Clean healthy skin, free of dirt & oil with makeup removers….

Makeup removers are important for clean skin. In Europe, women thought for ages that water was bad for the skin as a makeup remover. In France some women still think that using tissue and make up removers will prevent your skin from drying. Most women with normal skin should use a cleanser at night to remove makeup, cellular debris and the grime of the day. Although a rinse-off cleanser will cut through most face makeup, eye makeup can be a lot harder to remove and requires a product with a lot of oil. Makeup removers or cosmetic make up remover is a must to have around. Stubborn eye makeup requires a gentle solvent that is removes mascara and rinses off easily.

In order to use your makeup removers properly, the best way to remove makeup is to shake a few drops of make up remover on a cotton ball and dap away. If you need an oil-free product there are inexpensive cosmetic remover products available that work really well in removing dirt and oil. When removing your makeup always use a very gentle touch, use a delicate, gliding movement when caring for your skin to avoid wear and tear. By removing your makeup regularly your skin will look healthy and will protect its natural tone.

Lots of people have them, but in secrecy of course. No one wants to be the first one to say “hey guys I have hemorrhoids”. Now one thing I do want to make clear is this, sure it can be embarrassing talking to your friends about it, but please don’t be foolish enough not to go to the doctor. You need to go to the doctor to get a proper diagnoses. Sometimes it can make a difference between life or death. Because what you might think is hemorrhoids might actually be cancer.

That’s right! colon cancer may have similar symptoms as hemorrhoids such as bleeding. So that’s why it is extremely important to go see a doctor.

Most hemorrhoids can be treated naturally without the need of surgery some may require surgery. It all depends on the severity of your hemorrhoids.

Here are some natural ways to treat hemorrhoids:

1. Eat More Fiber.
2. Don’t Strain During Bowel Movement
3. Drink More Water.
4. Go Out For A Jog
5. Loose Weight.

All these may help you reduce the risk of getting hemorrhoids or eliminate them. 1. Fiber helps to soften your stool so the wait moves out much easier. 2. Straining is bad for hemorrhoids so don’t do it, take your time when using the restroom. 3. Water will help alongside fiber. 4 & 5. Exercise – loosing weight is important because it can reduce the pressure that is put on the anal veins.

Walk 10 Minutes a Day and Increase Your Fitness Level Old thinking was to work out in a sweat-filled gym for hours a day. No pain, no gain. New studies show that even short bouts of activity can increase your fitness level, especially if you’re new at working out.

Park and Walk
Whenever you have an errand, park your car as far away as you can handle and walk to the store. At the mall, park at the farthest end and walk the length of the mall. Use every opportunity to walk. At the end of the day, it all adds up to better fitness.

Crunch in Bed
Before you even get out of bed in the morning, do 10 stomach crunches while lying flat on your mattress. Increase daily by one until you get up to 100. Think you’ll never get there? Try it. You may eventually have to set your clock to wake up 15 minutes earlier, a small price to pay for a flatter stomach.

The benefits of smoking cessation are clear: only 20 minutes after a smoker’s last cigarette, blood pressure and heart rate start to return to normal. Yet millions of smokers find it virtually impossible to quit. What are the best long-term solutions?

Nicotine addiction is “highly underrated”. So bad is it for some that the addiction has been likened to the one of heroin, says Prof Chris Bolliger, pulmonary expert from the University of Stellenbosch’s (US) Faculty of Health Sciences.

There are more factors involved in smoking addiction than mere nicotine addiction and these factors make smoking cessation a complex and challenging process.

Research has shown that most committed ex-smokers stick to their resolution after they’ve managed to abstain for at least one year.

According to a study conducted by Boston University’s School of Dental Medicine, only two to four percent of ex-smokers generally pick up the habit again each year after the initial two-year period.

The very best results, yet to be scientifically verified, indicate a maximum success rate of 50 percent after six months, an estimated 35 percent after one year, and an estimated 30 percent after two years.

Some of the options available that may lead to a long-term solution, include nicotine replacement therapy (gum, inhaler or patches), the drug Zyban, a combination of the above, the Smokenders programme, or quitting all by yourself. Choose the one that suits you best.

1. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
According to Prof Bolliger, any form of NRT increases the success rate of a smoking cessation programme. All the different types of NRT have been shown to be effective, with little or no side-effects.

NRT can be regarded as a temporary solution that helps smokers get past the first hurdle on their journey to long-term smoking cessation.

A tip for ex-smokers: Always carry a batch of gum or another type of NRT with you while you travel. “The urge could come at any time,” says Bolliger.

2. Zyban alone
The antidepressant Zyban (bupropion) is the latest aid in smoking cessation. The medication seems to increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to an enhanced feeling of pleasure.

Not only has buproprion been an effective tool in helping many smokers quit, but it seems to prevent relapse, according to researchers from the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center. Unfortunately, the relapse-free period did not persist. At the end of the first year, 55% of the Zyban group in the Mayo Clinic study were still smoke-free, but two years later, similar numbers of the Zyban and non-Zyban groups had relapsed.

Longer-term treatment of bupropion may prevent relapse, but more research on the long-term benefits of Zyban is necessary before definite conclusions can be drawn.

People who should not take Zyban include:

• people with seizure disorders such as epilepsy,
• those who have shown an allergic response to bupropion,
• people with a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia, anorexia nervosa or bipolar disorder,
• people with a liver disorder,
• those with kidney problems,
• those with heart problems,
• those with hypertension,
• those with head injury,
• people who have a brain or spinal column tumour,
• diabetics,
• people using alcohol or benzodiazipine sleeping tablets.

Zyban is only available on prescription.

3. Combination therapy
Combination therapy, which involves counselling, the simultaneous administration of NRT (patches and/or gum) and/or the drug Zyban, seems to be an effective solution for many smokers. Preliminary research results indicate a 50 percent six-month success rate for combination therapy.

The dosage and usage of NRT and/or Zyban vary according to the individual. The usual recommendation is to take NRT and/or Zyban for three months – then you either make it or you don’t. If you don’t make it, it’s not useful to try again immediately. Accept it and have another go in six months’ time, is Bolliger’s advice.

Counselling forms an integral part of the Stop Project, a smoking cessation programme that is run at the US Faculty of Health Sciences.

4. Smokenders’ behavioural changes
Some experts do not regard NRT alone as a long-term solution, but as a temporary replacement. This replacement method doesn’t address the core psychological factors involved in smoking addiction.

According to Mercia Axon, managing director of Smokenders, nicotine addiction is just one aspect of smoking addiction. This factor is being blown out of proportion, she says. The focus for long-term smoking cessation should be on behavioural changes.

“Most smokers will recognise that the emotional bond with their cigarettes is the biggest issue. Our programme gives people a stress management tool and helps them to reconstruct their emotional support system,” says Axon.

The international Smokenders group specifically deals with the emotional and psychological aspects involved in smoking. These factors are addressed during seven group sessions with clients. Long-term success is linked to appropriate ways of managing emotions and stress – without cigarettes. The first six months is the most difficult period for many smokers. Clients who feel the urge to light up during this period should contact their counsellors immediately, Axon advises.

The group claims that they have a 92 percent success rate after a one-year period and a 70 percent to 75 percent success rate after a period of five years.

Bolliger, however, queries the high success rates of some smoking cessation programmes. He speculates that inaccurate feedback from clients may be boosting the figures.

5. Kicking the habit on your own
Quitting all by yourself is not easy, but not impossible.

The biggest reason for relapse, in general, is that the quitter feels anxious about being without his cigarettes. Other reasons include missing the pleasure of smoking, feeling pressurised by family members or friends who smoke or feeling addicted. Men who drank more than five alcoholic drinks a day were more likely to relapse. Drinking more than six cups of coffee daily, also increases the risk for relapse.

These findings by the Boston researchers suggest that stress management techniques, like exercise or yoga, can play an important role in long-term success, whether you want to stop by yourself or join a programme.

People who are committed to stop smoking should make it easier for themselves by monitoring their diets to prevent weight gain and cutting back on excess alcohol and caffeine intake to limit the risk of relapse.

“Whatever works is fine,” Bolliger says. “In the end, most people stop by themselves.”

However, today bald is considered as beautiful; so for most men this would in reality be a fashion statement. But for those who are still a little sensitive about their thinning, receding, or a hairless head of hair, my advice to these young men would be that they must never:

• Try to hide their bald pate with a comb-over; this looks really offensive even though you may at the time feel that it can boost your manliness and mask your scanty locks; a simple breeze could be your undoing.
• Wear a toupee because doing that on a day to day basis is just not going to be easy; so don’t start something that can become a bother.
• Wear hair plugs because this again would be difficult to maintain consistently.
• Make the mistake of combing their hair backwards; this style exposes the forehead and draws attention to the decline of hair.
• Grow your hair longer at the rear to compensate for what is lacking at the top; this imbalance draws even more attention to the scalp as well as your baldness.
• Use gel even though you might be tempted to do so because gel groups your hair and the scalp is revealed.

There is no magic treatment for baldness, and medical therapies available on the market may or may not curb hair loss. Hair transplants are a good option but they can be expensive. All you need to do is be happy and confident about yourself so that you project a positive self image.

In a nutshell male pattern baldness is a common type of baldness amongst men. Genes and hormones play a major role in it and baldness amongst men is increasing at an alarming rate, so much so that many young men are also losing their hair. Medical therapies and oral pills like Propecia are available for people who want to treat male pattern baldness to enhance their appearance.

#1 Keep it clean.

Men have approximately 15% oilier skin and significantly larger pores than women do. Basically, this means you get dirtier. It is very important; no matter what skin type you have, to clean your face every day. Deep cleansing is important. It keeps pores clear, skin healthy and you looking good.

Cleansing products should be as chemical-free as possible. Deodorant soaps shouldn’t be used on your face. They cleanse with harsh ingredients and leave a detergent film behind. This may irritate your skin and will clog your pores. Go natural.

A good scrub is essential for healthy clean skin. It will remove dead cells and smooth the surface of your face. The scrub should be strong without being damaging. Stay away from scrubs that contain rough elements like ground bits of nut or seed extracts. They will tear and damage the skin. A good scrub will invigorate you, not hurt you.

Moisturizing is a necessity. Again, the product with the least amount of chemical additives is the best. Always use a light moisturizer on your face after cleansing and shaving and don’t forget your neck!

For an intensive moisture treatment use pure vitamin E, or aloe vera oil. It is available in liquid form, or just break open a capsule and apply the oil directly to the skin. This is a great under eye treatment. Remember it is very important to moisturize this sensitive area of the face. It is one of the first places to show age because the under eye skin secretes no necessary oils on its own.

#2 Keep it toned.

Because men are outside more than women are, environmental debris and pollutants are more a factor to their skin’s health. Toning helps keep the skin clear and firm.

As skin ages, it needs to work harder to maintain its elasticity. Astringents and toners with glycolic or alpha hydroxy acids work the best for toning the face. These acids actually can reduce the pore size, and help avoid ingrown hairs. They are aggressive and have quick results. Remember to look for a product that is not photosensitive (sensitive to light).

#3 Treat your skin.

Depending on your skin type (oily, dry or combination) and the time of year, there are different products that treat and enhance your skin. Different treatments will have very different results. It is important to know your skin’s needs.

All types of skin need to be exfoliated. This is the removal of dead skin cells that form daily. This is an essential part of skin treatment.

After shaving, you need to moisturize with a product that has absolutely no alcohol in it. Avoid heavy fragrant after-shave products too, as they can irritate the skin.

Skin that is too shiny doesn’t look healthy, just greasy. Blot the excess oils away. Blotting papers or a light powder that will give you a more natural finish, are both good options to try.

Don’t forget about your lips. Find a balm that has an SPF of at least 15 in it. Peppermint oil has a nice feel and keeps the lips looking luscious.

#4 Protect your skin.
Healthy skin is young looking skin. There are preventative techniques that can promote the best skin possible and keep it looking its best longer. Remember that your skin is a mirror of your overall body health.

Here are the key techniques:

* Avoid over exposure to the sun.
Sun damage leads to hyperpigmentation (brown spots) which can develop into serious skin disease. Excessive exposure can also exaggerate and thicken fine lines. Use an SPF 15 or higher on all exposed skin, especially on your face.
* Stay in shape.
Exercise promotes capillary functioning which can decrease premature aging. It also increases oxygen to the tissues which keeps skin looking young.
* Eat right.
Keep vitamins such as C and E in your diet regimen.
* Everything in moderation.
Too much of anything is never a good idea. Stay away from excessive alcohol, smoking, fatigue and stress. Not only can these factors lead to premature aging; they also decrease facial circulation making you look older.

Simple Tips On How People With Acne Should Care for Their Skin!

Acne Skin Care – One the simplest but often neglected things you can do to care for acne skin (aka zits) is simply….”washing daily”. This should be done prior to applying any makeup or medications.

Cleansing is important for the long-term health of your skin and to get rid of pimples or zits. It reduces bacteria, keeps pore ducts open, and exfoliates the surface skin cells.

For facial skin care, always use a gentle cleanser and wash your face twice daily. Follow up with a toner and moisturizer, and use an exfoliating scrub or mask weekly. Here are a few simple easy to follow tips to keep your skin looking clear,soft and beautiful. Free of pimples and zits.

Avoid Frequent Handing of your Skin

Please avoid constantly squeezing, picking and especially poping zits. We know it’s tempting, especially when you’re going on a date or nice evening out. By poping those zits, you are likely to:

Make your acne worse by infecting the surrounding areas

Develop scars and dark blotches

Do more damage than good

Caring for Oily Skin

There is no way to completely prevent oily skin. Howerver, following these carefully selected tips will keep the oil and acne under control.

- Oil and dirt build up on the skin contribute to clogging of the pores. Resulting in pimples and zits, therefore proper washing is a good way to keep things under control. For best skin care result,avoid harsh soap, Cleansers and extremely hot water as these can lead to more irritation.

Use a mild cleanser that cleans without drying

Watch your diet. I can’t have chocolate! you ask? Don’t worry there is no proven link between chocolate and Acne breakouts. Howerver, some doctors suggest avoid eating foods rich in Iodine (such as fish, iodized salt)

Last but not Least RELAX Medical studies have shown that stress can cause the body to produce more androgens. Which in turn can increase sebum (oil) production leading to acne flare-ups(Zits).

Acne Skin Care – Choosing Makeup

When being treated for acne skin care, you may need to change some of the cosmetics you use. All cosmetics should be oil free to be most effective for acne skin care

It may be hard to apply foundation evenly during the first few weeks of treatment because the skin may be red or scaly, particularly with the use of topical tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide. Products that are labeled as noncomedogenic (do not promote the formation of closed pores) should be used; in some people, however, even these products may cause acne. So be careful with makeup.

Source: acedia.info

Yoga has shown some beneficial results in curing diabetes. The yoga exercises that are prescribed for curing diabetes is different from hatha yoga exercise because it involves positions tailored to treat certain conditions, as well as meditation, relaxation and stretching exercises.

One of the studies conducted to cure diabetes was the one set up by the Yoga Biomedical Trust, founded in 1982 by biochemist Dr Robin Monro, and an Indian yoga research foundation which discovered that practicing yoga for 30 minutes a day for one month helped reduce blood glucose levels in some diabetics.

The yoga patients took part in one or two 90-minute sessions a week and were asked to practice at home. The classes included the specific yoga exercises of the spinal twist, the bow and abdominal breathing.

At the end of the 12 weeks blood sugar levels fell significantly in all patients in the group and were slightly raised in a control group which had not joined in the yoga sessions. Three yoga students managed to reduce their medication, including one man who had not changed his drug regime for 20 years.

It has been known for a long time that exercise is helpful for diabetics. Yoga therapy may help reduce stress levels which could play a part in maturity onset diabetes. But one drawback is that some patients would find it hard to keep up the regular sessions needed to sustain the benefit. All the patients said they would like to see these classes set up on a permanent basis but we don’t have the money.

It is not necessarily the exercise component of the yoga therapy package which is most important, because there is not enough physical exercise to account for the changes, but stress reduction has a lot to do with it. Stress hormones increase sugar levels in the blood. People also benefit from the stabilization of their moods which yoga brings, an increased feeling of well-being and a feeling of being more in control, which may help with their diet control.

Source: acedia

Physical activity” is usually regarded as the pursuit of exercising the muscles, tendons and joints of the body, and rarely thought of as benefiting our internal organs (outside of the heart).  But this is a limited viewpoint as effective fitness can have a profound impact all of our vital organs, especially the brain.

Researchers now believe that we can work-out our brains by adopting many of the same habits that sustain a healthy body, from focusing on good nutrition and physical fitness to managing stress.

This is important for us because the well-maintained brain is quicker, smarter, less forgetful, and less prone to age-related decline.  Here are several ways to treat the brain real good:

FOOD CHOICES

Roughly 50-60% of the brain’s overall weight is pure fat (the rest of it is a mix of protein and carbohydrates).  The brain uses fat as insulation for its billions of nerve cells.  The better insulated a cell, the faster it sends messages and the speedier your thinking.

For this reason, fats are excellent food for the brain.  But, all fats are not created equal, and it is necessary to educate yourself on which fats will serve the functionality of the brain best.  As a general rule, any source of omega-3 fats such as walnuts, flaxseed, flaxseed oil or dark, leafy green vegetables will help the brain run smoothly.

However, FISH provides the brain with its favorite form of fat: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).  According to David Perlmutter, co author of The Better Brain Book, “DHA is far and away the most important nutrient for brain health”.  Salmon and Anchovies are excellent sources of DHA.

RELAXATION

Chronic stress takes a heavy toll on the brain because stress hormones (such as corticosteroids) contribute to a general environment of inflammation and attack the brain’s memory center, the hippocampus.

According to researchers, stress is most damaging when you let it eat away at you.  Therefore, it is extremely beneficial to find a way to do something about it.  Deep breathing is an excellent way to relax, as is the practice of meditation which has long been known to alter brain waves.

In fact, recent studies have shown that meditation can change the physical structure of the brain (in a positive way).  Therefore, our thoughts DO play a major role when it comes to the health of our brain.

ANTIOXIDANTS

The brain produces more free radicals- highly reactive cells that contribute to cell damage- than any other organ.  Antioxidants are the body’s clean-up crew, and work around the clock to scrub the body clean of free radicals.  They are found primarily in fruits and vegetables, and are in great abundance in berries (especially blueberries and Goji berries).

EXERCISE

Working up a sweat is critical for brain health.  “Across the board, exercise increases brain function, memory retention and other key areas of cognition up to 20 percent” says Arthur D. Kramer, PhD, neuroscientist at the University of Illinois.

The brain accounts for only 2% of the body’s weight, but accounts for 15% of its blood flow, and regular exercise keeps the brain’s arteries open and unclogged.  New research is suggesting that exercise may actually encourage the brain to make new connections between neurons and build new vascular structures. 

Bottom line, get on that treadmill and lift some weights—it’s good for your brain!

REFINED SUGARS

The brain needs sugar (glucose) for energy.  However, it prefers a nice steady and natural supply of it- the kind you find in fruits and vegetables- not in the refined sugars heaped in energy drinks and candy. 

High sugar foods send a tidal wave of glucose crashing into the bloodstream, overwhelming the body’s ability to store balance.  Habitual ingestion of simple carbs and processed foods causes chronic inflammation, type-2 diabetes, and host of other health problems. 

Needless to say, none of this is good for the brain and it is great practice to limit your intake of refined sugars.

Purposefully flexing the brain muscle through physical activity, proper nutrition, and deep relaxation is a great way to live a longer and healthier life!