10 Steps to get a Healthier and More Beautiful Skin

Nothing is more beautiful than a healthy glow! Try these simple tips to make sure your natural beauty shines through.



A Healthy Diet Means Healthy Beauty

We can get as creative as we like with our makeup, but there's one thing it can never bring us: the glow of good health. A healthy dietkeeps your body in tip-top shape — and that means your skin, hair, and nails too! Diets rich in a variety of vitamins and nutrients have plenty of beauty benefits. Hair is about 90 percent protein, so to promote hair growth, try a diet rich in lean proteins. To slow the signs of aging, be sure to get plenty of vitamins C and E. And don't forget about water! Staying hydrated is vital to maintaining a healthy glow. It can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and make skin look plump and healthy.

Not used to drinking up? Here are some simple tips for adding more water to your day:
Set a goal. Tell yourself you can't have that soda/Frappuccino/whatever your liquid guilty pleasure is until you reach your water-intake goal. Aim for at least 4 cups of water a day.
Mix it up. Add fruit, sugar-free drink mix, or ice cubes made from fruit juice to your glass for a refreshing flavor.
Tea time. Instead of your afternoon cup of coffee, try tea. It's more hydrating but still contains caffeine if you're looking for a little boost.

Reveal Healthy Hands

Your hands are one accessory you expose to the world daily, so why not dress them up, show them some love, and share something beautiful! But no cute, colorful polish can hide peeling, poorly cared for cuticles. "Cuticle oil is a miracle in a bottle," says Elle, a New York City–based celebrity manicurist. "It's key to softening up cuticles right away and making you feel put together — especially in those months when your skin is dry." Cuticle oil is also great for fighting daily nail aggressors like hand washing, being in the pool, and salt water.

Another great backup for cuticle oil is olive oil. That's right, the kind you'd find in your kitchen cupboard. Elle describes it as "quick and amazing." Read more nail care advice from Elle in our Essential Nail Care Kit.

Sunless Tanning Basics

While sunless tanners are a great way to keep a glow year-round, many of us have experienced the same horrible outcome: streaks, splotches, and orangy tones! Fear no more. According to Dr. Jessica Wu, dermatologist and beauty expert, there is a surprisingly simple fix to these sunless tanning disasters. The key to an even sunless tan is exfoliation, she says. Dead skin cells pick up more of the darkening ingredients of self-tanning products, which is why elbows, knees, and other areas of dry skin get darker than the rest of you, creating streaks and spots. Dr. Wu recommends that you begin exfoliating about a week before you plan to apply self-tanner, paying special attention to dry patches. And of course, don't forget to give any tanning product a test run before the day of a special event!




Get Your Beauty Sleep

There's a reason why you feel so good when you're well rested — it's good for your body! When you give your body the recommended eight hours of sleep a night, you're giving it the rest it needs to repair and build muscles and cells. Research shows that sleep deprivation is also directly related to skin rashes such as eczema, obesity and weight gain, and of course, those bags under your eyes you've been concealing with makeup. Here are a few tips to help you wind down after a long day, so you can start the next one fresh-faced and fabulous:
Drink up. Enjoy a cup of caffeine-free herbal tea.
Shut down. Turn off the distractions — that means the TV and Facebook!
Start a routine. Get into a bedtime routine that will help your body ease into sleep. Perhaps read for an hour or meditate for a few minutes just before bed. Waking up and going to bed at the same time every day also helps put your body into a steady sleep rhythm.
Think ahead. Make preparations for the next day so there will be nothing weighing on your mind when you should be snoozing.

Have a Fresh Face

Let's be real: Sweat happens. And when it does, it makes your makeup run and clogs your pores. So your best bet is to keep the layers of products on your face to a minimum. Instead of wearing sunscreen, moisturizer, and foundation, look for a tinted moisturizer with SPF. (Remember: No matter what the temperature is outside, your face is still exposed and at risk for sun damage.) Find a good waterproof mascara, and instead of lipstick, try a lip stain — not only is it lighter, it'll also last all day! And most important, be sure to wash your face before bed and before applying makeup. Starting with a fresh palette is essential!

Protect Your Hair

Your hair may seem durable and strong — after all, it does withstand the constant abuse of brushing, pulling, heating, cooling, and chemicals — but nourishing and protecting your hair is important to keep it healthy and shiny. To counteract all this hair abuse, here are some tips to ensure optimal hair health:
Condition and moisturize. Heated hair tools like blow-dryers and straighteners can leave hair dry and brittle, so be sure to use a conditioner or a leave-in product to lock in moisture.
Use SPF. You use SPF products to protect your skin, but what about your hair? On the days you know your hair will be getting lots of sunshine, try a hairspray or leave-in conditioner with SPF to prevent sun damage.
Secure your locks. If you know you're going to be out in the wind or otherwise putting your hair at risk for tangles, get creative with your style. Try a high ponytail, a French braid, or a bun.

Stress Less to Banish Breakouts

Looking for a way to treat your acne breakouts that doesn't cost a thing? Minimize the stress in your life — seriously! Stress alone can cause pimple eruptions. So do your best to just chill out! Make an effort to add some activity to your day that you enjoy. Get out and enjoy the sunshine. Go for a run, ride your bike, do yoga, or try ballroom dancing. Maybe you enjoy scrapbooking or reading gossip magazines. Just be sure to take a break during the day to devote to you. Once you feel better and more relaxed, you'll notice those pesky pimples will begin to fade away.

Avoid Shaving Cuts and Bumps

It happens to all of us: You put on your bikini or undress to slip on a short new cocktail dress, only to look down and realize you're a hairy mess! First, don't panic! And second, do not try to dry-shave your legs or bikini area. Your skin might snag the razor, causing nicks and cuts that could become infected, and the irritation will leave you with little red bumps. Not attractive! Take the time to use shaving gel — or in a real pinch, hair conditioner works just as well — and a fresh, clean razor. Then apply lotion to keep your skin hydrated and looking shiny. This may take a little bit of extra time, but when your legs are smooth and glowing instead of red, bumpy, and bleeding, you'll be happy you did it.

Learn What to Apply First

The trickiest part to putting on makeup isn't always how to do it — it's when to do it. Do you put sunscreen on first, or last? And when is the best time to apply concealer? Wonder no more, because dermatologist and beauty expert Dr. Jessica Wu has the answers.
Medicate. Apply anything medicated, such as acne or rosacea cream, to clean, dry skin so that it can absorb and do what it's supposed to do.
Protect. Next, apply sunscreen. To save time and money, look for a moisturizer with sunscreen — two steps in one product.
Now's the time to apply moisturizer if your skin still feels dry. You can also apply it to just the dry patches. This will help makeup go on smoother and more evenly.
Color. The last thing you want to put on is your makeup. Start with foundation, then concealer, followed by color products, and last but not least, powder.
Repeat. At night, repeat steps one and three after washing and drying your face.

Try Home Remedies

Almost everything you need for skin-care basics can be found right in your kitchen. So instead of hitting the drugstore, take a peek inside the fridge to treat some of these common skin problems.
For your face: Blackheads got you down? Give yourself a tomato facial! Cut a tomato in half, rub it on your face, and press into blackheads. Rinse and moisturize. As for the other half of the tomato, add it to a sandwich!
For your feet: Cure those rough heels and get your feet into a pair of gorgeous sandals with a quick at-home exfoliant. Combine sugar and oil — such as olive oil — and scrub your feet. The sugar will help remove dead skin while the oil moisturizes.
For hydration: Make a moisturizer that's the bee's knees! Combine equal parts honey and a vegetable or plant-based oil — like olive or jojoba — and apply it to your skin. Rinse after 15 minutes.

Everything You Didn't Know About Washing Your Face

Good Skin Starts With a Clean Face

Washing your face is a no-brainer, right? Well, not exactly. A recent study by Olay found that only 50 percent of women wash their face regularly. And even if you are among the half that does, most are not using the correct product, rinsing properly, or treating their skin with the TLC it deserves.

"I think probably 80 percent of women don't wash their face properly," says Annet King, director of global education for Dermalogica. "Good skincare starts with clean skin. There's no point in moisturizing or using anti-aging or anti-acne products on your skin if you don't have a clean palette to work with."

Overwashing your face can be just as damaging as not doing it at all. "Many people have the concept that skin needs to be squeaky clean," explains Hema Sundaram, MD, a Washington, DC-area dermatologist and laser expert. "But that means it's been stripped of its protective barrier. We must recondition ourselves on what clean skin means, which is dewy but not tight," Read on and discover the secrets to proper face cleansing and watch your skin glow.

What To Eat For Glowing Healthy Skin

The old adage “you are what you eat” not only applies to our overall health and nutrition, but how our skin looks and feels as well. As the largest organ in the body, our skin can benefit from the same nutrition we get from foods that have a positive effect on our heart and other major organs. In fact, new research suggests that eating foods rich in protein and certain vitamins and minerals might provide valuable anti-aging effects.
See Also:
Health & Medicine
Skin Care
Nutrition
Psoriasis
Mind & Brain
Nutrition Research
Dieting and Weight Control
Alcoholism
Living Well
Reference
Food groups
South Beach diet
Whole grain
Cellulite

Speaking November 8 at the American Academy of Dermatology’s SKIN academy (Academy), dermatologist Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University in New York, N.Y., and clinical assistant professor of dermatology and associate faculty of the School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pa., discussed the importance of eating nutritious foods for optimal skin health and how foods can aggravate common medical skin conditions.

“While there’s no mistaking how our diet affects our overall health, we’re just beginning to understand how certain foods – or lack thereof – can impact our skin’s health,” said Dr. Taylor. “In addition, studies show that some food and beverages can even worsen common skin conditions and cause allergic reactions that manifest on the skin.”

Good Food, Good Skin

Perhaps the simplest way to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and ensure the skin is getting optimal nutrition from the foods we eat is to follow the recommendations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Daily Food Guide, commonly referred to as the food pyramid.

These include:
Choosing and eating at least three ounces of whole grain breads, cereals, rice, crackers or pasta.
Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including more dark green and orange vegetables.
Consuming calcium-rich foods, such as fat-free or low-fat milk and other dairy products.
Opting for a variety of low-fat or lean meats, poultry and fish.

“The foods recommended by the USDA as part of a healthy diet contain valuable vitamins and minerals that have proven health benefits for our bodies,” said Dr. Taylor. “Research has shown that the antioxidants in vitamins C and E can protect the skin from sun damage and help reduce damage in skin cells caused by harmful free radicals, which contribute to aging skin. Similarly, we have long known that the B vitamin biotin is responsible for forming the basis of skin, hair and nail cells, and vitamin A – found in many fruits and vegetables – maintains and repairs skin tissue. Without an adequate supply of these vitamins, you may notice it in the appearance of your skin, hair and nails.”

While the direct link between food consumption and skin damage has not been widely studied, one study comparing the correlation between food and nutrient intake with skin wrinkling found a positive relationship. The study, “Skin Wrinkling: Can Food Make a Difference?”, published in the February 2001 issue of the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, determined that Swedish subjects aged 70 and older had the least skin wrinkling in a sun-exposed site among the four ethnic groups studied. This cross-sectional study, which analyzed the pooled data using the major food groups, suggests “that subjects with a higher intake of vegetables, olive oil, and monounsaturated fat and legumes, but a lower intake of milk/dairy products, butter, margarine and sugar products had less skin wrinkling in a sun-exposed site.”

“More studies need to be done to determine the long-term benefits of food on our skin,” said Dr. Taylor. “Eating a variety of healthy foods and drinking plenty of water so the skin stays hydrated should help most people improve the appearance of their skin.”

Foods That Can Worsen Skin Conditions

For the millions of Americans affected by medical skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema or psoriasis, eating certain foods or consuming alcohol could aggravate their symptoms or trigger an unexpected flare-up. Dr. Taylor recommended that patients affected by these chronic skin conditions should be aware of certain food interactions in order to better manage their treatment regimen.

Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by the foods we eat. Although numerous studies have not found a link between diet and acne, emerging research now suggests there may be a link between a low-glycemic diet and an improvement in acne. The study, “Low-Glycemic-Load Diet May Improve Acne in Young Men,” published in the July 2007 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined whether male acne patients aged 15 to 25 who followed a low-glycemic diet (25 percent of energy from protein and 45 percent from low-glycemic-index carbohydrates) had a reduction in acne lesions vs. a control group that consumed a diet rich in carbohydrates.

“The study found that at 12 weeks, acne lesions had decreased more in the young men in the low-glycemic group than their counterparts in the control group whose diet had no consideration for the glycemic index,” said Dr. Taylor. “This suggests that there could be a relationship between limiting carbohydrate-rich foods in acne patients’ diets and an improvement in their acne, but more studies need to be done to confirm this finding before we consider any future dietary modifications for our patients.”

On the other hand, some acne patients have noticed that certain foods worsen their symptoms – particularly chocolate, greasy foods, soft drinks, peanuts or foods high in fat.

“Patients who notice a cause-effect relationship between eating certain foods and acne flare-ups should avoid those foods,” said Dr. Taylor. “However, following a strict diet will not clear acne either. The best advice is to eat a well-balanced diet and follow the treatment plan recommended by your dermatologist.”

Rosacea, characterized by facial redness and swelling, commonly can be triggered by spicy foods or alcohol. In fact, a survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society found that the most common rosacea triggers are alcohol (52 percent), spicy foods (45 percent) and heated beverages (36 percent).

“Patients with rosacea should keep a journal to track their food and beverage triggers, so they can record how the experience made them feel and remind themselves to avoid these items in the future,” advised Dr. Taylor. “They also should read the labels at the grocery store and proceed with caution when it comes to spices, such as cayenne, red, black and white pepper, curry, chili powder, and even salsa.”

In addition, foods such as liver, vinegar, soy sauce, dairy products, certain fruits and vegetables, hot chocolate, cider, tea and coffee have been known to cause flare-ups in some rosacea patients.

Another chronic skin condition that can be aggravated by food is eczema, which is commonly characterized by dry, red and itchy patches on the skin. Foods that have been known to worsen eczema symptoms include eggs, milk, peanuts, soy, wheat and fish, while some patients even report that chocolate, coffee, alcohol, tomatoes and sugar can trigger a flare-up. Dr. Taylor added that juices from meats and fruits can irritate already-sensitive skin when they come in contact with the skin, and she suggested that eczema patients also should keep a trigger journal as a reference for what foods or drinks may have caused a flare-up.

Research has shown that psoriasis, a serious medical condition affecting the immune system and characterized by patches of raised, reddish skin covered by silvery-white scales, can be triggered by heavy drinking and that alcohol consumption may even inhibit the effectiveness of psoriasis treatment.

Dr. Taylor cautioned psoriasis patients who drink to do so in moderation and to avoid alcohol if they suspect it is worsening their symptoms.

“While certain foods also can trigger psoriasis, patients should avoid any radical diets that claim to ‘cure’ psoriasis,” explained Dr. Taylor. “There is not a cure for psoriasis and extreme changes in diet actually can worsen symptoms.”

Dr. Taylor added that individuals who have any questions about how their diet can affect the health and appearance of their skin should discuss their concerns with a dermatologist.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Skin

Sometimes it may seem like your skin is impossible to manage, especially when you wake up and find a huge zit on your nose or a cold sore at the corner of your mouth. The good news is that there are ways to prevent and treat common skin problems — read on for some tips.

Acne

A pimple starts when the pores in the skin become clogged with a type of oil called sebum, which normally lubricates the skin and hair. Acne is common during puberty when hormones go into overdrive, causing the skin to overproduce sebum. Because many oil-producing glands are on the forehead, nose, and chin, this area — the T-zone — is where a person is most prone to pimples.

Here are some tips to help prevent breakouts and clear them up as fast as possible:
Wash your face twice a day (no more) with warm water and a mild soap made for people with acne. Gently massage your face with circular motions. Don't scrub. Overwashing and scrubbing can cause skin to become irritated. After cleansing, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends applying an over-the-counter (no prescription needed) lotion containing benzoyl peroxide. This will decrease oil and bacteria.
Don't pop pimples. It's tempting, but here's why you shouldn't: Popping pimples can push infected material further into the skin, leading to more swelling and redness, and even scarring. If you notice a pimple coming before a big event, like the prom, a dermatologist can often treat it for you with less risk of scarring or infection.
Avoid touching your face with your fingers or leaning your face on objects that collect sebum and skin residue like your phone. Touching your face can spread the bacteria that cause pores to become inflamed and irritated. To keep bacteria at bay, wash your hands before applying anything to your face, such as treatment creams or makeup.
If you wear glasses or sunglasses, make sure you clean them frequently to keep oil from clogging the pores around your eyes and nose.
If you get acne on your body, try not to wear tight clothes. They don't allow skin to breathe and may cause irritation. Scarves, headbands, and caps can collect dirt and oil, too.
Remove your makeup before you go to sleep. When buying makeup, make sure you choose brands that say "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic" on the label. Throw away old makeup that smells or looks different from when you first bought it.
Keep hair clean and out of your face to prevent additional dirt and oil from clogging your pores.
Protect your skin from the sun. It may seem like a tan masks acne, but it's only temporary. A tan may worsen your acne, not improve it. Tanning also causes damage to skin that will eventually lead to wrinkles and increase your risk of skin cancer.

If you're concerned about acne, talk to a dermatologist. Dermatologists offer a range of treatments that help to prevent and acne scars. A dermatologist can help you find the treatment method that's best for you and can also give you lots of useful tips for dealing with acne and caring for your skin type. Some salons and spas have trained skin specialists, called estheticians, who can offer advice and skin care treatments.

Sun and Skin
We all know we need to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. Of course, it's impossible to avoid the sun — who wants to hide indoors when it feels so great to get outside? And the sun's not all bad, anyway: Sunlight helps our bodies create vitamin D. So follow these tips when you're outdoors to help manage sun exposure:
Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, even if it's cloudy or you don't plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. If you sweat a lot or go swimming, reapply sunscreen every 1½ to 2 hours (even if the bottle says the sunscreen is waterproof).
Choose a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Look for the words "broad spectrum protection" or UVA protection in addition to the SPF of 15 or greater. Select a sunscreen that says "nonacnegenic" or "noncomedogenic" on the label to help keep pores clear.
The sun's rays are strongest between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, so reapply sunscreen frequently and take breaks indoors if you can. If your shadow is longer than you are tall, then it's a safer time to be in the sun (you should still wear sunscreen, though).
Apply more sunscreen (with higher SPF) when you're around reflective surfaces like water, snow, or ice.
We all know that the sun can damage skin, but did you know it can contribute to eye problems, too? Protect your face and eyes with a hat and sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection.
Some medications, such as prescription acne medications, can increase your sensitivity to the sun (and to tanning beds). So if you're taking medication, increase your sun protection.
If you want the glow of a tan, try faking it with self-tanners or salon spray-on treatments. Avoid tanning beds. They still contain some of the same harmful UV rays as the sun.


Cold Sores

Cold sores usually show up as tender blisters on the lips. They are caused by a type of herpes virus (HSV-1, which most often is not sexually transmitted) so they are contagious from person to person. Once you get this virus it stays in your body, meaning you'll probably get cold sores every now and then throughout your life.

Here are ways you can help prevent cold sores from making an appearance (or reappearance if you've had them in the past):
Avoid getting cold sores in the first place by not sharing stuff like lip balm, toothbrushes, or drinks with other people who might have cold sores. The virus that causes cold sores is transmitted through the nose (in mucus) and the mouth (in saliva).
People who have the virus know that cold sores can flare up from things like too much sun, stress, or being sick. Just one more reason to lather on that suntan lotion, eat well, exercise, and get plenty of sleep!

If you do have a cold sore, here are some tips for keeping yourself comfortable:
Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen if the cold sores are painful.
Suck on ice pops or cubes to ease pain and keep cold sores cool.
Stay away from acidic foods (like oranges, tomatoes, and lemonade) and salty, spicy foods, which can cause irritation.
Don't pick at cold sores while you're waiting for them to go away. They may bleed or become infected with bacteria or you could spread the virus.

Usually, cold sores go away on their own after a week or two. But if you get them frequently or they're a problem, talk to your doctor or dermatologist, who may be able to prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms and shorten the amount of time cold sores last.

Eczema

Eczema is a condition that causes skin to become red, itchy, and dry. If you have eczema, you might notice that you are prone to getting itchy rashes — especially in places like where your elbows and knees bend or on your neck and face. The symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person.

Though you can't cure eczema forever, you can take steps to prevent it from flaring:
Stay away from things like harsh detergents, perfumed soaps, and heavily fragranced lotions that tend to irritate the skin and trigger eczema.
Because hot water dries by quick evaporation and over-washing with soap may dry skin, take short, warm showers and baths. If you're going to have your hands in water for a long time (like when you're washing dishes or your car), try wearing gloves. Detergent can dry and irritate skin.
Soothe your skin with regular applications of a fragrance-free moisturizer to prevent itching and dryness. Creams generally moisturize a bit better and last longer than lotions for most people. Creams work best if applied when the skin is slightly wet, like just after bathing.
Be careful which fabrics you wear. Cotton is good because it's breathable and soft. (But if you are exercising, some of the newer synthetic materials actually keep you drier and are better for you than cotton.) Try to stay away from materials like wool or spandex that may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Keep stress in check. Because stress can lead to eczema flares, try activities like yoga or walking after a long day to keep your stress levels low.
If you wear makeup, look for brands that are free of dyes and fragrances that can aggravate eczema.

If you're having trouble managing your eczema, talk to a dermatologist, who can suggest ways to better control it.

Other Skin Conditions

Warts are tiny skin infections caused by viruses of the human papilloma virus (HPV) family. There's no way to prevent warts from occurring (other than avoiding contact with people who have them). But if you do get them, don't rub, pick, or scratch them because you can spread the virus and get new warts.

Some over-the-counter medications containing special acids can help get rid of warts, but it's always a good idea to see your doctor before trying one. If you find warts in your genital area, you should see your doctor, who can recommend the best treatment method for that sensitive area.

Another type of wart-like viral infection is molluscum contagiosum. (It's not as scary as its name sounds!) Like warts, it can be transmitted through scratching and sexual contact.

Fine white or purplish lines on the skin called stretch marks are pretty common in most teens. Stretch marks are formed when the tissue under your skin is pulled by rapid growth or stretching, like during puberty. Stretch marks usually fade on their own over time. Talk to a dermatologist if you're concerned about them.

Because our skin is the most visible reflection of what's going on in our bodies, people equate healthy skin with beauty. But healthy skin is about more than just good looks; it's essential to our survival. So keep your skin glowing with the right skin care techniques and by eating well and getting lots of exercise.

The top five nutrients for healthy skin

The skin is one of the most powerful indicators of health. Wrinkles, dry or oily skin, acne, and inflammation all are signs of poor internal health, often brought on by consuming unhealthful foods and avoiding skin-healthy nutrients. To treat skin problems, most people turn to mainstream topical cosmetics, including lotions, soaps, scrubs, toners, and creams. However, treating outer blemishes with expensive, chemical-laden beauty products does little to address the root cause of the problem: poor nutrition and exposure to toxins in dietary and personal care products.

"Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body's internal needs, including its nutritional needs," says Dr. Georgiana Donadio, founder of the National Institute of Whole Health.

Recent research has shown that the skin reacts particularly well to certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that nourish the skin, making it appear youthful and healthy. The following nutrients are among the very best to consume for healthy, young-looking skin:

Silica:Silica is a trace mineral that strengthens the body's connective tissues - muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments, nails, cartilage, and bone - and is vital for healthy skin. Silica deficiency can result in reduced skin elasticity and can hamper the body's ability to heal wounds. Food sources of silica include leeks, green beans, garbanzo beans, strawberries, cucumber, mango, celery, asparagus and rhubarb. In its natural form, silica is found in the horsetail herb. Silica is also available as a concentrated liquid supplement from Eidon Ionic Minerals (www.eidon.com)

Zinc: The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell. Zinc consumption is also strongly linked to a reduction of prostate cancer.

Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, Brazil nuts, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.

The typical American diet is overabundant in omega-6 fatty acids found in baked goods and grains, and lacking in omega-3s, found in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and safflower oil. Simply balancing the intake of omega-3s with omega-6s can result in smoother, younger-looking skin. EFAs are also available in supplement form - such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil - and are effective at treating a wide range of disorders, from depression and cancer to arthritis and heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 oils include chia seeds, flax seeds and, for non-vegetarians, wild-harvested fish oils. A reputable supplier of fish oils is Nordic Naturals (www.NordicNaturals.com)

Selenium: Selenium is an antioxidant mineral responsible for tissue elasticity. It also acts to prevent cell damage by free radicals and is will known to be correlated with a reduction of breast cancer risk. It may play an important role in preventing skin cancer, as it can protect the skin from damage from excessive ultraviolet light.

Dietary sources of selenium include wheat germ, seafood such as tuna and salmon, garlic, Brazil nuts, eggs, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread. Brazil nuts are perhaps the best source, and eating just 3-4 Brazil nuts per day provides adequate selenium intake for most people. A good source of raw brazil nuts is www.RawFood.com

Vitamins C, E and A: Vitamin C is highly effective at reducing free radical damage, such as that caused by overexposure to the sun or pollution. Free radicals consume collagen and elastin - the fibers that support skin structure - and can cause wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. Vitamin C is especially effective at protecting the skin from overexposure to the sun when combined with vitamin E. Foods high in vitamin C include acerola (a cherry-like fruit), red and green bell peppers, guava, kale, parsley, collard greens, turnips, and broccoli.

Wherever possible, consumers are advised to get their vitamin C from a whole food source, and not to confuse synthetic vitamin C (ascorbic acid) with the real thing from plants (which is full spectrum vitamin C that goes way beyond ascorbic acid). A good source of whole food vitamins is Botani (http://www.alohabay.com/botani/index.html)

In terms of topical applications of vitamin C for your skin, there's nothing on the market that even comes close to a product called Camu C Serum manufactured by the Amazon Herb Company (http://amazondreams.amazonherb.net/Lluvia_CamuSerum.aspx), which is made from Camu Camu berries -- the highest natural source of full-spectrum vitamin C.

Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant that reduces the effects of sun exposure on the skin. When combined with vitamin A, vitamin E is especially effective at preventing certain skin cancers. Vitamin E also reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and, when applied topically, soothes dry or rough skin. Food sources of vitamin E include wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, safflower and sunflower oils, almonds, spinach, peaches, prunes, tomatoes, cabbage, asparagus, and avocados.

Avoid synthetic vitamin E supplements, as they have been shown to actually harm health. Only consume natural vitamin E from a reputable source such as the Life Extension Foundation (www.LEF.org)

Vitamin A promotes proper repair and maintenance of the skin, and deficiencies can result in a dry, flaky complexion. Topical vitamin A treatments are often used to treat acne and other skin ailments. Foods high in vitamin A include liver, chili peppers, dandelion, carrots, apricots, collard greens, kale, sweet potatoes, spinach, and cantaloupe.

It's best to consume vitamin A from natural food sources rather than supplementing it, as vitamin A can be harmful if taken in excessive amounts in supplement form (vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin). You may also wish to consider taking beta carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A and has none of the overdose concerns of vitamin A.

Avoid toxic skin care products
Proper nutrition is vital for the maintenance of youthful, smooth, healthy skin. Though lotions, washes, and creams can sometimes help treat certain skin ailments, most skin problems stem from an internal nutritional deficiency easily remedied by altering the diet to include specific nutrients. Before you spend a fortune on expensive skin care products, try addressing the problem from the inside out.

Also, beware of the toxic chemicals used in nearly all popular skin care products, including many of the expensive brands sold in department stores. Most products contain liver-damaging and cancer-causing petroleum derivatives that pass right through the skin and enter your bloodstream, causing DNA damage that ultimately compromises the health of your entire body. Use skin care products that are truly natural and contain absolutely no parabens, petroleum products or any ingredient you cannot pronounce.

There are many quality skin care product companies to choose from. I currently recommend Pangea Organics (www.PangeaOrganics.com) and the Lluvia line from the Amazon Herb Company (http://amazondreams.amazonherb.net), which are made from rainforest botanicals and contain no artificial or chemical ingredients whatsoever.

12 Ways To Decrease Hair Loss And Strengthen Hair

A few years ago I went through some of the most stressful months of my life and yes, my hair started to fall out! I'm in my middle thirties so at first I thought maybe it was just that time. Most of my male relatives have kept their hair though, even into their sixties so I started to do some research to make sure I covered all the bases. My daughter got in on the game too, because girls being girls, they want to do everything they can to make their hair longer and their hair follicles stronger.

But enough about that, let's get to the list! Here are the twelve ways to decrease hair loss and strengthen hair that we discovered. I personally can vouch for seeing results and after just double checking with my daughter, she says she has seen strengthening results too.
Is it really possible to decrease hair loss and strengthen hair?
My daughter and I have researched 12 solid ways to strengthen our hair.
Blow it, show it, long as I can grow it MY HAIR!!!

Gimme a head with hair! Long beautiful hair!



1. Eat some digestible protein consistently throughout the day. I found this out from a holistic purveyor on Chicago's West side. After I explained to her all the things I was trying to do to save my hair, she told me this was the number one thing people overlooked but worked the best. I have found that to be true. The key words are digestible and consistently. I am someone who has trouble digesting certain foods and if they go right through you your body doesn't benefit. Also the consistency element was something I had to work on as someone who used to regularly skip breakfast. Even a gulp of milk or a quarter cup three times a day will improve your intake, or beans, fish, eggs, anything with protein.

2. Find a way to reduce your stress. I know I know, just the thought of trying to find a way to reduce stess is stressing you out! I've been there, I know it can be difficult. But rest assured there are ways to decrease your stress. Meditation, prayer, or just going for a walk once or twice a day can do wonders. Lower the amount of caffeine you ingest or avoid people who tear at your insides. There are lots of ways to decrease stress, look it up on HubPages!

3. Gently massage your scalp. This works on two levels. Just as in number two above, it helps reduce your stress. But also, it stimulates your hair follicles. Similarly, wearing a hat for prolonged periods of time strains your hair follicles. This may seem like a minor detail, but trust me it works. My wife massages my "problem" areas, where my hair is receding the most. You can gently use your fingers (or your loved ones) and slightly massage the skin. Or if you have enough hair, you can even gently pull the hair. That's right, you read correctly. Gently pull the hair and this helps stimulate the follicles. Obviously too hard is too hard, if you start pulling out all your hair, you have gone too far and losing hair is the least of your worries, at this point you are going to want to hire a psychologist.

4. Eat your fruits and vegetables. Remember when you were at that family reunion a few years ago and you watched that old Aunt-what's-her-name with the hair down to her butt and the full beard gobbling up asparagus and rutabaga by the plateful! Coincidence? I don't think so. Also, eat a multivitamin at least once a week, every other day or every day. Better nutrition goes along way towards decreasing hair loss.

5. Don't brush your hair when it is wet. Your hair is extra weak when it is wet. You can use your hands, but don't use the fine comb until it dries.

6. Apply all natural, crushed aloe vera to your scalp. You can grow your own, buy a plant or two from just about any garden store or even a grocery store. Also, lots of good produce stores carry aloe vera and it is inexpensive. You can buy two giant leaves, and tear a small bit off every day and apply it to the problem areas. This has worked well for me. Beware, some aloe vera smells a bit like onions!

7. Eat soy. Soy isn't just for San Francisco feathered vegitarians anymore. It comes in various forms, and your bound to find one type that you will enjoy. It has nutrient and medicinal values that are good for strengthening your hair.

8. Don't over brush your hair. One thousand nine hundred ninetly nine, two thousand! OK seriously? That's too much. Your hair isn't made of metal, it's made of dead proteins, and as such, can only take so much abuse.

9. Blow dry your hair sparingly. If you don't have to, don't. If you must, blow dry your hair as little as required. The excessive heat will damage and weaken your hair.

10. After swimming in Chlorinated water, wash your hair. Of course most of us shower with chlorinated water so it's hard to avoid. But a lot of public pools really pour on the chemicals, rinse or wash them off when you get home.

11. Trim every month or two. Even if you're growing out your hair, you can still get it trimmed. The ends tend to get brittle over time, and that split can tear all the way up your hair until the entire hair is damaged.

12. Keep hydrated. You should do this anyway, for good health. But it also helps you keep your hair.

Once last note. With the combination of all these things I did witness my hair stopped falling out. Over a year I noticed that some of it even grew back. I've never tried Rogaine but I did try a few organic "hair regrowth" formulas and had some success. Although after trying those, I did get a circular patch of hair to grow on my back! Ha! So I don't use those products anymore, I just follow these twelve ways that my daughter and I came up with.Everyone is vulnerable to hair loss more or less depending on their environment and genetics. But you can do somethings to stave off the process and hedge your bet!

We hope you have some good results. Now where is that aloe vera plant? Hmmm.

When should you seek medical diagnosis?

Always consult your family doctor for medical advice about your health

and your individual hair loss condition.



Eliminating hair loss has never been easier with Sensi-Graft®! In as little as 28 days, you can transform your thinning hair or baldness into thick full hair! Take the first step right NOW! Call or contact us and ask for your