YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT........ AND SO IS YOUR SKIN

 

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT...AND SO IS YOUR SKIN

THE GOOD

It probably won’t surprise you that foods considered healthy for your body are also beneficial for your skin. Fresh fruits and vegetables, and certain fats in fish, nuts, and seeds will go a long way towards a glowing complexion. Here’s the lowdown on the must-eat nutrients & foods to eat for healthy skin:

FRUITS AND VEGGIES

A key part of creating your own best diet for skin health is consuming enough fruit and vegetables. Fruit and veggies contain many vitamins and minerals essential in nutrition for healthy skin. Here are some of the key nutrients & what they do, along with what foods to eat for good skin:

Skin benefits of Vitamin A:

There are many Vitamin A benefits for skin, such as:

• Heals damaged skin

• Moderates oil production and moisture levels

• Improves hyperpigmentation

• Stimulates collagen production

• Prevents breakouts

• Reduces the chance of certain kinds of skin cancer.

Skin benefits of Vitamin C:

Also known as ascorbic acid, there are many vitamin c benefits for skin contained in this powerful antioxidant:

• Neutralizes free radicals

• Repairs damaged skin cells (including UV damage)

• Improves skin tone two ways: lightens hyperpigmentation and inhibits melanin production 

Red peppers: lots of Vitamin C 

Brussels sprouts: Vitamin C & antioxidants

Blueberries: Vitamin C and antioxidants

Mangoes: Vitamins A, C, and B6, which is said to reduce excess oil

Carrots: Beta carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in your liver

Tomatoes: Lycopene, an antioxidant that helps fight UV damage

Sweet potatoes (with skin on): Beta carotene, magnesium (has anti-inflammatory agents) and fibre

GOOD FATS (OILS, SEEDS, AND NUTS)

Certain fatty acids are the building blocks of our body--including our skin. Good fats also help your body absorb essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, E and K.

MONOUNDSATURATED FATS

What they do: Some monounsaturated fat benefits include helping the water level in the epidermis and supply the ceramides (fatty acid compounds) that keep skin healthy and intact.

There are many foods high in monounsaturated fat, and some excellent sources of monounsaturated fats include:

Peanut oil

Canola oil

Avocados

Most nuts

High-oleic safflower & sunflower oils.

Olive oil is the king of the monounsaturated fat family–it also contains antioxidants and modest amounts of Vitamins E and K.

Studies show that women who eat more vegetables and olive oil have better skin protection against damage from UV exposure. 

POLYUNSATURATED FATS

There are two main types of polyunsaturated fats: omega-3 and omega-6. Many people are familiar with omega 3 benefits and the many fish oil benefits for health and skin. Omega 6 benefits are less commonly spoken about, which is why we wanted to focus on it in this blog. Your skin needs these essential fatty acids to function at its best, but your body can’t produce them itself--so you need to get them from your diet through foods high in polyunsaturated fat:

OMEGA-3

What it does: Some Omega 3 and polyunsaturated fat benefits include strengthening cell membranes, fighting free radicals, and reducing inflammation.

Fatty fish & fish oil (salmon, mackerel, sardines)

Canola oil

Flax & flaxseed oil

Chia seeds

Pumpkin seeds, which are also high in zinc, an antioxidant that helps regulate the activity of skin oil glands (improving acne) and wound healing.

OMEGA-6

People generally eat enough omega-6, but here are some great sources:

Vegetable oils (safflower, soybean, sunflower, walnut, and corn oils).

Brazil nuts have omega-6 fats and lots of selenium, which protects skin from sun damage and helps preserve skin elasticity.

 

THE BAD, AND THE UGLY

SUGAR

Sweets are the enemy of good skin, though many people remain unaware of the effects of sugar on skin. When you eat sugar or refined carbohydrates, your insulin levels spike instantly, creating inflammation throughout your body. This flare-up produces enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, resulting in signs of premature ageing. Not convinced? Digested sugar also attaches to your skin’s collagen through a process called glycation. In addition to causing wrinkles and sagging skin over time, glycation can also make your acne and rosacea worse, since these conditions are caused by inflammation in the first place.

BAD FATS: TRANS FATS & SATURATED FATS

Trans fats are now banned in the U.S., so they should be pretty easy to avoid. When in doubt, a quick glance at a nutrition label will let you know.

Saturated fats are generally found in fried foods, and in these meats and animal byproducts: beef, lamb, pork, poultry with the skin on, lard, cream, butter, cheese, and any dairy products made with whole or 2% milk. No more than 5-6% of your daily calories should come from saturated fat. For example: if you need about 2,000 calories a day, no more than 120 of them should come from saturated fats--which is about 13 grams of saturated fats a day.

The effects of saturated fat on your skin can be bad if consumed in large quantities. Diets heavy in sugars, saturated fats, and meats are likely to contribute to older-looking skin. 

Of course, avoiding sugar and saturated fats at all times or at all costs is no fun, so just remember the golden rule: enjoy everything in moderation.

This article is originally posted on Proven Skincare.

 

Amazing Glutathione

Glutathione… 

• Is Your Body’s Master Antioxidant 

Glutathione is considered the master antioxidant due to its unique multifunctional characteristics as well as its ability to neutralise many types of free radicals that assault the cell. It is one of the only antioxidants that can recycle itself, again and again, to continually fight free radicals.

 

• Is The Primary Detoxifier of the Cell 

Today we are confronted by thousands of chemicals in the air we breathe, the food and water we ingest, and the materials we touch and handle. Many of these toxic chemicals enter our cells and must be eliminated to protect the cell and maintain optimum function. Glutathione is one of the cell’s first line of defence against chemicals and toxins and the primary detoxifier that can eliminate many of these toxins when it is present in optimal amounts.

 

• Is A Powerful Chelator of Heavy Metals 

Heavy metals enter our cells in the same manner as chemical toxins. Fortunately, they can be removed from the cell by a process of chelation. Glutathione is one of the cell’s most powerful chelating agents. 

• Is The Protector of the Immune Cell 

Our immune cells are designed to protect us, but what protects the immune cells? Glutathione is the protector of the immune cells and is one of how our bodies support and protect the immune system. 

• Is The Protector of Mitochondrial DNA

 The breakdown of the mitochondrial DNA accelerates ageing and increases cell death. Glutathione is the protector of the Mitochondrial DNA. The lower the glutathione level, the more vulnerable to damage this DNA becomes. 

• Is The Protector of the Nucleus of the Cell 

The nucleus of the cell regulates all cell activity and protecting it is critical to the health of the cell and its optimal function. When present in sufficient amounts, glutathione gives the nucleus the protection it needs. 

• Is Vital for Reducing Oxidative Stress 

Oxidative Stress is the most aggressive destructive force that assaults the cell. Cells manufacture several antioxidants to counter oxidative stress. Glutathione plays a primary role in neutralising many different types of free radicals and supporting our antioxidant defence system. 

• Is The Re-Utilising Agent of Ingested Antioxidants 

Antioxidants that are ingested that are not manufactured by the body, such as vitamin C or E, cannot be re-utilised by the cell after they have been spent unless they are first converted into a usable state. Glutathione is the agent that converts those antioxidants into a state that can be utilised by the cell. 

• Is The Reducing Agent for Hemoglobin, Allowing it to Transport Oxygen to Every Cell

 The purpose of haemoglobin is to carry oxygen to all living cells. However, when it is oxidised it cannot carry an oxygen molecule and must first be reduced to an acceptable state. Glutathione protects haemoglobin from oxidising agents and can also reduce the oxidised form to make this possible. 

• Is heavily studied for its many benefits 

There are over 100,000 scientific studies and articles recorded on Pub Med, the official U.S. Government library of medical research, that research the important role and function that glutathione plays in the body.

Professor Herbert Nagasawa, professor of molecular chemistry after twenty-five years of research has been able to develop a compound, that enables the cells to produce glutathione and that compound is only available in Max International.

Great products bring an amazing business opportunity. Just click www.max.com/752601 to check out the products.   

HOW TO REMOVE DARK SPOTS CAUSED BY PIMPLES

 

HOW TO REMOVE DARK SPOTS CAUSED BY PIMPLES

HOW TO TREAT DARK SPOTS CAUSED BY PIMPLES

Living with acne can feel like riding a roller coaster. You finally clear up a breakout and you're left with a dark spot or acne scar, but you're unsure how to treat dark spots caused by pimples. Your initial instinct may be to try home remedies like lemon juice, aloe vera or reach for typical skincare with aggressive chemical peels and harsh exfoliating treatments, but here is the best way to diminish dark spots or these acne scars caused by pimples, step by step:

 

HOW TO ADDRESS DARK SPOTS AND ACNE SCARS LEFTOVER FROM PIMPLES, STEP-BY-STEP

1. Be Gentle on New Dark Spots as the Skin is Still Healing

When the spot or acne mark is still red and the pimple has only just faded, your skin is very inflamed. This is no time to use any kind of over-the-counter product or acid, so if you typically use Salicylic Acid or Glycolic acid all over your face as a preventative acne treatment, avoid applying these products directly on the affected areas. Your skin is very tender and irritated and is not ready for application of exfoliating treatments. Instead, try Hydrocortisone. Using hydrocortisone for dark spots is an effective way to calm inflammation and address and soothe the red in your skin. It acts as a natural anti-inflammatory Apply this for only a period of few days, as overtime, Hydrocortisone can actually thin the skin and make it more fragile.

2. Introduce Vitamin C Once the Blemish has Healed

When the dark marks or affected areas have completely healed and are no longer irritated, it’s time to bring in the antioxidants to help get rid of dark spots. Load up on Vitamin C, especially in the morning, to prevent excess melanin from depositing and making the spot darker. Ask your dermatologist to recommend the best Vitamin C-based skincare products.

3. Use a Retinoid for Brightening the Appearance of Dark Spots

Research skincare products or, again, consult your dermatologist to recommend items that include a retinol derivative that you can use at night to help speed up the regeneration of your skin. This will help push new, healthy, bright skin to the surface.

4. Exfoliate New Dark Spots with Acids

Once your skin has fully healed, you can use exfoliating treatments twice a week. Use a gentle, chemical exfoliant to help even out your skin tone and fade dark spots and discoloration caused by pimples. Mandelic Acid and Azelaic acid are especially good for hyperpigmentation or Melasma, a condition that causes brown spots on the skin.

5. Protect Dark Spots, Acne Scars, and Melasma from the Sun

The most important step of all is to protect your acne scars from the sun. Do not start your day without sunscreen. An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. UV rays do infiltrate windows in homes, offices, and cars, so always wear SPF. Wear a wide-brimmed hat if you are going to be outside for an extended period of time. UV rays are the enemy of acne scars, dark spots, and other skin conditions. They trigger inflammation and spike melanin production, causing your dark spots and scars to become even darker and harder to fade.

 

WHAT CAUSES ACNE MARKS OR DARK SPOTS LEFT BEHIND BY PIMPLES?

The technical word for the spot left behind an acne lesion once it heals is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation or PIH. This type of pigment is different than normal dark spots because it is a result of inflammation. PIH is not specific to acne. These dark spots caused by pimples can also commonly occur as a result of razor bumps and ingrown hairs. PIH is most common in darker skin types and can last for longer than 5 years if left untreated. Keep skin hydrated when shaving or washing your face. Not only are ingrown hairs and razor bumps painful, but they will also keep returning. Use shaving products to soften and hydrate the skin and don't rush the process. Cuts on the skin also take a while to heal.

Prevent PIH Dark Spots from Forming

You may also get PIH if you pick at a blackhead or pimple. Picking at an active acne lesion or blackhead increases the likelihood of leaving behind a dark spot, which is one of the reasons why dermatologists and aestheticians caution against it. You’re better off leaving it alone and letting it heal over time, as painstaking as that can be or feel. Or, you can go to a professional like a dermatologist or licensed aesthetician to help remove it.

 

 

Relax and Stick to the Plan to Cure Dark Spots Fast

Whether you pick at your pimple or let it heal naturally, PIH may occur either way. It’s important to treat the inflammation and use antioxidants like Vitamin C to inhibit melanin production. Most importantly, use daily sun protection to prevent your spot from worsening. Even a well-healed spot can suddenly become dark if you spend too much time in the sun. We hope this post has helped inform you about how to cure dark spots caused by pimples, and how to prevent further dark spots forming.

Stick to a skincare regimen best suited to your skin.

Start a skincare routine beneficial to your specific skin type, issues and need.

Choose a cleanser, moisturizer with SPF, toner, and night cream that will address what skin needs, so you can avoid pimples, dark spots, and acne scars from starting. Do your research, listen to your skin...and to your health care provider.

This article is originally posted on Proven Skincare.

A lot happened !

 Hello, Lovelies!

A lot happened since the last time I posted, but we thank God for his many mercies.

If you're reading this, congratulations we survived!

Over the years I've undergone a lot of experiences, and have learnt and grown. This growth will be reflecting in my writings henceforth.

I have also collaborated with other companies and we shall be featuring a lot of stuffs from them.

We shall be talking high end cosmetics, supplements, and businesses.

DIY body scrub

PINK HEELS PINK TRUCK

Hi, friends! It’s a been a long time  I have posted here. So sorry for the silence.    Here is wishing you all a very rewarding year. We all know the importance of exfoliating and it's better to do it with the ingredients right in your kitchen. Got tired of my brown sugar scrub and so i decided to whip up something pretty and yummy.

Ah, isn’t it just SO pretty? I’m a total pink lover and this just made me smile big. It’s super easy to make and you can literally do it in about 3 minutes and you’re good to go. I use it on my face, body and even my lips for some gentle exfoliation. It’s even edible, if you happen to get some in your mouth while scrubbing your lips. You can pretty much go for whatever color you like or keep it plain, up to you. I like pretty things so I had to grab my food colouring and get all sorts of creative.

 #beautyasnatureintendsDIYBodyScrub

Prep time: 3 mins

Total time: 3 mins

A quick & easy do it yourself body scrub that can be made with items already in your kitchen!

Ingredients

·      Sugar

·      Coconut Oil

·      Food Colouring

·      A small container

Instructions

1.    Scoop 1 1/2 cups of sugar into a mixing bowl

2.    Use 1 drop of pink food coloring

3.    Add 3 tsps. of coconut oil

See? Easy! You can obviously leave out the food colouring and you’ll have a plain white sugar scrub. I promise, you will NOT turn pink when using this scrub, I tested it all over my face just to be sure. You can use any colour food coloring you like, these all make for great party favors! Coconut oil will help to moisturize as you gently exfoliate with the scrub but can also be swapped out for another oil you have on hand like olive, almond or argan oil. Just scoop it into the palms of your hands and go to town and rinse with warm water. I use it before I turn the shower on and still wash with my olaa black soap as per usual.

Are you a fan of DIY Body Scrub’s? Try this one out and let us know how you like it!

Too busy to make your own ? buy from Bani 

To order just call 08020924020

comments Here, or www.facebook.com/bodylab.olaanaturale 

subscribe to our bbm channel C001FD086

DIY Body Butter

DIY Body butter

You know how sometimes you see a recipe and think… oh yeah, that sounds nice… but then never actually make it. Please don’t do that with this one. This homemade body butter is just heavenly! and honestly – I think you’re going to love what it does for your skin! Don’t worry, you can get all the ingredients you need to make it here or any good health store.

A body butter is made by combining oils (liquid) with butters (solid). Example:

oils (liquid): coconut oil, almond oil, safflower oil, avocado oil.

butters (solid) : shea butter, mango butter, cocoa butter

From what I know, basically you can make your body butter with any combination, as long as the proportions are 75% solid, 25% liquid. 

Psst… Want tips and recipes like this everyday? Join our bbm channel for free www.pin.bbm.com/C001FD086‎

I chose to work with cocoa butter ( which hardens easily), coconut oil and sweet almond oil as my liquid.

Coconut Oil  is a top favourite of mine. Always use a virgin cold-pressed oil, organic is best, to make sure that all the nutrients and beneficial properties are intact. Coconut oil’s antioxidant properties protect the skin from free radical damage and because it’s so full of essential fatty acids, it also helps to build and strengthen skin-cell structures. This keeps the skin’s connective tissues strong and supple, which helps to prevent sagging and wrinkles. My skin loves it and I love that it’s easily absorbed.

Sweet Almond Oil is an emollient – in that it smoothens and softens skin more than hydrates it. It’s full of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant and great skin protector and healer. I also love that it’s easily absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. With this recipe I wanted to use light oils, otherwise it may be a bit much. On a side note – vitamin E is such a great antioxidant that it’s used as a preservative in many natural skin care recipes – so if you have vitamin E at home, a few drops in your skincare recipes helps to keep them longer.

Raw Cocoa Butter

Cocoa Butter comes from the cocoa bean. It has a distinct nutty, chocolate scent – so yes, you will smell… delicious! When I use it on my skin, my Son notices immediately!  Cocoa butter is a rich emollient, it leaves your skin buttery soft. It contains fatty acids which help to retain moisture and build elasticity and also has properties which can help ease dermatitis or rashes. And did I mention it smells like chocolate! Just like your oils, you want to choose a raw, cold-pressed butter – free of chemicals that are used in bleaching and refining.

LET’S START MAKING OUR HOMEMADE BODY BUTTER!

Cocoa Butter is solid, so you’ll need to melt it down in  a hot water bath. Depending on where you live, and if it’s cold, your coconut oil may be hard too. Melt them gently until completely liquid, before you mix in any other oils.

Once the butter is melted and is well mixed and combined with all of the oils you’ll need to then harden it in the freezer for about 20 minutes. If it’s too soft, it won’t whip up! If it’s too hard, it won’t whip up. Don’t worry about it now. Freeze it until it’s a semi-solid mush, you’ll know when it’s ready!

Now, I want to tell you something up front , this body butter is unusual in that it melts onto your skin the instant you apply it – like butter on a hot pan. Honestly, I found it to be a bit strange. The recipes that I had read don’t tell you this, so when I first used it, I thought it was greasy and that I wouldn’t like it. But then, something magical happened – my skin soaked it all in – and instead of feeling greasy, it felt velvety soft! My skin is seriously thanking me and has promised to glow and never wrinkle, if I use this everyday. I’ve happily accepted.

HOMEMADE BODY BUTTER RECIPE

Ingredients

1 cup melted cocoa butter

1/2 cup coconut oil

1/2 cup sweet almond oil

20 drops essential oil

Instructions

In a water bath, melt down your hard butters and oils until fully liquid

In a bowl, blend together the melted butters with all of the oils and set in the freezer to harden, about 20 minutes.

Once the mixture is solid again, but not too hard, whip it up using an electronic whisk, a food processor with a whisk attachment, a handheld whisk and a bit of elbow grease or your kitchen-aide (lucky!) until you have created fluffy white clouds

Spoon it into a clean jar or container. It will keep for months.

Slather it on!

The richness of this recipe makes it a great night-time lotion for me.  I’m telling you this because it’s always important to play with recipes to make it work for you – and just like cooking, the more you practise and work with your ingredients – the more you understand how they work and how to best use them.