PREPARE YOUR BODY FOR PREGNANCY, GIVE YOUR BABY THE BEST START: CHOOSE THE RIGHT PRENATAL VITAMIN

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Medical Contribution: Stephen J. Greenhouse, M.D.

Waiting until you’re pregnant to start taking a prenatal vitamin is common but not advised. Many women don’t have their first prenatal appointment with their doctor or start thinking about a prenatal vitamin until they are already 8 weeks pregnant. By this time, the most critical organs in the fetus, such as the heart, the brain, and the spinal cord have already been developed. Therefore, in order for a prenatal vitamin to have maximum impact, we tell our patients, if you are of reproductive age and having unprotected intercourse, you should take a daily prenatal supplement that includes a range of vitamins.

When you’re pregnant, your body needs a variety of vitamins and minerals to support a healthy baby. Of course, we recommend a balanced diet, but when pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and food cravings prevent you from making healthy food choices, a prenatal vitamin can help bridge the gap. Dr. Stephen Greenhouse of Shady Grove Fertility’s Fair Oaks, VA, location discuss the key ingredients to look for in a prenatal vitamin in the online article medhelp.org and why these nutrients are so important to maximizing the health of the pregnancy and the baby.

FOLIC ACID

This B-vitamin (B9) protects the baby’s neural tube, which becomes the brain and the spine. Folate is actually found in many foods that we eat such as beans, dark leafy greens, and citrus. This vitamin is most important in the first few weeks of conception and even before you know that you’re pregnant.  Because this is an essential vitamin, it’s recommended that women of childbearing age take vitamins regularly. Dr. Stephen Greenhouse says, “Women who take folic acid supplements have an up to 80% reduction in neural tube defects.” The U.S. Preventative Task Force recommends 400 to 800 mcg of folic acid a day.

CALCIUM

“We’ve learned in grade school that calcium is good for your bones, but what you might not know is that it may also reduce the risk of preeclampsia or high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can lead to complications,” says Dr. Stephen Greenhouse. Most prenatal vitamins have a majority of your daily calcium, but not all. The rest of your calcium should come from foods that contain dairy, soy, almonds, and dark leafy greens. It’s recommended to have at least three servings of calcium-rich food each day and to look for prenatal vitamins that contain 1,200 to 1,500 mg of calcium.

IRON

Iron is needed to support your increased blood level supply as well as your baby’s. An iron supplement can protect against anemia, which can lead to increased fatigue and pregnancy complications. “Prenatal supplements with iron can be especially important for vegetarian moms-to-be since meat is one of the most concentrated sources,” says Greenhouse. It’s recommended to have a 30 mg of elemental iron per day.

VITAMIN C

We think of vitamin C as the ingredient to stock up on when we are sick or feeling sick, but for pregnancy, this vitamin is important for tissue growth and still plays a role in your immunity. This vitamin is extremely important for pregnant women as it enhances the absorption of iron. The recommended daily dosage is 80 to 85 mg.

VITAMIN D

This vitamin is found in fortified dairy products and fish. Vitamin D is so important because it is linked to building a strong immune system as well as increasing calcium absorption and bone health. Previous fertility studies have shown that women with normal vitamin D levels have higher rates of implantation as compared with women whose levels are low. If you are overweight, have dark skin, or limited sun exposure, you may be at risk for deficiency. “Ask your doctor to check your vitamin D levels, as prenatal vitamins don’t have enough dosage to help women with deficiency,” advises Greenhouse.

DHA

Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are important for fetal brain development during pregnancy, so many of the prenatal vitamins include them. The recommended dosage is between 100 to 300 mcg per day. Eating foods with omega-3 like fish, walnut, flax seeds, and canola oil are equally as important.

IODINE

A 2014 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that 1/3 of pregnant women don’t get enough iodine in their diet. Iodine is important in helping your body produce thyroid hormones that are critical for a baby’s brain development. Choose a prenatal vitamin with 150 mcg iodine during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

WHAT IF I HAVE SIDE EFFECTS TAKING A PRENATAL VITAMIN?

It is not uncommon for people to have some trouble tolerating prenatal vitamins. Dr. Greenhouse provides tips for taking the vitamins to prevent any side effects.

• Nausea: Instead of taking the vitamin in the morning, try taking it after dinner closer to bedtime.
• Too big to swallow: Find a chewable prenatal vitamin over the counter or get a prescription from your doctor.
• Constipation: Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-filled vegetables and whole grains—this should help get things moving.
• Diarrhea: Some prenatal vitamins contain polyethylene glycol —a laxative ingredient to balance out constipation side effects. If you have a sensitive stomach, this may not be the right prenatal vitamin for you. Read the prenatal vitamin labels carefully.

Medical Contribution: Stephen J. Greenhouse, M.D.

Waiting until you’re pregnant to start taking a prenatal vitamin is common but not advised. Many women don’t have their first prenatal appointment with their doctor or start thinking about a prenatal vitamin until they are already 8 weeks pregnant. By this time, the most critical organs in the fetus, such as the heart, the brain, and the spinal cord have already been developed. Therefore, in order for a prenatal vitamin to have maximum impact, we tell our patients, if you are of reproductive age and having unprotected intercourse, you should take a daily prenatal supplement that includes a range of vitamins.

When you’re pregnant, your body needs a variety of vitamins and minerals to support a healthy baby. Of course, we recommend a balanced diet, but when pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and food cravings prevent you from making healthy food choices, a prenatal vitamin can help bridge the gap. Dr. Stephen Greenhouse of Shady Grove Fertility’s Fair Oaks, VA, location discuss the key ingredients to look for in a prenatal vitamin in the online article medhelp.org and why these nutrients are so important to maximizing the health of the pregnancy and the baby.

FOLIC ACID

This B-vitamin (B9) protects the baby’s neural tube, which becomes the brain and the spine. Folate is actually found in many foods that we eat such as beans, dark leafy greens, and citrus. This vitamin is most important in the first few weeks of conception and even before you know that you’re pregnant.  Because this is an essential vitamin, it’s recommended that women of childbearing age take vitamins regularly. Dr. Stephen Greenhouse says, “Women who take folic acid supplements have an up to 80% reduction in neural tube defects.” The U.S. Preventative Task Force recommends 400 to 800 mcg of folic acid a day.

CALCIUM

“We’ve learned in grade school that calcium is good for your bones, but what you might not know is that it may also reduce the risk of preeclampsia or high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can lead to complications,” says Dr. Stephen Greenhouse. Most prenatal vitamins have a majority of your daily calcium, but not all. The rest of your calcium should come from foods that contain dairy, soy, almonds, and dark leafy greens. It’s recommended to have at least three servings of calcium-rich food each day and to look for prenatal vitamins that contain 1,200 to 1,500 mg of calcium.

IRON

Iron is needed to support your increased blood level supply as well as your baby’s. An iron supplement can protect against anemia, which can lead to increased fatigue and pregnancy complications. “Prenatal supplements with iron can be especially important for vegetarian moms-to-be since meat is one of the most concentrated sources,” says Greenhouse. It’s recommended to have a 30 mg of elemental iron per day.

VITAMIN C

We think of vitamin C as the ingredient to stock up on when we are sick or feeling sick, but for pregnancy, this vitamin is important for tissue growth and still plays a role in your immunity. This vitamin is extremely important for pregnant women as it enhances the absorption of iron. The recommended daily dosage is 80 to 85 mg.

VITAMIN D

This vitamin is found in fortified dairy products and fish. Vitamin D is so important because it is linked to building a strong immune system as well as increasing calcium absorption and bone health. Previous fertility studies have shown that women with normal vitamin D levels have higher rates of implantation as compared with women whose levels are low. If you are overweight, have dark skin, or limited sun exposure, you may be at risk for deficiency. “Ask your doctor to check your vitamin D levels, as prenatal vitamins don’t have enough dosage to help women with deficiency,” advises Greenhouse.

DHA

Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are important for fetal brain development during pregnancy, so many of the prenatal vitamins include them. The recommended dosage is between 100 to 300 mcg per day. Eating foods with omega-3 like fish, walnut, flax seeds, and canola oil are equally as important.

IODINE

A 2014 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that 1/3 of pregnant women don’t get enough iodine in their diet. Iodine is important in helping your body produce thyroid hormones that are critical for a baby’s brain development. Choose a prenatal vitamin with 150 mcg iodine during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

WHAT IF I HAVE SIDE EFFECTS TAKING A PRENATAL VITAMIN?

It is not uncommon for people to have some trouble tolerating prenatal vitamins. Dr. Greenhouse provides tips for taking the vitamins to prevent any side effects.

• Nausea: Instead of taking the vitamin in the morning, try taking it after dinner closer to bedtime.
• Too big to swallow: Find a chewable prenatal vitamin over the counter or get a prescription from your doctor.
• Constipation: Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-filled vegetables and whole grains—this should help get things moving.
• Diarrhea: Some prenatal vitamins contain polyethylene glycol —a laxative ingredient to balance out constipation side effects. If you have a sensitive stomach, this may not be the right prenatal vitamin for you. Read the prenatal vitamin labels carefully.

Medical Contribution: Stephen J. Greenhouse, M.D.

Waiting until you’re pregnant to start taking a prenatal vitamin is common but not advised. Many women don’t have their first prenatal appointment with their doctor or start thinking about a prenatal vitamin until they are already 8 weeks pregnant. By this time, the most critical organs in the fetus, such as the heart, the brain, and the spinal cord have already been developed. Therefore, in order for a prenatal vitamin to have maximum impact, we tell our patients, if you are of reproductive age and having unprotected intercourse, you should take a daily prenatal supplement that includes a range of vitamins.

When you’re pregnant, your body needs a variety of vitamins and minerals to support a healthy baby. Of course, we recommend a balanced diet, but when pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and food cravings prevent you from making healthy food choices, a prenatal vitamin can help bridge the gap. Dr. Stephen Greenhouse of Shady Grove Fertility’s Fair Oaks, VA, location discuss the key ingredients to look for in a prenatal vitamin in the online article medhelp.org and why these nutrients are so important to maximizing the health of the pregnancy and the baby.

FOLIC ACID

This B-vitamin (B9) protects the baby’s neural tube, which becomes the brain and the spine. Folate is actually found in many foods that we eat such as beans, dark leafy greens, and citrus. This vitamin is most important in the first few weeks of conception and even before you know that you’re pregnant.  Because this is an essential vitamin, it’s recommended that women of childbearing age take vitamins regularly. Dr. Stephen Greenhouse says, “Women who take folic acid supplements have an up to 80% reduction in neural tube defects.” The U.S. Preventative Task Force recommends 400 to 800 mcg of folic acid a day.

CALCIUM

“We’ve learned in grade school that calcium is good for your bones, but what you might not know is that it may also reduce the risk of preeclampsia or high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can lead to complications,” says Dr. Stephen Greenhouse. Most prenatal vitamins have a majority of your daily calcium, but not all. The rest of your calcium should come from foods that contain dairy, soy, almonds, and dark leafy greens. It’s recommended to have at least three servings of calcium-rich food each day and to look for prenatal vitamins that contain 1,200 to 1,500 mg of calcium.

IRON

Iron is needed to support your increased blood level supply as well as your baby’s. An iron supplement can protect against anemia, which can lead to increased fatigue and pregnancy complications. “Prenatal supplements with iron can be especially important for vegetarian moms-to-be since meat is one of the most concentrated sources,” says Greenhouse. It’s recommended to have a 30 mg of elemental iron per day.

VITAMIN C

We think of vitamin C as the ingredient to stock up on when we are sick or feeling sick, but for pregnancy, this vitamin is important for tissue growth and still plays a role in your immunity. This vitamin is extremely important for pregnant women as it enhances the absorption of iron. The recommended daily dosage is 80 to 85 mg.

VITAMIN D

This vitamin is found in fortified dairy products and fish. Vitamin D is so important because it is linked to building a strong immune system as well as increasing calcium absorption and bone health. Previous fertility studies have shown that women with normal vitamin D levels have higher rates of implantation as compared with women whose levels are low. If you are overweight, have dark skin, or limited sun exposure, you may be at risk for deficiency. “Ask your doctor to check your vitamin D levels, as prenatal vitamins don’t have enough dosage to help women with deficiency,” advises Greenhouse.

DHA

Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are important for fetal brain development during pregnancy, so many of the prenatal vitamins include them. The recommended dosage is between 100 to 300 mcg per day. Eating foods with omega-3 like fish, walnut, flax seeds, and canola oil are equally as important.

IODINE

A 2014 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that 1/3 of pregnant women don’t get enough iodine in their diet. Iodine is important in helping your body produce thyroid hormones that are critical for a baby’s brain development. Choose a prenatal vitamin with 150 mcg iodine during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

WHAT IF I HAVE SIDE EFFECTS TAKING A PRENATAL VITAMIN?

It is not uncommon for people to have some trouble tolerating prenatal vitamins. Dr. Greenhouse provides tips for taking the vitamins to prevent any side effects.

• Nausea: Instead of taking the vitamin in the morning, try taking it after dinner closer to bedtime.
• Too big to swallow: Find a chewable prenatal vitamin over the counter or get a prescription from your doctor.
• Constipation: Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-filled vegetables and whole grains—this should help get things moving.
• Diarrhea: Some prenatal vitamins contain polyethylene glycol —a laxative ingredient to balance out constipation side effects. If you have a sensitive stomach, this may not be the right prenatal vitamin for you. Read the prenatal vitamin labels carefully.

Drugstore.com coupon code: 15 Ways To Use Vitamin E For Wrinkles

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As we age, our skin loses its firmness, elasticity and moisture which increase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Stress, smoking, sun exposure, lack of sleep, less intake of vitamin E, free radicals attack, and usage of certain drugs are some of the causes of wrinkle.

There are so many wrinkle creams on the market that it’s hard to choose the right one. Most of them are expensive and ineffective, and they contain harsh chemicals that cause dryness. Fortunately, you don’t need those. You can prevent and reduce the appearance of wrinkles just by getting enough vitamin E. We’re about to tell you where to find it and how to use it, but first, let us tell you why it is effective.

Is Vitamin E good for Wrinkles?

• Moisturizing and antioxidant property of vitamin E lessen the appearance of wrinkles and moisturizes the skin to prevent roughness and flaking.
• It has alpha – tocopherol cream that reduces the length and depth of facial lines and wrinkles.
• The antioxidants in vitamin E protect skin cells from harmful UV rays and other free radicals that contribute to collagen breakdown.
• Vitamin E supports the production of elastin and collagen, which keep skin firm and smooth and reduces the appearances of visible age spots, wrinkles.
• It penetrates easily and deeply into epidermis and hydrates the dry epidermis to reduce the wrinkles and also prevent the formation of new wrinkles.
• It helps with cell proliferation that allows the skin cells to renew themselves which in turn results in soft and more vibrant skin.
• It protects the cell membranes from harmful toxic chemicals and pollution to prevent the breakdown of collagen.

How to Use Vitamin E to Prevent Wrinkles:

Vitamin E can be used in two ways by applying vitamin E oil or applying the natural ingredients which are enriched with vitamin E oil.

1. Vitamin E Oil

• Wash the area with mild cleanser and lukewarm water and pat dry.
• Puncture 2 vitamin E capsules and squeeze out the oil.
• Use fingertips to apply oil on wrinkled skin, massaging gently in circular motions for 3 minutes.
• Leave on overnight and rinse with lukewarm water followed by cool water in the morning.
• Repeat nightly.
• You can apply this around the eye before going to bed to treat eye wrinkles. Massage gently but make sure it does not get into eyes.
• Apply vitamin E oil on skin within 8 hours of sun exposure to prevent wrinkles that caused by inflammation and sun damage.

2. Vitamin E Oil with Aloe Vera

The malic acid in aloe vera improves skin’s elasticity.

• Extract oil from 2 vitamin E oil capsules.
• Mix with 1 teaspoon of fresh aloe vera gel or juice.
• Use fingertips to apply to wrinkled skin, massaging in gentle circles for 3 minutes.
• Leave on 30 minutes.
• Wash with lukewarm water and pat dry.
• Repeat daily..

3. Vitamin E, Honey, Lemon Juice, and Yogurt

Honey moisturizes the skin while protecting it from damaging toxins. Lemon juice tightens pores and bleaches away scars and dark spots. Yogurt cools and soothes skin.

• Extract the oil from 3 vitamin E capsules.
• Add ½ teaspoon each of honey and lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of yogurt.
• Use fingertips to apply on clean skin as a mask.
• Leave on 20 minutes, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry.
• Follow the process regularly.
• You can also apply this mix without using lemon juice.

4. Vitamin E with Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains anti-oxidants that heal damaged skin.

Process 1:

• Pinch 1 vitamin E capsule to extract the oil and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil.
• Massage gently into wrinkled skin in circular motions.
• Leave on 20 minutes, rinse with water, and pat dry.
• Repeat twice a day.
• Note: add two drops of lavender oil for added benefits.

Process 2:

• Add vitamin E oil from 3 capsules and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil in your regularly wrinkle cream.
• Keep it aside for few hours.
• Use this as a eye cream to treat eye wrinkles.

5. Vitamin E Oil with Olive Oil

Olive oil moisturizes and nourishes skin to maintain firmness and elasticity.

• Mix ¼ teaspoon each of vitamin E oil and olive oil.
• Apply on the face and neck before going to bed.
• Massage gently for 3 minutes by rubbing in circular motions.
• Leave on overnight.
• Rinse with lukewarm water followed by cool water and pat dry.
• Follow the process regularly.

6. Vitamin E Oil with Rosewater, Honey, and Turmeric

This remedy delays the aging process and thus reduces the premature wrinkles on the forehead.

• Mix ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil, ½ teaspoon rosewater, ½ teaspoon turmeric, and 1 teaspoon honey to make a paste.
• Apply paste to wrinkles and leave on 15 minutes.
• Rinse with cool water and pat dry.
• Repeat daily to prevent the formation of lines on forehead.

7. Vitamin E with Vitamin C

Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, enabling it to fight off free radicals that may damage skin.

• Mix ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil with ¼ teaspoon vitamin C oil.
• Massage gently into wrinkled skin by rubbing gently in circular motions.
• Leave on 20 minutes, rinse with water, and pat dry.
• Repeat daily.
• You can also use sunscreen or anti – wrinkles or anti-aging creams (products) has vitamin C and E as main ingredients.

Natural Vitamin E Ingredients:

8. Almonds

Almonds contain vitamin E, iron, calcium, fiber, and zinc, all of which keep skin healthy, firm, and smooth also help to delay the aging process. Eat a handful of almonds a day and try the process below.

• Soak a handful of almonds in raw milk overnight.
• Peel and grind them Place to make a paste.
• Apply on the wrinkles and massage gently.
• Leave on 15 minutes, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry.
• Follow the process regularly.
• You can also massage almond oil into skin every day.

9. Avocado

Avocado contains vitamin E. It tightens pores and nourishes skin to prevent wrinkles

• Blend a ripe avocado pulp until smooth and pasty.
• Apply on clean skin as a mask and leave on 30 minutes.
• Rinse with water and pat dry.
• Repeat 3 times a week.
• For added benefit, include 2 teaspoons of flaxseeds powder, 2 tablespoons of fresh cream and 1 tablespoon of raw honey.

10. Orange Peel with Argan Oil

Argan oil is enriched with vitamin E and orange peel contains vitamin C. The process helps to remove dead skin cells and thus promotes proper blood circulation to get rid of wrinkles and fine lines on neck and chest.

• Dry an orange peel and grind it to powder.
• Mix enough of argan oil with ½ teaspoon of orange peel powder.
• Apply to wrinkled skin, massaging gently in circular motions to exfoliate.
• Leave on 20 minutes rinse with water, and pat dry.
• Repeat 3 times a week.

11. Aloe Vera with Egg White

Both aloe vera and egg white contain vitamin E. Aloe vera moisturizes the skin while egg white tightens pores. Together, they leave skin firm and smooth.

• Whisk 1 egg white until smooth and stir in 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel or juice.
• Apply on the forehead as a mask and leave on 15 minutes.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
• Repeat three times a week.

12. Peanut Oil with Rosehip Seed Oil

Peanut oil and rosehip seed oil contain vitamin E.

• Mix 5 drops rosehip seed oil with 2 teaspoons unrefined peanut oil.
• Apply on wrinkles, massaging gently in circular motions until absorbed.
• Leave on overnight.
• In the morning, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
• Repeat nightly.

13. Papaya, Banana, and Honey

Papaya contains tons of vitamins C and E, and banana moisturizes skin. This process is very effective to treat wrinkles in men.

• In a blender, mix a 1-inch cube of papaya, a 1-inch section of banana, and 2 teaspoons of raw honey until smooth.
• Apply mixture to face and neck and leave on 20 minutes.
• Massage gently with wet fingers for 10 minutes or until mask rinses away.
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water and pat dry.
• Repeat everyday to prevent the formation of wrinkles.

14. Salad

Fresh salads are filled with vitamin E as well as several other vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants that work from inside to fight wrinkles. Eat it daily.

• Fill a salad bowl with roughly torn baby spinach.
• Toss in grated carrots, chopped tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, and a handful of pumpkin seeds.
• Use a mortar and pestle to grind 1 cup of mustard greens and 1 teaspoon of sea salt.
• Stir the mixture into 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil until smooth.
• Pour on salads and toss well.

15. Vitamin Smoothie

The ingredients in this smoothie contain lots of vitamin E and other nutrients that keep skin healthy and smooth.

• Blend 2almonds and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin seeds until they form powder.
• Add ½ cup each of peeled and chopped papaya and avocado and blend until smooth.
• Add 1 cup of chilled almond milk and ½ cup of crushed ice and blend again until smooth.
• Drink daily.

Tips and Precautions:

For best results, follow the advice below when using vitamin E to prevent and reduce wrinkles.

• When purchasing vitamin E oil or supplements, choose the ones that contain D–alpha tocopherol and avoid those that contain Dl–alpha tocopherol.
• When purchasing cleansers and lotions that contain vitamin E, choose organic brands that don’t contain preservatives, additives, and harsh chemicals.
• To reduce dryness, always use vitamin E oil or lotion after washing.
• Before starting topical vitamin E oil treatments, do a patch test to make sure you’re not allergic. If you develop redness, itching, or rash, discontinue use immediately.
• Eat vitamin E rich foods. Foods that contain vitamin E include vegetable oils, eggs, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, avocado, fish, meat, broccoli, olives, legumes, whole grains, wheat germ, safflower oil, spinach, lemons and oranges, milk, and other dairy products.
• You can take vitamin E pills orally to treat wrinkles. The recommended dosage for vitamin E supplements is 400 mg per day. But be sure that not to take iron supplements as it inhibits the absorption of vitamin E into the body.
• Smoking damages skin and prevents vitamin E from working to restore it.
• Excessive consumption of vitamin E may increase the risk of bleeding if you suffer from bleeding disorders or if you’re using blood thinners. Consult your doctor for proper dosage.
• Wear sunscreen to prevent skin damage.
• Other than following vitamin E methods, quit smoking and alcohol, reduce the stress and have healthy diet.
• Don’t get vitamin E oil in your eyes.
• Buy vitamin E product which contain tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocotrienols, alpha tocopherol, and tocopheryl succinate.

Keep in mind that healthy skin is the product of a healthy body and lifestyle. Getting regular exercise, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables goes a long way to maintaining firm, smooth skin. Also, get plenty of sleep and try reducing stress through yoga or breathing exercises.

Have you tried using vitamin E oil or supplements to prevent or reduce the appearance of wrinkles? Tell us which methods worked best for you!

How to Choose and Blend the Right Oils for Your Acne Prone Skin

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She’s going to tell us all about how to choose the right oils to use for your skin type and how to make oil blends that kick acne butt!

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I am in love (madly?) with natural skin oils for most skin issues. Actually I have not come upon a skin issue in which I wouldn’t recommend an oil.

From oily to dry, acne to aging, as a daily self-massage (abyangha) or for the bath, oils hold the essence and medicinal properties of the plant seeds. Every oil has its own personality and properties, which are called the energetics. The energetics are super important as a guideline to choose the best oil, matching people with the best oil for their skin.

It is a big topic and I have gone into the energetics of some oils that are particularly suited for acne here. I hope that this serves you well when making your own skin oil blends.

Choosing the Base Oils

Though acne is considered a hot and damp condition in Traditional Chinese Medicine, it will be expressed differently in each person. Without getting too complicated, internally a person could be cold and deficient and yet have acne on the surface. This may be caused by slow digestion where the body is compensating by releasing too much from the skin. So, following are some general guidelines for choosing a base blend.

Use your intuition and also consider the following questions:

1) Underneath the acne, is your skin dry, or oily?

2) Are you more prone to being hot, or cold?

If more prone towards heat and oily skin:

Grapeseed oil is a dry, light and cool oil. It is a great, almost neutral base oil high in Vitamins C and E. I have used this with really good success for oily skin types that experience dry conditions like eczema. If the acne is crusty or flaky, this may be a good choice.

Jojoba oil is dry, light and cool and almost neutral oil with great absorptive properties. Jojoba also has qualities that help the skin retain moisture, preventing the skin from overcompensating with more oil production. It also has healing abilities for wounds caused by acne.

If more prone towards cold and dry skin:

Sesame oil is neutral-wet, light and warm. Sesame is one of the most balanced oils between oleic and linoleic acids. Oleic acids have a heavier quality while linoleic make an oil lighter, so the balance here shows us that this is a medium density oil.

Plum oil is wet, light and warm. Being a very sweet smelling oil with more moisturizing qualities, plum is best for people with dry underlying skin and used in small amounts. It has slightly astringent properties indicated by its perfume-like taste.

Apricot Kernel is a wet, light and warm oil. It is very soothing for inflamed, irritated skin and high in Vitamins C and E. Apricot kernel is a good general moisturizer for most skin types.

If more prone towards cold and oily skin:

Coconut is a dry, light and warm oil and is best for people more prone to being cold. It is not so good when the skin is hot and actively inflamed, as the warmth could make that worse. Coconut oil has additional antimicrobial properties and is easily absorbed when applied to damp skin.

Adding in Oils for Particular Medicinal Effects

There are also oils that are great for their medicinal qualities yet energetically not as fitting as the major part of the blend. These can be added in smaller amounts in the formula for particular purposes.

For example, in a blend for active acne, an oil that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties will be really helpful. So for example, though castor oil is a moist and heavy oil, it is great to add in lesser amounts for its potent abilities as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, drawing and scar softening oil.

Neem oil is another antimicrobial oil that can be helpful in small amounts. It has a distinctive smell that borders on sulphur-y so consider that when making your blend.

Evening primrose oil is wonderful for helping to prevent and heal scarring. It is best when used at a minimum of 20% of a formula.

Formulating

I find it best to formulate first by percentages and then break that down into an actual amount. This gives a great overall picture of the finished product and what you want to accomplish with it.

The base of the blend should be at least 50% or more depending upon how many oils you will be adding. I don’t go below 10% for any oil as the effects will not be noticeable at that dilution rate. One of the great parts of making your own skin oils is that you know you are using an effective amount of each active oil. Some expensive commercial brands may advertise the precious expensive oils but really they are using a tiny amount of it.

Essential oils can be added at a rate of 8-10 drops per ounce of oil for most essential oils. Take care when using really strong ones, like oregano or thyme and start out with a lesser amount (about 4 drops per ounce of carrier oil).

How to Choose Between Cream and Powder Contour Products

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Celebrity makeup artists have truly helped turn contouring into a phenomenon that women around the globe are now taking part in. With just a few steps, you can actually transform your face and give yourself more definition or minimize more prominent features. Contouring also highlights the most flattering areas of your face for a flawless “red carpet” look—it’s like some form of makeup magic.

While the art of contouring may seem extremely tricky for a non-professional to master, it’s truly much easier than you think. Instead, the main issue is finding exactly the right products for your skin tone and texture to help create the perfect contour.

MORE: Use These Highlight and Contour Sets to Get Your Kardashian On

Some women like to put a base foundation on first before contouring. This is fine, especially if you want to keep things more natural and do a light-handed contour on top of your everyday foundation. However, you can just apply a concealer and darker shade for contour on your face and blend them together in place of foundation for a more dramatic look (for a full step-by-step on how to contour, check out our how-to guide).

In terms of which products to use, consider your skin type. For example, if you have oily skin, a cream-based contour routine is probably not the best option for you. Instead, try using powders to “carve” out your face and give it definition.

On the other hand, if you have dry skin, powder may accentuate this. Fine lines are also accentuated by powders, so in these instances, use lightweight, dewy cream-based products to hydrate and contour simultaneously.

The best part about contouring is you can mix and match your products. Not everything used needs to be just powder or just creams—powder can absolutely be placed on top of your liquid foundation and blended in for a seamless contour.

If creams are more your thing, try L’Oreal True Match Super Blendable Crayon Concealer in Medium/Deep Neutral, Tarte the Sculptor Contouring Face Slenderizer, or the Viseart Corrector, Contour, Camouflage HD Palette.

If you’re a powder kind of girl, we recommend the Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit, Lorac TANtalizer Highlight and Matte Bronzer Duo, or NYX Highlight and Contour Pro Palette.

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Using a night cream should be part of your skin care routine when you reach your thirties. Night creams are specially designed to nourish and improve your skin while you sleep as these creams contain lots of nourishing and moisturizing components. Night creams or serums are especially beneficial for people and / or those who have crossed the bar thirty years and whose skin begins to show the first signs of aging: wrinkles appear, the skin becomes drier, less elastic and dull.

 Why you should use a night cream?

It has been scientifically proven that the ability of the skin to absorb the compositions become more active at night: That’s why you must help to regenerate by applying a night cream that will allow it to absorb nourishing compounds moisturizers and anti-aging.

Thanks to the active substances contained in these creams, the skin returns to form.

Night creams not only nourish the skin but also repair damage caused by makeup, air pollution and sunlight.

The advantages of using night creams:

• Nourish and revitalize the skin.
• Hydrate the skin.
• Soothe and calm the skin.
• Preserve the skin tone and finesse.
• Stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
• Improves blood circulation.
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations.
• Prevent sagging skin.
• Make it the skin soft, smooth and supple.
• Improves the appearance of aging skin.
• Helps the skin recover faster and restore elasticity.
• Stimulates cell renewal.

Difference between Day Cream and Night Cream

The main difference between a day cream (moisturizer) and a night cream are the elements that these creams contain.

Day creams are lighter in regard to consistency and contain ingredients that moisturize and protect the skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays (SPF 15 or higher).

Night creams contain nourishing and anti-aging active ingredients that stimulate cell renewal, restore the elasticity of the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Night creams are thicker in consistency and often do not provide sun protection.

How to choose the best night cream for your skin?

It is essential to choose a night cream that suits your skin type.

You should never buy a chunky cream because it may damage your skin instead of repair: If the cream is too thick or greasy, it can clog the pores of the skin, leaving your skin unable to breathe naturally.

Regardless of the type or age of your skin, you should look for a cream with a light texture that is hypoallergenic (do not cause an allergic reaction), non-comedogenic (will not clog pores) and odorless.

At the age of 20

Choose a moisturizing night cream that contains more natural ingredients: essential oils, honey, aloe vera, chamomile. If your skin is oily, choose an oil free formula and non-comedogenic (will not clog pores) containing alpha hydroxy acids or beta.

At the age of 30

Once you reach thirties, you should look for a more rich night creams that contains anti-aging active ingredients – retinol, collagen, amino acids, ceramides, vitamins as well as alpha hydroxy acids. Remember to use an anti-aging eye cream that treats wrinkles around the eyes.

At the age of 40

At 40, you should start using anti-wrinkle night cream that treats wrinkles and deeper wrinkles, prevents blisters and sagging skin. Searching a cream that contains: collagen, retinol, ceramides, peptides, lipids, panthenol, copper, soy extracts, essential oils and vitamins.

The common components of night creams

Most night creams on the market today contain many active ingredients that nourish and format your skin while you sleep: substances that give shape to the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discoloratiOrdinary in the night cream ingredients are vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, jojoba oil, aloe vera, honey, olive oil, apricot oil, shea butter oil, rose, jasmine, anti-aging substances: retinol, peptides,

amino acids, alpha hydroxy acids or beta, pathénol, copper, antioxidants, collagen.

How to properly use a night cream?

Whatever your age and skin type, you should always remove your makeup and cleanse your skin twice daily.

Use a mild facial cleanser and wash it with circular movements. Use a toner for the faceaccording to your skin type to remove excess oil, dirt and makeup residue.

Let your skin dry for a few minutes before applying the cream, otherwise it will slip and will not have a great effect.

Take an appropriate amount of cream with your fingertips (on the fourth finger) and apply it on the face, avoiding the eye area.

Keep the cream, an inch away from the eyes to avoid irritation. Starting with the middle of your face apply the cream to your face giving a little assistance. Make sure to apply the cream evenly and massage slightly. Never rub the cream. Use an eye cream to moisturize and nourish the skin around the eyes.

Useful beauty tips

· Always remove your makeup at night with a gentle cleanser.

· Always use a day cream or night to cleansed and toned skin.

· Avoid using night creams too thick, it may damage your skin.

· If your skin is oily and prone to the eruption of pimples use an oil-free moisturizer and a night cream.

· If your skin is prone to breakouts or acne, choose a cream containing alpha hydroxy acids or benzoyl peroxide.

· Always use care products and makeup that suit your skin type.

· Never use strong or moisturizers to the eye because they may irritate the eyes.

· Use an eye cream to prevent wrinkles around the eyes and dark circles.

· Use products that stimulate blood circulation and oxygenation: this will help to fight against dehydration and imbalances such as excessive oil production and drought.

· Use products containing more natural ingredients: essential oils, aloe vera, honey, chamomile, vitamins and minerals.

· Remove your makeup at night carefully.

. Use a cleansing milk and remove the mascara first and when the makeup is completely removed to use a new cream for the eyes.

· Use a day cream and night of the same brand: these products are designed to work together for best results.