skincare Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Castor Oil Benefits as a Laxative and Skin Moisturizer

The AHA! Team — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 05:06:13 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – For centuries, at the first sign of illness, many parents and grandparents would immediately turn to giving their children castor oil, either topically or internally, to naturally boost immune function and speed up healing. What is castor oil used for today? As shown below, it has natural stimulant laxative properties and may be able to boost lymphatic, circulatory and immune health. It also may help remedy constipation, arthritis and more. What is castor oil? Castor oil is a non-volatile fatty oil that is derived from the seeds of the castor bean (Ricinus communis) plant, aka castor seeds. The castor oil plant belongs to the flowering spurge family called Euphorbiaceae and is mainly cultivated in Africa, South America and India (India accounts for over 90% of castor oil exports globally). It’s very thick with a color that ranges from clear to amber or somewhat green. It’s both used topically on the skin and taken by mouth (it has a mild scent and taste). Studies suggest that many of castor oil’s benefits come down to its chemical composition. It’s classified as a type of triglyceride fatty acid, and almost 90 percent of its fatty acid content is a specific and rare compound called ricinoleic acid. Ricinoleic acid is not found in many other plants or substances, making the castor plant unique since it’s a concentrated source. Aside from its primary constituent, ricinoleic acid, castor oil also contains other beneficial salts and esters that mainly act as skin-conditioning agents. Compounds found in castor can help stabilize the texture and consistency of products, which is why castor oil is used in so many cosmetics, hair and skincare treatments. Indeed, research studies have found that castor oil contains therapeutic components including fatty acids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, amino acids, terpenoids and phytosterols. These various compounds give the oil the following properties and potential health benefits: Anti-diabetic Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial Antioxidant Hepatoprotective (ability to prevent damage to the liver) Free radical scavenging Wound-healing Types Castor oil can be used in several ways: orally (taken by mouth), applied topically on the skin, applied to the hair, or massaged into the skin in the form of a castor oil pack. Remember, any oil you ingest or consume (and even the kinds you apply directly to your skin) should be of the highest quality to ensure safety and effectiveness. Where can you buy castor oil products? Ideally look for a reputable brand of cold-pressed, pure, organic castor oil at your local health food store, or online if you can’t find it in stores. Here are some of the most common types of castor oils you may find in stores: Cold-pressed castor oil — This type is produced by cold-pressing the castor bean seeds to extract their natural oil content. This results in a high quality product that is recommended for internal use. You may also want to check that the oil is pesticide-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free and free of artificial color or fragrances. Yellow castor oil — This type is made from the castor bean, usually through pressing with no heat involved, although some manufacturers use chemicals in their processing. Generally speaking, the lighter color the oil is, the “purer” the product is. Jamaican black castor oil — This oil is developed by first roasting the castor beans, which results in a dark color (and burnt smell). This is the method that is traditionally used in Jamaica. Ash found in this type results in a higher pH (alkaline) product that is believed to have more clarifying properties that may help open pores. Benefits 1. Acts as a laxative and relieve constipation Studies indicate that castor oil works like a natural, mild stimulant laxative when taken orally. It can provide constipation relief, reduce straining during defecation and enhance the feeling of complete evacuation after a bowel movement. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved castor oil for use as a laxative. Its active ingredient, ricinoleic acid, gets released into the intestine, where it helps with the process of digestion, nutrient absorption and cleansing the system. It increases movement of the muscles that push material through the intestines, helping to pass a bowel movement. One study looked at the effects of castor oil packs on elderly people experiencing constipation. The study participants were monitored for a week before, three days during and four days after the oil pack administration. Eighty percent of the individuals studied had been experiencing constipation for 10 years or longer. The researchers found that the oil packs were able to decrease constipation symptoms, most specifically straining during defecation. Consult your healthcare professional before using long-term, as castor oil may lead to complications. Also be aware that side effects of ingesting castor oil may include diarrhea and abdominal cramping. 2. Moisturizes skin Castor oil is completely natural and free of synthetic chemicals (as long as you use pure 100 percent pure oil, of course), yet it’s rich in skin-boosting ingredients like fatty acids. In particular, its main monounsaturated fatty acid is ricinoleic acid, which possesses moisturizing properties. Applying this oil to dry or irritated skin can help to discourage dryness and keep it well moisturized, since it prevents water loss. It can also be combined with select carrier oils to avoid any potential allergic reactions. Regardless, it’s a good idea to do a small skin patch test first. 3. May boost wound healing Studies indicate that castor oil can boost wound and pressure ulcer healing thanks to its moisturizing as well as antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. In particular, its main component ricinoleic acid appears to help lower skin inflammation and support skin healing. It mixes well with other ingredients like almond, olive and coconut oil, all of which have unique benefits for skin. Lab studies have shown that castor oil is effective against many types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Out of all the staphylococcal bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus is considered the most dangerous and can cause mild to serious skin infections and other concerning staph infection symptoms. 4. May help induce labor While no approved by the FDA and considered an off-label use, castor oil may help induce labor in some women. For centuries, pregnant women at full term have taken it orally to help speed up uterus contractions. According to studies, the reason castor oil can work to induce labor is due to the fact that the ricinoleic acid in the oil can activate EP3 prostanoid receptors in the uterus. A 2018 observational case control study found that castor oil use produced a higher probability of labor within 24 hours after ingesting. It noted, “Castor oil can be considered a safe non-pharmacological method for labor induction.” In addition, the full-term women study subjects (between 40 and 41 weeks) who took castor oil had a lower incidence of Caesarean section. Regardless, the overall consensus is that castor oil needs to be researched further to prove that it is safe for pregnant mothers ready to give birth. In addition, it may cause nausea among these mothers, which is another reason why most hospitals do not approve its use. Of course, consult with your healthcare professional before considering to use castor oil before giving birth. 5. May lower symptoms of arthritis and joint pain Castor oil is often used as a natural treatment for arthritis pain, joint swelling and inflammation. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties that make it an ideal massage oil that can be applied to aching joints, muscles or tissue. Observational studies have shown that topical application of ricinoleic acid (the main component of castor oil), “exerts remarkable analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.” A randomized, double-blind, comparative clinical study looked at the effects of castor oil capsules on symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Subjects were either given a castor oil capsule (0.9 milliliters) three times daily for four weeks or a capsule of diclofenac sodium (50 milligrams) for the same amount of time. Overall, they found that castor oil worked as well as conventional treatment and can be used as “an effective therapy in primary knee osteoarthritis.” Risks and side effects Reports show that this oil can be safely taken internally. When swallowed, it’s hydrolyzed in the small intestine by pancreatic enzymes, leading to the release of glycerol and ricinoleic acid, along with other beneficial metabolites. Castor oil is classified by the Food and Drug Administration as generally recognized as safe for both topical and internal use. However, drinking castor oil may still potentially cause side effects. Side effects can include abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, especially when used in large amounts. Some people experience nausea and signs of mild irritation in their gut lining when taking castor oil. That said, it’s very unlikely to cause severe reactions as long as someone is not allergic and doesn’t overdose. If you’re pregnant, you should not take castor oil to induce labor without speaking to your healthcare professional first. You should also avoid using it to relieve constipation during pregnancy. Allergic reactions to castor oil (used topically or internally) are possible, so seek emergency medical care if you believe you are having a serious allergic reaction. When using castor oil topically, it’s still best to start slowly and perform a skin patch test on a small area of your skin before applying larger amounts, and also keep it away from your eyes, inside of your nose, children and pets. If you’re currently taking medication or have any medical condition, always speak with your healthcare professional before using castor oil. Frequently asked questions How should one use castor oil as a laxative ? The dosage of castor oil taken internally depends on what you’re using it for, along with factors like your age, existing medical conditions and response to laxative-type treatments. If taking castor oil orally, a commonly recommended dose for adults (such as to relieve constipation) is 15–60 mL, taken in one single dose. This is equivalent to about one to four teaspoons once per day. Many people mix it with water or another beverage before drinking. Read package directions carefully before using castor oil or a castor oil pack kit. Be careful not to increase your dose above the recommended amount, start slowly and don’t take it for more than seven days consecutively, unless you’re told to do so by your healthcare professional. Be aware that castor oil can work for constipation relief quite fast so it’s not recommended to take it before bed. For many people, taking it causes a bowel movement to occur within two to three hours, but it can take up to six hours. How can castor oil be used for the skin? Wash your face first in warm water to open up the pores and then massage some of the oil into your face and leave it on overnight, rinsing the next morning. If leaving the oil on your face overnight causes greasiness, reduce the amount of time until you rinse it off. You can also mix one-quarter cup of castor oil and three-quarters cup virgin coconut oil (fractionated is best), then apply to your body and face. For oily skin, you may choose jojoba oil, grapeseed oil or olive oil instead. Castor oil’s anti-inflammatory properties may also soothe a sunburn. Apply castor oil mixed with coconut oil (in a 1:1 proportion) to the affected area, or try the same remedy as a natural lip balm to solve chapped or sunburnt lips. Does castor oil work for hair growth? Castor oil is a popular natural remedy for hair growth and overall hair health. Its moisturizing qualities can help hydrate the hair shaft and simultaneously increase hair flexibility while lowering hair breakage. However, thus far, there is little evidence that castor oil can stimulate hair growth or reduce hair loss. Nonetheless, it can be a moisturizer, as stated above, and may improve hair texture. To use, massage several tablespoons slightly warmed-up oil into your hair and scalp. You can try making a homemade hair mask...

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Hand Sanitizer & Skincare Products May Increase BPA Absorption Through the Skin

The AHA! Team — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 05:12:49 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Your handy hand sanitizer could increase the amount of BPA absorbed through your skin. How many of you have ever taken advantage of the free hand sanitizer that cashiers leave at the checkout counter? How many of you keep a bottle in your car or purse for a quick squirt before sitting down to a meal? While your intent may be in the right place – to kill harmful bacteria and viruses that you may come in contact with in your day-to-day life – you could suffer an unintended consequence, according to a scientific paper. Specifically, your handy hand sanitizer could increase the amount of BPA absorbed through your skin. Recent research highlights even more concerns, particularly for children. Their study reveals that chemical-based hand sanitizers pose risks such as skin irritation, hypoglycemia, and acidosis and may also contain harmful contaminants such as methanol, benzene, and acetaldehyde. These contaminants can have toxic effects through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal absorption. Using hand sanitizer makes it easier for a harmful chemical to get into your bloodstream, research shows Conventional hand sanitizer usually contains about 65-90% alcohol along with other chemicals, many of which are potentially harmful in their own right. In a paper published in PLOS One, the researchers discovered that people who used hand sanitizer and then touched receipts had significantly higher blood serum and urine levels of another harmful chemical, BPA. Specifically, hand sanitizer use was associated with a 100-fold increase in BPA absorption. Why is this so? It turns out that skin care products like hand sanitizers are explicitly designed to make the skin more permeable. So every time you pump a bit of the product into your palm, you’re potentially opening the gates to toxic chemicals … even if most (though never all) of the germs on you will be killed. Sounds like a tough trade-off. The serious problem with BPA and a few tips for keeping your hands clean without the need for hand sanitizers In case you don’t remember, BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical found in plastics and can easily leech into the products they contain – water, food, infant formula, etc. Here’s why we don’t want BPA in our bodies: Endocrine disruptors The chemical is a known endocrine disruptor, which means it mimics and/or disrupts the function of key chemical messengers in the body, including estrogen. This can lead to everything from reproductive health issues to bone health issues. In fact, animal and human research has linked BPA exposure to issues like cognitive impairments, male and female infertility, and impotence. Of course, communicable bacteria and viruses can also harm your health, and it’s well-established that healthier hands mean healthier bodies. So, what’s a health-conscious consumer to do? First, wash your hands with soap and water whenever possible, especially if your hands are visibly dirty. This tried-and-true practice is still deemed the best way to reduce the spread of germs. If you can, opt for natural soaps and skin care products that are gentle on your skin, effective, and free of harmful additives like parabens and phthalates. These additives can also disrupt hormone function or even increase the risk of cancer. And if you’re out shopping, consider asking for an emailed-only receipt. Editor’s note: The best way to remove phthalates is to sweat. Discover a way to own your own at-home personal sauna to remove unwanted toxins safely and effectively. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Newsweek.com PLOS.org NIH.gov CDC.gov To read the original article click here.

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Considering Broadband Light Therapy? What You Need to Know

The AHA! Team — Thu, 08 May 2025 22:43:57 +0000

Larissa Biggers via Duke Health – Broadband light therapy uses high-intensity light to repair a range of skin conditions from acne and rosacea to fine lines and wrinkles. But is the treatment right for you? Here, Meghrig Al-Rohil, a licensed aesthetician at Duke Eye Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, addresses common concerns about broadband light therapy including the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. What are the benefits of broadband light therapy? Broadband light therapy can make skin look clearer, firmer, more even, and more youthful. It can help improve many conditions associated with aging including hyperpigmentation (sunspots), redness, facial vessels, and loss of elasticity. It can also minimize acne, rosacea, and unwanted hair growth. How can broadband light therapy improve my skin? Targeted areas absorb high-intensity light, which stimulates collagen growth and the body’s natural healing processes. What happens during a broadband light therapy session? Your aesthetician uses a handheld wand-like device to deliver light energy to the upper layers of skin. Because the procedure involves a bright light, your eyes are covered with a protective shield. The wand is moved over the area being treated. While not painful, you may feel warmth from the light and a sensation like a rubber band popping against your skin. A session to treat the face lasts about 20 to 25 minutes, and larger areas take longer. How many broadband light therapy treatments do I need? That depends on the treatment area and the skin concern, said Al-Rohil. Treatment plans are designed specifically for each individual. For most facial treatments, she recommends three sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. How long does it take to heal after a broadband light therapy session? There is little or no downtime, and you can return to your normal activities the same day. Your skin may be slightly red for a few hours after treatment, and you should wear sunscreen. If you had broadband light therapy to treat brown spots, they will first get darker and will then lighten in about a week. How long do broadband light therapy results last? This can vary, but a good skin care regimen that includes the daily use of antioxidants and sunscreen plays a big role, explained Al-Rohil. In general, results last about 12 months. She recommends one to two broadband light sessions annually after the initial treatments to help maintain skin improvements. Is broadband light therapy safe? Yes. Before treatment, you will undergo a thorough evaluation to ensure that broadband light therapy is safe and appropriate for you, said Al-Rohil. If you have a dark skin tone (Fitzpatrick skin type VI), are pregnant, or have taken Accutane in the last six months, you should avoid broadband light therapy. Duke uses the latest broadband light therapy technology, and aestheticians work under a doctor’s supervision. Unlike laser treatments, broadband light therapy uses light to treat the skin, and no ablation (removal of the skin surface) occurs. Risks like hyperpigmentation or scarring are extremely rare. Is broadband light therapy covered by insurance? No. Broadband light therapy is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by medical insurance. Session prices vary (starting from $200 and up), depending on the service type and the area of the body. To read the original article click here.

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Capsule Solution Set to Replace Disposable Toiletry Bottles

The AHA! Team — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:13:38 +0000

Abigail Klein Leichman via Israel21c – Adding water to soap or shampoo concentrate to a reusable bottle at the point of usage would cut costs and pollution drastically. Eighty-five percent of the contents of all those plastic bottles of liquid soap, shampoo and detergent we use every day is water. Just 15% is the active ingredient that does the job we bought it to do. If the water could be added where the product is used rather than where the product is made, the package would be much smaller, lighter and cheaper. And that would lead to a cascade of environmental improvements in the manufacture, packaging, transport, storage and disposal of toiletries, cleansers and other water-based household products. The founders of Capsule Minimal have devised a revolutionary 3D-printed smart capsule containing the active ingredients. Insert the capsule into the company’s reusable metal bottle, add tap water, and the toiletry or cleaning product is ready. The two-year-old startup, which was chosen as one of 30 companies representing Israel at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai before the delegation was canceled, is seeking big-brand collaborations to bring its ingenious green solution to market. That’s insane “If you look around your home, most daily-use products are water-based: cosmetics, toiletries, paint, cleaning materials. You need a mediator to deliver active ingredients, and that’s usually water because most active ingredients are water-soluble,” says Ami Krupik, cofounder and chairman of Capsule Minimal. “We all have multiple water taps in our homes and yet we’re bringing water from thousands of miles away where the products were produced,” he says. “That’s insane. Why should you use water brought from one country to wash your hair in another country?” However, it’s not as simple to make a just-add-water shampoo as it is to make lemonade from a can of concentrate. “Most household products cannot be sold as concentrates, because they contain complex materials that must be mixed, heated and mediated in industrial plants to bring them into the water in a way that makes them usable,” Krupik explains. “There are many phases and energy investments involved in the manufacturing process. If you want to bring active ingredients directly to customers, they’d need machinery and a lot of effort. Most people aren’t able or willing to do that. We needed to enable this to happen easily without machinery.” Industrial plant in a bottle Capsule Minimal cofounder and CEO Yael Goethe, a biotechnology engineer and former R&D manager and COO of a leading clean-tech company, hit on the right formula. The technology she invented brings the industrial plant into the bottle in a physical, mechanical and chemical way. You put the active-ingredients capsule in the bottle with water, and the product makes itself, automatically activating phases including heating and mixing. The capsules will be produced in an efficient and green way and sold in a paper wrapper. “The market is very interested in our technology to solve the plastic waste problem — not just because they want to but because they have to,” Goethe tells ISRAEL21c. “There is regulation in Europe and in some parts of the United States that forces them to find a solution. Many potential strategic partners have approached us and we expect to sign collaborations because we want to be massive.” The company is building a proof-of-concept plant in northern Israel and is in talks with potential American and Israeli partners. “We don’t aim for niche products for the environmentally aware consumer,” Krupik emphasizes. “We want everyone — you and me, and our neighbors — to use it instead of the ordinary products we all use today. So we need a collaboration with a big player.” Capsule Minimal has patents and is in the process of obtaining regulatory approval for five categories of toiletries, including a variety of soaps and shampoos. “We chose to focus on the toiletries industry first, and next will be the cleaning industry,” Krupik tells ISRAEL21c. “These huge markets transport water every day in the millions of gallons.” The plastic problem Plastic pollution is at a pandemic level, and it’s not only the oil-based material itself that harms our environment. Millions of disposable plastic bottles are transported every day twice by truck, once empty and once filled with product. The heavier they are, the more fuel the trucks burns to transport them. The filled bottles are shipped by sea and stored in warehouses and finally retail stores, where they take up a lot of space that contributes to the air conditioning load. All of these steps cause greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels. Finally, when plastic bottles are disposed, they either sit in landfills forever, shed microplastics into the oceans, or get recycled in energy-intensive processes. A recent illustrative case is LEGO’s decision not to make bricks from recycled plastic bottles after projections suggested this material would ultimately leave a larger carbon footprint. In fact, Krupik and Goethe were motivated by their insider knowledge of plastic recycling. They were involved in developing new technologies for the recycling industry that decreased the amount of energy needed by more than 70%. “But the remaining 30% bothered us. We understood that recycling is not the real solution,” says Krupik. “There is always waste from everything we do, but we believe the main solution is reducing waste production.” Their innovation could significantly reduce the billions of toiletry and cleansing product bottles sold and discarded every year. A thousand of their capsules take up just one cubic meter. Holistic solution “It’s a holistic solution based in science,” says Goethe, who recalls being horrified at the sight of trucks dumping tons of landfill waste. “The reusable bottle is also an important part of this story,” she says. “The bottle is very aesthetic and practical. It opens from the bottom, so it’s very easy to clean and refill.” Capsule Minimal got its start at I4Valley Karmiel Incubator for Small Industry, which is supported by corporations such as Keter along with the Israel Innovation Authority. The company also has some private investors and recently opened a seed funding round. The current war, says Goethe, is presenting some challenges, but “we are able to work as normally as possible. We believe in the power of entrepreneurship and sustainability to make a positive impact, even — especially! — in difficult times.” For more information, click here. To read the original article click here.

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Should We Remove Warts with Duct Tape?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:04 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Duct tape beat out ten other wart treatments for cost and effectiveness, so why isn’t it standard practice? One of the “unusual, innovative, and long-forgotten remedies” noted in a dermatology journal article was the use of duct tape to cure warts. It was finally put to the test. There are all sorts of conventional therapies, from acid to cryosurgery to lasers, but most are “expensive, painful, or labor intensive,” whereas the simple application of duct tape is none of those and may even be more effective than trying to freeze off the warts. Duct tape beat out ten other wart treatments for cost and effectiveness As I discuss in my video Can You Really Remove Warts with Duct Tape?, some doctors lauded the study, noting they had been using duct tape as a “painless, yet effective, therapy for several decades,” instead of “surgery and other destructive therapies.” Said one physician, “Sometimes, when I’ve mentioned this type of therapeutic option to a patient, they will look at me as if I’ve lost my mind! When the treatment works, however, they appreciate the wisdom of my advice and my ‘minimal discomfort and fuss’ philosophy.” Other doctors were not so amused. After spending money on all sorts of fancy equipment, along comes duct tape? Studies like that “could damage the reputation of cryosurgery,” wrote one physician, who also complained that the ten-second application of liquid nitrogen used in the study was too short, so it was an unfair comparison. And, evidently, you really have to get in there and freeze until there is a blistering reaction. It’s painful, but too bad. The doctor even joked and made light of a poor child who, before each freezing treatment session, vomited out of fear of the pain! Did he have a point, though, about the ten seconds? In the trial comparing duct tape to cryotherapy, those ten-second cryotherapy treatments worked 60 percent of the time, which is actually better than the results of most cryotherapy studies that only seemed to cure about 50 percent. In fact, typical cryotherapy for warts works so poorly that, statistically, it didn’t even beat out placebo, so all of that pain may have been for nothing, though aggressive cryotherapy does seem to work better. What they should have done, wrote another doctor in response to the duct tape trial, is take a scalpel to the wart and really blister it before going back a week later and trying to cut and crater it out. Maybe even go back a third time. ”If the procedure I detailed had been followed, the resolution rate would have been closer to 90%”—but at what cost? In the duct tape trial, one patient “lost his study wart in a trampoline toe-amputation accident.” (Amputation—a 100 percent effective treatment!) But, at what cost? In this study, 85 percent of the duct tape patients were cured without any pain or tissue damage, whereas aggressive cryotherapy may require lidocaine injection nerve blocks, “taking the cry out of cryotherapy.” It can also cause permanent tissue damage. As you can see below and at 2:48 in my video, you can end up with big, necrotic, frostbite lesions. In one sense, tissue damage is the whole point of freezing warts, but you can end up causing deep burns, rupturing tendons, which can cause permanent disability, or causing extensive scarring in rare cases. Just the psychological stress of having to keep going back for such a painful procedure may ironically impair our ability to fight off the wart viruses in the first place. So, “even if the effectiveness of duct tape occlusion is shown to be merely equivalent to that of cryotherapy,” duct tape would be better. And it was shown to be even more effective than cryotherapy; in fact, duct tape may be the most effective treatment. As you can see in the graph below and at 3:25 in my video, compared to ten other wart treatments, duct tape beat them all in terms of effectiveness and cost. It was cheaper than all but the “DN” option, with DN standing for Do Nothing. Compared to the most cost-effective prescription treatments available, over-the-counter duct tape is ten times cheaper. “It is an unusual and welcome event in health care when a common ailment is proven equally amenable to an inexpensive, tolerable, and safe alternative therapy.” Hold on. If you look at the latest Cochrane review, which many consider to be the gold standard of evidence-based reviews, it acknowledges that cryotherapy “is less convenient, more painful, and also more expensive,” but despite being excited about the effectiveness of duct tape in an earlier review, in two subsequent studies, duct tape seemed to totally flop. So, should we give up on duct tape for warts, or is there another side of the story? You can find out the thrilling conclusion in Which Type of Duct Tape Is Best for Wart Removal?, the next and final video in this three-part series. This is the second video in my three-part series. If you missed the first video, check out Duct Tape and Wart Removal. Key Takeaways Conventional wart removal therapies, such as acid, cryosurgery, or lasers, can be costly and painful, but the application of duct tape is simple and may even be more effective than trying to freeze them off. Although duct tape has been considered by some to be a “painless, yet effective, therapy for several decades,” others opposed it. Typical cryotherapy for warts works so poorly that, statistically, it doesn’t even beat out placebo, though aggressive cryotherapy seems to work better. In one study, 85 percent of the patients in the duct tape group were cured without any pain or tissue damage, while aggressive cryotherapy may require lidocaine injection nerve blocks and cause permanent tissue damage. Compared to several wart treatments, duct tape beat them all in terms of effectiveness and also cost. However, duct tape seemed to flop in subsequent studies. To read the original article click here.

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Mandelic Acid Benefits for Skin Cell Turnover and Acne Reduction

AHA Publisher — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 07:00:53 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – We’re all looking for the secret ingredient that will give us a clearer, brighter and more youthful appearance. There’s no shortage of natural and synthetic ingredients in the cosmetic world, with alpha hydroxy acids like mandelic acid (MA) one of them. Mandelic acid is an exfoliant that’s used in skin peels to promote cell turnover, improve skin texture and fight acne. Unlike most acids used in skin care, MA is known to be gentler on the skin because of its larger molecular structure, so even those with sensitive skin types can use it with a greater chance of tolerability. What Is Mandelic Acid? Mandelic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that’s used as an exfoliator and tool to promote skin cell turnover. It’s derived from bitter almonds and used in cosmetic products and prescription topicals to improve acne and fight signs of aging. Like salicylic acid, glycolic acid and azelaic acid, MA is a common ingredient in skin peels, serums and masks. It’s a gentle acid that works to improve complexion, texture and elasticity. Benefits The many mandelic acid benefits come from its exfoliating properties and ability to promote skin cell turnover. Here’s a breakdown of the top reasons to use a product containing MA: 1. Exfoliates the Skin Mandelic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin and promote surface skin cell turnover. It releases skin cells, while removing buildup on the skin’s surface. This leaves you with a fresher, brighter appearance and supports overall skin health. Skin cell turnover also improves damaged skin, reduces hyperpigmentation or dark spots, and helps to reduce acne. 2. Increases Collagen Production Research indicates that exfoliants like mandelic acid work to remove existing epidermal skin structures and promote new collagen production. They also boost or balance sebumproduction and help keep the skin hydrated when it’s dry or damaged. 3. Improves Complexion and Firmness Mandelic acid helps clear away old skin cells and promote new cell growth. It also controls sebum levels and improves skin elasticity. For these reasons, it’s a great tool for better complexion, firmness and texture. A study done to evaluate the efficacy of a MA topical found that after four weeks of use, it increased skin firms by 23 percent and increased elasticity of the lower eyelid skin by 25 percent. The study authors concluded that mandelic acid is an effective topical treatment option for improving skin quality. 4. Fights Acne A 2020 study that compared the effects of salicylic acid and MA on improving acne found that both agents were equally effective, with mandelic acid having an upper hand in treating inflammatory lesions. Researchers concluded that a 45 percent mandelic acid peel was equally effective as 30 percent salicylic acid peel in mild to moderate facial acne, but the safety and tolerability of mandelic acid was better. 5. Gentle on Sensitive Skin Mandelic acid has a larger molecular structure than other AHAs that are commonly used in skin care products, making it less able to penetrate the skin deeply but allowing it to be gentler on sensitive skin. While some acids can cause skin irritation, mandelic acid peels are known to be well-tolerated and just as effective. How to Use You will find mandelic acid in skin peels, serums, masks, face washes and other skin care products. For most mandelic acid products, using them two to three times weekly is enough — or less for sensitive skin types. MA can be used in combination with most other cosmetic ingredients or products, but don’t use it with other peels or retinol to avoid adverse reactions. It’s also important not to use MA on sunburned or irritated skin. Most often, products containing MA are applied as part of a nighttime skin care routine, used after cleansing the face and before applying moisturizer. Every product is different, so follow the directions on the label, and take it slow to avoid irritation or adverse reactions. Risks and Side Effects Mandelic acid is considered to be gentler on the skin than many other AHAs, but it’s still possible that you experience sensitivity to it, so try it on a small surface area first. Some possible side effects of mandelic acid include swelling, redness, itching and irritation. It is possible to overdo it with skin care products that contain exfoliants like MA, so stick to one to three times per week ,and reduce usage if you experience adverse reactions. Mandelic vs. Glycolic Acid Glycolic acid (GA) is also an alpha hydroxy acid that’s commonly used in skin care products for its hydrating and acne-fighting effects. Like MA, it works as an exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and makes way for new ones. It also helps get rid of excess oils and buildup on the skin. You’ll find glycolic acid in face washes, toners, creams and peels. Products containing this acid are usually recommended for people with normal, oily or combination skin, but those with dry or sensitive skin may not do well with GA. Mandelic acid has a larger molecular structure than glycolic acid and other AHAs, so it’s known to be gentler on the skin. Conclusion Mandelic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid that’s used as an exfoliator and tool to promote skin cell turnover. It’s derived from bitter almonds and used in cosmetic products and prescription topicals to improve acne and fight signs of aging. Start by using products containing MA once per week in the evening, after cleansing your face. If your skin reacts well to the ingredient, you can use it two to three times weekly or as indicated on the product label. 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Homemade Lotion with Frankincense, Lavender & Peppermint Oils

AHA Publisher — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:00:37 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Did you know that almost anything you put on your skin can seep right through and into your bloodstream? Yes, that includes parabens and other dangerous chemicals in skin products. So while many of you have taken the clean eating movement seriously (and that is fantastic!), many are forgetting about the products that they are slathering on their bodies. Unfortunately, too many of these products are littered with chemicals and preservatives that head right into the bloodstream and travel throughout our bodies, wreaking havoc by causing inflammation and more. But it doesn’t have to be that way with natural skin care, including my homemade lotion for your face and body. Aging is an indication of the time moving forward and while we cannot stop time, we may be able to help reduce the signs of it through our skin. This lotion is easy to make and will soothe the skin while offering a healthy glow soon after the first application. How to Make Homemade Lotion To make this amazing homemade lotion, you can use a double-boiler or a glass heat safe bowl — you can also use a glass measuring cup — that fits inside a pan. Put the benefit-rich olive oil, beeswax and shea butter in the container you have chosen for heating over medium heat and slowly melt while stirring. If you are using a glass container and saucepan, make sure the sauce pan has enough water in it to cover about half the glass bowl. Olive oil has amazing moisturizing characteristics without being too greasy. Olive oil has been used since ancient times and it contains squalene, which is a phenolic compound that is filled with useful anti-aging antioxidants, hydrating qualities and may fight skin cancer. Beeswax is another amazing skin-healing ingredient, and it locks in moisture. Beeswax is filled with softening and emollient rich vitamin A, which can help rebuild damaged skin cells. And being comedogenic, it won’t clog pores — keeping the skin moist and blackhead free. Shea butter adds more richness to this hydrating skin-glowing lotion. With the ability to boost collagen, shea butter is a perfect ingredient to add to this blend. Once these ingredients have melted and are well blended, remove from the heat. After allowing the mixture to cool, add the essential oils. Frankincense is my go-to when it comes to skin. Not only is it an anti-aging and wrinkle-fighting ingredient, it helps heal bacteria-containing blemishes. Lavender partners right up with frankincense to help reduce acne-causing bacteria while providing useful relaxing benefits as well. And let’s not forget about peppermint oil, which travels with me wherever I go. While it can eliminate headaches in seconds by placing a drop on the forehead, it can eliminate aches from sore muscles and rejuvenate the skin. Peppermint essential oil is microbial, providing calming effects to inflamed skin such as a sunburn, eczema and psoriasis. Now you can try it out to see how you want the texture. For a creamier texture, you can use an electric mixer or hand beater for a minute or two. Once all ingredients have been well blended to the desired consistency and has cooled, place in a container. I like to use a glass mason jar, but you can also use a BPA-free plastic bottle with a pump. I like to keep my DIY lotion in the refrigerator during the warmer months to maintain consistency since the coconut oil can melt. You can decide what works best depending on where you live. I hope you enjoy this wonderful chemical-free lotion that is gentle enough to use every day! Homemade Lotion Recipe Here’s a homemade lotion for your hands, body and face. This DIY lotion is easy to make and will soothe the skin while offering a healthy glow soon after the first application. INGREDIENTS ¼ cup olive oil 3 tablespoons coconut oil 1 tablespoons beeswax 1 tablespoon shea butter 10 drops frankincense essential oil 10 drops lavender essential oil 5 drops peppermint essential oil INSTRUCTIONS Place the olive oil, shea butter, coconut oil and beeswax in a glass bowl in a pan with warm water (or you can use a double-boiler). Heat the ingredients, while stirring, until they melt. Continue to stir until well blended. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Add the essential oil. Stir again until well blended. Check the consistency. For a thinner, creamier consistency, use a hand mixer (or electric mixer) for one or two minutes. Place in your favorite container. Dark glass is best for extending shelf life Apply, as needed, to the hands, face and body, avoiding the eyes. To read the original article click here.

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Burt’s Bees Presents Clinical Data Demonstrating Proven Efficacy of Natural Skin Care

AHA Publisher — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 07:00:25 +0000

Spectrum Science via EurekAlert – “Backed by proven science, nature-based skincare regimens have the ability to reinforce the skin’s epidermal barrier, improve skin hydration and elasticity, and protect against oxidative stress.” DURHAM, N.C., October 3, 2019 – Burt’s Bees, a pioneer in natural skin care, today announced research supporting the role of efficacy-first natural regimens to defend, restore and improve skin health. The studies will be presented at the second annual Integrative Dermatology Symposium (IDS) in San Diego, California, October 3-5, 2019. These Latest Research Findings from Burt’s Bees Highlight: • Anti-aging properties of bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol and the active ingredient in the brand’s new Renewal anti-aging line. • Important role nature-based skincare products play in protecting skin and decreasing sensitivity, reinforcing nature’s innate ability to protect against skin-damaging elements in the environment. • First-of-its-kind in vivo study examining lip barrier function and clinical data highlighting benefits of a new nature-based lip treatment, underscoring the brand’s heritage in lip care. “At Burt’s Bees, we are committed to harnessing the proven power of nature-based ingredients. Notably, research announced today provides valuable insight into the effectiveness of natural retinol alternative, bakuchiol, which has been shown to be comparable to retinol in its ability to improve signs of photo-aging,” said Hemali Gunt, Ph.D., Head of Clinical and Scientific Affairs at Burt’s Bees. “The powerful anti-aging properties of this ingredient provide patients with a natural option to nurture strong and healthy-looking skin – without the frequent irritation that some patients experience with retinol products.” Burt’s Bees Posters at IDS 2019 Include: Bakuchiol Protects Against Aging by Upregulating Procollagen Type I and Increasing Collagen Type I and Elastin without the Release of Inflammatory Cytokines; Gunt H and Levy S.; Friday, Oct. 4 poster presentation from 1-1:30 p.m. PT. About the Research: The effectiveness of bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, was evaluated in vitro on production of procollagen I in an aged fibroblast model. In addition, protection against UVB induced aging was studied on collagen and elastin in MatTek Full Thickness tissues. Overall, results demonstrated anti-aging properties of bakuchiol and support its use in topical treatments as a natural alternative to retinol in prevention and/or slowing skin aging. These in vitro studies found that cells treated with test material exhibited higher procollagen type I production than untreated cells. Additionally, significant collagen Type 1 and elastin increases were observed in post UVB treated tissues similar to retinoic acid. Nature’s Defense Against Nature; Gunt H, Shi V and Draelos Z; Saturday, Oct. 5 poster presentation from 1-1:30 p.m. PT. About the Research: Clinical results from nature-based skin care regimens demonstrate the protective properties of the products to reduce the negative impact of environment on skin, including redness and sun damage, while strengthening the skin’s barrier and providing hydration for overall healthier skin. In a 4-week clinical study, female subjects with sensitive skin were given a twice-daily skincare regimen: the test group was given a nature-based regimen and the control group continued a current synthetic regimen. Results demonstrated that the nature-based skincare regimen significantly reduced skin reactivity to lactic acid, decreased sensorial symptoms of skin sensitivity, improved skin barrier through decreased TEWL and significantly decreased carbonyl proteins, an indicator of oxidative damage. A second 8-week clinical study measured the ability of nature-based facial oil to decrease oxidative stress. Results indicated the oil protected against UV-induced inflammation and decreased sunburn cell counts on the treated site. “Patients today know that both natural and man-made environmental factors can threaten their skin – but many don’t realize that nature can be equally powerful to protect and nurture the skin,” said Vivian Shi, MD, University of Arizona College of Medicine and study investigator. “Backed by proven science, nature-based skincare regimens have the ability to reinforce the skin’s epidermal barrier, improve skin hydration and elasticity, and protect against oxidative stress.” Assessing Human Lips: The Lip Barrier and Clinical Efficacy of a Nature-based Lip Treatment; Gunt H and Levy S; Thursday, Oct. 3 poster presentation from 1-1:30 p.m. PT. About the Research: Unlike other skin, there has been little research on the biophysical properties and molecular composition of the lips, despite lips serving as a key visible marker of aging. In a first-of-its-kind in vivo study, the structure of healthy female lips was examined to better understand water content and other barrier-relevant components. Water content was lowest on the surface but gradually increased when reaching the stratum granulosum border, continuing to increase at great depths. A second 2-week clinical study assessed the effects of a nature-based lip treatment at Day 3, Week 1 and Week 2. Results showed that all clinical grading parameters studied (roughness/texture, fine/dry lines, fullness/plumpness, contour/definition, and overall lip condition) were significantly improved. To read the original article click here.

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