protocol. Though there is no known toxicity, it is advised not to use the herb in cases of progressive systemic and autoimmune diseases such as TB, lupus, and connective tissue disorders.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Strengthen-Your-Immune-System-With-Echinacea&id=9227648
Thursday, 19 November 2015
Psoriasis and the Stigma - Living With Psoriasis
By Danielle W Lee
Psoriasis is a chronic immune system disease that adversely affects the skin. It occurs when the immune system over-reacts and causes skin cells to grow at an abnormally fast rate. It is characterized by scaly patches that are red and silver.
Psoriasis is more common in people living in the northern hemisphere. It is also more prevalent among Caucasians than in other races such as Africans and Asians. Psoriasis is highly hereditary in nature. According to research, 30% of people with psoriasis also have family members who suffer from the disease. If both parents suffer from psoriasis, their children will have a 50% chance of inheriting the disease. Drugs, illness, and stress are the most common causes of the disease.
Because of the visible and chronic nature of psoriasis, there is much stigma surrounding it. Most people who do not have psoriasis themselves are uneducated about the condition. Thus, a psoriasis sufferer may be met with fear or disgust should he bare his skin in public. Apart from that, many also mistakenly believe that psoriasis is a contagious disease, which can make social situations awkward. Psoriasis sufferers are often banned from public pools or refused service at hair salons. They must deal with rude comments and handle discrimination and rejection on a daily basis. This can result in low self-esteem and a poor self-image.
Although over 7.5 million people suffer from psoriasis in the United States, most people who have it elect to hide their skin in order to avoid facing the painful reactions of others. Often, hiding psoriasis is much easier than explaining the condition.
Psoriasis and Social Situations
Public ignorance of psoriasis can be very damaging to psoriasis sufferers. Psoriasis patients mistakenly believe they are abnormal because of their skin's appearance and they may also have difficulty socializing with others. As a result, they may choose to spend their time alone or slowly withdraw from society, preferring to protect themselves from embarrassing social situations. Through this, they feel comfortable and at ease knowing that they won't be ridiculed by anyone. Eventually, being alone becomes their comfort zone, and many psoriasis sufferers cite a decline in their social life after the onset of their disease.
Public Awareness of Psoriasis
Despite what it looks like, psoriasis is not a contagious skin disease. Raising public awareness about psoriasis will help improve the quality of life that psoriasis patients currently have. An effort must be made to educate the public about the disease and expose the truth about psoriasis. Patients should not be ashamed of their condition or feel that they must hide psoriasis underneath long pants and turtlenecks all year around.
As a victim of psoriasis, you can do your part to eradicate ignorance about the affliction. When meeting someone new for the first time, calmly explain your condition and emphasize that it is not contagious but simply the result of an immune system malfunction. Enlightening people about psoriasis is one of the most helpful ways to change their views about the disease. Often, it can be a conversation starter and spare you from discrimination as well. Baring psoriasis to the public takes courage but it can inspire others by example.
If you are suffering from psoriasis, now is the time to come out of your shell. By simply explaining your affliction to the people around you, prejudice and discrimination can be prevented. Dealing with psoriasis is extremely stressful, so you'll need all the support you can get on your road to remission.
Psoriasis is a chronic immune system disease that adversely affects the skin. It occurs when the immune system over-reacts and causes skin cells to grow at an abnormally fast rate. It is characterized by scaly patches that are red and silver.
Psoriasis is more common in people living in the northern hemisphere. It is also more prevalent among Caucasians than in other races such as Africans and Asians. Psoriasis is highly hereditary in nature. According to research, 30% of people with psoriasis also have family members who suffer from the disease. If both parents suffer from psoriasis, their children will have a 50% chance of inheriting the disease. Drugs, illness, and stress are the most common causes of the disease.
Because of the visible and chronic nature of psoriasis, there is much stigma surrounding it. Most people who do not have psoriasis themselves are uneducated about the condition. Thus, a psoriasis sufferer may be met with fear or disgust should he bare his skin in public. Apart from that, many also mistakenly believe that psoriasis is a contagious disease, which can make social situations awkward. Psoriasis sufferers are often banned from public pools or refused service at hair salons. They must deal with rude comments and handle discrimination and rejection on a daily basis. This can result in low self-esteem and a poor self-image.
Although over 7.5 million people suffer from psoriasis in the United States, most people who have it elect to hide their skin in order to avoid facing the painful reactions of others. Often, hiding psoriasis is much easier than explaining the condition.
Psoriasis and Social Situations
Public ignorance of psoriasis can be very damaging to psoriasis sufferers. Psoriasis patients mistakenly believe they are abnormal because of their skin's appearance and they may also have difficulty socializing with others. As a result, they may choose to spend their time alone or slowly withdraw from society, preferring to protect themselves from embarrassing social situations. Through this, they feel comfortable and at ease knowing that they won't be ridiculed by anyone. Eventually, being alone becomes their comfort zone, and many psoriasis sufferers cite a decline in their social life after the onset of their disease.
Public Awareness of Psoriasis
Despite what it looks like, psoriasis is not a contagious skin disease. Raising public awareness about psoriasis will help improve the quality of life that psoriasis patients currently have. An effort must be made to educate the public about the disease and expose the truth about psoriasis. Patients should not be ashamed of their condition or feel that they must hide psoriasis underneath long pants and turtlenecks all year around.
As a victim of psoriasis, you can do your part to eradicate ignorance about the affliction. When meeting someone new for the first time, calmly explain your condition and emphasize that it is not contagious but simply the result of an immune system malfunction. Enlightening people about psoriasis is one of the most helpful ways to change their views about the disease. Often, it can be a conversation starter and spare you from discrimination as well. Baring psoriasis to the public takes courage but it can inspire others by example.
If you are suffering from psoriasis, now is the time to come out of your shell. By simply explaining your affliction to the people around you, prejudice and discrimination can be prevented. Dealing with psoriasis is extremely stressful, so you'll need all the support you can get on your road to remission.
Tuesday, 3 November 2015
Help for Chapped Winter Hands
By Patti Zimmerman
Lack of moisture is the main reason for this. When the season changes into winter, the humidity in the outside air plummets while inside things become drier due to the indoor heating. Compounding this issue is the more frequent washing of our hands we do to avoid catching a cold or the flu. This drains the natural oils in the skin resulting in your hands becoming dehydrated, leaving them to crack, peel and bleed.
Withstanding winter's harsh conditions and how well your hands will tolerate it depends on the strength of your skin barrier. The skin barrier is a mixture a proteins, lipids and oils which protects your skin. People with weak barriers are more susceptible to symptoms of sensitive skin, including itching, inflammation and eczema. Dry, chapped hands in winter are more likely to happen.
The first step to treating dry, parched, scaly hands is to replace the missing moisture that the skin is lacking. Our first thought is to drink more water but unfortunately that is not the answer. Applying a moisturizer directly to the skin keeps water from evaporating and gives the skin a healthy, dewy appearance. Using a moisturizer before your hands show signs of dryness is the best prevention of future problems.
In many cases moisturizer doesn't get applied in a timely basis. Dealing with cracked, dry skin on your fingers can be uncomfortable and may hinder using your hands especially if those cracks bleed. Not only is healing the skin important but also infections that could arise.
I recommend following these tips to heal dry, cracked skin on your hands and fingers.
These tips when followed can help with dry, cracked hands and fingers. If your symptoms persist or become severe contact your doctor or dermatologist. They may prescribe steroids to help heal the skin or uncover an underlying medical condition such as eczema, psoriasis or a fungal infection.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Help-for-Chapped-Winter-Hands&id=9215759
Lack of moisture is the main reason for this. When the season changes into winter, the humidity in the outside air plummets while inside things become drier due to the indoor heating. Compounding this issue is the more frequent washing of our hands we do to avoid catching a cold or the flu. This drains the natural oils in the skin resulting in your hands becoming dehydrated, leaving them to crack, peel and bleed.
Withstanding winter's harsh conditions and how well your hands will tolerate it depends on the strength of your skin barrier. The skin barrier is a mixture a proteins, lipids and oils which protects your skin. People with weak barriers are more susceptible to symptoms of sensitive skin, including itching, inflammation and eczema. Dry, chapped hands in winter are more likely to happen.
The first step to treating dry, parched, scaly hands is to replace the missing moisture that the skin is lacking. Our first thought is to drink more water but unfortunately that is not the answer. Applying a moisturizer directly to the skin keeps water from evaporating and gives the skin a healthy, dewy appearance. Using a moisturizer before your hands show signs of dryness is the best prevention of future problems.
In many cases moisturizer doesn't get applied in a timely basis. Dealing with cracked, dry skin on your fingers can be uncomfortable and may hinder using your hands especially if those cracks bleed. Not only is healing the skin important but also infections that could arise.
I recommend following these tips to heal dry, cracked skin on your hands and fingers.
- Treat deep cracks - if these are deep enough to bleed than treat them just like any open wound. Wash carefully with warm soapy water and dry gently. Apply bandages with an antibacterial ointment to help protect the cracks and keep them from getting infected.
- Use moisturizing cream - use a thick, greasy ointment or cream to maintain and increase the skin's natural internal moisture. This will help dry skin patches and heal cracks. Read product labels as some advertise for use on extra-dry skin but may not heal cracks or protect the hands from damage. Others may contain ingredients like alcohol or chemicals that can actually make matters worse. Find products that contain pure emollients and humectants which hydrate and protect the skin. I suggest these:
- Coconut oil and shea butter - these are both excellent for protecting the skin.
- Lanolin - this is a first-rate product for healing cracks.
- Jojoba oil - this mirrors the skin's natural oils. Can't go wrong with products listing this in their ingredients.
- Petroleum jelly - protects the skin by forming a seal that won't allow moisture to escape.
- Hand washing - though extremely important, understanding the proper technique and things to avoid will help alleviate dry, cracked hands. First, avoid excessive hand washing. Water and harsh soaps with strong chemicals tend to strip the skin of its natural oils leading them to dry and crack. Look for mild soaps or those that contain lotion. Second, water temperature is very important. Using hot water washes away the natural oils and dries out the skin. Warm water is recommended. Third, gently dry your hands by patting dry with a towel. Refrain from drying them roughly with a towel. Last but not least, apply cream immediately after washing your hands. Your skin loses moisture as water evaporates off your skin. Applying a cream or lotion helps retain that moisture.
- Protective cotton gloves - to help protect even further, wear light weight cotton gloves. Apply cream before putting on to help protect your dry, cracked skin from any further irritation. Wearing these at night after applying moisturizer helps keep the ointment on and lessens the chance of a mess while sleeping.
- Humidity - warm air tends to dry out hands. Using a bedroom or whole house humidifier puts water back into the air and decreases the risk of dry, cracked skin.
- Sunscreen - if you plan on being outdoors for extended periods of time apply a good sunscreen. Hands are more susceptible to being exposed to the sun's harmful rays than other parts of the body.
These tips when followed can help with dry, cracked hands and fingers. If your symptoms persist or become severe contact your doctor or dermatologist. They may prescribe steroids to help heal the skin or uncover an underlying medical condition such as eczema, psoriasis or a fungal infection.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Help-for-Chapped-Winter-Hands&id=9215759
Skin Care Is a Complex Issue - Here Are Some Answers to So Many Questions
By Josef Bichler
There are many questions often asked about different skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, these are just the most common ones. Skin conditions are not easy to pinpoint or known exactly what triggers or causes them. For instance, body acne is a common problem and often gets worse in the warmer weather. Many times, acne worsens when the pores of the skin get clogged with oil, sweat and dead skin cells. Most of the time body acne is the result of fluctuating hormones and overactive skin oil production that many lifestyle factors can exacerbate. Other factors that can worsen body acne include clothes that are too tight and not breathable, as well irritation caused by body care products, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners.
How to treat it?
Keep in mind everyone's reactions can vary, but coconut oil works most of the time. Coconut oil is anti bacterial and anti fungal. The oil is also an extremely good moisturizer and gentle on the skin. It helps to fight bacteria and reduces redness. Tea tree oil as well is a very powerful all natural remedy. To apply it, mix a small amount of tea tree oil with one equal amount of water and apply it with a cotton ball to your skin.
Avoid most if not all soaps and the use of other skin lotions unless organic. Lifestyle choices can help by changing to a well balanced fresh whole food diet. Taking a good natural supplement that includes fruits and berries rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Eczema and psoriasis is also a skin condition that is often triggered by wrong foods and different chemicals applied to the skin. What I mean by that is, showering too often and using chemical laden body washes and shampoos. Every time you are lathering your whole body when showering, soaps tends to remove the protective sebum which is full of beneficial fats that your body uses to protect your skin. Yet, most people regularly use hush soaps to wash their entire skin surface and remove this protective covering.
Sunshine will help!
Eczema and psoriasis respond well to moderated sunshine. Most have forgotten that the sun is a gift that we need daily. A big percentage of the western world population is vitamin D deficient because of wrong messages over decades, being told to keep out of the sun. The sun is our best source of vitamin D, which our body needs to function, and to keep good health. The skin will benefit from moderate sunshine. Many people spend most of the time in buildings and get only light from artificial sources.
Become aware of all the hidden dangers!
This is often the onset of things to come, when wrinkles appear and accelerating of skin aging has begun. Become aware of all the hidden dangers of skin creams and lotions. The cosmetic industry is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to toxin laden products. These creams and lotions may give short-term benefits, but they come with the risk of long-term health consequences. Not only creams and lotions can do damage, just using sun-block lotions, which is just as toxic.
Another thing to consider is, your skin damage could as well come from the inside of your body. This is another threat to the health and appearance of your skin which does damage: It's called 'free radicals'. These highly unstable oxygen molecules occur just naturally, but factors such as exposure to toxins and being on an unhealthy diet can increase their level. If free radicals get out of control that can wreak havoc on cells throughout your body, leading to dangerously high levels of inflammation. This will accelerate aging and a multitude of health problems as well as oxidative stress and inflammation.
Although, the good news is that our body has a protective build in mechanism that can use antioxidants to neutralize free radicals. The bad news is that most of us are lacking the antioxidant firepower to get the job done just by making some changes. Change your diet to natural whole foods and leave out some of the bad stuff that can do you damage. Instead use a good natural liquid supplement to help your body regulate any imbalances. It should contain fruits and omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B, zinc and copper.
Avoid most lotions, creams, soaps etc. unless made from natural ingredients and/or organic. Such products are available in fact, a new anti-aging technology through a special cream that does something never seen before in skin care improvement. It can lift and refresh your skin while reducing wrinkles, without injections or costly trips to the doctor, and without pain. Pitted damaged skin is often the aftermath from acne and other skin related problems, which are now totally reversible thanks to naturally derived skin care.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Skin-Care-Is-a-Complex-Issue---Here-Are-Some-Answers-to-So-Many-Questions&id=9215258
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9215258
There are many questions often asked about different skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, these are just the most common ones. Skin conditions are not easy to pinpoint or known exactly what triggers or causes them. For instance, body acne is a common problem and often gets worse in the warmer weather. Many times, acne worsens when the pores of the skin get clogged with oil, sweat and dead skin cells. Most of the time body acne is the result of fluctuating hormones and overactive skin oil production that many lifestyle factors can exacerbate. Other factors that can worsen body acne include clothes that are too tight and not breathable, as well irritation caused by body care products, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners.
How to treat it?
Keep in mind everyone's reactions can vary, but coconut oil works most of the time. Coconut oil is anti bacterial and anti fungal. The oil is also an extremely good moisturizer and gentle on the skin. It helps to fight bacteria and reduces redness. Tea tree oil as well is a very powerful all natural remedy. To apply it, mix a small amount of tea tree oil with one equal amount of water and apply it with a cotton ball to your skin.
Avoid most if not all soaps and the use of other skin lotions unless organic. Lifestyle choices can help by changing to a well balanced fresh whole food diet. Taking a good natural supplement that includes fruits and berries rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Eczema and psoriasis is also a skin condition that is often triggered by wrong foods and different chemicals applied to the skin. What I mean by that is, showering too often and using chemical laden body washes and shampoos. Every time you are lathering your whole body when showering, soaps tends to remove the protective sebum which is full of beneficial fats that your body uses to protect your skin. Yet, most people regularly use hush soaps to wash their entire skin surface and remove this protective covering.
Sunshine will help!
Eczema and psoriasis respond well to moderated sunshine. Most have forgotten that the sun is a gift that we need daily. A big percentage of the western world population is vitamin D deficient because of wrong messages over decades, being told to keep out of the sun. The sun is our best source of vitamin D, which our body needs to function, and to keep good health. The skin will benefit from moderate sunshine. Many people spend most of the time in buildings and get only light from artificial sources.
Become aware of all the hidden dangers!
This is often the onset of things to come, when wrinkles appear and accelerating of skin aging has begun. Become aware of all the hidden dangers of skin creams and lotions. The cosmetic industry is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to toxin laden products. These creams and lotions may give short-term benefits, but they come with the risk of long-term health consequences. Not only creams and lotions can do damage, just using sun-block lotions, which is just as toxic.
Another thing to consider is, your skin damage could as well come from the inside of your body. This is another threat to the health and appearance of your skin which does damage: It's called 'free radicals'. These highly unstable oxygen molecules occur just naturally, but factors such as exposure to toxins and being on an unhealthy diet can increase their level. If free radicals get out of control that can wreak havoc on cells throughout your body, leading to dangerously high levels of inflammation. This will accelerate aging and a multitude of health problems as well as oxidative stress and inflammation.
Although, the good news is that our body has a protective build in mechanism that can use antioxidants to neutralize free radicals. The bad news is that most of us are lacking the antioxidant firepower to get the job done just by making some changes. Change your diet to natural whole foods and leave out some of the bad stuff that can do you damage. Instead use a good natural liquid supplement to help your body regulate any imbalances. It should contain fruits and omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B, zinc and copper.
Avoid most lotions, creams, soaps etc. unless made from natural ingredients and/or organic. Such products are available in fact, a new anti-aging technology through a special cream that does something never seen before in skin care improvement. It can lift and refresh your skin while reducing wrinkles, without injections or costly trips to the doctor, and without pain. Pitted damaged skin is often the aftermath from acne and other skin related problems, which are now totally reversible thanks to naturally derived skin care.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Skin-Care-Is-a-Complex-Issue---Here-Are-Some-Answers-to-So-Many-Questions&id=9215258
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9215258
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