All You Need To Know About Zits

Zits are a form of acne that affects the skin especially the face. Obviously, the skin contributes greatly to the beauty of a person. When it is characterized by a larger number of zit spots, you know what it means. It gives the skin a rough and uneven complexion that totally alters the general beauty. When you were a teenager, occurrence of zits is very common and we are often promised that it will disappear at adult age. However, this sometimes never comes true. Below is most of what you need to know about zits

a) Comparison between zits and pimples

Both zits and pimples are forms of acne hence; understanding what is acne, is essential. It is a condition that results from inflammation of sebaceous glands. Zits are caused by excess fats clogged on the skin and melanin producing glands. It is characterized by spots filled with pus that causes too much pain and scaring. On the other hand, pimples are caused by blocking of the skin pores. It is characterized by non-painful raised spots that are sometimes red which can cause scaring on the skin. Both zits and pimples are skin conditions that equally affect the beauty of the skin. All victims of the two conditions are constantly struggling to recover for the sake of their beauty.

b) Causes of zits

When there are dead cells, the skin has a mechanism that helps in shedding them off. However, in the process of shedding, the dead cells are sometimes left on the skin pores resulting to blocking. Sebaceous gland continuously produces sebum which accumulates on the skin pores resulting to more blocking. Blocked sebum contains bacteria referred to as Propionibacterium. This bacterium feeds on sebum and secretes substances that cause inflammation and formation of spots on the affected area. These spots are the famous zits.

Some common triggers of blocking are poor skin care such as sleeping with makeup, poor washing and improper use of makeup. Some other common causes of acne that are the possible causes of zits include fluctuation of hormones. This is a common cause of acne among the teenagers, especially girls. They are prone to the fluctuation of hormones during menstruation.

c) Remedies of zits
 
There are several acne remedies that have been proven to work. Since zits are forms of acne, the general treatment for acne below plays a role in overcoming the condition; 

1. Remove makeup before going to bed

Sometimes we can be very exhausted such that we easily fall into the temptation of sleeping with makeup. Overnight makeup clogs the skin pores resulting to accumulation of fats which in turn cause appearance of zits. Use a makeup remover to get rid of all the makeup before you move to the bedroom.

2. Wash your face properly

Washing your face regularly is probably the advice that you are very familiar with. Unfortunately, you might be washing your face on regular basis but still leaving some dirt on it that blocks the pores. Washing properly is what you should consider. Just don’t over wash to avoid further damage. Think of a mild cleanser that is gentle on your skin. Avoid soap on your face by all means.

3. Consider exfoliation

Exfoliation is a sure way of ensuring the pores are kept open. It is the removal of the outer layer of the skin containing grease and dead cells. This is a thorough method that removes most of the dead cells including those that are stuck on the skin pores. Consider chemical exfoliation rather than mechanical. You should also avoid using complex chemicals that can cause over-exfoliation. Don’t exfoliate more often as your skin may become very sensitive and prone to infections.

4. Use chamomile

As mentioned before, zits are characterized by inflammation. Chamomile is a great substance that helps in reducing inflammation. Prepare chamomile paste using water then apply it on the affected area. Alternatively, boil chamomile in water and wipe the affected area with the resultant liquid using a cotton wool. Repeat these procedure everyday and with time, zits will be no more.

5. Aloe Vera Treatment

Aloe Vera is a common herb that is known for its effectiveness in the beauty industry. It is great in relieving inflammation and reducing scaring. Extract Aloe Vera gel and apply on the affected area. Continuous application of this substance enhances its effectiveness in treating zits and acne.

Conclusion

Most people may have heard about pimples but not zits. They often mistake pimple for zits but with the above comparison, the difference is now clear. The remedies of both skin conditions are the same since the common way of overcoming both is keeping the skin pores open. The elaborated remedies can help you overcome any form of acne. Slight change in the skin care methods is effective in overcoming the conditions. Acne resulting from hormonal imbalance is hard to control but disappears when balance is achieved.

References:

https://www.thebeautyinsiders.com/category/skin-care

https://www.glozine.com/lifestyle/health/acne-types-causes-treatment.html

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How To Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage Without Sunscreen?

We all like a good bask in the sun. Think about how soothing it is just to lie on that beach and feel the sun rays penetrate your skin…oh! How you yearn for a little sun shine whenever winter sets is the sun is just heavenly, right?

Now, let me burst your bubble.  The sun may be very soothing; a source of vitamin D and life, but it also has its downsides. What you may not know is that the same sun that takes to cloud nine may also bring forth major troubles through skin discoloration and even skin cancer.

How?

This is because the sun emits UV rays that penetrate the skin and destroy your DNA. This leaves you with brown patches that are painful to the touch. You may have realized that your skin looks a bit darker and irritated after being outdoors for too long. Now, that is what is referred to as sunburn. Even though this damage may be just mild and will go away in no time at all, you may be increasing your chances of acquiring skin cancer later in your life. Did you know that skin cancer is one of the leading cancers in the USA?

This should tell you that sun damage is not a bull to joke with: It is important that you always protect your skin. This is why dermatologists advocate for the must apply sunscreen rule. It is because sunscreen will help breakdown the harmful rays and in the process prevent their penetration into your skin.  This will the long run keep you miles away from sunburns.

However, sunscreen is not the only form of sun protection. Think about it this way, what if you have to go out and your sunscreen is finished? Does it mean you have to brave the rays?

Again, sunscreen wears out in little time and hence constant reapplication is necessary if it is to be trusted as a foolproof sun protection method. The bottom line of this banter is that you need alternative methods away from the ever so glorified sunscreen. This discourse will take you through other strategies you can use to avert sun damage. They will include:

1. A proper diet

According to research, some foods have the ability to reduce your skin’s sensitivity to the sun while others can strengthen the skin to deal with any sun damage. These are usually foods that have antioxidant capabilities.  Examples include carrots, broccoli, water melons, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and berries among others. Now, the antioxidants in these foods will help protect the skin from the free radicals coming from the sun rays by neutralizing the radicals. Tomatoes where for instance confirmed to have this capability when a study done on 20 people showed that those who regularly took tomato paste were more resistant to sun damage than their counterparts who never used it. In essence, what we are trying to put across is that you can avert sun burns through a diet rich in foods that contain antioxidants as they will come in handy in the fight against sun damage.

2. Dress appropriately

Another way of keeping the UV rays at bay is through proper clothing.  There are clothes specifically made for sun protection.  Some of these clothes even have an SPF of 30 (which is what sunscreens offer by the way). This means that when you wear these clothes, you will have increased your sun tolerance to over 30 times. But you can also avert this damage through normal clothes. For instance, throwing on a scarf or a hat as you grace that wedding garden may really help you. In addition, you can purchase sunglasses that will not only make you look trendy but will also help keep your eyes safe. Therefore, if you have to spend time outdoors, it is important that you put on clothes that will cover most of your skin in order to prevent sunburns.

3. Keep tabs on the time
 
The sun is the most available and most effective source of vitamin D. That you must have heard over a million times. However, this should not be an excuse for you to keep basking in the sun at whatever time. This is because it is not always that the sun emits these beneficial rays. Research has shown that the sun between 10 am and sometime around 3 pm is usually loaded with the harmful UV rays and hence should be avoided. This knowledge will help you know when not to go outdoors and hence help you avoid sun damage.

Conclusion

The sun has been branded as one of the leading causes of skin damage and by extension skin cancer. This has led to massive sensitization on the need to protect our skins from the sun. It is this call that has highly popularized sunscreen to the extent that you may think it is the only form of sun protection. However, through the above discussion it is clear that there are other strategies that you can employ to keep still your skin protected even when sunscreen becomes costly, it wears out or is finished.

References:

https://www.thebeautyinsiders.com/category/skin-care

http://www.examiner.com/article/can-sunscreen-avoid-aging-your-skin-1

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5 Weird Things People Use To Hide Their Dark Circles

If you suffer from those unwanted dark areas beneath and near the eyes, don't feel alone.  Millions suffer from this dreaded condition that makes people look tired and fatiqued or just plain exhausted. While there are some traditional ways you can 'treat' this condition, below is a compilation of 5 of the weirdest things people use for these dark circles.  While some of these remedies may give some relief, read on to see if you find your favorite. Just remember that these are simply suggestions for some degree of possible temporary relief.  Seeking the advice of a health care advisor should always be a consideration.

5 Things and Counting

So, let's get started with the top 5 weird things for those dark circles under the eye:

1. Coffee or caffeine creams – It seems that this remedy has a rather good following noting that while even if it doesn't work, perhaps the aroma itself is worth the effort.  However, while this may seem somewhat weird to many, caffeine or coffee, when applied topically constricts the blood vessels to the applied area, thus reduces the amount of blood pooling that can cause the dark circles.  Pretty cool, huh?  So, now you know what to do with that leftover coffee from last night, right?  Otherwise, there are several actual manufacturers of eye creams that contain coffee and/or caffeine.

2. Then there are tea bags – Everyone knows that some teas have wonderful nutritious and healthy properties, laying teabags on your eyes to reduce dark circles seems somewhat ludicrous.  But apparently, brewing your couple of cups of tea in the morning and chilling the teabag can help the condition.  It is recommended that only black tea is used (probably for the caffeine) and the bags must be seriously chilled before applying to the area under the eyes.

3. Cold spoons -  Yep.  That's right.  Cold spoons. Using the theory that cold compresses laid underneath the eyes with constrict the blood vessels and reduce dark circles.  Take the spoons and keep in the refrigerator until you are ready to use.  Don't use directly from a freezer as burning of the gentle skin under the eye may occur.

4. Potatoes! - Well, potatoes have eyes don't they?  But actually, rumor is that this has nothing to do with it.  The potatoes, like the tea bags and the spoons, should be cold prior to laying on the eyes.  This is using the same theory as the cucumber treatment, but many think the potato juices also have therapeutic properties.

5. How about red lipstick? - It would seem that while most dark circle sufferers utilize neutral concealers for the under-the-eye application, but more recently the use of red or orange-red lipstick seems to be of fashion. Application of the lipstick is done with a brush, then it is covered with your favorite foundation.  Who knows?  It might work for a temporary fix.

With very little effort, finding all sorts of temporary remedies for those pesky dark circles is easy, but what about long term? 

That said, what's next?

As with most conditions, there is usually a reason. This holds true for dark circles under the eye. While they may only be the result of lack of sleep or fatigue, persistent dark circles may be the sign of a more serious condition, so seeking the advice of a health professional may be advisable. 

Some of the most common reasons for these dark circles may be:

Allergies – Probably one of the most common reasons.  The use of antihistamines may provide some relief.

Dermatitis – Often rubbing or scratching of the eyes can worsen the problem, so medical advice is advisable for this condition.

Lack of sleep or rest – We all live on the edge today, not getting the full, restful sleep we need.  Removing all distractors at night would be advisable for a more restful sleep.  If you suffer from sleep apnea, seek medical advise as well.

Aging – We are all doing it.  With the aging skin process, changes occur in the the thickness and elasticity of our skin.

Lifestyle – Like lack of sleep, changes to our lifestyle can result in that overtired look.  Staying up long hours, working long hours, not eating properly, over-indulging in drink, smoking and the use of drugs can all be factors that result in depth of darkness under the eye.

Finally, genetics – The one true thing you can't change.

Our eyes and skin say a lot about us.  When they look overtired and fatigued, even though we may not feel that way, that is the impression we are giving others.  Making changes, especially with our lifestyles, may not only prove a relief to the dark under the eye problem, but our overall life and outlook.  Be good to yourself.  Listen to your body and see what is good.

References:

https://www.thebeautyinsiders.com/category/skin-care

http://www.365daysofhealthandfitness.com/2016/01/erase-your-fine-lines-and-wrinkles-with.html

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Do Skin Brighteners Really Cure Dull Complexion?

If there is one factor that runs across all people of the world, their skin color notwithstanding, then it is the desire for a flawless and radiant skin. Really, can you point out one person worth his/her salt that does not care about how his/her face looks, especially her face?

This is why an uncountable number of remedies to brighten skin have cropped out. Wherever your turn, whether to the natural or chemical side, you will find a ready remedy more so if you are suffering from a dull complexion.

Dull complexion

Now, you will be said to be having a dull complexion when your skin stops being as radiant as it used to be and is also a bit darker. This can be as result of factors such as age, excessive exposure to the sun among other causes. What happens is that the skin stops being able to moisturize itself as well as remove its dead skin cells. This leaves it with a layer of darkened skin and intense dryness that fully scraps off its former glow.

Remedies to the dull complexion

There are a number of ways to deal with this menace. However, at this point you will only delve into the use of skin brightener. And at a deeper level, we want to unravel whether it is possible to cure this disorder with skin brighteners. You know skin brighteners right? No?

Well a skin brightener is a product that will help steer off all that discoloration and gloominess from the skin by increasing blood flow to the skin, reducing skin pigmentation and removing the dead skin cells that maybe trapped in your skin. In essence if applied properly, these products will be able to get rid of your dullness in a whisper. I mean, what will remain of the dull complexion will remain if the darkened parts are removed and your blood flow is improved? The answer is none. This is because once all the spots are cleared, you will be able to boast of a finer skin tone and a more radiant one hence no dullness will be recorded. Now, the fact that brighteners can do this for you means that they can actually cure dull complexion.

Who can use them?

The best part is that these products can be used by people of all skin colors: from the whites to the blacks. The difference only lies in the fact that those with a darker shade will probably need a stronger brightener than their light skinned counterparts due to the great melanin levels. In addition, some of these products may contain ingredients like hydroquinone which can react in some people who are allergic to it. This is why experts insist on the importance of consulting a dermatologist before you start using any one of these products. But the bottom line is that if you use the best skin brighteners, you will be able to rid your skin off its uneven tone and spots in a record of one month.

Tips for use

These products may sound heavenly and very easy to use, but their use demands more than just mere application. After using the products and finally leaping amazing benefits, it is important to follow their application with some procedures in order to prevent the dullness from recurring. You can do so by:

1. Applying sunscreen consistently

As much as these products are self-proclaimed and people approved discoloration and dullness scrappers, their effects can be easily reversed by extended exposure to the sun. The sun is known for its harmful UV rays that hit the skin and cause darkening. These rays are usually filtered out by melanin, a pigment found in the skin. It is the abundance of this pigment in your skin that will determine how much skin damage you incur and also the darkness of your skin. More melanin in the skin will mean lesser sun damage but an overall darker shade. However, when you apply a skin brightener, you drastically reduce your melanin levels thus you not only make your skin lighter but also more exposed to sun damage. This is why you should always apply sunscreen whenever you go outdoors in order to ensure your skin is still protected from the harmful UV rays that can cause skin darkening in an instant.

Conclusion

Almost everybody in the world desires to have a flawless and spotless skin. However, this does not come easy especially with the sun always shinning, age always roaming at a distance and environmental factors always at waiting to pounce. You however need not worry too much as you can always find solace in skin brighteners. These products will actually cure your dull complexion in an instance although they will demand for consistent application of sunscreen in order to avert any further skin discoloration.

References:

https://www.thebeautyinsiders.com/category/natural-skin-brightener

http://www.cafemom.com/journals/read/1707189/Things_To_Keep_In_Mind_Before_Choosing_A_Best_Skin_Brightner_For_You

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Solvaderm’s Guide to Sexy Skin at Any Age

With an unusually large cohort of ladies over 60 in contention for nominations leading up the Oscars, there is a good chance that one or two of them will make it onto the red carpet come February. Blythe Danner in I'll See You In My Dreams, Helen Mirren in both The Woman in Gold and Trumbo, Lily Tomlin in Grandma, Charlotte Rampling in 45 Years and Jane Fonda in the appropriately titled Youth all hope to make it up to the podium in the next few months. No doubt these women are long-term proponents of good skin care regimes and while they can probably afford to invest in more pampering treatments than the rest of us, they still manage to convey that attitude plays a big part in looking beautiful at any age. That said, there are a couple of areas of skincare that need to be focused on as we get older and Solvaderm recommend the following to our red carpet belles:

Décolletage

Sometimes known as the decollate, this area refers to the skin around the upper part of the body comprising the neck, shoulders, upper back and cleavage. Usually on prominent display in evening gowns, it is an area that red carpet glamazons of any age needs to pay attention to. While for younger women, issues with this area tend to relate to blocked pores leading to pimples and sometimes breakouts, for older women, the delicate skin on the neck and cleavage can show signs of hyperpigmentation and creping due to sun damage. Treatment over time with peels and exfoliants that contain glycolic acid and other AHA’s can help to reduce pigmentation issues although it is wise to get these done at least a few weeks in advance of any big day to ensure any irritation is gone. Toning and moisturizing with a product like Revivatone from Solvaderm which is specially formulated to treat this area can also help. Containing peptides to promote skin renewal and healing along with hyaluronic acid and squalane to add moisture it restores smoothness and plumps out the skin.

Hands

These are often a giveaway area when it comes to telling a woman’s age and with the mani cam now a regular fixture on the red carpet, making sure their hands look their best is all part of the preparation for these ladies. While there are many excellent hand creams on the market, a handy tip is to rub the back of the hands with the excess cream or serum while applying it to the face. While we’re sure our potential award winners can afford a top manicure as part of their preparations, there’s no harm in anyone regularly rubbing an intense rejuvenating serum such as Stemnucell or ACE Ferulic into the hands to give them a boost, particularly at night when the skin’s cells renew themselves during deep sleep. Alternatively Solvaderm suggest a style statement like Amal Clooney at last year’s Golden Globes, where a pair of arm length gloves provide instant glamour and an automatic pass for the mani cam!

References:

https://www.consumerhealthdigest.com/skin-care/how-to-get-glowing-skin.html

https://www.thebeautyinsiders.com/get-flawless-skin-without-dark-skin-patches.html

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