Friday, July 31, 2009

Terms You Need To Know When Choosing A Sunscreen

By John Maltakiso

Protecting yourself from the harmful affects of the sun is crucial in keeping the skin healthy and wrinkle-free. Sunscreen helps by reflecting, taking in, and/or scattering harmful radiation the sun casts on earth.

Sunscreen comes in many different forms: lotion, spray, gel, cream, and sometimes makeup. Not using sunscreen can give unwanted aging of the skin, and sometimes, skin cancer.

When selecting a sunscreen, it is important to be able to read the bottle for what type of sunscreen you are applying. There are many terms that might not make sense to everyone; some of them are:

* UVA (Ultraviolet A) - This unseen ultraviolet radiation has a long wavelength that reaches far into layers of the skin. These rays are bad because they can enter the skin without the person knowing it.

* UVB (Ultraviolet B) - UVB is a kind of light that the sun radiates. The wavelength of this kind of radiation is smaller than UVA and is known to cause sunburn and other skin problems.

* SPF (Sun Protection Factor) - This term denotes the strength of protection that a given sunscreen gives for sun exposure. A number is issued to each bottle of sunscreen indicating the strength of it. The higher number provides more protection than the lower sunscreens. It is suggested that people being exposed to the sun use at minimum, SPF 15 to the skin regularly and reapply when necessary.

* UVR (Ultraviolet Radiation) - This is actual radiation from the sun that causes premature aging, spots, sunburn, crows feet, and skin cancer in some. Furthermore, UVR rays can reduce the effectiveness of one's immune system.

* Water Resistant - Some sunscreens are good and water resistant in that repel water and allow the lotion to stick to the skin better. Swimmers can continue to swim for longer without having to reapply and still be protected. However, it is a good idea to reapply sunscreen, even if it is water resistant, because it looses its effectiveness through prolonged exposure to water. Water resistant does not equal water proof.

Not only do you have to be informed on the different terms on sunscreen labels, there are also two different types of sunscreens: physical blocks and chemical combatants. Physical blockers do just that - they physically block harmful rays of the sun by reflecting back the harmful UVA and UVB radiation. Chemical blockers on the other hand absorb some of the radiation; typically the ones with shorter wavelengths.

Whichever type you purchase, it is important to apply and reapply when needed. Sunscreens will be as effective as you let them - people being exposed to a lot of sun must rub on thoroughly and reapply throughout the day. The sun can be a great and magnificent source of sunlight for activities. However, it can be nasty and harmful if you do not protect the exposed skin. Knowing what to look for in a sunscreen can also help to reduce the chances of serious, permanent skin damage and other unwanted skin conditions.

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Thursday, July 30, 2009

Pool Shade Solutions-Really What Are They?

By Lisa Shade

When you offer some kind of shade to your swimming pool area, you will soon discover just how much enjoyment the whole family can experience. Protection from the sun is the most important reason to shade your pool area. We have all been on the receiving end of the nasty effects of sunburn at some time in the past and we know it can seriously damage our health. Not only this, we know how cancer may be caused by the ultraviolet rays or our skin can take on a wrinkly appearance when exposed to the sun for long periods of time. Dont you think it would be fabulous to be able to swim or relax around your pool without having these kinds of worries? Well, if you provide a shaded section of your pool area, you can do just that!

There are many kinds of shades for you to choose from and they are made from several different colored materials, so no matter what your choice there will be something perfect for your pool. For the most part, the shades are easy to install as they come with detailed instructions which are straightforward to follow.

If you want to cover the whole area of your pool you can opt for a shade which does exactly this. Supporting poles are strategically placed around the pool so holes need to be dug as foundations and filled with concrete to secure the poles. This, of course, is a more permanent kind of pool covering and if you change your mind later, you must bear in mind you will have to take a sledgehammer to the concrete to loosen the poles for removal and put your pool area back to its original state.

Cover sails hung horizontally over the pool are a great way to provide shade for those using the pool area. They are functional and not only that, they look good too.

There are also some good umbrella style pool shades, but they don't cover the entire pool. These will however cover a significant portion of the pool meaning that you can have a small space off to the side to sit and relax out of the hot sun, while those who enjoy the warmth can have fun and splash around with everyone else while you just sit there and relax. It really is an awesome setup that you can try out.

You can cluster the umbrellas together at various points around your pool so you have several shady areas if you want. This is a great idea if you have regular visitors popping over for a swim. Your pool area will look vibrant if you make use of the many color ways available.

If you want to have a great experience in your swimming pool, then a pool shade is definitely the way to go, so give it a try, you'll love it!

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The Causes of Diabetes

By Barb Hicks

During the course of many decades, scientists have labored over researching why the pancreas ceases to produce insulin or why the insulin it does produce is ineffective to the body. There is however one discovery. A mutant gene passed through the ages from our ancestors may be the cause of this phenomenon. Other possible causes include:

Potbelly/Over Weight Stress/Anxiety Infections of the Pancreas, Genetics Inactivity Cholesterol/Triglyceride Elevations

You will find that most risk factors responsible for diabetes are also factors that exist for heart disease.

Diabetes is the increased levels of blood glucose levels in the body caused by insufficient insulin or production or ineffective insulin. The effects of this are frequent urination or polyuria and excessive thirst or polydipsia. A hormone secreted by the pancreas, insulin raises glucose levels which are then turned into energy the body uses as fuel.

The body's reaction to insufficient insulin:

When insulin is produced but the body fails to use it appropriately, it is said the body is resistant to insulin. A second reaction is when the body does not produce enough insulin to change glucose into energy. In both cases the insulin is inefficient and causes blood glucose levels to rise in the blood.

Is there a cure?

Unfortunately there is at present no cure. However, scientists and physicians are exploring many new, exciting, experimental procedures which have shown a very positive success rate. These new procedures include;

Pancreatic Transplant: For those with uncontrolled Type 1 DM, but have a functioning kidney. Thankfully, these patients no longer need insulin injections to keep them alive. Additionally, their risks for developing complications associated with diabetes are greatly decreased.

Kidney/Pancreas Transplant: Reserved for patients who have substantial kidney failure as well as uncontrolled Type 1 diabetes. This surgical procedure allows the patient to be free of dialysis treatments and insulin injections. Patients who avoid rejecting their organs in the first year after surgery have a greater likelihood of non-rejection for 10 years and more.

Transplant of Islets: Islets of Langerhans are beta cells in the pancreas. While this procedure is still in its clinical trial, it involves the islets of a deceased donor to be injected into a diabetic patients liver. Once completed, the cells begin to produce insulin which the body uses to regulate blood sugar levels.

In a study of patients who received islet transplants, five out of thirty-six still remain free of the need for insulin two years after the procedure. Although these procedures are experimental and not yet approved by the FDA, they have all shown positive results.

Searching for a cure for diabetes is an on-going battle. However, scientists are hopeful that a cure will present itself in the not so distant future as modern medicine continues to make advances. Until then, lifestyle changes for those with diabetes is a great start to living a long, healthy and productive life despite having this damaging disease.

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Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Why Using Mineral Foundation is Good for Your Skin

By Connor R Sullivan

One of the greatest things one can do for their skin is to use natural cosmetics. Mineral foundation and mineral makeup helps your skin by working with any medication and skin tone instead of causing harm to the skin like some cosmetics tend to do. Also, natural cosmetics normally have components that defend the skin during any season or any part of the day. Since the idea of natural cosmetics is to produce a natural look, the makeup is simple to use and to apply. Also, a natural makeup look has become increasingly fashionable among women today.

Natural makeup has is able to do wonders for your skin. Natural cosmetics have components that aid in guarding the skin against the sun. They also help assist in defending against drying of the skin as natural cosmetics often have the ability to moisturize your skin, unlike regular makeup. Natural cosmetics also are able to work with any moisturizer or medication you use since the ingredients in the cosmetics are natural. Occasionally, diverse chemicals used in normal makeup may respond negatively with any kind of sunscreen or medication which produces pain and irritation on your skin. Instead of attempting to avoid a reaction normal makeup, numerous consumers are choosing natural makeup to enhance the face and to help defend the skin, while working with any medication or sunscreen.

Natural makeup offers effortlessness when putting on the makeup. Because the idea behind natural makeup is to create a natural look, the procedure for application is simple. There is not the necessity to double check the shade is right for your skin tone as with normal makeup. Many times only one or two coats will be enough for your skin making the method of putting the makeup on easy and swift. Since many women lead a busy lifestyle nowadays, applying makeup quickly creates a more simple way of living The ease of use and ease of application most likely is one of the main reasons why natural looking makeup has become so popular recently.

The natural look has become the most sought after look as of right now. The natural look is most fashionable now because a lot of women do not want others to know they are wearing makeup. Women also do not want to do damage to their skin while wearing cosmetics. Secondly, the look is popular since natural cosmetics have the ability to match any skin tone. With normal makeup, occasionally the skin appears to be made up because the color of the foundation is either too light or too dark. Natural makeup has infinite possibilities of shades so, there is a color for everyone. The demand for natural makeup appears to be unending

It is easy to see why natural makeup is the paramount cosmetic to use for your skin. Natural cosmetics assist in shielding the skin unlike regular cosmetics. They are also the simplest to use and to apply. Finally, the natural look has increased in popularity because women do not want to advertise that they are wearing makeup. So, if you are wanting a makeup that will aid in creating a natural look, then natural makeup is the best option.

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Friday, July 10, 2009

Many Women are Using Mineral Makeup, Here's Why!

By Connor R Sullivan

The finest thing one can do for their skin is to use natural cosmetics. Mineral foundation and mineral makeup helps your skin by working with any medication and skin tone instead of causing harm to the skin like some cosmetics tend to do. Also, natural cosmetics normally have components that defend the skin during any season or any part of the day. Given that the intention of natural cosmetics is to produce a natural look, the makeup is simple to use and to apply. Also, a natural makeup look has become better appreciated among women today.

Natural makeup has the ability to do wonders for your skin. Natural cosmetics have components that aid in guarding the skin against the sun. They also help assist in defending against drying of the skin as natural cosmetics often have the ability to moisturize your skin, unlike regular makeup. Natural cosmetics also have the ability work with any moisturizer or medication you use since the ingredients in the cosmetics are natural. From time to time, dissimilar chemicals used in normal makeup may respond negatively with any kind of sunscreen or medication setting off pain and irritation on your skin. Instead of attempting to avoid a reaction normal makeup, lots of ladies are choosing natural makeup to enhance the face and to help defend the skin, while working with any medication or sunscreen.

Natural makeup offers simple use and ease of application Because the idea behind natural makeup is to create a natural look, the method of putting the makeup on is simple. There is not the necessity to double check the shade is right for your skin tone as with normal makeup. Typically, only one or two coats will be enough for your skin making the procedure of application easy and swift. Since many women lead a busy lifestyle nowadays, applying makeup quickly creates a more simple way of living The ease of use and ease of application most likely is one of the main reasons why natural looking makeup has become so popular recently.

The natural look has become the more fashionable look as of right now. The natural look is most fashionable now because most ladies do not want others to know they are wearing makeup. Women also do not want to do damage to their skin while wearing cosmetics. Secondly, the look is popular since natural cosmetics have the ability to match any skin tone. With normal makeup, occasionally the skin appears to be made up because the color of the foundation is either too light or too dark. Natural makeup offers unlimited amounts of colors so, there is a color for everyone. The demand for natural makeup appears to be unending

It is easy to see why natural makeup is the paramount cosmetic to use for your skin. Natural cosmetics assist in shielding the skin unlike regular cosmetics. They are also the least complicated to use and to apply. Finally, the natural look has increased in popularity because women do not want to advertise that they are wearing makeup. So, if you are wanting a makeup that will aid in creating a natural look, then natural makeup is the best option.

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Thursday, July 9, 2009

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms Do You Know How To Spot Them?

By Adelle Emily

It seems that more and more women are becoming concerned with the symptoms of ovarian cysts. This is because when women reach the age of reproduction; then they most likely will find themselves facing this issue. Research shows that this condition affects millions of women in our society.

Unfortunately you will discover that most women do not have any idea what an ovarian cysts is and that it can be treated. In fact most women who have this problem are learning how to live with it; however you should be aware that you can begin taking steps to treat this problem without using medications or surgery.

I do not want to confuse you before I go further I want to explain what some of the symptoms of ovarian cysts are so you can spot them. I believe that if you are a women; then you should definitely want to know more about this fast growing problem.

You should be well aware that most of the ovarian cysts that form are benign tumors on a woman. You should know that they will not cause cancer; however anyone who has ever discovered that they have one tend to become extremely fearful.

In fact most women become fearful because they understand that they will most likely suffer from some painful side effects of this problem. Women who have ever suffered from this problem have been told that they can not have a baby.

If you are a woman then you will want to know that it is possible to treat this condition without having to use drugs or surgery.

Most likely you may be aware that it is possible to use holistic methods to get rid of this problem. Be sure to visit our site below to find out how to stop living with the cysts on ovaries and begin treating them naturally.

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Saturday, July 4, 2009

Its A UV Cover Up! Shade Sails Suspected

By Lee Renolds

Sails from ships was where the invention of the first shade sails originated. It was the enormous material that was locked in the corners. The development of the shade sails to protect us from the harmful UV rays is paramount for the bronzed Aussie. Australians are more prone to skin cancer than anyone else on the planet

Due to the Ultra violet rays intensifying in the midday sun we are more likely to do greater damage to our skin. Other forms of weather can also be minimized due to new technologies and advancements in shade sails to give us maximum sun protection.

What is important to remember and get our heads around are Ultra violet Protection Factor or UPF. This is the rating they use and helps to give a gauge of materials to protect skin from Ultra Violet Rays and prevent skin cancer. So if the protection factor gets stronger we will have increased protection against those nasty Ultra Violet Rays.

If you are the type of person that likes to do things for yourself then you will just love to build a shade sail. The following is basic instructions on constructing a shade sail that will add to the charm of your back yard. The materials you will need are:

Tarp Thread, Sewing Machine, Three metal poles, Water, A tape measure, Cement mix, Scissors, Canvas,Coupling hardware, Rope, Post hole digger

1st step is to measure an area that the shade sail will be protecting. Now you want to work out the measurement of canvas you will need to do the job. You will need to sew the edges with a sewing machine.

Step two: You are going to dig holes for the three corners that you plan to shade. Place a pole in each hole and pour prepared cement into the holes and allow to set.

The 3rd step is to place all your fixings hardware onto the poles.

Step four: This is where you run the rope starting from each of the corners to the couplings. Then it's just a matter of hoisting the fabric, making sure the material is taut and then tie the rope securely to the poles.

Construction of a shade sail can be abit much and you want to outsource then there are such companies like..JKE Shade Pty Ltd. They deal in commercial grade shade cloth. JKE Shade has a range of DIY kits for the Pool, Entertainment areas and anywhere in the yard. JKE's most popular colors are slate, sand and yellow. The shade sails are so effective that only 1% of UV Radiation can get through. There is a wide range of colours to choose from to colour match anything you have in your yard.

If the nasty Ultra violet rays are affecting the health of your family then you should be looking at calling in some professionals to offer advice. You want only the highest quality shade sails that offer 99% protection from the UV

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Sunday, June 28, 2009

Skin Cancer - 1,000,000 Americans Will Get It In 2009!

By Richard H Ealom

INTRODUCTION: Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy, well ahead of lung, breast, colorectal and prostate cancer. The disease generally develops in the epidermis (the outer most skin layer), so a tumor is usually clearly visible.

When left untreated, it can be very dangerous, but with early discovery and intervention most are curable. There are 3 common types of skin cancer, each of which is named after the kind of skin cell from which it arises. More than one million US residents will be diagnosed with skin cancer in 2008.

CAUSE: Skin cancer is an abnormal growth on the skin which can have many causes. It is often caused by exposing skin to UV rays excessively. Cancers caused by Ultraviolet exposure may be prevented by avoiding excessive exposure to sunlight or other UV sources, and wearing sun-protecting garments.

A lot of people go out of their way to get an artificial tan before they leave for a sunny vacation, because they want to get a "base coat" to minimize sun damage. Sunburn, brought on by a kind of ultraviolet (UV) light known as UVB, has served as a surrogate for far more serious conditions such as melanoma and basal and squamous cell carcinoma, 3 forms of skin cancer.

RISK: Although it is not possible to completely eliminate the possibility of developing skin cancer, the risk of developing such a cancer can be greatly reduced with the following steps: reduce the exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, especially in the early years, avoid getting sunburned (NOTE: Recent studies have shown that sunscreen does not protect from melanoma). Even though it is readily accepted that UV exposure is the greatest risk factor in developing melanoma, some skeptics say that there is no proven data that links moderate sun exposure with the appearance of melanoma.

The chances of acquiring skin cancer is also affected by where a person lives. People who live in areas that receive the highest levels of Ultraviolet radiation from the sun are more apt to develop skin cancer. In the US, for example, skin cancer is found more often in Texas than it is in Minnesota, where the sun is not as strong. Internationally, the highest rates of skin cancer are found in South Africa and Australia, which are areas that receive very high amounts of UV radiation.

TYPES: The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) which may be locally disfiguring but are unlikely to metastasize (spread to other parts of the body). The most dangerous type of skin cancer is malignant melanoma.

TREATMENT: Nearly all skin cancers can be treated by removal of the lesion, making sure that the edges (margins) are free of the cancerous cells. However,it is important that the tumors are found and treated early because they can invade and destroy nearby tissue.

CONCLUSION: Skin cancer is the most common form of human malignancies and is also known as skin neoplasia. The use of sunscreen is recommended by medical authorities as a preventative to help protect against skin cancer (NOTE: New studies however have shown that sunscreen offers no protection from melanoma). Approximately 65 percent of melanomas and 90% of basal and squamous cell skin cancers are attributed to Utraviolet exposure. Even though it is rare, malignant melanoma is responsible for 75% of all skin cancer related death cases.

It has also been estimated that nearly half of all Americans who live to age 65 will develop skin cancer at least once. The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change in the appearance of the skin, such as a new growth or a sore that will not heal. Most skin cancers appear after age 50, but the sun's damaging effects begin at an early age. Therefore, protection should start in childhood in order to prevent skin cancer later in life.

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Sponsored by Storyline Health

Is There A Direct Relationship Between Skin Cancer And The Sun?

By Kathy Forcey

On gorgeous summer days, people often spend a day at the beach basking in the sun. But we are now aware that the sun can be problematic for our skin, causing problems from premature aging to skin cancer.

Most people already know that they should wear sunscreen when they go outside. However, few people actually apply sunscreen every time they leave the house. Usually, we only think about putting on sunscreen when we expect to be outside all day. We've all heard the warnings to wear sunscreen and avoid too much sun exposure. Unfortunately, young people tend to disregard these warnings and don't think seriously about skin cancer.

It is important that you keep your skin protected from the sun regardless of your age. The harmful effects of overexposure to the sun may not show up for years but it will eventually begin to take its toll. That is why when you are young you should take care to prevent the damaging effects of sun exposure. There are many things you can and should do to protect yourself from sun exposure.

We often only consider applying sunscreen when we expect to be outside for many hours. However, we don't consider it when we spend shorter periods of time out of doors. Your skin is exposed to the sun's rays every time you are outside, even if you're simply walking to work in the morning or taking a breather outdoors during the afternoon.

The standard protection for sun exposure is to wear an SPF of at least 15 to every area that is exposed to the sun. You should also keep your exposure between the hours of ten AM and three PM to a minimum. This is when the sun is at its strongest. It isn't just during the summer hours that you should watch your sun exposure. You can still become overexposed to sunlight in the fall and winter seasons. Make sure you are wearing a sunscreen all year round.

If you sweat or go swimming, you should reapply your suntan lotion every so often. To be safe, apply more lotion every two hours, or more often for children. Infants less than six months old should not be exposed to the sun any more than necessary, since their skin cannot handle sunscreen.

Babies and children have extremely delicate skin, and thus are at high risk for sun exposure and even skin cancer. Limit their sun exposure by covering skin and outfitting them with hats.

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Saturday, June 27, 2009

Learn All About Skin Cancer Detection

By Kathy Forcey

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer that is diagnosed every year. It is also one cancer that is easily detectable if you pay attention to your skin and perform a self examination regularly. In addition to skin cancer detection you should do everything you can to prevent skin cancer from ever starting.

You should perform a self check on your skin at least once a month. In addition your doctor should be examining your skin during your routine examination and checking out anything that you have seen and have a question on. Performing your own skin cancer detection check is a relatively quick and painless procedure that you can do easily.

When you do your first self exam you will want to take your time to really get a good look at your skin and all the different characteristics. Make sure you are in a well lit area with a full length mirror. There will likely be areas that are difficult to see with just one mirror, so have a hand mirror ready to use also. Getting a good look at what your skin looks like now, cancer free, will be the best way to compare future checks when looking for changes in your skin. When examining your skin, take note of anything you hadn't noticed before.

Start with the face, and then work down your body checking all areas very carefully. Someone close to you, your spouse or a good friend can help you with the hard to see areas such as your lower back. If you don't have help, use a small mirror to see those areas.

You should examine areas more closely if they are regularly exposed to the sun. You want to know if moles and other discolored areas change in color or size. Detailed descriptions of many kinds of skin cancers are readily available.

Early detection is the key to successfully treating skin cancer. By making sure you are familiar with the regular appearance of your skin, you can take note of the appearance of any moles or other features of your skin. If you notice anything suspicious, show it to your doctor immediately. It might be harmless, but the only way to be certain is to have your doctor check it.

If you are fair skinned you will have to be extra careful with your skin. Make sure that you keep it covered when you are in the sun and always wear sunscreen on your exposed areas. Make use of hats and keep the sun off of your face. Good prevention and skin cancer detection are your best weapons.

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