Posts in : Beauty

• Jan

  08

  The Most Unexpected Acne Fix

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on The Most Unexpected Acne Fix
  
  

  Perhaps it’s because acne is predominant in oily skin; We tend to blame oil for all our breakouts. If we have acne prone skin, we avoid applying oil or any products containing oil on our faces. But, is that really the answer? Or, are we doing more damage than help.

  Ayurvedic practitioners recommend adding oil to fight acne (especially adult acne).

  Yes. Oil.

  After years of suffering from adult acne, many have found a cure by taking a few breaths and slopping on a bit of oil on their faces. And voila, clear skin and happiness!

  While using oil benefits teenage breakouts, it is especially good for adult acne. This is because it helps to treat many skin problems that occur as our skin matures, such as sun damage, pigmentation, fine lines and loss of tone. So many people over thirty are relieved when they learn they can address pimples while preventing wrinkles, ending the daunting dilemma between treating their acne or aging.

  Conventional acne solutions involve harsh, drying acids, peels and astringents that lead to dehydrated, devitalized and sensitized skin. Using nourishing natural facial oils actually feeds, protects and supports our skin tissue, helping to restore its balance and ward off pimples while promoting moisture and hydration. Still don’t believe in the power of oil? Read on for the reasoning behind why oil is the ace-in-the-hole against adult breakouts.

  Oil Unblocks Pores
  

  Many think that adding oil to your skin will clog pores. In fact, it is dehydration of the skin that clogs the pores. When this occurs, our skin’s natural oil cannot secrete easily and lubricate its surface. Instead, it becomes thick and hardened and gets lodged in our pores, creating corks of dried out sebum.

  So what kind of oil should you use? Plant derived oils, like olive oil, help to prevent dehydration and thus, keeps the pores clean and open.

  Oil keeps out bacteria
  

  Dry skin allows for tiny cracks in the tissue which creates a channel for acne-causing bacteria to get in. Therefore, adding oil will keep your skin hydrated and create a solid barrier from bacteria.

  Oil Regulates Sebum Overproduction

  We tend to try to reduce oil on our skin by over-washing and then using astringents to further dry up the skin. The result is quite simple.  The more you dry out your skin, the more your skin tries to bounce back by producing more oil – in excess. This overproduction of oil will stimulate more acne production.

  To balance out your skin and keep the sebum production at bay, don’t wash your skin more than twice daily and replenish your skin with oils such as jojoba, which are structurally similar to sebum.

  Oil Calms Inflammatory Acne

  Many acne sufferers know this acne quite well. Red, blistering breakouts need comforting, soothing ingredients to diminish swelling and heat.

  Coconut oil is a great anti-inflammatory and antiseptic oil.  This oil helps calm irritation, including that of blemish redness. Use coconut oil in conjunction with turmeric, chamomile and lavender to bump up the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect.

  Read about all the benefits of Turmeric for your skin!

  Oil Helps Prevent Scars
  

  Just as important as overcoming acne is getting rid of the evidence. Dry, dehydrated skin scars more easily and also has more difficulty healing.

  Oils such as seabuckthorn berry and rosehip oil replenish the skin as well as contain high amounts of vitamin C. This antioxidant is excellent for helping to fade pigmentation and scarring. However, rosehip oil can be too stimulating for acne-prone skin so it should only be used on alternating days to avoid triggering breakouts.

  Try ReNude’s Turmeric Antioxidant Mask to supplement your skin with Vitamin C and Turmeric!

  If you’re tired of having this adolescent menace follow you into adulthood and are feeling brave, maybe it’s time to give oil a shot. What have you got to lose?

  Need more proof? Check out the evidence behind Turmeric and Coconut oil for Acne.

  Source: http://huff.to/179mjIy

   

  View more
• Dec

  24

  Turmeric: Nature’s Remedy for Rosacea

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Turmeric: Nature’s Remedy for Rosacea
  
  

  Acne rosacea or simply, rosacea is a chronic skin inflammation especially around the nose, cheeks, chin, eyelids or forehead. This inflammation resembles prominent blood vessels that spread in spider-like webs across the face, skin eruptions like acne, redness or swelling. Other symptoms include flushed face, swollen and red nose and irritation of the eyes or burning sensation. Rosacea is more prevalent in those who have fair skin, blush easily and are in between the ages 30-50. Rosacea can exist on its own or could be a side effect of other skin and eye disorders.

  While harmless, this skin condition could cause a permanent change to one’s appearance and often results in a loss of self esteem and psychological damage. There is no established cure for rosacea. People use many home remedies, oral antibiotics or antibiotic ointments to control rosacea. There are also some preventive measures that can control flare-ups and include avoiding sun exposure, using sunscreen regularly, reducing stress and avoiding hot beverages, alcohol and spicy food.

  Turmeric Benefits for Acne Rosacea

  There are many herbal and natural remedies based on turmeric, aloe vera, etc., that have anti-inflammatory and therapeutic properties which can heal conditions like atopic dermatitis, rosacea, erythema caused by exposure to UV light, drug-induced skin problems, psoriasis, and irritated or sensitive skin. In fact, in India there are are several topical creams which contain turmeric as an active ingredient to treat these skin ailments. However, skin treatments using turmeric are not a recent discovery, as it has been a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. It is now, finally gaining in popularity globally as a treatment for various skin conditions including rosacea, acne and eczema.

  How turmeric helps in Rosacea

  Inflammation causes release of certain mediators that cause an increase in permeability and dilation of capillaries leading to inflamed and swollen tissues. Turmeric used in animal models has shown to block these mediators; thus, preventing the cascade of cell inflammation.

  Turmeric has got widespread use as a spice in Asian cuisine and as a medicinal herb. Usually the roots are dried and ground to be made into herbal medicine or for cooking. Many herbs are being tested for their ability to treat skin conditions and one of those being tested is turmeric. It is consideredvery effective in treating rosacea and various other skin problems like psoriasis and hyper-pigmentation. This is due the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a polyphenol chemical found in turmeric. ,

  There are different ways that turmeric can be used to soothe symptoms of rosacea. Since it is an anti-inflammatory agent, it can reduce irritation and puffiness and improve circulation around the inflamed areas. Other inflammatory conditions can cause rosacea and other skin complaints. By acting as a liver detoxifier and wound healer, turmeric can help cure rosacea inflammation too. Otherwise, you can combine ½ teaspoon each of sandalwood and turmeric powders and apply on the inflammation. Turmeric is also said to benefit skin rejuvenation and help remove signs of premature skin aging. It has been suggested that using a turmeric face mask regularly can reduce redness and the small pimples that erupt on the face due to rosacea. Turmeric infused teas can also detoxify the body from within and clear skin of various ailments.

  If you suffer from rosacea, try ReNude Turmeric Antioxidant Mask. It contains both Sandalwood and Turmeric and won’t stain your skin!

  Turmeric Dosage

  There are two ways you can use turmeric to improve rosacea. You can take it internally as a supplement which will improve your overall general health and also benefit acne and rosacea or you can apply it as a face mask. For maximum benefit, you may opt to combine both of these options.

  If you choose to supplement internally, adults can use tablets or capsules, tincture or fluid extracts. The recommended dosage of standardized curcumin powder is 400-600mg thrice daily, dried turmeric root – 1-3g daily, cut root – 1.5-3g daily, fluid extract – 30-90 drops daily and tincture – 15-30 drops 4 times daily. You can also add turmeric to your soups, eggs, and curries. For a nice facial treatment mask, you can try ReNude’s Turmeric Antioxidant Mask.

  To boost your turmeric intake, try out this recipe for a delicious spiced turmeric tea.

  Source: http://bit.ly/18YUjrY

  View more
• Oct

  16

  Fight Acne with Turmeric

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Fight Acne with Turmeric
  
  

  Inflammatory Acne

  This is the painful, self-esteem bursting acne that is typically only treated by prescription medications. This type of acne is the worst possible type of acne as it is quite visible, hard to control and leaves behind nasty scars on your face.  This is why many people turn to antibiotics or other pharmaceuticals in the hopes to minimize the damage. While some relief may be obtained, it tends to be temporary and leads to the development of drug resistance and many side effects.

  So if not antibiotics? What else?

  Well, there’s the infamous Accutane. This drug is so nasty that monthly bloodwork must be done to ensure it isn’t damaging your liver. Not to mention, all the side effects you experience while taking it:  severely chapped lips, dry skin, and mood problems to name a few. Sadly, many of you will find yourselves going down this route.

  So how else can this be approached? Perhaps in an all-natural way!

  Turmeric has been shown to be effective as a natural antibiotic in many different applications. In Indian culture, turmeric has been used for centuries as a treatment of skin disorders, such as acne and rosacea. Just recently a study was done, which found some evidence that curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) and lauric acid (a fatty acid found largely in coconut oil) applied together to your skin may keep your acne at bay. The lauric acid helps the curcumin penetrate and accumulate in the skin to allow it to inhibit the bacteria that causes inflammatory acne.

  Read about all the other benefits of using Turmeric for beauty.

  How the Heck Do You Use Curcumin & Lauric Acid?

  Curcumin is found in the common spice turmeric. Turmeric has long history in India of being used to condition the skin. Turmeric has been a part of the women in India’s daily facial care regimes for centuries. Traditionally, turmeric is used as a bridal ritual before the wedding to make the skin soft and smooth.

  Lauric acid is the most abundant in human breast milk and coconut oil.  Coconut oil is close to 50% lauric acid. In Asian cultures, coconut oil is very commonly used to nourish the skin due to its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

  So, to obtain all these great benefits of turmeric for acne, one could simply combine turmeric with virgin coconut oil and apply it to the skin. However, this comes with one main problem. Turmeric can be messy and can stain clothes and skin yellow, so care must be exercised. .

  If you have tried everything for your acne and would like to give turmeric a shot, we have a solution for you.

  Turmeric is great for other beauty regimens.

  Check out our Turmeric Antioxidant Mask Unlike other Turmeric masks, ours will not stain your skin. The unique Turmeric in our mask contains significantly less yellow dye, making it a lot easier to work with.
  

  Here are some amazing results from a 1 month trial: Before & Afters

  View more
• Oct

  11

  Turmeric as a Teeth Whitener? Really?!

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Turmeric as a Teeth Whitener? Really?!
  
  

  We are only recently becoming more aware of all the benefits of turmeric to our bodies. In addition to health benefits, turmeric also seems to have beauty benefits. Not only is it great for the skin, it also seems to whiten teeth!

  Yes! You read it correctly!
  Turmeric also helps whiten teeth! We were very skeptical, so we tried it.

  It sounds a little counter-intuitive to apply a rich yellow substance to yellowing teeth. However, something in that golden spice seems to be an effective natural remedy for teeth whitening. Not only will you have white teeth, there is some research shows that it may even improve oral health issues such as gingivitis and oral cancer .

  Take the Turmeric for Whiter Teeth Challenge and try it out for yourself:

  Here are 3 different ways you can use turmeric to whiten your teeth:

  1. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric with water to form a paste. Then use a toothbrush (which will be permanently stained yellow) to pick up some of the paste and brush teeth as you would with toothpaste. Alternatively, you may spread the paste over teeth with your finger and leave for 1-2 minutes. Rinse out as you would after brushing.

  2. Sprinkle some turmeric into your regular toothpaste and brush as normal.

  3. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric with water and use as a mouthwash.

  So, if you’re looking for a natural option for teeth whitening, maybe give turmeric a shot. Just remember, you won’t see a miracle after the first try; you will see gradual results with every use.

  Did you know that turmeric can also dramatically improve your complexion (smoothness, prevent wrinkles, acne, rosacea). Check out ReNude Skincare’s non-staining Turmeric Antioxidant Mask.

  Turmeric can also be enjoyed in a soothing tea. Check out this great Spiced Turmeric Tea recipe.

  View more
• Oct

  03

  Evaluate Your Cosmetics: Glossary of Unsafe Cosmetic Additives

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Evaluate Your Cosmetics: Glossary of Unsafe Cosmetic Additives
  
  

  It turns out beauty is more than skin deep: The average person slathers, lathers, rubs and sprays, 10 different skin care products on his or her body every day–and since our skin acts more like a sponge than a barrier, we absorb the nearly 130 chemicals we regularly expose ourselves to. Cosmetics companies and the FDA maintain that these chemicals are safe, and many of them are–in small doses at least. But consider that the average woman ingest as much as four pounds of lipstick in her lifetime, and you begin to understand how a little dab here a quick spray there begins to add up. The fact is, no one really knows how certain chemicals affect us over a time, or how they react in our bodies in combination. Other chemicals have known dangers: Phthalates, for example, which are often found in artificial fragrances, are a class of hormone disruptor known to cause birth defects, sperm damage, infertility, and the feminization of baby boys, for instance.

  Make your skin glow, naturally, with ReNude’s Turmeric Antioxidant Mask.

  Almost 90 percent of the 10,500 cosmetics and skin care ingredients known to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have not been evaluated for safety by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, the FDA, or any other publicly accountable institution, according to the Environmental Working Group. To be fair, no one’s dropping dead after a using a mascara wand or a body wash, and manufacturers have an interest in creating products that don’t harm their customers. But complex chemicals with potential unknown side effects lead us to follow the Precautionary Principle. That is to say, if we’d prefer to err on the side of safety until we know. We’re not the only ones who feel this way: More than 1,110 personal-product ingredients have been banned for use in cosmetics in the European Union because of concerns that they may cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive ills. By contrast only 10 are banned in the U.S.

  Some of the Cosmetic “Culprits”

  1,4-dioxane: A known animal carcinogen and probable human carcinogen, according to the EPA. It’s also a byproduct of a petrochemical process known as “ethyoxlation,” which involves adding ethylene oxide (a toxin linked to breast cancer) to other chemicals to render them less harsh. More than 56 cosmetics ingredients are associated with 1,4-dioxane, including sodium laureth sulfate, sodium myreth sulfate, polyethylene glycol, and chemicals that end in “xynol,” “ceteareth” and “oleth.”

  Aluminum chlorohydrate: An astringent used as a topical antiperspirant or topical body deodorant. Aluminum is a neurotoxin that alters the function of the blood-brain barrier, linking it to Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.

  Ammonia: A compound used in hair dyes and bleaches. It releases a caustic, pungent gas that severely irritates the eyes and respiratory tract.

  Dibutyl phthalate: A chemical plasticizer found in nail polish and mascara that helps prevent cracking. Studies have shown that it causes birth defects and harms male reproductive organs. DBP and other forms of phthalates are also frequently present in fragrances used in air fresheners, cleaning detergents, and hair sprays. A loophole in federal law allows phthalates to be included in fragrances without ever appearing on the product’s label, which means that phthalates are more ubiquitous than we realize. In September 2000, scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found seven phthalates, including DBP, in the bodies of all 289 persons they tested. More alarming, however, was the fact that women of child-bearing age, who could conceivably be pregnant and expose their fetuses to dangerous toxins while in the womb, appeared to receive the highest exposures–up to 20 times more DBP than the average person, well above the federal safety standard.

  Formaldehyde: A preservative and disinfectant classified by the EPA as a probable human carcinogen. Found in cosmetics such as mascara and eye shadows, formaldehyde can cause nausea, coughing, and asthma symptoms, as well as burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat.

  Lead actetate: Although banned from use in cosmetics in the European Union, this lead compound, which is a known developmental and neurotoxin, can be found in hair dyes and cleansers in the United States.

  Hydroquinone: A skin-bleaching chemical, as well as a possible carcinogen, neurotoxin, and skin sensitizer. Hydroquinone can cause a disfiguring skin disease called ochronosis, which results in irreversible black-blue lesions.

  Mercury: Used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in cosmetics such as mascara, where it can be listed under the name “thimersoal,” mercury can damage brain function even at low levels. Mercury can be found in eye drops and certain imported skin-lightening creams, as well.

  Nanoparticles: Largely untested, these extremely minuscule particles are usually undeclared on product labels, even though they can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. You can find them in bronzers, eye shadows, sunscreens, and lotions.

  Parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, isoparapben, etc.): The most common preservatives used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Parabens can mimic the hormone estrogen, which some studies show plays a role in the development breast cancer and urogenital abnormalities.

  Triclosan: An antibacterial compound found in cleansers, deodorants and other cosmetic products that is classified by the EPA as a probable human carcinogen. Overuse could also result in strains of drug-resistant superbacteria.

  Toluene: A solvent and nervous-system toxin found in some nail polishes. High amounts can affect kidneys and cause birth defects. It’s also used to dissolve paint and as an octane booster in gasoline fuels used in internal combustion engines.

  If you found this article informative, here are some tips on how to take care of your skin naturally.

  source: http://bit.ly/xJEgbL

   

  View more
• Oct

  02

  Essential Tips on Natural Skincare

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Essential Tips on Natural Skincare
  
  

  Simplify

  Don’t be fooled by cosmetic advertising: Myriad creams, lotions, and potions at the drugstore and cosmetics counter make promises they could never deliver on. (Trust us, all the fancy products in the world will never turn the tide of aging.) Eye creams, for instance, rarely vary in formulation from your basic facial moisturizer. Our recommendation is to keep it simple: All you need is a basic cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to keep your skin in tip-top shape. Everything else is just dressing.

  Make Sure “Natural” Is Really Natural

  Toxic synthetic chemicals are the biggest issue in the beauty industry today, so it pays to hone a keen eye when it comes to examining product labels. For example, it’s counterintuitive, but unfortunately, the words “natural” and “all-natural” are not regulated labeling terms.  Another great resource is the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database site, which rates popular cosmetics and personal-care products with hazard scores on a scale of 0 to 10, depending on their toxicity.
  

  For a true natural facial treatment that really works, try ReNude Turmeric Antioxidant Mask.

  Say No to Fragrance

  A loophole in federal law doesn’t require companies to declare any of the dozens of toxic chemicals that a single product’s fragrance mixture could contain. Artificial fragrances, which frequently contain phthalates, can also trigger allergic reactions and other health problems. Be mindful of the hidden dangers that “fragrance” or “parfum” listed on ingredients labels can pose, and always choose fragrance-free products.
  

  Choose Nontoxic, Recyclable Packaging

  You can never go wrong with glass because it’s recyclable and has no danger of leaching toxins into the product contained within. As far as plastics go, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), also known by the recycling code #1, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), #2, are most frequently accepted by municipal curbside recycling programs and are considered safe; polycarbonate (#7), may leach the endocrine disruptor bisphenol-A, or BPA. Polypropylene (#5), another food-safe plastic, is also a good alternative, though less easily recycled. Avoid containers that bear recycling code #3 and the letter “V”, which refers to polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Dubbed “the poison plastic,” PVC poses great environmental and health hazards from manufacture to disposal. In addition to releasing hydrochloric acid, cancer-causing dioxins, and other persistent pollutants into the air, water, and land during its production, PVC also contains additives and chemical stabilizers–such as lead, cadmium, and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (a suspected carcinogen that is known to cause a host of reproductive and developmental defects)–that can leach, flake, or off-gas from the plastic throughout its life.
  

  Ask How Company Values Stack Up

  A skincare company is more than the sum of its products. What about its philosophy and values? Visiting a website is always enlightening. Does the company test on animals, for example? Has it signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics, a pledge to remove harmful chemicals from ingredients lists and replace them with safer alternatives? How committed is it to reducing its impact on the environment?
  

  Choose Organic Beauty and Grooming Products

  Organic ingredients are those grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, which is healthier for the planet and healthier for our bodies. Better yet are botanicals grown using biodynamic farming methods, which go beyond organic by emphasizing an even more holistic relationship between the soil, plants, and animals. The USDA National Organic Program has been certifying personal-care products since 2003, and an increasing number of organic skincare products now bear the USDA organic seal. To tell if a product is biodynamic-certified, look for Demeter U.S.A.’s stamp of approval on the label.
  

  Sidestep the Petrochemicals

  Used to make emollients for face cream or found in the form of coal tar for scalp-treatment shampoos, petroleum byproducts can be contaminated by cancer-containing impurities. A nonrenewable and environmentally unfriendly resource, petroleum barely belongs in your car, let alone on your skin. Identify it on labels as petrolatum, mineral oil, and paraffin.
  

  Stay Beautiful Inside and Out by Being Healthy

  You don’t have to resort to a flurry of potions and lotions, chemical peels, or surgical face-lifts to get fresh, glowing skin. Diet and exercise should play vital roles in your skincare regimen, as well. Besides working up a good sweat to keep nutrient-carrying blood circulating throughout your body, be sure to feed yourself plenty of protein, healthy fats (such as omega-3 fish oils or flaxseed oils), complex carbohydrates, and fruit. Drinking six to eight glasses of water is also a boon for flushing out toxins that might otherwise show up on your skin.
  

  Don’t fall for exotic trends

  Every now and then, a bizarre new trend promises to be the magic bullet for all your skin care woes but ends up being downright cruel, whether to you or the planet. The use of human and cow placenta extracts is at the top of our list for being kooky and just plain crazy, especially since they contain a raft of hormones that could potentially result in breast growth in toddlers, breast cancer, and other severe health issues. Another weird practice du jour is the fish pedicure, which involves having dozens of tiny nibbling carp exfoliate your feet in 94-degree Fahrenheit chemical-packed water, a procedure we’re sure is not PETA-approved.

  If you enjoyed this article, you may also find our Glossary of Unsafe Cosmetic Additives useful.

  Source: http://bit.ly/xJEgbL

  View more
• Sep

  28

  Reduce Wrinkles & Improve Skin Tone by Applying Vitamin C

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Reduce Wrinkles & Improve Skin Tone by Applying Vitamin C
  
  

  Overexposure to ultraviolet radiation and environmental pollutants can accelerate skin aging by degrading collagen and triggering oxidative stress in the skin. Fortunately, the anti-aging benefits of a time-honored remedy used by ancient civilizations to heal their skin can help overcome these undesirable effects. Vitamin C is an essential component in the body’s production of collagen and a potent antioxidant that can help rejuvenate aged and sun damaged skin.

  While vitamin C is an important nutrient for overall health, little reaches the skin when taken orally. As levels of vitamin C in the skin decline with age, replenishing levels directly in the skin can help combat collagen breakdown and oxidative stress. Results from clinical trials show that when applied topically, vitamin C promotes collagen formation and mitigates the effects of free radicals, helping to maintain firm and youthful skin.

  A Staple of Ancient Beauty

  Throughout history, women have always found ways to enjoy the anti-aging effects of vitamin C on their skin.

  In Tibet during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), women who wanted to fight the outward signs of premature aging would rub sea buckthorn on their face and hands. The golden-orange berries of the sea buckhorn plant yield a deep-colored oil that is a major source of vitamin C.

  It is not surprising that centuries ago, Native Americans made a vitamin C-rich paste out of rose petals to moisten and heal their skin. In fact, cold cream was originally known as “ointment of rose water” because of its two main ingredients: rose oil and rose water.

  Modern medicine has come to realize why these herbal remedies were so trusted by ancient civilizations. When topically applied, vitamin C provides a skin-rejuvenating effect by improving collagen synthesis in the skin that slows down with aging, as well as limiting skin damage from free radicals. Collagen is a structural support protein that is essential for firm, youthful skin. Overall, the amount of collagen in the skin tends to decline with age, an ongoing process that is accelerated by a number of factors like sunlight, smoking, free radicals, and inflammation. As the synthesis of new collagen slows down, topical vitamin C is one of the most effective ways to boost collagen synthesis and slow its degradation.

  What makes topical vitamin C preparations so important? Humans and a few other species lack the ability to produce the vitamin C that is so vital for beautiful, healthy skin. To make things even more challenging, vitamin C is water-soluble. Consequently, a great deal of the vitamin C we ingest gets excreted rapidly.

  While oral supplementation with vitamin C is important for maintaining one’s overall health, it is not very effective at increasing skin concentrations of vitamin C because its absorption is limited by active transport mechanisms in the gut. The most effective method for replenishing vitamin C in the skin is therefore to go straight to the source, and apply it directly to the skin.

  Topical antioxidants produce much higher concentrations in the skin than nutritional supplements. In fact, applying vitamin C to the skin is 20 times more effective than oral ingestion. Simply applying vitamin C daily for three days can achieve optimal levels in the skin. It is also known that once a topical antioxidant is absorbed into the skin, it cannot be washed or rubbed off. So, even after stopping application, significant amounts of vitamin C will remain in the skin for up to three days.

  Rejuvenating the skin by constantly replenishing vitamin C stores can therefore help maintain healthy, younger-looking skin, especially as we get older.

  Rebuilding Youthful Skin From the Inside Out

  Vitamin C’s skin-health benefits are largely attributed to its benefits in supporting healthy collagen. Collagen works hand-in-hand with elastin to support the skin. Basically, it supplies the framework that provides form, firmness, and strength to the skin, while elastin is what gives skin its flexibility.

  Collagen is just one of thousands of different proteins in the body. Most proteins occur only in small amounts. But by far the most abundant protein is collagen. In fact, collagen constitutes more than a third of all protein in the body and about 75% of the skin.12 From our bones and teeth to blood vessels and cartilage, collagen is the main connective tissue that holds us together. Collagen is a very complex structure and can only be composed in several steps. Vitamin C is involved in every one of them!

  For a vitamin C facial treatment, try reNude’s Turmeric Antioxidant facial mask

  No wonder the tensile strength of collagen is greater than steel wire of the same weight. Understandably, the making of such a complex structure as collagen can only be accomplished in several steps. And vitamin C is involved in every one of them.

  However, levels of this important vitamin are known to decline with aging, especially in the skin. Age-associated damage occurs when the rate of collagen production cannot keep up with its breakdown, a process that is also accelerated by overexposure to sunlight and environmental factors. A number of in vitro studies have confirmed that treating human skin cells with a topical vitamin C derivative can stimulate collagen synthesis. Topical vitamin C may also help preserve existing collagen by influencing the enzymes responsible for collagen degradation.  Protecting Your Skin From the Effects of Aging, vitamin C is not only necessary for collagen production and maintenance, but it is also a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals in the skin. Free radicals are atoms or molecules with an unpaired electron. They are very chemically reactive and short-lived. These free radicals can cause damage to collagen over time. As a result, the skin begins to sag and wrinkle. Although our skin naturally has cellular enzymes and other metabolic processes to deal with this oxidative damage (antioxidants being one of them), aging and environmental stresses like sunlight, smoking, and pollution, can eventually overpower these protective controls. Applying a low-molecular weight antioxidant like vitamin C is a very effective way to boost the skin’s natural protection against age-causing free radicals. Once absorbed into the skin, this water-soluble vitamin can also help regenerate vitamin E that has been oxidized. Vitamin E is a potent lipid-soluble antioxidant that is important for preventing oxidative damage in the lipid cell membrane.

  The Proof

  Clinical Studies Demonstrate Beautifying Effects of Topical Vitamin C. Several clinical studies have also found that topical vitamin C provides numerous beneficial effects on aged and photodamaged skin.A placebo-controlled study performed in 25 volunteers showed that those who topically applied a topical formulation of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) experienced a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles in aged skin after a relatively short time period of 12 weeks. Several other studies have substantiated these benefits. A three-month double-blind study in 19 patients with moderately photodamaged facial skin found a significant improvement in fine wrinkling, tactile roughness, skin tone, and sallowness on the side treated with ascorbic acid compared with the control side. Photographic assessment also revealed a 57.9% improvement in the vitamin C-treated patients compared with the control group. More recently, a six-month study using topical application of vitamin C cream in photoaged patients also showed reduction of facial wrinkles and improvement in the appearance of photoaged skin compared with a control group. Besides its uses in photorejuvenation, vitamin C has also been shown to be of benefit in patients with acne, both helping to prevent and reduce acne lesions. In addition to all this, topical vitamin C can reverse yet another aspect of skin aging: age spots (or lenti-gines). These dark areas are where UV-induced oxidation causes melanin to pool in the upper layers of the skin.

  Turmeric is another great antioxidant for your skin, for more information. Check out: Turmeric for beauty

  Source: http://bit.ly/19K0Nk

  View more
• Sep

  25

  The Golden Spice of Life

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on The Golden Spice of Life
  
  

  From the Dr. Oz Site:

  Turmeric is what gives curry and American mustard its yellow color. The active compound in turmeric root, called curcumin, contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric can benefit the cardiovascular and immune systems along with brain function. It can also be used as a pain reliever.

  Try consuming fresh or dried turmeric root in large quantities, or try taking 500 mg of curcumin supplements once or twice per day as needed for pain management. Curcumin is difficult for your body to absorb, so choose supplements with added phospholipids or that include “mireva” or “BCM-95” in the ingredients to ensure you’re getting the highest quality extract.

  Get all these great benefits with our turmeric tea recipe

  View more
• Sep

  20

  Turmeric for Beauty?

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Turmeric for Beauty?
  
  

  Turmeric (curcuma longa) is being touted as an ingredient that not only helps spice up curry dishes, but also adds potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to the diet. If you enjoy Indian cuisine, you’re probably familiar with this super spice.

  The western medical community has been doing research into turmeric’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, especially curcumin, a compound that gives turmeric its dark yellow color, and its potential in the treatment of cancer and other diseases. But in the East, turmeric has long been used for medicinal purposes.

  Turmeric is from a perennial shrub originating in south and southeastern Asia and western India. In India, it was first used as a dye and then as a spice. It has been used in Indian ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for years for the treatment of inflammatory and digestive disorders.

  Skincare benefits

  There is a long list of skin care benefits associated with turmeric, including the treatment of acne blemishes, blackheads, dark spots and hyper-pigmentation and other skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It helps heal and prevent dry skin, and to slow the skin aging process, and is used to diminish wrinkles, keep skin supple and improve skin’s elasticity. This sunny bright spice is also being used as an ingredient in sunscreens. It is used daily by East Indian women as a facial cleanser and exfoliant.

  Rejuvenate your skin with reNude’s Turmeric Antioxidant facial mask.

  The Royal Treatment

  The spice is also used in bridal beautification ceremonies in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Turmeric is used in southern India as part of the marriage ritual. On the wedding day, the string of the Thali necklace (Mangalsutra), which is the equivalent of a wedding ring, is prepared in turmeric paste, dried and then tied around the bride’s neck by the groom. In the palaces of Central Java, Indonesia, the root was used during Lulur, an ancient royal ceremony for the bride-to-be, in a ritual to cleanse the body and give it a radiant glow. Hindu brides-to-be rub a mixture of turmeric and gram flour on their bodies on the morning of their wedding to give the skin a golden glow.

  Turmeric – A Sacred Spice

  Turmeric was also used in religious rites in both ancient India and China. Turmeric is still used during many traditional Indian celebrations. It is used in Hindu rituals, and as dye for holy robes, as well as saris and other Indian clothing. In the Holi, a Hindu spring festival, turmeric paste is applied to the skin as a body ornament.

  Learn more about turmeric’s medicinal qualities or check out reNude’s Turmeric Antioxidant facial mask

  View more
• Sep

  18

  Sandalwood: An Ancient Anti-Aging and Acne Treatment

  
  
  by admin
  posted in Beauty
  Comments Off on Sandalwood: An Ancient Anti-Aging and Acne Treatment
  
  

  Sandalwood is the name of a group of fragrant trees that is found mostly in India, some other countries of south Asia, Indonesia and Australia. This aromatic tree was initially used mostly by perfume makers, a practice that lead to the overharvesting of this otherwise slow-growing tree.

  While the fragrance continues to be one of the most popular derivatives of sandalwood, the powder and oil are also heavily used for their excellent skincare enhancing qualities, especially to enhance the glow on a bride just before her wedding.

  Many Ayurvedic, as well as other natural products use sandalwood as a key beauty ingredient. Alternatively, you can also use sandalwood to make your own homemade face packs.

  Also read: Ayurvedic care for oily skin

  Sandalwood is excellent for various skin ailments and problems:

  As an anti-aging treatment: Sandalwood contains powerful antioxidants and is also an anti-inflammatory agent that helps to improve blood circulation to your face, remove toxins and fight the formation of wrinkle-causing free radicals. A sandalwood face pack also helps undo damage caused by the sun, and works as an excellent anti-aging treatment.

  Zap those zits: Sandalwood powder has long been used by teenagers tormented by pimples. A traditional paste of equal parts sandalwood powder and turmeric with water can be very effective in reducing random eruptions of zits.

  If you suffer from a more serious acne problem, a paste of sandalwood powder and rosewater can help mellow down a pimple breakout.

  Ditch that dry skin: Many creams and lotions aimed at reducing dryness use sandalwood oil as a key ingredient.

  As a massage essential: Sandalwood oil is often used in aromatherapy massages, especially if the person getting the massage is prone to anxiety and moodiness. While some may find the sandalwood fragrance too strong, the scent is actually great for soothing nerves and promotes a sense of peace and meditation.

  Sandalwood as a soporific: Since anxiety and insomnia are often related, the soothing sandalwood not only helps to reduce anxiety and stress, but also promotes better sleep and tackle insomnia.

  Check it out: reNude’s Turmeric Antioxidant Maskcontains sandalwood!

  Reduces itchiness: Sandalwood has a calming effect on the skin and can be used to relax inflamed skin. It’s also great to apply after an insect bite.

   

  View more