Avocado Oil for Skin Care
The benefits of cold pressed and pure unrefined avocado oil for skin care are perhaps not as well known as one would think. The team at Fushi Wellbeing really believe in the power of natural cold pressed oils for skin. We say forget spending hundreds on high end creams and potions and look towards nature, these oils hold the secret to youthful skin and cost so little too. Natural oils have the added benefits of the nutrients and healing properties they provide. One such natural oil is derived from the avocado, and it is exceptional.

Avocado oil skin benefits:


Age spots & and dry damaged skin

Avocado oil contains sterolins which have been known to reduce the appearance of age spot and to provide relief for sun damaged skin. Massaging the oil into dry skin areas and on age spots has been known to help lighten and reduce their appearance.

Collagen production

There are some studies that show that Avocado oil At least may help increase the levels of collagen in the skin. Collagen is one of the most essential proteins required by the skin as it provides structure and elasticity, which helps fight the formation of wrinkles in particular.

Rich in vitamins and minerals

It contains essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins A, D, E and B6, magnesium, copper, iron, amino acids and folic acid, all of which is extremely essential for hair growth and nourishment. It is also a rich source of Lecithin which gives it good penetrative qualities. It is also known to have natural sunscreen properties that can protect the hair and scalp from the damage caused by the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun.

Avocado oil and dry skin

Avocado oil is perfect for use on dry skin. Rich in sterolins, it helps to soften the skin and to deeply moisturise it. It has also been shown to be beneficial for extreme dryness and itching as well as for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. This is a wonderfully beneficial oil for the skin and helps keep the winkles at bay.


Get more information on Hair Care Products , Hair Loss Vitamins also see more oils like Hemp seed oil , Avocado Oil camellia oil, Coconut oil, for beautiful hair at www.fushi.co.uk
Body Scrub: The Best way to exfoliate the Body
Exfoliation is a way of sloughing and removing the dead cells from the body surface. With the help of this process, it is possible to get rid of excess oil from the epidermis. There are a number of ways to exfoliate the body but application of body scrubs is certainly the most effective. The type and concentration of the scrub varies depending on the part of the body it is applied. For instance, the body scrub used for the face should have a soft and gentle impact where as those meant for feet should be hard, in order to remove the dirt easily.

Choosing the right Body Scrub
Before choosing the body scrub for exfoliation, it is important to consider the individual skin type. There are specific body scrubs meant for oily skin, dry skin as well as to control wrinkle and acne problems. Scrubs containing olive oil, almond help in moisturizing the skin, deal with the problems of the dry skin. People with oily skin can opt for scrubs containing acidic solutions in the form of apricot, papaya and pineapple extracts. Oatmeal scrub is the best option for sensitive skin.

To look glamorous and to adopt a celebrity lifestyle we often choose body scrubs endorsed by famous celebrities. However, it is essential to check the composition of the body scrub before using it because some of them contain chemicals that can have an adverse effect on the skin. If anyone suffering from acne applies scrubs containing chemicals, it can cause a lot of damage to the skin. Chemical scrubs are very effective in curing pimples and acne within a short time, as they are rich in salicylic acid. But in the long run it can have a negative impact on the skin. 

Benefits of Body Scrub

·    It helps to peel off the dead skin from the surface of the skin
·    It open the pores and allows the skin to breathe
·    Applying body scrub can help in removing pre-cancerous growths on the face
·    It is the most effective way to tighten the skin
·    It helps in polishing the skin as well as make it smooth and soft

It is recommended to use body scrub at least once or twice a week. A body scrub is the most beneficial home beauty therapy as it is easy to use. Moisten the area before applying the scrub in gentle circular strokes for few minutes. Choose the right body scrub suitable for the skin to retain the natural look and feel of the skin for longer period of time.



This article is written by Secrets of the Island.
If you want to write for ‘HealthTips’, please check out our posting guidelines.

skin care
The face is one of the most vulnerable parts of the body. Whether you use makeup or not, the skin  is still sweating and therefore needs to be cleaned once a day.

Make the ten minutes before bedtime a moment of "mini-spa" time, where you can both unwind and give your skin a thorough washing.

● Soak the skin with little water. Apply cleansing cream or oil on your hands and massage into face and neck.

● Rinse off with a sponge or a washcloth and wash your face a few times.

● 1-2 times a month, you can exfoliate the skin to peel off dead skin cells. If you are using manufactured peeling, then use a little vegetable oil before in order to protect the skin. You can also make your own scrub by mixing olive oil and sugar. Do not rub, light circular motion allows the grains do the job.

● Sometimes the skin needs extra care and then a face mask would help. Remember to add the mask to damp skin.


How to do an oatmeal Mask
You need:
15 ml of liquid honey
1 egg yolk
approximately 60 ml of fine oatmeal

Make your mask just before use. Mix the honey and the egg yolk. Stir in oatmeal to make a soft cream.
Apply the cream to your face, avoiding the eye and lip area. Let the mask on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm (tepid) water and pat your face dry.


Stay tuned for more skin care tips! 


skin care
This is a list of 26 different substances in perfumes that may cause allergy. These substances are not banned and are widely used in the cosmetic industry. Here is a list of these substances:

  • Alpha Isomethyl ionone
  • Amyl Cinnamal
  • Amylcinnamyl Alcohol
  • Anise Alcohol
  • Benzyl Alcohol
  • Benzyl benzoate
  • Benzyl Cinnamate
  • Benzyl Salicylate
  • Butylphenyl Methylpropional
  • Cinnamal
  • Cinnamyl Alcohol
  • Citral
  • Citronellol
  • Coumarin
  • eugenol
  • Evernia prunastri (Oakmoss) Extract
  • Evernia Furfuracea (Tree Moss) Extract
  • Farnesol
  • Geraniol
  • Hexyl Cinnamal
  • Hydroxycitronellal
  • Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde
  • Isoeugenol
  • Limonene
  • Linalool
  • Methyl 2-Octynoate

Some of these may found on the label, so be aware!
fresh skin
The skin is our largest organ and is affected by both external and internal factors. Get the best tips on how to keep the skin fresh and prevent premature aging. 

4 step to healthier skin!  
1. Stress less
2. Exercise regularly  
3. Sleep well  
4. Avoid alcohol 

The best foods for your skin!
1. Blueberries and other dark berries contain anthocyanins, which together with vitamin C promotes the growth of collagen.  
2. Green tea contains lots of antioxidants and catechins that inhibit collagen breakdown. It also has a good effect against cancer. 
3. Strawberries and blackberries contain ellagic acid, which protects the skin against UV light.  
4. Tomatoes and watermelon have lycopene which helps protect the skin against UV light.  
5. 70-percent dark chocolate contains lots of antioxidants and may reduce the amount of harmful free acid radicals. 
6. Oily fish is rich in omega-3 fat that binds protein.  
7. Dried apricots are packed with vitamin A, which renews the cells.  
8. Sunflower seeds, olive oil and avocados are full of beneficial vitamin E to keep the skin moist and prevent dryness.

P.s. 
Are you a vegetarian?
Make sure to get enough protein! Eat plenty of beans, lentils and high quality almonds. If you choose milk and eggs, the latter has a perfect composition of protein.  
Tip! When you make an omelet, mix in egg whites and you will get the extra proteins.
skin-careStretch marks occur due to rapid stretching of the skin. In fact, it is also related to the weight gain or rapid growth. Furthermore, people with dry skin are also more prone to stretch marks. If you are one of those people who are suffering due to the adverse effects of stretch marks then no worries, celtrixa stretch mark lotion can assist you in taking excellence care of your skin. Without any harm or irritations celtrixa lotion can successfully reduce stretch marks.

Moreover, it is really an exceptional moisturizing skin cream that can assist you in getting rid of those ugly stretch marks. In addition, it also helps in the collagen formation. Collagen aids in the development of new and clear skin. Its natural formula effectively contributes to the development of flawless and smooth skin. Many people and even the celebrities are opting for celtrixa stretch mark lotion for getting the Hollywood look. More importantly, you do not have to consult the specialists to know about its applications. You just have to follow the simple directions to try celtrixa stretch mark lotion.

Experts say that celtrixa helps in healthy growth and skin repair. This lotion is specially developed by skin experts. Many females and even males are opting for this product. Furthermore, it actually works and can effectively renew your skin. More importantly, it can be the best alternative to the strong or intense stretch mark therapy. The fastest and easiest means to get free of all age spots and stretch marks is to try celtrixa stretch mark lotion. This lotion is particularly developed to perceptibly reduce the ugly appearances of color, depression and depth of stretch marks. Experts say that the studies on the key element in this lotion, (regestril) show wonderful results. During the 90 day study, around ninety percent participants saw noteworthy improvement in length, width and color of the stretch marks.

In addition, it also assists to defend against stretch marks development in future by boosting and moisturizing skins elasticity. Dermaplex-12 complex is one of the most effective ingredients that are used in this cream. In short, it is the best combination of natural elements like minerals and vitamins thus making this lotion more effective and effectual.


This article is written by Paul Wyre at Celtrixalotion.
If you want to write for ‘HealthTips’, please check out our posting guidelines.

Unwanted hair growth and its removal is one of the most groan-inducing topics in personal grooming. It can be tedious, time-consuming, and even painful. Perhaps you’ve wished it would just go away all by itself and that you’d never have to deal with it again. Instead, hair just keeps getting longer and more demanding every day. Women may not need to remove hair daily, but they’re just as involved,  if not more so, in hair removal as men. People want and expect hair growth in some areas of the body, and remove it from others. Most of us want hair on our scalps. We expect men to be rugged and have facial hair that they shave. Many of us find a scruffy morning face to be masculine and sexy. And yet, we usually feel differently about a woman with hairy underarms or hairy legs.

The Mystery of Hair
Even if we think that all the hair follicles in a certain area of the body have been destroyed by electrolysis or laser hair removal, new hair can still grow. Sometimes the new hair sprouts from hair follicles that were previously dormant. Hormone production plays a large role in where, how, and how much hair grows. While we often wish for it, we’ve yet to discover a method of permanently removing hair, in large part because we don’t completely understand it. Certain hair-removal treatments can aid in this, but can’t totally eradicate hair growth. For example, waxing diminishes the quantity and thickness of hairs, but even when you’ve been waxing consistently for more than 20 years, hair still grows anew and needs to be removed. Unless we come to a fuller scientific understanding of hair in the future, you’ll just have to accept the fact that you’ll regularly spend time removing it from your body. The good news is that there are various methods for doing so, and you should be able to find one that works best for you.

Shaving
The most common form of hair removal is shaving. Most men do it daily; women usually two or three times a week. Getting a good shave isn’t easy, but by using the right equipment, the right preparation, and the right techniques, you can get a close, smooth shave every time.
Men shave their faces; women shave their underarms, legs, and sometimes their bikini
line. But beyond the location, the differences end. The guidelines for shaving are the
same for men and for women.

Stay tuned for the next parts, were we will explore the many methods for removing hair, make shaving easier and more effective, tell about products that can slow hair growth and tell about hair-removal alternatives!!
dehydratedBegging the Dehydration
After you have made the lifestyle and environmental changes suggested, it’s time to go to work on your skin. Follow these suggestions:
  • Correcting dehydrated skin begins with faithfully completing your daily skin care ritual. Be sure to cleanse, tone, and moisturize twice a day, morning and evening.
  • Next, exfoliate regularly and gently. You need to remove the buildup of dry skin cells and keratinization from your skin. Use gentle AHAs to dissolve dead skin cell buildup. Improve your skin’s natural moisturizing factor with lactic acid, urea, squalene, glycerine, or urea treatments.
  • For a special skin treatment, apply a hydrating mask that stays moist on the skin. Be sure your mask isn’t intended to actually dry while on the skin.
  • When outdoors, use moisturizer and sunscreen that prevent skin moisture loss.
  • Choose a foundation that seals in moisture, such as one that contains silicone, silica, or glyconucleopeptides. Take essential fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil capsules or flax seed oil, every day. Take about 10 capsules or 2 tablespoons. They will make your skin soft and supple. Eat 5 to 10 servings of vegetables and fruits daily, or at least 2 with each meal.
  • Keep your electrolytes in balance. Electrolytes help regulate the body’s hydration levels. Avoid Gatorade, because it’s full of sugars and artificial ingredients. Instead, use Emergen-C packets. Mix one in water when you feel dehydrated.
Salon Hydration
A visit to the skin care salon can prove beneficial to correcting dehydration. Ask for a hydrating facial. You’ll get a hydrating mask that contains humectants, vitamins, essential fatty acids, and perhaps collagen. The mask doesn’t dry on the face but stays moist and is removed with water. The skin care technician may use steam to add moisture topically, and then apply a healthy oil on top of a moisturizer. The process is relaxing, but it’s doing more than making you feel good. Your skin could look better immediately. With proper at-home maintenance, your skin can  stay moist, plump, and radiant.
 
The second part in the dehydrated-skin-series continues with the truth about the right products. You should first check to make sure that you are using products that harmonize best with your skin type. If you feel they’re too drying or you experience flaking, check with the sales consultant or skin technician. They may ask you to make modifications to your ritual or suggest making product changes. For, example, you may want to switch from a gel to a lotion cleanser. Here are things that you should know:
  • If your skin feels tight at midday, consider switching your foundation or powder to one with more moisture and less oil-absorption.
  • Too many salon treatments are simply too much of a good thing. Back off on the frequency. Every six weeks is often enough, and you may want to reduce visits to the salon for peels even further. Talk with your aesthetician to evaluate if your skin dryness is caused by the frequency of peels, your skin care products, or another factor all together. Medications. Many kinds of medication can cause dehydration. Find ways to get off the medication. If this isn’t possible, be sure to take care of the other causes listed here and properly follow all the steps of your daily cleansing routine, and your skin should respond well.
  • Even the common cold or flu can dehydrate your skin. If you’ve been through a more challenging illness, such as cancer, the chemotherapy or radiation treatments can dehydrate your skin. Maintain your daily skin care ritual even when you’re under the weather.
  • Pollution seems to be just about everywhere these days but pollution can dehydrate your skin. To remedy, avoid the other triggers in this list, maintain your daily skin care ritual, and exfoliate regularly.
  • Apply moisturizer before your flight. Transfer some toner that contains a humectant into a spray bottle and spritz your face during the flight. You can also use purified water for your spritz. (Aim carefully. The person next to you may not want an unexpected spritz!) Make sure that your toner contains humectants and doesn’t contain any alcohol.
  • Alcohol is a diuretic and draws fluids from the body, lowering the body’s water content. When you’re hung over after drinking, it’s because your body was dehydrated by alcohol. If you have dehydrated skin, it’s best to avoid alcoholic beverages.
  • Smoking dries out the body both internally and externally. This affects both smokers and people subjected to second-hand smoke. The only solution is to stop smoking.
  • Both regular and diet sodas contain sodium and are acidic. Drinking these results in dehydrated skin. Avoid sodas and increase your intake of purified water. Carbonated water contains dissolved carbon dioxide, which is highly acidic, so avoid other bubbly drinks as well. 
  • Do whatever it takes to get a good night’s sleep. Go to bed earlier to ensure a full night’s rest, or take an afternoon nap if you can’t get all your sleep in at night.
  •  Eat better!  
Go To Next: Facts About Dehydrated Skin - Part 3
Today, millions of people lay claim to having dry skin. And there are certainly thousands of skin care products formulated and marketed especially for dry skin. Yet, as a genetic skin type, dry skin by itself doesn’t exist. What does exist is the skin condition of dehydrated skin. If you are an oil-dry skin type, you may or may not be dehydrated. Anyone with any skin type can have dehydrated skin. Your skin feels dry and tight. When you smile, it seems like your face cracks. Your skin tone has changed from bright and clear to ashen and dull. It’s likely that your skin is dehydrated. Unfortunately, none of the dry-skin moisturizers and treatments alone can correct dehydrated skin. They can only help. Correcting dehydrated skin requires you to change your environment and make lifestyle changes.

Dehydrated skin is dry to the touch and it may itch. You might have flaky patches and rough spots, and you might see blotchy patches when you look in the mirror. Your skin tone lacks vibrancy and radiance. If your skin remains dehydrated for too long, keratinization can occur. The dead skin cells build up on the surface of your skin until they coat it, making it nearly impossible for moisturizer to reach your skin. Your skin gets more dehydrated. With keratinization come congestion and breakouts. Your skin is crying out for moisture. The good news is that dehydration is only a temporary condition, no matter what your age. Your skin can quickly rehydrate and can start to function as healthy skin once again

Moisture Deprivation
To solve the problem of dehydration, you first need to know what’s causing it. Something, perhaps several things, in your environment, health situation, or lifestyle is making your skin dry. Some of the causes listed here are simple to correct, and some take more effort.
  • You need to drink at least eight glasses, or 64 ounces, of water every day. This is in addition to other beverages you drink during the day, such as tea, coffee, or juice. You may want to eliminate these other beverages entirely, as these beverages can further dehydrate your skin and contribute to other skin conditions, such as acne.
  • These systems keep the atmosphere dry, which removes moisture from your skin. Use room humidifiers to keep air moist. If you can afford it, install a humidifier on your home furnace. The cost starts at about $350.00 and goes up from there. If you use room humidifiers, make sure you clean them every week so that mold and fungus don’t grow in them. Circulating moist mold and fungus in the air can createeven more health problems.
  • You can’t make the air outside more humid, but you can use humidifiers indoors. Fill a pottery crock with water and place several around your house. Refill when the water has evaporated.
  • Overuse of exfoliants dries out skin, making it rough and red. Use your exfoliant less frequently. Use a very light touch with scrub exfoliants, and only use the kind with polyurethane beads or cornmeal.
  • Overuse of topical prescription medications for skin, such as Retin-A, benzoyl peroxide, or hydroquinone. They can make skin dry, red, and inflamed. Cut back on use to every other day or every third day until your skin normalizes and redness is healed.

    Go To Next - Facts About Dehydrated Skin - Part 2
      Both photocarcinogenesis and extrinsic skin aging have been attributed to the damaging effects of solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Soy isoflavones have also been reported to support skin health by additional mechanisms, which mayor may not be related to their antioxidant properties. Treatment of human fibroblasts with a soy isoflavone extract significantly reduces UV-induced matrix metalloproteinase-l secretion. Additionally, treatment with two different soy extracts, one containing approximately 20% isoflavones and one containing about 11% isoflavones plus 14% soy saponins, also enhances fibroblast collagen synthesis.

      Overall, various components of soy, including isoflavones, saponins, and peptides, may have a variety of beneficial effects on skin health. The mechanisms of these effects appear to be varied and may include antioxidant potential, suppression of inflammatory processes, production of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and suppression of enzymes involved in ECM breakdown.

      Topical Application
      Topical applications of soy and soy isoflavones have potential protective effects against photocarcinogenesis.

      Dietary Consumption
      Administration of the soy extract significantly improves parameters of skin roughness and nonsignificantly reduced transepidermal water loss, fine wrinkles, and UV radiation-induced thickening of the outer layer of skin.
      This is the third part of Exfoliation Reviewed

      Exfoliation for Your Skin Type
      Each skin type has different exfoliation needs. As you begin to experiment with exfoliating, start with the following recommendations. Then you can determine if you need more or less exfoliation and make the adjustments that work for you personally.
      These recommendations can’t take into account your skin’s own special needs. So go slowly and gently at first to learn what works best for you.

      Normal Skin Exfoliation
      Normal skin needs exfoliation about three times a week. You can use any type of exfoliant, chemical, enzyme, or scrub. You may prefer to use a combination.

      Oily Skin Exfoliation
      With oily skin, you may be tempted to exfoliate every day, thinking that the more exfoliation you perform, the easier it will be to control and reduce your oil secretion.
      In fact, just the opposite is true.
      Daily exfoliation can overactivate your skin and make it even oilier. Instead, exfoliate
      a maximum of three times a week.


      Any of the following products can work well for your skin:
      • A clay mask. Apply the mask according to the package directions. Leave on your face about 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse.
      • Salicylic acid. Look for products that contain salicylic acid and use as directed.
      • Highly refined and finely ground cornmeal. You can purchase the cornmeal at the grocery or health food store. Mix a tablespoon of cornmeal with a bit of warm water. Apply gently to your skin and massage for a couple minutes. Rinse.
      • Exfoliants with polyurethane or silicone beads. These are gentle and don’t over-stimulate your skin but do a terrific job of removing dead skin cells. Use according to the package directions.
      • Enzymes. Use only a small amount and rinse thoroughly, being sure to get all of the product off your skin because they can continue to work for a long period of time.

      Sensitive Skin Exfoliation
      Yes, your sensitive skin needs exfoliation, but be careful. Your skin reacts unpredictably to skin care products, so you need a gentle exfoliant. Avoid chemical exfoliants as they can leave your skin red and inflamed. Instead, choose rice powders or old-fashioned oatmeal. To use, moisten 1 or 2 tablespoons with a small amount of water. Put on skin, relax for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse off. The oatmeal softens dry, patchy areas and soothes inflamed skin. The rice powder gently removes dead skin cells without causing irritation. If you have sensitive skin, you should only exfoliate once a week.

      Oil-Dry Skin Exfoliation
      Your skin really needs exfoliation. In its natural state, your skin doesn’t have enough sebum or oil. You want to stimulate oil production. You should still only exfoliate three times a week, but your skin can handle stronger exfoliants, such as glycolic acid AHAs or scrubs with polyurethane or silicone beads. Enzymes are also great for your skin type, especially for dry patches. You may want to alternate use of glycolic acid, beads, and enzymes. First, cleanse your skin, then apply the exfoliant. Rinse off and follow up with toner and moisturizer.

      Acne-Type Skin Exfoliation
      If your skin is inflamed with active acne, use salicylic acid three times a week. Salicylic acid helps kill germs, and that’s great for your skin. Clay masks and enzymes will also work well on your skin. You can also choose to alternate between salicylic acid, clay masks, and enzyme treatments. Always apply exfoliants to a clean face, and rinse well after using. Finish your routine with toner and moisturizer. Exfoliation makes skin more active, so restrain yourself from exfoliating more than three times a week. You don’t want active skin; you want soothed and calm skin. Avoid using scrubs, because they are too stimulating.
      This is the second part of Exfoliation Reviewed


      Different exfoliants
      Chemical exfoliants
      Chemical exfoliants dissolve the natural buildup of dead skin cells, sebum, and sweat. As such, chemical exfoliants need to be used carefully and with caution. Too much can burn the skin. Chemical exfoliants are either alpha hydroxy acids, commonly referred to as AHAs, or beta hydroxy acids, known as BHAs. Both kinds are frequently used in the same product.

      The most commonly used chemical exfoliants are:

      • Glycolic acid, an AHA, made from sugar.
      • Phenol, used only by physicians and paramedical technicians in chemical peels.
      • Salicylic acid, a BHA, made from aspirin. Salicylic acid is the only exfoliant that helps kill germs as it clears your skin.
      • Lactic acid, made from milk.
      Apply a thin layer of a chemical exfoliant to a clean face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Simply apply and let sit for a couple of minutes. You don’t need to rub the product into your skin, as the chemicals do all the work.

      Enzymes as exfoliants
      The pulp of certain fruits contains enzymes that actually can digest the dead skin  cell buildup on the skin. Enzymes are chemicals that help digest foods and other  substances. Your stomach secretes enzymes to digest food. The fruit enzymes have been used for many thousands of years as beauty treatments to “digest” dead skin cells. Papaya and pineapple are often used for exfoliation. Papaya contains the enzyme papain and pineapple contains bromelain. Pumpkin is another great choice for enzyme exfoliants. These work on the surface of the skin, and are great for skin with little bumps. You can purchase papaya or pineapple fresh from the grocery store, mash some up, and apply directly to clean facial or body skin. It smells great, but can be a bit messy. Leave the pulp-mask on for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse off. If you face starts to feel hot, rinse it off immediately. 
      Enzyme exfoliants can usually be found at health food stores, and at some boutique skin care shops. You may have a more difficult time finding packaged exfoliants at a drugstore, grocery store, or discount store.
      Apply enzyme exfoliant in a thin layer to cleansed skin and neck, avoiding the eye area. Don’t rub it in, just let it sit on the skin. Keep on your skin for 10 to 20 minutes, or as directed. Rinse off with water, then tone and moisturize as you would  normally.

      Exfoliant Scrubs
      Scrubs feel grainy. Exfoliating scrubs are made with grainy substances that act to mas- sage away the dead skin cell matter. Scrubs made with organic matter contain grainy substances such as ground nutshells, clay, cornmeal, oatmeal, or rice powder. Man- made grainy materials include polyurethane or silicone beads. Some forms of organic scrubs aren’t very good for your skin. Ground-up nutshells can be too rough and abrasive. They create microlacerations on the skin, which wounds the skin and can cause inflammation from microlacerations. Microlacerations take time to heal and leave the skin red and inflamed, and unfortunately, wounded skin is susceptible to infection. Conversely, polyurethane or silicone beads are smooth, and they roll in and out of the pores very gently. This is also true for organic scrubs such as finely ground cornmeal. 
      Use a small amount of scrub and apply it to your neck and face. Using small circular movements, rub gently on all areas of your face except the eye area. Be sure to include the sides of your nose, chin, forehead, and jaw line. Rinse well to remove all traces of the beads. Then tone and moisturize.  

      Mechanical Exfoliants
      Although it’s possible for you to use mechanical exfoliant machines at home, I don’t recommend it. These machines remove dead skin cells, but they’re tricky to use. It’s easy to use too much pressure or to use for too long a period of time in one area.
      Both of these errors result in inflammation, microlacerations, redness, and even pain.
      Examples of mechanical exfoliants are a hand-held microdermabrasion machine, rotating brush, or an ultrasound device. Using these machines correctly is difficult, and you could make a mistake that you’ll regret. This is nod recommend for home use, these types of treatments are best left to professional skin care technicians.

      Combination Exfoliants
      You’ll find exfoliant products in the stores that combine enzymes and scrubs, or chemicals and scrubs. They’re fine to use if they don’t irritate your skin and instead leave it looking clear and refined. Some are called gommages; others are lotions and creams.


      Go To Exfoliation Reviewed - Part 3 
      This guide or review is almost everything you have to know about exfoliation, I'll start of with the basics, explaining what exfoliation is and what you have to think about. Later on I will tell you about different methods you can use.

      What is exfoliation?
      Exfoliation is a quick and effective health and beauty technique. In just a couple of days, your skin accumulates dead skin cells along with other natural skin waste products. As these waste products build up on the surface, your skin becomes dull and can appear sluggish and tired. Exfoliation is the application of products that remove this waste and restore your skin’s natural beauty. After exfoliation, your face feels smoother to the touch and has a more refined texture.

      What should you think about?
      Go soft and easy and you’ll like the results. Use a heavy hand or use an exfoliant too frequently and you’ll need time out to heal from overindulgence. For some skin types, it’s tempting to overdo it, but avoid this at all costs. You could create yet another skin problem. That problem  is called cortisol overload. The stress of overexfoliating causes an increase in your cortisol levels. Too much cortisol is bad for your health and can lead to serious disruptions.  You know you’ve gone too far with an exfoliant if your skin turns red. Your face might also peel or flake. Leave the skin peels, as in heavy-duty chemical peels, to a trained professional. If you ever accidentally overdo exfoliation, apply aloe vera gel or a washcloth dipped in soothing chamomile tea to the damaged areas. Both of these remedies are soothing and reduce inflammation and redness. Plus, they cool the skin and make it feel better. You can find aloe vera gel at the health food store, or simply snip a leaf from an aloe plant and apply the somewhat sticky gel directly to your face.

      When to exfoliate?
      The best time to use an exfoliant is when it’s convenient for you, either morning or evening. First, cleanse your face, then apply the exfoliant. Remove the exfoliant, then continue with your daily ritual, toning and applying moisturizer. Some exfoliants are included in cleansing products and in moisturizers. These combination products may seem to make life easier and your skin care routine simpler, but daily exfoliation isn’t necessary for any skin type. If you want to use a combined product, such as a cleanser with either a chemical or physical exfoliant, only use it two or three times a week. On the off days, use a non-exfoliating product. However, the safest way to cleanse and exfoliate is to use products specific to the task. Use a daily cleanser that does not contain exfoliants, and on days when you choose to exfoliate, use a product specifically designed for exfoliation.


      Go to Exfoliation Reviewed - Part 2 

      Wrinkles are caused by collagen breakdown deep in your dermis, which is the layer below the skin's top layer. For you to prevent wrinkles, you need to stimulate collagen production while keeping free radicals such as the sun, stress and pollution from causing more damage. There are several methods to prevent wrinkles;
       
      1. Sunscreen.
      Sun damage is the number one cause of wrinkles, so if it's daylight outside, you should use sunscreen, no matter how cloudy it is. This goes for face, neck and you hands.

      2. Vitamin A (retinoid) creams
      Vitamins A keep wrinkles away and keep them from worsening. This is because vitamin A creams stimulate collagen renewal and prevent skin cells from breaking down. These creams should be used nightly. You could also eat foods that contain high levels of vitamins A

      Vitamin A is found in:

          * liver (beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish)
          * carrot (835 μg 93%)
          * broccoli leaf (800 μg 89%)
          * sweet potato (709 μg 79%)
          * spinach (469 μg 52%)
          * pumpkin (400 μg 41%)
          * collard greens (333 μg 37%)
          * egg (140 μg 16%)
          * apricot (96 μg 11%)
          * papaya (55 μg 6%)
          * mango (38 μg 4%)
          * pea (38 μg 4%)
          * broccoli (31 μg 3%)
          * milk (28 μg 3%)
       
      Some vitamin A and vitamin A-like creams:
          * Retin-A
          * Differin
          * Renova
          * RoC Retinol Actif Pur Anti-Wrinkle Treatment

      3. Exfoliate
      Exfoliating once a week with a alpha-hydroxy acid (AHAs) or a microdermabrasion kit will remove dead cell layer and make the skin the soft. AHA's are glycolic or lactic acid formulated to increase collagen in sun-damaged skin. But do not use both and be careful not to over-exfoliate.

      4. Antioxidants
      Antioxidants are chemical compounds that together with other antioxidants neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are the unstable oxygen molecules produced by stress, sun light, pollution, bad eating habits and so on. In other words free radicals are really bad for your skin. Free radicals attack healthy skin cells and cause collagen breakdown, all of which lead to wrinkles. Some of the antioxidants are vitamin C, vitamins E, and coenzyme Q10 work together to neutralize free radicals.
       
      List of creams with good antioxidants:
          * Prevage, a cream that is made with idebenone, a synthetic antioxidant
          * Skinceuticals C E Ferulic serum, reduces sunburned cells by a 96 percent
          * Nivea Visage All Around Protection Oil Free SPF 15 Lotion
          * Estee Lauder Future Perfect Anti-Wrinkle Crème SPF 15 ($45)
          * Clinique Superdefense Triple Action Moisturizer SPF 25 ($39.50)
          * Murad Energizing Pomegranate Treatment
          * DDF Daily Matte SPF 15

      You should also eat a lot of food containing different antioxidants, here’s a list of different foods:
      Vitamin C - Fresh fruits and vegetables
      Vitamin E - Vegetable oils
      Polyphenolic antioxidants - Tea, coffee, soy, fruit, olive oil, chocolate, cinnamon, oregano, red wine and green tea 
      Vitamins A - Fruit, vegetable and eggs
      Coenzyme Q10 - Beef, chicken heart, mackerel, sardine, soybean, parsley, spinach,  nuts and avocado


      Overall Tips:
      • Stop smoking
      • Use sunscreen
      • Moisturize
      • Wash your skin frequently
      • Eat a lot of vegetable and fruits
      Do you want a beautiful skin with only natural products that you can find in your kitchen and medicine cabinet?
      Then try these natural ingredients:
      1. Witch hazel
      2. Honey
      3. Lemon Juice
      4. Shea butter
      5. Jojoba
      6. Algae (polysacchride)
      7. Olive Oil 

      What is natural skin care? 
      It is the care of the skin, which is the largest organ of the body, using naturally-derived ingredients. Examples of these are herbs, roots, essential oils and flowers combined with naturally occurring carrier agents, preservatives, surfactants, humectants and emulsifiers, for example natural soap.

      1. Witch hazel 
      Extracts from its bark and leaves are used in aftershave lotions and lotions for treating bruises and insect bites. It is also used in treating acne. The liquid you can find in the shelves of drug store is an herbal extract with exceptional cleansing, soothing, and healing properties.

      To make your own witch hazel astringent; mix 1 cup of witch-hazel with 2 tablespoons of alcohol (or whine vinegar 1/4 cup) and apply it to your skin with a cotton ball. 

      2. Honey
      Honey naturally attracts and retains moisture. It is a natural source of antioxidants. 
      To make your own honey skin lotion;  mix one teaspoon honey, one teaspoon olive oil, and ¼ teaspoon lemon juice, rub on dry skin, and rinse off after fifteen minutes. 

      3. Lemon
      Lemon juice has a variety of uses for natural skin and beauty treatments. Here are some of the ways you can use lemon as a natural skin product;
      1. For brighter and softer skin
      - use fresh lemon juice (ecological if possible) on any area of your body, except aroung your eyes. You can also add 1/2 cup of fresh juice to your bath water. The lemon juice fades freckles and age spots by applying lemon juice on the areas before going to bed at night. Over the course of a weeks it will cleanse the skin and lighten its color. If you're a bit sensitive to lemon juice then dilute it with a bit of water.

      2. Removing blackheads
      - can easily be done with lemon, because it is a naturally exfoliate. Cut the lemon in half then rub it directly on your face (be careful around the eyes) before going to bed. You can also mix the lemon juice with two tablespoons of rosewater to make it more fragrant. Repeat the procedure until blackheads are gone.
      3. Moisturizing mask for dry skin
      - mix equal amounts of  lemon, honey, and olive oil . Apply the mixture to dry areas on the skin and allow it to dry thoroughly for about fifteen minutes. Rinse with warm water.

      4. Toner for oily skin
      - mix two tablespoons vodka (or whine vinegar if sensitive to alcohol) , 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of witch-hazel distilled, and 1 teaspoon of water. Use cotton balls to apply the mixture to your skin then rinse.

      5. Anti-wrinkle mask
      - mix a few drops of lemon juice, a teaspoon of honey,  and a drop of sweet almond oil. Apply this mixture on the face and allow it to dry for 25 minutes and wash off.

      Another thing about lemons is that it can be eaten with whole with its shell, but the lemons have to be ecological. It detoxifies for your body and makes your skin younger. If you don't want to eat whole lemons, you can instead mix the juice from a lemon with warm water and sweeten with 1 tsp of honey.


      4. Shea butter
      It is derived from the kernel of the Karite tree and is known  as a moisturizer and emollient. It is also used as a treatment for fading scars, eczema, burns, rashes, dry skin, dark spots, stretchmarks, wrinkles, and in lessening the irritation of psoriasis. Shea butter also protects against the sun's ultraviolet radiation. It is derived from the kernel of the Karite tree.You can buy it in your stores.
      5. Jojoba 
      Jojoba is a natural moisturizer for the skin and helps to restore the skin's natural Ph balance. Jojoba oil is also great for those with oily and acne-prone skin. You can buy it your store.

      6. Algae 
      Algae polysacchride is a very good natural moisturizer and removes oil from the skin. It is also an anti-aging substance.

      7. Olive Oil
      Why use olive oil? First of all it is rich in antioxidants including vitamins A and E, polyphenols, phytosterols and avenasterol. These neutralize free radicals and repair cell membranes. Second, olive oil contains squalene, which is a natural organic moisturizer. Squalene helps to regulate sebum which forms a coating on the skin that acts as a barrier, inhibits the growth of micro-organisms and lubricates our skin and hair. Third, it contains chlorophyll which is an anti-aging substance that promotes the healing of skin conditions and wounds.

      Give it a try!