Category Archives: Skin Face Care

Glycolic Gel – The Miracle Skin Treatment?

September 9, 2011

What is Glycolic Gel?

Glycolic Gel is the generic name for all types of Gel that contain a percentage of glycolic acid as the active ingredient. To be considered safe for external use by humans the concentration of glycolic acid should not be more than 10%, although there are products with concentrations of up to 15%.

What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid (or hydroxyacetic acid) is the smallest a-hydroxy acid (AHA). Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s) were initially derived from fruit, sugar cane, and milk. Common AHA’s include glycolic, citric, and lactic acid. All AHA’s are water soluble and lack systemic toxicity. As the shortest-chain AHA molecule, glycolic acid is colorless, odorless and hydroscopic. These properties make glycolic acid a suitable ingredient for keratolysis (exfoliation of the skin) and anti-aging applications (stimulation of tissue production and hydration). Glycolic acid is also water soluble, making it versatile for dermatologic and cosmetic formulations.

It is derived from sugar cane and sugar beets but can be also synthetically made in science labs from chloroacetic acid.

History of AHA’s:
Aha’s were introduced in the 1970′s to decrease corneocyte adhesion and stimulate epidermolysis on psoriatic lesions (skin disease). it provided dermatologists with an alternative over other chemical peeling agents such as loroacetic acid and phenol. in the 1990′s, various cosmetic products containing AHA’s were commercially available.

Effects
Glycolic gel with concentrations of acid in varying percentage have been shown to be effective in cosmetic and dermatologic applications. it also has collagen and elastin synthesis effects. Its hydroscopic properties enable it to cause moisture retention in the tissues it affects. This effect can be further enhanced when combined with hydrophilic lotions, gels, and washes.

Indications:
Glycolic gel products include peels, moisturizers and facial washes that all have enhanced moisturizing and keratolytic effects, resulting in improved appearance of skin texture and tone. One of the usages of glycolic Gel is for Acne Scarring where it was shown to have positive effects in minimizing acne scars and smilulating dermal regenaration. it also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles when used in combination with other treatments.Other indications are for the treatment of Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, Lentigines, Keratosis, Actinic Keratosis, Hyperkeratosis, Seborrheic Keratosis, Keratosis Pilaris

Dangers:
Glycolic Acid in concentrations higher than 10% is considered Hazardous Material in the USA. in chemican peels, it can reach up to 50% in concentration. Higher than that,near to 70%, is consireded for industrial usage, where it is involved in rust removal or degreasing and is extremely dangerous to lethal for humans.

In the next articles we will tell you more about its usage and the brand names that contain AHA’s and can be found in the market.

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What is Emu Oil?

July 8, 2011

Does it deliver good results as a face moisturizer?

What exactly does it do?

mu oil is an oil made from refined fat of the Emu, a bird native to Australia. It has been used for thousands of years by the Australian aborigines for the treatment of burns, wounds, bruises, and as a pain reliever for bone, muscle, and joint disorders. Emu oil is approximately 70% unsaturated fatty acids. The largest component is oleic acid – a mono-unsaturated fatty acid. Emu oil also contains about 20% linoleic (Omega 6) acid and 1-2% linolenic (Omega 3) acid. There is some evidence to suggest that the oil may have medicinal benefit.[1] It is frequently used topically to soften skin and is frequently found in ointments for dry cracked heels.

Emu oil has been shown in studies to aid in reducing scar formation in healed burned wounds, muscle sprains, and arthritis due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Emu oil is a complete neutral lipid, since emu oil lacks phospholipid, making it highly penetrating to the skin.

Emu Oil has been used for thousands of years by the Aborigines of Australia to reduce the pain & swelling of arthritis, heal wounds & burns including sunburns, and to reduce the pain, itch & swelling of insect bites and stings.

Scientific studies verify that Emu Oil has unique healing properties.

Emu Oil is highly moisturizing, a natural skin softener and has rejuvenating properties
( has been shown to reduce the depth and length of fine lines & wrinkles ). It is also non greasy and highly penetrating. in fact Emu Oil has demonstrated to be the fastest and most penetrating oil into the skin, making it an excellent trans-dermal carrier for any other added moisturizers or therapeutic ingredients.

Emu Oil is natural & non-toxic, non-comedogenic (does not clog pores), hypo-allergenic (non-irritating) and gentle for all skin types.

Emu Oil is an effective anti-inflammatory. The potency of the anti-inflammatory effect from Emu Oil is similar to ibuprofen without the negative side-affects frequently common with traditional prescription or corticosteroid based anti-inflammatory medications.

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Bangkok Post : Eco-conscious Pampering

July 8, 2011

Organic spa products and organic spa treatments are becoming increasingly popular. this may be because people today care not only about health, wellbeing and inner beauty, but are also interested in environmental and social sustainability. they take care of themselves and are simultaneously conscious of protecting the planet.

The dry skin body brushing is done in sweeping movement working towards the heart.

Recently launched at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok’s t i.sawan Residential Spa & Club is the new “Pure Organics” treatments using a complete range of Ecocert-certified organic skin products line.

But just how organic does a product need to be, to be labelled organic? the standards and guidelines set by Ecocert, the leading European authority on organic certification, are: no pre-treatment used in any of the raw materials found in organic formulas; all suppliers must pass an extensive review before their raw materials are approved; all manufacturing and packaging facilities undergo a rigorous inspection; and all packaging must be recyclable.

“Ecocert standards are highly respected throughout Europe and following Ecocert’s formulation parameters are many prestigious organic brands including Comfort Zone,” said Jennifer Cikaluk, the spa director.

Crushed black and white organic sesame seeds is one of the key natural ingredients used for the custom-made organic body scrub. the crushed sesame seeds will be blended with the body gommage and use as powerful skin scrubbing.

“At Hyatt, we are looking at different ways to protect our environment,” she added. “Recently, Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok launched an organic farm project in Wang Nam Khieo, Nakhon Ratchasima and the i.sawan’s initiative of introducing the Pure Organics treatment menu truly supports the hotel’s commitment to environmental and social sustainability. “We selected the Comfort Zone brand and specially its Sacred Nature because it is an eco-cosmetic line that combines natural formulations with organic active ingredients,” she explained.

“The products have been designed to be biological, dermatologically tested, indicated for all skin types, even the most delicate, produced using renewable resources and packaged in recyclable materials with water-based colours.”

According to the spa manager, active ingredients in the products are all organic-certified – buriti oil, butterfly bush extract, distilled orange water, shea butter and jojoba oil.

Buriti oil comes from a palm tree in Brazil, which is also known as the “tree of life”. the oil is rich in carotenoids, which contribute a powerful antioxidant action that protects the skin from oxidative damage that can cause premature skin ageing. Butterfly bush extract protects the DNA of the skin’s cells from the phenomenon of apoptosis due to exposure to UVB.

Organic distilled orange water has a remineralising action and has the advantage of being sterile and preservative-free. Organic shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins and is deeply nourishing and protects the skin from environmental pollution. Jojoba oil has a high concentration of natural antioxidants, highly recommended for premature ageing and dry skin.

“The aroma used in all Sacred Nature products is characterised by almond, cedarwood, vanilla and citrus,” said the spa director. “During spa pampering moments, you will sense the smell and will awaken to the sweet and reassuring aroma that perfectly recalls nature and its simplicity.”

The Pure Organics menu at i.sawan features four treatments – Sacred Nature Ritual (105 minutes/4,100 baht), Sacred Nature Anti-ageing and Nourishing Facial (60 minutes/2,700 baht), Sacred Nature Nourishing Body Massage (60 minutes/2,900 baht, 90 minutes/3,900 baht), and Sacred Nature Custom Organic Body Scrub (45 minutes/2,100 baht).

The spacious spa treatment cottage at i.sawan Residential Spa & Club.

With a brief explanation of the treatments and products, I opted for the 105-minute, full body and face Sacred Nature Ritual and had the therapist escorting me to one of i.sawan’s spacious spa cottages where the temperature and music can be personalised to your liking.

After changing and foot washing, I was face down on the comfortable spa bed and the ritual began with a body brushing exfoliation process. this gentle dry skin brushing was done with a perfect pressure in sweeping movements working towards the heart. this feel-good technique has been used for hundreds of years to boost the lymph system, increase circulation and stimulate cell renewal which helps lessen the appearance of cellulite.

The tickling five-minute dry skin brushing was followed by the second-step body scrub using Sacred Nature gommage which is rich in natural and organic buriti oil, butterfly bush extract and distilled orange water. the fine scrub was applied in small portions on the skin, with the well-trained therapist gently massaging it using soft, round pressure. the scrubbing helped remove impurities and dead skin cells, and after a warm shower to rinse off the very little leftover fine gommage, I could feel that my skin was smooth and soft.

The next step was the 45-minute body massage using the organic Secret Nature oil along with the butterfly massage technique. Adapted from the rhythmic grace of the butterfly’s movement during flight, this gentle, non-invasive massage was meant to induce detoxification and lymphatic drainage and improve circulation to renew skin texture. the therapeutic, long stroke massage was done efficiently by the skilful therapist and had the oil completely seeping into the skin. the result – a refined and silky skin texture.

The following 30-minute anti-ageing and nourishing facial treatment was quick and efficient. it started with a complete cleansing, followed with a gentle gommage facial scrub to take away dead skin cells, and a 10-minute creamy mask to moisturise the skin. next was the facial massage using the rich but not oily Sacred Nature facial cream which also doubled as a nourishing cream – meaning no need to tissue off after the massage as it gave the skin a more nourishing and healthy glow.

To complete a day spa journey in harmony, organic dishes using organic produce from the hotel’s own farm together with an organic juice and smoothie were served at the adjacent Breezeway overlooking the pool.

“Just a day’s organic spa experience will not provide long-lasting benefits,” said the spa director. “So, I recommend purchasing the products and enjoy your healthy, organic experience at home.”

i.sawan Residential Spa & Club at Grand HyattErawan Bangkok, Ratchadamri Road. Call 02-254-1234.

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Why Do Men Prefer Body Over Face For Short Term Relationship?

June 14, 2011

Research shows that men, who are looking for a short-term lover, are more interested in a woman’s body, but are interested in a women’s face, only when they are considering long term relationship.

The premise that a woman’s body reveals more insight into her immediate baby-making potential than her face, which is more of a window into her long-term reproductive value, is proving to be correct.

So ladies, hit the gym, since it’s your hot body – and not your beautiful face – that guys are after. If you’re looking for a long-term relationship, than this is not for you.

There is a lot of studies and analysis about why a face is attractive or body is beautiful. But the preference for body over face has not been taken up for research so far.this is analyzed now.

The research was done by University of Texas at Austin.

1]Men showed a significant preference for body over face for a short term relationship.

2]Women were more interested about the face, for both short term and long term relationship.this makes sense, as men’s fertility doesn’t decline as rapidly as women’s. a man in his old age is capable of getting a women pregnant, so women are not much concerned about men’s body.

For the research a group of 375 college students were shown photograph of a person of opposite sex.

Half of group were shown photographs with face and body hidden and asked to rank the images for a potential short term mate.

The other half were shown photographs with either body or face covered and asked to rank them for a potential long term mate.

The Result:when asked to pick one for a one-night stand-51% of guys looked at the body and when asked to pick one for a long term- 75 % of them looked at the face.

WHAT COULD POSSIBLE BE THE REASON.

Haven’t we heard this a many times “everything is perfect but her face”. What could this mean. Is there, than, that the body attractiveness conveys something differently than facial attractiveness.The co-author of the research was stimulated by this thought.they feel that the women’s, face and body do give different clues

For instance, they say, that a women’s face might indicate how many baby-making years she has ahead of her. when the skin is smooth and supple, it indicates youth.

A girl at 16 is at the peak of her reproductive potential and by 24 she is at the peak of her fertility. So one chooses youth when seeking a long term mate, capable of giving lot of off springs.

On the other hand, a women’s body gives different fertility cues. a curvy full featured women is always highly desirable as a short term mate, since there is ample evidence of her being capable to get pregnant. during ovulation the hip to waist ratio decreases.

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