Demistyfying The Main Causes Of Acne

Monday 26th April 2010

Dealing with acne can be very stressful. Trying to figure out what causes it may be even more confusing. There may be many myths that surround this type of skin condition, and debunking these myths can help you deal with this skin condition better. There are a few major factors that contribute to the cause of irritable skin problems. These factors include: overproduction of oil in the skin, abnormal shedding that occurs with dead skin cells and the build up of bacteria.

Acne is the result of a combination oil and skin cells that are dead. These mix together inside the hair follicle. How? Well, each hair follicle is connected to a gland called a "sebaceous gland". This gland produces oils that work to lubricate the hair and skin.

Once produced the oil moves through the hair shafts and out of the hair follicles, in order to do its lubricating job. The problem occurs when excess oil is produced and then mixes with dead skin cells. This combination forms a clog under the skin's surface. This is how pimples begin to form on the surface of the skin.

The actual pimple you see on your skin is a direct result of this clog. This is because the mix of oil and dead skin cells push against the follicle wall, causing it to expand. You will then see the white head of the pimple. If the clog is exposed to open air and bacteria, a blackhead is formed.

If the clog happens deep in the hair follicle, as opposed to beneath the skin's surface a lump often will form. This lump is known as a cyst. This will show up on the skin often as a red bump, and does not have a white head. If you are wondering how sweat glands impact this skin condition, they typically do not contribute to the acne problem.

The factors which cause the increased production of oil in the body are not yet known. However, there are a few possibilities. These possibilities may include, but are not limited to: hormonal imbalance, genes, bacteria and the side-effects of some medications.

Often, people will wrongly assume that acne is the result of poor hygiene, which is not the case. In reality, too much cleaning of the face with soaps can irritate the skin and cause a batch of other skin problems. Normal washing of the face with gentle soap is helpful for skin maintenance. If you continuously feel stressed about your skin condition, consult a doctor.
Author Resource:- Acne scarring can be devastating to someone who just wants clear, blemish free skin. But there are many options for treatment available to individuals suffering from it. People who have money tend to try laser acne treatment to help them remove acne scars. Be informed - check out all the free information you'll need at our website.

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Spring Cleaning For Mind, Body And Soul

Thursday 22nd April 2010

With spring in the air it is easy to feel more positive about the world in general. It is amazing what a bit of sunshine and warmth can do for your outlook. Many people do some form of spring cleaning around their home at this time of year. It is pleasant to be able to throw open the windows and let the fresh air into our homes.

With this kind of positive outlook, perhaps it is also a good time to do some spring cleaning in other areas of our lives as well. Getting rid of old habits, old hurts and old troubles can have the same kind of renewing effect on our lives as cleaning out your home has on your environment. Everything will feel fresh and your mind will be more focused and you will have much more clarity in your goals and expectations of life.

Getting rid of old habits:
We all have things we would like to improve about ourselves. Whether it is health related, such as quitting smoking or losing weight; or it might be a different kind of habit, such as allowing people to take advantage of your good nature. Whatever your habit, set a plan to make a change. With bolstered spirits at this time of year, you have a greater chance of success.

Getting rid of old hurts:
This time of year is a good time to address old issues with the people in your life. Pick one relationship in your life and make a plan to make it better. Even if the hurt does not go away, you can make a plan for forgiveness. Understand that the other person may not be at the same place mentally or emotionally as you are. If that is the case, then all you need do is to tell that person, "I forgive you", and move on. It is amazing how uplifting those words can be if you say it with conviction and truly mean that you are leaving those hurts in the past.

Getting rid of old troubles:
Whether it is money troubles, work troubles or relationship troubles, it is time to take action and create change. Troubles do not just disappear on their own. If you have a problem that just won't go away, now is the perfect time to put a plan into effect that will remove that trouble from your life. Just taking action can make all the difference in your life.

So as you are doing your spring cleaning around your home, start thinking about other areas that need cleaning up so you can have the summer of your life! Start each day with a prayer of thanks. Spring is the renewal of life and you should use this opportunity to renew your faith in God and in life.

We believe that everyone can succeed with the proper support!
Smith-Brumfield Training & Consulting Group, LLC is committed to supporting individuals and organizations in their efforts to achieve optimum success in their personal, professional and organizational endeavors. We provide personalized coaching and practical, relevant and interactive presentations in the areas of Christian Leadership and Development, Women's Issues, Cultural Awareness and Career, Transition and Scholarship Coaching
http://www.smithbrumfieldgroup.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donna_Smith_Brumfield

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Can You Ever Eat Too Much Protein?

Wednesday 24th February 2010

Everywhere I turn it seems more and more people are ditching a good balanced diet and replacing it with one that is low in carbs and high in protein.

While there are advantages to consuming protein, such as a decreased sense of feeling hungry and the stabilising of blood sugar levels, eating too much protein can have a negative effect on the body. In this blog post we are going to find out exactly what eating excessive amounts of protein is doing to your body and exactly how much protein you should be eating.

Surprisingly the average non vegetarian person consumes a diet which exceeds the RDA (recommended daily amount) of protein. This is particularly true for athletes, body builders and weight lifters who often consume up to five times the RDA of protein.

According to recent studies there are consequences to eating too much protein, and when I say too much, I mean more than 25% above the RDA.

Firstly there is an increased stress on the kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for filtering out the proteins we consume and it has been suggested that those who already have a mild kidney problem, could have that problem inflated if they were following a high protein diet. Another thing to remember is that a high protein diet can also lead to dehydration, so if you are following a high protein diet plan, remember to help your kidneys by drinking lots and lots of water.

Studies have also shown that older women who eat large amount of protein tend to have a higher rate of bone density loss than those who don't. This happens because too much protein results in the excess amino acids being converted into organic acids. When the body processes these organic acids it does so by pushing out calcium into the urine, the calcium that is needed to maintain good bone health.

Consuming levels of protein beyond a certain amount probably won't give you any additional benefit unless your aim is to build large muscles via bodybuilding and weight training.

To calculate a suggested daily intake of protein for yourself all you have to do is grab a calculator input your body weight (in pounds) and multiply that by 0.37. To promote overall better health and reduce your risk of disease and illness, decrease the amount of protein you get from animal sources and add more vegetable sources of protein such as beans, lentils, and nuts. This is also a good general recipe for better health and longevity.

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to visit The Beauty Factor again soon!

Image: Suat Eman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Something For The Weekend 15

Friday 8th January 2010

Guess what the number one new years resolution is...okay I will tell you, it's quitting smoking.

The truth is, almost 80% of people who say they are going to quit the habit this year will have already given in to their cravings, and a few more will follow suit over the next couple of days.

There are literally hundreds of different quit smoking aids on the market today, you can get anything from patches to prescribed pills and all have their own side effects.

So what if I were to show you a herbal product that does not to have any side effects and would help you to suppress your cravings rather than wean you off gradually?

Smoke Deter will help you fight nicotine withdrawal symptoms easily and effectively without any side effects at all, and if you visit the Smoke Deter website you can take advantage of their limited time free offer.


Website Of The Week


www.MagicFreebiesUK.co.uk

We all like something for nothing right? Well this website is an excellent place to find all of those online freebies and giveaways. Right now you can get yourself anything from free Sim cards, free health care samples, free Amazon vouchers, a healthy eating recipe book and so much more.

So if Free is your favorite word, take the time this weekend to visit www.MagicFreebiesUK.co.uk and bag yourself something for nothing.

Well that is all from me this week. Have a good weekend and I hope to see you again on Monday.

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Getting Motivated

Wednesday 6th December 2010

If your new years resolution is to get active but you just can't seem to shift yourself from the sofa then this may just be the article for you.

We all know how important exercise is. It burns fat, gets the body working properly and can do no end of good for your mental health. Starting a new exercise routine can be challenging, and many people find it hard to fit a regular work out session into their busy lives.

The key to finding your enthusiasm and motivation to become more physically active is within the activity you choose and the location in which you do it.

If you feel more comfortable exercising alone then don't buy an expensive gym membership. Perhaps you could buy a couple of inexpensive pieces of gym equipment and set up a mini home gym in your spare room or garage. On the opposite end of the spectrum, perhaps you like being in the company of others while you keep fit. If that is the case, why not consider joining a local team that play a sport you like: It could be anything from badminton to rugby.

The most important factor is that you actually like what you are doing. It's no good spending your time in a pool if you don't like swimming, that is when exercise will become a chore and you will be more likely to quit.

Personally I like to do my work outs in the privacy of my own home. I have an air walker, stepper and gym ball as well as an excellent yoga DVD which I admit, is getting a little dusty.

That's all from me today. It's good to be back, and I will be back here again tomorrow so I hope you will be too.

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The Mediterranean Diet

Wednesday 16^th December 2009

The Mediterranean diet has long been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, problems with circulation, and all round good health. The diet, based on the style of eating in Southern European countries such as Spain and Italy, is defined by plentiful amounts of olive oil, more fish than meat, a low intake of dairy produce and lots of fruit and vegetables. Unusually, the Mediterranean diet also encourages the drinking of alcohol (red wine) in moderation.

Research scientists are not quite sure why the Mediterranean style of eating is linked to the afore mentioned health benefits, but one reason is thought to be the low levels of saturated fats it contains. Saturated fats are found in produce such as butter, cheese and red meat. Secondly the diet also has higher levels of mono unsaturated fatty acids(found) In olive oil and the fatty acids that are also abundant in certain types of fish.

It is know that the Mediterranean countries have lower rates of depression and suicide than those in northern Europe and some studies have suggested that the diet also has links with this. More recently researchers have found that those who's diets were strongly associated with the Mediterranean way of eating were less likely to be diagnosed with depression or anxiety related disorders.

The results of this research has concluded that the amount of fruit, vegetables and legumes, as well as the types of oils and fats that are consumed does in fact have links to lower rates of depression. Although they have reasoned that the overall effects of the diet may be more important than singling out individual foods or food groups.

If you are wanting to change your current diet to mimic that of the Mediterranean style then here are the things that you are going to need to change.

• Maximise your intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grain cereals

• Limit your red meat intake and replace it with fish and poultry

• Use olive oil instead of butter or lard

• Limit your intake of processed and 'fast food'

• Eat only moderate amounts of dairy and use low fat versions wherever possible

• Snack on fruit, (including dried) fruit and unsalted nuts

• Never add salt to your food at the table. There's already plenty.

• Drink red wine during your meals, but no more than two small glasses per day

• Drink more water, at least six glasses a day.

The Mediterranean diet incorporates the intake of health promoting ingredients while minimising those ingredients that are though to be bad for you. Those who adopt the Mediterranean style of eating are less likely to suffer illness and disease than those who do not.

Research has shown an exceptional reduction in risks of premature death, cardiovascular disease, cancer and chronic conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, arthritis and type 2 diabetes.

Adoption of the Mediterranean diet has also proven to be a successful strategy in the battle against weight loss.

If you click on the image at the top of this page you will see an enlarged version of the Mediterranean Diet Pyramid which shows you how often food groups in this specific diet should be consumed.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask them!

See you again tomorrow.

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Causes Of Nail Fungus

Wednesday 9th December 2009

Following my post on Monday about nails and health, I received an email from a reader asking what the causes of nail fungus were and if I knew of any treatments for the condition.

Here is an answer to those questions, so Wendy this is for you and thanks for getting in touch.

Fungi are microscopic organisms that don't need sunlight to survive. Some fungi have beneficial uses, while others cause illness and infection.

Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections. All of these microscopic organisms live in warm, moist environments, including swimming pools and showers. They can invade your skin through tiny invisible cuts or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed. They cause problems only if your nails are continually exposed to warmth and moisture — conditions perfect for the growth and spread of fungi.

Infection with nail fungus occurs more in toenails than in fingernails because toenails are often confined in a dark, warm, moist environment inside your shoes — where fungi can thrive. Another reason may be the diminished blood circulation to the toes as compared with the fingers, which makes it harder for your body's immune system to detect and eliminate the infection.

Nail Fungus Complications

Nail fungal infections can be painful and may cause permanent damage to your nails. They may also lead to other serious infections that can spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions.

Fungal infections of the nail pose the most serious health risk for people with diabetes and for those with weakened immune systems, such as people with leukemia or those who've had an organ transplant.

If you have diabetes, your blood circulation and the nerve supply to your feet can become impaired. Therefore, any relatively minor injury to your feet — including a nail fungal infection — can lead to a more serious complication, requiring timely medical care. See your doctor immediately if you suspect nail fungus.

As for treatments, I have done a little research and have found one product which has had rave reviews recently; a natural solution for healthier nails for more information on this product you can visit: http://www.zetaclear.com

That's everything from me today. thank you all for stopping by, as usual please feel free to leave your comments or drop me an email fay@beautyfactor.net.

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What Your Nails Say About Your Health

Monday 7th December 2009

Most of us are already aware that our nails can hold vital clues about the state of our overall health, but most of us don't know what our nails are trying to tell us. Ripples and bumps, white specks, and a change in colour may all be signs of disease in the body. Keep reading to find out what your nails say about your health.

Pale Nails are often a sign associated with aging, but can also be a sign of illnesses such as Anemia, Diabetes, Liver disease or Malnutrition.

White Nails are often a sign of liver problems.

Yellow Nails are often a sign of a fungal infection. As the infection worsens the nail bed may retract and nails may thicken and begin to crumble.

Blue Nails or nails with a slight tint of blue about them show a lack of oxygen. This could be an indication of lung problems.

Rippled Nails If the surface of the nails is pitted or rippled this could be a sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis.

Brittle Nails that are dry and crack have been linked with thyroid disease. If the nails are brittle but with a hint of yellow then you may have a fungal disease.

Puffy Nail Fold If the area around the nail is red and swollen, then this is known as inflammation of the nail fold. It could be the result of lupus or another connective tissue disorder.

Dark Lines should be look at instantly by a medical professional as they are sometimes caused by melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer.

Bitten Nails Gnawing at your nails may be nothing but a habit but in some cases it can be a sign of anxiety or obsessive compulsive disorders that may benefit from treatment.

Although we all have nails that change throughout our lives it may not necessarily mean we have one or more of the above health conditions, and of course we have to take into consideration other symptoms too. All in all, many nail abnormalities are not dangerous and are quite harmless.

If you want to see the series of photographs that accompany this article then you can do so by clicking here

See you again tomorrow with another guest blogger post!

Photo by thesun.co.uk

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Painful Sex : A Common Female Health Problem

Tuesday 10th November 2009

Painful sex? What you should know if it hurts, and how to fire your doctor if he says, "it's all in your head."

*What is one of the biggest issues facing women's sexual health

Pain with sex is a major health problem for women. The incidence is about 8 percent (anywhere between 3 percent and 15 percent depending on the study). This about the same incidence of asthma, so it is a common problem. It affects sexual fulfilment, can contribute to relationship issues, and affect a woman's self-esteem.

*I had no idea it is so common

Sadly many women suffer in silence. Our culture is filled with misperceptions and taboos concerning women's sexuality. My own mother can't tell people that I am gynecologist because it "isn't nice". Many women mistakenly believe that pain with sex is normal, that it is supposed to hurt. Some don't have the courage to broach the subject and sadly many who do speak up are dismissed by their physicians. Some are told it is "all in your head" or "have a glass of wine before" and others are misdiagnosed with chronic yeast infections.

Men have all those erectile dysfunction ads on Tv to raise awareness, but there are no ads on TV to raise awareness for women. The only TV character to ever have pain with sex was Charlotte from Sex in the City, and I think that was a brief secondary storyline. If no one talks about it, you think you are the only one.

*What are the causes

Dyspareunia, which is the medical term for painful sex has many causes. You have to think about the anatomical structures that are involved in sex. For some women it is a lubrication issue. This is more common among post menopausal women as many choose not to take hormones. Another common cause is nerve pain, a condition called vulvodynia is common. Typically the pain is more insertional. The pelvic muscles can also be involved. These muscles wrap around the vagina and can cause severe pain both with insertion and deeper penetration. Bladder inflammation, skin conditions, and even endometriosis ( a condition where the lining of the uterus grows in abnormal locations) can also cause painful sex.

* What should a woman do if she is experiencing painful sex

The first thing is to understand that pain with sex is not normal. See your doctor. Think about what makes it hurt and about any other pain you may have in the area that is not sexually related (like pain emptying your bladder). Pay attention to your menstrual cycle and see if there is any relationship. This is all helpful information. Tell your doctor if you have pain other times as well (like from your clothes touching your skin).

Insist on a diagnosis or referral to someone who can give you a diagnosis. Most of the conditions that cause pain with sex are diagnosed by history and by exam. If a skin condition is suspected a biopsy may be needed.

*Can you give us some starting points for at home

Besides thinking about when it hurts and other pains in the pelvic area, stop removing pubic hair. It is there for a reason, It protects the delicate genital skin and the process of removing hair, no matter the method, is irritating. Stop putting soaps on the vulva. I tell patients the vulva is like a self-cleaning oven, chemicals are actually damaging and strip away the natural oils. Plant based or botanical isn't any safer. Tea tree oil for example can cause skin reactions and sensitive your skin making it more vulnerable.

Use a silicone based lubricant. If that is irritating you can even use olive oil. Consider using all cotton menstrual pads.

And don't be afraid to speak up. Having a good sex life is your right. Practice what you are going to say to your doctor in the mirror before your appointment. Get comfortable saying it. You should be able to tell your doctor anything and everything and they in return should listen and help you.

Thank you to Shelly from http://y-we-sex.blogspot.com for this brilliant post.

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The Negative Impact Of Soy On Estrogen Production

Tuesday 13th October 2009

In the last few years, soy has become a very popular food additive / alternative. There have been some questionable marketing ploys that range from misleading to outright lies.

We all know that high levels of estrogen in your system increases the storage of body fat as well as increases the subcutaneous water retention, so the soy you are eating to lose fat is actually making you fatter!

The soy isoflavone genistein and daidzein are similar to 17-beta estradiols and are weak estrogens.

Although these isoflavones are weak estrogens, people who eat a lot of it can have their blood level of isoflavones as much as 10,000 times greater than those who do not consume soy.

Over time, high concentrations of isoflavones in the body can have a signinficant cumulative estrogenic and toxic effect especially when they are exposed to organs that have sensitive estrogen receptors such as the breast, uterus, and thyroid.

Consuming too much soy can not only cause adverse fat storage and additional water retention making you look fat, but also causes decreased thyroid production.

Here is another article written by an MD that also talks about the negative effects of soy.

Please feel free to visit our health and fitness forums to discuss any health and fitness questions.

Written By guest blogger Curtis McCoy, President befit4free.com and befit4free.net

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Something For The Weekend 4

Friday 9th October 2009

This week we are carrying on the trend of bringing you some amazingly priced products that everyone must have.

Today we are recommending the fantastic 'It Works' Balm - 65g from The Health Store.

'It Works' is a fabulous natural homemade ointment that alleviates the discomfort of herpes, cold sores, chicken pox, shingles and more.

'It Works' Balm contains anti-viral extracts that soothe and support sensitive herpes ailments.

The native Kawakawa and St Johns Wort is used for the neuralgic pain that comes with this condition. Harakeke root and Koromiko works on the inflammation and sores while Calendula encourages healthy cellular growth.

Use it for itches, shingles, cold sores, neuralgia, genital herpes and chicken pox.

With it's soothing and nourishing ingredients, Olive Oil, Beeswax, (to name two) this product has a 2 year shelf life and can be used on all of the family.

Website Of The Week

If you are looking for friendship, fun, flirting or something more serious, then why not visit the Singles Network Website and create your FREE account today.

With a global database of singles, this network has to be one of the worlds largest dating sites. With lots of great features to help you find that special someone.

That's all from me this week.


Have a great weekend and I will see you again on Monday for some more health and beauty fun!


Ciao!

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Diet Review : eDiets.com

Thursday 8th October 2009

The premier online diet, fitness, and healthy living destination. eDiets.com offers customizable popular diet and fitness plans that feature innovative motivational and support tools. By offering a wide variety of diet plans, eDiets.com has something for everyone

The results are in, and the critics agree that eDiets.com is the best! In addition to earning Forbes magazine's Best of the Web award for the diet & nutrition category in both 2004 and 2005, eDiets.com also won PC Magazine's Editor's Choice award in 2004 and 2005. More recently, eDiets.com's meal delivery service, Deliciously Yours, was acknowledged by the premier award-winning food website, Epicurious.com, as the best meal delivery service.

Judged on flavor, nutrition, portion size, convenience, variety, and customer service & support tools, Deliciously Yours earned 3 out of 4 stars and blew the competition away!

eDiets.com features the eDiets.com Weight Loss Plan, the Glycemic Impact Diet, the New Mediterranean Diet, and many more. Also offering 11 different Healthy Living programs for those with special needs, including the Living with Diabetes Plan, and the Heart Smart Plan.

Since 1997, eDiets.com has offered over 2 million members professional diet and fitness advice, information, services and products to help improve the overall health and longevity of its members.

All in all, this diet programme has lots to offer it's customers. Unlike many exisitng diet regimes eDiets.com is not a 'one plan suits all' service.

We give the plan a whopping 9/10.

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The First Bit

Monday 14th September 2009

Hello and welcome to the Beauty Factor blog, your number one health, beauty and wellness resource on the web.

It's no secret that we all want to look and feel great, but with so much information out there it can be difficult to distinguish between fact and 'sales pitch' fiction. Here at The Beauty Factor we hope to dispel some of those beauty myths and set you on the right track to becoming a better, healthier and more confident you.

Packed with beauty hints and tips, recipes for home made products, diet and nutritional advice, how to articles, product reviews, alternative therapies and discussions about general and specific health care issues, The Beauty Factor is your complete on line guide to sensible health and well being.

Consider this small portion of cyberspace as your space too. Please feel free to leave your comments and suggestions. Feedback is always a great way to find out if we are doing our job well, so if you like what you see let us know about it.

The Beauty Factor staff just love a curious mind, so if you have any questions relating to one of our posts, don't hesitate to ask it. Alternatively if you have any health or beauty dilemmas of your own and would like our help, please get in touch and we will endeavour to assist wherever we can.

So, that just about concludes our short introduction. Enjoy the blog, participate where you can, but most of all enjoy the journey to finding a healthier, well informed and more beautiful you.

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