Month: July 2014

Superfoods – The Cucumber

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Superfoods

We’ve all heard about Superfoods…they’re the wonder stuff that can fight infections, beat the ageing process and encourage cell regeneration and healing. It’s not a joke…some foods have almost magical properties which if you’re interested in nutrition and in eating well you should learn to harness for your own good.

So called Superfoods are always natural….never processed and they are stuffed full of nutrients which work together to ensure that the food is powerful in terms of many positive effects.

The Cucumber

Cucumbers fall into the Superfood category and they’re thought to be particularly good for the skin, the liver and kidneys and the joints. They are full of electrolytes and phytonutrients which are what ensure that they give you energy. Not only that but they’re also loaded with silica a mineral which is essential for healthy connective tissue in muscles, cartilage and bones and they are full of ionic potassium, vitamin C and magnesium!

Recent research has linked the consumption of cucumbers with reduced risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer in addition to cardiovascular disease.

Skin matters

As mentioned above, cucumbers are excellent for connective tissues which includes skin but that also means that they can be applied topically to improve your skin’s condition. The presence of ascorbic acid within cucumbers are what makes them excellent at calming down swollen or sore and tired eyes and they’re also great for sunburn and inflammation in general. If you suffer from water retention, cut some slices of cucumber and place them in the areas most affected and watch the magic at work!

If you are planning to apply cucumber topically it is important to seek out organic varieties; many cucumbers on the high street will have been exposed to pesticides and that’s not something you want on your skin. If you can’t find organic, then remove the skin and use them skinless.

Is there anything this amazing vegetable can’t do? The best thing about cucumbers is that they’re so easy to include in your diet…add a few slices to the side of any meal and they won’t be out of place. Dice them into salads, cut them into sticks to serve as a snack; they’re tasty, inexpensive and amazingly healthy…one of our most powerful Superfoods!

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How to Remove Acne Scars

The scars left by acne can cause just as much misery as the acne itself. People who have suffered from this upsetting skin condition often find that even when they have rid themselves of the spots, they have sustained damage to their skin thanks to the:

  • deep pustules,
  • papules,
  • nodules
  • or cysts

Acne Scars Can be Treated

Some people mistakenly believe that acne scars cannot be removed and continue to live with them, struggling to find makeup which will reduce redness and cover up the pits and uneven skin left behind.

The scars from acne can affect sufferer’s day to day lives to such an extent that social lives shrink, self consciousness takes over and an endless round of looking for the ultimate scar removal cream begins.

Bright, clear skin is a sign of youth and health. It’s natural that everyone should want this; acne need not mean that you’re left with damaged or uneven skin. There are many excellent treatments out there for ridding yourself of all traces of acne and one of the most impressive is that of Medical Microdermabrasion.

This treatment is as its name would suggest, a highly controlled and effective way of “resurfacing” the skin.

 

acne model

 

How Does Microdermabrasion Work?

Medical Microdermabrasion consists of a thorough and deep exfoliation using a specialist diamond treatment head which allows a unique serum to penetrate deep into the dermis. The combination of abrasion and the special formulation which is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, allows for a real recovery for damaged skin. The upper layer of skin is not left red or sore and life can continue as normal after treatment so it’s a very convenient treatment for busy people.

An Effective Acne Scar Treatment

If you’re thinking of an effective solution for acne scars then a course of Medical Microdermabrasion could be just what you need. While it acts as a one-off skin freshener for those without skin damage,for those who do have uneven skin tone, discolouration or scars it can be an ongoing treatment which will eventually rid you of the evidence of acne.

For scarred skin a course of treatment is usually recommended and this will give the treatment time to really work…getting into those deeper layers of damage and ousting the rough, uneven or pitted skin which is the cause of so much misery for many people.

Look into Medical Microdermabrasion and say goodbye to damaged skin…your skin can recover from acne.

Avoid the Dreaded Pregnancy Stretch Marks

It’s a sad fact that one of the first things many women think of when they realise they’re pregnant is “Oh no! I’ll get stretch marks!”. This preoccupation with the physical changes which are wrought on a body during pregnancy is only natural. Nobody particularly likes change and especially when it’s us doing the changing! Between 75% and 95% of women will develop stretch marks during pregnancy and because they are partly caused by hormonal changes in addition of course to the stretching of the skin, there is some inevitability involved in them. However there are certain tactics which you can try in order to minimize the risk of the dreaded pregnancy stretch marks as well as very advanced laser techniques designed specifically for the removal of stretch marks.

Continue reading “Avoid the Dreaded Pregnancy Stretch Marks”

The Top Ten Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Getting A Tattoo

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Should I Get A Tattoo?

The question of whether or not to get a tattoo is one which has crossed the minds of many people from all walks of life. As tattoos have become more socially acceptable…not just something seen on sailors…people of all classes and backgrounds can be seen to be sporting ink proudly. The issue is of course that while they can look amazing, they’re very, very permanent! – although laser tattoo removal is getting better these days.

tattoo removal

There are sadly many people who live to regret their tattoos and spend their summers hiding in long sleeves and trousers…all due to a poor decision made in haste! If you have tattoos you regret then you may be thinking that it’s too late for you to ask questions! However you can seek help to get your unloved artwork removed; laser tattoo removal is extremely advanced these days and many people report barely any scar evidence in the areas treated.

So before you take the plunge, consider these questions…they could save you a lifetime of regret!

1. What Do I Want To Get A Tattoo For?

This might seem like a very simplistic question…and it is! The reasons behind your desire to get a tattoo are what will ultimately tell you if you’re making the correct decision. For example if you’re a young male and you think it might make you look a bit “tougher” or a bit more “experienced” then really think again.

Tattoos aren’t there to make you look tough…they’re not there to make you seem like a man of the world…they should be there for a solid reason and once you’re over 40 you will not be concerned with appearing tough or worldly because you will be! If you’re a young woman and the reason is to look “sexy” think again! When you’re past a certain age, that band of flowers round your ankle won’t serve you at all!

2. Is It For Emotional Reasons?

If you want a tattoo to commemorate a loved-one who has passed away then all well and good. This is a solid reason for a tattoo and such “memorial tattoos” can often really help people who are grieving. However…if it’s to show the world that you’re in love then don’t do it! Tattoo artists are regularly approached by people needing cover-up jobs on tattoos which feature ex fiancés and ex partners and cover-ups are tough to do well.

3. Is It In A Prominent Position?

Let’s just imagine that you want a tattoo on your neck or your forearm. You’ve thought it over and this is where you feel the design you want will look best. Think hard and think further ahead. Most people settle down to very respectable lives once they reach a certain age and a tattoo of Bart Simpson on your chest might not go down well when you want a promotion.

4. What Shall I Get?

If you’re not sure or can’t think of anything that you really want then don’t get a tattoo. Scraping round for images of generic flowers, birds, fairies or cartoon characters is only going to lead to regret. If however you have always wanted the same image and this hasn’t changed for some time, then you’re in a good position to choose a tattoo that you’ll always love.

5. What About My Changing Body?

This question is for both sexes but especially for women. If you haven’t yet had children then you really don’t want a tattoo on your stomach or breasts. Your body shape will change dramatically both during and after birth and that tattoo will end up distorted.

Also if you think of having laser hair removal you won’t be able to have it over a tattoo. (Advice – get laser hair removal before your tattoo!!!! so the area is hair free)

6. Have I Checked Out The Tattooist Properly?

Spotting a tattoo parlour and walking in on a whim is not a good way to get tattooed. Do your research; find an artist whose work you really admire. Visit some tattoo shows to meet and chat to artists, then you’re more likely to be inspired and find an artist that suits your needs.

7. Can I Speak The Language?

If you’re wanting to get a tattoo of a poem or a saying in Chinese script which is a very popular route to take then please take care to get the lettering right! There’s nothing worse than badly written or incorrect tattoo script.

8. Can I Afford It?

Ordering a huge back piece which will take many visits to complete is one thing but the cost of such a piece is considerable and you will need to make sure that you can pay for all of the sittings.

9. What Are My Future Career Plans?

If you’re thinking “High Court Judge” or “Politician” then do you really want a tattoo?

10. Can I Take The Pain?

Many people are shocked at just how painful tattoos are. Some people faint in the chair as their tattoo is being done and there’s no exaggeration here, it really does hurt a lot! If you think you can stand the pain then go for it!

Tattoos are a controversial thing and deciding to get one is no easy decision. If you’re absolutely sure that you want a tattoo do take time to think about what you’re doing…it’s a permanent fixture and although today’s tattoo removal techniques are extremely advanced, it’s better not to get into a situation where you need your tattoo taken off!

If you already have tattoos which you’re less than fond of, don’t live with them any longer than you need to.

Speak to a laser clinic about your options; even black, green and blue ink can be successfully removed today whereas in the very recent past these colours were notoriously difficult to remove.

Heavy and colourful tattoos are also treatable even if they are very large pieces. Don’t despair if you’ve gone under the needle and lived to regret it…there is help out there![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Laser Hair Removal – What You Need To Know

Laser hair removal has grown in popularity over the last ten years but for some people it’s still a mystery. They hear of people undergoing treatment for the removal of unwanted hair but assume it’s hugely expensive or just for those with health or hormonal problems which result in an overgrowth of hair in unwanted places.

However the truth is that many people, both male and female are using laser hair removal in the same way that others might go and have a manicure…it’s not a big deal because it’s relatively inexpensive and it works!

If you usually shave, wax or use depilatory creams and if you’re tired of these rather outdated methods of hair removal that take up a lot of your time then it’s time you learned more about laser hair removal!

 

laser hair removal

Is Laser Hair Removal Expensive?

No. Laser hair removal treatments have dropped considerably in price since the first clinics appeared on the high street. Laser hair removal is actually cheaper than other methods of hair removal such as waxing and long term you can actually make quite a saving.

Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

The systems now in place are so advanced that they offer a virtually pain-free treatment. Some have a built-in cooling device which blow a constant stream of cold air on the skin being treated; this prevents the “hot” sensation which is sometimes reported by those having treatment. Many people report that laser hair removal feels like a mild prickling sensation that is slightly discomforting but would not describe it as painful.

Is it Safe?

Laser Hair Removal is an FDA approved treatment and is very safe. The medical industry has been using lasers to treat a variety of skin issues for many years with no adverse results reported.

Can Men Have Laser Hair Removal Done?

Yes…in fact many men today are opting for laser hair removal on their face and body and are very happy with the results. Shaving on a daily basis is a bind for men; razor burn and dry skin are just two of the uncomfortable results of scraping your face with a blade every day! Laser hair removal is a fantastic opportunity for men to finally throw away the razor.

What Is A Patch Test And Why Do I Need One

A patch test ensures your safety – by using the laser on a small patch of your skin before the main treatment the laser settings can be tailored to your unique requirements.

Next Steps…

The road to a smoother skin is as simple as picking up the phone and booking a free consultation.

Reduce Waxing Suffering With These Simple Tips

As a hair-removal technique, waxing isn’t all sweetness and light but many people get into the habit of it and don’t consider other techniques such as laser hair removal which over time actually works out cheaper than waxing. If you’re getting tired of the pain of waxing then read on to get the low-down on waxing as well as the pros and the cons!

There are certain tricks and tips which will can you to avoid some of the pitfalls of waxing but in general it’s a rather violent method of hair removal so some issues are to be expected!

Continue reading “Reduce Waxing Suffering With These Simple Tips”

Cellulite: Then And Now

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Cellulite Is Nothing New

Cellulite is nothing new; it’s been around for many, many years and in fact if you look at paintings by old masters such as Rubens then you will see the evidence! Many of his paintings depict women in various states of undress and some of them have pretty bad cases of the lumpy bumpy condition we call cellulite. Skinnier women can also get cellulite 

The difference between the women in Rubens’ paintings and the women who suffer from cellulite today is that it’s no longer seen as proof of being rich and attractively well fed as it was in Rubens’ day but rather something to be hidden away and to be ousted!

 

Research Began In The 60s

The medical research we see today into cellulite only began in earnest during the 1960s when women’s fashion became much more revealing and women wanted to know why they had this “orange peel” effect on their midsections…cellulite is most apparent on thighs, hips and stomachs as well as the buttocks though it can sometimes be seen on upper arms and calves.

As researchers began to delve into the mystery that is cellulite they discovered that it is caused by fat cells “pushing” outward and that it is women who suffer from the condition almost exclusively.

Men just do not seem to be susceptible to it unless they have a hormone problem. In order to understand how the fat cells pushing outward causes this effect, envision a box containing neat rows of apples and covered over with Clingfilm.

All of the apples are uniform in size and shape until outside influences cause some of them to swell and to change shape; these irregular apples will push against the neat sheet of Clingfilm causing it to develop ripples and to become bumpy and uneven in texture.

Research also pointed out that obesity does not always mean that cellulite must follow just as being slim is not an instant get-out-clause for it. The thinnest women can in fact suffer from cellulite quite badly. So if cellulite is not caused by overeating or by eating an unhealthy diet then what is it caused by?

Oestrogen and Cellulite

Recent research by Peter Pugliese and GE Pierard has revealed that cellulite is caused by the relationship between fat, skin and oestrogen. The research points out the fact that cellulite does not begin to take hold of females until after puberty when oestrogen first makes an appearance in the system; the more oestrogen in a woman’s body then the higher her chances of suffering from cellulite.

Natural Ways To Beat Cellulite

However this is not the only cause; further research points to proof that toxins and a sluggish metabolism are also affecting women’s appearance; drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding high fat and sugar foods as well as caffeine and processed foods could all have a beneficial effect on the appearance of cellulite.

As research continues, doubtless we will discover more helpful advice and tactics to aid us in combating cellulite. It is certainly an uncomfortable condition and one which is responsible for many women feeling self conscious and unhappy about their appearance.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Could Your Cosmetic Accessories Be Causing Your Acne?

Your makeup bag can be a hive of bacteria if you’re not taking good care of not only your cosmetics but your brushes and other tools. It’s very easy to simply keep using your brushes, applicators, tweezers and eyelash curlers and to forget about washing them regularly! Bacteria can hide in all kinds of nooks and crannies and the bristles of your brushes are a very comfortable environment for all kinds of nasties.

A dirty makeup brush can be the cause of eye infections, acne and even in extreme cases, MRSA which is a pretty awful infection that can cause serious illness so to be certain that your skin isn’t suffering due to your lax attention to detail, start learning how to take care of your makeup equipment today! Ideally you should see that your equipment is washed once a week…if this seems excessive, just think about how you use those things…brushing them into pots and jars and then onto your face on a daily basis is going to ensure that they pick up quite a lot of bacteria so don’t be shy, get into the habit and keep to your routine!

Continue reading “Could Your Cosmetic Accessories Be Causing Your Acne?”

Are You Suffering From Acne? Maybe You’re Zinc Deficient!

Acne sufferers are always searching for the cause of their skin problems and is it any wonder? Acne is a miserable condition to suffer from and people will try anything to gain the clear skin of their dreams. The problem is that there are often a combination of factors at play when someone begins to suffer from acne but recently it has been discovered that many acne sufferers are zinc deficient.

The Importance Of Zinc

Zinc is a vital trace mineral which many people simply aren’t getting enough of and because it plays a huge part in cell regeneration there is a visible effect on the bodies of those who are deficient. Some of the symptoms of a zinc deficiency are as follows.

Continue reading “Are You Suffering From Acne? Maybe You’re Zinc Deficient!”