Microwaving away the skin sag: rejuvenation via radiofrequency

 

It is a widely known fact of cosmetic life that effective methods of reversing facial sag (as well as skin sag elsewhere) are hard to come by. While sagging can be prevented or at least slowed down with proper care (such as topical DMAE, collagen/elastin synthesis activators, etc), once significant sag has occurred, the only consistently and markedly effective way to reverse it is a facelift. The problem is that facelift is costly, requires 2-4 weeks of downtime, and carries all the typical risks of surgery. In that context, it is not surprising that a new noninvasive approach of skin tightening using a nonablative (nonstripping) radiofrequency devices is generating both legitimate interest and excessive hype.

How radiofrequency works to reduce sag

The rejuvenation methods employing radiofrequency are based on radiowaves of certain frequency to penetrate and be absorbed by body tissues. The absorption of radiowaves causes tissue heating as well as some structural molecular changes. (An essentially similar effect is used in microwave ovens where high-frequency radiowaves heat and cook food.)

The radiofrequency treatment is usually delivered by placing an electrode onto the skin and applying alternating current of the required frequency. As a result, the skin is deep-treated with controlled doses of targeted radiowaves. At the same time, the skin surface layer, consisting of the epidermis and upper dermis, may be cooled by a cryogenic spray to prevent open burns (especially when higher levels of energy delivery are employed). The treatment produces localized heat injury of the dermis and subdermal layer as well as the collagen contraction leading to skin tightening. The subsequent healing of the microscopic dermal and subdermal lesions causes further skin tightening and also reduces the depth of wrinkles. Notably, since the skin surface is preserved, the downtime after the procedure is relatively short.

In theory, this approach makes good sense. First, most of the ideas behind it have been in practical use for years. Such well-established rejuvenation methods as laser skin resurfacing, dermabrasion and deep chemical peels, are partially based on skin remodeling following a controlled injury. Second, radiofrequency tissue tightening is being used with reasonable success in other areas of medicine. For instance, endoscopic radiofrequency devices are employed to tighten sphincters in the GI tract.

In practice, the initial results of practical use of radiofrequency in skin care have been mixed. Thermage, the procedure performed with the device ThermaCool, was the original commercial application of radiofrequency in skin rejuvenation. It demonstrated that skin tightening could be achieved but was usually relatively modest (albeit some people experienced dramatic improvements) whereas the incidence of side effects and unsatisfactory results was not insignificant. A particularly vexing problem was excessive loss of subcutaneous fat seen in a relatively small percentage of patients. Such undesirable and potentially permanent side effect could apparently result from overheating of subcutaneous fat. In order to reduce or eliminate the above risks, several new distinct types of radiofrequency treatments as well as new variants of Thermage procedure have been developed. The key features of each are discussed in the following sections.

Monopolar radiofrequency (Thermage/Thermacool)

Monopolar delivery of radiofrequency for cosmetic rejuvenation is based on applying a single electrode to the treated area whereas the opposing electrode is relatively far removed so that the current goes deeply through the body. As a result, the tissue in the treated area is heated rather deeply (usually up to 20 mm) and intensely, which arguably increases both the potential benefits and risks. The more recent versions of monopolar radiofrequency procedures are claimed to have an improved risk/benefit profile. Monopolar radiofrequency is typically used to treat facial sag, skin laxity, and cellulite. The best-known procedure based on monopolar radiofrequency is Thermage, which is performed with the device Thermacool. For more details, see the fact-sheet on monopolar RF.

Bipolar radiofrequency plus laser/light (Refirme, Polaris via ELOS Technology)

Bipolar delivery of radiofrequency for cosmetic rejuvenation is based on applying two closely positioned electrodes to the treated area. The electric current that goes between the electrodes is relatively small and shallow. As a result, the tissue in the treated area is heated less deeply (usually up to 2-4 mm) and less intensely (compared to monopolar RF devices). As a result, bipolar radiofrequency procedures tend to be safer and gentler than the monopolar ones. In particular, since bipolar RF effects are relatively shallow, there is less risk of the overheating and subsequent loss of facial fat, a side-effect sometimes seen after monopolar treatments. Conversely, bipolar radiofrequency is less useful for indications when deep tissue heating may be desirable, such as cellulite treatment and sculpting.

Typically, a single bipolar RF treatment would produce less noticeable results than a monopolar one. Hence bipolar RF procedures are often done in a series of several treatments whose benefits are believed to be cumulative.

In commercial rejuvenation systems, bipolar RF is usually combined with other energy sources, particularly lasers or intense pulsed light, which are believed to act synergistically with RF and help achieve better subsequent dermal remodeling. Hence, in addition to skin tightening, such treatments are also used to improve wrinkles and fine lines. In particular, the so-called ELOS (electro-optical synergy) technology developed by Drs. Shimon Eckhouse and Michael Kreindel at Syneron has been commercialized in Refirme and Polaris systems for skin tightening and wrinkle reduction. For more details, see the fact-sheet on bipolar RF + laser/light.

Monopolar plus bipolar radiofrequency (Tripollar, Accent RF Monopolar/Bipolar)

Since monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency treatments appear somewhat complimentary, some rejuvenation devices combine both. In particular, TriPollar device (by Pollagen) has both monopolar and bipolar electrodes on the same hand-piece. The manufacturer claims that their special algorithms of simultaneous application of monopolar and bipolar RF to the treated area reduce the side effects while maximizing the benefits. The Accent RF device has separate monopolar and bipolar hand-pieces, which the physician can use sequentially in the same treatment session.

Face Care Routine

1. CLEANSING

Women who wear makeup - see Uma Thurman - should carry out a routine of cleansing, toning and moisturing turn back the clock each evening, as well as washing the face in the morning. 5 Minute Makeover Cleansing will remove old make-up and the grime and grease that have been accumulated during the day.

• Remove mascara Lashes Unlimited with a cotton bud dipped in eye-dipped in eye-cleansing lotion. To make the job easier keep your hair off your face.
• Remove the eyeshadow - Artistic Palletes - by gently wiping it off with a pad of clean cotton wool moistened with eye-cleansing lotion.
• Pour a little face cleansing cream into the palm of one hand and dab it generously over the nose, chin, forehead and cheeks --- using two fingers of the other hand.
• Massage the cream into the skin, starting under the throat, using a gentle upward motion.
• Continue massaging the cream up to the forehead, using the fingertips.
• Gently massage the cream from the eyes to the nose.
• Massage cream back over the chin, which is particularly prone to blackheads. Use the index finger.
• Remove the cream from the face with tissue pads in each hand. Start under the chin and work over the cheeks and on to the forehead

2. TONING

Toners remove all traces of dirt, make-up or cleanser that remain after cleansing.

• Immediately after cleansing apply toner to the forehead and cheeks on a pad of corron wool
• Apply the toner to the crevices around the nose.
• Apply the toner to the crevices around the chin.

3. MOISTURIZING

Without moisture, the skin will not remain smooth and supple. The face is exposed to the drying effect of the weather, so moisturisers -- which form a film over the skin -- contain and augment the natural moisture.

• Using the tips ofthe fingers, dot moisturising cream lightly all over the face.
• Press the fingers of both hands into the centre of the forehead and work the cream slowly outwards. Pat the cream gentlyaround the eyes.
• Work the cream around the jawline, chin and mouth with the middle fingers of both hands.
• Massage the cream over the throat with alternating hands, using upward strokes from collar-bone to chin.

Basic Skin Care

Healthy and supple skin is not so much of a dream if you take proper precautions and pay attention to your diet and exercise. Balanced diet, hydration and protecting from sun and wind should be a part of your daily regimen. Here are the four basic steps to skin care that are mandatory and cannot be skipped on any account, if you want a naturally glowing skin. It is important that you use the products according to your skin type. You have to pay attention to the order of the steps too:

1. Cleansing The Skin
Cleansing is quite essential to avoid acnes and other skin problems. Wash your skin often using a mild face wash and wipe off with a clean washcloth. It is quite important to get rid of any impurities such as dirt particles and makeup before going to sleep so that your skin can breathe properly at night. Use mild cleanser at least twice a day but make sure that it rinses away easily, does not cause skin irritation and do not wash away natural oils too.

2. Toning The Skin
Toners not only cleanse the skin further and help in removing any remnants of particles that you may have left behind but also cools, nourishes, hydrates and freshens up your skin. It tightens up skin and close up any skin pores that may have opened up while deep cleansing the face. Toners must be alcohol-free as alcohol dries off skin.

3. Exfoliating The Skin
Exfoliants remove dead cells from the skin, rejuvenate the skin and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles from the face. The younger skin that surfaces after exfoliation naturally looks more beautiful and glowing. These products usually have alpha or beta hydroxy acids to quicken up the process but do avoid the ones that are granular as they tend to damage the new skin too that is much more sensitive than the mature layer that it digests.

4. Moisturizing The Skin
Like our body, our skin also needs hydration and proper nutrients to keep it healthy. So, treat it with a good moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with more than SPF 15 daily and night cream daily that helps the skin to balance and restores any damage that might have occurred to it overnight.

Beach Beauty
Too much exposure to the sun on beach may cause under-eye skin crinkles, blackheads and acne on nose, cold lip sores, red and scaly temples and broken blood vessels. To avoid these unwanted signs of old age

Beautiful Eyebrows
Perfect eyebrows almost transcend the beauty of the face and make an immediate visible impact in a makeover session. The most coveted eyebrow shape is the one that starts directly above the inner corner of the eye

Essential Oils
Essential oils have been part of cosmetics for men and ladies alike for thousands of years. Their exotic aromas were enough to win them favors amongst the humankind and when it was revealed that the aromas make a significant difference to the status of our health

Eyebrow Waxing
One of the easiest ways to get rid of the extra hair around your brow line, waxing is definitely note for those with very sensitive skin. It is more expensive than plucking your eyebrows but lasts longer too.

Facial Skin Care
Daily skin & facial care makes us look more charming and beautiful. By following some easy tips, you can look younger and more beautiful without spending too much of extra time and money.

Frugal Beauty
You don't have to spend big bucks to get beauty treatments commercially. A little care at home can help you to attain that glamorous finished look at home, quite frugally. For a hydrating treatment for your hands while doing your dishes in the kitchen

Herbal Beauty
External impurities and internal toxins are the worst enemies of our body and skin and herbal beauty products and detoxification remedies help us not only to get rid of them but also provide additional nutrients to the body.

Tweezing Brows
Well-plucked eyebrows make you appear more groomed than any thing else. Today it is a trend to get eyebrows tweezed or threaded professionally in eyebrow boutiques, which are very expensive.

Skin care tips

For Glowing skin

• A facemask of egg white and honey gently removes the tan from your face.
• Mix oats with honey, yogurt and ground almonds. Apply this in your face, leave it for five minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
• Cucumber is a natural cleanser. Mix cucumber juice with milk and use it instead of a cleanser.
• For oily skin, apply a mixture of grapes, lemon and egg white. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. While lemon acts as a natural cleanser, grapes will soften your skin and egg whites will tighten it. Don't be alarmed if your skin tingles.
• Cut the lemon and rub the wedge all over your face. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water. This will refresh your face. Avoid doing this if you have dry skin.
• Mix honey, lemon and vegetable oil .This mixture is a good moisturiser for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of honey and milk on the face . This will make your skin glow.
• Prepare a mask by mixing a slice of pumpkin with egg yolk and milk. Let this mask set on your face for 30 minutes for a glowing skin.
• Mix half-a-cup honey to your bath water for soft and smooth skin.
• For a soothing body pack, prepare a paste of mint leaves and almonds. Mix it with warm water and apply all over your body. Leave it till it dries and rinse with warm water.
• Buttermilk dabbed on skin for 15 minutes will soak up oil from your skin without drying it.
• Carrot juice applied daily fades blemishes.
• For dark underarms and neck apply lemon juice mixed with cucumber juice and a pinch of turmeric daily. Leave this on for 20 minutes.
• For removing facial hair.. Apply a sticky paste of egg white blended with sugar and corn flour. When it dries, gently peel it off. Repeat this three to four times a week.
• Thin apple slices rubbed onto oily skin will help in controlling oily shine.
• For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
• Cauliflower juice applied on warts regularly will make them fall.
• For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered) with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.
• Mix half teaspoon dried curry leaf powder with multani mitti  (fullers earth) and apply on the face. Wash it after it gets dry.
• Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.
• Add two teaspoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curd and apply on the face.
• Add a pinch of yeast with 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice and apply.
• Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
• Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together and apply it on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
• Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.
• Mix curd and cucumber juice and apply it on the face.
• Apply the mixture of coconut water and thick pineapple juice.
• Make a paste with 1/2 teaspoon of milk  powder, 1/4 teaspoon of egg white and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and apply on the face.
• For dry skin, Make a paste with egg yolk, olive oil and lemon juice. Apply it on the neck and face, wash it out after 10 minutes.
• For oily skin, take a mixture of oatmeal and egg white and apply it on the neck and face
• For glowing skin, use basin or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.
• Apply the mixture of raw turmeric and cream of milk on the face and wash it after 20 minutes. It will make your skin fair.
• Apply the mixture of honey, basin, cream of milk and olive oil as a face pack.
• Apply the paste of fenugreek with milk on the face and let it dry. Wash off with luke warm water.

• Make a paste of red sandal wood and apply it on the face every day for glowing skin.

• Make a paste with red sandal powder and coconut milk and apply on the face for soft skin.

 For Black Spots

• Make a paste with mehndi and oil and apply on the face
• Make a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice and glycerin and apply it on the spots
• Apply the paste of turmeric and curry leaves on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
• Apply a mixture of mehndi and turmeric. For a piece of turmeric, 2-3 leaves of mehndi are used
• Grind dried basil leaf, neem and mint (100 gm each). Add some turmeric powder and rose water to make it in a paste form and apply it on the spots.
• Grind betel leaf and add a little coconut oil and apply it on the spots

• Soak a chappathi  in milk overnight . Make it into a paste and apply it on black heads. Repeat for several days 

• Make a paste of saffron and add some honey , apply it on the face to remove black spots.

• To remove black spots... apply a paste of turmeric and basil.

• To remove wrinkles on the face, apply a mixture of sandalwood powder, rosewater and glycerin. Wash with cold water after some time

Mineral Makeup

Ever been baffled by the ingredient list on a shampoo bottle or lipstick? Unless you have a degree in chemistry, the oxides and isopropyls might as well be a foreign language. A movement in cosmetics to simplify matters has hit the shelves: mineral makeup. Touting a back to basics ideology, mineral makeup typically advertises "natural" or "organic" ingredients. Ingredients aside, mineral makeup also takes a slightly different application technique, and can be a suitable alternative for certain skin types aggravated by traditional cosmetic lines.

For a significant portion of the population, department store cosmetics are not an option. Various skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and allergies to specific ingredients limit cosmetic product selections. Mineral makeup is often purported to be a solution for those usually unable to wear makeup. The main draw is the lack of chemically altered ingredients, in hope that this will reduce any irritation or allergic flare up. Mineral makeup is also lighter, and can grant a more sheer sensation. Before trying a new mineral makeup product line, a small amount of research should be done to improve chances of success.

Stick with a reputable company for mineral makeup products. A quick check on the Food and Drug Administration website or the Skin Deep safe cosmetic database can help identify potentially sham companies or dangerous ingredients. Be sure to read company provided literature and information on the product carefully. Look for substitutes of "natural" for "organic" and any asterisks leading to notes at the bottom. A big red flag is if there is an exception to a promise or results statement saying it has not been evaluated by the FDA. While most products will not give you any problems, complications from harsh chemicals or mislabeled cosmetics can cause serious harm, especially those used in the eye area.

The color palette available in mineral makeup lines is as varied as the world around you. Hues in bright blues, deep purples, and soft pinks can be found in a variety of products, such as lipstick, eye shadow, and blush. Some mineral cosmetics contain metallic components, which can cause an unintended shine. Look for products promising a matte finish if shine is not the style desired. Color selection is similar to traditional cosmetic color lines, based on a warm or cool skin tone.

Brushes are the recommended applicator for mineral cosmetics. Cosmetic brushes, not sponges or pads, allow the wearer to "tap" off excess before applying, an important step before blending mineral cosmetics. Colors are usually more concentrated, but blending should be more agreeable to the skin than synthetic products. Also unlike heavily processed products, the natural elements of mineral makeup can make it far easier to remove at the end of a long day.

Mineral makeup products are an appropriate alternative for those allergic or sensitive to other cosmetic lines. Just take care to effectively research and educate yourself about any new cosmetic product used on your skin. Because mineral makeup is a smaller movement gaining momentum, it is easier for unscrupulous businesses to hide amongst the legitimate ones. Use online resources to verify credentials and FDA approval. Finally, enjoy the richer coloring and coverage mineral cosmetics can afford, all with a pure feeling many synthetic products can't deliver.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Skin

Sometimes it may seem like your skin is impossible to manage, especially when you wake up and find a huge zit on your nose or a cold sore at the corner of your mouth. The good news is that there are ways to prevent and treat common skin problems ― read on for some tips.

Acne

A pimple starts when the pores in the skin become clogged with a type of oil called sebum, which normally lubricates the skin and hair. Acne is common during puberty when hormones go into overdrive, causing the skin to overproduce sebum. Because many oil-producing glands are on the forehead, nose, and chin, this area ― the T-zone ― is where a person is most prone to pimples.

Here are some tips to help prevent breakouts and clear them up as fast as possible:

• Wash your face twice a day (no more) with warm water and a mild soap made for people with acne. Gently massage your face with circular motions. Don't scrub. Overwashing and scrubbing can cause skin to become irritated. After cleansing, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends applying an over-the-counter (no prescription needed) lotion containing benzoyl peroxide. This will decrease oil and bacteria.
• Don't pop pimples. It's tempting, but here's why you shouldn't: Popping pimples can push infected material further into the skin, leading to more swelling and redness, and even scarring. If you notice a pimple coming before a big event, like the prom, a dermatologist can often treat it for you with less risk of scarring or infection.
• Avoid touching your face with your fingers or leaning your face on objects that collect sebum and skin residue like the telephone receiver. Touching your face can spread the bacteria that cause pores to become inflamed and irritated. To keep bacteria at bay, wash your hands before applying anything to your face, such as treatment creams or makeup.
• If you wear glasses or sunglasses, make sure you clean them frequently to keep oil from clogging the pores around your eyes and nose.
• If you get acne on your body, try not to wear tight clothes, which don't allow skin to breathe and may cause irritation. You also might want to stay away from scarves, headbands, and caps, which can collect dirt and oil, too.
• Remove your makeup before you go to sleep. When buying makeup, make sure you choose brands that say "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic" on the label. Throw away old makeup that smells or looks different from when you first bought it.
• Keep hair clean and out of your face to prevent additional dirt and oil from clogging your pores.
• Protect your skin from the sun. It may seem like a tan masks acne, but it's only temporary. A tan can cause the body to produce extra sebum, which may worsen your acne, not improve it. Tanning also causes damage to skin that will eventually lead to wrinkles and increase your risk of skin cancer.

If you're concerned about acne, talk to a dermatologist. Dermatologists offer a range of treatments that help to prevent and clear up acne and acne scars. A dermatologist can help you find the treatment method that's best for you and can also give you lots of useful tips for dealing with acne and caring for your skin type. Some salons and spas have trained skin specialists, called estheticians, who can offer advice and skin care treatments.

Sun and Skin

We all know we need to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. Of course, it's impossible to avoid the sun ― who wants to hide indoors when it feels so great to get outside and be active? And the sun's not all bad, anyway: Sunlight helps our bodies create vitamin D. So follow these tips when you're outdoors to help manage sun exposure:

• Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, even if it's cloudy or you don't plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. If you sweat a lot or go swimming, reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours (even if the bottle says the sunscreen is waterproof).
• Choose a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Look for the words "broad spectrum protection" or UVA protection in addition to the SPF of 15 or greater. Select a sunscreen that says "nonacnegenic" or "noncomedogenic" on the label to help keep pores clear.
• The sun's rays are strongest between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, so make sure you reapply sunscreen frequently and take breaks indoors if you can. If your shadow is longer than you are tall, then it's a safer time to be in the sun (you should still wear sunscreen, though).
• Apply more sunscreen (with higher SPF) when you're around reflective surfaces like water, snow, or ice.
• We all know that the sun can damage skin, but did you know it can contribute to eye problems, too? Protect your face and eyes with a hat and sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection.
• Some medications, such as prescription acne medications or birth control pills, can increase your sensitivity to the sun, so if you're taking medication, increase your sun protection.
• If you want the glow of a tan, try faking it with self-tanners or salon tanning treatments. Avoid tanning beds, though, because although manufacturers claim that tanning beds are free of UVB rays, they still use harmful UVA rays.

Cold Sores

Cold sores usually show up as tender "pimples" on the lips. They are caused by a type of herpes virus (HSV-1, which most often is not sexually transmitted) so they are contagious from person to person. Once you get this virus it stays in your body, meaning you'll probably get cold sores every now and then throughout your life. Here are ways you can help prevent cold sores from making an appearance (or reappearance if you've had them in the past):

• Avoid getting cold sores in the first place by not sharing stuff like lip balm, toothbrushes, or drinks with other people who might have cold sores. The virus that causes cold sores is transmitted through the nose (in mucus) and the mouth (in saliva).
• People who have the virus know that cold sores can flare up from things like too much sun, stress, or being sick. Just one more reason to lather on that suntan lotion, eat well, exercise, and get plenty of sleep!

If you do have a cold sore, here are some tips for keeping yourself comfortable:

• Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen if the cold sores are painful.
• Suck on ice pops or cubes to ease pain and keep cold sores cool.
• Stay away from acidic foods (like oranges, tomatoes, and lemonade) and salty, spicy foods, which can cause irritation.
• Don't pick at cold sores while you're waiting for them to go away. They may bleed or become infected with bacteria.

Usually, cold sores go away on their own after a week or two. But if you get them frequently or they're a problem, talk to your doctor or dermatologist, who may be able to prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms and shorten the amount of time cold sores last.

Eczema

Eczema is a condition that causes skin to become red, itchy, and dry. If you have eczema, you might notice that you are prone to getting itchy rashes ― especially in places like where your elbows and knees bend or on your neck and face. The symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person. Though you can't cure eczema forever, you can take steps to prevent it from flaring:

• Stay away from things like harsh detergents, perfumed soaps, and heavily fragranced lotions that tend to irritate the skin and trigger eczema.
• Because water tends to dry out the skin, take short, warm showers and baths. If you're going to have your hands in water for a long time (like when you're washing dishes or your car), try wearing gloves.
• Soothe your skin with regular applications of a fragrance-free moisturizer to prevent itching and dryness. Creams generally moisturize a bit better and last longer than lotions for most people. Creams work best if applied when the skin is slightly wet, like just after bathing.
• Be careful which fabrics you wear. Cotton is good because it's breathable and soft. (But if you are exercising, some of the newer synthetic materials actually keep you drier and are better for you than cotton.) Try to stay away from materials like wool or spandex that may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
• Keep stress in check. Because stress can lead to eczema flares, try activities like yoga or walking after a long day to keep your stress levels low.
• If you wear makeup, look for brands that are free of dyes and fragrances that can aggravate eczema.

If you're having trouble managing your eczema, talk to a dermatologist, who can suggest ways to better control it.

Other Skin Conditions

Warts are tiny skin infections caused by viruses of the human papilloma virus (HPV) family. There's no way to prevent warts from occurring (other than avoiding contact with people who have them). But if you do get them, don't rub, pick, or scratch them because you can spread the virus and get new warts. Some over-the-counter medications containing special acids can help get rid of warts, but it's always a good idea to see your doctor before trying one. If you find warts in your genital area, you should see your doctor, who can recommend the best treatment method for that sensitive area.

Another type of wart-like viral infection is molluscum contagiosum. (It's not as scary as its name sounds!) Like warts, it can be transmitted through scratching and sexual contact.

Fine white or purplish lines on the skin called stretch marks are pretty common in most teens. Stretch marks are formed when the tissue under your skin is pulled by rapid growth or stretching, like during puberty. Stretch marks usually fade on their own over time. Talk to a dermatologist if you're concerned about them.

Because our skin is the most visible reflection of what's going on in our bodies, people equate healthy skin with beauty. But healthy skin is about more than just good looks; it's essential to our survival. So keep your skin glowing with the right skin care techniques and by eating well and getting lots of exercise.

Dry Skin Care

Dehydration is the loss of water in the body, sometimes severe enough to cause shock since the human body is composed of seventy five percent water. To address this problem you first need to know its main cause. Several factors like the environment, weather, health situation, or lifestyle is making the skin dry. Some of them are easily remedied and others will take more time and effort.

To avoid dehydration, you should drink at least eight glasses of water a day, approximately 64 ounces of water, more in really hot weather. If you do not get enough water in the body, dehydration may set in. The eight glasses do not include other beverages you drink during the day, such as tea, coffee, milk, soda or juice. These beverages should be limited in intake since some of them may further dehydrate your skin and contribute to other skin conditions, such as acne.

Unnatural air conditioning from home or office heating and cooling systems keeps the air dry by removes moisture from your skin. Room humidifiers can be employed to keep air moist. Humidifiers can also be installed on the home furnace to help retain moisture in the atmosphere of the home. Installing such can be a bit expensive but helpful in avoiding dry skin especially in places with dry climate such as the Midwest states. A helpful tip in keeping the house humid is to fill several pots with water and place it in strategic places in the house. They need to be refilled when the level of water becomes low.

Living in a dry climate, such as Colorado, Alaska, Utah, Arizona, and elsewhere. You can't make the air outside more humid, but you can use humidifiers indoors. Fill a pottery crock with water and place several around your house. Refill when the water has evaporated.

Excessive use of exfoliants can also dry out the skin, making it reddish and rough. Treatment is just to decrease the frequency of use of the exfoliant. Use scrub exfoliants with polyurethane beads or cornmeal since this does not dry out the skin. Also, the excessive use of topical medications prescribed for the skin like Retin-A and hydroquinone can also cause inflammation of the skin. Use should be cut down to every three days until the skin becomes normal.

Overuse of topical prescription medications for skin, such as Retin-A, benzoyl peroxide, or hydroquinone. They can make the skin dry, red, and inflamed. Cut back on use to every other day or every third day until your skin normalizes and redness is healed.

Before using any skin care product on yourself, you should try to consult a skin expert or a certified skin technician. Since there are a lot of skin care products in the market today, you should always test what will work best on your skin. If it feels too dry or flaking occurs, then it probably isn't the best product for you. Foundations used either powder or fluid, should nourish the skin, and not cause it to dry up. It will help to know the type of facial skin you have, if either oily or dry, to be able to choose the right foundation for your skin type.

Using foundation or powder that is too drying for your skin. If your skin feels tight at midday, consider switching your foundation or powder to one with more moisture and less oil absorption.

Salon treatments are a delight to indulge in. But too much of a good thing can lead to its destruction. Treatments at a salon should be done every six weeks, at the least, especially for skin peels. Consult your aesthetician for suggestions on the proper skin regimen for you.

There are several medications that can lead to dehydration. If these medications are not really necessary for your body, like if it is just a supplement and not for the cure of an underlying illness, then stop using it. If this is not possible, then just try to avoid other causes of skin dehydration.

Some illnesses can also lead to skin dehydration like flu, and cancer. Flu discourages water retention thus leading to dehydration. Cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation treatments can also dehydrate the skin. The best thing to do is to keep your skin hydrated even when sick by drinking lots of fluids.

Travel by plane can also cause your skin to get dehydrated. Since the cabin air is drier, especially at a height of thirty thousand feet, moisturizer should be applied before the plane takes off. Spritzing your face with a toner solution that contains humectant or much simpler, purified water, can help moisturize your skin during flights.

Pollution also plays a role in skin dehydration. You can either opt to stop pollution or just take care of your own skin by following the proper and prescribed skin regimen for you regularly.

Drinking alcohol also leads to dehydration since alcohol is a diuretic. Diuretics draw water from the body, and lower the water level in the body. A hang over is usually the result of dehydration of the body. If you are prone to dry skin, alcoholic drinks should be avoided. Smoking also produces the same effect on the body. Even if you are just the recipient of second hand smoke, it can still cause dehydration. Therefore to avoid dehydration, stop smoking.

Smoking. Smoking dries out the body both internally and externally. This affects both smokers and people subject to second hand smoke. The only solution is to stop smoking.

Drinking sodas, either the regular kind or the diet ones can result in dehydration. These types of drinks have sodium as their ingredient which causes acidity. Avoid sodas and increase your intake of purified water. Carbonated water has dissolved carbon dioxide in its composition, which is also highly acidic, so avoid other bubbly drinks as well.

A good sleep during the night helps greatly in maintaining moisture in the skin. At least six to eight hours of sleep is needed for the body to function at its peak. Avoid eating starches, white sugar, junk food, french fries, and potato chips since this may also lead to skin dehydration.

There are still several causes that may lead to skin dehydration, all of them seen in our daily routine. If only people are aware of this, then complaints of dry skin can be avoided. Our modern and carefree lifestyle contributes to this skin condition. It is only by changing our regular habits that we can avoid having dry skin. After changing our lifestyle and environment, here are several tips on how to take care of your skin.

Dry Skin Treatment

After you go to work on the lifestyle and environmental changes suggested, it's time to go to work on your skin. Follow these suggestions:

Correcting dehydrated skin begins with faithfully completing your daily skin care ritual. Be sure to cleanse, tone, and moisturize twice a day- morning and evening.

Exfoliate gently and regularly using mild alpha hydroxyl acids to dissolve dead skin cells that buildup in the skin because of its dryness and keratinization. Improvement of the skin's natural moisturizing factor can be achieved by the use of lactic acid, squalene, glycerine, and urea treatments. For special treatment for your skin, a hydrating mask can be applied to make the skin remain moist but make sure that it will not unintentionally dry the skin.

For a special skin treatment, apply a hydrating mask that stays moist on the skin. Be sure your mask isn't intended to actually dry while on the skin.

Use sunscreen with the right sun protection factor and moisturizer when going outdoors. Select a foundation that keeps moisture in place like those that contain glyconucleopeptides, silicone, or silica. Drink fish oil capsules that contain essential fatty acids, or flax seed oil, every day. They will make your skin soft and supple. A dosage of 10 capsules or 2 tablespoons can suffice. Eating five to ten servings of vegetables and fruits daily with each meal also helps in hydrating the skin.

Choose a foundation that seals in moisture, such as one that contains silicone, silica, or glyconucleopeptides.

Take essential fatty acids, those found in fish oil capsules or flax seed oil, every day. Take about 10 capsules or 2 tablespoons. They will make your skin soft and supple. Eat 5 to 10 servings of vegetables and fruits dailt, or at least 2 with each meal.

Electrolytes should also be balanced to help regulate the hydration levels of the body. These can be found in fruits like bananas and oranges instead of so called energy drinks like Gatorade since it is composed of a lot of sugar and artificial ingredients.

5 Tips for Natural Skin Care

Tip 1: Give Yourself a Dry Brush Exfoliation

A dry brush exfoliation can be done in the morning before you shower. It eliminates dead skin cells and allows the skin to detox (skin is the largest organ of elimination). Dry brush exfoliation also improves lymph and blood circulation and decreases puffiness. An added benefit is that the gentle pressure is calming to the nervous system. To give yourself a dry brush exfoliation, you'll need a soft, natural bristle brush.

• How to Give Yourself a Dry Brush Exfoliation

Tip 2: Rev Up Your Digestion

In alternative medicine, good skin is a reflection of a good digestive system. People with skin disorders such as acne, rosacea, and psoriasis often suffer from constipation, imbalanced "good" vs. "bad" bacteria, leaky gut, and other digestive conditions. The two most common sluggish digestion culprits are:

• Culprit #1: Not Enough Water Water bathes cells and eliminates waste products, preventing constipation. 5 Ways to Boost Your Water Intake
  
  
• Culprit #2: Not Enough Fiber Most people lack fiber in their diets - the average person eats only 12 g of fiber a day. In 2002, the National Academy of Sciences Food and Nutrition Board established recommended fiber intakes. For men aged 19-50 years, 38 g fiber is recommended, and for men over 50, 31 g fiber is recommended. For women aged 19 to 50 years, 25 g fiber is recommended, and for women over 50, 21 g fiber is recommended.
  
  Some suggestions:
  1. Add Whole Grains - Choose whole grain products over refined. Have brown rice instead of white or make your own 50:50 combination.
     
  2. An Apple a Day - Have an apple, skin on, as a snack.
     
  3. Eat Cauliflower - Try this delicious Roasted Cauliflower recipe!
     
  4. High-fiber snacks - Snack on nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, such as dates, figs, and prunes.
     
  5. Try a "Prune Power" Smoothie - Prunes are a great source of fiber. Start your day with this tasty Prune Power smoothie.
     
  6. Eat Beans and Legumes - Open a can of your favorite beans or legumes. Rinse them well and add them to your meal.
     
  7. Ground Flaxseeds - For any easy fiber boost, sprinkle ground flaxseeds (available at health food stores) on rice, salads, oatmeal, or any other meal. Store flaxseeds in the fridge.

Tip 3: Invigorate Sluggish Circulation

Do you sit at your desk for hours, only getting up to go to the bathroom? One of the best things you can do for your skin, stress level, and overall health is to get moving! Inactivity may affect skin and promote bloating and puffiness, acne, cellulite, and loss of muscle tone. You'll learn more about exercise in Step 9 of the Wellness Makeover. Here are some quick suggestions:

• Take a quick break to go outside and walk around the block.
  
• Book a massage therapy appointment.
  
• Close your door and stretch.
  
• Go to the gym.
  
• Start each morning by stretching.
  
• Get a skipping rope.
  

Tip #4: Avoid Excess Sugar

Most people do not realize this but excess sugar is considered one of the main causes of premature aging. The more sugar we eat, the more sugar we have entering our bloodstream. Over time, this can result in a process known as glycation, which is when a glucose (sugar) molecule damages a protein molecule by sticking to it. The new molecules formed are called advanced glycation end-products, or AGEs. AGEs damage collagen in skin, cartilage, and ligaments and promote a loss of elasticity. Wrinkles form and skin begins to sag.

• Try This - It may seem impossible to reduce your sugar intake, but it can be done! A gradual approach works best. In the next week, choose one thing you're going to do to decrease the amount of sugar you consume. For example, start by cutting the amount of sugar in your daily coffee or tea by half. Every week, find another way you can decrease your sugar intake. Pretty soon, you'll be surprised at how far you've come!
  

Tip #5: Eat Some Good Fats

Essential fatty acids are simply fats your body cannot live without. They are needed to make cell membranes, hormones, and other body chemicals. Essential fats are thought to keep your heart healthy, fight inflammation, and possibly prevent cancer. They are also particularly important to people with inflammatory conditions such as eczema and acne, and also for people with dry skin. People with essential fat deficiency sometimes notice bumps on the backs of their arms. Here are my suggestions on getting more essential fats:

• Flaxseed and walnut oil - Use flaxeed oil or walnut oil with balsamic vinegar as a salad dressing. Be sure to keep these oils refrigerated. They should not be heated or used for cooking.
  
• Cold water fish - Sardines are a good source of essential fats. Salmon is another good source, however these salmon accumulate toxic polychlorinated biphenyls (otherwise known as PCBs) in their body fat during the 95 percent of their lives they spend at sea.
  
• Supplements - Consider fish oil supplements.