Personal Hygiene Is The Maintenance Of Healthy Practices

Hygiene ? is a science of preserving and promoting the health of both the individual and the community. It has many aspects: personal hygiene (proper living habits, cleanliness of body and clothing, healthful diet, a balanced regimen of rest and exercise); domestic hygiene (sanitary preparation of food, cleanliness, and ventilation of the home); public hygiene (supervision of water and food supply, containment of communicable disease, disposal of garbage and sewage, control of air and water pollution); industrial hygiene (measures that minimize occupational disease and accident); and mental hygiene (recognition of mental and emotional factors in healthful living). The World Health Organization promotes hygienic practices on an international level.

We will talk about personal hygiene which is very important for men's health. Good personal hygiene is an aid to health, beauty, comfort, and social interactions. It directly aids in disease prevention and/or disease isolation. (That is, good personal hygiene will help keep one healthy and thus avoid illness. If one is ill, good hygiene can reduce one's contagiousness to others, for instance, in one family.) Washing (with water) is the most common example of hygienic behavior. Washing is often done with soap or detergent which helps to remove oils and to break up dirt particles so they may be washed away. Personal hygienic practice, such as frequent body washing, has a profound impact on reducing the spread of disease. This is because it kills or removes disease-causing microbes (germs) in the immediate surroundings. For instance, washing hands after using the toilet and before handling food reduces the chance of spreading E. coli bacteria and Hepatitis A, both of which are spread from fecal contamination of food.

Maintaining personal hygiene enhances an individual?s physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, using bidet leads to better personal hygiene and can provide therapeutic benefits to sensitive genital and rectal areas.

Who uses bidet and why?

?The bidet can and is be used by both men and women. Bidets offer the user a hands-free and supposedly superior water wash in place of the wiping and occasionally irritating action of toilet paper. An invaluable aid to person hygiene, the bidet is gaining popularity among senior citizens, the disabled and those with impaired motor functions or incontinence.

?Bidets are also used for sitz baths. A sitz bath (also called a hip bath) is a type of bath in which only the hips and buttocks are soaked in water or saline solution. Its name comes from the German verb ?sitzen?, meaning to sit.

?A sitz bath is used for patients who have had surgery in the area of the rectum, or to ease the pain of hemorrhoids, uterine cramps, prostate infections, painful ovaries, and/or testicles. It is also used to ease discomfort from infections of the bladder, prostate, or vagina. Inflammatory bowel diseases are also treated with sitz baths. Bidets are principally used to wash and clean the external genitalia and the anus, as well as the skin near these areas. They may also be used to clean any other part of the body; they are convenient for cleaning the feet for example. Despite appearing similar to a toilet, it would be more accurate to compare it to the washbasin or bathtub. In fact, the bidet makes an excellent baby bath. Anyone who has mobility problems and finds it difficult to get into a bathtub, or is afraid of slipping in the shower, may find a bidet an excellent solution for maintaining personal hygiene.

Bidets are made in several different designs. The classic one has a faucet, which pours water into a china basin. The basin can be plugged and filled if necessary, or the water can be allowed to drain away. Modern bidets, as a Bidan, have a nozzle that propels an arc of water up into the air. This jet of water is angled to connect directly with the genital area. Some models, like Bidan Turbo, have a warm air jet to dry the body instead of using a toilet paper. It is strongly recommended for hemorrhoid sufferers. The newest is travel bidet (or bidanit), which is suitable for people-on-the-go. Additionally, there are special bidet seats for disabled people: electronic and pneumatic. The electronic bidan (or bidet) activates by remote control and the pneumatic one by pneumatic pads enabling the disabled to operate it independently and efficiently while retaining privacy.

Popularity
Bidets are common bathroom fixtures in some European countries (especially France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal), Latin America (especially Argentina found in approximately 90% of households), the Middle East and some parts of Asia. They may be installed both in private homes and hotels. In Japan, bidets are so common that they are often present in public toilet facilities.

The bidet is not normally used for cleaning the anus after defecation (which is done with toilet paper), but for optional supplementary washing, or for daily personal hygiene.

History
A bidet has allowed men and women since possibly the Crusades (11th to the 13th centuries) to wash feet, hair, beards, genitals and perineum. The bather usually rides it like a pony; pony is what the word meant in the French of 400 or so years ago. This odd etymology exists because early bidets were normally on a stand, which the user would straddle, not unlike mounting a horse.

The bidet appears to have been an invention of French furniture makers in the late 17th or early 18th century, although no exact date or inventor is known. The earliest written reference to the bidet is in 1710.

By 1900, thanks to the plumbing improvements of the Victorian era, the bidet (and chamber pot) moved from the bedroom to the bathroom.

1960 saw the introduction of the electronic bidet (bidan), an attachment that connects on to existing toilet arrangements - ideal for bathrooms lacking the space for both a separate bidet and toilet.

More historic facts:

?In 1750, the bidet ? seringue appeared. It provided an upward spray through the use of a hand-pump fed by a reservoir.

?Until the 1900's the bidet was confined to the bedroom, along with the chamber pot (a bucket that served as a toilet.)

?Modern plumbing brought the bidet into the bathroom and W.C. Where it sits on a basin instead of a regular toilet seat.

In conclusion, the bidet was developed for personal hygiene maintenance to limit the spread of infection and help prevent urinary tract infections. It gives a pleasant ?looked after? feeling and should be used by all family members.

Do you have any questions?

Please, contact:
uzanr@bezeqint.net
Sergei Tereschenko

Experienced, versatile freelance writer. Strong research skills, clear and concise writing, compassionate journalism.

Facial Skincare Tips: Scrubs Masks and Exfoliation

Your skin is your body?s largest organ. It?s also the first thing that most people notice about you. It shields your bones, muscles, and blood vessels. Skin is so vital, so why do people not take better care of it?

Not drinking enough water, going out in the sun without sunscreen, and using harsh chemical products adds to the damage. There are a myriad of products on the market nowadays to help you keep your skin healthy, among them masks, scrubs and exfoliation products.

Before settling on a skincare regimen, you have to know what skin type you have. If you?re lucky, you might have normal skin ? not too dry or too oily, but just right. More people will have combination skin where there are parts of the face and body which are dry and other parts oily. Or, you might just be all oily or all dry skinned. No matter which type skin you have, there are products made specially for you.

Facial Masks: Facial mask products can be found for any skin type or condition. Do you suffer from acne or blackheads? There are facial masks that you apply, let dry dry and then peel off. Dead skin covering blackheads will become unclogged which helps clear them up. There are also facial masks that you apply and allow to dry, like mud masks. When you are done, you wash your face with warm water to remove the mud mask.

Mud masks have a number of benefits, including oil control. You skin will glow with health, not shine with oil. The impurities in your skin?s pores are removed by the mud mask, and appearance of those pores will be minimized. Pimple growth is lessened and blackheads dissolve and wash away.

Scrubs and Exfoliaters: You can consider exfoliating like using very fine sandpaper for your skin. You will be using a mildly abrasive material that buffs away dead skin cells, leaving glowingly healthy skin in its place. Exfoliating has several benefits. First, old dead skin cells making your complexion dull are scrubbed off, leaving new fresh skin cells. Additionally, after exfoliation, it is easier for skin to absorb moisturizers and other skin treatments.

If your complexion is normal to oily, exfoliating is helpful three to four times a week. For drier skin, exfoliation should only be done one to two times a week maximum. You should establish a skincare routine that includes all of these products, and adds a cleaner and moisturizer. You will keep your skin healthy far longer and feel better as well.

Visit Groominguy.com, where you can read more about treating oily skin and permanent body hair removal.

Hot Tubs Inside and Out

Hot tubs are a great way to relax after a long day at work. They are also beneficial for those who have medical conditions or injuries.

Having your own hot tub can be very convenient. But, before deciding on buying a hot tub, you will need to choose one of the many varieties of spa that are available.

There are many varieties available and one may be customized suit your needs and available space.

There are both indoor and outdoor versions of hot tubs.

Indoor Hot Tub

An indoor hot tub generally can be found in a bathroom and is made of fiberglass. Similar to a regular bathtub you would see in a home, these hot tubs, sometimes called whirlpool baths or Jacuzzis, are filled with water for each use than drained when your soaking is complete.

Most indoor hot tubs hold one or two people simply because the available space is limited to the standard size bathroom. You still get jet options to concentrate water sprays to various parts of the body for a soothing water massage.

Indoor hot tubs come in a variety of shapes and colors to match your bathroom decor. They also come in a variety of seat types including ones you can lounge all the way back in or round, deep tubs to sink into.

Having a hot tub in your own home can be relaxing and enjoyable. Surround it with candles or soft lighting and add some plants to create a soothing atmosphere. Sinking into the tub after a hard day with some soft music or nature sounds in the background. You have your own mini vacation right in your own home.

Outdoor Hot Tub

Outdoor hot tubs also come in a variety of styles but are generally either a round or octagon shape. Many are made of wood and when installed outside typically have some type of decking surrounding it.

You can get a standard Jacuzzi with a bench all the way around it. Or you can even find models that have reclining chairs. Jets and waterfalls are also features that can come with the hot tub to add to the relaxing benefits and ambiance.

A pool spa is used for people who have plenty of room in their yard and who want the best of both worlds for their swimming and relaxation pleasure. The spa is attached to the pool and has heated water while the pool is a larger area to allow for swimming and exercise.

You can dive into the pool for some exercise and then back into the hot tub where you can warm up and relax your muscles after the invigorating workout.

Finally...

You must decide if you prefer an indoor or outdoor hot tub considering the space you have available and what you will use it for.

At the dealership, do a dry run on all the types available and some research on the best brands and models. Your hot tub dealer will be able to assist you and answer your questions ensuring you get the correct hot tub to suit your needs.

Louis Zhang helps you buy the right hot tub that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Go to Hot Tub Supplies for health and safety tips, great deals and information on how to choose a hot tub.

Louis's Del.icio.us page is at Louis' Page

Easing Your Distress with a Migraine Remedy

My first wife had migraine headaches. The throbbing was in the temples of her head. Her migraine remedy was to take over the counter pain medications to relieve her pain. For some reason I did not like the idea of eating of those pain relievers. I used to think that there had to be a better way.

Are you suffering from headaches?

According to the National Headache Foundation (NHF) tension headaches affect nearly 78% of the adult population. 13% of the population suffers from migraines. Because the cause of migraines varies greatly, one migraine remedy may help in one person may trigger an attack in another. The suggestions here are guidelines for those who suffer regularly from tension headaches which may have an identifiable physical cause.

An easy migraine remedy is to check for aspartame in the foods you eat.

Some headache sufferers notice a connection with consuming or drinking foods with aspartame. For those who are sensitive to the compound read the label before you eat the food. The aspartame may promote blood vessels to expand in the brain. This can initiate a headache. Eliminating aspartame from your diet can make a huge difference.

Caffeine is used to contend with headaches. Its proprieties can boost pain medication in providing relief and can be sought and found in treatments to relieve migraines. However, more than a safe level of caffeine can have a 'rebound' effect and actually concern headaches. If you suffer from regular headaches you should avoid daily use of caffeinated beverages such as coffee and certain sodas.

Another migraine remedy according to the McKinley Health Center, should be to do without tobacco. This migraine remedy can be a problem solver for many ailments.

Some headaches also seem to be aggravated by more than a safe level of sun. Excessive exercise outdoors and lack of hydration can contribute to headaches. Keep eyes shaded and be sure to drink plenty water when outdoors.

What you may think is a sinus headache may actually be a migraine. A consultation with your specialist may determine if you should switch to a migraine remedy.

According to the NHF, migraine headaches caused by stress should respond to reducing the stress. Over-the-counter analgesics can also promote migraines. However, if headaches occur almost daily you need to look for ways of dealing with the stress and discuss other options with your health care specialist. Consistent use of over the counter applications can actually induce headaches. Stopping with all the over the counter drugs can be one alternative. This migraine remedy may need the approval of your doctor.

Leading a healthy and active lifestyle has many benefits, including a reduction of migraine type headaches. Combining a healthy lifestyle with avoidance of triggers may improve your headache illness. This may be your best migraine remedy.

Feel free to pass this on to anyone you think would benefit from reading it.

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Hispanics and Obesity The Worrying Truth

What is the link between Hispanics and obesity? Are people of Hispanic origin more prone to obesity than others?

Respected Hispanic trend watcher Jaun G Tornoe feels there is enough anecdotal and scientific data supporting the link between Hispanics and obesity to raise warning flags?

One of the culprits he identifies is the huge choice of cheap, fast food and sugary drinks on offer to newly arrived Latino immigrants, many of whom come from extremely deprived backgrounds?

Fast Foods and Obesity - a Warning From a Friend...

In a recent blog, Tornoe recounts how, as a new immigrant himself, a friend had warned him of this danger...

(He) told me right after I moved into the U.S. to be careful with the junk food... He noticed that many new immigrants went crazy with the excessive food offerings this country offers.

If they are not careful, they will watch their waistline be a victim of over choice in just a couple of months.

Victims of Good Intentions...

Second and third generation Hispanic families are also at risk. Ironically, they're largely victims of their parents' good intentions.

Generally speaking, back in Latin America, a chubby baby or little kid is the obvious sign of healthiness (compared with the unfortunate scars malnutrition leaves on many persons South of the Border), writes Torno.

What better way for parents to feel like they are doing a good job taking care of their offspring, than to show all those around them their chubby kids? then the bad eating habits just take control over the little kid?s life and all the adversities obesity brings begin to show up in the kid?s life.

The Bigger is Better Myth

This point is reinforced by an article in another authoritative source of Hispanic news, Hispanicbusiness.com?

?It doesn?t do to tell a mother her chubby baby isn?t healthy and to cut the fat early for a lifetime of health.

We have to change the perceptions of a community where the parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles are overweight and don?t consider that a problem... We need to help the community see that bigger isn?t necessarily better,? says the article.

Hispanics are Not Alone

It's worth mentioning that Hispanics are not alone in this. In my home country, South Africa, many of my countrymen and women struggle with obesity and its associated ills, like diabetes and heart disease.

The chief culprit is the readily available processed food and the rapid spread of fast food outlets. The past decade has brought long-awaited political freedom and increasing prosperity. The flipside is a growing obesity problem.

In people for whom poverty and near starvation still loom large, combating the bigger is better myth is extremely difficult.

Research into Hispanics and Obesity links

There have also been several academic studies of Hispanics and obesity. A survey conducted in May 2004 for Kellogg by La Opini?n/El Diario de la Prensa Market Research Center, shows Latino families not exercising at recommended levels resulting in rising obesity rates among them.

Hispanics and obesity links are also under the spotlight in a five-year study at the University of Texas at El Paso. UTEP has received a $4.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to study and reduce health disparities among Hispanics.

The five-year grant will establish the Center for the Advancement of Minority Health and Health Disparities Research at UTEP. The grant will also help recruit and train faculty and will be used to disseminate research results to the community.

So while its clear that Latino Obesity is a large and growing problem, there is also growing awareness of the problem.

Alan Cooper is a journalist with 20 year's experience and the publisher of ObesityCures.com, a site with the ambitious aim of being a one-stop-shop for impartial information on obesity and weight loss solutions - including fad diets, prescription weightloss pills, natural weightloss aides, and the link between fast foods and obesity.

For more on hispanics and obesity, and related issues, including links to the sources quoted in this article, visit http://www.ObesityCures.com/hispanics-and-obesity.html

Signs of Cerebral Palsy

Depending on a child?s age, there are different signs that may suggest the presence of cerebral palsy. A newborn infant with difficulty in suckling, evacuating the bowels, or breathing should be carefully evaluated, as these are all warning signs of cerebral palsy. Infants may also have abnormal reflexes. As an infant grows, consistent use of one part of the body over the other, or consistently favoring certain postures over others, may also be signs of cerebral palsy. An infant with cerebral palsy may be unusually floppy or stiff, or retain certain reflexes that are normally present at birth but typically disappear as a baby grows. Lack of facial expressions, not following movements with the eyes, not following sounds with head movements, and lack of a response to human voices also suggests something may be wrong. Infants and children with cerebral palsy may be unable to roll over, crawl, sit up, smile or walk or only be able to do so with help. Grasping or playing with toys may be impossible.

Other signs of cerebral palsy depend on the type of cerebral palsy a patient has. Spastic diplegics have legs that may cross at the knees and a typical ?scissors? gait. Patients with spastic hemiparesis have uncontrollable tremors in one half of the body. If athetoid cerebral palsy is present, slow writhing movements of the extremities, face or tongue may be present along with grimacing and drooling. Ataxic cerebral palsy patients have an unsteady, wide-based gait, difficulty performing fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt, and intention tremors that occur while performing voluntary movements.

Because cerebral palsy can be difficult to diagnose, any sign of developmental delays, abnormal movements or abnormal posture in an infant or small child should immediately be brought to the attention of a physician.

Cerebral Palsy Lawyers provides detailed information about cerebral palsy lawyers, ataxic cerebral palsy lawyer, athetoid cerebral palsy lawyer, spastic cerebral palsy lawyer and more. Cerebral Palsy Lawyers is the sister site of Brain Injury Lawyers.

Stevia The Perfect Sweetener Whoops Supplement

We are all aware that sugar is not our friend. Sugar increases insulin levels and may lead to a myriad of diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, inflammation, premature aging and so on.

Artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal) and Splenda come with their own set of debilitating and damaging effects. These chemical substitutes are not the answer for good health or for caloric restriction. Aspartame for example has been linked to brain cancer, emotional disorders, seizures, and birth defects. More than 75% of all non-drug complaints to the FDA are about Aspartame. These side effects are but a small sampling of the 100’s of adverse reactions caused by Aspartame.

Animal research has linked Splenda (succulous) with enlarged liver and kidneys, shrunken thymus glands, reduced growth rate and aborted pregnancies. Available only since 1999, the reports of adverse effects on humans is beginning to evolve, but understand that people having adverse reactions may not make the connection.

Reducing or quitting sugar altogether is beneficial to good health. Yet, we all know how very hard this is to do. In our house, we have consciously reduced sugar to almost nothing. We do however, need a bit of sweetener on occasion, for example to sweeten lemon aid, ice tea, coffee, whole grain cereal, oatmeal etc. We therefore recommend choosing Stevia over sugar or artificial sweeteners.

What is Stevia?

Stevia is a non caloric sweetener, an herb, native to Paraguay. It has been used as a sweetener for centuries in Paraguay and decades in Japan without a single complaint regarding harmful effects. This small green plant bears leaves which have a delicious and refreshing taste that is 10-15 times sweeter than table sugar. Stevia extracts called steviosides, claim as much as 200-300 times the sweetness of table sugar.

Stevia is a natural dietary supplement which studies have shown offers a bounty of health benefits. Here are just some of the nutrients found in the Stevia leaf.

Vitamin A & C, Phosphorus, Potassium, Riboflavin, Fiber, Protein, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Calcium

Because the human body does not metabolize the sweet compound in Stevia, called glycoside, (causing the body to pass it through normal channels without raising blood sugar) it is an excellent sugar substitute for those wishing to lose weight.

Research carried out in Japan and South America, clearly demonstrates the beneficial effects of Stevia in regulating blood sugar levels and supporting the pancreas, reducing the symptoms of diabetes and hypoglycemia. Other traditional uses of Stevia are to lower elevated blood pressure (hypertension), as a digestive aid, to reduces gas and stomach acidity, and inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay.

Stevia is widely used all over the world, from Japan (claiming 41% of the sweetener market, including sugar), China, Germany, Israel, South Korea and so on. And we repeat, with no reports of toxicity. In the US, the FDA banned this natural non-caloric alternative to sugar and artificial sweeteners in 1991. But, since the passage of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), Stevia can be sold legally in the United States, but only as a dietary supplement. Why?…Well, money talks and pockets and influence run deep.

Many companies today are using Stevia as a sweetener (whoops! dietary supplement) in nutrition bars, meal replacement drinks, protein powders, etc. And generally, you don’t have to go to the health food store to find Stevia. Most grocery stores are now stocking it. If yours does not, just ask. I’m sure they won’t mind stocking it. Ours didn’t.

If you give Stevia a try, be patient, it may not suit you the first few times you try it but believe me, soon you’ll wonder why you ever used anything else. Stevia is actually good for your health! It’s a no brainer! Do yourself and your family a big favor and try Stevia like our family has. It just may be a health changing experience.

Stevia, a sweet reward on the road to…TRUE HEALTHY LIVING NOW!

Due to personal health issues we have been researching health & fitness for the last five years. The information we have obtained has helped us and our family members get off pharmaceutical drugs and regain a level of health we had never known. Please visit us at http://www.truehealthylivingnow.blogspot.com.

Wonderful Foaming Honey Foot Bath at Home

I imagine you can tell me at length about how tired your feet and legs get after your busy day. When?s the last time you got to treat yourself to a day at the spa? Even if you had the time, it?s not too often you can afford the $100 cost of a simple, relaxing, foot soak.

Doesn?t that sound nice? A relaxing foot soak at a spa. So I put together this simple recipe so you can have that soothing soak with ingredients you probably already have at home, and can whip up immediately.

***

Step 1. Create this wonderful foaming honey foot bath at home.

Here?s what you need:

1 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Liquid Soap (I used dish soap)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
2 tablespoons Sweet Almond Oil

The almond oil was the only things that sounded like it was tough to find, but my wife and I found it at the chain drugstore at the corner of our street. Just take a look in the beauty/cosmetic aisle.

Mix all these ingredients together in a bowl and its ready for your foot bath. Note: If you want to make this stuff in a large quantity to save for later, you can bump up all the ingredients to something like this:

? cup Honey
? cup Liquid Soap (I used dish soap)
1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
1 cup Sweet Almond Oil

Now you can save this in a bottle and save some time for next time.

Step 2. Find yourself a foot bath

These days you can get a fancy, space-age, foot bath for about $20. They promise they do all sorts of things like vibration, bubbles, and heat. I haven?t tried one myself, but for $20 that probably isn?t a bad experiment.

My wife however didn?t need one as she had me volunteer to provide all the scrubbing and massaging for her.

Wait! Hon, I don?t recall you ever offering me a foot bath?

So anything around the house that can submerse your feet just above the ankle is going to work here. We ended up using a disposable aluminum roasting pan.

Yes it was brand new and didn?t have roasted meat in it!

Step 3. Fill up your foot bath

Put your mixed up concoction from Step 1 into your foot bath and fill with warm water.

Please be real careful with the water temperature. Do this by triple checking the temperature of the water with your hands when it?s done. And if you are doing this for a spouse make sure you understand their taste in temperature.

I speak from experience here. I got a little lazy, and didn?t judge the hotness of the water. Although my wife was a trooper and tried to go along anyways. I could tell from her grimace and refusal to dip more than like a toe into the water, that I made it too hot.

Step 4. Soak for 10 minutes

After I got the temperature of the water right, we soaked her feet for 10 minutes. There is all sorts of good stuff going on now during this soak.

The soap is obviously cleaning all sorts of impurities from your feet. I can?t even explain how many things the honey is doing. Here is a short list:

1) Apparently honey forms hydrogen peroxide which is a great anti bacterial agent. So there is goes cleansing your feet some more.

2) Honey contains antioxidants. Health news constantly revolves around us getting more antioxidants. So without me getting all biologist on us, I?ll just confirm that getting more antioxidants on our skin and in our diet is really super great!

3) Honey is also a terrific humectant. All that means is it makes a great moisturizer.

***

Just knowing about this foot bath, you can get started on your at-home foot spa. So take 15 minutes tonight and pamper yourself. Those feet are going to feel so soft, especially in a comfy pair of flip flops.

Another great way for women readers to treat their feet is to slide them into a pair of ultra-comfortable flip flops. Get a pair at http://www.yourflipflops.com.

Or if you?d like our FREE newletter with more articles about pampering your feet, send a blank email to mailto:flipflops@aweber.com

Acne Skin Care and AntiAging Skin Care Products Deciphering The Ingredients

You?ve heard the terms Alpha-hydroxy Acids, Beta-hydroxy Acid, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Copper Peptide, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, etc. What do these scientific terms really mean? How do they help your skin?

Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

You will find skin care products containing Alpha-hydroxy acids in creams, lotions and various anti-aging skin care products. Products with Alpha-hydroxy may decrease the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. If you have sensitive skin, you can consult with your day spa esthetician or dermatologist about using products with Alpha-hydroxy. Side effects of using Alpha-hydroxy acid products, include mild irritation and sun sensitivity. To lessen your chances of developing any side effects, use products every other day in the initial stages of trying the product.

Beta-hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid)

Studies have shown that products with Beta-hydroxy Acid improve the skin?s texture and color. Products with Beta-hydroxy acid tend to be less irritating to the skin than products with alpha-hydroxy acid. Many beta-hydroxy acid products can be found at your local drugstore or department store.

Retinol

Many skin care products contain retinol, a derivative of vitamin A. Retinol is used in acne skin care products such as Retin-A, a popular acne skin care product for teenagers, who tend to suffer harsh outbreaks of acne. Studies show that Retinol is able to penetrate the lower layers of the skin to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and re-hydrate the skin.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C allows the body to produce collagen, which is a key ingredient in the anti-aging process. The environment, sun damage and stress can wreak havoc on our skin, as we age. Vitamin C minimizes the aging process. Ask your day spa esthetician or dermatologist, for the best topical Vitamin C product.

Copper Peptide

Copper peptide, which has only been on the market since 1997, boosts collagen and elastin production. It helps to sustain firm skin and it does it better than other anti-aging skin care products. Copper Peptide also removes damaged collagen and elastin from your skin.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-Lopoic acid is believed to be the best anti-aging combatant due to its ability to fight skin damaging free radicals when compared to other antioxidants. Alpha-Lipoic Acid reduces fine lines and gives the skin a luster and healthy glow. It also boosts the levels of other antioxidants such as Vitamin C.

Find day spas in over 50 cities including New York city, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, Chicago, Seattle, Houston, etc.

Artificial Sweeteners: A Closer Look at Aspartame Part 1

Moderation is the key to everything in life. This is true with sweeteners too. We have read and heard of all the dangers of Aspartame. Remember? everything CAN be dangerous. For example, studies have shown that fish is good for you; however, I have friends and family that have major allergic reactions to fish even to the point of not breathing! You might say, ?But these are isolated cases?? Well, let?s see what has been said about Aspartame. This page was titled: ?Aspartame ? Most dangerous of all sweeteners!? Here is the report by Dr. H.J. Roberts, Aspartame (NutraSweet) Is It Safe?, Charles Press, page 283/84.

?Aspartame, a dipeptide of aspartic acid and a methyl ester of phenylalanine, is approved for use in pharmaceutical products and is being used increasingly in chewable tablet and sugar-free formulations. Labels for both prescription and nonprescription products must include the phenylalanine content. The major consideration in the use of aspartame in children is in patients with autosomal recessive phenylketonuria. Although heterozygotes do not appear to have clinically significant increases in phenylalanine after ingestion of even large amounts (equivalent to 24 12-oz cans of diet beverages), homozygotes with strict dietary restrictions should avoid aspartame. Children without dietary restrictions could safely ingest 10 mg/kg/d. [37-40. Dietary consumption of aspartame is typically less than 5 mg/kg/d[41; young children, however, could ingest considerably more. For example, a 2-year-old child weighing 12 kg consumes 17 mg/kg from drinking one 12-oz can of diet soda and one serving of a sweetened product (eg, cereal, pudding, gelatin, or frozen dessert).

Headache is the most common adverse side effect attributed to aspartame but is seldom confirmed by single-dose double-blind challenge. Up to 11% of patients with chronic migraine headaches reported headaches triggered by aspartame; however, a double-blind challenge with three doses of 10 mg/kg given every 2 hours triggered no more headaches than did placebos in patients with vascular headaches believed to be exacerbated by aspartame. A small, double-blind 4-week trial showed an increase in frequency of headaches after ingestion of 1200 mg/d, indicating that a longer challenge period may be necessary. ?

In my next installment, we will finish looking at the report on Apartame and then begin to unpack the report and pull some very interesting insights out of the report. See you then!

Olan Butler is the Chief Architect of BHO Technologists, a computer productivity & organization software provider http://www.bhotechnologists.com with headquarters in Kansas City. Join his FREE newsletter Computing Success Secrets for a steady stream of computer, health and overall life profiting tips. You'll be glad you did! Olan believes poor health produces poor computing. Olan also provides Computer Services in the Kansas City area.

Our Livers Need for Water

Although many realize that the liver has its own cleansing system, it does need help - as it cannot maintain its healthy state if its being abused. Abuse occurs when too much of the wrong foods are entering the body.

The livers main role is to neutralize the wastes and toxins in the body. Toxins refer to ?bad foods? that do more harm than good. Some of these ?bad foods? are fried foods that are high in fat, caffeine and alcohol.

There is nothing wrong with eating these foods in moderation, however, too much of these unhealthy foods in the body can lead to low energy levels. These low levels are caused because the liver has to work much harder to break down the excessive amounts of ?bad food? in the body and the liver is unable to continue processing the toxins at its optimum rate.

In order to avoid problems, drink plenty of water to assist the livers cleansing function by flushing out wastes. Water hydrates the body and allows the cells to stay healthy and active. This is necessary for the proper function of all bodily organs.

Try to eat green leafy vegetables and fruits and exercise is always recommended.

If you want more details on healthy lifestyle tips and at-home spa living, check out www.homespasecrets.com for free information on natural, healthy living.

Jan Johnson is the founder of http://www.homespasecrets.com offering free information on creating your own at-home spa on a dime. HomeSpaSecrets.com also offers healthy living tips and information.

Spa Supply: Helping You Unwind At Home

We?ve heard it so many times from all walks of life; Americans are over worked, over stressed and much deserving of a refreshing break. And we all know that one of the best and most popular ways to relieve stress and tension is a visit to the local day spa or better yet a week-long stay at a luxury spa resort. But, unfortunately, all of that rest and relaxation takes time and money. So, what can you do to unwind if you find that you are lacking in both of these precious commodities?

The answer might be as easy as creating your very own spa experience at home with inexpensive products purchased from your local or online spa supply. With products like facial masks, foot massagers and exfoliating body creams at your disposal, you will have no need to shell out money for a masseuse or to cover travel expenses. All you will have to do to get all of the pampering and luxury that you need is delve into your private spa supply collection.

While you won?t need a lot of products to make your home spa experience as luxurious as its more expensive counterparts, there are a few products that every home spa supply should include. Here is a brief look at just a few of the products that you will want to have on hand:

* Massaging foot bath - When you come home from a long day?s work it seems like everything is aching, especially your feet. So, why not come home to your very own foot spa? Many of these spas come with heat and massage features and can do wonders for aching joints and weary feet. And the best part is that you can purchase one of these babies for as little as $25.

* Paraffin wax system - These home systems are also very inexpensive and are great for people with arthritis. The warm wax relieves aches and inflammation in the hands and feet and leaves skin supple, smooth and soft. Also great for people with dry, cracked or chapped skin. The system costs around $40.

* Facial sauna - With a home facial sauna you can steam away the impurities of your skin just like the pros do. Combine this product with your favorite cleansers, toners and moisturizers to create the perfect salon experience at home. You can purchase one of these for about $45.

* Hot oil manicure set - This is the ultimate luxury and will leave your hands and nails feeling and looking great. The soothing heated oil will help repair damaged and dry nail cuticles and will also help condition and strengthen your nails. These are hard to find, but can be purchased for around $30 at most beauty supply stores.

In addition to all of these great spa supply ideas, you might want to consider inexpensive massage oils and creams. Aromatherapy bath gels and lotions also do wonders for a tired and weary body.

You see, it only takes a little bit of money to have the spa experience of your life. And the best part about having your very own spa supply at home is that there?s no commute and the spa is always open for business.

Credit: Ian W Anderson of The Spa Resort, the spa information site. For more spa information and articles like this one visit: Spas.

8 Steps to Natural Beauty from the Inside Out

Have you ever noticed people that possess a radiant glow about them? It is the type of beauty that goes beyond the surface. If you would like to reflect your best without pricey miracle products, risky procedures or fad diets read on:

1. Follow a natural detoxification program for 3 days once per month. drink plenty of purified water, meditate, drink herbal cleansing teas, fiber rich foods and eliminate processed foods, dairy, alcohol,tobacco, etc.

2. Perform skin brushing to improve circulation and maintain a youthful appearance.

3. Bathe in in relaxing herbs and soothing essential oils. Try dried rose petals, lavender buds, clary sage or patchouli.

4. Moisturize skin with plant based ingredients. (avoid mineral oil) * Beautiful skin is the secret to aging gracefully* Weekly home spa treatments with Indigofera's Body Polishing Scrub and Silken Body Butter reveal smooth glowing skin.

5.Create positive affirmations and repeat them throughout the day. I am light, I attract health, wisdom and beauty

6. Wear authentic gemstone jewelry like, amber, amethyst, citrine, & garnet.

7. Pay special attention to the colors you where, try to avoid dark colors. Study the Seven Chakras and learn about the energy of color.

8. Smile and laugh more often! Unmanaged stress contributed to premature signs of aging.

Chanelle Washington, RN, BSN is a Certified Holistic Practitioner and founder of Indigofera. She is an honors graduate of Temple University and member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor society for nurses. She is an informative speaker, author. She facilitates Optimal Wellness Workshops. To book her as a speaker call 215-525-3594 or e-mail wellness@indigofera.com http://www.indigofera.com

Benefits of Spa Treatments

Ladies, when was the last time you were treated like a queen? Whether it was in this millenium or the last, spending the day at a Spa guarantees the Star Treatment. Day Spa?s are like hair and nail salons, only better. In addition to hair and nail services, they offer relaxing muscle massages, pedicures, manicures, deep cleansing facials and even body scrubs, all in a comforting, soothing environment. Most offer gift certificates and will combine services into ?packages? at a reduced price.

Winter weather wrecks havoc on our skin, especially our hands and feet, leaving them dry and cracked. I don?t know about you, but my lotion just ain?t getting it! Dead skin cells on your body can prevent your oil and lotion from soaking in, leaving you with a bad case of winter itch. Get rid of all that dead, dry (ashy) skin with an invigorating sea-salt body scrub. Your face can get ashy, also, and feel dry and tight. Contrary to popular belief, Black women and men needs facials too! A good facial will deep clean your pores ? removing black heads, acne and even hair and shaving bumps- and leave your face smooth and hydrated.

If nothing else, get a massage, especially if you have children. They are great for your body and spirit; they can tone muscles and are ultra relaxing. Massages can be purchased by the hour (full body) or half hour (back only). During a massage, you will be asked to remove all of your clothes. Don?t be shy, but feel free to leave your underwear on. You will be covered by a sheet at all times. So, lay back, enjoy the candlelight and listen to soothing sounds while being massaged with warm oil. Or better yet, learn how to massage each other in a class you can take together.

About The Author

Nicole Elizabeth Smith, the author of Healthy Black Hair (2003), is a freelance health and beauty writer and a graduate of Michigan State University. She and her son Zack live in Michigan. Currently, she is beauty editor for www.myhairbook.com.

nicole@myhairbook.com

The Healing Powers Of Water Can Enhance Your Power Of Touch

Water is one of nature?s gifts as it can be used in numerous ways and can also benefit us it many ways. Its use for therapeutic purposes has been known for thousands of years and by many cultures. We know that it was a major part of Greek and Egyptian medicine to the point that the ancient Greeks believed that seawater had the power to take away malignant tumors and revitalize the nervous system.

There are bathing places built on the shores of the Dead Sea, as it has been renowned for thousands of years as having beneficial effects on the body. Lakes that are high in mineral salts are used by people all over the world as the salts penetrate the body through the pores and have a great therapeutic effect on the skin and total body. They can actually detoxify the body, increase blood and lymph circulation and help speed up the elimination of wastes in the body.

There are many hotels based on the shores on the Dead Sea, which offer a wide range of spa treatments. These Dead Sea minerals are also sold for home use in bathes, body and hair treatments as well as other personal uses.

Another treatment from the Dead Sea is mud baths, which are rich in dissolved mineral salts, and plant extracts. It is another way of cleansing the skin and treating arthritis and skin disorders. Various types of mud are used in salon treatments because they act powerfully on the skin?s surface taking away impurities such as dead cells and grime caused by pollution in the air.

A further medical treatment using seawater is known as thalassotherapy which when used can alleviate stress and fatigue, regulate blood pressure, purify the body and soothe muscular aches and pains. It also assists in improving the skin and hair quality as well as recharging the body by replacing some necessary nutrients.

Floating around in water can also promote deep relaxation and there are many clinics using floatation tanks for this very purpose. Flotation allows you to unwind and even meditate if you so wish. The flotation tanks used have mineral salts, which enables your body to float and in turn allows you to become mentally and physically relaxed.

Many of us have been in a spa and felt the soothing and relaxing effects of the jets and bubbles. These days you can have your very own spa at home, which means that you can get that relaxing experience whenever you want.

Anther similar piece of equipment you can have at home is a power shower which when used stimulates the blood and lymph circulation. I also discovered that women can restore tone to sagging breasts by using alternate sprays of hot and cold water performed on a daily basis for about one minute. Also power showers used in specific areas such as thighs and buttocks can break down fats and help take away toxins through better circulation.

We have all heard of people jumping into icy cold water in the name of good health and thought they were all mad! Well I am here to tell you that research has shown that cold-water baths can boost the production of the blood-thinning enzyme called TPA, which helps in preventing blood clots. Other reactions to the cold water are the release of various hormones into the blood stream, which stimulate the thyroid and thereby increase the oxygen consumption of the blood cells.

Cold water has also been found to increase the production of white blood cells, which are very important in fighting off infection. Many people with chronic fatigue syndrome have also benefited from cold-water baths.

We can go on and on about the virtues of water but that would make this article more like a book. I only wanted to introduce you to some of the ways you can use water to provide healthy benefits. Some of you may want to learn more about water?s magic and you can do this by visiting your local library or bookshop.

In the meantime stay healthy and continue to learn what nature can provide for us.

Walter Pigatto is an expert on the skill of touch and can assist you in finding solutions to you and your family's relaxation/pain solutions. He can also show you how to develop the sensual side of your relationship and much more. To learn more visit Power Of Touch web site today!

The Pedicure A Treat for Your Feet!

So often we take our feet for granted as they carry us around each and every day. We pamper our hair and faces but tend not to give our feet a second thought. Until the time arrives when we get a remainder in the form of aching arches or even a more serous foot condition. Taking care of our feet with a regular pedicure will add more than pep to your step; it will also keep some of those unhealthy foot conditions at bay.

Pretty and well cared for feet are more than a delight to the eye. A pedicure can be a wonderful form of pampering; it can lift your spirits and soothe your feet at the same time. Whether you choose a full spa pedicure or opt for an at-home treatment your feet will thank you for it!

The pedicure: Ultimate pampering at home or at the spa

1. At home or at the spa start with a comfortable place to sit. A footbath or large bowl filled with warm water and perhaps therapeutic mineral salts. As you soak your feet for 10 minutes or so, listen to music, read a book or just relax and enjoy the sensation of the water.

2. Remove feet from the water and dry with a soft clean towel. Clip and file the toenails carefully and clean gently around cuticles. Rinse feet and gently pat dry.

3. While the feet are still moist apply a foot scrub to remove any hard skin or calluses from the areas around the heels especially. A pumice stone may also be used at this point. Rinse the feet in the warm water. Wipe feet dry paying special attention to the areas between the toes.

4. Apply a good moisturiser or lotion to the feet and ankle area. Steady massaging stokes will give you a relaxing and therapeutic foot treatment. Allow the lotion or cream moisturizer to soak into the skin.

5. Leave toes nails natural or apply the latest nail polish.

Foot Notes: Schedule your spa pedicure in advance. Many spas and salons take walk-in customers; however, you’ll have less stress and far less chance of a long wait if you make an appointment in advance. Bring a pair of sandals with fully open toes. Allow a full hour for your pedicure. You may be done in 30-40 minutes; however, you don’t want to rush it and you’ll want to make sure your toe nail polish is completely dry before leaving. Bear in mind that you may be sitting in an open area with your feet elevated. For your own comfort plan what you wear accordingly!

Spas in Canada ? Copyright 2005

Angie Kocsi is co-founder of Spas in Canada After many years enjoying spas in Europe and drawing upon her knowledge of the corporate world along with an successful career in Public Relations and International Marketing Spas in Canada was created.

The Spas in Canada website provides a place where premier spas and industry professionals offer useful information for all spa lovers everywhere.

For information on where to find premier Spas in Canada and what to expect from the experience contact the spa team.

Email: spas@spasincanada.ca

Create a Spa Retreat at Home!

In today?s high-stress world, a visit to a spa can provide a much needed renewal for your mind, body and soul. If you don?t have the time and/or money to head to the nearest spa or resort, consider creating your own. Experience the benefits of a day at the spa by creating a near-professional spa in your own home. Here are some ideas for transforming you bathroom into a relaxing spa retreat.

SPA TREATMENTS
Widely used in spas, bath salts or salt scrubs made with sea salts are wonderful for their detoxifying properties. The Romans, Greeks and other European cultures have long believed in the benefits of healing through bathing in hotsprings.

SPA TOOLS
If you?re giving yourself a body treatment, have a body brush, loofah or sponge within easy reach. One of the best ways to revive skin is to exfoliate before you get in the shower. The ancient spas of Japan were known for their dry brushing techniques. Gently brush your body using circular motions with a soft body brush, starting at the feet and working your way up. This light brushing technique removes dead skin cells while stimulating circulation.

DRY OFF
Pamper yourself with classic and elegant spa garb ? a luxuriously thick white terrycloth robe. If you don?t have a robe handy, find your fluffiest, softest towel. For an unmatched toasty treat, heat your robe or towel in the dryer before using.

MOISTURIZE
Water from the bath has a drying effect on the skin. To make the most of your skin replenishment, keep a special body lotion for spa days ? one with an aroma that you enjoy.

Chere Deshayes is the president of Bath Plantation, a company that specializes in handcrafted bath and spa products. Subscribe to her FREE newsletter at http://www.bathplantation.com/newsletter.html or visit her site at http://www.bathplantation.com.

Laser Hair Removal for Tanned Skin

Laser hair removal is the trendiest solution for removing unwanted hair that grows in some parts of our body. However, hair removal is not guaranteed for everyone. There are some things to consider before undergoing such treatment.

The decision and determination of enhancing your physical appearance through the removal of the unnecessary hair on other areas of your body serves no assurance that you can already go through the treatment. Hence, you must first assess yourself if you qualify.

The absolute requirement is that one's hair must be darker than the surrounding skin. Since laser hair removal is an advance technological product and uses a highly laser equipment, this should be taken into consideration. People who have darkly pigmented skin are not that suitable to have the treatment because they have a tendency to absorb more light energy. Physicians typically need to make use of high laser treatments for them.

Tanned patients with light hair are not candidates. Tanned patients with dark hair cannot be treated with the usual hair removal lasers. They require treatment with a specialized laser, such as the kind used at the Institute of Laser Medicine in Los Angeles. Lastly, the treatment cost should be within reach of the patient. Laser hair removal, although much less expensive than electrolysis, requires multiple treatments, and generally costs over $1000 in total for most anatomic areas.

Various skin types needs different laser hair removal methodologies. Light skin makes laser hair removal easier to perform. Fewer treatments are required and better, faster results are obtained unlike to those who have darker skin. Although people with dark skin can still be treated, the expected outcomes are slower and more treatments are required.

Dark hair absorbs more laser energy and is easier to treat. Coarse dark hair responds the best to laser treatment. Light hair is more difficult to treat. Blonde or red hair is very difficult to treat. Numerous treatment sessions are required, and results are changeable. Blonde hair usually contains pheomelanin, which absorbs laser energy less fervently than the eumelanin pigment that is present in black or brown hair.

Laser or light source hair removal (photoepilation) is less effective for individuals with light blond, red or graysilver hair, though the results have been significantly improved with the use of Meladine before the treatment. Laser Hair Removal is very effective for problematic ingrown hairs.

Yet while laser treatments for darker skinned patients has improved, it must be considered that those patients with tanned skin are still not candidates and must wait until their tan fades before they can be treated. This is the reason why patients are instructed not to suntan or use sunless tanning products prior to laser treatment. This is very true since tanning alters skin pigment and can affect how the skin absorbs the laser energy.

If not followed properly this could lead to increased side effects such as blistering or discoloration following treatment. The laser hair removal for tanned skin seems to be more complex as compared to those types of skin that are well suited to undergo the treatment. However, people with that type of skin must remain to be optimistic because nobody can tell; maybe years from now newly improvised equipments for hair removal of tanned patients will be invented.

Do you have any questions you would like answered about laser hair removal? laser-body-hair-removal.info has all the information you need to make an informed decision about the best hair removal procedure for you. There is also a hair removal blog

Ever Wondered What A Seaweed Wrap Is?

With the holiday days coming, you might want to get your body and mind ready by checking out your local spa for a seaweed wrap. And why not? The holidays take out so much on your body that this might be a great new way to relax and unwind. If the thought of a seaweed wrap is new then how about a few facts on the simple but beneficial seaweed wrap. After reading this you might be changing your mind after all.

A seaweed wrap, was created years ago to help with those in need of getting rid of toxins at the spas and maybe loose a few inches at the same time. So why not consider for yourself a seaweed wrap? Seaweed wraps are becoming more popular than ever and after you experience one, you will understand why. Most seaweed wraps are conducted at spas and massage centers, however there are natural recipes that help you in creating the same wrap only at home. Whether you venture to the spa for your first seaweed wrap or choose to enjoy it in your own home, your results will be fantastic.
Ever been curious about why seaweed might be used for a wrap procedure? How about a few facts about the wonders of seaweed? Seaweeds actually provide more than half of the Earth's oxygen. They are one of the most primary life sources because seaweed has been around since just about the beginning of life on this planet. The interesting thing about seaweed is that it absorbs all of the great things from the ocean. Through osmosis, it absorbs copper, iron, potassium, zinc, and iodine. It also absorbs many vitamins that are healthy for our bodies as well.
It is no wonder that seaweed can do so much for our bodies, because our insides are extremely similar in composition to seawater. With our bodies being made of mostly water, seaweed is a welcoming product for our skin. Our skin can never get too much water. Most wraps use seaweed algae from the Brittany Coast of France. Something about the way it grows in that area of the world. A lot of spas will order the seaweed from France to use in their centers for their own famous seaweed wraps. Companies who sell seaweed for the used in wraps have found a way to maintain the natural elements of the seaweed. It's those elements that help the wrap do its job.
Most women try seaweed wraps for their relaxation properties. Seaweed wraps are much more useful than simply for the use relaxation. A simple wrap can stimulate your circulation, making your blood flow better. It can also increase your metabolism, allowing you to have more energy and to lose weight more easily. One of the main things a seaweed wrap does for your body is it helps your body get rid of toxins. It is a gentle form of detoxification for your skin and your body. It will help with cellulite, sagging skin, stretch marks, and help you seem to lose a inch or two.

You can think of a seaweed wrap as a total body cleanser. It cleanses both inside and out. The wrap works by absorbing the vitamins and minerals from where it was grown, those same minerals absorbed by your skin and in turn help break up fatty deposits in your body. It will make your skin look and feel supple and smooth.

While at the spa your wrap specialist will ask you to either remove your clothing, or put on a disposable bikini. Now realize that the specialist is going to be smoothing seaweed paste all over your body. Now if you can't handle the thought of sea paste being painted on then this is not something for you. After the paste is applied, the specialist will then wrap the area with warm thermal sheets. These sheets are very relaxing. You will then relax for up to 45 minutes. The specialist will remove the sheets and you will rinse the seaweed off your body in the shower there at the spa. You should be able to noticed a different in your skin as soon as you dry off.

After receiving seaweed wrap at a spa or if you are thinking about doing it yourself at home, there are a few things you should remember. Since the wrap is removing toxins from your skin, you got to sure to drink extra water for 24 hours before and after your wrap. Drinking water is a great way for your body to replace the toxins with something useful and healthy. Be sure to drink about 4-6 extra glasses to get your body back on track. Not only will drinking more hydrate your body, but it will also allow your skin to stay smooth and supple longer. It's amazing what water does for you!

If you would rather not try a seaweed wrap on your entire body, you can try localized treatments. If you are only concerned with your hips and thighs, you can get a seaweed wrap for your hips and thighs alone. You can also do a seaweed facial wrap. Anyone thinking of getting a seaweed wrap should consider just doing your face, that way you will know that it is something you could handle all over the rest of your body.

Remember any part of your body can have a seaweed wrap. These treatments will improve the firmness in your skin as well as help you with other problems. Just understand for the best results, salon specialists suggest you get a seaweed wrap once a week for at least six to eight weeks. is can be a bit costly, but after all, beauty is not cheap! Well, at least in this type of treatments it isn't easy on your pocketbook. So go ahead, try out a seaweed facial wrap and see if this is something that you want to try on the rest of you. As in all things, don't knock it till you try it!

Copyright 2005 Kim Snyder Owner of Overallbeauty.com Great lover of beauty care and products, never happy without trying to make the world a little prettier for all.
Visit http://Overallbeauty.com to see the latest in beauty products and skin care.
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Acne Skin Care Treatment Tips For A Healthier Looking Skin

Acne is caused by an overproduction of sebum, a substance which is produced by your Sebaceous glands. Your Sebaceous glands can be found on your face, upper neck and chest. Sebum production increases during adolescence and starts to wean around the age of 20. This does not mean that acne vanishes at age 20. Infact, acne, which is usually thought of as a teenager's skin care issue affects adults both female and male.

Treating acne requires patience, finding the right acne treatment products and sticking to a good treatment routine. Here are tips on what to do and what to avoid.

Dos

Cleanse. Fighting acne requires you to establish a daily routine of gently washing your face with a good acne skin cleanser. Acne skin cleansers will get rid of the accumulated makeup, oils, sweat and dirt on your face. There are skin cleansers for various types of skin types: oily, dry, sensitive and normal. You will want to buy the correct product for your skin type.

Exfoliate. Exfoliation allows your new skin cells to shine through by getting rid of your dead skin cells. The result is a new replenished look that helps give your skin a youthful, fresh appearance. It is advisable to exfoliate more during the summer months since you tend to sweat more.

Moisturize even if you have oily skin. Choose the right moisturizer for your skin type.

Use noncomedogenic comestics and skin care products. These products do not clog your pores.

Consult a day spa esthetician or dermatologist for expert advice, if your problem gets consistently worse.

Don'ts

Do not overwash your face.

Do not scrub or rub your skin excessively.

Never pop, squeeze or pick at acne. This spreads the inflammation and makes things worse.

If you find that certain foods aggravate your acne, try to avoid them (e.g. oily foods such as fast food).

Avoid excessive sun, tanning booths and sun lamps.

Avoid excessive sweating or humidity.

Visit your local day spa esthetician for more skin care tips.

Access the list of day spas in your local community at http://www.dayspafan.com

Spas and Hot Tubs: Relaxing Your Way to a Better Health

Imagine yourself in a warm, soothing tub of bubbling water, relaxing after a long day. What better way to spend the evening than soaking in the hot tub and in the comfort of your own home. Spas and hot tubs offer ways to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, injuries, or simply promote relaxation and stress relief. Hot tubs also offer a romantic way to unwind with your loved ones.

The use of spas and hot tubs can be traced back to the Romans with their famous bathhouses which is the center of social life and a common daily activity of the elite classes. The earliest spa enthusiast (Romans, Japanese and Chinese) was able to appreciate the health benefits of using hot water to relax the body and generally promote better health.

The body?s first reaction to being immersed in hot water is to try to get back to its normal temperature by pumping the heart faster causing a temporary increase in blood pressure. The longer one soaks in the spa, the more times the blood cycles through the body. The warm blood causes the blood vessels to dilate, thus, lessening the resistance to blood flow and dropping the blood pressure. The muscle-relaxation effects of hot water also help dull muscle pain and help rid itself of lactic acid and other metabolic wastes.

The water jet found in spas can also promote healing by providing more oxygen to its targeted area. This happens when the heat and pressure from the jets raise the level of antibodies and white blood cells delivered to the area, promoting the destruction of bad cells and stimulating the formation of new tissue. There are different spas having water jets but the one with less piping is preferred because it results in less friction being applied to water traveling through the pipe. The massaging water jets therefore feel stronger in all of the spa's seats.

People with conditions that weaken body motion, like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or paralysis, often will find benefits from bathing in a hot tub. The warm water helps relieve aches and pains, while loosening joints.

Looking back to the history of spas and hot tubs, it has been a luxury item for the elite class. The last few decades saw tremendous development in spa technology, materials and manufacturing, making it reliable and affordable enough for most people. Since then, it became popular not only for the relaxation and stress relieving benefit it offers but also as a means of treating different medical conditions and injuries.

For more information visit www.bullfrogspas.com

Shyr Regueta is a webmaster of Bullfrog Spas She is a college graduate with a degree in Business Administration major in Marketing. Her interests include movies, novels, traveling, and scrapbooking.

Medical Spa's: A Physicians Perspective

Imagine visiting a facility that allows for medical grade cosmetic procedures to restore skin health and rejuvenate the face and body, maximize health and wellness while in a serene spa-like environment. You would be visiting a Medical Spa.

International Medical Spa Association defines a medical spa as ?a facility that operates under the full-time, on-site supervision of a licensed health care professional. The facility operates within the scope of practice of its staff, and offers traditional, complementary, and alternative health practices and treatments in a spa-like setting. Practitioners working within a medical spa will be governed by their appropriate licensing board, if licensure is required.? It would provide a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates traditional cosmetic procedures and wellness with alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic and holistic care to maximize both health and wellness as well as beauty care. Those that adhere to the guidelines as put forth by the IMSA often have a physician on staff (preferably on site), chiropractors, massage therapists, nutritionists, and holistic practitioners.

Advancing technology allows for more dramatic non-invasive and minimal ?down time? cosmetic procedures to fit patients active social and career lifestyle. This, coupled with mainstream acceptance, has led to an ever-growing consumer demand. Numerous facilities are appearing almost daily, whether attached to an already existing medical practice or as a stand alone new practice. Even some traditional hair salons and day spa?s are enlisting physicians to come by their facility periodically to perform Botox? or Restylane? injections.

With this booming demand, many investors see an opportunity to cash in on this growing market by opening medical spas ranging from ?one of? to franchises. Many non-medical persons are opening up facilities ranging from laser hair removal facilities to medical spa?s, staffing them with estheticians, ?laser technicians?, or nurses. For a facility to purchase a laser, a physician has to be affiliated with that facility. Thus many physicians serve as Medical Director, yet have no direct clinical interaction with clients in their evaluation, treatment or follow-up.

Indeed, for some facilities the physician is not even located in the same community. Some Medical Directors have residency training in Dermatology or Plastic Surgery, while others are from different medical specialties. However, since many of these procedures and technologies are relatively new, current and ongoing postgraduate medical education and training are important.

With this rapid growth, many states medical regulations are not keeping pace with the evolving technologies, which result in loose regulatory oversight. In fact many states allow non-physicians to own and operate laser hair removal spas.

With increasing popularity and availability of these services, the incidence of injury from these ?low risk? procedures is increasing. While very rarely serious injury occurs (there have been two deaths, including one in North Carolina, associated with laser hair removal and use of topical anesthetic), troublesome injuries requiring evaluation and treatment by a medical specialist are becoming more commonplace. Injuries can include scarring, pigmentation changes, and even blindness. A study on complications from laser procedures by Vic Narurkar, MD was presented this year at the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery. He found that 82% of all laser related complications occurred in facilities that had no direct physician supervision. 1

Training is another big issue. For example, an esthetician requires a minimum of 600 hours training before being issued a license to perform skin care and superficial peels. However, to operate a laser most states have no set training requirements. In most cases the training is done by the laser manufacture and may be only a day or two in length. While lasers are generally safe in the right hands and most persons have no contraindications, there are a few medical conditions that can lead to adverse out comes. Certain medical conditions, such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, adrenal or ovarian tumors, can manifest themselves by excessive facial hair or male pattern hair growth. These could be easily missed if not appropriately screened for. Certain medications can place the laser patient at higher risk for complications. Appropriate medical screening is warranted in all new laser patients.

Another concern is what happens if someone is injured. Or, while screening a prospective laser patient, concern of an underlying medical condition arises. Can most of these facilities handle these situations? Does the staff know what to do? Is the staff astute enough to notice that a mole has some suspicious features before performing a laser treatment on it? Is there a physician on site or readily available to evaluate that mole, or treat a complication?

Medical spas provide clients aesthetic and wellness care in a serene, relaxing and pampering environment. Most patients will have no adverse outcomes or are treated without injury. However with the increasing popularity of these procedures, adverse outcomes are bound to increase. Having a physician who is actively involved in patient evaluation, treatment and follow-up is an important component to preventing injury. Establishment of a training program with ongoing education and evaluation of all practitioners is paramount. Finally, the ability to treat and refer patients who are injured or have other medical concerns is also important.

1. Complications from Laser Procedures Performed By Non-Physicians. Vic A. Narurkar, MD. Skin & Aging. Sep 2005, pg. 70-71.

Donald Sudy, MD
Medical Director
ReGenesis Medical Spa & Wellness Center

Exercising Over 50: How to Begin

When it comes to exercising past the ages of 50 or 60, many people look at gyms, yoga studios, and health clubs with trepidation. Often, this reaction is a result of fear; fear of looking out of place, not knowing what to do or how to do it; price can also be a major consideration.

Unfortunately, this seems to be the time when many people seeking to improve their physical conditioning say the heck with it and just take a nap or watch a movie and eat another cookie.

Years ago, the options for these same somewhat determined would-be-over 50 exercisers were to workout at home. They would buy magazines on: physical fitness, books on aerobics, calorie counting, muscle building, running or yoga; then came exercise videos.

Today, there are daily fitness programs on cable. These programs cover the gamut of yoga, chair exercises, aerobics, aerobics with weights, and Pilates. The problem is you have to be ready to workout when the TV program airs, which may or may not fit your schedule.

Deciding what type of exercise program is right for you is often a daunting task for the un-initiated as well. For those who are too over-weight and out-of-shape to begin with, running is probably out of the question. Bicycling may be difficult as well.

One smart alternative to get started is to purchase a generic, aerobic chair or seated exercise video. This will allow the newbie to break-in slowly, stay motivated, and progress at their own speed.

Seated exercises are a great way to add aerobic conditioning to your daily routine, avoid damage to any joints, increase your metabolism to lose weight and accomplish the rest of your daily tasks with renewed energy.

Many of these videos will offer beginner, intermediate and advanced programs to allow for steady progress to greater fitness.

To get started:

?Check with your physician before beginning any exercise program.

?Start out slowly at a pace you can repeat several days a week.

?Steadily increase your participation from one or two days a week, to three and ultimately four. Resting in-between workout days.

?If something hurts, either don?t do it or do it slower, or easier and allow your body to become accustomed to the new demands you're placing on it.

?Drink enough of water to replace what you lose sweating and to flush-out toxins. This is a wonderful way to detoxify the body, burn calories and gain strength and energy all at the same time.

?Eat a sensible diet, reducing calories and you will see quick results.

Re-evaluate your progress every 30 days so you don?t settle into a comfortable routine; the body needs to be challenged to improve.

Once you can complete an exercise program with ease, celebrate your accomplishment and move up to the next level. This could include: standing or step aerobics, cycling, swimming, jogging, weight lifting, etc.

The most important things are: to start, be kind with yourself, if you find the exercises difficult to perform, don?t be discouraged, be encouraged and proud that your have taken the first step at improving your life. Be persistent, consistent and brave.

Keith Edwin Renninson is co-owner, along with Jeffrey Forman, of Golden Years Videos, LLC a production company dedicated to filming exercise videos for anyone over 50 or those of any age rehabilitating from an accident or illness.

Renninson is an avid exercise enthusiast. Now in his late 50?s, he still races bicycles in the Cat 4 55+ class and regularly skis the black diamond runs in Colorado where he lives. For many years a bona fide gym rat, Renninson loves to lift free weights and use exercise machines.

You can contact Renninson or read more about his company and their videos at: http://www.goldenyearsvideos.com

Latest Medical Spa Equipment Showcased at New York Medical Spa Expo

This year, the New York Medical Spa Expo confirmed the Medical Spa industry is continuing to grow. ?Not only did thousands of Spa and Medical Spa owners visit this year?s show, but we also saw the release of some new and noteworthy equipment perfect for the medical spa environment? says Jeff Russell, the CEO of MedSpa Financing.

New this Year ? Hair Rejuvenation

When you attend these shows you know you are going to see many devices for removing unwanted hair, but what about improving the appearance of thinning hair? Well this year, for the first time ever we saw the impressive CosmeticTrichoGenesis Mark 5 unit. Owners of Medical Spas are constantly looking for that piece of equipment that will differentiate them from their competitors, well this is it!

Robert Kramer, President of Current Technologies says Growth of the Medical Spa industry is being fueled by a demand for more and better services devoted to making men and women look and feel better. Current Technololgy's CosmeticTrichoGenesis Mark 5 offers a once a week, safe, painless and successful method for improving the appearance of thinning hair. The Mark 5 utilizes non-invasive pulsed electrostatic energy that can noticeably create the look of fuller, more luxurious hair. www.current-technology.com/CTG/

Microdermabrasion Equipment Moving to the Next Level

Another standard piece of equipment in a Medical Spa is the microdermabrasion machine. This year we saw one that not only targets the face, but actually treats the whole body while applying topical treatments. Medical Spa owners are going to like the extra revenue streams that will be found by adding topicals to their microdermabrasion procedures.

The Vibraderm skin station exfoliates the skin while creating new collagen. It employs a patented vibrating head with a stainless steel abrasive surface to evenly exfoliate the skin. New is the Vibrafusion? system, which results in a vibrant tone and texture to the skin. The Vibraderm?s full body treatment can be performed on all skin types including Fitzpatrick skin type V and VI. Medical spa owners will like the fact that the procedures are less technique dependent, since the size of the unique paddle prevents the potential of uneven treatments and happier clients. Unlike traditional microdermabrasion equipment, there are no crystals or suction, this gives you a clog-free treatment with a quick clean-up. www.vibraderm.com

Medical Spa Software

Harms Software demonstrated the medical spa friendly Millennium? advanced booking, point-of-sale, information and customer relations management system. Millennium?s advanced security allows you to maintain HIPPA compliancy while still allowing you and your staff to navigate seamlessly from screen to screen. You can handle real world situations quickly and help your clients easily. For example, while you are booking a client?s appointment, you can check their gift certificate balance or information on a product or service they purchased in the past. The software allows you to track skin/facial information, prescriptions/analysis, photos, documents and more. The advanced appointment booking is also a ?must have? when it comes to managing not only your staff and doctors, but your rooms and equipment. Harms Software has been built on 17 years of experience, bringing you software that works in a Medical Spa environment. www.harms-software.com

Advanced Muscular Therapy

Hard to miss was the impressive robotic massaging arm of the Meilus Muscular Therapy (MMT) machine. This unit is designed to effectively lengthen muscles, which will improve your client?s body tone, increase flexibility, and enable muscles to rid themselves of waste and toxins. The MMT can give your Medical Spa that extra edge in helping your client?s live better, more pain-free lives as their body naturally ages. www.meetmeilus.com

From this show, we can see the Medical Spa industry is evolving. ?Many doctors are tired of slow paying reimbursements, and want to move into a cash business where they are paid for the services they perform. Medical Spas are the answer for many doctors, it also gives doctors the opportunity to enter the growing anti-aging market. With the right Medical Spa equipment, you can make your transition to a Medical Spa owner a very profitable one!? says Jeff Russell.

For More Information:

CosmeticTrichoGenesis Mark 5 unit. Call 1-800-661-4247 or visit www.current-technology.com/CTG/

Vibraderm. Call (800) 494-7181 or visit www.vibraderm.com

Millennium? from Harms Software Inc. Call 1-888-813-2141 or visit www.harms-software.com

Meilus Muscular Therapy (MMT) machine. Call 1-800-237-8300 or visit www.meetmeilus.com

About MedSpa Financing (Oakridge Healthcare) - MedSpaFinancing.com is a division of Oakridge Healthcare, which provides turn-key healthcare financing solutions to medical practices and equipment vendors throughout North America (http://www.oakridgehealthcare.com).

MedSpa Financing is the only financing company that specializes in financing Medical Spas. We have financed Medical Spas from California to New York, and everywhere in between. Through our network of financial partners, we have the capacity to finance everything from a single treatment machine to an entire $20 million Medical Spa facility.

For additional information, visit our website: http://www.medspafinancing.com. MedSpa Financing is a sustaining member of the International Medical Spa Association, and proud member of our local Chamber of Commerce.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Jeff Russell 1-800-485-5759 MedSpaFinancing.com http://www.medspafinancing.com

Skin Care How To Take Care Of The Skin You're In

Take care of your skin now and you?ll reap the rewards later. Celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston and Nicole Kidman have flawless skin. Legendary beauty, Sophia Loren gives meaning to the phrase ?aging with grace?.

Of course these beauties have an advantage that most Americans do not have ? large amounts of money. Many of us cannot afford to spend large amounts of money for beauty products. Some celebrities are known to spend up to $500 on small jars of ?fountain of youth? type elixirs.

So what can the average American do in their quest for healthy looking skin? Stick to two basic practices:

Pick the Best Skin Care Products For You

The biggest factor in achieving healthy skin is to utilize products that your skin loves. In order to do this, you need to understand your skin type. Do you have dry skin and therefore need dry skin care products or do you have oily skin?

Knowing your skin type will narrow you playing field. There are many, many products on the shelves at your local drug store or in your higher-end department stores. You?ve probably heard terms such as Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta-hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid), Retinol, etc. Cosmetic manufacturers use these propaganda-like words to sell their products. Do these terms really mean anything? How do they help your skin?

The simply fact is that you don?t need to be a scientist to find the best products. Let common sense be your guide. Do you know someone, who has used the products before? Did they find it helpful? These are questions that you should ask when selecting products.

After suffering from acne and oily skin as a teenager and now dry skin ? I have tried every acne skin care product, oily skin care product and dry skin care product on the shelf. I have also tried several natural/organic skin care products. Some work and some don?t.

Over the years, I have developed my list of the best of the best skin care products including acne skin care products, dry/oily skin care products, natural skin care products and anti-aging skin care products.

Make Your Beautification Ritual, Routine

Once you find the best skin care products, develop a skin care treatment/beautification routine. If your routine is in the morning or evening, then give yourself about 15 to 30 minutes to engage yourself without interruption.

Take pictures of your starting point so that you can track your progress each week.

Consult with your local day spa esthetician for more skin care ideas.

Beauty is only skin deep but a beautiful heart and mind, deserve beautiful skin.

Find the list of day spas in your local community.

Health Spas Pure Indulgence

Health spas are places where you can go to get a range of health treatments, intended to relax you and relieve stress. They are a modern phenomenon, and are often seen as a product of our high-stress lifestyles, with busy professionals paying large sums of money just to get away from it all for a few hours. However, that isn?t to say that spas can?t be very nice places to go, because they are.

There are lots of different kinds of spas: day spas (where you just drop in when you have an appointment) and resort spas (where you stay like in a hotel) are the most common, with others including spas on cruise ships and medical spas run by doctors.

Most spas offer a wide range of services, with some of the most common and popular being facials, saunas, massages, and various skin and body treatments. Some spas are devoted to a particular aspect of health, such as weight loss or the treatment of back pains.

When you choose a spa, you should make sure that you speak to other customers who have been there before. In common with much of the health industry, many spas can be somewhat disreputable, charging large amounts to stay and further large amounts for each treatment you take. Some spas take deceptive pricing a very long way, and will threaten you with legal action if you don?t pay. This isn?t to scare you away from health spas altogether, but simply to warn you to make sure to stick to ones that have a good reputation, where you know what you?re getting for your money.

If you don?t want to go to a full-blown health spa, though, there are plenty of alternatives. Most of the treatments offered at a health spa are offered by individual practitioners separately, and they are often better at what they do than the staff at a spa. Failing that, beauty salons can also be good places to go for many treatments.

John Gibb is the owner of health spa guides, For more information on health spas please check out http://www.Health-Spa-Guides2k.Info

Longevity Can Fat Cells Dictate How Long a Human Survives?

According to the September Issue of Popular Mechanics, a report written by Jim Wilson explains how human beings may some day have the capability to survive to be 180 (one hundred eighty) years old!

Based on research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology -( MIT ) - and Professor Leonard P. Guarante; genetic makeup that rules our individual time-clocks can be virtually erased.

* How is this possible?

Every person has DNA fragments dubbed telomeres Our telomeres are specifically designed to extend our lives. These telomeres are copied from genetic material in our chromosomes. As mitosis occurs, these telomeres pass to our newly formed cells. As we age, however, our cell information becomes illegible - similar to ...a document that is photocopied too many times... [1 Once this happens, our cells are depleted of telomeres before our chromosomes are completely corrupted. Without telomeres, our cells no longer have the vital information to reproduce themselves. Based on this research, our maximum human lifespan - theoretically - could typically range from 120 to 180 years of age IF we can instruct our genes how to tell our body to lose fat as opposed to storing it.

* So what does fat content have to do with longevity?

According to studies which began halfway in the 20th century; yeast, worms and lab rats who sustained themselves on the brink of starvation lived substantially longer than their well-nourished counterparts. Genetically tied to our personal genepools are WAT (White Adipose Tissue) cells; otherwise known as fat cells, our bodies automatically preserve fat for future unsurities. Aside from starvation ditets, Professor Guarente is optimistic that research will lead to a drug that may bind the single protein (Sirt1) (which directs the body's ability to store fat in WAT cells) and trick it into thinking that it needs to release fat as opposed to saving it. In this sense, we could - hypothetically speaking - have our cake and eat it too. And perhaps, live to be nearly two centuries old!

The moral dilemmas of super-long, life expectancies could inevitably trigger social and economic controversies. In closing, I leave you with my own thoughts on this topic, based on a satirical analogy from MountainWings.com:

The Dragonfly

Once, in a little pond, in the muddy water under the lily pads, there lived a little water beetle in a community of water beetles. They lived a simple and comfortable life in the pond with few disturbances and interruptions.

Once in a while, sadness would come to the community when one of their fellow beetles would climb the stem of a lily pad and would never be seen again. They knew when this happened; their friend was dead, gone forever.

Then, one day, one little water beetle felt an irresistible urge to climb up that stem. However, he was determined that he would not leave forever. He would come back and tell his friends what he had found at the top.

When he reached the top and climbed out of the water onto the surface of the lily pad, he was so tired, and the sun felt so warm, that he decided he must take a nap. As he slept, his body changed and when he woke up, he had turned into a beautiful blue-tailed dragonfly with broad wings and a slender body designed for flying.

So, fly he did! And, as he soared he saw the beauty of a whole new world and a far superior way of life to what he had never known existed.

Then he remembered his beetle friends and how they were thinking by now he was dead. He wanted to go back to tell them, and explain to them that he was now more alive than he had ever been before. His life had been fulfilled rather than ended.

But, his new body would not go down into the water. He could not get back to tell his friends the good news. Then he understood that their time would come, when they, too, would know what he now knew. So, he raised his wings and flew off into his joyous new life!

~Author Unknown~

Longer lives - longer civilizations? Some thoughts to ponder...

****************************************************

? Longevity - Can Fat Cells Dictate How Long a Human Survives? 2004 - All Rights Reserved

By, C. Bailey-Lloyd

References:

PM Magazine, Live to Be 180 Massachusetts Institute of Technology Telomere.net

About the Author: C. Bailey-Lloyd - Author of Somewhere Along the Beaten Path

Feel free to visit Media Positive Radio -- Providing a positive and uplifting listening experience - All the Time! Featuring the finest music from Independent and Mainstream musicians all focusing on the power and greatness of every individual as well as the collective power of unity and brotherhood.

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Spa Treatments and Skin Care Care That Your Body Mind and Soul Deserve

A spa treatment is often labeled as ?a great way of pampering the body?; however, considering the great burden of these stressful times, going for spa treatments is a necessity they are on every stars healthcare and appearance plan. From Jessica Simpson to Halle Berry, Jodi Foster, Oprah, etc... These are the most highly sought after treatments and women are shelling out thousands for this 'fountain of youth.' The body, soul and mind very well deserve these spa treatment indulgences. In fact, a holistic spa treatment is a complete invigorating experience that revitalizes the mind and soul while stimulating body?s self-healing mechanism and should be used by everyone atleast once a year.

Therapeutic massages and face / body treatments are some of the basic services that the spas offer. Modern day spas have developed different types of massages ? Aromatherapy, Ayurvedic massage, deep tissue massage, lymphatic drainage massage, Neuromuscular therapy, Shiatsu and many more. These ancient techniques of rejuvenating the entire system by caressing the skin and kneading the muscles is performed by licensed therapists with extreme care. Remember! Each massage has its typical utility.

The spa treatment services for your facial and body skin involve deep cleansing, exfoliating, massaging, toning and moisturizing. These treatments remove the damaged epidermal layers to reveal younger, healthier-looking skin. Both facials and body treatments, cleanse the deep-seated impurities, stimulate blood circulation and hydrate the skin surface.

In general, spas prefer non-chemical and non-invasive procedures like Oxygen therapy, Photo facial, Vitamin peels, homemade oilbaths, skin peels and indigenous body scrubs. However, now that the effectiveness and harmlessness of TCA peels (the most prescribed skin peels by dermatologists and plastic surgeons) have been certified and proven to be the most effective, many spas are using these peels for treating skin problems. Equally effective at home as in spas, the TCA peels work real fast removing your dead skin, enhancing blood circulation and aiding the process of the re-growth of collagen and elastin. Basically, the tca peel is the single most effective and least invasive treatment on the market.

Considering TCA peel your ?at-home spa treatment? will be no exaggeration, especially if you consider the lasting results it produces ? changing your lusterless, dead hide for a more glamorous, youthful covering. Remember, the TCA treatment promises you emotional indulgence at a cost-effective rate.

TCA peels are on every hollywood stars skin rejuvenation program and they should be on yours also. There's no luck in the glowing skin of the celebrities at the Oscars - its simple - spa treatments and TCA peels. It is also interesting to note that TCA peels are one of the most effective treatments for acne and wrinkles in current use.

David Maillie is a chemist and an alumni of Cornell University and specializes in biochemical synthesis for public, private, and governmental interests and manufactures various skin peels and acne treatments for doctors offices and medispas. He can be reached at M.D. Wholesale: http://www.bestskinpeel.com

While Thinking About Ephedra Diet Pill!

Hello FDA (the one we know, not the one we'd wish: Food and Diet Administration :) Is every diet pill a drug?

No Sir. Listen please, the difference is.. FDA explaining.

..Yes.. But.. So.. Aha.. No.. Now, I got it.. Okay then, thanks medical folk. I said

..Goodness, and I thought I knew that before!

Ephedra Diet Pill to get the point.

Suppose you want to market a new product called Best Dietum Pillz Ever having a drug label as status, then before going any further and dealing with the potential consumers, you should get an approval from The Food and Drug Administration. But to get approved, you have to prove that Best Dietum Pillz Ever is safe. So the proof burden is on you, as manufacturer.

Here is the second element of our comparison

History flash: Dietary supplements is a substance class created in 1994 by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act. Briefly, if a product belongs to the dietary supplements category, then it is not considered as a drug but as food. Hence, less restriction than those implied on conventional drugs .

Now again, suppose you want to put a new product called Best Dietum Pillz Ever on the market but this time as dietary supplements product, then don't look around, go further and jump on your potential consumers. Forget about The Food and Drug Administration. You don't even have to register it. If the FDA desires any restriction about your Best Dietum Pillz Ever product. Just say: Burden on you, FDA. Prove that my Best Dietum Pillz Ever is Not safe!

Ha! A bit strange! Right. This is why some are calling for a more restrictive law revision concerning this category.

Realizing such and such, we can understand why Ephedra as a drug is banned because of the cardiovascular effects it may cause due to its active ingredient ephedrine. But those dietary supplements containing the same ephedrine ingredient are generally still being marketed. (Except in some states)

Redistributing roles, it comes out this way:

When it comes to drugs, you may feel safer, because The Food and Drug Administration is more restrictive as every new drug is subject to pre-approval and safety proofs before being thrown on me and you. But once, face to face with dietary supplements, FDA is on stand-by unless critical reports of some unsafe experiences while using them are reported to it. Congratulations, the burden is ours!

Finally, the point is: the more information you do gather about dieting methods, the best choice you may do and the less risks you may encounter.

Till next time, take care of your cells :)

Rabah Qial is a member of FattyBeauty.com editorial team. In addition to biology and computer science, he is also interested in scrutinizing the relation between diet and fat-acceptance/self-esteem trends.
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