on 10:33 PM

Skin care is not a topic of recent times; it has been in practice since ancient times, when herbal skin care was probably the only way to take care of skin. However, skin care has transformed in a big way. Herbal skin care routines have been replaced by synthetic/chemical-based skin care routines. The herbal skin care recipes which once used to be common place are not so popular today (and even unknown to a large population). This transformation from herbal skin care to synthetic, can probably be attributed to two things ? our laziness (or just the fast pace of lives) and the commercialisation of skin care. Even herbal skin care products have been commercialised. These commercial herbal skin care products have to be mixed with preservatives in order to increase their shelf-life, hence making them less effective than the fresh ones made at home. However, it seems that things are changing fast and more people are now opting for natural and herbal skin care routines. But still, none want to make them at home and hence the commercial market of herbal skin care products is on the rise.

So what are these herbs or herbal skin care mechanisms?

Aloe vera, which is an extract from Aloe plant, is one of the best examples of herbal skin care product. Freshly extracted aloe vera is a natural hydrant that helps in soothing skin. It also helps in healing cuts and treating sun burns.

A number of herbs are known to possess cleansing properties. Dandelion, chamomile, lime flowers and rosemary herbs, are a few examples of such cleansers. Their herbal skin care properties get invoked when they are combined with other herbs like tea.

Antiseptics are another important part of Herbal skin care. Lavender, marigold, thyme and fennel are good examples of herbs that are known to possess antiseptic properties. Lavender water and rose water also form good toners.

Tea plays an important part in herbal skin care. Tea extracts are used for treatment of skin that has been damaged by UV radiation.

Oils prepared from herbal extracts present another means of herbal skin care. Tea tree oil, Lavender oil, borage oil and primrose oil are some popular oils used in herbal skin care. Some fruit oils (e.g. extracts from fruits like banana, apple and melon) find use in shower gels (as a hydrating mix)

Homeopathic treatments and aromatherapies also come under the umbrella of herbal skin care remedies.

Herbal skin care is good not only for the routine nourishing of skin but also for treatment of skin disorders like eczema and psorasis. Most herbal skin care products don?t have any side effects (the most important reason for preferring them over synthetic products) Moreover, herbal skin care products can be easily made at home, hence making them even more attractive. So, herbal skin care is the way to go. However, this does not mean that you totally discard the synthetic products. Some people go to the extent of debating with their dermatologist, if he/she suggests a synthetic product. You should accept the fact that some skin orders might need usage of clinically proven non-herbal skin care products.

Ellen for http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com. Find lots of makeup and beauty tips here with many useful articles on skin care. Also learn how to get rid of dark circles under eyes.

on 7:42 PM

There are many conditions that happen to individuals, explained and unexplained. In hypertrichosis, you will find a wide range of probably answers but not all of them will be the answers you are looking for. The best relief from conditions like these is to seek the advice of your doctor.

Hypertrichosis is a medical condition that causes excessive growth of hair in areas where hair does not normally grow. It may be present over the entire body, or you could have it in only one or more areas. Some individuals will be born with the condition and others will develop it later on in life.

Congenital Hypertrichosis is very rare. In fact, it is so rare that there have been only 50 verified cases since the Middle Ages. It occurs because of a flaw during pregnancy. A fetus is covered with lanugo which is a very fine layer of hair that falls off during the eighth month. In these cases, it does not fall off but continues to grow. In a serve case known as Congenital Hypertrichosis Terminalis, the hair becomes colored as well and remains there after birth.

Another variation of Congenital Hypertrichosis is called Naevoid Hypertrichosis. Here, the individuals will have excessive hair growth in only one area of the body.

Acquired Hypertrichosis

Acquired Hypertrichosis occurs after birth at any point. The symptoms may include unpigmented vellus hair or pigmented terminal hair. The excessive hair may cover the entire body, or it could be localized to one area.

What Causes It: Hypertrichosis?

Although there are no for sure answers to that question, many believe the condition to be a genetic disorder. It can be considered inherited or has been known to just happen due to the mutation of genes. Some are cancer related which occurs after individuals have cancer. Some individuals believe that it can be caused by drugs or metabolic disorders as well.

Treatments For Hypertrichosis

The best treatments available include:

Shaving regularly

Depilatories which are hair removal creams can also be used as long as the skin is free from cuts or open sores. Check for allergic reactions before use.

Bleaching products can help to lessen the look of these hairs but make sure to check for chemical reactions.

Electrolysis and laser hair removal techniques may also be helpful. Here, a laser will actually kill the follicle stopping it from being able to grow hair. Some at home kids are effective, but professional service is the best.

Hypertrichosis is a condition that really does not have a cure so to speak. Hair removal techniques can help though. Although the best treatments are those that are the most costly, they are likely to provide the most satisfaction here.

As a beauty consultant Nicola is always evaluating new products. Visit her site at http://www.epilator.info for resources, views and information about hair removal.

Copyright Epilator.info. All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

on 3:59 PM

Skin types are unique and react in different ways to weather, environment, and creams and/or lotions. In order to keep skin healthy and youthful in appearance it is essential to know your skin type and how to care for it.

Most skin care specialists will advise to apply moisturizers all over the body to nourish the skin. Top of the list in skin care is sun protection to prevent damage to the delicate skin structure. A few other simple steps will help you care for your particular skin type.

Normal Skin: Use a rich cream or lotion to moisturise the skin. Be sure to apply the moisturizer to the neck and d?collet?. Don?t forget to moisturize the elbows and knees. It?s best to apply moisturizers after bathing while the skin is still moist for better absorption.

Oily Skin: There are already plenty of natural oils in this skin type, so use a light moisturizer. A body mist spray is also good for oily skin, as it will sit gently on the skin, without stimulating the glands that product body oils. To avoid breakouts it is important to keep pores from becoming clogged.

Combination Skin: This type of skin usually refers to just the face. The neck however, should not be forgotten. The neck area tends to dry if you have this type of skin. A light moisturizer that contains sunscreen should be used in order to combat dryness. At night a richer cream will nourish the skin as you sleep, keeping it smooth, supple and youthful.

Dry Skin: A deep penetrating cream will nourish this type of skin. Try an oil-based lotion as an alternative; it will leave the skin silky and smooth. Dry skin is often aggravated by air conditioning, wind and sun. Always use extra moisturizers to keep hydrated when exposed to these elements.

Sensitive Skin: This type of skin often needs special attention. Formulated and medicated creams can be obtained to address specific individual needs. A visit to a professional will help evaluate this type of skin and assist in designing a skin care regime that addresses each particular case.

?Keep your skin protected from the sun at all times.
?Drink plenty of water.
?Get lots of sleep.
?Do not rub the skin - always pat skin dry with a soft towel.
?Consult your aesthetician or dermatologist they can advise you on solutions to most problem skin conditions.

Spas in Canada ? Copyright 2005

Angie Kocsi is co-founder of Spas in Canada. After many years enjoying the great spas in Europe and drawing upon her experience and knowledge of the corporate world; along with a successful career in Public Relations and International Marketing Spas in Canada was created.
For more information contact the spa team by email: spas@spasincanada.ca

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