Chemical Toxicity in Acne Treatments?

Acne treatments can contain a variety of chemical ingredients as preservatives, stabilizers, and synthetic fragrances. Despite the manufacturer?s claims, these substances may not be 100% safe. Long-term use of such chemical ingredients can result in constant low grade irritation, dehydration, and accelerated aging of the skin. Unfortunately, lack of conclusive research in the area allows skin care manufacturers to sell potentially damaging skin care solutions.

What is even more worrisome is that the harmful effects frequently extend beyond the skin. The chemical toxins can be absorbed into the body through the skin and mucous membranes. Widespread adverse effects may be seen in the gastrointestinal system, liver and the nervous system.

Synthetic chemicals in acne treatments should be avoided as they can actually exacerbate existing skin conditions. Consumers should also be aware that some of these ingredients have been found to be carcinogenic in animal studies. A quick look at the ingredients and knowledge of common toxins (listed below) will help consumers identify noxious products.

The safety panel of the cosmetic industry periodically reviews ingredients in skin care products. These chemicals are then classified into three categories: safe, safe with qualifications, and unsafe for use. Some ingredients like Disodium dimethicone copolyol sulfosuccinate, (Glyceryl distearate) have not even been assessed for safety by the panel. Products containing unevaluated substances are best avoided.

Apart from this, consumers can also refer to some excellent resources on the Internet such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website. The EWG has reviewed scientific studies and performed their own independent laboratory tests to expose health threats from skin care products sold in the United States.

The website can be found at http://www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep2/index.php. Complete information including ingredients, potential adverse effects, and safety of individual skin care brands is presented. Although it is very difficult to find a brand completely devoid of harmful substances, consumers should choose a brand with the lowest risk.

Potentially harmful chemicals found in acne treatments

Propylene glycol: This petroleum derivative is used in various cosmetics as a delivery vehicle and solvent. It acts as a penetration enhancer and allows other chemicals to penetrate deeply into the skin and can be toxic to the brain, liver and kidney. Propylene glycol may cause skin irritation, including contact dermatitis, and is also blamed for premature aging of the skin. Imidazolidinyl Urea and Diazolidinyl Urea: Both of these agents are used as a preservative in various cosmetics and can cause allergic dermatitis. They are toxic to the gastrointestinal system and release formaldehyde, a potentially toxic chemical and carcinogen. In addition, diazolidinyl urea may also cause toxicity to the central nervous system. The cosmetic industry safety panel has found it safe for use when the concentration is below 0.5%.

Benzophenone-4: This ingredient is declared safe for cosmetics use, according to the industry safety panel. However, it can cause immune reactions, in the form of itching, burning, scaling, hives, and blistering of skin, or severe respiratory reaction.

Sorbitol: Sorbitol requires a special enzyme (sorbital dehydrogenase) for its digestion. Systemically absorbed sorbitol can be rather troublesome in people without that enzyme. It may cause flatulence, diarrhea, and cramps in such individuals.

References: 1. Bergfeld W.F., Belsito D.V., Marks J.G., Andersen F.A.: Safety of ingredients used in cosmetics. J Am Acad Dermatol 2005; 52:125-32. 2. Annual Review of Cosmetic Ingredient Safety Assessments?2002/2003. International Journal of Toxicology, 24(Suppl. 1):1?102, 200.

Dr. Brarat Sharma is a physician and writer specializing in skin care conditions including acne and rosacea. Visit http://www.AcneResearchLabs.com for more information regarding acne treatments and rosacea treatments for sensitive skin.

Methods of Fasting

The best, safest and most effective method of fasting is juice fasting. Although the old classic form of fasting was a pure water fast, most of the leading authorities on fasting today agree that juice fasting is far superior to a water fast.

According to Dr. Rangar Berg, the world?famous authority on nutrition, During fasting the body burns up and excretes huge amounts of accumulated wastes. We can help this cleansing process by drinking alkaline juice instead of water while fasting... Elimination of uric acid and other inorganic acids will be accelerated. And sugars in juices will strengthen the heart ... juice fasting is, therefore, the best form of fasting.

Vitamins, minerals, enzymes and trace elements in fresh, raw vegetable and fruit juices are extremely beneficial in normalising all the body processes. They supply essential elements for the body?s own healing activity and cell renegeration and thus speeding the recovery. All juices should be prepared from fresh fruit immediately before drinking. Canned or frozen juices should not be used.

A precautionary measure which must be observed in all cases of fasting is the complete emptying of the bowels at the beginning of the fast by enema so that the patient is not bothered by gas or decomposing matter formed from the excrements remaining in the body. Enemas should be administered at least every alternate day during the fasting period. The patient should get as much fresh air as possible and should drink plain lukewarm water when thirsty. Fresh juices may be diluted with pure water. The total liquid intake should be approximately six to eight glasses.

A lot of energy is spent during the fast in the process of eliminating accumulated poisons and toxic waste materials. It is, therfore, of utmost importance that the patients gets as much physical rest and mental relaxation as possible during the fast. IN cases of fasts in which fruit juices are taken, especially when fresh grapes, oranges or grapefruit are used exclusively, the toxic wastes enter the blood -stream rapidly, resulting in an overload of toxic matter, which affects normal bodily functions. This often results in dizzy spells, followed by diarrhoea and vomiting. If this physical reaction persists, it is advisable to discontinue the fast and take cooked vegetables containing adequate roughage such as spinach and beets until the body functioning returns to normal.

The overweight person finds it much easier to go without food. Loss of weight causes no fear and the patient?s attitude makes fasting almost a pleasure. The first day?s hunger pangs are perhaps the most difficult to bear. The craving for food will, however, gradually decrease as the fast progresses. Seriously sick persons have no desire for food and fasting comes naturally to them. The simples rule is to stop eating until the appetite returns or until one feels completely well.

Only very simple exercises like short walks may be undertaken during the fast. A warm water or neutral bath may be taken during the period. Cold baths are not advisable. Sun and air baths should be taken daily. Fasting sometimes produces a state of sleeplessness which can be overcome by a warm tub bath, hot water bottles at the feet and by drinking one or two glasses of hot water.

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Is Your Bad Mood Causing Skin Breakouts?

Your skin tells a lot about you. Someone who looks at your face can often tell if you haven?t had enough rest, if you?ve been slacking on your diet, or if you moisturize regularly. Your skin can also tell someone a lot about your state of mind.

It?s pretty obvious when you?re embarrassed because your face will get flushed. That?s not what I mean. I?m referring to life?s problems that pile up, stress you out, and keep you from performing at your ultimate best. Long periods without good nutrition will make skin pale and flaky, while a lack of moisture in your body can make skin tight and pinched-looking. Late nights and stressful situations can cause breakouts, oily skin and a tired, harried appearance that can keep you from looking your best.

With our busy lifestyles, it?s hard to imagine how we can sleep more, eat better and stay hydrated enough to keep life?s problems from showing up on your face. Fortunately, you can easily combat some of these problems by carefully choosing quick ways to relax and rejuvenate your body that won?t break the bank.

Natural skincare products containing essential oils will not only help to improve your skin?s appearance, but they have a double-duty effect with their aromatherapy benefits. For example, lavender essential oil is beneficial for people with minor cuts, scrapes, rashes and mild sunburn. It is also great for relaxation, making lavender a useful tool for eliminating stress.

Another great essential oil for mood enhancement is clary sage. It helps to balance the skin?s natural production of sebum, making it a suitable choice whether your skin is too oily or too dry. At the same time, clary sage is well known for its hormone balancing effects, eliminating the mood swings and cramping that often occur during your menstrual cycle.

When you are choosing skincare products with essential oils, look for ones that contain little to no fragrance so you receive the full benefit of the aromatherapy at work. Also check the labels for chemicals which may cause allergic reactions and thwart your efforts to clear up your skin. With the right products, you?ll begin to feel better emotionally, your appearance will change for the better, and people will certainly take notice.

Burgundy Shank makes natural skincare products using essential oils and other nutrient-rich natural ingredients. To download her FREE Report, ?The Top 10 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Personal Care Products,? sign up for her newsletter, ?Beauty Secrets from Around the World? at http://www.burgundysoap.com