Top Ingredients to Avoid in Soap and Shampoos

Top Ingredients to Avoid in: Soap

BHT - Type of Concerns: Neurotoxicity, Endocrine disruption, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs).

DMDM HYDANTOIN - Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Contamination concerns: Formaldehyde.

FRAGRANCE - Type of Concerns: Neurotoxicity, Allergies/immunotoxicity.

METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE - Type of Concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

TRICLOSAN - Type of Concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Endocrine disruption, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs).

TRIETHANOLAMINE - Type of Concerns: Cancer, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

PABA (PARA-AMINOBENZOIC ACID) - Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Multiple, additive exposure sources, Biochemical or cellular level changes.

Top Ingredients to Avoid in: Shampoo

BHA - Type of concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Endocrine disruption, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

COAL TAR - (not to be confused with Pine Tar. Pine Tar comes from Pine Trees. Coal Tar comes from the Coal Industry). Type of concerns: Cancer, Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

DMDM HYDANTOIN - Type of Concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs).

FRAGRANCE - Type of Concerns: Neurotoxicity, Allergies/immunotoxicity

OXYBENZONE (BENZOPHENONE-3) - Type of concerns: Developmental/reproductive toxicity, Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Enhanced skin absorption, Biochemical or cellular level changes.

PARABEN - Type of Concerns: Developmental/reproductive toxicity, Endocrine disruption, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Miscellaneous, Multiple, additive exposure sources.

SODIUM METHYLPARABEN - Type of concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Biochemical or cellular level changes

SALICYLIC ACID - Types of concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Neurotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Multiple, additive exposure sources, Enhanced skin absorption.

TRIETHANOLAMINE - Type of Concerns: Cancer, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

Top Ingredients to Avoid in: Shaving Cream

BENZOCAINE - Type of Concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

BHA - Type of Concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Endocrine disruption, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

BHT - Type of Concerns: Neurotoxicity, Endocrine disruption, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs).

DMDM HYDANTOIN – Type of Concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Contamination concerns: Formaldehyde.

FRAGRANCE - Type of Concerns: Neurotoxicity, Allergies/immunotoxicity.

SALICYLIC ACID - Types of concerns: Violations, restrictions & warnings, Neurotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Multiple, additive exposure sources, Enhanced skin absorption.

SILICA - Type of Concerns: Cancer, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Biochemical or cellular level changes.

TRIETHANOLAMINE - Type of Concerns: Cancer, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive).

Rosemary Uses for Health and Skincare

By Van Le | Rosemary is a widely-used herb in many natural products, specifically natural skin care products.   Its use has been traced back to ancient and medieval times, when it was used as an antiseptic to care for wounds thanks to its restorative properties.  Rosemary is edible and is often used as a spice for cooking.

When added to food, rosemary provides key nutrition such as calcium, iron, and Vitamin B.  What is good for the body is also good for the skin, therefore, rosemary and its oil extracts have been used medicinally for hundreds of years.  In modern times, rosemary has been a wildly popular ingredient in many herbal skincare products and cosmetics.

Rosemary is an evergreen herb that is native to the Mediterranean region, and is known as the “dew of the sea” because it first grew predominantly along the Italian coast.  Today, rosemary can be grown in a typical garden with relative ease.  The leaves can be crushed and used as an herb for cooking, and the health and cosmetic benefits of this herb are plentiful.  Rosemary is popular in the kitchen as spice for fish, meat and poultry.

Outside the kitchen, rosemary oil improves digestion, boosts mental activities, and strengthens follicles for increased hair growth and stronger hair.  It is high in anti-oxidants, making it a key ingredient in the fight against tumors and cancer.  Rosemary stimulates brain activities, fights off free radicals, and is a key component in the fight against cancer.

The health benefits of rosemary are plentiful, but the cosmetic benefits are even more rewarding.

Also known as Rosmarinus Officinalis, rosemary is rich in minerals, has a pleasantly compelling smell, and contains powerful anti-inflammatories.  According to an article by Dr. Winston Craig, “The terpenoids in rosemary, such as rosmarinic acid, rosmanol, carnosol and ursolic acid provide effective anti-inflammatory benefits, while ursolic acid conveys anti-tumor properties.” When used on the skin it stimulates blood flow and helps improve skin functions, resulting in a healthy complexion.

A common indication of skin damage and aging skin is broken capillaries, a condition where capillary walls rip and blood seeps to the surface of the skin.  As a result, fine, red lines appear under the surface of the skin, creating an unpleasant look.  Rosemary has been known to reduce the appearance of broken capillaries.  It stimulates circulation, reduces the appearances of the red lines, which makes it an effective element in anti-aging products.  Rosemary is also effective in reducing under-eye puffiness since it is able to increase circulation and help drain toxins that accumulate in the area directly under the eyes.

Thanks to its antimicrobial and astringent properties, Rosemary is also used to treat symptom of acne.   When used as an astringent, rosemary helps cleanse the skin by clearing clogged pores, removing dead skin cells, and stimulating cell renewal.  It also prevents excess oil buildups that can lead to inflamed pores.

Rosemary can also be made into essential oils, teas, and powders.  Its soothing and rejuvenating properties are commonly used in aromatherapy for overall wellness.  As with everything, moderation is key.  Rosemary should not be used by those suffering from hypertension or epilepsy, and women who are breastfeeding should consult a doctor before consuming rosemary herbs.
Rosemary is a key ingredient in Vivoderm’s anti-acne mask, anti-aging mask, intense moisturizer, facial cleanser, facial toner, body butter and foot cream.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare, you can also link to http://http://antiagingmasks.com

Complementary and Alternative Health Practices

By: Van Le

Complementary and Alternative Practices towards a Healthy Lifestyle. Over the last century, doctors and researchers in the Western world have made several medical breakthroughs and significant discoveries in the fight against terminal diseases.  Such discoveries are key milestones towards finding the cure for diseases such as cancer and other illnesses, however, the idea of using complementary and alternative medicines, remedies, and holistic therapy to help manage a natural, healthier lifestyle is gaining popularity in the Western world.

Complementary and alternative medicine consists of practices that do not follow the norm of conventional medicine; complementary medicine is used in conjunction with conventional medicine, while alternative medicine is used in place of conventional treatment.  Some examples of complementary and alternative medicine include acupuncture, meditation/visualization, and the use of natural products.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a complementary medicine technique, is the practice of inserting tiny needles into very specific parts of the body to relieve pain and discomforts associated with conventional treatments.  According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), it is the oldest healing practice in the world, and works by restoring the body’s balance (ying and yang.)  Acupuncture is most popular for its ability to relieve pain and aches, but the idea of “cosmetic acupuncture” is also gaining attention as a less-drastic alternative to cosmetic surgeries.

It has been reported that those who undergo cosmetic acupuncture experience vibrant skin tone, reduced and finer wrinkles, and firmer skin.  A study in The Journal of Clinical Acupuncture states that 90% of cosmetic acupuncture patients experience notable improvement in their skin quality.  As with any medical procedure, acupuncture carries risks, and when considering an acupuncture treatment, it is important to examine the creditability and equipment of the practitioner.

Meditation/Visualization
Meditation is a complementary technique used to escape from the stress of our hectic lifestyles and reach a profound state of relaxation and calmness.

There are several types of meditation, including yoga and tai-chi.  Yoga consists of molding the body into postures, using controlled breathing, and focusing on the moment to escape from the day’s stress.  Tai-chi started as a form of martial arts but has transformed into a healing practice.  Those who practice tai-chi move their bodies slowly and mindfully while focusing on their breathing.  According to the Associated Press, tai-chi helps build a stronger immune system, which can help the body fight against shingles, a skin condition that cause rashes.  Visualization, also known as mental imagery, is a technique in which the mind focuses on a specific image.  Cancer patients sometimes use this technique to envision their bodies fighting off the disease.  Visualization can be used by anyone to relieve stress from a busy day.

Use of natural products
The popularity of natural products has increased exponentially in the last few years due to its ability to generate healthy skin from the inside out.  Products that contain natural ingredients as opposed to harsh chemicals are logically better for the body and skin.  From a diet filled with healthy choices to using natural skincare products, there are several ways to generate a healthy, more fulfilling lifestyle.  By choosing blueberries over Botox, you can achieve longer-lasting and healthier results.  Switch to an all-natural line of skin care products to give your skin a break from the preservatives and lab-generated chemicals that can wreak havoc years down the road.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare, you can also link to http://bestorganicnaturalskincare.com

Natural Healing with Aloe Vera

By: Van Le
The healing power of Aloe vera has been known for decades, dating back to the Egyptian era when it is believed that Cleopatra used it as a skincare remedy, and found in Greek history when it is believed that Alexander the Great used it to care for his army after battles.  Today, Aloe vera is widely used in many cosmetic products, anti-inflammatory creams, and some grocery store shelves even boast Aloe vera juice.

Aloe vera is a member of the succulent (water-retaining) plant family, and is also known as “lily of the desert” since researchers believe it originated in Africa.  There are over 250 known species of Aloe vera, and are relatively easy to care for, therefore increasing its popularity.  The spokes of Aloe vera plants are filled with a gel-like substance that is filled with a combination of enzymes, vitamins and minerals.  Dermatologists and cosmetic companies often extract the gel for use in their products.   Aloe vera is also considered an alternative treatment for high blood pressure and intestinal problems.

Aloe vera is a popular choice for the treatment of sunburn, since it contains a variety of enzymes and amino acids that are anti-inflammatory and speed up the skin’s healing process.  Many after-sun moisturizing creams contain Aloe, and for those who have access to actual Aloe plants, the gel can be applied directly on the affected area.

Aloe vera is a common ingredient in many cosmetic products, particularly anti-aging and anti-acne products due to its ability to generate healthier skin.  The combination of enzymes, vitamins and minerals in Aloe vera products increases oxygen flow, which toughens the skin tissues and provides protection from pollutants and dirt.  It also moisturizes the skin and increases its elasticity, which reduces wrinkles and signs of aging.  Used in conjunction with exfoliating products, Aloe vera can help control acne by helping shed dead skin cells and reduce redness.
Once Alternative, Now Mainstream

Not so long ago, herbal products or foods deemed “natural” were considered less than desirable by the mainstream public.  The Industrial Revolution not only changed the face of production and how we worked, it changed what we ate and used for our health.  Mass-produced, new chemical compounds in fancy packaging quickly replaced the ‘old-fashioned’ herbal remedies used by our grandmothers.

While Aloe vera never completely fell out of favor, by the 1970’s and 80’s use of medical plants and herbs to treat ailments and skin conditions was considered unconventional and provided mostly by naturalists and alternative therapists. In the new millennium, science and technology have not proven to be the miracle we were expecting.  Today, modern science is re-discovering what our already ancestors knew.  Aloe vera and similar natural treatments provide vital healing, nourishing and regenerative qualities that no chemical lab can re-create.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare, you can also link to http://bestfacemask.com

Sunscreens, UVB and UVA Rays

By: Van Le (with additional information from the FDA website)

With summer lurking just around the corner, it’s almost time to tie up that new bathing suit, fire up the grill, and most importantly, slather on the sunscreen. The importance of sun care escalates as knowledge of skin cancer increases in the United States, and the National Cancer Institute estimates that there are more than one million new cases of skin cancer in 2009 alone. Still, loyal sunbathers and frequent beach-goers are able to enjoy some fun in the sun thanks to the vast array of sunscreen available. Sunscreens are available in several forms, including lotion, sprays, ointments, and sticks, and are often labeled with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which can range from 2 to 50. The higher the SPF, the more sun protection, and most dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher.

Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun, and too much exposure to these rays can cause sunburn and wrinkles. Long term sun exposure can lead to cancer, which is the most common type of cancer, according to the American Cancer Association. Most sunscreens contain zinc oxide, which as the ability to filter UVA and UVB rays to protect the skin. Zinc oxide has been used in skin products for many years and can be used with all skin types.

UVradiation, a known carcinogen, can have a number of harmful effects on the skin. The two types of UV radiation that can affect the skin—UVA and UVB—have both been linked to skin cancer and a weakening of the immune system. They also contribute to premature aging of the skin and cataracts (a condition that impairs eyesight), and cause skin color changes.

UVA Rays

UVA rays, which are not absorbed by the ozone layer, penetrate deep into the skin and heavilycontribute to premature aging. Up to 90 percent of the visible skin changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by sun exposure.

UVB Rays

These powerful rays, which are partially absorbed by the ozone layer, mostly affect the surface of the skin and are the primary cause of sunburn. Because of the thinning of the ozone layer, the effects of UVB radiation will pose an increased threat until the layer is restored in the latter half of the 21st century.

The following table from the FDA lists these ingredients and includes information regarding the type and amount of ray protection that they provide and their class.

Is a Suntan Healthy?

Just remember, there is no such thing as a healthy suntan. Any change in your natural skin color is a sign of skin damage. Every time your skin color changes after sun exposure, your risk of developing sun-related ailments increases.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare, you can also link to http://bestorganicnaturalskincare.com

Dead Sea Salt Orgins and Treatments

Dead Sea Salt Has been in the news quite a bit. There are a lot of people who have come across this product in malls, friends, or traveling and using something out of the norm. You may be wondering what “dead Sea” salts are….

Health effects and therapies

The Dead Sea area has become a major center for health research and treatment for several reasons. The mineral content of the water, the very low content of pollens and other allergens in the atmosphere, the reduced ultraviolet component of solar radiation, and the higher atmospheric pressure at this great depth each have specific health effects. For example, persons suffering reduced respiratory function from diseases such as cystic fibrosis seem to benefit from the increased atmospheric pressure.

Sufferers of the skin disorder psoriasis also benefit from the ability to sunbathe for long periods in the area due to its position below sea level and subsequent result that many of the sun’s harmful UV rays are reduced. Thus, the region’s climate and low elevation have made it a popular center for several types of therapies:

* Climatotherapy: Treatment which exploits local climatic features such as temperature, humidity, sunshine, barometric pressure and special atmospheric constituents.
* Heliotherapy: Treatment that exploits the biological effects of the sun’s radiation.
* Thalassotherapy: Treatment that exploits bathing in Dead Sea water.

Since the age of Cleopatra, the soothing and healing benefits of Dead Sea minerals have been no secret. For most of us we don’t have the luxury to go to the Dead Sea and experience this first hand. So, manufacturers from the area are crafting products that we can use in the comfort of our home that give us the benefits from these salts and minerals.

What are products made from the Dead Sea? The Dead Sea region is considered to be the area between Jordon and Israel. It is the lowest inhabited place on earth. Because of the unique conditions the region offers, the sea contains a diverse number of minerals. These include Magnesium (salts), Potassium, Calcium and Bromide. The Dead Sea contains the highest combination of mineral compared to any other body of water on earth.

Scientists have been able to extract these mineral and formulate them into products that stimulate our skin’s cells allowing it to “heal” itself. Bathing has become a necessary evil in our daily routines. We must shower to keep clean so that our family and co-workers can be near us but in the process we are washing away natural oils produced by our skin and causing it to dry out. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of our skin in other ways.

What makes Dead Sea Products so special? The all natural nature and the fact that these products are not tested on animals are two big reasons to put these products on the top of your list! But putting all that aside, being able to use these products in your home is revolutionary. If you were able to go to a spa at the Dead Sea you are going to pay between $50 and $100 for once facial. For much less than that, you can treat your skin on a regular basis using a combination of a mud mask, a facial cleanser, toner and a moisturizing cream.

What types of products are there? Common believed benefits from Dead Sea Salts and Minerals include the following: acne fighting, alleviation of effects from Psoriasis and Eczema, Anti-Wrinkle and Anti-Aging through collagen stimulation, cellulite creams as well as the general maintenance and revitalization of your skin.

You might think these products are only for women. But men are now finding the Dead Sea products to provide supreme benefits to their skin as well. Products that include anti-aging, after shave balms, lotions for problem areas like hands and feet as well as other organic skin care products are specially formulated for a man’s body.

The sea is called “dead” because its high salinity prevents macroscopic aquatic organisms, such as fish and aquatic plants, from living in it, though minuscule quantities of bacteria and microbial fungi are present.

In times of flood, the salt content of the Dead Sea can drop from its usual 35% salinity to 30% or lower. The Dead Sea temporarily comes to life in the wake of rainy winters. In 1980, after one such rainy winter, the normally dark blue Dead Sea turned red. Researchers from Hebrew University found the Dead Sea to be teeming with a type of algae called Dunaliella. The Dunaliella in turn nourished carotenoid-containing (red-pigmented) halobacteria whose presence caused the color change. Since 1980, the Dead Sea basin has been dry and the algae and the bacteria have not returned in measurable numbers.

Facial Care for Men

By Ravi Thiagarajan

When it comes to skincare, there is always a tendency among men to think, “Who cares, I’m a guy.” Lack of motivation to take care of their faces will give most men dull skin.. Sometimes a guy might think “Well, I lift weights, that’s enough,” or “Facial care is for girls.” That could not be any further from the truth. Good facial care helps in retaining proper skin texture in the long run.

Gentlemen, if you care what the ladies think, your facial care is extremely important. It is never good for a guy’s self confidence if your date cringes when you lean in to kiss her. That is why it is totally necessary to incorporate some kind of male facial care routine to help keep your skin looking clear and healthy. Here we focus on some basic yet important things that can make a big difference.

Shaving
For guys who aspire to keep a cleanly shaved face, we are forced to deal with the monotonous task of shaving each and every morning. Too many guys rush through it or give a poor effort, which results in redness, bumps and irritation. Shaving is something that should be done carefully in its entirety.

Experts claim having is best done after your shower because it makes your skin soft and removes the dirt and dead cells. Many guys should use a shaving cream and razor that will give them a very close shave but also protect their skin at the same time. With so many shaving creams on the market shelves, it is sometimes tough to decide which one is better than the other. By not continuing with one, we may spoil the benefits of using the same product.

Experimenting is good thing but long term effects are negative as your skin tries to adjust to ever-changing ingredients. I find many new herbal creams that are made by smaller, organic companies to be better than then the usual chemical-laden choices when it comes to men’s skin care on the market. Their products contain the vitamin E and Aloe to help protect and smooth skin as well as hydrate and moisturize. Use of an effective razor is equally important. Again selecting a proper blade is essential. Gillette sells its Mach3 line of new blades in different sizes and numbers now, which makes me even more confused. They started with twin, then came the ‘3 slot super shave’ and now it’s the ‘4 cutter fine shine!’ Any of these variations of razors will do the job, really well or if you prefer electric that’s fine too. Just make sure the blades are clean and sharp – very few women are attracted to werewolves.

Acne
Acne is the mother of all skin problems and it is just a horror if you are trying to impress the ladies. If you are a college guy, you most likely have past your worst acne stage but you never know what Mother Nature has in store for you. Acne becomes the prime concern when men are in their 20s and 30s - just about the time you are dating or looking for that first big job - where appearances are the key. Busy lifestyles have added stress that according to some reports, has created acne issues rising from 20% to 60% last two years. So, “why me?” you might ask.

The short version of the complicated answer is this. Acne can be caused by a number of things – hormones, diet, poor hygiene, lack of cleansing – or none of these things. It all depends on your body chemistry. But once you have it, you just want it to go away. Before choosing an acne product, familiarize yourself with the ingredients. Some brands use harsh chemicals to kill acne bacteria. The down side to this is these chemicals can also negatively affect your skin in the long run.

There are hundreds of various adult skin care products for acne on the market today. Most of these products require at least a month of steady usage to get results. Be sure that you are giving whatever product you choose at least 4-6 weeks before you discontinue use. If you stop using a product sooner than this then you could risk wasting time and money on a product that otherwise would’ve cleared your skin.

Dry Skin
Among other skin problems, dry skin is definitely one to be aware of. Normally healthy skin is coated with a layer of lipids and some fatty substances, which keep the skin supple and soft. Dry skin has a low level of sebum and can be prone to sensitivity. The skin has a parched look caused by its inability to retain moisture. It usually feels “tight” and uncomfortable after washing unless some type of moisturizer or skin cream is applied. Chapping and cracking are signs of extremely dry, dehydrated skin. Dryness is exacerbated by wind, extremes of temperature and air-conditioning, all of which cause the skin to flake, chap and feel tight. This type of skin is tightly drawn over the bones. It looks dull, especially on the cheeks and around the eyes. There may be tiny expression lines in these spots and at the comers of the mouth.

Apply Moisturizer Frequently
Both genders are capable of getting dry skin and the best way to prevent dry skin from rearing its ugly head is to consistently use a facial moisturizing lotion on an everyday basis. There are many tips and advice on how to take care of your face. However, the most common and consistent advice is to avoid the sun and moisturize your face.

Ok, my skincare lesson is over.   Here’s a little joke on a lighter note:

Every man believes every woman’s ultimate fantasy is to have two men at once.-
While a recent sociological study verified this, what men don’t realize is that, in women’s fantasies, one man cooks while the other cleans!

Ravi Thiagarajan is a freelance writer and intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. He has published numerous articles for the leading newspaper The Times of India, local affiliate Anand Plus.

For more information and latest findings on natural skincare link to ORGANICSKINCAREINFO.NET
http://newbeautifulskin.com