Written By Lisa Adele Campbell |

Of all the useful products derived from plants, perfume has played the most provocative role in human affairs for more than 5,000 years. But what are these sensual, exotic and fun scents that we dabble into, and how they are processed?

Natural fragrances, extracted without destroying or altering the scent, are the most desirable. The scented compounds derived from flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, wood, and resins, are oils and are not water soluble. They must be extracted by using substances into which volatile oils dissolve. The end ingredients used in perfumery, called odorants, are categorized by the way they were extracted.

Concretes are considered the purest of the natural odorants. They are obtained through solvent extraction. Fragrant plant parts are immersed into non-polar organic solvents, which yield–after removal of the solvent–a solid or semi-solid wax. Concretes make a lovely addition to natural products and can be shaved, melted and infused. Spring-like mimosa and frangipani are examples.

Absolutes result when a concrete is extracted to a more concentrated state, by alcohol or hexane, to remove waxes and most odorless materials, producing an alcohol soluble, or semi-liquid oil. Most perfumes are created with a blend of absolutes. Jonquil, and its sister narcissus, are used in high-end perfumery. But for personal use, they can be blended into base oil producing natural perfume oil or into distilled water for floral water such as rose. Solvent extracted oils are very concentrated and close to the natural fragrance of the material used.

There are two basic C02 extractions. One is using carbon dioxide, C02, as a dense liquid solvent, and the other using Supercritical Fluid (SC02) as a dense fog solvent. Low pressure CO2 is the most desired of solvents as it leaves no toxic residues behind, and is often the best method for obtaining high quality extracts, especially from fragile material such as jasmine flowers. Natural lilac, vanilla and St. John’s Wort can be found in these categories.

Steam distillation and expression (i.e. pressing of the peels of citrus fruits to obtain volatile oils) of organic, wild-crafted, and farmed botanicals, produces beloved essential oils. One will not find many floral scents as essential oils because delicate flowers do not hold up under steam or physical process. Their natural scents are found as C02 or SC02 extracts and absolutes. A new term, “therapeutic grade,” has been added to this industry, which means the oils have been tested for purity and strength.

Over 60 percent of the fragrant compounds involved in perfumery are synthetic fragrances, based on the chemical structure of natural fragrances. It is often cheaper to synthesize a compound then to extract it. Confusing enough, they are called “pure.” They may or may not smell like the natural version. Fruity, flowery, and perfume scents like Egyptian Musk are in this form. As with natural oils, synthetic oils are used in cosmetic crafting, incenses, candles, soaps, and other body products.

After smelling, pricing and playing with scents, one will begin to distinguish the differences. There is much to dazzle the senses with, as new natural fragrances are being developed with advanced extraction methods, and personal cosmetic crafting is growing. And so, perfumery and aromatherapy lives on, and continues to captivate us.

References:

1. Simpson, Beryl Brintnall and Conner-Orgorzaly, Molly. Economic Botany: Plants In Our World. McGraw-Hill Science/Engineering/Math; 3rd edition. December, 2000.

2. www.herbshealth.com.

Are you thinking about the fast approaching holiday season, and the dreaded weight you gain every year eating all the holiday goodies? Are you looking for an answer to this annual dreaded holiday gift? Try warding off extra pounds with essential oils.

Using lemon and grapefruit oil collectively can help reduce the appetite. Lemon is a diuretic, and citrus helps the body get rid of toxins and release fat from the cells; and helps prevent the body from producing fat cells, as well as decrease in size by releasing fat from the cells.

Cinnamon helps promote liver health because it is a tremendous antioxidant. Cinnamon bark helps bring lipid levels into balance. Cinnamon is one of the most commonly used oils for stopping the body from producing new fat cells.

Ginger helps to stimulate weight loss through lipolysis, which is a process that encourages our cells to release the fat they are holding.

Peppermint oil is known to curb the appetite, and reduce cravings. It also helps to increase the sense of fullness and satisfaction after eating. It creates a sense of satiety, or balances the body from a nutritional standpoint, and we simply do not have the desire to eat what we normally would.  Other findings show that peppermint enhances the flavor and taste of the food you are consuming.

Together, peppermint and ginger help improve your digestion. This is one of the ways to better the way your body metabolizes your calories and digests your food.

An increase in energy is also very important when you are working to lose weight; citrus and peppermint help increase energy. Weight loss is not only about the calories burned or how we exercise, but it is also how your body is metabolically functioning. Citrus and peppermint oils stimulate all of those processes mentioned above.

A person can use these essential oils separately, however if taken together, in a blended form, they work cohesively, and sometimes more effectively.

How does an essential oil blend work? doTerra’s Essential Oil blends, for example, are “proprietary formulas for targeted wellness applications. They represent the converging wisdom of many years of therapeutic Essential Oil experience and validation of a growing body of research and scientific study. Harnessing the inherent living energies of plants is synergistically balanced to enhance product potency and benefits and contains on Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade (CPTG) essential oils,” according to their website and packaging. doTerra has a blend of oils, specifically formulated for weight loss called Slim & Sassy.

How do you “take” essential oils? A person can add drops to a glass of water or put them under the tongue. One could also take them in a vegetable capsule to swallow, or rub them on the bottom of the feet. No matter how you take them, your answer for weight loss just might be the magic of essential oils.

References:

1. www.doterra.com: Slim & Sassy Metabolic Blend, Essential Oils, Slim & Sassy TrimShake.

For more info, contact Penny Brock, doTerra Independent Product Consultant at (775) 853-6770, penny@doterrmagic.com or visit online at www.mydoterra.com/MagicOils.

Essential oils are natural aromatic compounds found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. They can be both beauti­fully and powerfully fragrant. If you have ever enjoyed the gift of a rose, a walk by a field of lavender, or the smell of fresh cut mint, you have experi­enced the aromatic qualities of essential oils. In addition to giving plants their distinctive smells, essential oils provide plants with protection against preda­tors and disease and play a role in plant pollination.

Essential oils are non water-based phytochemicals made up of volatile organic compounds. Although they are fat soluble, they do not include fatty lipids or acids found in vegetable and animal oils. Essential oils are very clean, almost crisp, to the touch and are immediately absorbed by the skin. Pure, unadulterated essential oils are translucent and range in color from crystal clear to deep blue.

Try this at home: Squeeze the peel of a ripe orange. The fragrant residue on your hand is full of essential oils.

In addition to their intrinsic benefits to plants and being beautifully fragrant to people, essential oils have been used throughout history in many cultures for their medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Modern scientific study and trends towards more holistic approaches to wellness are driving a revival and new discovery of essential oil health applications.

References:

1. doTERRA Essential Oils

For more info, contact Carol Christian at the Reno Alternative Health Clinic (775) 827-6888, now serving two locations: Gerber Medical Clinic, 1225 Westfield Ave. (775) 826-6888, and Ageless Zone Medical Spa, 5060 Meadowood Mall Circle (775) 826-8888.

There are two factors that affect the aging of the skin: Intrinsic and extrinsic. Let’s talk about extrinsic or external aging. This is the natural process of biological aging compiled with exterior causes such as sun exposure, air pollution, smoking, lifestyle, cosmetics and other allergens and lack of care. It is extrinsic aging that affects the appearance of the skin. The most damaging of all of these exterior causes is sunlight. In fact, it has been said that ninety percent of the aging of your skin is due to sun damage. If this is true, think of the control one has as to how much the skin actually ages.

We must protect the skin from the sun. The most effective anti-wrinkle cream is sunblock. The best protection is a physical block that is natural, such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide and iron oxides. Avoid the chemical sunscreen ingredient octyl methoxycinnamate (OCM)

Equally valuable is the use of nutrients that infuse into the tissue and support healthy cell development. Antioxidants are an answer to a healthier skin, but a key consideration as to the effects of a topical antioxidant is its ability to penetrate. Important antioxidant ingredients are superoxide dismutase, plant derived antioxidants, resveratrol (wine extracts), grape seed extracts, d-alpha tocopherol, l-ascorbic and betacarotene.

Work on these and you are well on your way to having younger looking skin, and can potentially slow down the aging process all together.

For more information contact the Powder Room on West Liberty Street at (775) 327-4631.

Microneedling is a simple, relatively new concept that can make the skin look younger by reducing lines, scars and discoloration. Applying tiny micro-punctures to the skin with fine needles stimulates the body’s natural healing response, promoting the proliferation of skin cells and the production of collagen. It is also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, but there is significantly more to it than that.

The microneedling concept was conceived in the 1990s in Germany, where the devices are now manufactured under the Dermaroller™ trademark. A Dermaroller consists of surgical stainless steel microneedles that are precisely imbedded in a small drum-like device that looks much like a tiny lawn aerator. It was originally created for medical indications, but other uses for the device were subsequently identified and imitators of the concept soon followed.

The Medical Dermaroller comes in several sizes, to treat a variety of skin conditions. Studies show that it reduces acne, scarring, stretch marks, oiliness, hyperpigmentation, cellulite and enlarged pores. Because the microneedles of the Dermaroller penetrate the outer layer of the skin, the procedure can dramatically increase the effectiveness of skin treatments such as topical hormone medications, serums, creams and gels.

The Medical Dermaroller procedure requires a topical anesthesia due to the depth at which the microneedles of the medical device penetrates the skin. These devices are designed for single treatments only, by a qualified medical provider who has been trained in their use.

Around four to five days after undergoing the Medical Dermaroller procedure, the client begins follow-up treatments with a Home Dermaroller, which helps to accelerate, stimulate, thicken and rejuvenate the skin. The Home Dermaroller has a shallower penetration, so it does not require topical anesthesia and this phase can be done at home by the client.

The client simply rolls the Home Dermaroller on the skin two to three times per week, as instructed, to accomplish a particular goal. Generally, the client should only feel a prickly sensation and there is rarely any pain. The Home Dermaroller is easily cleaned and, depending on the amount of skin area that is being covered, can be reused up to 150 times over the next year or so.

To date, more than 275,000 medical cosmetic procedures were performed worldwide without complications. With appropriate training, safeguards and preparation, the Dermaroller is a safe and effective tool that can help persons of all ages, complexions and races to achieve dramatic results in skin restoration.
Dermaroller™ services are offered at Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center & Spa in Reno.

References:

1. Banga, AK et al. New Technologies to Allow Transdermal Delivery of Therapeutic Proteins and Small Water-Soluble Drugs. Am J Drug Deliv 2006; 4 (4): 221-230.
2. Guohua, L. et al. Microchannels created by sugar and metal microneedles. Journal of Pharmaceutical Science 2009; 99 (4);1931-41.
3. Prausnitz, M. The Mechanics of Microneedles. Proceedings of the second Joint EMBS Conference, Houston, Tx, Oct.23-26, 2002.
4. Fabbrocini, G et al. Acne scar treatment using skin needling. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology. 2009; 34:874-79.

For more info, contact Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center & Spa at (775) 853-6600 or visit online at www.steamboatsprings.org.

No. They are not members of a new cult. They are merely a rapidly expanding group discovering a new and delightful way to enjoy the effects of many items they may already have right at home.

For example:

• Orange ring, which is rich in vitamin A, can do wonders for your face. Squeeze a few drops into your palm and smooth over your skin
• Rubbing a slice of tomato over blackheads is healthy way to relieve an unsightly problem.
• Apply the last bit of egg white from a broken eggshell to the lines under your eyes and you’ll soon find them fading away.

The growing concern for health is certainly a reflection of the new-found interest in ourselves and our environment. We have also become more aware of our ancestors and are beginning to take pride in learning about home remedies used by grandparents and great-grandparents. These folksy tonics not only can be a lot of fun to try, but may prove quite effective as well.

Many of our most common beauty problems can be tackled via our own kitchens – often through the use of foods that otherwise would have been thrown away. It can be very rewarding to watch the results obtained by using truly natural ingredients and learning how to concot beauty potions of your own.

Let’s look at some of the more common beauty dilemmas and see what can be done to deal with them.

Dry Skin

• Natural vegetable oils (i.e. safflower oil) taken internally are helpful to both skin and hair and can easily be added to salad dressings.
• Mix equal parts of baby oil and table salt. Massage over face and throat. The friction of the salt will slough off dead skin while the baby oil provides moisture.

Barley water:
1/2 cups pearl barley
2 1/2 quarts boiling water
2 lemons
6 oranges
honey to taste

Simmer barley for one hour. Drain. Squeeze juice from fruit. Drinking this cleans up pores, adds moisture and tones your skin.

• Use skim milk at room temperature. Pat on face and let dry.
• Mix oatmeal and one whipped egg into a paste. Apply to face. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water, then cool.
• Make a mask of dried apricots (soak first) and honey. Rinse with a splash of warm water.
• Mayonnaise can be applied to the face as a night cream or used as a mask.

To Refine Pores

• Mix a dash of fresh lemon with yogurt and apply to face. Steam and rinse with warm water.
• Beat an egg white with a few grains of alum. Apply to face. Leave on for 5 to 20 minutes. Rinse.
• Slice a tomato into thick slices and let juice and seeds drain off. Mash and apply to face. Cover with a hot washcloth for 15 minutes. Rinse.
• Ice cubes can be rubbed over your face to close pores.
• Soak cotton pads in buttermilk and pat on face. Let dry for 15 minutes and rinse with cold water.
• Other: Almond meal, aloe juice, cornmeal, camphor water, honey, strawberry, vinegar.

Wrinkles

• Cocoa butter facial. Mix equal parts cocoa butter and lanolin. Beat in a double boiler over hot water, mix together. Rub over face and neck. Leave on overnight. Wash off with cold water.

Cucumber wrinkle cream:
1 cucumber peel
3 ounces lanolin
3 ounces almond oil
1/4 teaspoon tincture of benzoin

Chop and heat peel with oils for 30 mins in double boiler. Strain and add benzoin. Use as a night cream.

• Mix 2 teaspoon herb tea (cooled) with egg white and 1 teaspoon powdered milk. Apply to face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water. Repeat nightly.

Acne

• Boil fresh green beans. Mash and apply to skin blemishes. Let dry and rinse off in cool water.
• Slice three peeled onions. Cook in shortening till transparent. Cool. Wrap in cheesecloth and apply as poultice.
• Mix one teaspoon of alum with one quart of water and use as a wash three times a day.
• Make a puree of tomatoes or lemon and apply to face.
• Combine bran with baking soda and water to make a paste. Apply to face for 15 minutes. Rinse with one part apple cider vinegar to 8 parts water.
• An oatmeal-and-water paste is effective in clearing up blackheads.
• Dilute 3 to 4 tablespoons of brewers’ yeast to a soft dough consistency and apply to affected areas.

Miscellaneous

• After enjoying a cup of rose hip or chamomile tea, relax with the tea bags over your eyes. Or soak cotton pads in the tea and apply to eyes. This will relieve redness and puffiness.
• Cod liver oil can do marvelous things for your face. Simply apply it for acne, freckles, blotches, sunburn, rash, etc. Leave it on as long as possible and rinse in cool water.

There are, no doubt, hundreds of other beauty aids you might use. They may have been passed down to you by your mother or grandmother. Or you may have discovered them on your own.

However you come by them, use them. Don’t be afraid that others may catch you with “egg on your face.” Join the thousands of people who have already decided to let nature lead the way to beauty.

Apple Cider Vinegar should be given a cape. Seriously, it should be given a beautiful golden cape, ACV written across the back with a thunderbolt, or something of the sort. It deserves recognition. It hangs out in our cupboards, often pushed aside as we reach for its smoother cousin, balsamic, or its useful relative, white wine. It’s true, balsamic is delicious, and adds to food a gourmet quality that is tough to beat; and white wine vinegar works significantly better than Super ACV for cleaning the house. However, for health and beauty, its good ol’ humble apple cider vinegar that is blessed with super powers.

Apple Cider Vinegar can be used externally and internally for beautification. Internally, Apple Cider Vinegar balances our body’s pH balance, a key factor in healthy metabolism and in detoxifying. Our bodies are generally too acidic. This is due to the digestive enzymes our bodies produce to break down proteins, fats, bad food combinations and caffeine. Intuitively, it seems adding something acidic, such as vinegar, would make matters worse, but the contrary is true. Apple Cider Vinegar is a living organism. Much like yogurt, it helps your digestive system break down things that are difficult and time consuming. With ACV, proteins and fats are broken down more efficiently, ensuring your metabolism is kept running strong and hot. Exactly what any of us watching those pounds want.

To use Apple Cider Vinegar as a regular tonic, twice a day drink a mixture of one 8oz cup of room temperature water with 1 tablespoon of raw, unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar, with meals. The first few times, the taste will not be pleasant, but it becomes agreeable. Just think, as you’re gulping: Fast Metabolism. Beautiful Skin. Better Digestion.

Externally, Apple Cider Vinegar is the perfect skin toner and hair rinse. Our entire skin is covered in something called “The Acid Mantle”. In keeping with the superhero theme, think of this mantle as your own precious armor against the myriad oxidants, bacteria, viruses and other microscopic aggressors. Most nuisances hit the acid mantle and either dissolve, or are barred entry into your precious dermis. Unfortunately, we are constantly making a mess of this barrier with our alkaline soaps and chlorinated water, Once disturbed, the acid mantle requires 6-8 hours before it is on full guard again. This is particularly bothersome for our face, neck, hands, and chest: areas that are regularly exposed to outside environments. ACV returns this mantle immediately. It is the skin’s perfect pH balance.

To use as a toner, mix 1 part Raw, Unfiltered ACV and 1 part distilled water in a bottle. After washing, apply to skin with a cotton ball. For break-outs, soak a cotton ball in pure ACV, and press onto blemish for five minutes twice a day. Watch the inflammation go down.

As a bi-weekly hair rinse, Apple Cider Vinegar breaks down chlorine and product build-up, leaving your hair shiny and soft, and more able to absorb beneficial ingredients in your conditioner. To use, simply bring your bottle of vinegar into the shower with you, skip shampoo, and rinse your hair with vinegar, massaging it into your scalp. Follow with a rich conditioner and enjoy.

In so many regards, it’s Apple Cider Vinegar to the rescue.

CHECK THE LABEL!

By Lauren Birtwhistle |

The Organic cosmetic business is booming. But do not be fooled by the organic label stamped on a bottle of lotion. There are loopholes that manufacturers use to sell their products to you as organic, even when they are not. In fact, you really need to become a label detective to make sure you are buying organic.

Why be so cautious? Your skin is your body’s first line of defense against environmental toxins of all kinds; but at the same time, it acts as a giant sponge. With over one billion pores, your skin generally soaks up whatever you put on it within 10-15 minutes. Remember that your skin is a living organ, similar to other organs like your digestive system. Thus if you are eating organic foods, but using synthetic and toxic skin care products, it really defeats the purpose of what you are trying to do.

The following is a list of organic certifying seals you will commonly find on cosmetic products claiming to be organic. Note that this list is in a particular order — from the best, most restrictive (95-100%) to the just OK (at least 10%):

1. USDA Organic (95-100% organic)

2. Australian Certified Organic (95%-100% organic)

3. European Union/Agriculture Biologique (at least 95% organic)

4. BIO/Germany (at least 95% organic)

5. QAI (at least 70% organic)

6. CAAQ/Canada (at least 70% organic)

7. Eco Cert (at least 10% organic of total ingredients)

But your detective work is not done yet. Remember that companies are often sneaky about getting themselves into that sought-after “organic category”. So you must also make sure that your beauty products do not contain synthetic additives in them. The only way to do this is to take the time to read the ingredient label from start to finish. After a while, you will become more familiar with the names of certain chemicals and your label reading will take less time. Below is a list of some of the most common synthetic materials used in beauty products:

1. Propylene Glycol (PG) and Butylene Glycol

2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and related

3. DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (monoethanolamine) & TEA (triethanolamine)

4. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG 4 – 200)

5. Sodium Hydroxide

6. Triclosan

7. DMDM and Urea (Imidazolidnyl)

8. Parabens (Methyl, Butyl, Propyl, etc)

9. Alcohol, Isopropyl (SD-40)

10. Mineral Oil

11. FD&C Color Pigments

12. Fragrances (synthetic fragrances will have names like “lavender fragrance”, because no lavender was even used!).

No reputable organic, natural or holistic company will use ANY of these because there are always natural alternatives to synthetic chemicals. Additionally, you simply cannot make a truly organic product using synthetic chemicals. So, even if the name or packaging lures you with words like “all natural”, “healthy”, “holistic”, “cruelty free” and even the very word “organic”, turn that package right around and let that ingredient label speak for itself!

References:

http://www.newstarget.com/022300.html

by Cindy L Sult, RN |

Onychomycosis (Tinea unguim) means fungal infection of the nail. It is the most common disease of the nails and constitutes about one half of all nail abnormalities. According to the AAFP (American Academy of Family Physicians) incidences of this infection are probably much higher than the reported 2 to 14 percent of the American population. This relates to about 25 million Americans who may experience significant psychosocial problems due the appearance of their nails, or fear of spreading the disease to others.

This fungal infection affects the nail bed, matrix or plate. Toenails are more commonly affected than the fingernails. Fungal infections of the nails can spread to other areas of the body and other persons. Onychomycosis accounts for one third of skin fungal infections and one half of all nail disease. There are several classifications of Onychomycosis with dermatophytes or fungus being the most common. Risk factors include: Humidity or warm climates, diabetes mellitus or poor health, increasing age, immunosuppression (eg:HIV or drug induced) or heredity. It spreads easily in moist areas where people walk barefoot such as showers or locker rooms. Also sharing nail clippers or use of occlusive footwear can cause its spread, thus the name athlete’s foot.

There is also a reason for the expression of “no shoes, no shirt, no service” signs in public places. Not sure about the shirt except for the obvious reason that people do not really want to look at your belly while eating, and the shoes definitely prevent fungal spread.

The symptoms of fungal infections of the skin include reddish patches near the soles of the feet, itchiness, extreme dryness, and/or abnormal peeling of the skin. Other areas of the skin can also be affected including between the fingers and the groin area. The infection can also cause pain, which may result in limited movement and this can exacerbate poor circulation. Symptoms of fungal infection of the nail plate are a thickened, yellow or cloudy appearance. The nails can become rough and crumbly, or can separate from the nail bed. Be aware, if all of your nails are involved then it is probably not a fungal infection. Instead, it is likely one of the other maladies that can cause nail deformities, such as nail psoriasis, lichen planus, contact dermatitis, trauma, nail bed tumor or yellow nail syndrome. Diagnosis can be confirmed by a scraping of the nail for a culture or a microscopic exam to identify the fungus.

Treatment of nail fungal infections has been historically challenging because the infection is embedded within the nail and thus difficult to treat. The most common treatments include topical and oral medications. Over the counter creams and ointments generally do not help treat this condition, but they may prevent becoming infected or the recurrence of the infection.

Prescription medications help about 50 percent of patients, but can cause serious side effects including damage to the liver and interactions with other commonly taken medications. Folk remedies, although not scientifically proven or disproven effective, include the topical use of listerine mouth wash, tea tree oil, and grapefruit seed extract. The newest contender on the block is Laser treatment. Although not yet certified by the FDA, it is reported to be about 90 percent effective. Laser treatment for toenail fungus works by heat building up under the nail and killing the fungus. This treatment is quick, well tolerated and effectively kills the fungus while leaving all the surrounding healthy tissue unaffected. Once treated, it usually takes 9 months to 1 year for the new healthy nail to grow out.

Practices that may aide in the treatment and prevent the recurrence of Onychomycosis include:
1) Wearing 100-percent cotton socks and changing them often to prevent retention of moisture.
2) Choosing breathable footwear
3) Protecting feet in shared bathing areas
4) Keeping feet dry throughout the day
5) Recognizing and quickly treating recurring infections
6) Maintaining and improving chronic health conditions (controlling diabetes, quitting smoking, etc)
7) Practicing proper foot hygiene

References:

1. Fotona Aesthetics Lasers, Treatment of Skin Fungal Infection 1064 Nd:YAG
2. 2American Family Physician Feb. 15 2001 treating Onychomcosis
3. Wikipedia-Onychomcosis
4. Laser Treatment For Onychomycocis, by Dr. Eswararamanan My 06 2009

For more info, contact Cosmetic Aesthetics Laser Salon at (775) 622-8505.

by Jennifer Gray, Pharmacist |

Eczema comes in many shapes and sizes; but one thing is constant, the ITCH. It is always there taunting its victims, urging them to abandon all control and scratch. “It feels so good to scratch that I keep on doing it even though I know it will hurt more when I stop,” says one teenage sufferer. What can be done about this increasingly common skin affliction?

First of all, education and understanding the reasons for the disease go a long way to treating it. Environment, diet and heredity all contribute to the development of eczema. It is estimated that 15 million people in the United States currently suffer from some form of this disease. The National Institutes of Health estimate that 10 to 20 percent of all infants will suffer from eczema at one time or another until age five. Between the ages of five and fifteen there is a significant improvement in skin health.

Eczema covers a wide range of symptoms and characteristics. In children, the most common form is atopic eczema. Like most eczema, the itch is the first symptom. Once the child begins to scratch, a rash develops and worsens as the scratching continues. Often an infection settles into the rash from the germs and irritants hiding under the fingernails. Common sites for childhood eczema are cheeks, forehead, scalp, inner arms, back of knees, and trunk. No skin area is immune to the rash, though. Treating eczema in children is often difficult and frustrating.

Steroidal creams, antihistamines, and petroleum products are frequently prescribed to stop the itch and trap in skin moisture. Natural skin care products, like Nature’s Baby Face and Body Moisturizer, contain emollients aloe and Shea butter which sooth and moisturize the skin. While it cannot cure eczema, a regimen of moisturizing with products such as these can lessen the itching by increasing the moisture and can make the skin look and feel better.

Adults may first notice skin, especially on exposed skin like the hands or feet, becoming dry and flaky with red patches. Eventually the patches begin to itch and burn. Sometimes the eczema is more of a red bump that may be filled with clear fluid.

Scratching releases the fluid making the rash appear wet. Scratching, as in the case of childhood atopic eczema, leads to more irritation and itching, and the cycle goes on and on. Malcolm’s Miracle Hand and Body Treatment uses the natural healing powers of hemp seed oil to increase skin’s moisture and repair the affected patch.

Rich in Omega-6 Gamma-Linolenic Acid, Malcolm’s Miracle absorbs easily and quickly into the skin. Essential oils, such as Lavender and Rosemary, soothe and cool the skin while encouraging dry skin to produce its own oil.

Once an eczema episode gets going, it is impossible to stop. Preventing one from beginning and regularly moisturizing the area are the best lines of defense. A healthy diet rich in Omega-3, limited stress, and avoidance of known allergens can help reduce the frequency and severity of eczema attacks.

References:

1. Malcolm’s Miracles.com/allproducts
2. www.aad.org, American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)
3. www.nationaleczema.org, National Eczema Association (NEA)
4. www.skincarephysicians.com
5. www.isdionline.org, The Inflammatory Skin Disease Institute (ISDI) on patient education and public awareness
6. www.protopic.com/Understanding-Eczema
7. www.derma.org, Society of Dermatology Physicians Assistants
8. www.nlmnih.gov, US National Library of Medicine, National Institute of Health
9. www.fda.gov, Food and Drug Administration
10. Andrew Weil, M.D. “Therapeutic Hemp Oil” www.csdf.org, Children’s Skin Disease Foundation

For more info, contact Jennifer Gray at (775) 232-5766.

by Jennifer Gray, Pharmacist |

You have hit that age where suddenly no one mistakes you for being in your twenties anymore. It is time to take a critical look at your skin and decide which skin care program is the best to hide fine lines and a sallow complexion. Take a cyber-walk through the internet and one will find a billion dollar industry of anti-aging products out there waiting for the aging masses to buy. While all claim to work —be it by miracle or method —there are a handful which work better than most. How does one decide which product is the best for aging skin? Does natural always mean better? Does the natural product work as well as the chemical laden one?

The two mid-priced products which represent the best from each side of the debate are DeVita’s Optimum Rejuvenation (built on a platform of essential oils and botanical derivatives) and Olay’s Regenerist (which includes an Avobenzone based sun block along with an exclusive amino-peptide complex). Both have received rave reviews from consumers, dermatologists, and other skin experts for actually delivering on their promises to minimize fine lines and other signs of aging. The basic difference between the two products is the origin of their chemicals.

In DeVita’s Optimum Rejuvenation, the undisputed healing powers of essential oils are combined with herb extracts and amino acids to balance and restore the skin’s natural health. Free radical neutralizers actually stop aging of the cells and studies have shown an increase in new cell growth. The botanical and natural ingredients produce less negative side effects and fewer allergic reactions. This product does not include a UVA/UVB and sun blocking agent which skin experts agree is the number one way to prevent premature aging of the skin. For a complete anti-aging skin care program, the consumer must also buy DeVita’s Solar Protective Moisturizer—a rich, natural aloe vera based moisturizer with UVA/UVB protection that has been voted the Best Sunscreen Moisturizer product in Natural Solutions Magazine’s “Beauty with a Conscience Awards.” Solar Protective Moisturizer uses zinc oxide as its main SPF ingredient.

Olay Regenerist, on the other hand, boasts an effective SPF 50 sun block using Avobenzone as its active ingredient. Avobenzone although an inexpensive UVA/UVB and sun block, has lately come under some criticism. It breaks down at relatively low temperatures rendering its UVA/UVB and sun blocking abilities somewhat questionable. Furthermore, once Avobenzone breaks down, its byproducts collect in the fatty layers below the skin. This breakdown also exposes the skin to more free radicals and eventually accelerates aging of the skin. Parabens, used to increase the product’s shelf life have been linked to certain cancers. Skin repair and rejuvenation is handled by

Regenerist’s unique “Amino-Peptide Complex.” This formula consists of a specific pentapeptide (Pal-KTTKS), vitamin B3, vitamin E, pro-vitamin B5, green tea extract, and naturally occurring allantoin. Like DeVita’s Optimum Rejuvenation, this combination of chemicals helps the skin appear firmer and retain moisture better. The skin is younger looking and more radiant, fine lines around the lips and eyes seemingly disappear over time.

Taking care of your health ultimately benefits skin the most. Plenty of water exercise and fruits and vegetables rich in anti-oxidants along with minimal UAV/UVB exposure will ultimately prevent premature aging of the skin. Before deciding which anti-aging cream is better, be cognizant of the fact that the more natural products will benefit more than just your face. The combination of natural and botanical ingredients is less likely to cause allergic reactions than chemically laden products. Furthermore, products such as DeVita Optimum Rejuvenation, are not as harsh or have as many side effects as any of the Olay product lines.

References
www.olay.com/boutique/regenerist-anti-aging-treatment/
www.devita.net/products/ProductView.mgi2?mgiToken=388O2AJ11EH1G515B&ID=DAL
www.beautypedia.com/Brand/Olay/174.aspx
www.comsumersearch.com/moisturizers/best-facial-moisturizers
www.biomedicine.org/medicine-technology-1/OTC-Anti-Aging-Products-3A-Hype-or-Hope-3F-35-2
Alicia Amos
ezinearticles.com/?Anti-Aging-Creak-Review—Chemical-Vs-Natural-Anti-Aging-Creams/ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alicia_Amos
Gloria Talbot
www.associatedcontent.com/article.1312680/skin_care_products_natural_ingredients.html?cat=69
www.savvyskin.com/the-best-sunscreen-and-sunblock
www.theperformanceleader.com/devita-review-ortimal-rejuvenation=$34-46
ezinearticles.com/?Natural-Skin-Care-Vs-Chemical-Products—What’s-the-Real-Difference?&id=2761648
www.skincaredaily.com/beauty/skin-care-products-labels-natural-vs-toxic-chemicals.asp
www.care2.com
www.mercola.com
ezinearticles.com/?expert=Louise_Lundgren

For more information contact Jennifer Gray, Pharmacist at (775) 232-5766.

Written by Lyndi Hutchinson, LMT |

By now, we have all reveled in the wonderful news that chocolate is good for us. Research has established that dark chocolate – at least 70 percent cocoa, no milk and sweetened with natural sugars – is loaded with flavonoids, age fighting antioxidants which are beneficial to our health.

Now begs the question: If chocolate is good for us inside, what about our outside? Chocolate continues to amaze us by becoming a newly recognized contributor to our exterior health as well!

Spas around the world have incorporated chocolate into their menus of services including scrubs, masks, manicures and other body treatments. According to the Global News Products Database, in 2004 there were 85 new cocoa based skin treatments.

What actual benefit comes from applying chocolate on the skin?

Ivy Mills, of Valhalla Essences, has been researching chemical sensitivity and natural alternatives for over five years. She states “chocolate contains an array of phytochemicals, considered highly valuable to our health.” When it is spread on our skin, “chocolate will return a youthful glow and protect from the effects of sun and pollution.”

In the United Kingdom, the Amala Spa and Club features a chocolate facial and wrap. Their clients enjoy the mood-boosting aroma of chocolate, which causes the brain to release endorphins for a euphoric feeling. Along with the exhilarating scrub of chocolate, naturally loaded with magnesium and moisturizing properties, the experience is heavenly.

The magic of chocolate is no secret to Manhattan’s Le Petit Spa. “Chocolate is very rejuvenating to your skin. It is moisturizing and good for cell renewal,” said owner Howard Kohlenberg.

According to aesthetician Zaza Murariu at Ajune Spa, also in Manhattan, “caffeine stimulates the circulatory system and firms the skin.”

Chocolate, long adored for its sweet and sometimes addictive flavor, is now shedding its soiled reputation as a polluter of the body to a healer and protector. With goodness this delicious, what are you waiting for?

References:

1. http://ezinearticles.com/?Chocolate-is-Good-for-You—Inside-and-Out&id=109714&opt=p…

2. http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20030827/dark-chocolate-is-healthy-chocolate

3. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/3353535/chocolate-facial-why-the-cocoa-bean-is-your…

4. http://www.foxnews.com/printer_friendly_story/0,3566,162783,00.html

For more info, contact Lyndi Hutchinson, LMT at (775) 846-3593, certified massage therapist specializing in Chinese facial massage at the Senses Sanctuary.

Written by Lana Nickerson |

Coloring your hair is perhaps the quickest and most dramatic way to change your look.  It is also a good excuse to go out and buy a new wardrobe!

However, different coloring methods suit different hair styles, so get some expert advice when deciding which one to choose.   Here are some things to consider before you get started:

Skin Tone: Your new hair color should complement your skin tone.  Fair-skinned people won’t look as good with very dark hair because it draws color out of their skin.  Dark, tanned skin won’t look as good when mixed with a one-tone blonde; but four or five blonde, chestnut or honey tones look fabulous.

BLONDE: If you want to be blonde, talk the process through with your colorist (or stylist) before you go for it.  The change should be relatively painless on virgin dark brown hair, but if your hair has been permanently tinted then the process will be a much longer process.    Never attempt this kind of dye job on your own for the first time.

RED: Red is the ultimate sexy shade, it’s a color that cries out for attention.  Hair holds on to red-toned pigments well, so going copper-top can be easy for most people.   But be warned – if you are blonde you will usually have to go two or three shades darker than your natural color to achieve a rich red (brunette), and it’s not easy to reverse.

BROWN: Brunette is always a safe choice as it suits nearly every girl in town.  Varying the shade with highlights can achieve a huge range of looks.  From chocolate brown and bronze shades to honey or dark blonde, combinations of natural tones give incredible shine while darker-pigmented tints add condition to your hair.

BLACK: This is by far the easiest color because the molecules in black tints are larger and will cover all hair types very effectively.  Caution is needed when using black as it only tends to look good on people with darker and olive skin tones.

Is there such a thing as natural hair color?

Yes, but natural botanical hair colors from plants like henna and chamomile infusions are semi-permanent and will not last as long, nor will they give you consistent results. Unfortunately, in order for any hair color to be permanent, oxidative (peroxide) dyes must be present.  However, there are permanent natural hair coloring products that use natural botanical ingredients and can gently provide beautiful permanent hair color while minimizing exposure to harsh chemical damage; both to you and your hair.

Modern, commercial permanent hair coloring products will typically contain these three ingredients in varying amounts:

Hydrogen Peroxide is a bleaching and oxidizing agent, detergent and antiseptic.   A good natural permanent hair color contains the least amount of peroxide necessary to open the hair cuticle; typically 2-4% by volume, compared to commercial color products that may use 10 times as much.

p-Phenylenadiamine (PPD) is the coloring agent. It is an extremely toxic chemical which may cause severe allergic reations in some people. A good natural hair color will use only the minimum amount necessary, as little as 0.08% can be effective.   Some commercial hair coloring products may contain up to 6%.

Ammonia is a toxic reactive and corrosive chemical widely used in fertilizer, plastics and explosives. Together with peroxide, it is used to open the hair cuticle and remove existing color in preparation for the new color.   High quality natural hair coloring products do not need to use ammonia.

What’s better for my hair, semi-permanent or permanent color?

Semi-permanent color gives your hair a higher shine and enhanced condition, but it won’t lift natural hair color.  Also, a semi-permanent tint will not cover large amounts of grey hair (more than 50%).   If a permanent tint is used correctly and has significant amount of natural plant extracts (more than 97%), you will always achieve a beautiful effect.

Will coloring my hair damage it?

Hair coloring can damage your hair if you apply too many permanent colors to your hair, or if you are constantly changing your hair color. In this case, you must regularly use deep conditioning treatments and the right shampoo. Also, applying an oil to your hair before washing, like avocado or jojoba oil, can help to protect and restore your hair. Essential oils can also be added to your shampoo like Lavender, Orange and Rosemary.

Why can colored hair look dull?

Over-processing is the main cause of dull hair.  If your hair is starting to look dull, try using a natural hair color that contains important natural elements like Golden Millet, as well as Olive Leaf, Birch, Grape seed and Walnut extracts.  These elements play an important role in maintaining the health, structure and shine of your hair.

Coloring Tips

• When you have more than 50% grey hair, your selection of color is greater and it is easier to obtain lighter shades

• The quality of shampoo you use can play a major role in hair color fading.  Use a shampoo specifically made for color treated hair.

Safety Factors

Hair color is considered safe for use by pregnant women if the harmful fumes or odors can be avoided. Most people are under the misconception that the problem with coloring hair during pregnancy is only the penetration of the product into the scalp or the skin. The truth of the matter is that the danger comes from inhaling the toxic fumes too.  If it’s a warm day, sitting outdoors while your hair processes is a great way to avoid inhaling fumes and the sun will help your hair color process more effectively or ask your stylist to cover your hair with a plastic bag to keep the fumes enclosed.

References:

1. SanoTint Product Information for Hair Professionals

2. VIVASAN Product Reference

3. science.howstuffworks.com/hair-coloring2.htm

4. www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html

For more information, contact Lana Nickerson at (775)826-VIVA, or write to info@vivasanusa.com.

Visit Sanotint at www.vivasanusa.com

By Jamie Agee |

The changing of the seasons often times brings about changes to the skin. You may already be noticing the difference—dryness, flakiness and sometimes itchiness, are signs your skin is falling victim to the cooler temperatures. Luckily, with minimal effort, your skin can beat the lackluster spell cast upon it by winter and come out glowing, radiant and, most importantly—hydrated.

Food Therapy

The obvious first step would include drinking lots of water. While water intake is important, eating the right foods can be equally effective. Water bound to food molecules is processed by the body at a molecular level, hydrating at a faster pace than a simple glass of water. Foods with high-water content include melons, berries, cucumbers, apples, peaches, plumbs, fresh tomatoes, iceberg lettuce, celery and peas. Fish and flaxseed oil are also highly recommended. These oils, which are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, are known to help replenish moisture in dry skin and hair. Eating sensibly gives skin the nutrients it needs to look its best. Combined with 6-8 glasses of water a day, your skin will receive the hydration it needs from the inside out.

Natural Skin Care

To help chronically dry skin retain more of its natural moisture, aromatherapists recommend the use of essential oils, in addition to plant and herb extracts. Almond oil and rosewater are excellent moisturizing lubricants for normal, dry and sensitive skin. Almond oil replaces necessary body oils while rosewater is a gentle astringent and moisturizer replacing liquid to the cells and tightening the skin. Fruit oils nourish, invigorate and hydrate the skin. Citrus fruits, along with bananas, pineapples, apples, and melons, are popular natural ingredients as they promote skin development. Aloe Vera, hemp, coco, and shea butter are some of the most nourishing moisturizers for severe dry skin.

Stay away!

While a toasty fire might sound appealing during these cooler months, it could actually be robbing you of much-needed moisture. The warm air from fireplaces, heaters, and blow dryers are known to leave your skin dry and flaky. Other offenders include coffee, herbal teas, soda, diuretics, asparagus, cough drops with menthol and alcohol.

Incredible Edible Hydration:

Banana-Cream Mask

For a simple skin treatment you can do in the comfort of your own home, follow this recipe for a banana-cream mask. This is one of the most nourishing and hydrating masks you can use.

Note: This mask is rather rich and therefore not recommended for oily skin types. Shelf Life – 6 hours in the refrigerator.

Ingredients:

• 1 organic banana

• 1 ½  tbsp organic honey

Mash the banana with the back of a fork. Add honey and continue mashing until mixture is creamy. Apply to a clean face with a brush. Allow the mask to sit for 25 to 30 minutes. Wash off and Voila!

References:

1. All natural beauty. http://allnaturalbeauty.us/hbr_mainpage.htm

2. Care 2 make a difference? http://www.care2.com/greenliving/dry-skin-and-hair-3-remedies.html

For more info, contact Hedy Dawson at (775) 828-4339 at Hedy’s Tender Touch.

Food Therapy
The obvious first step would include drinking lots of water. While water intake is important, eating the right foods can be equally effective. Water bound to food molecules is processed by the body at a molecular level, hydrating at a faster pace than a simple glass of water. Foods with high-water content include melons, berries, cucumbers, apples, peaches, plumbs, fresh tomatoes, iceberg lettuce, celery and peas. Fish and flaxseed oil are also highly recommended. These oils, which are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, are known to help replenish moisture in dry skin and hair. Eating sensibly gives skin the nutrients it needs to look its best. Combined with 6-8 glasses of water a day, your skin will receive the hydration it needs from the inside out.

Natural Skin Care
To help chronically dry skin retain more of its natural moisture, aromatherapists recommend the use of essential oils, in addition to plant and herb extracts. Almond oil and rosewater are excellent moisturizing lubricants for normal, dry and sensitive skin. Almond oil replaces necessary body oils while rosewater is a gentle astringent and moisturizer replacing liquid to the cells and tightening the skin. Fruit oils nourish, invigorate and hydrate the skin. Citrus fruits, along with bananas, pineapples, apples, and melons, are popular natural ingredients as they promote skin development. Aloe Vera, hemp, coco, and shea butter are some of the most nourishing moisturizers for severe dry skin.

Stay away!
While a toasty fire might sound appealing during these cooler months, it could actually be robbing you of much-needed moisture. The warm air from fireplaces, heaters, and blow dryers are known to leave your skin dry and flaky. Other offenders include coffee, herbal teas, soda, diuretics, asparagus, cough drops with menthol and alcohol.

Incredible Edible Hydration: Banana-Cream Mask

For a simple skin treatment you can do in the comfort of your own home, follow this recipe for a banana-cream mask. This is one of the most nourishing and hydrating masks you can use.
Note: This mask is rather rich and therefore not recommended for oily skin types. Shelf Life – six hours in the refrigerator.

Ingredients:

• 1 organic banana
• 1 ½ tbsp organic honey

Mash the banana with the back of a fork. Add honey and continue mashing until mixture is creamy. Apply to a clean face with a brush. Allow the mask to sit for 25 to 30 minutes. Wash off and Voila!

References:

1. All natural beauty. allnaturalbeauty.us/hbr_mainpage.htm
2. Care 2 make a difference? www.care2.com/greenliving/dry-skin-and-hair-3-remedies.html

For more info, contact Hedy Dawson at (775) 828-4339 at Hedy’s Tender Touch.