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8 أغذية ضرورية لصحة شعرك

2012-07-01T10:06:00.001-07:00

العناية بالشعر لا تنحصر فقط فى غسله بطريقة صحيحة بانتظام وترطيبه أسبوعيا بأحد الكريمات العالية الجودة. فهذه الخطوات لن تضمن لك الحصول على شعر صحي بنسبة %100 ما لم توجهي اهتمامك الأكبر لنوع الطعام الذي تتناولينه.

فمن المعروف أن الشعر ينمو بمعدل 1/4-1/2 بوصة شهريا، وكل ما هو حديث النمو سواء كان الشعر أو الأظافر أو البشرة يعتمد فى المقام الأول على المغذيات التى يتناولها الجسم. وكلما كان طعامك صحيا يمد الجسم بالبروتينات المسؤولة عن نمو الشعر وكان خاليا من الدهون الثقيلة والمواد السامة أو التي تضر بأنسجة الجسم وخلاياه، نما الشعر الجديد بشكل سليم وبدا أكثر قوة وصحة.

وفى هذا الصدد، حدد الأطباء وخبراء العناية بالشعر ثمانية أطعمة أساسية تقوّي الشعر وتعزز صحته ولمعانه يجب أن يتضمنها برنامجك الغذائي اليومي نسردها لك فى السطور التالية:

المأكولات البحرية ( السمك )

المأكولات البحرية من الأغذية الغنية بدهون الأوميجا 3 وهو أحد الأحماض الدهنية الصحية التى تحافظ على رطوبة وصحة الشعر ونقص مثل هذه الأحماض الدهنية فى الجسم قد يُؤدي إلى جفاف جلد فروة الرأس وشعر الرأس، وتحويله إلى شعر باهت ومتقصف يفتقد النضارة والحيوية.

تحتوي المأكولات البحرية أيضا على اجود أنواع البروتينات بالإضافة الى كميات وفيرة من الحديد، وينصحك الخبراء بتناول السمك مرة واحدة فى الأسبوع على الأقل لتحقيق أعلى استفادة ممكنة منه، وللنباتيين ممن لا يتناولون لحوم الأسماك بشكل عام، فإن تناول ملعقة صغيرة من مطحون بذور الكتان يومياً، يعطي الجسم حاجته من تلك الأحماض الدهنية.

الخضروات الخضراء الداكنة

تعتبر الخضروات الخضراء الداكنة كالبروكلي والجرجير والسبانخ والسلق والملوخية مصادر غذائية ممتازة لفيتامين إيه وسي المسئولين عن تحفيز فروة الرأس لإفراز الدهون الطبيعية المرطبة للشعر. هذه الخضروات تمد فروة الرأس بالحديد والكالسيوم. لذا فهى تعمل بكفاءة في علاج جفاف وضعف الشعر.

الجزر

لا تقتصر فوائد الجزر على الحفاظ على النظر فقط، بل يسهم أيضا بشكل كبير فى تحفيز نمو الشعر( إطالته ) ويمد فروة الرأس بالمرطبات الطبيعية بفضل احتوائه على نسبة كبيرة من الفيتامين وهو ما يترتب عليه مظهر لامع وحيوية أكثر لشعرك.

البقوليات

أكد خبراء العناية بالشعر على الدور المهم الذي تقوم به البقوليات فى الحفاظ على الشعر من التقصف والتكسر وعلاج مشكلة بطء نموه، فالبقوليات بأنواعها المختلفة تمد فروة الرأس بكميات وفيرة من البروتينات المحفزة للنمو الصحي للشعر. إضافة إلى أنها تحتوي على الحديد والزنك ومركب البيوتين الذي يعد نقصه في الجسم سببا رئيسيا وراء تقصف وتكسر الشعر، وقلة إنتاجه، وتأخر نموه.

المكسرات

ربما لا يدرك الكثيرون الفوائد الجمة للمكسرات كالجوز واللوز والكاجو فى الوقاية من العديد من الامراض الجسمانية مثل أمراض القلب والمعدة والأورام السرطانية، إضافة إلى ذلك تمتلك هذه المكسرات قدرة مذهلة على تحسين مظهر البشرة والشعر. وتعتبر أجودها وأكثرها إفادة للشعر هى المكسرات البرازيلية، وذلك بسبب احتوائها على كميات كبيرة من السيلينيوم والزنك المسؤولين الرئيسيين عن صحة فروة الرأس وحماية الشعر من التساقط.

تحتوي بعض المكسرات أيضا كالجوز ( عين الجمل) على نوع أوميجا-3 من الأحماض الدهنية، والتي تُكسب الشعر بنية قوية خلال مراحل تكوين الشعر، كما تُكسبه ترطيباً متواصلاً، عبر إفراز الدهون الجلدية، وذلك طوال عمر الشعرة.

البيض والدواجن

يحتوي الدجاج والديك الرومي على بروتينات من نوعيات ذات جودة عالية تحافظ على الشعر من التقصف والضعف وفقدان لمعانه ولونه الطبيعي.

يعد البيض أيضا أحد مصادر البروتينات الحيوانية «عالية الجودة» ويحتوي على كميات وفيرة من فيتامين بي-12 ومادة البيوتين.

منتجات الألبان القليلة الدسم

مشتقات الألبان الخالية من الدسم هي مصدر جيد للكالسيوم وللبروتينات في مركبات كازين ومصل اللبن. إضافة إلى معادن الحديد والزنك والبوتاسيوم وفيتامينات بي وسي وإي وإيه.

والكالسيوم معدن مهم لنمو شعر صحي، وبروتينات الحليب هي من الأنواع «عالية النوعية»، المهمة أيضاً في توفير العناصر الأساسية لبناء تراكيب شعر سليم.

ينصحك الخبراء بأن تتناولي كوبا من الزبادي او الجبن كل صباح او احتفظي به معك عند الذهاب للعمل لتتناوليه كوجبة خفيفة ظهرا قبل وجبة الغداء . ولأفضل استفادة ممكنة، امزجي معها ملعقة من مطحون بذور الكتان او مكسرات الجزر الغنيين بدهون الاوميجا 3 لتتضاعف الفائدة وتحصلي على شعر صحي كثيف ولامع.

أفضل 10 تصفيفات شعر للصيف

2012-06-30T04:31:00.001-07:00

كثير من السيدات يقعن في حيرة من أمرهن وهن بصدد اختيار تصفيفة لشعرهن خاصة في فصل الصيف الذي يتعرض فيه الشعر للتلف سواء بفعل الرطوبة أو العرق.

لذلك حرص خبراء التجميل على ابتكار مجموعة من أفضل تصفيفات الشعر التي تتماشى وطبيعة فصل الصيف، وقد حرص على إتباع هذه التصفيفات أشهر نجمات هوليوود مع فارق نوعية شعر كل منهن، فالمميز في هذه المجموعة من التصفيفات أنها تتماشي مع كافة أنواع الشعر على حد سواء

وإليك مجموعة من أسهل تصفيفات الشعر لتختاري منها ما يناسبك علما بأنها الأكثر موضة في هوليوود:

1- تصفيفة السنبلة:

تصفيفة السنبلة هي الأكثر انتشارا في هوليوود وقد شوهدت بها النجمة الشابة مينكا كيلي، والتي ينصح مصفف شعرها مارك تاونسيند، باستخدام السبراي المكثف للشعر قبل اتباع هذه التصفيفة وغسل الشعر قبل تصفيفه بيوم أو اثنين منعا من انزلاق الشعر خاصة بفعل المرطبات التي ينصح باستخدامها في فصل الصيف والتي تحول دون تقصف الشعر وتهيشه بفعل الرطوبة.

2- كعكة الشعر العلوية:

ولا تنسي في فصل الصيف تجربة كعكة الشعر التي ظهرت بها الفنانة لورين كونراد وكذلك العديد من نجمات العرب أبرزهن المغنية نوال الزغبي.
وينصح عند اتباع هذه التصفيفة تجنب استخدام مرطبات الشعر المكثفة خاصة على أطراف الشعر، فإبراز طبيعة الشعر وتموجاته هو ما سيجعل هذه التصفيفة أكثر جاذبية، بل ويضفي على وجه صاحبته مظهرا أنيقا مفعما بالحيوية والنشاط.

3- رفع الجزء الخلفي من الشعر وترك الأمامي يتدلى:

النجمة السمراء جابرييل يونيون كثيرا ما تظهر في فصل الصيف بتصفيفة شعر مبتكرة وجذابة تتماشي وطبيعة شعرها الخشن. وتتميز هذه التصفيفة بفرق الشعر من الأمام ورفع الجزء الخلفي منه لأعلى مع ترك خصلات مموجة تتدلى حول الوجه.
ومن الممكن اتباع هذه التصفيفة في خروجاتك النهارية كما أنها مناسبة للمناسبات الرسمية وكذلك للأفراح، مع إضافة إكسسوارات من الماس أو الورود بالجزء الخلفي من الشعر.
وينصح برش الشعر بقليل من السبراي المثبت وذلك للحفاظ على تصفيفة الشعر أطول فترة ممكنة خاصة مع ارتفاع درجة الحرارة ونسبة الرطوبة في الجو.

4- ذيل الحصان:

يكثر في فصل الصيف اتباع تصفيفة ذيل الحصان، ولا مانع من تجربة تصفيفة النجمة إيما روبرتس التي ظهرت بها مؤخرا وهي ذيل الحصان المرفوع لأعلى.

5- الضفيرة الجانبية:

أما المغنية الشابة تايلور سويفت فقد ظهرت بتصفيفة شعر الضفيرة الجانبية، وينصح خبير التصفيف الخاص بتايلور بلم الشعر بجانب الرقبة برابطة شعر رفيعة تتماشى مع لون الشعر قبل تضفير الشعر. ولمزيد من الجمال اترك بعضا من خصلات شعرك الأمامية تتدلى بلطف على وجهك.

6- قصة شعر هالي بيري القصيرة:

قصة شعر هالي بيري القصيرة يكثر انتشارها في أوروبا، وإذا كنت تعانين من تهيش الشعر بفعل الرطوبة فاستعيني بكريمات الترطيب التي ستحمي شعرك وتتركه لامعا وجذابا.

7- ذيل الحصان الجانبي المموج:

يمكنك كذلك إذا كنت من محبي تصفيفة ذيل الحصان، إتباعها عن طريق لم الشعر من الجانب وترك الشعر ليتدلي بتمويجاته بجانب رقبتك، مع فرق الشعر من الجانب المعاكس.

8- إخفاء خصلات الشعر الجانبية:

جربي فرق شعرك من المنتصف وأخذ إحدى خصلاته الجانبية وتثبيتها بلطف أسفل الشعر، مع ترك الجهة الأخرى لتتدلى بلطف على وجهك. ويفضل مع هذه التصفيفه إحداث بعض التمويجات بطول الشعر لمزيد من الجاذبية والجمال.

9- رفع غرة الشعر للخلف:
كثيرا ما يؤدي تعرق جبهة الرأس إلى إفساد غرة الشعر، لذلك لجأت النجمة ريس ويزرسبون إلى رفع غرتها إلى الخلف وترك بقية شعرها المموج ليتدلى حول وجهها.

10- كعكة الشعر الجانبية:

ظهرت النجمة الشقراء إيما ستون بتصفيفة شعر جذابة وبسيطة وهي عبارة عن كعكة شعر تتدلى بجانب رقبتها، مع لف وتثبيت غرتها أسفل شعرها.

أشهر ست نصائح من الخبراء لجمال شعرك

2012-06-30T04:20:00.003-07:00

يقول خبراء العناية بالشعر إن صحة وقوة الشعر يعتمدان بشكل أساسي على طريقة اعتنائك به مؤكدين أن أغلب المشاكل التي يتعرض لها شعرك كل يوم ما هى إلا نتاج لأسلوب خاطئ في التعامل معه. نقدم لك أشهر ست نصائح لخبراء العناية بالشعر تضمن لك الحصول على شعر صحي وقوي.

1- استخدمي الماء البارد للحصول على الشعر اللامع،
ولست بحاجة لاستخدام هذا الكم الهائل من مستحضرات تصفيف الشعر لتكسبي شعرك اللمعان المطلوب، فهو فى النهاية سيكون لمعانا مصطنعا ومؤقتا ذلك إلى جانب الآثار الجانبية التي تسببها هذه المستحضرات على الشعر، فبدلا من ذلك ينصحك الخبراء باستخدام الماء البارد على شعرك مع نهاية كل حمام، فهو يتميز بقدرة رائعة تعمل على سد الطبقات الخارجية من الشعر لينعكس عليها الضوء مما يضيف له بريقا ولمعانا طبيعيين .

2- تجنبي استخدام المنشفة على شعرك
واحدة من الأخطاء الشائعة التى يقع فيها أغلب السيدات هى ترك الشعر ملفوفا بالمنشفة بعد الاستحمام لفترة طويلة تمتد لساعات، فتغليف الشعر طويلا بقطعة قماش مبللة يجعله أكثر قابلية للانتفاش السريع، ذلك نتيجة ما يقوم به القطن من فتح للطبقات الخارجية من الشعر.

وبالنسبة لأفضل طريقة ينصح الخبراء بها لتجفيف الشعر بسهولة دون إصابته بالتهيش هى ان تقومي بعصرالخصلات بيديك جيدا وتركه ليجف في الهواء الطبيعي لمدة تتراوح بين 5 و10 دقائق قبل تصفيفه بالطرق المختلفة.

3- لا تسرعي بتسريح شعرك بعد وضع الكريمات
لا تبادري بتسريح شعرك أو تصفيفه مباشرة بعد وضع مستحضرات أو كريمات العناية بالشعر، بل ينصح بتركها على الشعر لمدة تتراوح ما بين 5 و10 دقائق حتى يستطيع امتصاص العناصر الفعالة الموجودة بالكريمات فتسهل عملية التصفيف.

4- دلكي فروة رأسك بانتظام
عملية تدليك الشعر باستمرار هى السر الأول وراء صحة وقوة الشعر حيث إنها تعمل على تنشيط الدورة الدموية وتحفيز فروة الرأس على إفراز زيوتها التي تغذي بقية الشعر وحتى أطرافه، لذا من الوصايا الهامة التى يدعوك الخبراء للقيام بها، تدليك الرأس.

5- قصي أطراف شعرك من حين لآخر
تقصف الشعر وتكسر أطرافه دليل على عدم صحة الشعر خاصة انه مع الوقت يمتد التقصف لجميع خصلات الشعر، لذا يُنصح

بضرورة التخلص من أطراف الشعر المتقصفة كل ثمانية أسابيع على الأقل واستعيني بمقص حاد للقيام بهذه العملية

6- تجنبي تمشيط شعرك وهو مبلل
تمشيط الشعر كثيرا مفيد لفروة الرأس وأيضا لجذور الشعر وهي الجزء الحي من الشعر، وذلك لأن تمشيط الشعر يجعل الدم يتدفق إلى فروة الرأس ويوصل الغذاء لجذور الشعر وبالتالي يحافظ على حيوية شعرك ولا يتسبب في تساقطه أو ضعفه. إلا أن ما يتسبب فى تساقط الشعر هو تمشيطه وهو مبلل” غارق في الماء” واختيار فرشاة بشعيرات من النايلون. اختاري فرشاة من الشعيرات الطبيعية أو مشطا واسعا وإذا لاحظت أن أطراف الشعر تلتصق بالفرشاة فهذا يعني أنها لا تناسب شعرك وستسبب تساقطه وتقصيفه. قومي بتمرير أصابعك بين خصلات شعرك وهو مبلل ولا تمشطيه إلا بعد أن يجف قليلا.

ضاعفي كثافة الشعر ثلاث مرات أكثر

2012-06-30T04:09:00.000-07:00

الشعر الخفيف يتطلب من المرأه قدرا من الحكمة والذكاء فى التعامل معه لتستطيع إظهاره بشكل صحي وأكثر كثافة حتى ولو بطرق وهمية. خبراء العناية بالشعر يقدمون لك 10 حيل يمكنك من خلالها زيادة كثافة الشعر بعضها بشكل وهمي والبعض الآخر فعلياً.

1- غيري مسار خصلات شعرك

عندما يبقى الشعر مصففا بطريقة معينة ومتدليا فى اتجاه واحد طوال الوقت يصبح أكثر هبوطا ونوما فتظهر خفته بشكل أكبر، لذا احرصي دوما على تغيير مسار انسداله فمثلا قومي بجمعه كاملا للأمام ( عكس اتجاه نموه) ثم ارجاعه للخلف وأميلي الخصلات على جانبي الوجه بشكل فوضوي لتكسبي مظهره قدرا من الحيوية.

2- البلسم أولا ثم الشامبو

تغير الروتين المعتاد لغسل الشعر يمكن ان يحمي شعرك من الارتخاء والضعف. فطبقا لوجهة نظر الخبراء، فالبلسم قد يغذي الشعر ولكنه يثقل الخصلات ويجعلها أميل للهبوط لذا ينصحونك بغسل الشعر بالشامبو بعد وضع البلسم وليس قبله لإزالة بقايا البلسم المتراكمة على خصلات الشعر بفاعلية.

3- اختاري القصة الصحيحة لشعرك

الشعر الخفيف لا تناسبه أي قصة، لذا، لابد أن تستشيري مصفف الشعر لاختيار قصة تجعله يبدو وكأنه كثيف. وبشكل عام من القصات الأنسب لشعرك الكاريه المموج الخصلات والغرة الأمامية القصيرة و الشعر المتوسط الطول المموج الأطراف.

4- حيل استخدام المجفف

هناك طريقتان مثاليتان لاستخدام المجفف مع الشعر الخفيف لجعله يبدو كثيفا وصحياً، أولهما تجفيفه بعد الاستحمام فى عكس اتجاه نموه ( أي بعد جمعه للأمام) لخلق ارتفاع لخصلات الشعر ، والثانية هى فرده وثني أطرافه للخارج ليبدو ممتلأ وغنياً.

5- أضيفي القليل من الزيت

دهن الشعر بالقليل من الزيت قد يزيد من كثافة الشعر بشرط أن يكون خفيفا وسهل الامتصاص مثل زيت جوز الهند وزيوت الزهور حتى لا يصاب الشعر بالتزيت ويثقله.

6- جربي الشامبو الجاف

من الحيل المبتكرة لزيادة كثافة الشعر نثره بالقليل من الشامبو الجاف، اجمعي شعرك للأمام ثم انثري سبراي الشامبو الجاف مباشرة على الجذور ثم دلكي الخصلات قليلا بأصابع يديك وأسدلي شعرك حول وجهك وستلاحظين انه بدا اكثر ارتفاعا وكثافة.

7- استعيني بمنتجات رفع الشعر

فى حالة إن كنت مدعوة لسهرة وترغبين فى إكساب شعرك المزيد من الكثافة بشكل سريع، استخدمي أحد المستحضرات الخفيفة المتخصصة فى رفع الشعر كالميست ” a lightweight misting volumizer” أو الموس وضعني منه على منتصف الشعر ووزعيه بيديك على باقي الخصلات فهو سيغلف خصلات الشعر بطبقة تجعله يبدو أكثر كثافة دون أن يهبط.

8- اطعمي فروة رأسك

إذا كانت طبيعة خصلات شعرك ضعيفة فربما تحتاج فروة رأسك للمزيد من النغذية فلقد أثبت الدراسات أن فروة الرأس الصحية تحفز نمو الشعر وتعزز قوته وصحته. لذا احرصي على منح فروة رأسك جلسة تدليك أسبوعية بأحد الزيوت الغنية المعالجة.

9- مشطى الجذور بمشط رفيع

إحدى الحيل الذكية الأخرى لخلق ارتفاع للشعر هى تمشيط الجذور فقط بمشط ضيق الأسنان. لا تستخدي هذا المشط فى تمشيط شعرك بأكمله حتى لا يتسبب في تقصفه وإضعافه أكثر.

10- لفى شعرك حول بكرات الشعر

لف الشعر حول بكرات هو حيلة يستخدمها أغلب مصففي الشعر لإكسابة قدرا من الكثافة والانسابية، لذا لا تتردي فى اتباع هذه الحيلة بدلا من المجفف إن كان لا يجدي نفعا وذلك بتقسيم الشعر بعد غسله لخصلات صغيرة ولفها على البكر وتركها حتى تجف. فكي البكر بعد ذلك وصففي شعرك بلطف وستلاحظين نتيجة فعالة.

أسئلة مهمة لجمال شعرك

2012-06-30T04:06:00.000-07:00

أسئلة كثيرة تدور في رأس كل سيدة وفتاة عن افضل الطرق للحصول على شعر جميل يزيد من حيوية وجمال صاحبته، وإليك مجموعة من الإجابات العملية على تلك الأسئلة من كبار خبراء العناية بصحة وجمال الشعر.

-1 اريد التغيير من شعري لكي أبدو اصغر عمرا، فماذا علي ان افعل؟ هل اصبغ شعري أم احصل على غرة أم اقوم بقصه؟

من افضل خدع الشعر المتبعة لإعادة الحيوية والشباب للوجه مرة أخرى الحصول على غرة للشعر.

فالغرة من شأنها إخفاء التجاعيد بمنطقة الجبهة كما انها تجعلك تبدين أكثر شبابا وافضل الغرات في هذا الصدد هي الغرات الجانبية الطويلة.

اما قص الشعر فلن يجدي نفعا بل انه سيجعلك تبدين أكبر عمرا، فالشعر القصير يقيد صاحبته مما يجعلها تبدو بالمظهر ذاته يوميا وهو ما يجعلك تشعرين بتقدم العمر والرتابة. بينما الشعر الطويل يمكنك التنويع في تصفيفاته بسهولة.

وبخصوص الصبغة، إذا كانت بشرتك اصبحت شاحبة بعض الشيء بفعل تقدم العمر اضفي خصلات فاتحة على شعرك دون اللجوء إلى ألوان تتناقض مع لون شعرك الأساسي.

2- ما افضل الطرق لإطالة الشعر الفرنسي القصير حتي الكتف؟

اتركي شعرك ينمو لأربعة اشهر قبل الحصول على قصة شعر جديدة وفي طريقك لقصة شعر جديدة يمكنك تنميك شعرك بلمه خلف أذنيك واسدال غرتك إلى الجانب. وإذا كنت تعانين من تهيش الشعر فصففيه للأمام أو نحو أحد الجانبين.

بعد مرور اربعة اشهر اطلبي من مصففك الخاص قص شعرك من الخلف مع ترك الخصلات الأمامية اطول قليلا فهذه القصة ستجعل شعرك يبدو أكثر طولا.

3- كيف احافظ على شعري المصبوغ من التقصف دون إفساد لونه؟

إذا كان شعرك سهل التقصف والتكسر فهذا يعني انه خفيف وقد تم صبغه أكثر مما ينبغي مما ادى إلى فقدانه حيويته.

فعادة ما يبهت لون الشعر بسرعة حينما يكون تالفا وللحفاظ عليه من ان يصبح اكثر تلفا فلابد من ان تتجنبي صبغه مجددا والإفراط في غسيله بالشامبو واصبغي خصلات شعرك فقط كل ثمانية أسابيع.

وينصح باستخدام منتجات العناية بالشعر من المرطبات والزيوت الطبيعية، وشرب كميات وفيرة من المياه مع تناول الفيتامينات.

4- شعري دهني عند الجذور لكنه جاف عند الأطراف وغير كثيف. وكلما صففته تزداد الاطراف جفافا وكلما استخدمت المرطبات تزداد جذور شعري تزيتا. فماذا أفعل؟

ربما يحدث هذا لأنك تغسلين شعرك يوميا وهو ما يدفع فروة رأسك لإفراز المزيد من الزيوت الطبيعية لتعويض تلك التي يفقدها الشعر بعد غسيله يوميا، لذلك ينصح بغسل الشعر كل يومين ثم دهن النصف السفلي للشعر فقط بالمرطب.

ومن الممكن كذلك تجربة الشامبو الجاف فهو يساعد على امتصاص الزيوت الزائدة من الشعر والتي تجعله يبدو أقل كثافة.

5- اعاني من تهيش الشعر بالرغم من انني لم اصبغه قط ولم افرده كيميائيا من قبل، وقلما استخدم المجففات الكهربائية أو المكواة، فماذا أفعل؟

استخدمي الكريمات المضادة للتهيش، وذلك بوضع قليل من الكريم على الشعر المبلل قبل تمشيطه جيدا بمشط واسع السنون. ويمكنك بعد ذلك تجفيف الشعر بالمجفف الكهربائي باستخدام فرشاة مصنوعة من الشعر الطبيعي حيث انها افضل من تلك المصنوعة من النايلون.

6- احاول إطالة شعري لكن اطراف شعري تتعرض للتقصف، فكيف اتخلص من التقصف دون فقدان طول شعري؟

اتركي شعرك ليطول مع قص اطرافه فقط كل 10-12 أسبوعا، حيث ان الشعر المتقصف علاجه الوحيد هو القص فلا يوجد مرطب أو شامبو يعالج التقصف نهائيا. إلا انه يمكنك تجربة الكريمات الخفيفة التي توضع على أطراف الشعر عند التصفيف والتي يدوم مفعولها لست ساعات.

The Best Natural Acne Treatments and Making Acne Vanish Permanently

2012-03-23T17:24:00.003-07:00

Acne can be unsightly and embarrassing, but it can be treated and the effects can be minimized. Natural acne treatments can help alleviate the problem. Laser treatments can provide a more permanent solution and may be covered by your health insurance. It is up to each person to find the best acne treatments for their particular problem. This article discusses:

What is the role of herbs in treatment of acne?
Is it possible to get an acne free skin by laser treatment?
Why acne is so prevalent among teenagers?

Acne can be unsightly and embarrassing, but it can be treated and the effects can be minimized. Natural acne treatments can help alleviate the problem. Laser treatments can provide a more permanent solution. It is up to each person to find the best acne treatments for their particular problem.

What is Acne and why does it happen?

Acne is an infection or disorder of the hair follicles (or pores) and sebaceous glands. Acne can take the form of pimples, black heads, white heads, cysts, abscesses or nodules. It can occur on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders.

Acne's occur when the pores or sebaceous glands get blocked or plugged by sebum (the skin's natural lubricant) or bacteria. This is more likely to occur in people who have greasy skin (and an overabundance of sebum). Hormonal changes can cause this overabundance of sebum, which is why acne is so prevalent among teenagers, but acne can happen long after the teenage years have passed.

The Best Natural Remedies for Treating Acne

Natural acne treatments can be very effective and some of the best acne treatments are simple things people can do at home with the things they may have around the house. People with mild or less severe acne can often solve their problem with a natural acne treatment. Here are some of the best natural treatments for acne.

HERBAL TREATMENTS

A number of herbs can be effective as a natural acne treatment. Try aloe vera, sage, sarsaparilla, yellow dock, burdock, basic, sandalwood or tea tree oil. Herbs are seeped in water and the resulting mixture is applied directly to the affected areas. Neem is also effective in treating a variety of skin disorders. You can buy Neem in leaf powder form. Turmeric is also good for treating acne. You can take it internally or make it into a paste and apply it to your skin. Green tea is also known to be good for people with acne

OTHER NATURAL TREATMENTS

Fruit is one of the best acne treatments. Choose mango, pawpaw, grapefruit or a fruit that has lots of acid. You can apply the fruit directly to your skin or you can use it to make a mask by mashing it into a pulp. You can add oatmeal or egg yolk if you want. Apply it to the skin as a mask and leave for fifteen minutes.

Instead of using a regular toner, try making your own. Cucumber juice, apple cider vinegar and tea tree distilled in mineral water can be very effective toners for people who have acne. Rubbing an ice cube over your face before you tone will help tighten the pores, which will also help prevent acne.

FOOD AND NUTRITION

A good diet is essential for people suffering from acne. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and stay away from fatty and sugary foods. Nuts and seeds are particularly good for acne sufferers. Some of the following foods will assist in the prevention and cure of acne.

Foods containing vitamin A. Carrots are a very good source of vitamin A.
Foods containing zinc. Zinc can be found in raw pumpkin seeds and Brazil nuts.
Green Tea.

VITAMINS AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Some vitamins and nutritional supplements can help prevent acne or help in the healing process. Vitamin A may cause less sebum to be produced, which will result in less acne. Zinc can prevent acne and it can also heal blemishes.

Covering up Acne

Some cosmetic and beauty companies have brought out an acne treatment cover up. These creams are very good as they help heal the acne, while covering it up. It is great for people who need to go out into public, but want to treat their acne at the same time. A natural acne treatment is very effective in treating acne, but most of them are not things that people particularly want to wear on their face outside the house.

Getting an Acne Free Skin Using Laser Treatment

Acne laser treatments may be used to help people with chronic and persistent acne get rid of their acne permanently. This kind of treatment needs to be performed in a doctor's surgery or by a professional dermatologist.Two types of lasers are used. One helps stop the growth of bacteria that causes acne. The second laser shrinks the sebaceous oil glands (so that less sebum is produced and less acne is caused by the overabundance of sebum). A number of treatments will be needed before the acne is cured.

Laser surgery can also be used to get rid of old acne scars. Your doctor may prescribe a cream or another treatment before starting an acne laser treatment.

Conclusion

Even people who follow the right diet and take all the right supplements will still have the occasional breakout. However, with the best acne treatments for your particular problem, the acne should clear and the effects should be minimized. Try to keep at least one natural acne treatment on hand (or in the fridge) so that you are prepared to treat acne as soon as the first spot appears.

Is Your Soap Causing Harm to Your Skin?

2012-03-23T17:20:00.002-07:00

When choosing soap, it is important to choose the right soap for your skin type, whether it is an herbal soap, a handmade soap or a commercial soap. Much commercial soap contains lots of chemicals which can be harmful to skin. A natural herbal soap can be a good alternative. This article contains:

Which type of soap is best suited for oily skin?
Tips on using soaps so they don't harm the skin
What are the disadvantages of industrial soaps?

When choosing soap, it is important to choose the right soap for your skin type, whether it is an herbal soap, a handmade soap or a commercial soap. The following list will help you choose the right soap - herbal, natural or commercial - for your needs.

Dry skin is skin that does not have enough sebum (the skin's natural oil). The best soap for dry skin is a gentle moisturizing soap. People with dry skin should avoid harsh soaps. Good commercial soaps include Olay or Dove, but skin cleansers are a better choice. Natural soaps that contain Aloe Vera, cocoa butter, avocado or vegetable oils are best for dry skin.
Oily skin has too much sebum. It looks shiny and is prone to acne. It needs to be cleaned regularly. Soap is not as damaging for oily skin as it is for dry skin. An antibacterial soap or special cleansing soap is good for oily skin. Look for soaps (or make them yourself) with the following natural ingredients: lavender, chamomile and thyme or tea tree oil. Commercial anti-acne soaps may be beneficial if you suffer from spots or pimples.
Combination skin contains a combination of oily skin and dry skin. Do not use soaps that are specially formulated to treat either dry skin or oily skin. It is hard to limit soap to the area that needs attention. Soaps for dry skin will make the oily areas even oilier and soaps for oily skin will make the dry areas drier. Using special cleansers are fine as they can more easily be used on the affected area. Choose commercial soaps and natural soaps for normal skin. Glycerin soap can be a good soap for combination skin. Be careful when using soap on the dry areas of your face.
Normal skin is not too oily or too dry. Soap should generally be fine for use on normal skin. Do not choose soaps that are specially formulated for dry or oily skin, as they may cause problems. Many commercial soaps and herbal soaps are made for use on normal to oily or dry skin. These products are fine to use.

Soaps to Avoid

It is best to avoid soap altogether if you have a severe skin condition, like psoriasis, dermatitis or eczema. People with dry skin also need to be careful as some soap can be very drying. The following types of soaps may be damaging to the skin on the face and should be avoided.

Soaps those are granular.
Soaps with a high pH or acid-content.
Soaps with lots of chemicals.
Cheap commercial soaps.
Soaps that are designed for a different type of skin than the one you have

Herbal Soaps: Are They Effective?

Much commercial soap contains lots of chemicals which can be harmful to skin. A natural herbal soap can be a good alternative. Soaps containing natural products are healthier for your skin and less likely to have any damaging effect. They are also less likely to provide a trigger for common skin complaints. Commercial soaps also remove the glycerin from soap. Glycerin helps the skin keep in moisture, and so soap that has had the glycerin removed is more drying. Natural soaps usually keep the glycerin in.

Natural soaps also make use of aromatherapy and herbal treatments to provide the best treatment for your skin. Herbs can help treatment skin problems and nourish the skin. Aromatherapy can have a positive effect on physical and emotional health.

When choosing a natural soap, check the ingredients. Some soaps may claim to be natural or herbal, but may in fact contain chemicals and harmful ingredients. They might also claim to contain ingredients such as lavender, when they really contain lavender scented oil. Scented oil is not the same thing as the essential oil and will not produce the same effect.

You can also make your own herbal soaps by using a soap base and adding different herbs and oils. The good thing about homemade soaps is you know exactly what ingredients are contained in the soap.

Tips on Using Soaps that Don't Damage the Skin

When using soap, the following tips will help to prevent damage to the skin.

Do not use body soap (even a body natural soap) on your face. Some soap is only designed for body cleaning. They will damage the skin on the face.
Use a soap that is suitable for your skin.
Pay attention to what the soap does to your skin. If it seems to be having a damaging effect, then stop using it.
Check all ingredients in any soap you buy. Avoid soaps that contain a lot of chemicals.
Do not wash your face too often. Even oily skin, which needs to be kept very clean, should not be washed more than three times a day.
If you have a skin disorder like eczema or psoriasis, check with your doctor or dermatologist what the best type of soap for your skin is.
Keep soap away from the eye area.
Dry by gently patting your skin with a towel. Finish with a moisturizer.

Disadvantages of Commercial Soaps

There are many disadvantages to using commercial soaps. The chemicals used in chemical soaps can dry out your skin and aggravate skin problems. They can be very harsh and cause your skin to age prematurely. Commercial soaps are not recommended for dry skin and problem skin. Even on oily skin and normal skin, they should be used with caution on the face. Harsh chemicals are not good for any face.

Some of the better commercial soaps and soaps that are specially formulated to treat problem areas may not be as harmful. Mild soaps can be fine if they are used with caution. However, these soaps can be expensive. A good mild natural soap can be just as good, without costing as much.

It is best to choose some other type of soap - herbal, natural or organic. Choose soaps that contain natural ingredients that are beneficial for your skin type. Check the ingredients to ensure that all the ingredients are natural. Even dry skin can benefit from an appropriate herbal soap.

Foods and Vitamins to Beautify Your Skin

2012-03-23T17:15:00.002-07:00

When it comes to caring for your skin, vitamins and good nutrition can be just as beneficial as a good skin care treatment. Vitamins are important in keeping your Skin Looking and feeling healthy . They can also help prevent and treat any problem areas and skin disorders. This article discusses:

What are the vitamins that keep your skin healthy?
Which food products/items contain vitamins for a healthy skin?
Learn more on supplements that helps your skin to stay healthy

When it comes to caring for your skin, vitamins and good nutrition can be just as beneficial as a good skin care treatment. Vitamins are important in keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. They can also help prevent and treat any problem areas and skin disorders. A bad diet that is lacking in vitamins can make your skin blotchy and lifeless. When looking at your overall skin care, pay attention to your diet and ensure it includes the right vitamins good for skin care.

Vitamins and Minerals

Here are some of the best minerals and vitamins that can be included in your diet along with other basic healthy skin care tips. Including these skin rejuvenating vitamins in your diet will help keep your skin looking healthy and free from problems.

VITAMIN A

Vitamin A is a very good vitamin for healthy skin. It helps strengthen the skin and repair tissues. It can be taken in foods, as a supplement or as a topical cream. Vitamin A can help prevent dry skin and acne. It can also be used to treat wrinkles.

VITAMIN E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help prevent free radical damage to the skin. Vitamin E is a good vitamin to take when your skin is suffering some damage from the sun or other factors.

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C helps with healing wounds and other damage to the skin. There is some evidence to suggest it may rejuvenate the skin. Vitamin C will also help the immune system fight off illnesses.

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D is an antioxidant that may play a role in skin pigmentation.

VITAMIN B

Vitamin B helps keep your skin tone healthy. It is also a good vitamin for relieving stress, and so it may prevent some of the skin problems (like eczema) that can be caused by stress. There are a number of different vitamins in the vitamin B group.

Vitamin B1 is an antioxidant that helps rid the body of toxins. It can also assist circulation.
Vitamin B2 helps keep the skin healthy. It can also help prevent acne.
Vitamin B3 improves circulation.
Vitamin B5 helps reduce stress.
Vitamin B6 helps keep the immune system healthy.

ZINC

Zinc helps the skin's natural healing process. It is good in preventing the over-production of sebum, which will also help clear up acne. Zinc also helps the immune system.

Foods to Eat for Clear Skin

Skin vitamins can be taken as nutritional supplements or they can be incorporated into your diet. Here are some foods good for your skin.

VITAMIN A

Vitamin A can be found in the following foods:

Eggs
Whole milk
Liver
Carrots
Mango
Spinach
Breakfast cereal

VITAMIN B

Vitamin B can be found in the following foods:

Wheat germ
Oatmeal
Whole wheat
Bran
Whole brown rice
Dairy products
Milk
Liver
Kidney
Fish
Eggs

VITAMIN E

Vitamin E can be found in the following foods:

Almonds
Sunflower seeds
Peanut butter
Hazelnuts
Safflower oil
Spinach
Broccoli
Mango

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C can be found in the following foods:

Oranges
Grapefruit
Mandarins
Lettuce
Spinach
Green peppers
Strawberries
Tomatoes
Cabbage

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D can be found in the following foods.

Milk
Fortified rice
Fortified margarine
Salmon
Tuna
Liver
Cheese

Sunlight can also provide the body with vitamin D.

ZINC

Zinc can be found in the following foods.

Dairy products
Beans and lentils
Yeast
Nuts
Seeds
Cereals
Pumpkin seeds

All of these foods contain good skin vitamins. Foods to eat for clear skin include anything from the list of foods for vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. Vitamin C foods are good foods to tighten skin.

Supplements

Sometimes our diet does not contain all the vitamins and nutrients we need to keep our skin looking healthy. The following dietary supplements can help prevent and treat problems, based on skin type.

Dry skin. Good supplements for people with dry skin include evening primrose oil, vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin B-complex, vitamin B12, vitamin E, zinc and selenium.
Oily skin. Good supplements for people with oily skin include evening primrose oil, vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin B complex, vitamin B12, vitamin E, zinc and flaxseed oil.
Combination skin and Normal skin. Good supplements for people with combination skin and normal skin include evening primrose oil, vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin B complex, vitamin B12, vitamin E and zinc.

Conclusion

Eating vitamins good for skin, along with the right skin care treatment, can help keep your skin looking its very best, as well as reducing and preventing problem areas. The skin vitamins mentioned here are beneficial for everyone who wants healthy, problem-free skin.

Water and Skin Care

2012-03-23T17:06:00.001-07:00

Water plays a big relation in taking care of your skin. Have you ever wondered why does water wrinkle your skin? This is because water has certain elements that react to human skin. You might have heard a number of skincare experts saying that drinking water for your skin would help a lot. Quite true. Water is indeed vital to a beautiful skin. And much of it is because of the very nature of water.

The Nature of Water

Water primarily stimulates the circulation of blood, fluids, and the necessary elements inside our body. Additionally, it also controls and regulates the skin's natural balance. When water is warm, it has the power to hydrate, revitalize, detoxify, and oxygenate the skin. Warm water also gets rid of blackheads and makes large pores smaller. Drinking water makes the body more relaxed and invigorated. It also replaces the moisture lost due to everyday activities. Simply put, these are all the benefits of drinking water for skin.

Why Does Water Wrinkle Your Skin?

Staying underwater or soaked in a bathtub too much causes your skin to wrinkle. It is because the water washes off the sebum, an oily substance produced in the epidermis, which in turn, is the outer layer of the skin. Sebum actually blocks water from entering the skin. But it is washed off when you stay in the water too much and then absorbing water through skin starts. Without sebum, water penetrates the skin causing it to swell. The tip of the fingers and toes are the ones most affected. And it is because these parts of the skin hold water and sebum is abundant there too. But then again, once the absorbed water evaporates, the skin that has been wrinkled by water goes back to its normal form. So the wrinkles to the skin caused by water is really not something to worry about.

The Role of Water in Skin Care

Water keeps the skin hydrated.

Our skin is comprised of 90% water. And so without the right amount of water to keep that level, the skin tends to be unhealthy and dry. In fact, dehydration does not affect the skin alone, but the rest of the body as well, including the vital organs like kidneys and lungs.

Skin cells need water to function.

The skins won't be able to regenerate without adequate water. The body dehydrates easily due to our daily activities. That amount of water lost has to be replaced soon, and that is why the need to drink eight glasses of water everyday is required.

Water keeps the epidermis healthy.

The epidermis is the outer layer of the skin. One of its roles is to keep harmful microorganisms from entering the body through the skin pores. Our pores become larger if there isn't enough water in the skin. So the use of natural remedy dry skin hard water is now becoming popular nowadays.

Water flushes out toxins.

Without water, harmful elements will stay in the body instead of being excreted out properly. And sometimes, if it can't through the normal channels, it would try to get out by some other means like through the skin, nose, or ears. So to keep skin healthy, make sure that you drink enough water.

Water carry nutrients.

Like blood, water facilitates the transport of nutrients inside the body. It keeps every organ healthy, most especially the skin. Water also tones the muscles and prevents the instances of cramping.

Water-based moisturizers remedies dry skin.

If your skin were dry, the best possible solution would be to apply dry skin water, moisturizers, oils, and lotions to it. While you can increase your daily consumption of water to stop your skin from drying, applying them is surely a good complement. You can also use cold water for skin toning.

Water aids in the treatment of skin problems like psoriasis and eczema.

If you unfortunately have developed skin problems like eczema and psoriasis, the best solution is to drink lots of water while treating the disease according to your doctor's prescriptions. With enough water in the body, the healing process becomes faster.

These are the benefits of water in the skin, and the rest of the body. There are some studies identifying water skin irritants, so it is also important to make sure that the water you drink or apply to your skin is absolutely clean and germ-free.

Now you know why does water wrinkle your skin. So, for a healthier skin regimen, make it a point that you are drinking water for your skin everyday. A healthy skin creates a certain glow that makes you look beautiful and younger than you really are. Start that habit. Drink water for a healthier skin!

Look Your Best at Any Age

2012-03-23T16:58:00.003-07:00

A Decade by Decade Beauty Guide

When it comes to health and the rate of aging, we used to think that our choices were limited—it’s in the genes. Today, however, the aging process no longer mirrors that of our parents and grandparents.

With modern scientific modalities and recent advancements in medical aesthetics, there often exists a vast difference between a person’s chronological age and biological age. It can be hard to distinguish a woman in her twenties from a woman in her forties. Unfortunately, the hands of time swing both ways; we may be 45 chronologically, but biologically, our cells may make us appear 55.
Approximately 36 percent of aging is due to factors beyond our control—our genes and heritage—but the rest is up to us. So, what’s the secret to achieving beauty at any age? Good health, quality of life and, of course, great skin care.

20s

Prevention is crucial during this phase of your life. If you didn’t have good habits in your teens, now is the time to start. Sunscreen should be a part of your daily skin care regimen, applied in the form of an SPF moisturizer, in order to prevent premature aging. The body and skin show little change in our twenties, but external factors such as sun exposure, alcohol consumption, poor dietary habits and smoking can have adverse effects on skin down the road. If you prevent damage and protect your skin while in your twenties, your complexion will thank you for the decades to come.

30s

Between career moves, busy lifestyles and starting a family, our thirties can bring on a variety of different stressors. Many women at this age are plagued by adult acne and inflammatory skin con-ditions due to hormonal fluctuations and work-related tension. More evidence of internal change begins to surface as age spots, crow’s feet and fine lines appear around the eyes and mouth, but signs of aging can be curtailed with professional correctives. Undergoing a series of non-wounding peels in conjunction with an at-home treatment regimen of resurfacing products can dramatically reduce the look of blemishes, wrinkles and sun spots, helping you to hold onto your youth.

40s

As we enter our forties, noticeable differences occur as skin begins to lose elasticity. There may be slight sagging around the neck area, and lines that were only visible when you smiled or laughed in your thirties may now be etched into your complexion. Because skin cells take longer to migrate to the surface, encouraging cellular turnover and stimulating collagen production is central to promoting healthier, more youthful looking skin. Incorporating antioxidants into both your diet and skin care routine will assist in preventing further free radical-induced damage. Look for cleansers, exfoliants and serums infused with vitamins A, C and E and load up on fruits, green vegetables, seeds and nuts.

50+

After 50, the skin’s abilities to retain moisture and heal properly are significantly weakened as the body experiences internal changes. Hormonal oscillation and diminished natural reserves in mature and menopausal skin can cause the complexion to appear dry or flaky. Skin care treatments containing essential vitamins, emollients and hormonal regulators such as soy isoflavones and pregnenolone—also believed to play a role in skin immunity and hydration—will aid in replenishing the skin’s lipid barrier to repair tone and texture, and firm sagging skin (now found around the forehead, mouth and eyes) to rebuild definition.

Cleansing, Toning, Moisturizing and Exfoliating

2012-03-23T05:42:00.001-07:00

Why skin care is important?
Why toning is said to be very beneficial for pores?
What are the natural ways to cleanse tone and moisturize the Skin?

Providing the right skin care (including cleansing skin care, facial toning, moisturizing, exfoliation and body cleansing) help keeps your skin looking healthy. Healthy skin looks better, gives you greater confidence and protects the body.

It is important that people choose the right type of skin care for their skin, as this will reduce problem areas and prevent further skin damage from occurring. The right skin care can also help people treat any skin disorders they may have and limit or prevent skin reactions.

Different Methods of Skin Care

Cleansing, toning, moisturizing and exfoliation all serve different purposes and all of them are necessary to keep your skin looking its very best.

CLEANSING

Cleansing removes dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Cleansing skin care is perhaps one of the most important things we can do to help keep our skin looking healthy and beautiful. Without cleansing, our faces would develop a build-up of materials that would make our faces dirty, shiny and dull. The bacteria and dirt on our face would also increase the risk of bacterial infections, leading to skin problems like acne. Cleansing is particularly important for people with oily skin, who have excess oil on their face which attracts dirt and debris.

Cleansing should not just stop with the face. Body cleansing is also important. However, a different type of cleansing may be needed for the body, than the cleansing which is needed for the face.

TONING

Facial toning does a number of things to keep your skin looking healthy. Firstly, it removes traces of dirt and debris that are left after cleansing. It also restores the skin's natural pH balance.

Toning is very beneficial for the pores. It helps tighten them up so that there is less chance of infection and acne. A good toner can tone up the skin and make it appear smoother

MOISTURIZING

Moisturizing helps hydrate the skin and prevent it from further moisture loss. It can also provide a protective barrier to stop moisture from escaping from the skin. Water and many skin care products can strip the skin of moisture. Moisturizing lotion helps replace that loss moisture. It is very important for people with dry skin, who have less sebum (the skin's natural oil) on their skin.

Face masks can also have a moisturizing effect. Moisturizing face masks are very good for people with dry skin who may need some extra moisture and attention.

EXFOLIATING

Exfoliating removes the surface layer of skin, along with any dirt, debris and dead skin cells. It provides a more thorough clean than cleansing. Removing the top layer of skin helps the new healthy skin to appear.

Using natural methods to cleanse, tone and moisturize can often be very beneficial for the skin as natural products contain ingredients that treat the skin, without any of the harsh chemicals often associated with commercial cleansers, toners and moisturizers.

Cleansing

Any vegetable or plant based oil can become a good natural facial cleansing oil. Almond and jojoba oil are particularly good as they nourish the skin as well as clean it. Natural facial cleansing oil is very good for people with oily skin, as oils work better in removing the excess oil from the surface of the skin. A good natural cleanser can also be made with yoghurt. Add a few drops of some essential oil.

Fruit masks can helps cleanse the skin of all impurities. Acid-based fruit (like grapefruit or strawberries) works best. Use it by itself or mix with yoghurt or honey.

Toning

Apple cider vinegar is a good natural alternative to skin toning. Other good natural toners include rose water, witch hazel, lemon juice, tea tree, cucumber juice and tomato juice. They may need to be diluted in water. You can also make your own natural toner by steeping some herbs in water and cooling it in the fridge. Aloe Vera, peppermint, chamomile and lavender are some of the good herbs to put in homemade toners.

Moisturizing

When you know good natural moisturizing ingredients, you can understand how to moisturize skin without commercial moisturizers. Honey, yoghurt and plant-based oils are good moisturizing products. They can be made into special moisturizing masks that are left on your skin for ten minutes. Add some fruit, aloe Vera or herbs. Plant-based oil (like apricot kernel, evening primrose, jojoba, avocado or almond) can also be used as a daily moisturizer.

Exfoliating

For natural skin exfoliation, try baking soda or oatmeal. Mix it into a paste with some water or milk. Apply to your face and scrub off with circular motions. Other good exfoliators include sugar mixed in honey and sea salts mixed in oil.

For a deep pore cleansing facial, give yourself a face sauna first. Add some herbs or essential oils to a bowl of steaming hot water. Place your face over it, with a towel draped over your head. Finish with one of the exfoliators.

Commercial Natural Products

You can also buy some good natural cleansers, toners, moisturizers and exfoliators from your health food shop, pharmacist or cosmetic counter. When choosing a natural product, check the ingredients. Some products will claim to be natural, but will actually contain many chemicals and include few natural ingredients.

Conclusion

Skin care is important, but it doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. Knowing the right type of skin care to provide is the first step. Try different products to find the ones that work best for you. Don't be afraid to use ingredients you have lying around the house. When cleansing your skin, don't forget that body cleansing is almost as important as facial cleansing skin care. Providing the right care will keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful.

Caring for Oily Skin

2012-03-23T05:39:00.001-07:00

Oily skin is caused by over-active glands, which produce too much sebum. Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands. It is necessary as it helps lubricate your skin and carries away dead skin cells. When the skin is oily, too much sebum is being produced. This article tells you:

What are the problems faced by people having oily skin?
How food intake and oily skin are associated?
What causes oily skin?

The right oily skin care is essential for anyone with oily skin. Oily skin does not look healthy and is prone to skin problems like acne. It is important that such skin be given proper treatment for oily skin.

What is oily skin and how is it caused?

Oily skin is caused by over-active glands, which produce too much sebum. Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands. It is necessary as it helps lubricate your skin and carries away dead skin cells. When the skin is oily, too much sebum is being produced. The skin becomes dull and greasy and pores may become clogged.

The extra secretion of sebum can be caused by many factors. Heredity, diet, birth control pills and the wrong cosmetics can all cause oily skin. Hormonal balances can also affect the production of sebum, which is why oily skin is often common in teenagers, pregnant women or women going through menopause.

Problems Faced by People with Oily Skin

People with oily skin often suffer from skin problems, like blemishes, acnes, black heads, white heads and pimples. Enlarged and clogged pores may be a problem. Oily skin often looks dull and shiny. With the right oily skin treatment, it is possible to treat such problems.

How to have less oily skin

Oily skin, and the problems it brings, can be minimized. Thorough cleansing can prevent some of the problems associated with oily skin, as it removes the dirt and dust and stops the pores becoming clogged. As make-up can also clog pores, it is important that all make-up is removed before going to bed. Here are some more tips on how to have less oily skin.

NATURAL METHODS

Natural oily skin care can be very effective. Food intake, proper hydration, herbal care and other natural remedies can all help provide the proper treatment for oily skin.

Food Intake

To improve your oily skin through nutrition, eat plenty of foods that are rich in protein. Include lots of leafy vegetables and fresh fruit. Vitamin B2 can help prevent oily skin, so include good sources of B2 by eating wheat germs, whole grains, beans and nuts.

Cut down on the amount of sugar and fat in your diet, and avoid soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, chocolate and fried food.

Hydration

People sometimes make the mistake that oily skin does not need to be hydrated, but oil is not moisture. Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water. A good moisturizer, that is suited to oily skin, can also help keep your oily skin hydrated.

Herbal Remedies and Other Natural Remedies

Herbs and other natural products contain ingredients that help to provide good oily skin care treatment. Lime juice, cucumber juice and lemon juice are good for oily skin. Apply the juice directly onto your skin, allow it to dry and then wash off with warm water. To reduce the effects of make-up on oily skin, the juice should be left to dry and make-up can be applied directly on top of it.

Witch hazel is a good natural product for absorbing extra oil. Lavender may also be used in oily skin care. You can use it as a mist, in a toner or in a facial sauna. For a facial sauna, parsley and thyme can also be added. For an aromatherapy facial sauna, add lemon, cedarwood or rosemary.

Clay masks are particularly effective in the treatment of oily skin. You can make your own clay mask by mixing green clay power with water or honey. Apply it to your face and then rinse off after fifteen minutes.

Fruit acid masks are very effective in oily skin care. They remove the excess oil and dead skin cells, without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Fruit acid masks can be made at home by applying papaya, mango, grapefruit or any fruit containing acid to the face.

USING ARTIFICIAL CREAMS AND SUPPLEMENTS

When using artificial creams or supplements for oily skin care, it is important to pick products that are suited for treatment for oily skin. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or alcohol. Products that dry out the skin should not be used, as these may cause the skin to compensate by producing more sebum.

It is important that oily skin is kept thoroughly clean. Stay away from harsh cleansers. Instead choose a pure soap, with no artificial additives. Antibacterial cleansing lotions can be effective in cleansing oily skin.

Astringents that contain acetone are good for oily skin, as acetone dissolves oil.

When choosing a moisturizer for oily skin, it is particularly important to choose the right one. Choose a moisturizer that is specifically made for oily skin. Oil-free moisturizers are best. Do not over-apply your moisturizer.

Supplements can assist in oily skin treatment, as they help keep the skin healthy and prevent problems. Evening primrose oil is a good supplement to take for oily skin care. Vitamin A, Vitamin B2 and a Vitamin B complex are also effective.

Conclusion

Providing the right treatment for oily skin may often seem like a difficult task. By making use of natural products and using the right creams and supplements, good oily skin care will keep your skin healthy and any problems will be minimized.

Effective Tips for Caring for Dry Skin

2012-03-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

Dry skin (or xerosis) has a low level of sebum, which is the skin's natural lubricant. As it does not have enough sebum, it dries out easily and is unable to retain the right amount of moisture needed for healthy skin. This article contains:

What causes dry skin?
How artificial creams and supplements help in dealing with dry skin?
How can you make your own beauty mask?

Dry skin care is important as damaged and dry skin needs to receive the proper treatment. Dry skin lotions can help, but there are lots of other things people can do to minimize dry skin and the damage that it does. Here are some effective tips for caring for dry skin.

What Is Dry Skin and How Is It Caused?

Dry skin (or xerosis) has a low level of sebum, which is the skin's natural lubricant. As it does not have enough sebum, it dries out easily and is unable to retain the right amount of moisture needed for healthy skin.

A number of factors may cause dry skin. It is more common in winter when the cold outside and the heat inside contribute in drying up the skin. It can also be caused by hot water or harsh soaps. Poor diet or smoking can also cause or aggravate the problem. Dry skin may also be a symptom of other conditions, including dermatitis, eczema, ichthyoids, psoriasis, an under active thyroid and diabetes. Dry skin becomes more common as people age.

Problems Faced by People with Dry Skin

People with dry skin may find their skin cracks and peels or becomes flaky. Dry skin may look parched and feel tight after washing. It can also become red, irritated and inflamed. Dry itchy skin is a common problem for people with dry skin. In extreme cases, there may be deep fissures that bleed.

Dry skin ages more quickly than other types of skin. Wrinkles and fine lines can often become a problem.

Techniques for Dealing with Dry Skin

There are a number of things you can do for effective dry skin care. Baths and showers should be taken in warm, instead of hot, water, and should be kept as short as possible. Soap should be used sparingly. Mild cleansers and pure soaps are better. When drying your skin, use patting motions and avoid rubbing the skin too much. Try massaging your skin to increase the flow of natural oils.

Because cold and heat exacerbate the problems of dry skin, people with dry skin should protect their face and skin when going out into the wind or sun, and they should always wear a sunscreen.

Exercise, a good diet and enough sleep will all help keep your skin healthy.

NATURAL TECHNIQUES

Instead of using a commercial cleanser, use a vegetable oil like olive oil or almond oil.
Aloe Vera is very good for dry skin and it has healing and soothing properties.
Calendula and comfrey soften the skin. They may be used in a facial sauna.
Cold compresses can help alleviate dry itchy skin. Add a few drops of essential oil.
Milk baths are very effective in the treatment of dry skin on the body. Add powdered milk and almond oil to a warm (not hot) bath.
Herbal teas like chamomile, dandelion, peppermint, borage, fennel, coltsfoot or calendula help improve the skin.
A good home remedy for dry skin is to make your own beauty mask. Combine an egg, honey, olive oil and rosewater. Apply onto your skin and leave it there for fifteen minutes before washing off.
Another home remedy for dry skin is to mash some avocado and apply onto your face. Mashed banana also works well.

Diet and Nutrition

People with dry skin should eat a balanced diet that is rich in protein from vegetable sources and contains plenty of raw foods. Foods that are high in sulfur (like garlic, onions, eggs and asparagus) help keep the skin smooth. Vitamins A and C are good for skin, so foods containing these vitamins (like carrots and apricots) will help keep the skin looking healthy. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they cause the skin to lose fluids.

Vitamins

As well as including vitamins in your diet, vitamins for dry skin can be applied to your face. Products can be bought that include vitamins C and E, which excellent for dry skin care.

Hydration

Ensure your dry skin is kept hydrated. Drink plenty of water (at least eight glasses a day). A humidifier can also help keep your skin moist if the air is dry. Give your face a sauna by filling a bowl with boiling water and putting your face over it. Add some essential oils or herbs. (Chamomile, lavender and peppermint are good in a facial sauna for dry skin.) If you do add herbs, the water can be kept afterwards and used as a herbal toner.

USING ARTIFICIAL CREAMS AND SUPPLEMENTS

When cleaning your body, avoid using harsh soaps, alkaline soaps or products that contain alcohol or detergents. Instead use mild cleansers, mild soaps or natural-pH products.

Moisturizers need to be applied regularly. They should be applied in the morning and at night. Apply liberally, while your skin is damp. Thick greasy moisturizers or oil-based creams are good dry skin lotions. When choosing a moisturizer or lotion, try and find a lotion for dry skin. Ask your pharmacist or beauty consultant for the best lotion for dry skin, depending on your budget. Body oil (or baby oil) can help combat dry itchy skin or severely dry skin. Apply after a bath.

Petroleum jelly is very good in treating dry skin, but it can be messy to use. It is not really suitable for the face, but it is good in the treatment of dry hands. Put it on before going to bed and wear gloves.

For dry itchy skin, inflamed skin or a dry skin rash, there are special creams and lotions that can help solve the problem. Choose the lotion or cream that works best for your particular problem. If the over-the-counter lotions do not work, discuss the problem with your doctor. Some of the dry skin cures your doctor might prescribe include steroids, steroid creams or antihistamine pills. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking this type of medication.

SUPPLEMENTS

Evening primrose oil supplements are good for all skin conditions. Omega 3, antioxidants and multivitamins will also keep your skin looking healthy.

Conclusion

Dry skin care does not have to be difficult. The right dry skin lotion, a good diet and avoiding the things that contribute to causing dry skin can keep your skin healthy.

Tips for Sensitive Skin Care

2012-03-23T05:30:00.000-07:00

Sensitive skin care is more than just choosing the right sensitive Skin care product . Sensitive skin has a low tolerance level to certain products or environmental conditions. People with sensitive skin may react quickly to chemicals, heat or wind by developing red, blotchy and irritated skin. This following form part of this article:

What are the methodologies for dealing with oily skin?
Will fresh fruits and vegetables helps in having a healthy skin?
What is the role of artificial cream and supplements helps in skin care?

Sensitive skin care is more than just choosing the right sensitive skin care product. To provide the best sensitive skin care, you need an overall approach to providing the best possible care.

Sensitive skin has a low tolerance level to certain products or environmental conditions. People with sensitive skin may react quickly to chemicals, heat or wind by developing red, blotchy and irritated skin. Different people have different levels of skin sensitivity. Some people may react to a product, while for others it produces no effect. Similarly, some people may have a very severe reaction, while others only have a mild reaction.

Problems Faced by People with Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin face many problems. The redness, irritation and blotchiness associated with sensitive skin can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. It can be annoying having to avoid everything that may cause sensitive skin to flare up. Providing the right sensitive skin care can be particularly difficult, as many skin products will have a negative effect.

Dealing with Sensitive Skin

NATURAL METHODS

Natural skin care can be an effective way of treating sensitive skin. Natural products are less likely to trigger the reaction that other products may have on sensitive skin. Here are some of the best natural ways to treat sensitive skin.

Food Intake and Hydration

Diet can play a big part in sensitive skin break outs. A healthy diet (containing plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables) will help skin look healthy. People with sensitive skin should pay attention to their diet and take note if any foods seem to trigger a sensitive skin reaction. Even some healthy foods may cause a reaction in some people, so do not discount these when you look at possible triggers. Hot and spicy foods are particularly likely to cause a negative effect.

People with healthy skin should also drink lots of water, which will help keep their skin hydrated. When skin is adequately hydrated, it is healthier and better able to fight off skin irritations.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies are very good for sensitive skin, because they are free from the harsh chemicals that can cause skin problems. Generally, products that contain natural ingredients will be better for your skin and less likely to cause a sensitive skin reaction. Try the following remedies for some special sensitive skin care.

Use almond or jojoba oil to cleanse your face.
Comfrey steeped in water can make a good toner.
Make a facial exfoliate by mixing grapefruit with oatmeal.
Make a face mask out of fruit.
Cucumber and yoghurt also makes a good face mask for sensitive skin.
Licorice is a good product for sensitive skin. Look for skin care products that contain licorice.
Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help prevent sensitive skin reactions.
Aloe Vera can soothe skin that is red, irritated and blotchy. Apply directly to the skin.

Even when using natural products, people with sensitive skin need to be careful. As some sensitive skin reactions are caused by allergies, even organic products may cause an adverse reaction in someone. Check every product on a small area of your skin first, and stop using a product if it seems to be triggering the symptoms associated with sensitive skin.

SKIN CARE TIPS FROM THE TOP

2012-03-23T04:56:00.001-07:00

From the Experts:

Top Skin Care Tips

When the Skin academy presenters were asked for their top skin care tips,the responses offered a glimpse at the kind of expert care that dermatologists provide their patients every day. These include:

• Use Soap on Select Areas of the Body to Avoid Dryness – “Unless
you have really oily skin, because you are a teenager or work with oils or
gases, you do not need soap to get yourself clean. Pure water does the
job to get you clean. However, you do need to use soap on your face,

under your arms, and in the groin area. As you get older, the use of soap
on the rest of your body can unnecessarily dry your skin.” – Brian B.
Adams, MD, MPH, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology, University
of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio; director of dermatology, Veterans
Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.

• Don’t Smoke! It Causes Wrinkles – “Quit smoking or, better yet, don’t
even start! More and more young people are smoking and doing so to
relieve stress, but it’s bad for your skin and causes wrinkles. Deep-set
wrinkles will appear around your mouth from puckering, your skin will be
dehydrated and dull, and you may experience premature aging.” – Flor A.
Mayoral, MD, FAAD, clinical instructor, departments of dermatology and
cutaneous surgery, University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
Fla.

• Wear Sunscreen! It Prevents Wrinkles – “Use sunscreen every day,
preferably one with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 that
provides broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and
ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Today, many skin care products contain
sunscreen and are multifunctional, which allows you to get many skin
benefits from one application. This saves time and money. For example,
to protect and maintain healthy skin, use a daily facial moisturizer
containing sunscreen. You also can find body lotions that contain
sunscreen. These products can help hydrate and protect your skin,
especially areas of your body that are sun-exposed throughout the day –
like your hands.” – Sandra I. Read, MD, FAAD, instructor of dermatology,
Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C.

• Your Skin Reflects What You Eat – “What you apply to your skin helps
give it a healthy, radiant glow, but remember what you put into your body
is just as important. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can
make a real difference in the appearance of your skin.” – Susan C. Taylor,
MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology, College of
Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, N.Y.; clinical
assistant professor of dermatology and associate faculty, School of
Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pa.

• Do As Little As Possible to Your Hair – “When it comes to hair care,
less is more. Using unnecessary products or subjecting the hair to
repeated procedures – such as perms, coloring, waving or straightening –
can damage the hair and lead to breakage. Although women use these
things to improve the cosmetic appearance of their hair, in the long run
they will inevitably cause the hair to lose some of its natural luster and
look unhealthy. I advise my patients to do as little as possible to their hair,
which will help keep it healthy.” – Zoe D. Draelos, MD, FAAD, private
practice, High Point, N.C.

• Dermatologists Can Help Turn Back the Hands of Time –
“Dermatologists can now use a combination of procedures to give a nonsurgical
facelift. For many people in their 40s, 50s and even 60s,
combining laser and other light-energy treatments with botulinum toxin
and fillers can take years off their appearance while maintaining a natural,
youthful look using non-invasive procedures. Some procedures, such as
photodynamic therapy, can even remove pre-cancerous growths –
improving the health of the skin.” – Arielle N.B. Kauvar, MD, FAAD, clinical
associate professor of dermatology, New York University School of
Medicine, New York, N.Y.

Specialized Training Equals Unmatched Care
As we age, genetic and environmental factors – such as sun exposure or
smoking – can begin to take a toll on the skin. When the appearance of laugh
lines, crow’s feet and sun spots create little to smile about, people often seek out
cosmetic procedures to help turn back the hands of time.

“Although the scope of skin care has expanded tremendously in recent
years, with it has come an increasing number of unqualified practitioners who are
not properly trained or do not have the medical expertise to treat the skin,” said
Dr. Kauvar. “It is vital for patients to select a qualified physician to ensure a safe
and effective skin care procedure.”

In addition to earning a medical degree and completing an internship, Dr.
Kauvar explained that dermatologists receive three more years of specialty
training in the medical, surgical and cosmetic care of the skin, hair and nails.
This intensive residency training includes hands-on instruction in
dermatopathology, the study of skin disease through the examination of skin biopsies, and dermatologic surgery. Some dermatologic surgeons also
participate in post-graduate surgical fellowships lasting one to two years.
To assist patients in choosing a qualified physician, the Academy
recommends that patients should ask the following questions:

• What are the doctor’s credentials? Is he/she a board-certified
dermatologist or other appropriately trained surgeon? Ask to see the
doctor’s credentials.
• How many procedures has the physician performed?
• What results can be expected? How long is the recuperation period? For
cosmetic procedures, ask to see before and after photos of the physician’s
previous patients.
• What are the risks, if any, of the procedure or treatment?
• Where is the procedure typically performed?
• What is the cost?

“Patients who are well informed and ask questions are on the right track to
experience a successful treatment outcome,” said Dr. Kauvar.