Skincare Science: Research about Four Skin Care Health Foods
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Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) February 19, 2008 -- Skincare is more than just chemicals and science. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Ingredients that Heal," investigates how four super-foods contribute to skin health: pomegranates, grapefruits, pumpkins, and mushrooms. While scientific advancements are surely leading to breakthrough products that heal the skin and body, sometimes, a more natural approach to healing can't be beat.
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=514
From the Romans who imported pomegranates from Libya to its presence during the Han and Sung dynasties in China, it seems that countries around the world have always agreed on one thing when it comes to the pomegranate: health and prosperity. Pomegranates are rich in potassium, fiber, vitamin C, niacin, and ellagic acid-a powerful antioxidant that is also found in green tea and red wine. However, recent studies have proven that pomegranate actually contains three times the total antioxidant potency of green tea or red wine, making it a powerful resource for both skin and whole-body health. Plus, it's more stable in skincare products than certain other antioxidants, such as vitamin C, whose antioxidant power may weaken when exposed to light or air.
Another natural ingredient that has plenty of benefits for the skin is often more associated with breakfast than skincare - the grapefruit. First documented in 1750 by the cleric Reverend Griffith Hughes in a theological discussion on Biblical fruit, grapefruit is considered one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados". Rich in citric acid (an alpha hydroxy acid), grapefruit extract is a powerful exfoliator and will loosen dead skin cells and exfoliate away dry skin, making it ideal for all skin types. Additionally, the smell of grapefruit also has some interesting properties. According to the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, research has shown that men thought women wearing grapefruit were, on average, six years younger.
Pumpkin is another ingredient with healthy benefits for the skin and body. Historically, Native Americans gave the first North American settlers pumpkins as gifts, introducing them to the various ways it could be used, and since then, the popularity of this humble gourd has only grown. Whether used as decoration, food or skincare, pumpkin is a valuable health resource. Rich in beta-carotene and vitamins A, C and E, pumpkin is actually very acidic, and chock full of enzymes. When used topically, these enzymes eat or exfoliate away dead skin cells and smooth and refine the skin. In addition, pumpkin seeds are a solid source of zinc, known to help heal acne and blemishes.
While Americans may be somewhat surprised to learn that mushrooms are rich in healing properties, dozens of other cultures around the world certainly aren't. The Japanese people have been using mushrooms in medicine since the Nara Period. In particular, the shiitake mushroom, which has been growing in the wild since prehistoric times, has played a critical role in Asian medicinal traditions for more than 6,000 years. More recently, medical research in the United States has caught on to the shiitake mushroom's numerous health benefits, with some surprising results. The shiitake mushroom hasn't only been proven to boost immunity, lower cholesterol and treat cancer, it also contains the antioxidant L-ergothioneine. Shiitake mushrooms are also chemical exfoliants and are a rich source of kojic acid; a natural skin lightener and alternative to the chemical hydroquinone.
Skincare-News.com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles:
Blackheads: Fact & Fiction
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=509
Under ideal, normal conditions, the skin produces just enough sebum to keep the skin protected and moist. However, when higher levels of oil are produced, there is a greater chance the excess sebum will become trapped in the pore, causing a blockage. Combined with dead skin cells and dirt, excess sebum in the pore will oxidize, or darken, forming a blackhead at the opening of the pore. And although they are unsightly, battling blackheads need not be an exercise in futility. With a few additions to a skincare routine, anyone can keep current blackheads at bay and prevent new ones from forming.
Top 10 Resolutions for Great Skin in 2008
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=507
The beginning of a new year signals the beginning of new things and the dreaded resolution. This year, make the realistic goal of taking care of the skin, step-by-step. Read on for 10 ways to kick off the new year with a better regimen, better products and a better, healthier look!
Don't Forget the Fiber
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=503
Surprisingly, a common culprit behind several skin concerns is a lack of dietary fiber. The American Dietetic Association recommends a daily fiber intake ranging from 20 to 35 grams, yet the average American consumes far less--only 12 to 15 grams! By incorporating more fiber into a diet, many common digestive conditions can be alleviated, some of which are thought to cause acne, rosacea, or psoriasis. Indeed, fiber is absolutely essential for the health of the skin, so grab a bowl of oatmeal or a leafy, green salad and read on.
Anti-bacterial?Good or Bad?
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=499
Its cold season, and that means germs are lurking everywhere: door handles, countertops and most especially, hands. How to combat these snarky germs? Is it really necessary to lather up every time someone sneezes, or is a fruity-scented anti-bacterial hand sanitizer the answer? Plain old soap and water has gotten a bad rap lately, but surprisingly, it is still the best, most effective step against germs and bacteria.
About SkinCare-News.com -- "Your Source for Intelligent Skin Care"
Skincare-News.com is the online source for consumers seeking intelligent beauty and skin care news, advice, tips and articles. Founded in 2005, SkinCare-News.com features articles, news items and frequently asked questions on skincare and beauty related issues. SkinCare-News.com is located in Sacramento, California, but receives visitors from all around the world. For more information, visit http://www.skincare-news.com.
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