Posts Tagged ‘skin cells’

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) Who Do They Benefit?

December 20th, 2009

Author: Linda Fournierbr
Source: articleage.combr
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IN WHICH CASES ARE AHA RECOMMENDED?
* Hyperkeratinization (increased accumulation of keratin and cell) extreme cases of hyperkeratinization such as Seborrheic dermatitis (Seborrhea skin conditions which is excess flaking, itching, scaling and redness afflicting either scalp or face due to an increase of the rate of production of skin cells which buildup on the skin.
* Hyperpigmentation (brown spots, discoloration), dry sun damaged skins
* Xerosis (so-called dry, rough, uneven skin, calloused skin)
* Wrinkles and fine lines
* Comedonal, Whiteheads and blemished skins
* Keratosis pilaris (are numerous tiny rough spots sometimes red and itchy usually on the arms but may appear on the thighs, hands, eyebrows, cheeks or any other part of the body caused by accumulation of old skin cells, this occurs mostly in the winter months when skin is more prone to drynes and low humidity or after the summer months due to sun exposure…..(causing calloused skin)
WHAT ARE THE MAIN EFFECTS OF AHA ON THE SKIN?
* Refine the corneal layer by exfoliating accumulation of dead skin cells
* Accelerate cellular renewal
* Moisturize by stimulating the skin to produce hyaluronic acid, known for its highly
moisturizing effect on the skin but to be effective the concentration should be 2% and up!
* Reduce brown spots
* Even out and Brighten the complexion
* Make wrinkles less visible
* Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) are naturally occurring acids, derived from the sugars.. Some examples are
Glycolic Acid (Sugar Cane), Lactic Acid (Milk), Tartaric Acid (Grapes), Citric Acid (Citrus Fruits),
Malic Acid (Apples), and Mandelic Acid (Bitter Almonds).
* These acids work at the very base of the stratum corneum, dissolving the cement that holds dead skin cells together to remove dead cells from the skin, removal of this external barrier enables easier, deeper penetration of other skin treatments as well clears oiliness and impurities, increases skin hydration due to the natural moisturizing properties of AHAs and rejuvenates the skin.This increases cell turnover and influences the structure of new stratum corneum being made. AHA has the potential to help bleach unwanted skin discoloration. This results in skin that is more flexible,even in color, more smooth, and more moisturized, making fine lines less visible while delaying the aging process. Finally, they not only stimulate collagen production, but help plump up collagen and elastin fibers within the skin. It is the basis of many acne therapy and skin rejuvenation!
* Excellent exfoliating product!!!! For all skin types except reactive/sensitive skins and any age (teenagers to seniors)! IF YOUR SKIN IS TOO SENSITIVE FOR AHA YOU WILL KNOW CAUSE IT WILL FEEL IRRITATED AND RED.
* An effective concentration should contain at least 7-8% alpha hydroxy acid with a pH between 2.5 and 4.0. A pH of up to 4.5 is acceptable on products with high concentrations of 20-25%. Products for use at home should never contain over 10 % alpha hydroxy acid, anything over 10-15% a doctors or professional supervision is required. Alpha hydroxy acids do not thin the skin if used correctly!
* Remember one should always wear a sunscreen if one is using alpha hydroxy acids products and going in the sun (which is not recommended because of possible sensitivities, this also includes the cold and wind, the reason why I recommend to use AHA creams at night to prevent any possible reaction/sensitivities to any harsh environment )
In the summer one should always use suncblock if they will be outside!
* For some it is best at the beginning to use the aha cream every second night and work up gradually to every night. Or you may wish to use the product every other night throughout the treatment and alternate with another cream if your skin feels sensitive…
* While using AHA creams it is normal to have some flaking occuring this is just the dead skin cells being shed off! Also during the first few weeks some people may experience some breakouts that is normal too due to the product eliminating impurities from the pores and a sensation of warmth and light tingling may occur!!!
If you wish you can apply a moisturizer (optional) on top of the AHA over dry areas or use it alone! Also the need to exfoliate the skin once a week is not necessary when using aha products!
Linda Fournier

Professional Esthetician/Owner

Elles Esthetic Studio

http://www.ellesestheticstudio.combr
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Helpful tips to care for your skin

December 11th, 2009

Author: Tanya Jainbr
Source: articleage.combr
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Skin is the outer most covering of your body, which need to be kept clean and nourished. If your skin is kept in good health, then you will be feeling more beautiful, fresh and young. Your skin needs to be pampered and taken care of. The skin is the part of the body, which is exposed constantly to various types of pollutants and harshness from the surroundings. These pollutants harm the skin and the skin loses its youthfulness and glow. Here is some basic information about how to keep your skin healthy. You need to know your skin type before starting any skin care program. There are four basic skin types, normal, oily, dry and sensitive skin.

You need to wash your face to remove the dirt from it and to keep it clean. You should never wash your face with hot or cold water. Hot and cold water cause broken capillaries on the skin. Always wash your face with lukewarm water to remove the dirt and to open the clogged pores of your skin. You should wash your face as often as possible. But never forget to wash it before going to bed and in the morning. You should never go to bed with makeup on. You should use a mild cleanser suitable to your skin type for cleansing your skin. The surfactants present in the cleanser remove the dirt, and the oil secreted by the sweat glands. You should apply the cleanser gently over the face in circular motion. Then wash the face with cool water.

You need to give your skin a dry exfoliation brush in the morning to remove the dead skin cells. Exfoliating your skin is very essential in order to make it bright and glowing. The purpose of exfoliating your skin is to remove the dead superficial skin cells and to make way for the new skin cells to appear. This will give you a youthful and glowing appearance. The new cells also absorb moisture readily than the dead cells. Exfoliation also improves the blood circulation. You can use a soft natural bristle brush for dry exfoliation. If your skin is oily, then you need to exfoliate atleast 4-5 times a week. Those with dry sensitive skin can exfoliate once or twice per week. In order to keep your skin soft; you need to moisturize your skin. Moisturizers help to draw and seal moisture into the skin. This will rejuvenate the skin cells and make the skin feel soft and glowing. You should not overdo it as it can also result in clogging of the pores. You should select a moisturizer, which suits your skin type. Moisturizers also help to protect your skin from sun damage. Moisturizers with sunscreen are available which can be used in the daytime to protect your skin from the harsh UV light.

You need to invigorate your skin by massaging them in slow circular motion. This will help to improve the circulation and will also prevent formation of wrinkles. In order to have a healthy glowing skin you need to rev up your digestion. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced healthy food. Avoid oily and junk foodstuffs. In this way you can prevent constipation and other digestive problems which are the main cause for skin ailments like acne, pimples etc.br
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The Benefits of Home Microdermabrasion

November 23rd, 2009

Author: Hope Mason
Source: articleage.com

Microdermabrasion treatments used to be known as the lunchtime peel. This short but effective anti aging skin procedure involved a visit to a dermatologist or cosmetician’s office. Thanks to new technology you can now perform this costly procedure yourself at home by buying home microdermabrasion kits.

Professional microdermabrasion treatments involve the use of a tool that resembles a small blowtorch. This torch emits crystals on the surface of the skin and then gently polishes it. This polishing gets rid of the old exfoliated old skin cells and encourages new skin cells to grow. The stimulation to the smaller blood vessels in the facial skin is often immediately obvious because it brings a fresh baby pink glow to the face.

These exfoliating and polishing treatments for sun-damaged skin are very popular. Microdermabrasian involves removing the superficial damaged layers in a non-invasive ways. These skin layers look healthier and the thickness of the skin is improved. However microdermabrasion works best if you attend a series of treatments so that the cells have the constant opportunity to renew and rejuvenate themselves. If you have acne scars or severe damage, you need a session every two to three weeks to achieve a smoother, healthier skin texture.

Before the advent of home microdermabrasion kits, microdermabrasion was always performed in an office. Each treatment usually took thirty minutes to an hour and cost about a hundred dollars. Now thankfully several cosmetic companies are putting out their own versions of this procedures which you can do yourself at home. This is a boon to busy and budget conscious women and men as most of these home dermabrasion kits only cost between $25 and $60 and contain several treatments in one kit. This allows you to turn your bathroom into a high efficiency salon that you can visit at your leisure to polish your skin. This type of home microdermabrasian kit is also ideal for the slightly shy teenager who would rather try to take care of his or her acne scars in private. Some microdermabrasian products promise results in about four weeks but of course this all depends on how often and how well you use the product.

Unlike the salons, these home microdermabrasian kits often contain creams or gels with small polishing granules. Some are thermogenic meaning the cream or gel heats up while it is on your face further stimulating your skin’s circulation. Some kits also come with a battery operated skin polishers, which contain a slightly abrasive plastic pad to thoroughly scrub away dead skin cells and exfoliate the top layers of the skin.

Whether you are getting microdeermabrasion in a salon or using a home microdermabrasion kit it is quite common for the skin to suffer from some irritation and redness immediately after the treatment. This is due to the exfoliation of the skin, which eventually leads to the birth of new skin cells. These new skin cells will cause wrinkled skin to look plumper, dull skin to look more vibrant and skin with acne scars to appear less pitted. If you do suffer from mild skin irritation after a treatment then usually a mild anti-inflammatory painkiller such as Advil does the trick for relieving the discomfort.

For maximum results you should also avoid wearing make up for a few days after a treatment so that you don’t hamper the renewal and healing of your newly abraded skin in any way.

If you have acne and are planning to use a home microdermabrasion kit you should be aware that these kits are not recommended to use in conjunction with Accutane, nor should you attempt microdermabrasion on your face if you have taken Accutane in the past six months. Skin that has been exposed to accutane is naturally thinner and redder and there is greater risk of injury if you abrade your skin in any way while you are taking this drug.

As microdermabrasion only removes the top superficial layers of the skin it is considered to be quite safe. Due to the fact that skin cells regenerate quickly any redness that does occur on your skin after using a microdermabrasion kit should clear up within an hour or two. Used correctly a microdermabrasion kit can save you the money you would normally spend repeatedly visiting a dermatologist, cosmetologist or plastic surgeon to get your skin resurfaced. However keep in mind that you will still need to do several treatments at home to achieve the same results that you would visiting a salon for several microdermabrasion sessions.

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Acne – Causes and Home Treatment – The Answer That You're Looking For

November 11th, 2009

Author: John I Christian
Source: ezinearticles.com

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease which manifests itself in different ways.

Thus, it can develop under the form of cysts or nodules that may appear on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms.

Pimples are small bump looking infection, arising from the skin, which sometimes contain pus.

Blackheads are small formations, black, arising from the accumulation of a mixture of seborrhea and dead cells that block pores.

Points are small white or flesh-colored formations, arising from the blocking of pores;

Cysts are formed either just under the skin, or more deeper and contain materials whose consistency is either liquid or semi-solid.

Though not a dangerous disease, acne is quite annoying and can disfigure. When acne is severe, permanent scarring can occur.

Acne is a problem most common during adolescence, but the untreated correspondingly may get worse over time.
How does acne occur

Acne occurs when hair follicles alleyways with dead cells and fatty substances stemming from inside the sebaceous glands.

Sebum produced by the glands together with dead cells accumulates in follicles and solidify, forming a kind of stopper.

Causes acne

Family history and genetic factors – skin type is transmitted from hereditary one or both parents, so if one of them has a tendency to overactive sebaceous glands their children might be predisposed to such disease.

Hormonal activity, such as the period in women during puberty – the hormonal background may increase the levels of hormones in the blood, leading to a hyper secretion of sebaceous glands.

Stress, which leads to an additional removal of adrenal gland hormones – during the stress are eliminated a greater quantity of adrenergic hormones.

Overactive sebaceous glands – they enhance the development and excretion of excess sebum (fat) through the hair follicle.

Accumulation of dead skin cells in hair follicles – a dirty skin, creates conditions for accumulation of dead cells that will be more exposed to acne.

Bacteria in the pores, the body becomes allergic and inflammatory reactions develop – the main bacteria guilty for this is Propionibacterium acnes, who loves to live in such an environment as sebum block the hair follicles of dead skin cells.

Skin irritation and lesions of any kind will lead to inflammation – it will aggravate acne that it will overwhelm the body’s defense system and more.

Use of anabolic steroids – they can influence the hormonal background, which is already unstable at so many teenagers who suffer from acne.

Medicines containing halogens (Iodine, chlorine, bromine), lithium, barbiturates, androgens -

dermal exposure to different compounds of chlorine, chlorine dioxides, can increase the acne resistivity.
How to treat acne

1. First of all see a dermatologists, it is able to prescribe a treatment depending on your skin type and the extent of the problem.

2. Diet

To treat acne you must begin with a healthy diet in order to eliminate the toxins from the body.

Coffee, alcohol, tobacco, foods high in fat and sweets concentration must be removed from the menu.

It is recommended to eat: fresh juices of carrots, celery, beetroot and tomatoes, white fish, chicken or turkey without skin, boiled or grilled.

3. Less makeup

It is preferable to remove make up, to let your pores breathe.

4. Mask from fresh yeast, honey and wheat bran or rice flour

Dilute the yeast in a bowl containing boiled and cooled water, add honey and bran or flour to obtain a homogeneous paste. Spread on the skin, and after 30 minutes rinse with warm water. Spray the face with cold water, remove the paste and apply an ointment with marigold or propolis.

5. Sulfur Soap – highly recommended in these cases.

6. Also very effective are: chamomile infusions, tomato juice, grape juice, tincture of marigold, tea tree oil and the thyme.

7. Green tea is recommended to treat acne. Properties of antioxidant, antibacterial and astringent recommend it as one of the best product to treat oily skin with dilated pores or affected by acne. Apply warm compresses regularly on the clean skin with green tea, or spray concentrate tea after each cleansing.

Getting read of acne it is one of the most difficult tasks, because it can appear out of nowhere. Luckily there are special methods that will help you to get rid of acne in just 3 days. It is a method that will bring your life around.

Get a more detailed review of the product that helped me get my normal life back in just 3 days by fallowing this link: Acne Free

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Six Common Ingredients in Acne Medicine

November 10th, 2009

Author: Ingrid Lihan
Source: ezinearticles.com

Clogged follicle can be the reason for acne not clearing away. Some acne medicine offer short term relief while others give you long-term relief. There are some side effects that come with a few ingredients. Most go away with use. The most common ingredients in acne medicines are the six listed below.

Alcohol & Acetone

These two ingredients are the main ones used in many acne products especially cleansers. They work great in removing oil and dirt from the skin. Unfortunately, these same tow ingredients can cause the skin to burn or sting. Some dermatologists will tell you not to use products or medication with this in it if you have severe acne.

Salicylic Acid

This ingredient works to dissolve the breakouts by removing the dead skin cells stuck inside the hair follicle. This prevents clogged pores letting the oil and sebum flow through without causing infection. The first few days of use might bring on mild redness and stinging. A two percent mixture is all that is necessary. A stronger mixture might be needed if the acne is severe.

Benzoyl Peroxide

This is considered one of the most effective ingredients in acne medicine. It is an agent which kills bacteria and takes these same bacteria from the follicles. It will also help to dissolve the skin cells. Most acne medicine have about 2.5 percent in it but can reach as high as 10 percent. It will depend on how severe the acne is. Benzoyl peroxide is the best thing to use on early acne. It can dry the skin and scaling. It might also cause redness and swelling of the area.

Antibiotics

Some acne medicine has antibiotics in it to kill the bacteria present and to stop the spread of the acne. Some physicians give antibiotics to prevent scars. The antibiotic acne medication can come in oral form or tropical creams and ointments. They have a regular schedule of use and must be used within a certain period of time. Natural Tea Tree oil is a natural remedy to use in place of the antibiotics.

Sulfur

Sulfur is almost never used in acne medicine without something to accompany it. Sulfur is good for acne reduction, removing excess oil, and ridding the dead skin cells form the skin. It helps to dry the skin and can cause it to be sore especially at the beginning of treatment. If the problems continue, the sulfur must be stopped until the side effects go away. A lower dose may be used.

Isotretinoin

This acne medication ingredient helps to lower oil and sebum production. It will also help to sooth irritation and inflammation. The pores will also be unclogged and dead skin cells removed by the Isotretinoin. This ingredient can cause scaling of the skin and dryness especially around the lip area.

To find out about Acne Medicine and the ingredients more in depth, please take the time to research them and become more familiar with what they do at http://www.skinacneremedytreatmentproduct.com.

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Acne Scar – No Longer Visible

November 3rd, 2009

Author: Ingrid Lihan
Source: ezinearticles.com

Part of the problem with acne is that it leaves an acne scar at the site of the pimple or lesion, particularly if there is an attempt to pick at or squeeze the blackhead or whitehead associated with the condition. Deciding to treat the active part of the acne condition, namely the visible symptoms, means that a long term treatment program may be required. This is to deal with the scars from old blemishes that healed but left a scar. Essentially, removing a scar is typically a chore for a cosmetic surgeon and may require numerous sessions, depending upon the type of treatment that is appropriate.

Laser
An ugly acne scar is one of the residual effects of acne during adolescence. At a time when self esteem is lowest, many teenagers are troubled with blotches, eruptions, swelling, redness and blackheads. If these blemishes go untreated, they may leave a permanent scar that is even more traumatic that the blemish. Only a very small percentage of people have treatment to remove these permanent signs of the condition. A laser can be used by a cosmetic surgeon to specifically target and remove the raised scars or pits left by acne.

Dermabrasion
Roughened skin including minor pitting and thickened skin can often be improved by a process known as dermabrasion. Using a hand held tool that features a rotating brush or disk embedded with diamond dust resurfaces the skin. Only a particular type of acne scar is benefited by this type of procedure. It will lead to reddening since the skin surface is being polished away, going down a couple levels to newer skin cells. The skin that is damaged is scraped away, leaving a healthier and smoother skin surface in the process. It often requires eight to ten days for the skin to heal following the procedure.

Exfoliation
Exfoliation is an important part of the daily skin care routine for those who suffer from acne. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the skin along with dirt and oil. Exfoliation may not remove an acne scar, but it will help to prevent it when used as a part of a daily cleansing routine. Exfoliation is more a preventative measure than a remedial process. This process doesn’t have a lengthy healing time after the exfoliation as is the case with dermabrasion. Gentle is the key word for accomplishing the exfoliation part of your acne routine.

Psychological Factors
It is true that an acne scar can be removed physically, but remained as a blemish on the psychological level. Often, psychological counseling is necessary for those people who have been traumatized by the negative appearance of acne blemishes. Unfortunately, many people don’t take the extra step of seeking psychological counseling in order to boost their self image. A combination of cosmetic surgery and psychological counseling helps the acne sufferer to be healed physically and emotionally. The importance of physical appearance in today’s culture cannot be denied. Removing the scars from your body and your mind means you know you look your best.

The appearance of an Acne Scar on the face can be troubling especially to adolescents. Go to the website at http://www.skinacneremedytreatmentproduct.com for current information about treating such scars.

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