by Jason Katzenback
The fact is that any type of skin condition can happen regardless of the pigment of skin you have. When it comes to African American skin care and others with darker complexions however, there are a few skin care problems that are much more prevalent.
Here are five of the most common African American skin care
issues…
Acne
Acne is a chronic disorder characterized by excess production of oil from sebaceous glands causing the hair follicles generally on the face, chest and back to become plugged. Pimples, papules, pustules and comedone, (black heads and white heads) cysts and infected abscesses can be treated in acne. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent. However, the disease is not restricted to any age group; adults in their 20s - even into their 40s - can get acne. In regards to African American skin care, acne may result in long lasting discolorations of the skin. Therapy is the same for all skin types but it is very important to use topical agents that minimize irritation of the
skin.
Ingrown Hairs of the Beard (Razor Bumps)
Another African American skin care issue is Ingrown Hairs. African Americans have curved hair shafts and this is true of beard hair as well as other body hair. Often after a very close shave, the pointed hair may curl back into the skin and it may pierce the wall of the hair follicle, causing a reaction resulting in bumps called "pseudofolliculitis barbae." If you can, growing a beard is a viable option for helping this.
African American men should try different methods of hair removal if they suffer with ingrown hairs, which are also called razor bumps. Shaving with a special type of safety razor that does not permit a very close shave may help. Do not stretch the skin during shaving and don't shave on a daily basis. If hairs become ingrown, lift them up with an alcohol-cleaned needle (don't tweeze or pluck) just before shaving. Sometimes using a rough washcloth before shaving can help to loosen hairs about to grow inward.
Hair removal chemicals do remove hair but should only be used once a week. They must be wiped off promptly according to package directions and wash your face twice with soap and water immediately afterwards to guard against irritation.
Permanent removal of hair performed by an experienced Electrolysis Operator may be an effective solution and there are new medicated creams that may slow hair growth and help. Be sure to consult your dermatologist about treatment options.
Variations in Skin Color
African American skin has larger melanosomes (cells that determine skin color ) and the melanosomes contain more of the pigment melanin than those found in white skin. Because of the protective effect of melanin, African-Americans are better protected against skin cancer and premature wrinkling from sun exposure.
Post inflammatory hyper pigmentation is quite common in dark skinned individuals, even after minor trauma. An area of the skin may darken after an injury such as a cut or a scrape, or after certain skin disorders such as acne. To avoid or reduce post inflammatory hyper pigmentation, avoid picking, harsh scrubbing, and abrasive treatments. Darkened areas of skin may take many months or years to fade, although topical (surface) bleaching agents may help. Also chemical peels (using alpha and beta hydroxyl acids) and microdermabrasion can be helpful.”
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a common African American skin care condition where pigment cells are destroyed and irregular white patches on the skin appear. Many dermatologists think that the cause of this common disorder is an autoimmune process, where the cells of the body attack the pigment producing cells.
The extent of color loss differs with each person; some people lose pigment over their entire bodies. Some patients with vitiligo do not regain skin color, however some cases of vitiligo do repigment. See your dermatologist as soon as possible, as the extent of the disease will determine the appropriate treatment. .
Several skin care methods are used to treat vitiligo, but none have been perfected. Topical medications, including corticosteroids and new non-steroid anti-inflammatory preparations are commonly used. In cases where vitiligo affects most of the body, it is sometimes best to destroy the remaining normal pigment. A dermatologist can determine what treatment is best based on the extent of the disease.
Keloids
When the scar from a cut or wound extends and spreads beyond the size of the original wound, it is known as a keloid. Keloids may vary in size, shape, and location. They occur more often in brown or black skin making this a very common African American skin care issue.
Keloids are a common skin care issue on the ear lobes, neck, chest, or back, and usually occur after an injury or surgery. Occasionally they occur spontaneously, especially on the mid-chest area. Keloids often follow inflammation caused by acne on the face, chest, and back.
Keloids may be painful both physically and emotionally (from a cosmetic perspective), but it's important to address keloids primarily as a medical, rather than cosmetic condition.
Depending on the location of the keloid, skin care treatment may consist of cortisone injections, pressure, silicone gels, surgery, laser treatment, or radiation therapy. Unfortunately, keloids tend to return and even enlarge, especially after treatment with surgery.
5 Cheap Tanning Lotion Tips For Summer
By: James Allen
With summer approaching, it's time to pull out the tanning lotion yet again. It's not cheap though, is it? So here are a few tips to help make your bottle of bronze stretch a little further this tanning season.
Pay attention to application. To apply tanning products most effeciently, begin working on a small area. Then, softly and in an even manner, rub in the product - but not too generously.
If you work your way out to other areas in a swirling, but still gentle and even rub, rather than going in an up-and-down direction, you will stretch your product further and still have the same level of effectiveness.
Getting to those hard to reach areas like your back may require an extra hand.
Diluting is OK. When using these lotions on more sensitive areas like your knees, feet, hands and elbows, either dilute first with a moisturizing lotion or use very small amounts when gently rubbing in.
Rubbing with a make-up sponge applicator works well for these areas, too. Doing this will help prevent build up, irritation and waste.
Remember to use sunblock too! Many tanning lotions do not contain any level of SPF protection. Remember the basics, long and light clothes and high SPF sunblock to protect your skin at the same time.
If you make an effort and follow these tips, a little bit of lotion will go a long way, so slow and steady does it.
With summer approaching, it's time to pull out the tanning lotion yet again. It's not cheap though, is it? So here are a few tips to help make your bottle of bronze stretch a little further this tanning season.
Pay attention to application. To apply tanning products most effeciently, begin working on a small area. Then, softly and in an even manner, rub in the product - but not too generously.
If you work your way out to other areas in a swirling, but still gentle and even rub, rather than going in an up-and-down direction, you will stretch your product further and still have the same level of effectiveness.
Getting to those hard to reach areas like your back may require an extra hand.
Diluting is OK. When using these lotions on more sensitive areas like your knees, feet, hands and elbows, either dilute first with a moisturizing lotion or use very small amounts when gently rubbing in.
Rubbing with a make-up sponge applicator works well for these areas, too. Doing this will help prevent build up, irritation and waste.
Remember to use sunblock too! Many tanning lotions do not contain any level of SPF protection. Remember the basics, long and light clothes and high SPF sunblock to protect your skin at the same time.
If you make an effort and follow these tips, a little bit of lotion will go a long way, so slow and steady does it.
What Exactly Is Jojoba Oil ?
What Exactly Is Jojoba Oil And Why Is It Used So Much In Skin Care Products
by Glen Jansen
Back in 1822, a small shrub was discovered in the desert near Baja California by a botanist named H. F. Link. Mr. Link named this new plant after a fellow botanist from the U.K. named T. W. Simmonds. The proper named of the Jojoba plant is Simmondsia chinensis. It wasn't until after the U.S. banned whale hunting that this plant started to be cultivated. Up until then, the oil of whales was used in skin care products and cosmetics. After the ban, much research was done to find more suitable replacements for the skin and hair care industries.
The Jojoba plant produces a bean pod and it was discovered that heating the beans caused an oil to be secreted. The desert peoples of Southern California and Mexico had long been using this oil to treat skin conditions and cuts. The Japanese did some research on Jojoba oil and found it to be nontoxic to the human skin. In addition, soon it was known the amazing properties of this oil.
Jojoba oil is actually a wax that is liquid at room temperatures. The 'oil' has similar chemical makeup to the sebum oil that our skin produces naturally. In fact, it is one of the most easily absorbed vegetable oils available today. Because of this, it was soon used to produce all kinds of hair and skin care products.
The oil is wonderful for people who suffer from sensitive skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema. It helps soften your skin and when applied to your hair will increase its shine.
It is also known to help reduce wrinkles and other lines associated with aging. In addition, it helps promote the growth of new skin cells. It even has some anti-bacterial qualities too.
Because of these amazing properties, there is no wonder it is being used in the manufacturing of all kinds of hair products, replenishing skin care products, wrinkle reduction treatments, acne control products and even cosmetics. You can find the oil for sale individually too. A 4 oz bottle can be purchased for as little as $8 and can be used to make your own moisturizing cream at home.
Take your favorite essential oil, such as lavender, and add 40 to 50 drops to a 4 oz bottle. Apply to liberally to your skin and rub until it has been absorbed.
The Jojoba plant was an important and necessary discovery. Its amazing properties help people all over the world look better, feel better about themselves and helps people who suffer from disabilitating skin conditions. If you purchase it, look for organically grown Jojoba oil and make sure it is pressed and not chemically extracted.
The Author
Taking care of your skin early is the best way to prevent aging of your skin. Our goal is to provide information and resources for you to find anti-aging skin care and wrinkle protection at any age. Visit http://www.1st-in-anti-aging-skin-care.com for more information on natural-skin-care and acne-skin-care products.
Source: ArticleCity.com
by Glen Jansen
Back in 1822, a small shrub was discovered in the desert near Baja California by a botanist named H. F. Link. Mr. Link named this new plant after a fellow botanist from the U.K. named T. W. Simmonds. The proper named of the Jojoba plant is Simmondsia chinensis. It wasn't until after the U.S. banned whale hunting that this plant started to be cultivated. Up until then, the oil of whales was used in skin care products and cosmetics. After the ban, much research was done to find more suitable replacements for the skin and hair care industries.
The Jojoba plant produces a bean pod and it was discovered that heating the beans caused an oil to be secreted. The desert peoples of Southern California and Mexico had long been using this oil to treat skin conditions and cuts. The Japanese did some research on Jojoba oil and found it to be nontoxic to the human skin. In addition, soon it was known the amazing properties of this oil.
Jojoba oil is actually a wax that is liquid at room temperatures. The 'oil' has similar chemical makeup to the sebum oil that our skin produces naturally. In fact, it is one of the most easily absorbed vegetable oils available today. Because of this, it was soon used to produce all kinds of hair and skin care products.
The oil is wonderful for people who suffer from sensitive skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema. It helps soften your skin and when applied to your hair will increase its shine.
It is also known to help reduce wrinkles and other lines associated with aging. In addition, it helps promote the growth of new skin cells. It even has some anti-bacterial qualities too.
Because of these amazing properties, there is no wonder it is being used in the manufacturing of all kinds of hair products, replenishing skin care products, wrinkle reduction treatments, acne control products and even cosmetics. You can find the oil for sale individually too. A 4 oz bottle can be purchased for as little as $8 and can be used to make your own moisturizing cream at home.
Take your favorite essential oil, such as lavender, and add 40 to 50 drops to a 4 oz bottle. Apply to liberally to your skin and rub until it has been absorbed.
The Jojoba plant was an important and necessary discovery. Its amazing properties help people all over the world look better, feel better about themselves and helps people who suffer from disabilitating skin conditions. If you purchase it, look for organically grown Jojoba oil and make sure it is pressed and not chemically extracted.
The Author
Taking care of your skin early is the best way to prevent aging of your skin. Our goal is to provide information and resources for you to find anti-aging skin care and wrinkle protection at any age. Visit http://www.1st-in-anti-aging-skin-care.com for more information on natural-skin-care and acne-skin-care products.
Source: ArticleCity.com
10 Winter Skin Savers
By Shreelata Suresh
Winter brings with it drier, rougher skin, flakiness and itchiness and chapped sore lips. Combat winter skin woes with these tips from the ancient healing tradition of ayurveda:
Drink lots of water. Internal hydration keeps skin cells plump and healthy. Water also helps transport nutrients to skin cells, keeping them nourished. According to ayurvedic healers, water should be at room temperature or slightly warm to avoid hampering digestion. Water-rich vegetables like leafy greens and green-skinned squashes are great for internal hydration as well as skin nourishment. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which are dehydrating.
Cold weather can cause the body’s systems to stagnate. Eating warm cooked foods, drinking warm water or herb/spice teas and moderate daily exercise can help improve circulation, digestion and elimination, keeping skin healthy and clear.
Heated homes, workplaces and automobiles can wreak havoc on skin. Turn heat down to the lowest level that you are comfortable with. Supplement moisture balance in your environment with the use of room humidifiers. Moisture balance in the environment also helps prevent dry nasal passages and eyes.
The rough, dry nature of Vata dosha, winter’s dominant energy, can be pacified by including some healthy fats in your daily diet. Ayurvedic healers recommend ghee (clarified butter). Olive oil is another excellent choice. Blanched, soaked almonds offer lipid support as well as nourishment.
The thought of a long, hot bath on a cold winter day can be appealing, but over-exposure to hot water can dry skin out even more. Keep baths or showers short, limit them to one per day and use lukewarm, not hot, water. If you have Vata skin, add a few drops of bath oil to your bath.
Put away that bar of soap or shower gel, and switch to a milder, gentler cleanser for both face and body. Soap can irritate and exacerbate dry skin conditions. Ayurvedic healers recommend ground oatmeal or chickpea flour mixed with a little milk. If your skin is naturally dry, add some almond meal and a few drops of aloe vera or sesame oil. Don’t scrub excessively, and dab skin with a soft towel after the bath or shower--just enough to remove excess moisture.
A good moisturizer, suitable for your skin type, is a must in winter, to keep skin lubricated. For best results, apply the moisturizer to damp skin immediately after cleansing, to help lock in surface moisture. Pay attention to knees, elbows, hands and feet, which tend to be drier than the rest of the body. If your skin is naturally oily, a light application is best to avoid clogging pores. Dry Vata skin benefits from deep-layer lipid support several times a week. Ayurvedic healers recommend facial oils blended especially for Vata skin that nourish and protect while they lubricate.
Pay extra attention to hands and feet, where skin can crack and peel when dry. Always apply moisturizer after you wash your hands. Limit exposure to water by wearing gloves when you do chores such as washing dishes. A light application of massage oil right before you go to bed can keep skin on extremities lubricated and also help you fall asleep faster. If your skin is naturally dry, soak feet in warm water for 10 minutes, then apply shea butter to heels and soles and wear socks before you go to bed.
Do not forget adequate sun protection for exposed skin, even if the sun feels milder during the winter. If you’re out on the slopes, remember that snow reflects the sunlight, doubling the damaging effect of the sun’s rays. Wear a natural lip balm to protect your lips.
Weekly exfoliation is important to remove dead skin cells and prevent skin from looking dull. But make sure you use a very gentle exfoliating product, and don’t scrub too hard or too long. Follow exfoliation with a hydrating mask.
Note: This ayurvedic information is educational, and is not intended to replac standard medical care or advice. Consult your physician before making changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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Winter brings with it drier, rougher skin, flakiness and itchiness and chapped sore lips. Combat winter skin woes with these tips from the ancient healing tradition of ayurveda:
Drink lots of water. Internal hydration keeps skin cells plump and healthy. Water also helps transport nutrients to skin cells, keeping them nourished. According to ayurvedic healers, water should be at room temperature or slightly warm to avoid hampering digestion. Water-rich vegetables like leafy greens and green-skinned squashes are great for internal hydration as well as skin nourishment. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which are dehydrating.
Cold weather can cause the body’s systems to stagnate. Eating warm cooked foods, drinking warm water or herb/spice teas and moderate daily exercise can help improve circulation, digestion and elimination, keeping skin healthy and clear.
Heated homes, workplaces and automobiles can wreak havoc on skin. Turn heat down to the lowest level that you are comfortable with. Supplement moisture balance in your environment with the use of room humidifiers. Moisture balance in the environment also helps prevent dry nasal passages and eyes.
The rough, dry nature of Vata dosha, winter’s dominant energy, can be pacified by including some healthy fats in your daily diet. Ayurvedic healers recommend ghee (clarified butter). Olive oil is another excellent choice. Blanched, soaked almonds offer lipid support as well as nourishment.
The thought of a long, hot bath on a cold winter day can be appealing, but over-exposure to hot water can dry skin out even more. Keep baths or showers short, limit them to one per day and use lukewarm, not hot, water. If you have Vata skin, add a few drops of bath oil to your bath.
Put away that bar of soap or shower gel, and switch to a milder, gentler cleanser for both face and body. Soap can irritate and exacerbate dry skin conditions. Ayurvedic healers recommend ground oatmeal or chickpea flour mixed with a little milk. If your skin is naturally dry, add some almond meal and a few drops of aloe vera or sesame oil. Don’t scrub excessively, and dab skin with a soft towel after the bath or shower--just enough to remove excess moisture.
A good moisturizer, suitable for your skin type, is a must in winter, to keep skin lubricated. For best results, apply the moisturizer to damp skin immediately after cleansing, to help lock in surface moisture. Pay attention to knees, elbows, hands and feet, which tend to be drier than the rest of the body. If your skin is naturally oily, a light application is best to avoid clogging pores. Dry Vata skin benefits from deep-layer lipid support several times a week. Ayurvedic healers recommend facial oils blended especially for Vata skin that nourish and protect while they lubricate.
Pay extra attention to hands and feet, where skin can crack and peel when dry. Always apply moisturizer after you wash your hands. Limit exposure to water by wearing gloves when you do chores such as washing dishes. A light application of massage oil right before you go to bed can keep skin on extremities lubricated and also help you fall asleep faster. If your skin is naturally dry, soak feet in warm water for 10 minutes, then apply shea butter to heels and soles and wear socks before you go to bed.
Do not forget adequate sun protection for exposed skin, even if the sun feels milder during the winter. If you’re out on the slopes, remember that snow reflects the sunlight, doubling the damaging effect of the sun’s rays. Wear a natural lip balm to protect your lips.
Weekly exfoliation is important to remove dead skin cells and prevent skin from looking dull. But make sure you use a very gentle exfoliating product, and don’t scrub too hard or too long. Follow exfoliation with a hydrating mask.
Note: This ayurvedic information is educational, and is not intended to replac standard medical care or advice. Consult your physician before making changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Real Estate Links
Real Estate Links, Properties for sale and rent in USA. Homes for sale and rent listings, real estate agents.
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