Being in cold weather

I was in Shanghai for four weeks (Nov 16 - Dec 14, 2008).

It was winter season.

After three days stayed there, I started to feel my body changing because of cold weather. Of course, I'm from tropical country and then must stay in four-season country for almost one month!

My skin started to crack, causing some small wounds in some parts of my body. The skin on my fingers was dry. My face broke out and my lips were dry too, they were tight, I had trouble to smile.
Even my scalp got dry and it's like I was having dandruff. The problem was: I brought wrong type of clothes and I didn't bring all the moisturizer I needed just because I was very concern about my baggage weight!

So at the first weekend when we had time to go to down town, I and my colleagues dropped by at Watson’s. My boss recommended some items to be used. I bought several types of moisturizers:

Neutrogena Oil Free, RMB 199, it’s for face moisturizer

Pantene Shampoo with Milk Protein, for my dry hair

Vaseline Intensive Care for Dry Skin, 200 ml, RMB 53

I had my sunscreen cream and lip care from Jakarta (both from The Face Shop, Korea), so I didn’t need to buy new ones. I also brought my Cocoa shower cream from The Body Shop, it has natural cocoa oil to protect the skin from dryness.

Every time I wash my hands or my face, I apply hand cream or face moisturizer afterwards. Then when I felt my lip care worn off, I apply some more.

Now, after done my research in internet about how we take care of our skin in cold weather, here are some tips I can share with you:

• Limit your time in the shower, and bathe in warm rather than hot water, since hot water can strip your skin of moisture.
• Use a body wash instead of bar soap, which can often be too harsh; pat, don't rub, yourself dry; and apply a moisturizer liberally when the skin is still moist.
• Choose the right moisturizer. Moisturizers work not by putting water into the skin, but by slowing the natural loss of water from the skin. Look for one that's both thick and mild.
  
• But for your face, remember to use an oil-free lotion in order to minimize clogged pores.
• Avoid harsh ingredients. Use thick, creamy cleansers if your skin is regularly dry or a foaming gel if your skin is oily.
• Always apply sunscreen to exposed areas of skin, including the face, tops of ears, and backs of hands, and use a lip balm to prevent chapping.
• It's important to increase your intake of water and other fluids. Avoid caffeinated drinks like soda and coffee, which can have a diuretic effect.

For you who's from tropical country, I hope this tips help you when you are traveling to cold countries.

The Downside To Cosmetics - Cosmetic Allergy

By: Charlene J. Nuble -

The American Academy of Dermatology has revealed that on the average, adult Americans use at least seven various cosmetics or cosmetic products daily.

The thing is that products like shampoos, colognes, deodorants, moisturizers and other cosmetics have become part of people’s daily personal routines and they are considered necessities these days.

Cosmetics are primarily used to enhance beauty and some people have become so dependent on them that they become part of lifestyles.

Without any further explanation, it is apparent and very much understood that there are several specified ingredients in such cosmetics that function like antigens or trigger substances for allergic reactions, like fragrances and preservatives.

Cosmetic allergies are not so common. However, experts and studies found that on the average, about 10% of the country’s population is expected to form or experience a form of cosmetic allergy within their lifetime.

But it would be logical to assert that women are more prone to experience cosmetics allergy than men.

Symptoms of cosmetic allergy

Basically, there are only two major skin reactions that will clearly indicate the onset of cosmetics allergy. These are allergic contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis.

The most common manifestation of allergies from cosmetics is inflammation in the infected skin area. The affected spot would exhibit redness and swelling, and most of the time, those two symptoms are carried out with mild to severe itching.

Basic and primary symptoms for cosmetics dermatitis immediately show up or develop after the skin has taken contact with cosmetic products.

Symptoms for cosmetic allergy occurs when the skin breaks down after contact with identified harsh substances. Upon contact, those substances or allergens immediately and directly affect and injure the skin’s outer layer, thus the onset of symptoms.

Like any other form of allergies, cosmetics allergy should not be considered a disease. Rather it is just a normal reaction as the body’s protective immune system throws out or rejects foreign and harmful substances.

Treatment of cosmetics allergy

Creams and ointments specifically manufactured to treat cosmetics allergy are available without prescriptions through retailers and drug stores.

Most of these medications contain cortisone in the form of hydrocortisone acetate and hydrocortisone. Cortisones help curtail redness, swelling and itching during the onset of cosmetics allergy symptoms.

In severe cases, doctors prescribe extra-strong medications and ointments that can effectively and immediately relieve the allergy. Antibiotics are needed if blisters in the skin, which is caused by cosmetics allergy, cracks and becomes infected.

How to prevent cosmetics allergy

There are some recommended measures that can help you prevent contracting cosmetics allergy. Take note of the following ways.

- Before using any cosmetic products, read its labels. Look out for active ingredients that can obviously trigger an allergic reaction to your skin. Find products or alternatives that do not contain such ingredients.

- Perform mini-patch tests to determine if a new cosmetic product is too strong for your skin. It is done by rubbing your wrist with the products and observing for any redness or recatio within 24 hours.

- When buying cosmetics, pick up those that contain very simple cosmetic formulas.

- When wearing perfume, apply it on your clothes, not in your skin.

It would do you no harm if you take several precautions to avoid getting cosmetics allergy. Prevention is much better that treatments. Remember, cosmetic allergy, just like any other allergies, is only treatable, not curable.

Natural Mineral Cosmetics: Flawless Dusting

by Sherry Frewerd

The Product

Virtually no allergy risk, natural mineral cosmetics allow skin to breath. Talc free, chemical free, and dye free natural cosmetics recommended by plastic surgeons and dermatologists, are created from powdered minerals. Their consistency and mineral content act together to calm the most sensitive skin.

Over time mineral cosmetics actually improve your skin. Since your skin is allowed to breathe through the mineral foundation, no oily barrier preventing oxygen from reaching your skin, the texture and tone of your skin improve. Microscopic fibers fill up those tiny lines in your skin and give your complexion a natural healthy glow.

The best part of natural cosmetics is their ability to add a youthful glow while protecting your skin from harmful solar rays. Consisting of mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, ultramarine, zinc oxide, mineral foundation is particularly well suited to use as a sunscreen. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are both used in high quality sun blocks. These cancer fighting sun-blocking agents are both in most mineral make up products.

Mineral cosmetics are ideal for anyone suffering from acne or post surgical skin procedures. In most instances acne improves after extended periods of using mineral make up because titanium dioxide does not promote the growth of bacteria as some cosmetics may. Due to the dry formula of mineral cosmetics, ingredients such as talc, dye, and perfume are not added. Therefore mineral cosmetics offer a chemical free option to popular cosmetic choices.

100 percent natural cosmetics provide excellent coverage, staying power, and creaseless beauty all day long. Natural anti-drying agents help to seal in moisture and prevent clogged pores. Mineral cosmetics dusted on liberally with special high quality brushes fill tiny lines and hide blemishes, leaving a soft healthy glow and sun protections. Because they don't have to be reapplied during the day, they reduce stress and increase the happy factor in your life.

The Application

Foundation gives your face a flawless silky glow that reflects health with fine texture and uniform color. A little goes a long way. It is always best to start your make up application with clean fresh skin. If you choose to use moisturizer, it must be fully absorbed before applying mineral cosmetics.

To conceal any flaws: Lightly brush mineral foundation over any areas where flaws exist. Light layers cover better than one heavy layer; so go lightly.

Mineral foundation should be applied to dry skin, moisture will make it cake and appear uneven on your skin. Using a brush to apply the foundation in circular motions results in flawless coverage.

Blusher or bronzing powder should be applied as a highlighting accent to your face and completed with a finishing powder to set your make up.

Eye shadow can be applied either wet or dry, using a shadow brush, apply lightly and add more as needed. A bit of bronzer is an excellent eye shadow choice for daytime wear.

Using a light touch and the right brushes will help you achieve that dewy glow of youth and good health. These products are inexpensive and long lasting, making them an excellent choice for everyday cosmetic needs.

Beware of these BAD & UGLY stuffs in your personal care products

Source: The Green Guide

Here are the ingredients to be most wary of on labels, and why.

Coal-tar colors

So-called coal-tar chemicals are found in many "FD&C" or "D&C" colors used in makeup and hair dye.

Health Problem: Allergens and irritants, possible carcinogens

Safer Alternatives: Annatto, beta carotene, carmine, hematite, henna, iron oxides, titanium dioxide (nontoxic, but can cause lung irritation if inhaled as powder)

Lead

A brain- and nervous-system toxin as well as a known carcinogen and hormone disruptor, lead accumulates in the bones. It is found in lead acetate in hair dyes and makeup.

Phthalates

Used widely in fragrances, deodorants, nail polishes, hair products and lotions, the oily texture of phthalates acts like a moisturizer and helps lotions penetrate skin.

Health Problems: Various members of this family of chemical plasticizers have been found to produce cancer of the liver and birth defects in lab animals.

Dibutylphthalate (DBP) is of particular concern because documented exposures are high and its health effects are potentially very serious. In nail polish and mascara, DBP helps thin films stay flexible, reducing brittleness and cracking. Animal studies show that DBP causes birth defects and harm to male reproductive organs. Timing of exposure was critical: Harm was done to animals exposed in the womb or shortly after birth.

A 2002 Environmental Working Group (EWG) report found DBP in 37 nail products from 22 different companies. Their 2002 report, "Not Too Pretty" (produced with Health Care Without Harm and Coming Clean), found phthalates in 52 of 72 different personal-care products.

Other commonly used phthalates include dimethylphthalate (DMP) and diethylphthalate (DEP).

Alternatives: Phthalates often "hide" behind the term "fragrance;" choose products labeled "fragrance-free" or that are scented exclusively with pure botanical or essential oils. Phthalates are also present in, and can evaporate from, soft vinyl (PVC) toys, flooring and other products, which should be avoided. For more information, search for "phthalates" at www.thegreenguide.com.

Preservatives

Bronopol, often listed as 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, can contribute to the formation of cancer-causing nitrosamines, according to the FDA. It can also break down to produce formaldehyde (see below).

Formaldehyde, found in eye shadows, mascaras and other cosmetics, is "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen," according to the National Toxicology Program's "Ninth Report on Carcinogens" (January 2001)**. The EPA classifies it as a probable human carcinogen.

In its liquid state, formaldehyde, present in the ingredients DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea imidazolidinyl urea and quaternium-15, can be absorbed through the skin and nails. As a volatile organic compound, or VOC, formaldehyde evaporates when the product is wet; levels drop sharply once it's dry. Consumer concern has led many manufacturers to remove it from their nail polishes.

Health Problems: Breathing formaldehyde fumes has been associated with many types of cancers, including those of the nose and throat. Levels of formaldehyde in air as low as 0.1 ppm (parts per million) can cause burning sensations in the eyes, nose and throat; nausea, coughing and wheezing.

Imidazolidinyl urea can trigger contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

Mercury: a tiny amount of this potent nervous-system toxin, which accumulates in the body, is allowed as a preservative in eye-area cosmetics.

The parabens: Methyl-, propyl-, ethyl- and butylparaben are the most common preservatives used in cosmetics.

Health Problems: Common allergens. Some recent research shows that parabens can mimic estrogen in rodents, making them potential hormone disruptors.

Quaternary ammonium compounds can irritate the skin and eyes. Quaternium-15 causes more dermatitis complaints than any other preservative, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Healthier Preservatives: Vitamins A (retinoic acid), C (ascorbic acid), E (tocopherol), citric acid, pycnogenol.

Surfactants -- Sudsing/Foaming Agents

Suds-making detergents, known as surfactants, in shampoos also promote absorption of the product by the skin.

Diethanolamine (DEA), widely used in shampoos, is a suspected carcinogen, and its compounds and derivatives include triethanolamine (TEA), which can be contaminated with nitrosamines -- compounds shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals. Contamination is more likely if the product also contains Bronopol (see above).

Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) are both irritants, says the Cosmetics Ingredient Review (CIR), a panel of cosmetics-industry experts established to safety-test ingredients (cir-safety.org). But the CIR reported that SLS also causes "severe epidermal changes" to mouse skin, a finding that "indicates a need for tumor-enhancing activity assays." This year, after review of over 250 existing SLS studies, the CIR concluded that SLS is not cancer-causing. However, Samuel Epstein, M.D., says he is not convinced and recommends avoiding SLS.

Other Ingredients to Avoid

Aluminum chlorohydrate, a wetness retardant used in antiperspirants, can cause allergic reactions.

Ammonia, used in hair dyes and bleaches, can irritate the eyes and skin and can be toxic when inhaled.

Mineral oil, found in many moisturizers, comes from petroleum, a nonrenewable resource.

Peroxide, used in hair-coloring products, can irritate the skin of hands and scalp and damage hair and eyes.

Phenylenediamine (PPD), found in many hair dyes, is linked with skin irritations, respiratory disorders and cancers, and is banned in Europe.

Polyethylene and polyethylene glycol (PEG ingredients), found in hair straighteners, antiperspirants and baby-care products, are safe in themselves but can be contaminated with 1,4- dioxane, which produced liver cancer in rodents in National Cancer Institute (NCI) studies.

Polysorbate compounds 60 and 80 are emulsifiers, used in lotions and creams, that can also become contaminated with the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane.

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), widely used in hair-care products, especially sprays, has been found to stay in the body for months. In rats it contributed to tumor development.

Propylene glycol, a humectant, or moisture-attracting ingredient, found in mascara, lotions, creams and other cosmetics, can irritate skin in sensitive individuals.

Talc, a mineral found in many face and body powders, has a structure similar to that of asbestos, which has been linked to lung and ovarian cancers. Healthier alternative: cornstarch (but, like any powder, can cause breathing problems)

Toluene, a solvent, is found in some nail polishes. It is a nervous-system toxin.

Triclosan, an antibacterial agent found in deodorants and other products, is overused and is linked to antibiotic-resistant disease, says the Alliance for the Prudent Use of Antibiotics (www.apua.org).