May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

After a small hiatus of a few weeks, and I truly apologize for that; I came back in full force on this beautiful Mother's Day. May is a special month of the year because it is the beginning of summer; the flowers are blooming, the temperature are warming up. But May is also this year the Skin Cancer Month. A true awareness period when too many times may is the month when we start shedding the clothes and exposing more skin.

What is Skin Cancer? there are three types of skin cancer and they are:

• Basal cell carcinoma  
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Malignant melanoma

Basal cell carcinomas are present on sun-exposed areas of the skin, especially the face. They rarely metastasize, and rarely cause death. They are easily treated with surgery or radiation. Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) are common, but much less common than basal cell cancers. They metastasize more frequently than BCCs. Even then, the metastasis rate is quite low, with the exception of SCCs of the lip, ear, and in immunosuppressed patients. Melanomas are the least frequent of the 3 common skin cancers. They frequently metastasize, and are deadly once spread. Less common skin cancers include: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, Merkel cell carcinoma, Kaposi's sarcoma, keratoacanthoma, spindle cell tumors, sebaceous carcinomas, microcystic adnexal carcinoma, Pagets's disease of the breast, atypical fibroxanthoma, leimyosarcoma, and angiosarcoma

The BCC and the SCC often carry a UV-signature mutation indicating that these cancers are caused by UV-B radiation via the direct DNA damage. However the malignant melanoma is predominantly caused by UV-A radiation via the indirect DNA damage. The indirect DNA damage is caused by free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Research indicates that the absorption of three sunscreen ingredients into the skin, combined with a 60-minute exposure to UV, leads to an increase of free radicals in the skin, if applied in too little quantities and too infrequently. However, the researchers add that newer creams often do not contain these specific compounds, and that the combination of other ingredients tends to retain the compounds on the surface of the skin. They also add the frequent re-application reduces the risk of radical formation.

The mechanism that generates the first two forms is different from the mechanism that generates the melanoma. The direct DNA damage is responsible for BCC and SCC while the indirect DNA damage causes melanoma. The mortality rate of BCC and SCC is around 0.3% causing 2000 deaths per year in the US. In comparison the mortality rate of melanoma is 15-20% and it causes 6500 deaths per year.

The signs ans sypmtoms vary amongst the three types:

There are a variety of different skin cancer symptoms. These include changes in the skin that do not heal, ulcering in the skin, discolored skin, and changes in existing moles, such as jagged edges to the mole and enlargement of the mole.

Basal cell carcinoma usually looks like a raised, smooth, pearly bump on the sun-exposed skin of the head, neck or shoulders. Sometimes small blood vessels can be seen within the tumor. Crusting and bleeding in the center of the tumor frequently develops. It is often mistaken for a sore that does not heal. This form of skin cancer is the least deadly and with proper treatment can be completely eliminated, often without scarring.

Squamous cell carcinoma is commonly a red, scaling, thickened patch on sun-exposed skin. Some are firm hard nodules and dome shaped like keratoacanthomas. Ulceration and bleeding may occur. When SCC is not treated, it may develop into a large mass. Squamous cell is the second most common skin cancer. It is dangerous, but not nearly as dangerous as a melanoma.

Most melanomas are brown to black looking lesions. Unfortunately, a few melanomas are pink, red or fleshy in color; these are called amelanotic melanomas. Warning signs that might indicate a malignant melanoma include change in size, shape, color or elevation of a mole. Other signs are the appearance of a new mole during adulthood or new pain, itching, ulceration or bleeding.

Merkel cell carcinomas are most often rapidly growing, non-tender red, purple or skin colored bumps that are not painful or itchy. They may be mistaken for a cyst or other type of cancer.

Although it is impossible to completely eliminate the possibility of skin cancer, the risk of developing such a cancer can be reduced significantly with the following steps:

• Avoid the use of tobacco products.  
• Reducing overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, especially in early years
• Avoiding sun exposure during the peak UV times during the day, typically from 10 AM to 3 PM (dependent on country) when the sun is directly over head
• Wearing protective clothing (long sleeves and hats) when outdoors
• Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation
• Reapply sun block as per the manufacturers directions
• Ensuring suitable unprotected exposure (15 minutes a day suggested maximum) to the sun to allow adequate Vitamin D formation.

Australian scientist Ian Frazer who developed a vaccine for cervical cancer, says that a vaccine effective in preventing for certain types of skin cancer has proven effective on animals and could be available within a decade. The vaccine would only be effective against Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

So even though today it is mother's Day and we should have a thought for our beloved mother. We shall also have a thought for those who were diagnosed with cancer and more specifically with skin cancer. happy Mother's Day Mom!!

P.S. Just wanted to shoot out a quick blurb to let you all know about the 20% off sale at SkinCareRx. Since May is Skin Cancer Awareness month and to celebrate SkinCareRx has created a coupon code to save 20% on sunscreen and more. The code works Store-wide minus a few exclusions.

Celebrate Skin Cancer Awareness Month and Save 20% Off Storewide at SkinCareRx.com! Use Code: SUNSMART20

Skin Care After Sun Exposure and Sunburns

We have looked at various sunscreen lotion aimed at protecting your skin while on the beach, working in your garden or simply reading a good book at the local park. We have all experienced sunburns at one time or another. Either we forgot the sunscreen application not realizing the strength of the UV index or we simply thought a quick sun exposure will facilitate and expedite a quick tanned look. One must remember that many sunburn areas of our body are the one we likely ignore all the time, such as our lips, our nose, and also our head. Yes our head, even though we have hair and also some don't, which makes it worst but our scalp is vulnerable to sun exposure. Since applying sunscreen in our hair to reach our scalp, a sun-brimmed hat is the best approach. But if you have a Yul Brynner look and and you have no hair, a sunscreen is strongly recommended.

Sunburns can have a devastated effect on your skin and the long term side effects are apt to occur if not taken care right away. Factors such as aging skin, dry skin, and even skin cancer are dangers which must be considered. Frequent sunburns are dangerous and must be properly cared. I will always remember that one trip to Miami, in my teenage years where I fell asleep by the pool and slept all afternoon in my lounge chair. When I woke up at 4:00pm; I couldn't move and the comparison to a lobster were close. Needless to say, the rest of my vacation was a nightmare, in my room shaking like it was 20 degrees Farenheit and walking like a robot. All this to say, the sun gave me eventually 2nd degree burns on my chest, legs and face. To this day, 28 years later, I remember like it was yesterday. I have noticed since my skin is more sensitive to the sun and I must be vaery careful now.

It doesn't take long get burnt by the sun in 2010. If you listen to your local radio weather news, they will tell you what the UV Index for that day and tell you how long before your skin will burn if unprotected. Always take that info with you when heading outside in the sun. It may save your life! By knowing the UV index, you will find out too what type of sunscreen you need to bnring with you.

Home care remedies as prescribed by our parents and grandparents are still good natural options. A cool bath or cool compress is one of the first option that come to my mind. If you have aloe plants and you can apply aloe extract to the compress it will enhance the soothing effect and provide nutrients to the burnt skin. Alternatively, you can also use one- half cup of ordinary baking soda into a tub full of water. Using lubricants such as Vaseline can also provide skin care. However, this type of lubricant retains heat and therefore should not be used during the first day of sunburn. Some people use benzocaine to relieve pain. However, this can cause skin irritation and may lengthen the course of healing. To ease the pain caused by sunburn, aspirin may be taken. I recommend to keep the skin as moist as much as possible. Again, aloe cream can also be beneficial. Finally do not re-expose the sunburnt area of your skin for at least 72 hours. And when exposed after that rehabilitation period, ensure you have protected it with a proper clothing apparel that will not rub against the irritated skin. And if you don't cover the area with clothing, use a strong sunscreen with an SPF of 30 as a minimum.

Be careful when heading out next time because the sun won't tell you when you're done!

Sunscreen Options Part II

In my previous post, we did look at some of the sunscreen option out there which are made for all type of activities and all type of skin. At Dermstore, the array of selection of sunscreen available is excellent. I must mention they are recommended by certified dermatologists.

Keeping in mind our little one and protecting their skin is a product offered by Dermstore called: SPF 30+ Sunscreen Lotion - Citronella Bug Blend (2.9 oz.) It's a is a non-chemical broad-spectrum sun block that is ideal for babies, children and adults with sensitive skin. This sunscreen features a blend of natural plant and flower extracts to naturally repel insects. The soothing formula even helps relieve existing bug bites. This light, elegant lotion glides on easily and lasts for hours. Even after 80 minutes in the water, this sunscreen still protects your skin and your baby's skin from the sun's harmful rays.

One other product is the Ultimate UV Defense SPF 30 (3 oz.) which is a broad-spectrum formulation that uses 7% transparent zinc oxide and 7.5% octinoxate to protect the skin against UVA and UVB damage. Featuring an elegant, moisturizing base, it promises a comfortable finish that's perfect for high-altitude climates. Free of PABA, oils and fragrances, this formulation may be used for all skin types, including sensitive. With an SPF 30, this ultimate UV defense sunscreen will minimize skin damage and while creating a comfortable moist skin

Finally, I couldn't resist talking about the Defense UV Extra Comfort Sunscreen SPF 20 (7.04 oz.) which is This soothing and softening sunscreen provides moderate protection against UVA and UVB rays while ensuring an even, gradual suntan. Perfect for use on the face and body and suitable for use by all skin types. It's soothing effect will make your skin feel soft and avoid any crispiness created by sun overexposure.

Well, have a look at these sunscreen; they each have their own benefits and advantages. Thery will be an added safeguard against sunburns created by UVA / UVB rays. Let me know what you think and feel free to comment.

Suncreen Options

As I discussed in the previous post, it's important to select the right sunscreen for your skin. It is certainly overwhelming to be in a drugstore and having to choose the right sunscreen. Again, like I mentioned previously, selecting the right for sunscreen is on your own terms but also which is the amount of activity you are doing. If you are a sun worshipper with limited activity maybe a waterproof sunscreen is not what you need. If you're someone who will be surfing, snorkeling, in a tropical country, then your options will be different.

The array of selection is vast and to narrow it down; I hope this post will make it easier for all to select the best sunscreen out there as the summer is fast approaching. My main basin of selections comes from Dermstore. DermStore.com is a health & beauty ecommerce site that was created by a board certified dermatologist who saw the need to provide accurate skin care information and qualified, healthy skin care product solutions on the web. Since its launch in 1999, DermStore has grown to offer a range of more than 300 skin care and cosmetic brands along with expert advice and esthetician recommended regimens. Because they are online only, it makes it easier to select the right sunscreen for you and actually any skin care products. Their product offering consists of brands with physician-strength formulas otherwise only available through a doctor’s or surgeon’s office, widely available quality drugstore brands, exclusive spa care lines, salon -grade brands, and difficult to find niche and specialty brands from around the world.

When looking at the various sunscreen Dermstore offers, they have a large selection of products ranging in prices and quality. With nearly 500,000 new cases of skin cancer yearly, growing awareness of sun exposure has led to advances in sun protection. The sun produces two types of ultraviolet radiation that affect the skin. UVB, also know as the burning ray, is the shorter wavelength and is more damaging. UVA, the aging ray, is longer and is damaging to the skin as well. There are two main types of sunscreen: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens, which are less irritating, work by reflecting or blocking the sun's rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb the ultraviolet rays. Most sunscreens today contain both, known as broad spectrum sunscreen. A sunscreen’s SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates how long someone can stay out in the sun without burning. A sunscreen with an SPF of 15 lets you stay out in the sun 15 times longer than without sunscreen.

Some of the products they have at an affordable price while still have an excellent quality is: One Extraordinary Sunscreen SPF 20 (2 oz.) .This non-chemical sunscreen uses natural zinc oxide to provide physical protection against UVA and UVB sun rays. Its gentle formulation is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive, making it perfect for the entire family. With regular use, this elegant formulation can help prevent premature skin aging, hyperpigmentation, collagen damage and even skin cancer.

One other product for the beach volleyball enthusiast is: Play-Day Sunscreen SPF 30 (4 oz.) This sunscreen is made for a day of play in the sunshine completes your day with the proper protection. This lightweight sunscreen from Noodle and Boo offers non-irritating UV protection that’s non-oily and water resistant. Aloe and vitamin E nourish and protect while SPF 30 prevents skin damage and painful burns. This quick-drying formula is hypoallergenic and tested by dermatologists and pediatricians.

And if you bring the children to the beach, their skin being very sensitive to sun exposure will appreciate the excellent sun protection from:  SPF 18 Moisturizing Sunscreen (4.5 fl oz.) This California Baby Sunscreen Lotion is a non-chemical broad-spectrum sun block that is ideal for babies, children and adults with sensitive skin. This sunscreen is ideal for those with sensitive skin, as it is free of common allergens. Its light lemongrass fragrance refreshes the senses This light, elegant lotion glides on easily and lasts for hours. Even after 40 minutes in the water, this sunscreen still protects your skin and your baby's skin from the sun's harmful rays. Ideal for use every day of the year to protect against UVA and UVB sun rays.

I have many more sunscreen products of high quality at a very decent price through Dermstore. DermStore is your one stop shop for all your skin care and cosmetic needs. But their vast array of sunscreen is next to none recommended by certified dermatologists.  Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen from Dermstore! and let me know how it works for you. In my next post, we will further explore other sunscreen which have a lasting effect on your skin.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

In my previous post, I talked on how the sun can seriously damage your skin and what is the best protection against sun exposure. Although clothing, sun-hats are important to sun protection, an efficient sunscreen is important is essential to protect the bare part of your body fully exposed to the UV rays.

Heading to the local drugstore and choosing a sunscreen which will work for you can be quite a task. Which one to choose? Do I go for a water resistant sunscreen? Which SPF do I need? How much do I want to pay for it. And yes, we also ensure what they smell like...

Let's look at what kind of SPF you need. First SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and we all know the higher the SPF number, the longer you can stay out of the sun without burning. How it is graded is as follow: take the common SPF 15, if you are using an SPF 15, for a person that it generally take 15 minutes to burn with an SPF 15 will allow the same person to stay in the sun 15 times longer without burning. That is the principle of the number with the acronym SPF. Of course factors such as a proper application like a certain amount prior to head out in the sun are important. Most dermatologist and health care specialist will recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 and higher. Myself, depending on the UV index of the day, I will often use a 30 or even higher. Also factors such as where you are located geographically and how you are planning to be outin the sun are also issues to consider. Most of the sunscreen found out there in drugstore or from dermatologist range from 2 to 60. It's important you choose what is best for your skin. Some people have a darker complexion and pigmentation which is also a factor. If you burn easily, you will want to go higher than an SPF 15 and consider an SPF 30 or even SPF 45. keep in mind that an SPF 50 will only provide 2% more protection than an SPF 30.

Next you want to consider what kind of sunscreen will best fit your activities for the day. Do you want a water resistant sunscreen or a waterproof one. If you are planning to be in the water such as swiiming, surfing, you will want to select a waterproof sunscreen. The difference resides in the amount of time you will be protected from the sun exposure while in the water. A waterproof sunscreen will be more effective and should normally last 60 to 90 min while a water resistant should last half that time.

Next thing you want to understand are the types of UV rays. There are two types: the UVA and UVB. Try to find a sunscreen that will cover both types of rays. It will be indicated on the tube or bottle and should be verified prior to purchasing a sunscreen. The difference in the types of rays that UVA are mostly responsible for the aging effect of the sun while the UVB are the one causing sunburns. Both can cause skin cancer and shouldn't be overlooked.

Like I said above, people will even buy sunscreen because they smell nice but that shouldn't be the dominating factor in purchasing a good sunscreen. be careful on possible allergies some may cause you. depending on the ingredients used in them, some suncreen may be allergenic to some people's skin and create rashes and itchy skin. One other part not to forget to protect is your lips. There are good sunscreen lip balm that will keep you lips moist while protecting them from the sun.

Bottom line of all this is to get a sunscreen which will protect your skin based on your activities for the day. i recommend buying two different SPF level and at least a SPF 15 as your lowest SPF level of sunscreen. I strongly disagree in buying  the oil one with an SPF 4 that makes your skin smell like a coconut tree. What you need is sun protection. Your skin will thank you when get back from the beach... In my next post, i will look at some of the efficient sunscreen out there which will make your skin soft, not oily and water resistant / water proof.  

Sun Protection and Sunscreen

As Spring is intensifying and the world seems to come back to life we are of course driven to head outside and take advantage of the nice weather and to have the sun hit our cheeks. I am totally for it as long as it is taken in moderation. You see a small dose of sun is good for your skin. But too much could be the precursor for first a bad sunburn but also skin problems  such as skin cancer if you abuse it too much. That's why a good sun protection routine is to your advantage.

What is sun protection? Sun protection is simply guarding a body from the adverse effects of sunlight. Aside from the hazards of heat, the sun poses the danger of sunburn, which can permanently damage the skin and cause skin cancer, precancerous changes in the skin, as well as premature wrinkling and signs of aging. Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun is a known risk factor for the development of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.

Sunburns can be prevented in many ways. The best ways to avoid sunburn are to limit time in the sun, especially between peak sunlight hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m, wear protective clothing, including a broad-brimmed sun hat, a shirt with sleeves that cover the arms and a long skirt or pants with long legs, use a protective sunscreen to minimize the penetration of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. If you are to wear shorts stay in the shade.

With all the discussions about how the ozone layer depleting and the sun increasing its rays on us; the sunscreen market has expanded and created a vast array of selection of sunscreen products out there. Heading to the local drug store you will see many brands and strength of protection offered. At times this can be quite confusing. Which one to use? But first know what a sunscreen is. A sunscreen is any substance or material that protects the skin from UV radiation. Sunscreens are available in the forms of topical lotion, cream, ointment, gel, or spray that can be applied to the skin; a salve or stick that can be applied to the lips, nose, and eyelids; a moistener in towelettes that can be rubbed against the skin; sunglasses that protect the eyes; certain types of sun-protection clothing; and film screen that can be affixed to the windows of a car, room, or office.

Many cream and lotion are graded by SPF. SPF is an abbreviation for sun-protection factor associated with a number such as 15, 30, or 50 that indicates the degree of sunburn protection provided by sunscreens. SPF is related to the total amount of sun exposure rather than simply the length of sun exposure. It is a common mistake to assume that the duration of effectiveness of a sunscreen can be calculated simply by multiplying the SPF by the length of time it takes for him or her to suffer a burn without sunscreen, because the amount of sun exposure a person receives is dependent upon more than just the length of time spent in the sun. The amount of sun exposure depends upon a number of factors including the length of exposure, time of day, geographic location, and weather conditions.

A common mistake by many is applying too little sunscreen, which can drastically reduce the effective SPF of the product. About 1 ounce (5-6 teaspoons) of sunscreen is recommended to cover the entire body. Further, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours when staying outdoors for a prolonged period of time. Sunscreen should also be applied at least 30 minutes before going outdoors. People with sensitive skin who burn quickly and must spend a lot of time outdoors should always apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. In a future post we will look at the good sunscreen out there in preparation for the sunny seasons. Have fun in the sun....

Revitol - An Affordable Anti-Aging Solution

Finding an anti wrinkle solution that works for you is a long and tiring process. You're faced with offerings from hundreds of companies using a variety of unproven components that promise to leave your face as smooth as it was in your youth. Most men and women want to look younger and reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles, and restore their skin to its younger days. As a result a great deal of these anti wrinkle creams and various other skin treatments have been created to solve this ever-present problem but few of these treatments are effective and safe.

As I was talking to my pharmacist and feeling his pulse on the latest and raging products on anti-aging skin care solution; he mentioned to me today a product you may want to give a try and is taking the aging population by storm. He mention to me Revitol was making some huge gains amongst the aging population because of its quality skin care product but also it was very affordable. I did read before on Revitol but was not sold on it. Again, like this blog says it is on your terms. After all it is your skin. After a lenghty discussion, what he revealed to me sure impressed me. He was saying  this revolutionary anti aging cream utilizes the most advanced ingredients available today. The active ingredients not only help to firm, hydrate, and tighten facial skin but also help to reduce the appearance of fines lines. He had me by the hook already... But what mostly amazed me is Revitol offers fast results targeting wrinkles, crows feet around the eyes, and other signs of aging. Revitol can help you appear younger with a radiant complexion.

The isolates in Revitol Complete can dramatically decrease the appearance of wrinkles and revitalize your skin in addition to increasing collagen and elastin for men and women. Many customers report that it is more effective than Retinol and Vitamin C creams in reducing the appearance of aging and the appearance of wrinkles. And Revitol is effective for men and women. More importantly the continual use of Revitol Complete can gradually rejuvenate the tone and texture of your skin to leave you long lasting effects. I said thanks to my pharmacist and gave it a try. Looking at the package they offer on the internet, I was surprised to see they had a 90 days risk free. What do I have to lose. Check it out... and let me know.

Some facts on anti aging

As the population is aging and growing in numbers annually; anti aging is becoming more and more a concern for the population at large. The process of anti aging in the 21st century is surely governed by a better education amongst the population. We are are aware of what is good for us, what is helping us in maintaining a better and youthful skin.

We all know as we age our skin changes especially the skin at the back of our hands and also our face. Facial skin often develops a dry look as people age which is a normal process.  And by spending a lot of time in the sun, it can get a leathery look. Sometimes people develop brown spots, popularly called 'liver spots'. And wrinkles begin to appear! Care for your skin at an early age will undoubtedly protect your skin but will also develop a personal discipline for years down to come in caring for your skin.

You don't have to develop or attempt to have the skin of a movie star or model but if you care for your skin, it will look youthful for a long time. It is well known now that a healthy nutrition works hand in hand with a better skin and a youthful one as well. Neutralizing free radicals from your system on a daily basis will improve your skin. Most longevity experts say that free radicals are the main cause of aging. Free radicals are oxygen molecules that have an extra electron. It results in making the molecule unstable and will seek another molecule to stabilize. When the bonding of the stable molecule occurs, it produces a protein and other function with the same similarity who will not function well. This chain reaction is negative to the body cells. This is where the anti-oxydants will help you and your skin of course.

The anti-oxydants can be found in fruits, beans, cinamon and artichokes. it is understood that these fruits and vegetables are pesticide free and fresh. You want to look at purchasing organic fruits and vegetables. If you are interested in longevity and keeping early signs of aging at bay, you are willing to pay a bit more to ensure that the food you put in your body does not have toxic chemicals and they are not genetically engineered.

As we are aging, our skin divided in three layers go through changes. For example the epidermis the outer layer of our skin will have a faster rate of having cells sloughed off and a slower rate of being replace by newer cells. We begin to lose some skin tissue. And the new cells coming to the epidermis are a bit more irregular or uneven. Result? Our skin develops small creases and wrinkles!

Stay tuned for a future post where we will continue to look at our different layer of skin and what happens to our skin cells we are aging. Also feel free to post your feedback and comments or even experiences. Also if you have questions feel free to ask. I'll be glad to help.

Naturally Skinsational Ebook - A Natural Anti Aging Solution

As I was doing multiple research in the past few days and attempting to go the natural way and searching what's out there. I stumbled upon a great innovative but yet fun way to preserve your skin and combat the anti aging process. What makes it fun is that it is a receipe book. Yes - a receipe book. Fascinating and intriguing this ebook is a great solution in going the natural way in preserving your skin. The ebook called "Naturally Skinsational" provides a wonderful selection of homemade natural skin care recipes for facial treatments that have been formulated especially for the rejuvenating needs of aging skin with simple, common ingredients right from the kitchen.


Written by Sue Dolan, M.Ed., Sue is a researcher and instructor on anti-aging skin care and facial rejuvenation for the Skin Care Resource Center and an expert author on aging skin concerns. "Naturally Skinsational" revolutionizes facial rejuvenation representing the next generation of natural skin care treatments which are found right in any kitchen cupboard. This Recipe eBook is literally overflowing with quick and easy natural skin care recipes formulated specifically to address aging skin concerns.

Take a quick peek: Click

Naturally Skinsational provides consumers with a wonderful alternative to effectively treat the needs of their aging skin. Consumers now have a choice. They can either stand forlornly in front of expensive department store displays of anti-aging skin care products not knowing which one will actually have an impact in addressing their facial rejuvenation desires or they can march right into their own kitchen to whip together a wonderfully fresh anti-aging skin care treatment. Since natural skin care and techniques dates back to ancient times it is like going back to our roots.

The Skin Care e-Learning and Resource Center’s Natural Skin Care Recipes site first introduced homemade skin care recipes that focused on the rejuvenating properties of natural ingredients. By unlocking the mystery of herbal attributes, Naturally Skinsational combines the rejuvenating properties of natural ingredients together into recipes that effectively treat a range of aging skin care issues.

The e-book is also full of fascinating “Skinsational Tips” along with the expansive array of over 150 rejuvenating skin care recipes that include masks, peels, toners, moisturizers, spritzers, steams, under eye treatments and even special occasion facial treatments that feature enticing recipes such as “The Love Scrub” or “Boo Berry Peel”.

The e-book reaches it finale with a comprehensive glossary on the rejuvenating attributes of an extensive listing of natural ingredients. The "Naturally Skinsational" Recipe eBook is truly an exceptional and absolutely enjoyable, from beginning to end, natural skin care recipe ebook. Start whipping up your own rejuvenating recipes today. Feel free to send me your comments / feedback.

Basic Skin Care Treatment

Skin care products come in many shapes or forms and even colours and texture. But the question remain: what are the best skin care treatment out there?? What could we give our skin this younger, healthy look? Many consumers - us - will directly go to the pharmacy, health and beauty shop or the internet of course to find THE winning formula. Many cleansers, toners, moisturisers, anti-aging cream, vitamins, natural products are out there. Confusion sets in... Can't blame you, we've all been there and we are still searching. People will go as far as obtaining a chemical peel, micro dermabrasion or even something as drastic as cosmetic surgery. People think of skin care as something you do to the surface of your skin. In some fashion, yes it is; but it must start from the inside and use the natural element around you.

Thinking of the elements around you which will contribute to a beautiful skin is the key to a good start. You are giving yourself the optimum chance of having a complexion that is youthful, radiant and blemish free.

So how can we improve our chances on the inside in order to have a radiant healthy skin on the outside?

Let's start with antioxidants and vitamins from various fruits and vegetables. We all heard our parents say eat your vegetables. The truth is: they were right. Antioxidants located in blueberries, apples, plums, cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, plums, cranberries, potatoes, beans, nuts and pulses, pumpkins, tomatoes, artichokes and leafy green vegetables will enhance the production of antioxidants in your body. So as our parents said: "Eat your vegetables!!!" and ensure you include them in your daily diet.

How can antioxidants help your skin? The antioxidants will persevere in preventing damage to your skin as they will contribute in your body to rid itself of free radicals. The fact we are all exposed to those free radicals whether it is internal and external, it remains we are exposed to them and so is our skin, of course. The antioxydants will act as free radical scavengers and their role to will be to sweep these harmful chemicals and neutralizing them. Looking at vitamins, we all know certain vitamins are essential to our health and the functionning or our body. Skin care vitamins such as: vitamins A, C and E as well as being nutrients, act as

antioxidants and will contribute your skin to repair itself. This will help your skin keeping its younger look.

Bottom line is: not enough vitamins and antioxidants will affect your skin.

Next natural element to look at is water. Drinking water is essential to the body but water will act as a cleanser. We have heard in the past that drinking eight glass of water a day is the normal intake for our body. But drinking plenty of water will have its advantages in your skin care. Drinking plenty of water will flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated. And if your skin is hydrated it will stay healthy and blemish free.


One other factor we can all do better at is to exercise. Exercising two to three times a week for a period of twenty to thirty minutes at our own pace of course without getting injured or exhausted will enable to get the blood pumping within your body which in turn will bring essential nutrient to your skin. In addition as mentionned earlier exercising will often make us sweat which again flush out those toxins stated above.

Proper rest and sleep is also a basic prevention measure to have a better skin. The well known say: "Getting Your Beauty Sleep" is true and relevant to having a proper skin. We have all looked at ourselves in the mirror when we get up after a short night of sleep due to work or too much partying. What we look like is revealing. Our eyes are all puffy, our skin is often pale, we have wrinkles we didn't know about the night before. Sleep helps in healing and repairing, different part of our body and skin is of course part of that. depending of your age, a normal sleeping night is usually eight hours.

Protection from the sun is always a good practice. We all want to look good and have the tan to go with it. In today's climate the sun as much as it provides vitamins to your skin can also be detrimental if too much is absorbed. Sun burns and excessive exposure is one of the most damaging tool to your skin especially if you are a beach worshipper or someone working outside. Sun exposure to your skin healthy but absorbed in small doses. Having the right protection whether through a proper SPF cream or proper clothing will preserve your skin for a long time. The fear of skin cancer through long solar exposure shall be taken also into account but will be discussed in a future post.

In the meantime, eat well, exercise regularly, sleep well and enjoy the sun as Spring is upon us.

The Right Products For Your Skin

In this day and age where we are faced with an aging population, many persons are faced with an older skin and of course we look older. We look older our self esteem goes down hill and to many we feel somewhat inadequate. Why??? Our look is depleting, degenerating.... simple as that. One can assume we are also faced with many obstacles in the society which will cause our skin to have the "nasty witch" look if we don't take care of it soon enough

Main causes for bad skin are:


sun;
pollution;
stress;
nutrition;
lifestyle; and
use of the wrong products

There are other factors I am sure but the main listed above are the main culprits for our skin care to go down the drain. can we reverse the process of aging? Certainly not! But we can all help in ourselves find a way through by working on the factors listed above and make our skin much better, younger.


You can compare your skin to a young child. It needs nurturing. One thing to remember about your skin is that they are living cells. They need to be fed, protected, covered from Mother Nature's bad mood and exaggeration.
Many skin products exist from aging skin care to organic skin care to beauty skin care and the obvious million dollar question you ask yourself is: Where to start?. . . "What is my budget also on skin products?" may also be another question you may find yourself asking. The important is skin care product that it is right for you - the consumer and to make sure you select what is right for you and of course most of all your skin. Like many of you, I was faced with the same question: where to start??? How much money will I spend? Will they work??? Those are obvious questions and you have the right to ask yourself those questions. The thing to remember which is key is: it is your skin, your appearance that matters.

I did my research in magazines, pharmacies, beauty salons, the web, you name it. I came across some good products and some not so good products. Products featured in **** left me skeptical at first. Why??? Not the same exposure like some of the creams out there widely advertised, published in fancy magazine. Maybe the testimonials from some of the companies by shiny stars and models are doing the trick for those companies. But what **** a mainstay in the fields of health and skin care products did is that I found products which helped my skin but also did not drain my bank account either. Check it out at: (link).

I like some of the new products they have out. They range from cleansing cream and facial care which can be applied night or day. Products for a dry skin particularly in winter time are also available. You may have read off the four ways to care for your skin which are: cleanse, moisturize & exfoliate and protect your skin. We will look at some of the ways to do it and and the product which may best suit your skin on an affordable budget on a future post. In the meantime start your research here at