5 Skin Treatments for Stretch Marks

August 16th, 2012

Are you aware that there are various forms of skin treatments for stretch marks? Read this page to differentiate one from the other.

Stretch marks are discolored indentation on the skin that looks like lines or stripes. They occur on parts of the body where skin had stretched rapidly like during pregnancy, growth spurts during puberty or rapid weight gain or weight loss. Although stretch marks are harmless and they usually fade in due time, they are unsightly to look at, that’s why many people are looking for certain treatments to reduce their appearance. Here are specific skin treatments for stretch marks.

Skin Treatment #1: Topical Treatments

There are several products that can be rubbed into the stretch marks such as creams and lotions. They are available in drug stores without prescription needed. If your stretch marks are new, applying retinoin cream can help improve its appearance especially if the stretch marks have only been visible for the past 6 weeks and the color is red or pink. The cream with retinoin repairs the connective tissue in the skin called collagen thus making the stretch marks resemble normal and undamaged skin. However, the MayoClinic warns against using retinoin if you are pregnant. Pregnant women or expectant mothers should discuss with their doctor about preventive measures for stretch marks.

Skin Treatment #2: Laser Treatments

There are several laser treatments that can be used for stretch marks like excimer laser, fractional photothermolysis and pulsed dye laser therapy. Excimer laser treatment is used to help stretch marks gain back normal color through the stimulation of melanin production which is responsible for the color of the hair and skin. Fractional photothermolysis and pulsed dye laser therapy is a procedure which helps reduce the visibility of stretch marks through stimulation of skin’s collagen and elastin connective tissue to grow. Skin is said to heal faster with the use of fractional photothermolysis. Remember though that the success of laser treatments depends on one’s age, diet and skin color.

Skin Treatment #3: Skin Removal Treatments

The skin removal is a method of removing a portion of the outermost layer of the skin to help make old and new stretch marks less noticeable. These options include chemical peels, dermbrasion and microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion involves the use of an instrument that blows crystals on the skin surface. These crystals scrape off skin cells and a vacuum sucks them off so that a new skin will replace the removed outer layer. Like laser treatments, age, eating habits and the natural color of the skin influence the effectiveness of the treatment.

Skin Treatment #4: Endermologie

This makes use of a special machine which is developed in France. With the use of rollers and gentle suction, the endermologie machine deeply massages the stretched marked areas thus increasing circulation. It also expels built up water and toxins in the connective tissue as they are stretched. However to achieve positive results, this requires a series of treatments which lasts for half an hour and must be done by a trained technician.

Skin Treatment #5: At-Home Options

Skin care experts say that one way to ward off stretch marks is to keep your skin soft and supple. This can be done by drinking plenty of water. If you already have stretch marks and want to cover it up, you can use body make up that has a shade which nearly matches your skin color to make them less visible.

Skin treatments for stretch marks do vary from one type to another. You may always opt for the least expensive ones are go for costlier alternatives.

Posted in Skin Care | No Comments »

Detoxification: Your Health Is In Your Hands

February 20th, 2007

Many people would rather sit prettily and wait for the doctor to give them instructions on what to do with their current condition. Moreover, they would rather stay in the market and purchase over the counter medications rather than applying home remedies and solutions for their health. Do you think this picture of lifestyle is preferable? Preferably no. This lifestyle pictures dependency and lack of self-motivation in improving one’s self. You should know that if you want a better health, you also do your part in making it happen. Doctors, specialists, as well as experts may be doing their tasks, but this does not mean that you would also forget that you have an obligation to take care of yourself.

People are just very dazed to say that the work they have to do for their health would be risky and difficult. If it is unmanageable, then why would other people choose to prefer self-medication? Do you think that they would put their life at risk in doing selecting such choice? You should bear in mind that you are the only one who is making it grueling. There are options, ways, as well as selections which would give you health guide. You are just making yourself blind and ignorant because of dependency.

If you want detoxification, for instance, would you go directly to a doctor right ahead? If your answer is yes, then you are still wrong with your option. In order to detoxify your skin, there are ways that could be done without any medical assistance. You could just focus on your diet as well as lifestyle routines. Here are some of the following options:

  • Eating Fiber-Rich Fruits

These would certainly help you cleanse your system and give you better digestive process, which would then supplement you with the right nutrients and minerals all throughout.

  • Taking Herbs

In order to detoxify your body with the right liver protection, you could simply trust the herbs. These herbs would provide healthy nutrients and support, such as those coming from green tea, dandelion root, burdock and milk thistle.

  • Vitamin C Consumption

Vitamin C would also help in detoxifying your body. It would be aiding in the formation and supplication of glutathione, which is a compound in the liver that would remove the toxins and bad elements in the organ. This could give you full protection from liver diseases.

  • Drinking Water

Detoxification would not be effective without water. You need to drink water for at least two quarts daily in amount. This would help you replenish your system every time. Don’t overlook that with water, unnecessary elements in your body would also be eliminated.

These options would relatively give you better health in no time. Once you have tried these selections, you would definitely say that better awareness of health options would be better than relying to specialists all the time. Moreover, it is definite that learning more about detoxification would be an urge to you right after you have seen the results from the above health options.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Detoxification | No Comments »

Drug Abuse Awareness: Facts About Drugs

November 9th, 2006

Let’s start this article by saying “Do not take drugs!” There are so many reasons why you should refrain from using drugs. The problem with using drugs is that it can lead to drug or substance abuse. And once you become addicted to it, it would really be so hard to quit till it’s already too late. Educating yourself about drugs and drug abuse can really help protect yourself from it. The more knowledge you have about its effects to the body and mind, the stronger you become in resisting the temptation. Here are some facts about drugs that you should know in order for you to be more aware.

  • Different Types of Drugs

There are different types of drugs, which can cause different reactions and responses to the mind and body. In fact, alcohol and caffeine are considered as drugs. However, they are legal because they are not really that harmful. The effect of taking drugs varies from drugs to drugs. This means that there are drugs with mild and tolerable effect. However, there are also drugs that have frightening result, which can even be fatal depending on the tolerance of the one taking the drugs. Some of the common drugs are cocaine, mandrax, ecstasy, heroin, dagga, methamphetamines, marijuana, and so many others.   There are pure drugs and there are man-made drugs. Pure ones are those derived from natural substances like plants, while man-made ones are mixed. There are three categories of drugs: hallucinogens, uppers, and downers.

  1. Hallucinogens are the kind of drugs that can cause severe hallucinations which can really alter your perception of reality. The hallucinations vary from person to person, as there are users who enjoy trippy dreams, while there are those who suffer from nightmares. The most common hallucinogens are LSD and mescaline.
  2. Uppers are drugs that are made to make someone feel great, energized, dynamic, and alive, which is why many are addicted to it. However, the use of such drugs can cause paranoia, nervousness, and anxiety. Long term use of such drugs can even cause nerve damage, sleeplessness, heart strain, and depression. Examples of uppers are crack-cocaine, cocaine, speed, and ecstasy.
  3. Downers are the kind of drugs that are designed to make you feel relaxed. However, you don’t have control over such relaxation, making you lethargic and inutile. Frequent use of this drug can turn you into a dysfunctional member of the community. Too much of such drugs can even cause coma, even death. These drugs include mandrax, heroin, and dagga.

Keep in mind that the effect of drugs depends from person to person. So don’t believe if someone says that this and that drug is cool, and that it’s not addictive, dangerous, and what-not. Remember that all illegal drugs are dangerous. Continual use of these drugs make you become a danger to yourself, to your family, and the society. Although drugs have certain effects that can somehow make you feel alive and happy, do think that they also have negative effects to your body and mind. Don’t risk your life. Don’t take drugs.

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Drug Abuse | No Comments »

The Importance of STD Awareness

July 13th, 2006

Many people suffer from Sexually Transmitted Diseases than we think. The prime reason why there is no exact statistics regarding the number of STD cases in the country is that a lot of people of STDs are either afraid or shy to talk to their healthcare providers regarding their condition. Because of this, there is a need for healthcare providers to come up with a right approach to communicate with these people with STDs. The social stigma towards people with STDs should also be lessen so that people will be more open with their disease. That way, it will be easier for healthcare providers to detect, prevent, and manage the STD cases in the country.

  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases

STD comprises a number of diseases that can be transmitted through anal sex, oral sex, and intercourse. STD is also now being called as Sexually Transmitted Infections because this term is said to be more accurate than the first. STDs can also be transmitted through IV drug needles and blood, especially in the cases of HIV and AIDS. There are many forms of STDs. The most common type of STDs includes genital herpes, gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Candidiasis, syphilis, and the highly fatal AIDS. There are several causes of STDs. The most common is bacterial as in the case of syphilis, gonorrhea, chancroid, and Chlamydia. It can also be caused by a Fungus as in the case of Candidiasis. Virus can also cause STDs just like in viral hepatitis, HPV, HIV, Herpes complex, and CMV. Other causes include Protozoa and Parasites.

  • Symptoms and Treatments

The symptoms of STD vary from one type of STD to another. As mentioned above, there are many types of STDs, which affect different parts of the body mainly the genitals and the sexually active regions. There are also many treatments available depending the type of STD one has. You must be familiar with the symptoms of the different forms of STDs so that you can immediately have it checked by your physician. You shouldn’t be embarrassed if you think you have STDs. Approach the doctor as soon as possible for immediate treatment and remedy. This is very important so that you will be able to prevent the life-threatening effects of certain STDs. This is also important so that you won’t infect other people especially when you don’t have a stable partner.

Preventing STDs is very important. The number of STD cases is already quite alarming. So we should practice safe sex by using condoms and other safe sex paraphernalia. There are also vaccines available in order to prevent certain types of STDs. But the best way to prevent STDs is to always maintain a sexual hygiene. It is also important that you don’t often switch from partners to partners. Refrain from having sex with strangers. As much as possible, only have sex with those whom you think you can trust and whom you think doesn’t have STDs. It is time to make a campaign against STDs and unsafe sex. Sex is good, but only if done safely and healthily.

Tags: , ,
Posted in STD Diseases | No Comments »

Awareness on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

April 2nd, 2006

April is the month for STD awareness, which an annual event is made to promote STD testing throughout the nation and to educate and call the people’s attention regarding the impact of STDs. It’s two months past April. But that doesn’t meant that our awareness and advocacy towards the prevention and management of Sexually Transmitted Diseases should stop. Let us treat each month as if it were STD awareness month.

  • STD cases

The number of STD cases across the country has been growing. Statistics shows that most people with STDs are those who are in the Adolescent and Young Adult brackets. Half of the patients with STD are people aging between 15 and 24. So it is really common in the young ones, which is quite alarming. This is the reason why healthcare providers should really focus on solving this problem, by lessening the cases of STDs in the country, especially HIV and AIDS. The primary and perhaps the best way to increase STD awareness and to prevent further cases of STDs is to educate the young patients about the importance of healthy and safe sex. Sexual health education can really make a difference. There are number of ways to increase the patients’ awareness on how to handle, treat, manage, or prevent STDS.

  • Talking About STDs

Healthcare providers should really be the ones who will open up the subject about STDs. Most patients, especially the younger ones, are afraid or shy to start the conversation about STD. It’s the job of the healthcare providers to make the patients feel comfortable about the whole “talking” procedure. The focus of STD awareness should be the adolescents and young adults, mainly because half of the STD cases in the country affect people aging from 15 to 24. Healthcare providers should do something about this so that STD patients will be able to prevent further complications and long-term health consequences.

  • Screening the Patients for STDs

Since the number of STD cases in the country has increased, there should be more STD screening given to those who are sexually active, especially those who don’t have stable partners. A screening is the best way to prevent the occurrence of STDs. It is also necessary in detecting the STDs at an early stage, which in turn helps prevent further complications and life-threatening effects of untreated STDs. A program like this should be promoted especially to those who are aging 15-24. Following this awareness and prevention program can really help lessen the number of STD cases in the future.

  • Information

Patients with STDs should really be well-informed regarding their condition. This is important so that they will know what to do and how to deal with their condition. This is important so that the patients will be properly guided throughout the “healing” procedure.

Remember that Sexually Transmitted Diseases can lead to complications and can be life-threatening if left untreated. So if you are sexually active, get an STD screening once in a while, especially if you are having sex with different partners. And as always, practice a safe sex.

Tags: , ,
Posted in STD Diseases | No Comments »

Increase Your Awareness Against Drug Abuse

January 12th, 2006

The numbers of people suffering from drug abuse have increased over the years. And the sadder thing is that most victims of substance abuse are teenagers and young adults. Despite the movements against drugs, there are still many people who create, sell, buy, and use drugs. The dangerous thing about drugs, in addition to their harmful effects to the body and mind, is that they are highly addictive. And you know that addiction is the hardest to get away from. Once you’ve become addicted, you’ll surely find it very hard to quit the addiction. So while you’re still not addicted, please, don’t take drugs.

  • Misconception About Drugs

There are several reasons why people take drugs. But there also many reasons why you shouldn’t take drugs. Now, let’s start with why people take drugs. People take drugs because they think it makes them cooler, as though it affirms their being a cool human being. People also take drugs because they want to enhance their abilities. People take drugs because drug turns them into a “superhuman.” People take drugs because it boosts their confidence. People also take drugs because they think drugs are the solutions to their problems. People use drugs because they believe that it’s the best way to escape from reality. Whatever the reason, taking drugs is plain wrong. These are the common reasons that people tell you when they want to convince you to take drugs. Yes, it is true that drugs can provide a sense of peace, a colorful world, a wonderful trip, a well-being, an gratification, and so many other “beautiful” things. But the negative effects always outweigh the “good.”

  • Negative Effects of Drugs

When people take drugs, all they think about is being happy. All they think about is escaping the reality. But truth is there’s no other way of escaping reality but facing it. Many think that drugs lift their lives and solve their problems. But in truth, drugs can only worsen your problems. Drugs can even make your life tougher and more miserable than it already is. Here are the things that you should know about drugs:

  • Drugs make you lose your control.
  • Drugs make you vulnerable to physical, or even sexual, assault.
  • Drugs make a danger to yourself and others.
  • You have no control over your response to the drug.
  • Drugs are highly addictive.
  • Drugs are harmful and can affect you physically, biologically, socially, emotionally, and psychologically.
  • Drugs can kill you.

You may have ten reasons why you should take drugs. But there are countless of reasons why you shouldn’t. Aside from the fact that drugs are illegal, drugs are harmful and dangerous in many ways. Drugs may make you high, happy, alive, and energized at first. But it all leads to you ending up living a miserable life. It can even land you in jail, mental facility, hospital, or much worse, straight to your grave. So don’t waste your life taking drugs and living a “trippy life.” Face the reality, solve your problems without the need of chemicals, and live a normal life.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Drug Abuse | No Comments »

Detoxification: Learning Its Basics And Process Is A Must

October 23rd, 2005

People would always forget to take heed the importance of learning first before executing an action. Due to this, they often commit mistakes that later on give them unlikely health conditions. Do you know why? This is because of the fact that there are health actions, such as treatments, that would vary depending on your health history as well as sensitivities. You may trigger your sensitivities if you would apply a certain treatment or therapy. On the other hand, your expectation of the treatment support for your health would be the opposite for you may have misinterpreted the therapy.

Because of these misconceptions, there is nothing better than studying things first before carrying a step. You should take note of the proceedings first since you would never know the effect not until you try the treatment.  In terms of detoxification, it is still important to study about the facts circulating in this treatment. Basically, this is due to the reason that there are certain actions or steps that you may not want to execute or is unfit for your current condition. Because of this, this article would relatively give you an overview regarding detoxification. Here are the following important points of the process:

  • The Detoxification Wonder

This process is actually the process of cleansing the blood in your body. This is relatively done by washing the impurities away from the blood in the liver, where filtering is mostly done and eliminating the toxins is taking place. Aside from the liver, you could expect this process to aid in removing the toxins in different organs, such as skin, intestines, lymph and lungs. But this process does not compromise total purity of your system since sometimes there are places where cells are affected, which signals danger.

  • Detoxification Benefits

There are more specific benefits this process could offer your body. First, in this process, you would be asked to abstain from food. Due to this process, you would be resting your organs and gear them up at the right time. It is like refreshing your system for a while and avoiding tension to be left in them. On the other hand, liver would have much owe since it would be stimulated while you remove the toxins in your body. Moreover, improving circulation of blood would carry more advantages than it seems. Lastly, right after different filtering processes, you would replace toxins with healthy nutrients and minerals.

  • Detoxification Requirement Signal

You would know that you need to detoxify if you haven’t filtered toxins in your blood and body for a year or years. You should take note that detoxification must at least be done once a year. If you want assurance, there would already be a requirement for doctor’s prescription.

These important facts about detoxification would relatively help you all the way to understand how the process would go. With better understanding, you would prevent mistakes and keep your body healthy in the best way possible through the smallest cells in the system to the largest units of human body.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Detoxification | No Comments »