Everlasting Flowers for your Beauty Regimen

Herbal Healer: What is everlasting?

August 15, 2012 8:00 pm  •  By Ted PanDeva Zagar Times Correspondent

(1) Comments

 

Think of the tiny, delicate, roundish paws of kittens and you have an image of everlasting’s dainty golden yellow flowers. Perhaps its common name issues from the fact that this vibrant shade of sunshine is not lost to seasonal aging or even drying. For this reason everlasting’s spicy, aromatic flowers are frequently added to other herbal blends to enhance eye appeal as well as to bolster flavor and widen the spectrum of healing potential.

WHAT DOES IT DO?
One of everlasting’s premier strengths is its ability to address skin conditions. It stimulates the growth and regeneration of new skin cells, and it works its magic on acne, dermatitis, sagging skin, stretch marks and even scars. Aromatherapists address phobias, depression and cases of shock by relying upon the essential oil distilled from everlasting. This botanical revealed an ability to significantly lower cholesterol levels when placed under the critical eye of scientific scrutiny. A tea made from the flowers has been used to relieve an ailing gall bladder, and its diuretic properties give welcomed relief to those suffering from rheumatism and cystitis. As an anti-inflammatory, everlasting beckons us from its shelf to address pain, and its antibacterial properties help in cases of infection.

ABOUT THE HERB
Because this perennial shrub attains a height of only one foot, it is also known as dwarf everlasting. It hails from temperate areas in Europe and Asia, being commonly found between eastern France and Denmark as well as on the mountains of Uzbekistan. Interestingly, everlasting’s tiny, sun-like blooms appear during August, the month that hosts the astrological sign of Leo and its solar system associate, the Sun.

RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
Add new life to your skin by applying a blend of a few drops of everlasting essential oil with a carrier oil such as sweet almond. This plant still basks in an ages-old reputation for making your smiling face look younger!

The opinions expressed are solely the writer’s. NOTE: Visit herbalastrology.com to read Ted PanDeva Zagar’s other articles and columns that discuss the benefits of herbs and natural foods. DISCLAIMER: The author’s comments are not intended to serve as medical advice, and he urges his readers to seek qualified wellness professionals to resolve matters of health.

My Thoughts

This is news to me.  A trip to Baguio, or wherever they grow those everlasting flowers, may not be a bad idea.  Who doesn't want to look younger?  On second thought, the trip will probably add several years to the way I look.  Maybe it's best to hunt for the everlasting oil. 

 

A Bikini Body?

Want that Bikini Body?

YOUR DAILY FIT TIP

By Carly Young, Special to Lifescript

Published May 11, 2012

 

Do you want a slimmer waist, muscular backside or defined triceps? Do you want all-over body toning to look great in that beachside bikini? Or do you just want to feel great, have more energy and be healthy?

Write it down. Making a list of all the benefits that will come with working out and focusing on your overall health as well as your appearance will help keep you motivated. You can also add potential rewards to your list as a reminder of what you’re working so hard for. Do you want to treat yourself to a manicure or would you rather work toward buying that teeny bikini? Take a business card from your favorite nail salon or print out a picture of the bikini you want and tape it to the list. Then keep your list in plain view.

The next time you hear the TV calling your name, take a good look at your list. Is watching “American Idol” really more important than burning fat, gaining muscle and improving your cardiovascular health? No way! So hang the list in a prominent place to remind you why you want to exercise – it’s a great motivational weight-loss tool! If you exercise right when you wake up, tape the list to your alarm clock so you have to remove it in order to press the snooze button. If you exercise right after work, hang up the list so it’s the first thing you see when you walk through the door.

By keeping your goals in mind and sight, you’ll be much more motivated to lace up your shoes and break a sweat. And your workout will go much faster if you keep the image of a tight, toned booty in your mind at all times!

Check out Health Bistro for more healthy food for thought. See what Lifescript editors are talking about and get the skinny on latest news. Share it with your friends (it’s free to sign up!), and bookmark it so you don’t miss a single juicy post!

Talk to us on Facebook and Twitter! 

 

MY THOUGHTS

 

If you're way past the vanity stage, then I know what your answer would be.  It's not how you would look in a bikini.  It's how less you would go and see a doctor and visit a drugstore.  Once again, an issue of meaningful beauty.

I don't need someone to tell me how good exercise is for me.  It's the road that leads to meaningful beauty.  The sad part, I am unable to put theory into practice.  I wish I have the time for American Idol.  At least, I can hop on a stepper or a treadmill while watching something.

But then, I will never be able to "find" time.  I need to "make" time.  Meaningful beauty is not hard to come by.  You just need to want it first.

 

EVER HEARD OF MENSTRUAL CUPS?

HAVE YOUR HEARD OF MENSTRUAL CUPS?
From the article 'Alternatively Speaking: Stopping the sores'
By NATALIE MARX
08/08/2011 09:46

Alternative medicine enthusiast Natalie Marx answers your questions: Are there any alternative remedies for travel sickness?
Talkbacks (5)


Question: Can you tell me more about menstrual cups? Are they safe? Is insertion much more difficult than tampons? What are the benefits? I'd like an educated opinion.

Answer: A menstrual cup is a type of cup or barrier worn inside the vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual fluid. Unlike tampons and pads, the cup collects menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. While insertion and removal may take some time to get used to, many women consider menstrual cups to be an innovative and safe alternative to tampons. Menstrual cups are safe for women of all ages. Here are some of the benefits that menstrual cups provide:

No risk of toxic shock syndrome or irritation, which may be caused by the bleaching of the absorbent fibers in tampons or the synthetic fibers themselves.

Can be worn for up to 12 hours on light flow days. This is almost twice as long as a tampon, so it is useful for overnight use or when a woman knows she won't have access to a bathroom.

Can be worn during vigorous physical activity, such as swimming and aerobics.
You might save money — consider how much money you spend each year on tampons and pads compared to the one-time cost of a menstrual cup.

More environmentally friendly.

There are a few different varieties of menstrual cups on the market. If you choose to try one out, make sure to read the manufacturer's directions and recommendations, as each product differs. Most are washable and reusable, but there are disposable menstrual cups, too. The cups look similar to a cervical cap with small flexible rods connected to the base to aid in their removal (kind of like a tiny plunger). With proper care, some menstrual cups can be used for up to ten years! The cups are made from a few different types of materials such as medical grade silicone (non-latex) or natural gum rubber.

Insertion and removal of menstrual cups takes practice, just as tampons and diaphragms do. The more knowledgeable and comfortable a woman is about and with her body, and the more she practices insertion, the easier it will be. With practice, privacy, and persistence, a woman can learn to avoid and/or minimize spills.

If you use tampons, then you'll probably be able to use menstrual cups, too. Now that you are informed, feel free to give this method a try!

MY THOUGHTS

Would you?  Give it a try, I mean?  The author is very convincing.  But it will take a change in mindset, especially if you have not even tried tampons.

CAN YOUR HAIRSTYLE AFFECT YOUR BEAUTY?

HOW MUCH OF YOUR HAIRSTYLE CAN AFFECT YOUR BEAUTY?

Can your hairstyle make you sexy?  Enhance your beauty?  We've heard it often enough.  Our hair is our crowning glory.  We tend to believe this don't we?  Otherwise, the issue of a 'bad hair day' won't be an issue at all.

Just think about it.  How often have you come late to work (or school) because your hair won't cooperate?  How often have you deleted pictures where you look like you haven't shampooed for days?  How often have you refused to go out because your hairstylist made a mess of your crowning glory?  How much money have you spent just so you can have beautiful hair?

If you care about your hair that much and you feel that those strands crowning your head can impact your beauty, check this article on sexy hairstyles from ivillage.com. http://www.ivillage.com/hair-inspiration-gallery-sexy-hairstyles/5-b-318337?nlcid=in|07-30-2011|

You can have bangs, ponytails, wavy hairstyles, party hairstyles, curly hairstyles. The picture gallery showcases around 30 different hairstyles.  Try out one or two.  Or you can try them all. See if you'd feel better.  If you do, good for you.  If you don't, congratulations!  You're probably moving into that stage where you pay attention to how you look but won't commit suicide if you don't.

Some people say that if you want to feel good you must look good.  I'd say, if you want to look good, you must feel good.  No hairstyle can hide the sadness in your eyes.  And people, whose opinion matter to you, will notice the glow in your eyes and hear the laughter in your voice.  Not that you just came out of a beauty parlor.

What Your Nail Polish Say About You: HOT PINK

What Your Nail Polish Say About You: HOT PINK

From the article 'What Does Your Nail Polish Say About You?'
Kristin Larson on Jun 14, 2011 at 1:57PM

Experts discuss how the color of your manicure can reveal your personality traits, style preferences -- even details about your job

Hot Pink: Calling All Bombshells

The woman who wears hot-pink nail polish is chic, sexy and bold, says Catherine Baek, education manager at Orly. “To wear this feminine color, you have to be confident because it’s eye-catching and people will notice,” she says.

How to wear it: Rock the sizzling hue on your nails with a neutral or natural shade on your toes to balance the brightness, Baek says.

MY THOUGHTS

I'm not for bright colors but they really look hot.  Especially on someone who is "chic, sexy, bold".  I can be bold but definitely not chic and sexy.  So, this color is not for me.

HEALTHY AGING

Healthy Aging Quick Tips
http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/healthy_aging/healthy_aging_quick_tips?utm_source=EWHNL

1. Keep an eye on fat.

As you age, your metabolism slows, and so your calorie needs decrease. Fat is relatively high in calories so be sure to eat only moderate amounts of healthy kinds (like monounsaturated fats in olives and avocados and omega-3s in fish). Limit saturated fats by choosing lower-fat versions of milk, yogurt and cheese and opting for fish, lean poultry and legumes in place of fatty red meats. Keep in mind that many low-fat or fat-free products—even healthy ones like yogurt—often contain added sugars, which bump up the calorie content. Read labels.

2. Mix foods and meds mindfully.

Food, alcohol and dietary supplements can interact with prescription drugs, changing the effectiveness of the drug or the way your body absorbs nutrients. For example, vitamin K can make the blood clot faster, so if you're on a blood-thinning medication, your doctor may tell you to avoid large amounts of foods that are high in K. These include leafy greens, such as kale, spinach, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Keep your doctor and pharmacist informed about any vitamin, mineral or herbal supplements you are using. And ask about interactions between whatever you are taking and food or alcohol.

3. Go fish for healthy vision.

Some research shows that people who have a higher dietary intake of foods containing omega-3 fatty acids from fish have a reduced risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration, a condition characterized by the deterioration of the central retina (a.k.a., macula) that is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50. Each week, aim to eat two servings of fish. Top a vegetable salad with poached salmon for lunch; serve a savory tilapia recipe for dinner.

4. Fill up on fresh fruit.

Unfortunately, constipation often becomes more common as you age—but you filling up on fiber and fluids can help improve digestion. Water and fiber are two main components of fresh fruits (which provide disease-fighting phytonutrients too), so eat a colorful mix: berries, oranges, grapes, pears, watermelon… whatever you like best!

5. Start the calcium count in the morning.

The risk for osteoporosis increases with age, but getting enough calcium (1,200 mg per day is the recommended amount for people over 50) can help reduce your risk. Get halfway to this goal—before lunch—by including a cup of calcium-fortified orange juice at breakfast and having a cup of low-fat yogurt for a midmorning snack.

6. Iron out changes in recommended nutrient intakes.

After menopause, women need only 8 mg of iron each day (same as what men need)—that’s less than half of the recommended intake of the mineral for women of child-bearing age. Too much iron can be harmful, particularly for people who have hemochromatosis, a genetic condition that causes a buildup of iron in the body’s organs. You don’t have to scale back on healthy iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans and leafy greens, but if you’re taking a multivitamin that includes iron, check to see that it doesn’t exceed your recommended 8 mg.

7. Write what you bite.

If middle-aged spread is creeping up on you—literally—try writing down what you eat in a food journal. Studies show that people consistently tend to underestimate what they eat and keeping track can give you a more accurate idea of how many calories you’re consuming and also help you see where you might cut back.

MY THOUGHTS

Why does everything seem to be harder to do when we're older?  Maybe if we were more mindful of our health when we were younger, there won't be much maintenance required.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU BRUSH YOUR HAIR?

BEAUTY TIPS: HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU BRUSH YOUR HAIR?

from the article "Val Answers Your Top 20 Haircare Questions"
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 21, 2011

Questions about hairstyling, color and maintenance? Don't worry—O beauty director Valerie Monroe has the answers. She gives you the straight (or wavy, or curly) story on how to keep your hair looking its best.


Q: How often should I brush my hair? And what kind of brush is best?

A: In spite of the old biceps-building 100-strokes-per-night advice, you should brush your hair minimally. Routine brushing damages the outer layer, or cuticle, of the strands, which can make hair look lusterless and frizzy, says Paradi Mirmirani, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco; better to use a comb with widely spaced teeth and smooth tips. But if you like the way a good brushing feels (as I do), avoid boar bristles, which generate damaging friction; instead, choose a model with plastic, ball-tipped bristles. The Goody Ouchless Cushion Brush ($7.99; drugstores) is a fine choice.

MY THOUGHTS

Did you ever fall for that 100-strokes every night?  I did.  Who wouldn't?  You heard from everyone. Now we know better.

WHAT TO DO WITH SHINY FACE

WHAT TO DO WITH SHINY FACE

from the article 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 23, 2011

Q. My face is always shiny even though I use blotting papers and powder. Help!

A: "This can be a challenging problem," says Jeannette Graf, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. But you already know that. Graf suggests using a cleanser with witch hazel, and following it with a lotion containing oil-absorbing microsponges. Next, try applying a foundation primer—the silicone in it gives your skin a matte finish—wherever you get shiny (on your forehead, say). Then, over an oil-free foundation or tinted moisturizer, use a brush to apply a veil of loose powder (don't use your fingers; they can transmit oil).

Keep in mind: Avoid drying out your skin, since that can cause oil glands to go into overdrive.

Keep reading: Val's basics for a fresh and flawless look

MY THOUGHTS

I hope these tips work.  The suggested products sound expensive.  But if they can take out the shine, money won't matter.

GET RID OF UNDEREYE CIRCLES

GET RID OF UNDEREYE CIRCLES

from the article 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 23, 2011

Q. So many products claim to get rid of undereye circles. How do I know which one to buy?

A: If your complexion is fair, your (red or purplish) dark circles are probably caused by blood vessels just below the skin. If you're olive or darker, your (brown) circles are probably caused by pigmentation. Look closely in a mirror, and press on the skin; if the color decreases, your circles are more likely from blood vessels, says Heidi Waldorf, MD, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. In this case, you might consider treatment with the V-beam laser, which zaps the vessels, causing them to disappear. For pigment-related shadows, Waldorf typically starts with creams containing retinoids (prescription tretinoin or tazarotene or over-the-counter retinols), to reduce pigmentation and increase cell turnover, and hydroquinone, a bleaching ingredient. Other helpful ingredients to look for are kojic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, kinetin and azelaic acid.

Keeping the area well hydrated can improve the appearance of either kind of undereye shadow and make it easier to apply concealer; use eye creams containing glycerin, petrolatum, dimethicone or kinetin. Gels containing caffeine will temporarily tighten the skin, too, Waldorf says. If topical creams seem to irritate the area or make the circles worse, or if the skin is burning, itching or scaling, see a dermatologist. The cause of the darkness could be eczema, for which you may need a prescription topical anti-inflammatory cream.

Keep in mind: First figure out what's causing your undereye shadows; creams can reduce only the pigment-related type.

Keep reading: 4 steps to conceal undereye circles

MY THOUGHTS

Don't you just hate those dark undereye circles. I think, among the beauty concerns of women, this is the one that makes people think something's also wrong from the inside.  We always connect dark undereye circles to lack of sleep.  Apparently, for some, getting enough sleep won't do the trick. 

CREAM, OIL OR LOTION?

CREAM, OIL OR LOTION

FROM THE ARTICLE 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 23, 2011

Q. Which is a better body moisturizer: cream, oil or lotion?

A: The best way to treat dry skin is to seal in moisture by forming a protective layer over it, says Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, co-director of laser surgery at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery. In order of effectiveness: oils, creams and lotions. The difference is the oil-to-water ratio, Tanzi says: Creams have more oil than water, and lotions have less.

Keep reading: When does a skincare product expire?

MY THOUGHTS

So, I suppose (using deductive reasoning) if you have oily skin but still needs to moisturize you reverse the process? Just thinking aloud!

PORE MINIMIZING MAKEUP

PORE MINIMIZING MAKEUP

from the article 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions/
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 23, 2011

Q. Does pore-minimizing makeup shrink your pores?

A: No, but it makes them appear smaller—which is a fine enough trick, if you ask me. Some formulas incorporate optical diffusers, which are very good at blurring the look of the pore, making it appear less noticeable.

Bottom line: Pore minimizers containing silicone can make your skin look flawless, but their residue is resistant to soap and water, so cleanse with makeup remover.

Keep reading: The easy guide to flawless skin

MY THOUGHTS

Imagine putting optical diffusers on your face.  Doesn't bring comfortable thoughts.

WHEN TO START USING ANTI-AGING PRODUCTS

WHEN TO START USING ANTI-AGING PRODUCTS

from the artcle 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 23, 2011

Q. I'm 26. When should I start using anti-aging products?

A: The day before yesterday (and I wish I'd followed my own advice). Leslie Baumann, MD, director of the Baumann Cosmetic and Research Institute in Miami Beach and author of The Skin Type Solution, says she tells patients as young as 18 to use ingredients that have been shown to slow the effects of aging. When it comes to wrinkles, prevention is key, so it's important to conserve collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin, all of which keep skin looking plump and firm. Retinoids and antioxidants help preserve all three. For nighttime, Baumann suggests using a prescription retinoid product like Retin-A, Tazorac, Differin or Renova—in conjunction with a daily moisturizer containing antioxidants like idebenone, coenzyme Q10, lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid. She points out that the best anti-aging product is sunscreen, used every day, even indoors (where UVA rays can work their bad chemistry through windows).

Bottom line: If you're old enough to ask the question, you're old enough to be using anti-aging products.

Keep reading: Get Val's skincare regimen

MY THOUGHTS

Chances are...you're way past 18.  And you're reading this because your age has started to show. I agree that there should be some amount of care so you're skin will not look as old as you are.  But I prefer to look my age rather than having a face as smooth as when I was born- while the other parts of my body look like...prunes!

EXPENSIVE SKINCARE

EXPENSIVE SKINCARE PRODUCTS

from the article Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 23, 2011

Q: Do more-expensive skincare products have some kind of "professional strength"?

A: Price alone has nothing to do with the strength and effectiveness of skincare products, says Cheryl Burgess, MD, medical director at the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, D.C. A drugstore mask or moisturizer can have the same concentrations of active ingredients as one from a department store or spa. But there is a correlation between the strength of a product and whether it's prescription or over-the-counter, says Burgess. A prescription product will likely contain a higher concentration of active ingredients than an OTC formula.

Bottom line: The price and strength of a product do not necessarily correlate.

MY THOUGHTS

Agree.  Totally.  If you can afford it, go for skincare products prescribed by an expert doctor.

PREVENTING STRETCH MARKS

Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  September 27, 2010
http://www.oprah.com/style/How-to-Prevent-and-Eliminate-Stretch-Marks

Q: I'm pregnant for the first time. Is there anything I can use to prevent or eliminate stretch marks?

A: We in the beauty department here at O have a special interest in this question, as one of us—congratulations, Jenny!—has recently enjoyed the magnificent, enlarging experience of a first pregnancy. (Not to mention a first baby.) Speaking of enlarging: Stretch marks—a result of the tearing of the dermis, the skin's second layer—most commonly occur during the third trimester of pregnancy, says Haideh Hirmand, MD, clinical assistant professor of surgery at Cornell-Weill Medical College/New York Presbyterian Hospital. (They can also occur during the rapid growth of puberty, with significant weight gain, or from hormonal shifts.) Some studies have suggested that topically applied vitamin E and essential oils can help prevent the marks from forming. Once they appear, several treatments with a fractional laser, which promotes collagen production and thickening of the dermis, can reduce their appearance (but not remove them).


Keep in mind: The sooner you treat stretch marks, the better the result, says Roy Geronemus, MD, clinical professor of dermatology at New York University Medical Center. So best to zap them with a pulsed dye laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) while they're still red.

MY THOUGHTS

This is not only true for pregnant women. I think obese people have stretch marks after losing a lot of weight.  Better the stretch marks than the unhealthy fats.

WHAT'S YOUR SKIN TYPE

WHAT'S YOUR SKIN TYPE

from the article 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  March 23, 2011

Q: How can I figure out my skin type?

A: It's easy. Wash your face with a cleanser designed for normal skin; rinse well, and pat dry with a soft towel. Now pick up a copy of Alan Bennett's The Uncommon Reader. It's a short, funny book, and if you're undistracted you can probably finish it in about an hour—exactly when your skin will be ready to evaluate. How does it feel? If it's tight, ashy or flaky, your complexion is dry, says Susan Taylor, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University. If you're oily only across the forehead, down the nose and on the chin, you've got combination skin; and if you need to blot your whole face with a tissue, you're oily. If your face feels irritated or slightly itchy, you likely have sensitive skin.

Bottom line: Once you've established your skin type, repeat the test four times a year, because your skin probably changes seasonally.

MY THOUGHTS

Knowing your skin type is very important.  You'll need this when buying make-up and other facial care products.  So, follow this tip and know exactly what your skin type is.

CINNAMON FOR SKIN-WHITENING

Safer, More Effective Skin-Whitening Creams From Ancient Chinese Herbal Medicine

http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/2021147/safer_more_effective_skinwhitening_creams_from_ancient_chinese_herbal_medicine/index.html?source=r_health
Posted on: Wednesday, 30 March 2011, 12:46 CDT

Scientists today reported discovery of the active ingredients in an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine for skin whitening, changing skin color to a lighter shade. The ingredients are poised for clinical trials as a safer, more effective alternative to skin whitening creams and lotions that millions of women and some men use in Asia and elsewhere, they said. The report was among more than 9,500 presentations this week at the 241st National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS).

The finding, which caps an intense search for these natural skin lightening substances, could be a boon to women in Asian countries, said study leader Hui-Min Wang, Ph.D. He explained that skin whitening products are all the rage there, but too-often accompanied by itching, redness, inflammation, and other side effects.

"Toxic skin whitening creams are a growing threat to women's health, especially in Asia," Wang said. "We hope that our product will improve lives and provide a safer, more natural way to lighten skin. A cream based on these herbal ingredients could be available on store shelves in as little as a year."

Skin-whitening is big business in countries like China, Japan, Korea, and India, where many women view whiter skin as a symbol of beauty, good health, and high social status. One study estimates that half the women in Asian countries use skin lightening creams, spending the equivalent of several billion dollars annually. People also use such products to fade unsightly age spots, freckles, and scars that have collected pigment.

Dozens of skin whitening creams, lotions, and other products are on sale throughout Asia. Some products contain toxic mercury, hydroquinone, and other potentially toxic substances that can cause redness, itching, inflammation and other skin problems. Some whitening ingredients could increase the risk of skin cancer when used frequently and at high doses, Wang said, citing the need for safer, more effective alternatives.

Wang and colleagues say that they have found a promising alternative in the form of an herbal "cure-all" used in traditional Chinese medicine in the form of soup or tea. The evergreen bush, Cinnamomum subavenium, is a close relative of the trees whose inner bark is the source of cinnamon. The scientists isolated two chemicals from the plant that have the ability to block tyrosinase, an enzyme that controls the synthesis of melanin, a dark pigment responsible for coloring skin, hair, and eyes. Inhibiting tyrosinase is one of the major strategies for skin-whitening, Wang said.

They tested these so-called "melanogenesis inhibitors" on the embryos of zebrafish, which are widely used as stand-ins for people and other animals in biomedical research. The embryos contain a highly visible band of black pigment. Exposure to low levels of the two chemicals reduced melanin production in the fish embryos by almost 50 percent within just four days, turning the embryos snowy white, the scientists said.

"When we saw the results, we were amazed," said Wang, who is with Kaohsiung Medical University in Taiwan. "My first thought was, well, 'If these herbal whiteners can transform zebrafish embryos from black to white, maybe they can also lighten women's skin.'"

He estimated that the chemicals are 100 times more effective in reducing melanin pigmentation than the common skin whitening agents kojic acid and arbutin, which have been used in cosmetics for more than 30 years. The substances did not appear to be toxic when tested in low doses on both cultured human skin cells and zebrafish embryos, Wang noted.

Wang is looking forward to clinical trials of a new beauty product based on the ingredients. Just a one percent solution of the chemicals could achieve dramatic skin whitening, Wang said, adding that several cosmetic companies are working with his group. Wang and his colleagues have applied for patents in the U.S., Japan, and Taiwan.

---

On the Net:

    American Chemical Society

MY THOUGHTS

Hope this works.  Herbal is certainly better than toxic chemicals.

IS YOUR PERIOD NORMAL(PART 1)

Is Your Period Normal? (Part 1)
By Dana Demas, Special to Lifescript
Published March 20, 2011

It’s bad enough we have to deal with monthly menstrual cycles, but what happens when we’re stuck with an extra heavy flow? Should we be worried? Find out what’s normal, what’s not, when to see your doctor and how to find relief...

If you’re like most women, you’ve experienced heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding.

At best, it’s a nuisance, with painful cramps and bloating that make that time of the month much more annoying. At worst, it could be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as endometrosis or fibroids.

With a little insight into your own cycle, you can figure out whether heavy bleeding is reason to run to a doctor, or if you should just stay in your “period panties."

Know Your Flow

Every woman is unique. So to understand what’s abnormal, you first have to know your normal menstrual cycle. Then you can determine why you’re bleeding is heavier than usual.

Most periods last 3-7 days and occur every 21-35 days. To measure the length of yours, count from the first day of bleeding to the last during each cycle.

To determine its frequency, count from the first day of bleeding in one cycle through the first day of bleeding in the next. Keep track of them in your calendar and eventually you should see a pattern in both numbers.

A day or two variation is nothing to worry about, but any bigger differences in cycle length or frequency are reasons to see your doctor, says Colleen Stockdale, M.D., assistant professor of obstetrics & gynecology at the University of Iowa.

A normal flow is trickier to measure. What’s heavy to one woman can be light to another.

A “heavy flow” is defined as more than 3-4 tablespoons of blood, which obviously is difficult to measure.

Fortunately, we have the Mansfield-Voda-Jorgensen Menstrual Bleeding Scale, which was created as part of a research project that has been tracking thousands of women’s menstrual cycles for more than 70 years. The six-point scale helps accurately determine flow based on the use of pads and tampons:

1. Spotting. A drop or two of blood, not even requiring sanitary protection, though you may prefer to use some.

2. Very Light Bleeding. Needing to change a low-absorbency tampon or pad 1-2 times per day.

3. Light Bleeding. Needing to change a low- or regular-absorbency tampon or pad 2-3 times per day.

4. Moderate Bleeding. Needing to change a regular-absorbency tampon or pad every 3-4 hours.

5. Heavy Bleeding. Needing to change a high-absorbency tampon or pad every 3-4 hours.

6. Very Heavy Bleeding or Gushing. Protection hardly works; you would need to change the highest absorbency tampon or pad every 1-2 hours.

If you soak through more than one pad or tampon every hour for 2-3 hours straight, call your doctor or head to an emergency room.

But just because your menstrual flow falls into the heavy-bleeding category doesn’t mean that something’s wrong. Some women just have heavier flows than others.

Bleeding to Worry About

Many problems can cause heavy periods, Stockdale says. Sometimes, it’s simply age, a change in contraception or life-stage that’s to blame. For example, some women who’ve had several children find that their periods get heavier because of structural changes to the uterus that doctors don’t entirely understand.

A sudden change in flow is what you need to watch for: If you don’t normally bleed heavily and suddenly start, or if you start bleeding between cycles, see your doctor.

It can be a sign of a another problem, says Stephanie McClellan, M.D., founder of the Doctors Office for Women, including:

    * Uterine polyps or fibroids. Both are usually benign growths that occur inside the uterus and cause bleeding.

    * Cervical polyps or precancerous changes to the cells of the cervix.

    * Common sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. If left untreated, both can lead to bleeding.

    * A yeast or bacterial infection. Untreated, these vaginal illnesses can cause bleeding.

    * Medical conditions that affect reproductive organs, such as endometriosis (see below).

    * General medical conditions, such as von Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder, and thyroid disease.

    * Obesity, diabetes and hypertension. Women who are overweight or have diabetes or hypertension are at higher risk for uterine hyperplasia – the abnormal thickening of the uterine lining.

    * Cancer. More rare, irregular menstrual bleeding can be the result of cancer.

MY THOUGHTS

This article has provided a very clear way of finding out if everything's ok with your period or if you might need to see a doctor.  The next post will be all about the diagnosis.

LOOK GREAT WHILE YOU TRAVEL

Look Great While You Travel

Melissa Kagan ON Jan 23, 2006 at 4:45AM
www.ivillage.com

Packing for a trip is no easy task. Most of us end up packing more clothes than we know what to do with. And shoes? Forget about it; they can require a separate suitcase on their own. It's not much easier when it comes to beauty and skin care. While we want to make sure we bring all the essentials, our skin may require different products when we travel than when we're at home. The key is to find multitasking products that don't take up too much room. Here's how to look great on the go:

    * Buy a cream blush that doubles as a lip tint.

    * Carry cleansing or refreshing wipes. Oil of Olay Daily Facials Express Wet Cloths wipe away dirt and makeup -- even waterproof mascara -- while nourishing skin with moisture and vitamin E. These are especially great for long airplane rides.

    * Carry an all-in-one moisturizer with sunscreen and tint. Look for creams with SPF 15 protection or higher that have a slight pigment to provide a great finished look without the heaviness of foundation.

    * Go from day into evening without overstuffing your makeup bag: A hint of shimmer can be applied to the face, body and even hair, creating a sexy nighttime look in seconds

    * Prepare for lost luggage by bringing a few basics on board. Many of the above products can be easily packed in your carry-on to tide you over until your luggage is found.

    * Drink plenty of water. Whether you are in the air, basking on the beach or skiing down the slopes, staying hydrated is the most important beauty tip of all.

    * Don't wear nail polish; it chips easily when you're toting luggage, making your hands instantly unsightly. Instead, get a "buff" manicure -- ask your manicurist to buff your nails to a shine instead of applying polish.

    * Carry some peppermint or rosemary oil on airplanes. The recirculated air in planes can make you stuffy. Rub a dab of essential oil on your temples to help relieve congestion. (If you have time for a bath when you get to your destination, you can add several drops of oil to that as well.)

    * Wear minimal eye makeup, and carry eye drops. Stuffy air, long lines and hours on the go will make you tired. Wilted eye makeup will make you look even more tired. If your eyes feel too naked without some attention, you can curl your lashes, apply a light mascara tint and set your brows in place with a clear brow gel. If your peepers feel dry or get red, a few eye drops will fix them.

    * Apply a leave-in conditioner before you begin your journey. Choose one that's formulated for your hair type so it won't weigh your hair down. The stresses of traveling, especially if you go to a different climate, can dry out hair and cause split ends

    * Carry an eye gel or cream. Often, applying a nutritious eye gel or cream is enough of a pick-me-up to get through customs. If not, at least you'll keep the delicate skin around your eyes moisturized and prevent puffiness.

    * Take your own supplies for your time away from home. Travel-size products leave room in your suitcase for other essentials. Most drugstores these days carry everything from mini nail polish remover pads to Shout stain remover cloths to deep-conditioning shampoo. Since products such as soaps and shampoos provided by hotels are often harsh, these petite products are important to have.

MY THOUGHTS

I think I'll follow the idea of nit having nail polish.  But I really don;t like bringing along toiletries.  I prefer to buy them from wherever it is I'm going.

GET OVER YOUR WAXING WOES

GET OVER YOUR WAXING WOES

from the article 'Don't Suffer in the Name of Looking Good'

Stay fabulous (and pain-free) with these expert tip

Waxing Woes

Pouring hot wax onto your most sensitive areas, and then ripping out hundreds of tiny hairs at once… what are we thinking? But it doesn't have to feel as bad as it sounds. Just follow these steps from April Meese, an esthetician who owns Customized Beauty Ltd, a salon specializing in permanent makeup, and Katherine Goldman, esthetician and owner of Stript Wax Bar in San Francisco.

• Take two Aleve 30 minutes before your appointment, recommends Meese.

• Make sure hair is long enough to be waxed, says Goldman. Go "hippie chic" for at least two weeks prior to the appointment.

• Apply 4 to 5 percent topical lidocaine, available over-the-counter at most pharmacies. "This is a numbing cream that can be put on the area and covered with plastic wrap 20 minutes before treatment. It is messy, but it's helpful for the extremely sensitive skin clients," she explains. If you do this, however, be sure to let the esthetician know you used numbing cream, so they will double check the temperature of the wax (since you might not be able to tell if it's too hot).

• Offer to help the esthetician stretch your skin during the appointment, says Meese. "The tighter the skin is, the less pain there will be."

• After you've been waxed, Goldman recommends avoiding extreme heat or exercise for 24 hours (that means no sunbathing, saunas or hot tubs).

• And, finally, Goldman's golden rule: "Do not shave in between waxes!" You don't want to irritate the area, plus you need to let the hair grow in for the next session.

MY THOUGHTS

Sometimes I can't believe what women are willing to go through to stay beautiful.  Vanity has a price indeed.  And I'm not just speaking of money.  Come to think of it though, I've never had a painful experience with waxing.  It can be uncomfortable but not painful.  Threading (eyebrows) - that's something I will never try again. 

SPIDER VEINS

Vitamins And Creams - Spider Veins
iVillage Beauty Body Spa
www.ivillage.com

ON Feb 22, 2001 at 4:24AM


There is a common myth that vitamin K pills, creams and lotions diminish spider veins. The rumor stems from the fact that vitamin K has been long associated with blood clotting. Taken orally, vitamin K can cause blood clots, stopping the flow of blood through a vein or capillary and thereby making it disappear. This works with healthy veins as well, posing definite health risks. Although reviews are mixed on the effectiveness of vitamin K, most experts agree that applying vitamin K to the skin, will do very little to clot blood and minimize spider veins.

To help prevent spider veins, maintain average body weight. Exercise -- especially walking -- also helps circulation and contraction of the muscles. Wear flat or low-heeled shoes and don't use body shapers (updated girdles) that restrict blood circulation. Consult your doctor about support stockings; they can be helpful, but they must fit properly or the constriction will be detrimental.

MY THOUGHTS

i heard that, when  left uncorrected, spider veins can be painful, too.  the advice laid out in this article are quite simple - walking, no high heels and no tight girdles.