Displaying items by tag: Skin care

Part 2: What Causes Dandruff?

The exact cause of dandruff, also known as scurf or Pityriasis simplex capillitii is unknown. However, most experts do agree that it is not caused by poor hygiene.

Causes may include, but are not limited to:

• Not enough hair brushing: People who do not comb and/or brush their hair regularly have a slightly higher risk of having dandruff. This is because they are not aiding the shedding of skin that combing and/or brushing provides.
• Yeast: People who are sensitive to yeast have a slightly higher risk of having dandruff, so it is logical to assume that yeast may play a part.
• Dry skin: People with dry skin tend to get dandruff more often.
• Seborrheic dermatitis (irritated, oily skin): People with seborrheic dermatitis are very prone to dandruff.
• Not enough shampooing: Some people say that if you do not shampoo enough there can be a buildup of oil and dead skin cells, causing dandruff. However, many experts doubt this is true.
• Certain skin conditions: People with psoriasis, eczema, and some other skin disorders tend to get dandruff much more frequently than other people.
• Some illnesses: Adults with Parkinson's disease and some other neurological illnesses are more prone to having dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Patients recovering from heart attacks and strokes, and some people with weak immune systems may have dandruff more often than other people.
• Reaction to hair or skin care products: Some people react to some hair care products with a red, itchy, scaling scalp.
• Malassezia: Malassezia is a fungus that lives on everybody's scalp. Generally, it will cause no problems at all. However, it can grow out of control. It feeds on the oils our hair follicles secrete. When this happens the scalp can become irritated and produce extra skin cells. These extra skin cells die and fall off; they mix with the oil from hair and scalp, and turn into what we see as dandruff.
• Diet: Some experts say that people who do not consume enough foods that contain zinc, B vitamins, and some types of fats are more prone to dandruff.
• Mental stress: Experts believe there is a link between stress and many skin problems.
• HIV: A study found that 10.6 percent of people with HIV have seborrheic dermatitis.

 

NPA Products 300 strong

Consumers who care about the quality of their personal care products now have hundreds of reasons to look for the “certified natural” seal of approval on their purchases. The Natural Products Association (NPA) is pleased to announce that more than 300 natural personal care products have been certified through its two-year old natural standard certification program.
Under the NPA’s program, to merit bearing the seal, products must follow strict guidelines set by the association. Products must be made up of at least 95 percent natural ingredients – coming from a renewable or plentiful
source found in nature (flora, fauna, mineral). Non-natural ingredients are allowed only when viable natural alternative ingredients are unavailable and only when there are absolutely no suspected potential human health risks. Products cannot
use animal testing beyond what is required by law, and must
use a majority of bio-degradable and post-consumer recycled content in their packaging.
NPA also certifies ingredients as natural. These 100 percent natural ingredients can be used by manufacturers to develop products that are in compliance with the natural standard. Currently, there are 100 certified natural ingredients.
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De-Stress with Herbs

For physical and mental well-being, it is crucial to find ways to slow down. Herbal rituals: A teatime, a long soak in an herbal bath, and a restful slumber with an herbal pillow can help soften the pace.

Herbal Tea Time
Whether you need to relax before climbing into bed, de-stress after a busy day at work, or even get your day off on the right (calm) foot, a cup of herbal tea can help. Try different herbs that are known for their soothing properties, then pick your favorites and enjoy them solo or in combinations. As a general guideline, use about a teaspoon of herb per cup of water, and steep for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Copyright© Frontier™ Natural Products Co-op

Fall Tips

by Cat Tatman, Director of Marketing for gloProfessional

Make sure your clients are wearing the proper shade of foundation. During the warmer months, skin is typically a little darker; however as we move towards the cooler months complexions will get lighter, which means a slightly lighter shade of foundation is needed. This does not mean looking pale and pasty though, simply use bronzer and contour certain areas of the face for a natural glow. Apply the bronzer in the shape of a capital cursive “E” to each side of the face. These are areas where the sun naturally hits the face, by applying bronzer to these areas it will look natural and complement a lighter complexion.
Skin can also become dehydrated and look dull when the climate is cooler. Combat lack-luster skin by keeping it properly moisturized and by selecting makeup that will help skin look more vibrant. You may consider transitioning your client from a pressed base foundation that has a matte finish to a liquid foundation or loose base that offers a more satin or dewy finish. Additionally, cream blushes are great for cooler months to keep skin looking fresh; highlighters and shimmer bricks are great to create a brighter looking complexion.
Clients will also be in need of services and products to address their end-of-summer skin care issues such as hyperpigmentation. Offer specials on services such as brightening facials, peels like TCA’s or Jessner’s and that includes a complimentary skin care and makeover consultation. This makes it easy for your client to get their professional treatment, products, and makeup all in one stop!

Part 1: What is Dandruff? What are the Symptoms of Dandruff?

Dandruff is: The presence, in varying amounts, of white or gray scales in the hair of the scalp, due to excessive or normal branny exfoliation of the epidermis
-according to MediLexicon's medical dictionary

Dandruff, also known as scurf or Pityriasis simplex capillitii, affects the scalp and causes flakes of skin to appear - it is a common condition. Our skin cells are forever renewing themselves. When the skin cells on our scalp are renewed the old ones are pushed to the surface and out of the scalp. For a person with dandruff the renewal is faster, meaning more dead skin is shed, making the dandruff more noticeable. Dandruff can also occur if the scalp is frequently exposed to extreme temperatures.
Dandruff can be chronical (long-term) or the result of certain triggers. People with dandruff may also experience irritation and redness on the scalp. Excessive flaking may be caused by an underlying illness or condition, such as psoriasis, a fungal infection (Malassezia), seborrheic dermatitis, or even head lice. Some individuals with severe dandruff may have social or self-esteem problems. Therefore, treatment may be important for both physiological and psychological reasons.
A significant number of people with dandruff find it improves as they get older. It is estimated that about 50 percent of people in Western Europe and North America suffer from dandruff. Dandruff is more common in men than in women, and in people with oily skin. Some studies have suggested that diets that are too salty, sugary or spicy and accompanied by excessive alcohol may exacerbate dandruff. Dandruff does not contribute to hair loss.

Seborrheic dermatitis

This is a skin condition in which the skin becomes inflamed or flaky. Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp is a severe form of dandruff. When it affects the scalp most people refer to it as dandruff. When babies have it, it is referred to as cradle cap. Seborrheic dermatitis causes larger, greasier flakes than most other types of dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis affects not only the scalp, but the skin in other parts of the body too.

What are the signs and symptoms of dandruff?

The hallmark sign of dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, is white flakes on the scalp and in the hair. If the person is wearing dark clothes, the flakes will be more noticeable when they fall on their shoulders. The scalp may also feel itchy, tight, or sore.

Signs and symptoms in babies and children

Often referred to as cradle cap, signs and symptoms may appear when the baby is between two weeks and six months of age, especially between the ages of three to eight weeks - this usually disappears after a few weeks; in some cases it may take months. Although cradle cap may be alarming to parents, it is not dangerous.

New Survey Finds Rosacea Worsens With Exposure

While many adults still look forward to summer as eagerly as school children, new survey results show that increased exposure to sun and hot weather can wreak havoc on those with rosacea, a widespread, red-faced skin disorder now estimated to affect more than 16 million Americans. The survey also found that a variety of common heat sources can affect the condition year-round.
In a recent survey of 431 rosacea patients conducted by the National Rosacea Society (NRS), 80 percent of the respondents said they had suffered a flare-up of symptoms as a result of being out in the sun, and 80 percent said their condition was aggravated by hot weather. Excessive indoor heat was a trigger for 56 percent of those surveyed, while 55 percent said heavy exercise had set off a rosacea flare-up. Fifty-four percent said a hot bath had induced an outbreak of rosacea signs and symptoms, and 42 percent said heated beverages had done the same. Heavy clothing had triggered a flare-up for 32 percent, and 26 percent cited menopausal hot flashes.
“Although medical therapy is available to help control this widespread and chronic disorder, it is also important for rosacea patients to identify and minimize any environmental or lifestyle factors that may trigger or aggravate their symptoms,” said Dr. Joseph Bikowski, clinical associate professor of dermatology at Ohio State University. He said he advises patients to keep a diary to determine what factors might be affecting their individual cases.
In addition to common heat triggers, survey respondents reported a host of other sources of heat that had aggravated their individual conditions, including fireplaces and bonfires, high-intensity lamps, steam baths, saunas, and cooking over a hot stove.
The good news is that the survey showed rosacea flare-ups can often be prevented. Nearly 84 percent of the respondents reported that avoiding sources of heat had reduced the frequency of their flare-ups. Seventy-four percent said they now bathe or shower in cooler water, and nearly 69 percent said they go outside less often in hot weather to avoid exacerbating their condition. Sixty-seven percent said they frequently or sometimes leave an overheated room to prevent an outbreak, and 55 percent said they had changed their exercise routine to avoid flare-ups.
“Rosacea sufferers should wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 year-round, and especially in the summer, they should minimize time outdoors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when sunlight is the strongest,” Bikowski said. He noted that a fan or chewing ice chips can effectively reduce flushing from heavy exercise or excessive indoor heat.

Did You Do Your Posture Exercise Today? – STEP 2

by Renee North, Certified Posture Exercise Professional (CPEP) and personal trainer (NASM)

The first step to strengthen your posture was discussed, in the
July 2010 issue of DERMASCOPE Magazine.

STEP 2: Do Posture Strengthening Exercises

All exercise is not created equal. Exercising with poor posture can train you to stand and move poorly. Yoga, Tai-Chi, and Pilates are all great for building body awareness and control. According to Dr. Weiniger, a smart way to exercise efficiently and get the most out of any workout is with a pre-exercise "posture break" to set your internal baseline. Before taking a walk or hitting the gym Weiniger recommends these posture strengthening exercises:

• STORK - Train yourself to stand tall while building good posture by balancing on one foot. First, stand tall with your best posture, and then keep straight as you lift your thigh so your knee is at hip height. Keep standing tall for 30 seconds on each side, focusing on keeping your body well aligned.
• WALLSTAND - Back up to a wall so your heels, buttocks, shoulders and head all lightly touch the wall while you keep everything level, relaxed and aligned – take three slow breaths, feeling your body’s best posture. Note: If you feel any areas of stress, get your posture checked by a professional.

Skin Exfoliation:

Does Pain Equal Gain?

The Science behind this Question:

by Dr. Diana Howard

Lactic acid and glycolic acid are the front-runners in the world of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliation. So, which ingredient works best to reveal a newer, fresher you? Independent research studies on AHAs have determined that:

• Glycolic acid, the smaller molecule of the two, penetrates the skin more readily than lactic acid, and as a result is more irritating to the skin.
• The activity of both AHAs is controlled by the pH of the solution: Optimum activity is a pH 3.0-3.2. Anything lower will damage and irritate skin.
• Scientific studies have demonstrated that when one compares lactic acid to glycolic acid, lactic acid stimulates cell turnover and cell renewal at a higher rate than glycolic acid and with less irritation! (Stimulating cell renewal and cell turnover rates is the immediate and long term benefit of using alpha hydroxy acids.)
• Unlike glycolic acid, lactic acid has added benefits: It hydrates the skin, increases natural barrier lipids in the epidermis and helps lighten hyperpigmentation (age spots).

So why do professionals and consumers believe glycolic acid is the preferred AHA to user? Unfortunately, people often equate irritation with efficacy. Just because glycolic acid is more irritating does not mean it is more efficacious. In this case, pain does not equal gain.

The Skin Care Expert’s View of the Question:

by Annet King

Over-exfoliation is one of the most common “skin-mishaps” professionals see among consumers today, which leads to sensitization, inflammation, accelerated aging, and an increased susceptibility to UV damage. Before you scrub, take skin condition into consideration:

• Oily/Breakout-prone skin: Choose non-abrasive hydroxy acid exfoliants gently dissolve dead cells while delivering purifying, oil-absorbing benefits. Salicylic acid, clays, sulfur, and soothing lavender and aloe are friends to your skin. Steer clear of physical scrubs!
• Sensitive skin: Choose gentle, superfine powders that activate with water. Key ingredients include brightening rice bran, phytic acid, and micro-exfoliating (milder, yet effective) fruit enzymes.
• Aging, dry, lackluster skin: Choose a warming skin polisher that helps drive age-fighting ingredients into the skin. Also look for combined physical/chemical exfoliants including lactic acid and silica with skin-shielding vitamins A, C, and E, white tea, and licorice.

Pharmaskincare® by Spa De Soleil

Pharma Nutrient products have been created for skin in particular need of hydration; exceptionally dry skin, aging skin, or skin undergoing the drying effects of menopause. The remarkable protective benefits of soy isoflavones plus grape seed extract, a substance rich in proanthocyanidin, flood the skin with moisture and nourishment. The Botanica products used in this treatment promote healthy, even-toned skin with a smooth texture that gives skin back its structural integrity. Botanica Vit Bathes the skin in a blanket of pure comfort while restoring it back to health. After your client is comfortably positioned in the facial bed and all pre-facial preparations are done, apply the following steps.

>> STEP 1
To cleanse apply Botanica Vit Complex Cleanser the skin and massage in a circular motion all over the face and neck. Remove with a moist sponge or facial cloth. Follow with Botanica Vit Complex Toner to perfect the cleansing process. Apply onto cotton and gently remove excess cleanser from the face and neck areas.

>> STEP 2
Apply Botanica Vit Complex Face Wash all over the face and neck areas in a circular motion. Remove with moist sponge or facial cloth.

>> STEP 3
Apply a few drops of Revitamine® Complex Serum onto skin. Massage gently over face and neck area for two to three minutes. Start steaming. Continue with massage for the next five minutes. Then apply Deep Invigorating Tablet Masque in Dermafix Activator Solution and leave on skin for the entire duration of steaming time.

>> STEP 4
After steaming, remove Deep invigorating Tablet Masque with a moist sponge or facial cloth. Follow with manual extraction of blackheads and whiteheads. Finish extraction session by applying Botanica Vit Complex Toner onto cotton and put over face and neck on dry skin.

>> STEP 5
Apply a few drops of Oxiana Serum onto forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Allow the serum to penetrate with gentle patting. Then apply a thin layer of the Botanica Vit Masque with facial brush to cover bare skin. Allow penetration for seven to 10 minutes.

>> STEP 6
Apply a thin layer of Dermafix Protein Gel and spread evenly on face. Followed by an application of Deep Invigorating Tablet Masque in Dermafix Activator Solution, which should be left on the skin for three to five minutes.

>> STEP 7
Apply, our unique patented formula, Retexture Healing Refining (RHR) to facial skin until deep penetration is complete.

>> STEP 8
Finally, apply the Solar SPF 30 to face, neck, and décolletage area. Do not allow the client to leave the room without application of the Solar SPF 30.

For more information please contact Spa de Soleil at 800-715-5751, www.spamdi.com, CRR# 256