Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Retinoic acid (Tretinoin)

Retinoic acid is a metabolite of vitamin A (retinol) that mediates the functions of vitamin A required for growth and development, which can effect the skin cells and make them younger and better state. Retinoic acid is the oxidized form of Vitamin A, with only partial vitamin A function.

Retinoic acid treats the following skin problems:

  • Acne
  • Aging
  • Pigment spots

The question is, if Retinoic Acid is that good, then why there isn't in every cream? The answer is simple: Retinoic Acid is very effective agent, but with many side effects. Proper use requires strict adherence to instructions provided by a doctor.

Side effects:
  • Skin dryness
  • Peeling
  • Skin redness
  • Warmth and mild tingling
  • Burning/stinging

Monday, February 27, 2012

The Truth about Collagen

Collagen is not the solution for wrinkle treatment despite what its followers may lead you to believe or the amount of attention it receives through the media. Simply understanding the skin structure and to know about collagen is proof enough.

The skin strucure:
  1. Epidermis
  2. Dermis
  3. Subcutaneous tissue/Hypodermis
What is Collagen?

It's an insoluble protetin and the main component of the connective tissue. Collagen is responsible for your skin's elasticity. Collagen appears in many places throughout the body.

The five most common types are found in:

  • Collagen I: skin, tendons, vascular ligatures, organs, bones
  • Collagen II: cartilage, vitreous humour of the eye
  • Collagen III: skin, intestines, uterus artery walls
  • Collagen IV: kidney, eye lens
  • Collagen V: cell surfaces, hair and placenta

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Natural, Organic, Bio-dynamic - What does it mean?

Just because a product says it's organic or natural, or it's in a green bottle, it doesn't mean it really is. Many companies are using the organic/natural labels for marketing purposes. Some companies even put fake labels on their products. Before you buy a product, check the ingredients- they don't lie.

So when is a product Natural?

Natural

A product is Natural if doesn't contain preservatives, it is free of any artificial dyes, perfumes and other chemical ingredients. The product's ingredients must originate from a natural source, but it's not necessarily grown according to bio standards.

Bio-dynamic

A product is Bio-dynamic if the ingredients are bio, but it also came from a farm where the farmers take into consideration to the cycle of the moon, sun, circulation of the year and a planting calendar. The farmer pays attention to the cosmic forces what effects the soil and the organisms.

To make sure if a product is bio-dynamic, look for "Demeter Certified" on the label.

Organic

Organic means that the plant is grown in soil that is free from pesticides, fertilizers or hormones that are chemically based. The ingredients come from a variety of sources: Herbs, trees, barks, flowers, oils and extracts. The entire process of product development is rigorously monitored beginning with the seed.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Product review: Nivea Body Smooth Replenishing Lotion

Read the ingredients to get to know why you should avoid Nivea Body Smooth Replenishing Lotion.

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