Health & Fitness
Health & Fitness (77)
Children categories
Saturday, 13 March 2010 16:38
How to Get Pregnancy Health Insurance If You’re Already Pregnant
Written by Investor Jim
It might take a while to make people realize the value and importance of getting any kind of pregnancy health insurance, especially before actually getting pregnant. But unfortunately, there are not a lot of potential parents who don’t really plan ahead about something as basic as health insurance. The worst thing about it is that there are a lot of parents and expecting parents out there who don’t have any idea of what pregnancy health insurance is all about. It is sad but it happens every day. According to the American Health Association, 13% women who are pregnant in the US do not have any kind of health insurance. What’s ironic about this is that pregnancy is actually the most difficult and sensitive period of a woman’s life. Not to mention, pregnancy can also be the most expensive phase in a woman’s life because given that the situation can be sensitive, it needs to be given special care and medical support. If 13 percent of pregnant women in the United States do not have any kind of pregnancy life insurance, then how much more pregnant women do you think don’t have the same privileges in other part of the world? For this very reason, millions of mothers and babies around the world suffer from different kinds of birth and pregnancy complications. Since prenatal visits can cost a lot of money, not everyone are capable of giving much needed medical attention to during their pregnancy so both the baby and the mother suffer.
But if you are already pregnant, is there a way to save your family from potential complications and problems? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Here is a guide to follow if you want to get life insurance for you and your baby. First, do your research about insurance options that will still approve your application even if you are already pregnant. The most popular program that gives an insurance policy even when you are already pregnant is Medicaid. Thank God for this federally-funded program, you can still save your family from the risks of having any kind of pregnancy complications.
But you have to understand that having an insurance policy with Medicaid is not as easy as applying for any other kind of insurance programs, or you can get indexed universal life insurance. They have strict qualifications for potential insurance holders. One of those is that you have to have low income. If you cannot meet this primary requirement, you cannot avail of their policy. But think about this; if you cannot avail of any kind of pregnancy insurance because you are already pregnant, why not just make the necessary adjustments to meet the low-income requirements of Medicaid. You just have to weigh the odds and see which option works better for you. You can drop some minor sources of income that are not so stable during your pregnancy. By sticking with the most stable and dependable source of income, you might be able to meet the low-income standards of their program. In the long run, it might work well for you to make both ends meet during your pregnancy than keeping your other sources of income and pay a lot more for prenatal visits and other medical support that your pregnancy needs.
But if you are already pregnant, is there a way to save your family from potential complications and problems? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Here is a guide to follow if you want to get life insurance for you and your baby. First, do your research about insurance options that will still approve your application even if you are already pregnant. The most popular program that gives an insurance policy even when you are already pregnant is Medicaid. Thank God for this federally-funded program, you can still save your family from the risks of having any kind of pregnancy complications.
But you have to understand that having an insurance policy with Medicaid is not as easy as applying for any other kind of insurance programs, or you can get indexed universal life insurance. They have strict qualifications for potential insurance holders. One of those is that you have to have low income. If you cannot meet this primary requirement, you cannot avail of their policy. But think about this; if you cannot avail of any kind of pregnancy insurance because you are already pregnant, why not just make the necessary adjustments to meet the low-income requirements of Medicaid. You just have to weigh the odds and see which option works better for you. You can drop some minor sources of income that are not so stable during your pregnancy. By sticking with the most stable and dependable source of income, you might be able to meet the low-income standards of their program. In the long run, it might work well for you to make both ends meet during your pregnancy than keeping your other sources of income and pay a lot more for prenatal visits and other medical support that your pregnancy needs.
Published in
Pregnancy
Tagged under
Plastic Surgery is a procedure done not just to reconstruct abnormalities caused by accidents, medical and birth defects but also to aesthetically improve oneself in terms of physical looks. Not only does plastic surgery change how a person looks like but it can also cause positive effects in the mental state as well. A radical change on how a person looks like after cosmetic surgery can give a much needed boost in confidence as well as chase away feelings of self-pity and depression. Unfortunately, not all surgeries have happy endings. Malpractices in the field of Plastic Surgery can not only bring about emotional stress but also physical abnormalities that you might have to carry for the rest of your life. For this very reason, it is important for those who want to go for this procedure to understand the risks of going under the knife.
Because of reality TV and other fads, people’s sub-consciousness were slowly molded into accepting plastic surgery as a norm. There are many benefits of plastic surgery. It has become an instant solution for many that is why there was a rapid increase in cases of malpractices. Instead of enhancing the physical look of a person, it can cause new abnormalities and worsen existing ones. Depending on the depth and type of plastic surgery, one can be afflicted with serious side effects. Example, instead of increasing the bust size, it may bring about infections as well as the damage the nerves. A botch up nose job can cause breathing problems and a bad liposuction can bring about disfigurement and even death. All of the procedures done in the name of aesthetics pose potential danger especially if the one who will perform the surgery lacks the knowledge, experience and most especially the lack of equipments.
Because of the possible side effects, it doesn’t mean that you will altogether remove plastic surgery as an option especially in cases like reconstructive surgery and if it is your last option. The most important thing you have to do is to make sure that you talk to your doctor to clear up what ever concerns you may have. Plastic surgery is not just a solution but a commitment as well. Demand honesty from your doctor and ask that you be told all the potential risks involved as well as the side effects that may come forth post-surgery. You should be able to have a good grasp of what changes you should expect from your body. Ask if there will be some pain after the procedure and what can you do about it. The most important question you should also ask your doctor is if you how the surgery should be done. Make sure that you will be happy with outcome so there would be no need for re-surgery again.
Another tip to make sure that you avoid the ills of medical malpractice is by checking out the credentials of the doctor who would perform the surgery on you. Not only should you check the diplomas and licenses to make sure that the doctor is capable of doing the procedure properly. If the operation will be done in a clinic instead of a hospital, beforehand try to look around and observe the cleanliness of the place. A speck of dust here and there is not a great sign because they can cause infections. It would also be helpful if the doctor is someone who was referred to you by someone who had surgery. Though this doesn’t mean that you won’t be a victim of medical malpractice, it is better to stick to those who have shown reliability in the past.
Because of reality TV and other fads, people’s sub-consciousness were slowly molded into accepting plastic surgery as a norm. There are many benefits of plastic surgery. It has become an instant solution for many that is why there was a rapid increase in cases of malpractices. Instead of enhancing the physical look of a person, it can cause new abnormalities and worsen existing ones. Depending on the depth and type of plastic surgery, one can be afflicted with serious side effects. Example, instead of increasing the bust size, it may bring about infections as well as the damage the nerves. A botch up nose job can cause breathing problems and a bad liposuction can bring about disfigurement and even death. All of the procedures done in the name of aesthetics pose potential danger especially if the one who will perform the surgery lacks the knowledge, experience and most especially the lack of equipments.
Because of the possible side effects, it doesn’t mean that you will altogether remove plastic surgery as an option especially in cases like reconstructive surgery and if it is your last option. The most important thing you have to do is to make sure that you talk to your doctor to clear up what ever concerns you may have. Plastic surgery is not just a solution but a commitment as well. Demand honesty from your doctor and ask that you be told all the potential risks involved as well as the side effects that may come forth post-surgery. You should be able to have a good grasp of what changes you should expect from your body. Ask if there will be some pain after the procedure and what can you do about it. The most important question you should also ask your doctor is if you how the surgery should be done. Make sure that you will be happy with outcome so there would be no need for re-surgery again.
Another tip to make sure that you avoid the ills of medical malpractice is by checking out the credentials of the doctor who would perform the surgery on you. Not only should you check the diplomas and licenses to make sure that the doctor is capable of doing the procedure properly. If the operation will be done in a clinic instead of a hospital, beforehand try to look around and observe the cleanliness of the place. A speck of dust here and there is not a great sign because they can cause infections. It would also be helpful if the doctor is someone who was referred to you by someone who had surgery. Though this doesn’t mean that you won’t be a victim of medical malpractice, it is better to stick to those who have shown reliability in the past.
Published in
Plastic Surgery
Tagged under
For most people acne will clear up when they enter their twenties but if it has left you with scars these will persist, perhaps for life. To deal with these scars and to minimise their appearance a number of options are available. Which is the best acne scar treatment for you and your budget? Hopefully, the information below will help you to choose a suitable treatment that's within your price range.
Microdermabrasion
What type of scars is it suitable for? Microdermabrasion is best used on raised, small acne scars. It's not suitable for indented scars or those that are deep.
How does microdermabrasion work? This process exfoliates the skin and removes any cells that are damaged or dead on the skin's surface. Tiny crystals of aluminium oxide, sodium chloride, magnesium oxide or zinc oxide are sprayed onto the skin under pressure to remove the dead cells from the scarred area. It is also effective at cleaning the pores. The treatment rarely has side effects and needs no recovery time.
How much does it cost? For each treatment expect to pay between $80 and $200. A complete course will be around $1000.
Laser Skin Rejuvenation
What type of scars is it suitable for? Laser skin rejuvenation is suitable for deep or indented scars.
How does laser skin rejuvenation work? This treatment is different from microdermabrasion as it does not work on the top layer of the skin but deeper, in the collagen layer. Collagen is the structural component of the skin and laser treatment stimulates it's growth in the affected area. Growth of new collagen will then fill in the pits and indentations caused by the acne and cause the scar to disappear over time. A course of five or six treatments over a month or more is usually required to be effective. The treatment does not usually cause any side effects except a temporary redness which lasts only a few hours.
How much does laser skin rejuvenation cost? For each treatment expect to pay $500. A complete course will be around $2000.
Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing
What type of scars is it suitable for? Fractional laser skin resurfacing is suitable for all types of acne scars.
How does fractional laser skin resurfacing work? There are two forms of this treatment used, ablative and non-ablative. Non-ablative is used on milder acne scars and has a shorter recovery period. A laser is used in bith cases to cause damage to areas around the scar. This results in stimulation of the collagen to grow and replace scar tissue with new growth. Although fractional laser skin resurfacing is the most expensive treatment it is generally acknowledged as being the best.
How much does fractional laser skin resurfacing cost? For each treatment expect to pay between $800 to $2500. A complete course will be anywhere between $5000 and $10,000.
Dermal Filling
What type of scars is dermal filling suitable for? Dermal filling is suitable for indented acne scars.
How does dermal filling work? This is a temporary method that used collagen injections to fill in the pits and indentations left by the acne. Eventually the collagen becomes absorbed by the body and the scars resume their original appearance. This usually takes a few months to a year. Originally animal collagen was used but newer synthetic materials such as Perlane® or Restylane® are now available which last for longer and do not carry a risk of allergic reaction.
How much does dermal filling cost? Costs vary considerably from $300 upwards depending on the treatment recommended.
Chemical Peels
What type of scars is a chemical peel suitable for? Chemical peels are suitable for mild scarring.
How does a chemical peel work? Chemical peels, although less popular nowadays for acne scar treatment, can be effective for mild scarring. They work by removing the top layer of the skin to leave healthy, unscarred skin visible. Two of the most popular are glycolic acid and salicylic acid chemical peels. Treatment takes about fifteen to twenty minutes and you may feel some mild stinging or irritation. You may also experience some redness, dryness or irritation after the treatment but this should be temporary and only last a few days. For effective treatment of acne scars you will need at least three treatments.
How much does a chemical peel cost? For each treatment expect to pay between $500 and $900. A complete course will be around $1500.
Conclusion
The best acne scar treatment for you should be decided in consultation with a dermatologist who will assess your skin and the extent of your scarring. You will also need to take into account your budget as some of the treatments are very expensive.
Microdermabrasion
What type of scars is it suitable for? Microdermabrasion is best used on raised, small acne scars. It's not suitable for indented scars or those that are deep.
How does microdermabrasion work? This process exfoliates the skin and removes any cells that are damaged or dead on the skin's surface. Tiny crystals of aluminium oxide, sodium chloride, magnesium oxide or zinc oxide are sprayed onto the skin under pressure to remove the dead cells from the scarred area. It is also effective at cleaning the pores. The treatment rarely has side effects and needs no recovery time.
How much does it cost? For each treatment expect to pay between $80 and $200. A complete course will be around $1000.
Laser Skin Rejuvenation
What type of scars is it suitable for? Laser skin rejuvenation is suitable for deep or indented scars.
How does laser skin rejuvenation work? This treatment is different from microdermabrasion as it does not work on the top layer of the skin but deeper, in the collagen layer. Collagen is the structural component of the skin and laser treatment stimulates it's growth in the affected area. Growth of new collagen will then fill in the pits and indentations caused by the acne and cause the scar to disappear over time. A course of five or six treatments over a month or more is usually required to be effective. The treatment does not usually cause any side effects except a temporary redness which lasts only a few hours.
How much does laser skin rejuvenation cost? For each treatment expect to pay $500. A complete course will be around $2000.
Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing
What type of scars is it suitable for? Fractional laser skin resurfacing is suitable for all types of acne scars.
How does fractional laser skin resurfacing work? There are two forms of this treatment used, ablative and non-ablative. Non-ablative is used on milder acne scars and has a shorter recovery period. A laser is used in bith cases to cause damage to areas around the scar. This results in stimulation of the collagen to grow and replace scar tissue with new growth. Although fractional laser skin resurfacing is the most expensive treatment it is generally acknowledged as being the best.
How much does fractional laser skin resurfacing cost? For each treatment expect to pay between $800 to $2500. A complete course will be anywhere between $5000 and $10,000.
Dermal Filling
What type of scars is dermal filling suitable for? Dermal filling is suitable for indented acne scars.
How does dermal filling work? This is a temporary method that used collagen injections to fill in the pits and indentations left by the acne. Eventually the collagen becomes absorbed by the body and the scars resume their original appearance. This usually takes a few months to a year. Originally animal collagen was used but newer synthetic materials such as Perlane® or Restylane® are now available which last for longer and do not carry a risk of allergic reaction.
How much does dermal filling cost? Costs vary considerably from $300 upwards depending on the treatment recommended.
Chemical Peels
What type of scars is a chemical peel suitable for? Chemical peels are suitable for mild scarring.
How does a chemical peel work? Chemical peels, although less popular nowadays for acne scar treatment, can be effective for mild scarring. They work by removing the top layer of the skin to leave healthy, unscarred skin visible. Two of the most popular are glycolic acid and salicylic acid chemical peels. Treatment takes about fifteen to twenty minutes and you may feel some mild stinging or irritation. You may also experience some redness, dryness or irritation after the treatment but this should be temporary and only last a few days. For effective treatment of acne scars you will need at least three treatments.
How much does a chemical peel cost? For each treatment expect to pay between $500 and $900. A complete course will be around $1500.
Conclusion
The best acne scar treatment for you should be decided in consultation with a dermatologist who will assess your skin and the extent of your scarring. You will also need to take into account your budget as some of the treatments are very expensive.
Published in
Skin Care
Wednesday, 10 March 2010 22:17
How to Get Health Insurance with Maternity Coverage
Written by Investor Jim
No insurance company agent will ever approve your application for health insurance with maternity coverage, if he or she is aware that you are already pregnant. Of course, if the agent is a close friend or a relative, then maybe you can be an exception. But if ever you got approved for that application, would you risk your friend or relative’s employment? Kidding aside, the point is that it is very difficult, if not impossible, to get a health insurance with maternity coverage if you are proven to be already carrying a baby inside you. So if you just got married and you are planning to have a family, listen up and the next five to ten minutes of reading this article might actually save you not just a lot of money but also lives your loved ones.
First, why is it that most insurance companies would not approve an applicant who is already pregnant? It’s actually very simple. It’s similar to the reason why insurance companies are rejecting applicants who already have pre-existing medical conditions. If you already have cancer, you will seek treatment and medical assistance with or without any kind of insurance. It means that there is a 100 percent chance that they will spend a lot of money on all kinds of treatment and medical support your contract entails. If they would allow already pregnant women to have health insurance with maternity coverage, those insurance companies will be bankrupt sooner that your due date. At the end of the day, those insurance companies are still businesses no matter how good their mission and vision is.
Here is a step by step guide to get insurance with maternity coverage. If you are not yet pregnant, you won’t have any problems applying for any kind of health insurance that has maternity coverage. The first step is to do your research about the insurance companies in your state and compare their plans. Choose the best plan that suits your needs, lifestyle and financial capability. Second, make sure that you are already fulfilled with your job before deciding to get pregnant. If you feel like transferring to a new job while in the middle of the insurance plan and the pregnancy, it might take a while for you to use the benefits of your health insurance. In short, to maximize the benefits of the insurance, stick to your job until you have fully enjoyed the perks of the insurance.
It is always important to know the ins and outs of your life insurance to make the most out of it. Be sure that you fully understand all the terms and conditions and make sure that you have read all the underlying clauses that might affect you and your child’s life in the future. They say that a child is always a blessing. If you don’t get the life insurance that has maternity coverage, this blessing might not be given the utmost care that it needs. Having to think of responsibilities as parents is hard enough. Don’t make it even more difficult by not getting insured and later on suffer the consequences of risking your child’s life and future.
First, why is it that most insurance companies would not approve an applicant who is already pregnant? It’s actually very simple. It’s similar to the reason why insurance companies are rejecting applicants who already have pre-existing medical conditions. If you already have cancer, you will seek treatment and medical assistance with or without any kind of insurance. It means that there is a 100 percent chance that they will spend a lot of money on all kinds of treatment and medical support your contract entails. If they would allow already pregnant women to have health insurance with maternity coverage, those insurance companies will be bankrupt sooner that your due date. At the end of the day, those insurance companies are still businesses no matter how good their mission and vision is.
Here is a step by step guide to get insurance with maternity coverage. If you are not yet pregnant, you won’t have any problems applying for any kind of health insurance that has maternity coverage. The first step is to do your research about the insurance companies in your state and compare their plans. Choose the best plan that suits your needs, lifestyle and financial capability. Second, make sure that you are already fulfilled with your job before deciding to get pregnant. If you feel like transferring to a new job while in the middle of the insurance plan and the pregnancy, it might take a while for you to use the benefits of your health insurance. In short, to maximize the benefits of the insurance, stick to your job until you have fully enjoyed the perks of the insurance.
It is always important to know the ins and outs of your life insurance to make the most out of it. Be sure that you fully understand all the terms and conditions and make sure that you have read all the underlying clauses that might affect you and your child’s life in the future. They say that a child is always a blessing. If you don’t get the life insurance that has maternity coverage, this blessing might not be given the utmost care that it needs. Having to think of responsibilities as parents is hard enough. Don’t make it even more difficult by not getting insured and later on suffer the consequences of risking your child’s life and future.
Published in
Pregnancy
Tagged under
For men there are many signs of aging and perhaps the most frustrating sign is a receding hair line. On average two thirds of men will suffer from some sort of hair loss and practically all of them will experience a degree of frontal or temple hair loss. As a result there umpteen different products on the market intended to reduce the rate of hair loss and/or to reverse the hair loss altogether. The success of these products is dubious to say the least but men continue to spend hundreds of dollars every year in an attempt to regain their beloved hair.
The reason genetic hair loss can happen is due to a hormone that men produce called dihydrotesterone (DHT) which goes on to attack the hair follicles causing them to shrink over a period of months and even years. Eventually they will shrink so much that they simply fall out and won’t ever be replaced. Men can actually lose about half of the frontal hair before realizing that this genetic hair loss is happening to them.
If you have spent any time looking at anti-hair loss products you will see that some of them claim that hair loss is caused by poor circulation, clogged pores and even a lack of oxygen. However these claims are unfounded so be very careful about this fact before you part with your hard earned cash. These products aren’t always very cheap so you don’t want to be ripped off. 95% of hair loss is caused by DHT with the other 5% being caused by other factors such as cancer treatments.
Be aware that the FDA has approved only four different hair loss treatments which are hair transplants, flap surgery, Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia).
Hair Transplant - At first hair transplants can appear very expensive however over the long run they work out pretty cost-effective. You are also more likely to achieve the appearance you are after. 99% of the hairs that are transplanted are successful and are actually taken from the area of your scalp that has resisted the DHT hair loss.
Flap Surgery - Despite the fact that flap surgery has improved in recent years it is still considered to be the least effective of all the hair loss treatments on the market. Basically a part of your scalp is rotated however this results in a very unnatural hair line so don’t choose this treatment unless you really know what you want from it.
Finasteride (Propecia) and Minoxidil (Rogaine) - If you decide to undergo either of these treatments you need to understand that it doesn’t work for receding temple hair however it does work for frontal and mid-scalp anterior regions. When going on the Finasteride or Minoxidil program you will need to take it for life in order to enjoy the benefits.
Any kind of hair loss treatment is going to require a lot of research before you commit yourself to it. Not only is there a lot of money involved, there is also a lot of time in going through the treatment. Please think about it carefully and consider what treatment is most appropriate for your type of receding hair line. It might be that a hair transplant is the best course of action so talk to a few surgeons for their advice.
The reason genetic hair loss can happen is due to a hormone that men produce called dihydrotesterone (DHT) which goes on to attack the hair follicles causing them to shrink over a period of months and even years. Eventually they will shrink so much that they simply fall out and won’t ever be replaced. Men can actually lose about half of the frontal hair before realizing that this genetic hair loss is happening to them.
If you have spent any time looking at anti-hair loss products you will see that some of them claim that hair loss is caused by poor circulation, clogged pores and even a lack of oxygen. However these claims are unfounded so be very careful about this fact before you part with your hard earned cash. These products aren’t always very cheap so you don’t want to be ripped off. 95% of hair loss is caused by DHT with the other 5% being caused by other factors such as cancer treatments.
Be aware that the FDA has approved only four different hair loss treatments which are hair transplants, flap surgery, Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia).
Hair Transplant - At first hair transplants can appear very expensive however over the long run they work out pretty cost-effective. You are also more likely to achieve the appearance you are after. 99% of the hairs that are transplanted are successful and are actually taken from the area of your scalp that has resisted the DHT hair loss.
Flap Surgery - Despite the fact that flap surgery has improved in recent years it is still considered to be the least effective of all the hair loss treatments on the market. Basically a part of your scalp is rotated however this results in a very unnatural hair line so don’t choose this treatment unless you really know what you want from it.
Finasteride (Propecia) and Minoxidil (Rogaine) - If you decide to undergo either of these treatments you need to understand that it doesn’t work for receding temple hair however it does work for frontal and mid-scalp anterior regions. When going on the Finasteride or Minoxidil program you will need to take it for life in order to enjoy the benefits.
Any kind of hair loss treatment is going to require a lot of research before you commit yourself to it. Not only is there a lot of money involved, there is also a lot of time in going through the treatment. Please think about it carefully and consider what treatment is most appropriate for your type of receding hair line. It might be that a hair transplant is the best course of action so talk to a few surgeons for their advice.
Published in
Hair Loss
Tagged under
Stretch marks can appear on many parts of the body including the stomach, thighs, breasts, arms, hips and buttocks. The reason for the stretch marks appearing can be due to weight gain, weight loss and also pregnancy. If the middle layer of the skin (the dermis) has been torn it will result in what appears to be stretch marks.
Whenever stretch marks appear you ought to have them treated as quickly as possible because when you catch them early on you will find they disappear much easier. If your stretch marks are red, brown, pink or purple then you will find it easier to treat than if you allow them to become white or silver.
When it comes to treating red stretch marks you will see that the products on the market vary greatly in terms of the type and the price. More and more products seem to be entering the market place so knowing which ones to try is very tricky. If you want an at-home treatment option then you can look for creams that contain any of the following ingredients:-
Tretinoin - reduces the size of the stretch marks
Centella asiatica extract, alpha tocopherol (vitamin E) and collagen-elastin hydrolysates - used to prevent the stretch marks from appearing in the first place
Cocoa butter - moisturizes the skin and increases the elasticity
retinoids retinol and retinaldehyde from Vitamin A can increase cell regeneration and can lessen the marks
If you think that you may get stretch marks in the near future because of pregnancy or weight loss it’s a very good idea to try and prevent the stretch marks from appearing in the first place by using products that moisturize the skin and repairs the collagen. Lanolin, cocoa butter and wheat germ oil are all good for this purpose.
Although there are so many products on the market they haven’t necessarily been proven to work. If you want a proven treatment then you need to look at laser therapy. A beam of light is utilized to remove layers of skin in the affected area is not as scary as it might appear. The healing time is very quick however there will be some tenderness to begin with. A single treatment can cost in the region of $200 and how many treatments you require will depend on the stretch marks you have. A dermatologist can have a look at your skin and give you an idea of how many treatments you are likely to require.
If your red stretch marks are really a big problem to you, it’s a good idea to fully research every treatment out there. Just because a treatment is expensive doesn’t mean it will automatically be more effective. You might want to start out with cocoa butter with Vitamin E and see how you get on. Of course, taking to a dermatologist means you will receive advice tailored to you.
Whenever stretch marks appear you ought to have them treated as quickly as possible because when you catch them early on you will find they disappear much easier. If your stretch marks are red, brown, pink or purple then you will find it easier to treat than if you allow them to become white or silver.
When it comes to treating red stretch marks you will see that the products on the market vary greatly in terms of the type and the price. More and more products seem to be entering the market place so knowing which ones to try is very tricky. If you want an at-home treatment option then you can look for creams that contain any of the following ingredients:-
Tretinoin - reduces the size of the stretch marks
Centella asiatica extract, alpha tocopherol (vitamin E) and collagen-elastin hydrolysates - used to prevent the stretch marks from appearing in the first place
Cocoa butter - moisturizes the skin and increases the elasticity
retinoids retinol and retinaldehyde from Vitamin A can increase cell regeneration and can lessen the marks
If you think that you may get stretch marks in the near future because of pregnancy or weight loss it’s a very good idea to try and prevent the stretch marks from appearing in the first place by using products that moisturize the skin and repairs the collagen. Lanolin, cocoa butter and wheat germ oil are all good for this purpose.
Although there are so many products on the market they haven’t necessarily been proven to work. If you want a proven treatment then you need to look at laser therapy. A beam of light is utilized to remove layers of skin in the affected area is not as scary as it might appear. The healing time is very quick however there will be some tenderness to begin with. A single treatment can cost in the region of $200 and how many treatments you require will depend on the stretch marks you have. A dermatologist can have a look at your skin and give you an idea of how many treatments you are likely to require.
If your red stretch marks are really a big problem to you, it’s a good idea to fully research every treatment out there. Just because a treatment is expensive doesn’t mean it will automatically be more effective. You might want to start out with cocoa butter with Vitamin E and see how you get on. Of course, taking to a dermatologist means you will receive advice tailored to you.
Published in
Skin Care
Tagged under
A wide variety of things can cause scars including sports injuries, surgery, chickenpox and acne but most will fade substantially over time. Some scars may disappear completely but large scars that are indented or raised may persist and cause disfigurement. A variety of therapies are available for the treatment of these types of scars including dermabrasion and chemical peels but for many scars the best option is laser scar removal. Laser treatment for scars is around 80% effective in reducing the scars appearance. This type of treatment however is not usually recommended for sufferers of some skin diseases such as psoriasis, dermatitis or cystic acne. In addition if you are thinking of laser scar removal you should not take isotretinoin for the six months before any treatment.
What are the different types of scars?
Scars vary in their appearance and have been classified accordingly. Hypertrophic scars are firm, raised and often pink and usually disappear over time. Keloid scars develop gradually and often cover more than the original area that was damaged. They are usually firm and raised and may be red or purple. Atrophic scars are the small pits that are caused by a skin disease such as acne or chickenpox.
What type of lasers are used for laser scar removal?
There are different lasers used for scar removal and the most appropriate one for your skin and scar type will be used by your practitioner. For the removal of acne scars YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet) and CO2 lasers are usually used. They work by removing the top layer of the skin, known as ablation. Both will need some healing time after treatment although CO2 lasers recovery is usually shorter than for the YAG lasers. A modification of this technique is to use a fractionated YAG or CO2 laser which works in a slightly different way by causing damage in small areas underneath the scar and is a controlled method of wound healing. With this type of laser the recovery time is minimal.
For keloid scars a pulsed dye laser may be used. The treatment is also often used with other treatments such as injections of five percent fluorouracil or steroid injections which can help to make the scars flatter. Pulsed dye laser treatment does not require any recovery time.
Who can benefit from laser scar removal?
In general laser scar treatment is best for those with fair skin although recent improvements in fractionated IR (infra red) lasers have allowed their use on acne for those with dark skin. However, at the present time, hypertrophic and keloid scars can still only be treated on fair skin. If you suffer from any form of dermatitis, cystic acne or psoriasis a dermatologist will be able to tell you if there is a laser treatment that is suitable for you.
How does laser treatment work on scars?
There are two types of techniques used for laser scar treatment, ablative or non-ablative. Ablative laser treatment literally peels of the top skin layer and new skin then grows over the scarred area. For non-ablative laser treatment the cells in a deeper layer of the skin are damaged which causes new growth of collagen, the structural component of the skin. Pits and indents are then filled in as the collagen grows.
What happens during laser scar treatment?
Laser treatment can be undertaken as an out-patient and requires a local anesthetic. It Will take between ten minutes and an hour. The area will be washed with a gentle soap solution and antibiotic cream applied. There are also medications that can help to fade the scar which may also be prescribed. For ablative laser treatment a pain medication may be prescribed.
How does the skin heal after treatment?
A few days after treatment the skin will start to regenerate. Healing times will vary depending on a number of factors including the type of laser used and the condition of your skin prior to treatment. Side effects can include a change in pigmentation which can be increased if you expose your skin to the sun.
Conclusion
Laser scar treatment is very successful in minimising the look of a variety of scar types including those caused by acne. It is expensive however, the costs varying depending on the the size of the scarred area and how severe the scarring is. Newer lasers, that do less damage to the skin and involve much less healing afterwards have been introduced recently. Your dermatologist will be able to tell you if your scars are suitable for this type of treatment and which type of laser treatment is most suitable.
What are the different types of scars?
Scars vary in their appearance and have been classified accordingly. Hypertrophic scars are firm, raised and often pink and usually disappear over time. Keloid scars develop gradually and often cover more than the original area that was damaged. They are usually firm and raised and may be red or purple. Atrophic scars are the small pits that are caused by a skin disease such as acne or chickenpox.
What type of lasers are used for laser scar removal?
There are different lasers used for scar removal and the most appropriate one for your skin and scar type will be used by your practitioner. For the removal of acne scars YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet) and CO2 lasers are usually used. They work by removing the top layer of the skin, known as ablation. Both will need some healing time after treatment although CO2 lasers recovery is usually shorter than for the YAG lasers. A modification of this technique is to use a fractionated YAG or CO2 laser which works in a slightly different way by causing damage in small areas underneath the scar and is a controlled method of wound healing. With this type of laser the recovery time is minimal.
For keloid scars a pulsed dye laser may be used. The treatment is also often used with other treatments such as injections of five percent fluorouracil or steroid injections which can help to make the scars flatter. Pulsed dye laser treatment does not require any recovery time.
Who can benefit from laser scar removal?
In general laser scar treatment is best for those with fair skin although recent improvements in fractionated IR (infra red) lasers have allowed their use on acne for those with dark skin. However, at the present time, hypertrophic and keloid scars can still only be treated on fair skin. If you suffer from any form of dermatitis, cystic acne or psoriasis a dermatologist will be able to tell you if there is a laser treatment that is suitable for you.
How does laser treatment work on scars?
There are two types of techniques used for laser scar treatment, ablative or non-ablative. Ablative laser treatment literally peels of the top skin layer and new skin then grows over the scarred area. For non-ablative laser treatment the cells in a deeper layer of the skin are damaged which causes new growth of collagen, the structural component of the skin. Pits and indents are then filled in as the collagen grows.
What happens during laser scar treatment?
Laser treatment can be undertaken as an out-patient and requires a local anesthetic. It Will take between ten minutes and an hour. The area will be washed with a gentle soap solution and antibiotic cream applied. There are also medications that can help to fade the scar which may also be prescribed. For ablative laser treatment a pain medication may be prescribed.
How does the skin heal after treatment?
A few days after treatment the skin will start to regenerate. Healing times will vary depending on a number of factors including the type of laser used and the condition of your skin prior to treatment. Side effects can include a change in pigmentation which can be increased if you expose your skin to the sun.
Conclusion
Laser scar treatment is very successful in minimising the look of a variety of scar types including those caused by acne. It is expensive however, the costs varying depending on the the size of the scarred area and how severe the scarring is. Newer lasers, that do less damage to the skin and involve much less healing afterwards have been introduced recently. Your dermatologist will be able to tell you if your scars are suitable for this type of treatment and which type of laser treatment is most suitable.
Published in
Skin Care
Salicylic acid chemical peels are effective for the treatment skin that is affected by acne as it is an excellent exfoliating agent that will help to clear up whiteheads and blackheads and improve the appearance of the skin. They are also effective in the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles and for improving the overall tone of the skin. Salicylic acid chemical peels are among the most well tolerated of the chemical peels and usually have the least side effects.
What is salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is a member of the class of acids called beta hydoxy acids which also included beta hydroxybutanoic acid, tropic acid and trethocanic acid. These acids are made in the laboratory in contrast to the alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid which are extracted from sugar cane or fruits. Salicylic acid is similar to acetylsalicylic acid which you will be familiar with as it is more commonly known as aspirin and is synthesised from extracts from willow tree bark.
What is salicylic acid used for?
Salicylic acid is an excellent exfoliating agent and is used in both creams and lotions for the treatment of acne and in chemical peels. For creams and gels the concentration is usually less than 5% and for chemical peels much higher at 20-30%.
How does salicylic acid act as an exfoliant?
Salicylic acid is a small molecule that can penetrate the upper layers of the skin and reach below the dead cells. Here it can break the bonds that attach the dead cells to the skin thus allowing them to be removed easily. Once the dead cells are removed this leaves behind the newer, healthy cells which leaves the skin looking healthier and fresher. One advantage of the beta hydroxy acids over the alpha hydroxy acids is that they are soluble in fats so acne penetrate skin that is oily more effectively. This makes them more efficient at cleaning the pores of oils and sebum so they are more effective for those suffering from acne.
Are Salicylic chemical peels suitable for those with sensitive skin?
In general salicylic acid peels are well tolerated and can be used by most people with sensitive skin.
Can salicylic acid peels be used at home?
They should be used only by professional trained in their use as it is neccessary to take precautions against inhaling beta hydroxy acids.
How is a salicylic acid peel performed?
Before the peel solution is applied the skin is cleaned thoroughly then the solution applied and left on the skin for ten to fifteen minutes. Once removed mild lotion or cold compresses are applied to minimise any irritation. Over the next few days the top layer of dead skin cells will flake off. There may be some irritation during this time but it should be mild and temporary. After any kind of skin peel it is essential to use a good sunscreen as the skin will be more sensitive to the sun. Your therapist should give you detailed skin care instructions.
How much do salicylic acid skin peels cost?
These types of skin peel are not cheap! One treatment may be as much as $100 and usually two or three treatments are recommended for good results.
What is salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is a member of the class of acids called beta hydoxy acids which also included beta hydroxybutanoic acid, tropic acid and trethocanic acid. These acids are made in the laboratory in contrast to the alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid which are extracted from sugar cane or fruits. Salicylic acid is similar to acetylsalicylic acid which you will be familiar with as it is more commonly known as aspirin and is synthesised from extracts from willow tree bark.
What is salicylic acid used for?
Salicylic acid is an excellent exfoliating agent and is used in both creams and lotions for the treatment of acne and in chemical peels. For creams and gels the concentration is usually less than 5% and for chemical peels much higher at 20-30%.
How does salicylic acid act as an exfoliant?
Salicylic acid is a small molecule that can penetrate the upper layers of the skin and reach below the dead cells. Here it can break the bonds that attach the dead cells to the skin thus allowing them to be removed easily. Once the dead cells are removed this leaves behind the newer, healthy cells which leaves the skin looking healthier and fresher. One advantage of the beta hydroxy acids over the alpha hydroxy acids is that they are soluble in fats so acne penetrate skin that is oily more effectively. This makes them more efficient at cleaning the pores of oils and sebum so they are more effective for those suffering from acne.
Are Salicylic chemical peels suitable for those with sensitive skin?
In general salicylic acid peels are well tolerated and can be used by most people with sensitive skin.
Can salicylic acid peels be used at home?
They should be used only by professional trained in their use as it is neccessary to take precautions against inhaling beta hydroxy acids.
How is a salicylic acid peel performed?
Before the peel solution is applied the skin is cleaned thoroughly then the solution applied and left on the skin for ten to fifteen minutes. Once removed mild lotion or cold compresses are applied to minimise any irritation. Over the next few days the top layer of dead skin cells will flake off. There may be some irritation during this time but it should be mild and temporary. After any kind of skin peel it is essential to use a good sunscreen as the skin will be more sensitive to the sun. Your therapist should give you detailed skin care instructions.
How much do salicylic acid skin peels cost?
These types of skin peel are not cheap! One treatment may be as much as $100 and usually two or three treatments are recommended for good results.
Published in
Skin Care
Congested sinuses are a problem for many people, in fact sinus infections are suffered by over forty million Americans every year. Congested sinuses are often caused by chronic sinusitis which may be a result of allergies, such as mold, dust mites or pollen or irritation from environmental pollution. Sinus infections should be treated by your doctor as they cannot be treated effectively at home but if you have chronic sinus congestion then there are some things you can do yourself to help relieve this distressing condition.
Congested sinus remedies
If your sinus congestion is a result of an allergic reaction then you can try anti-histamines. be careful that you buy one that is non-drowsy as you will want to take it during the day, not just at night. Nasal sprays and decongestants are effective but should not be used long term. Decongestants can cause an increase in blood pressure and sleep problems. Oral steroids may be prescribed by your doctor if other treatments are not proving effective but nasal sprays that contain steroids have been known to cause nose bleeds and can have other, more serious side effects if used over a long period.
Home remedies for sinus congestion
What can you do at home to relieve the pressure caused by sinus congestion?
Steam treatments
Steam treatments using eucalyptus oil can help. Use a good quality eucalyptus essential oil and add a few drops to a bowl full of almost boiling water. With a cloth over your head to concentrate the steam, inhale deeply for about fifteen minutes. Use twice a day for badly congested sinuses.
Saline washes
An effective remedy is to use a saline wash to irrigate the sinuses. This works by washing out any allergens, such as mold spores, and also cleans the tiny cilia that beat continuously to move mucus through the sinuses and out the drainage holes. The easiest way to do saline washes is to use a neti pot.
Conclusion
As a long time sufferer of sinus congestion (all my life!) I have tried many different methods including oral steroids and decongestants. These methods all work, at least at first, but I found that all seem to stop working after a time as your body adjusts to them. The one thing I have found that works for me is sinus washes using a neti pot. I don't have to use it all the time but, at the first sign of congestion, I do a wash out twice a day for a few days and this allows me to control the congestion build up. Sinus congestion is a chronic condition that many, many people suffer from and it can cause not only headaches but tiredness and depression. An effective cure would be wonderful but as this does not seem to be on the horizon controlling the condition with congested sinus remedies is essential to improve your quality of life.
Congested sinus remedies
If your sinus congestion is a result of an allergic reaction then you can try anti-histamines. be careful that you buy one that is non-drowsy as you will want to take it during the day, not just at night. Nasal sprays and decongestants are effective but should not be used long term. Decongestants can cause an increase in blood pressure and sleep problems. Oral steroids may be prescribed by your doctor if other treatments are not proving effective but nasal sprays that contain steroids have been known to cause nose bleeds and can have other, more serious side effects if used over a long period.
Home remedies for sinus congestion
What can you do at home to relieve the pressure caused by sinus congestion?
Steam treatments
Steam treatments using eucalyptus oil can help. Use a good quality eucalyptus essential oil and add a few drops to a bowl full of almost boiling water. With a cloth over your head to concentrate the steam, inhale deeply for about fifteen minutes. Use twice a day for badly congested sinuses.
Saline washes
An effective remedy is to use a saline wash to irrigate the sinuses. This works by washing out any allergens, such as mold spores, and also cleans the tiny cilia that beat continuously to move mucus through the sinuses and out the drainage holes. The easiest way to do saline washes is to use a neti pot.
Conclusion
As a long time sufferer of sinus congestion (all my life!) I have tried many different methods including oral steroids and decongestants. These methods all work, at least at first, but I found that all seem to stop working after a time as your body adjusts to them. The one thing I have found that works for me is sinus washes using a neti pot. I don't have to use it all the time but, at the first sign of congestion, I do a wash out twice a day for a few days and this allows me to control the congestion build up. Sinus congestion is a chronic condition that many, many people suffer from and it can cause not only headaches but tiredness and depression. An effective cure would be wonderful but as this does not seem to be on the horizon controlling the condition with congested sinus remedies is essential to improve your quality of life.
Published in
Diseases and Conditions
If you suffer from rosacea you will have sensitive skin that must be treated very carefully so you should choose very mild, non irritating products. If you find that a skin care product irritates your skin, causes redness or a burning sensation then you should stop using it immediately. Some products that have been reported to cause these kinds of reaction in rosacea sufferers include eucalyptus oil, salicylic acid, peppermint and menthol. Unless you know that your skin does not react to them it would be wise to avoid any preparations that contain these ingredients.
You should also always use a good, high factor sunscreen as your skin may be more sensitive to the damaging effects of the sun and thus more likely to suffer damage. If you find that regular sunscreens irritate your skin then you could try a sun block containing zinc or titanium dioxide.
What is special about rosacea skin care products?
You should always use products that include anti inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Willowherb is often used in these products as it can reduce redness and has healing properties and has been successfully used for a long time. Another ingredient found to be effective is vitamin K which helps to heal the broken capillaries present in the skin of rosacea sufferers. Women should always use cosmetics that do not contain oil and which will not block the pores so avoid heavy make up which can clog the pores and provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Products specifically marketed for rosacea sufferers are mild and non irritating and contain ingredients to help treat the redness that is a result of this condition.
What ingredients are used in rosacea skin care products?
As we said earlier willowherb is an excellent ingredient to use for anyone suffering from the redness associated with rosacea. It has a long history of use for this condition and is well tolerated. It is mild and soothes the skin as well as providing anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory actions.
Bio-Maple is an extract derived from maple trees and is gentle on the skin. It works by keeping the pH of the skin in the correct range, thus helping to prevent bacteria from growing. It also helps to reduce redness and irritation and rehydrates the skin effectively.
How should I look after my skin if I suffer from rosacea?
It is important that you keep your skin clean as this will help to reduce flare ups but you should only use very mild cleansers to avoid irritation. You can buy cleansers specially made for rosacea sufferers that will not be irritating. Also, don't use a harsh wash cloth on your face, hands are enough and can be thoroughly cleaned before use, unlike a washcloth which could easily harbour germs! Always use a sun screen, even on overcast days as your skin will be more sensitive to the sun.
You should also always use a good, high factor sunscreen as your skin may be more sensitive to the damaging effects of the sun and thus more likely to suffer damage. If you find that regular sunscreens irritate your skin then you could try a sun block containing zinc or titanium dioxide.
What is special about rosacea skin care products?
You should always use products that include anti inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Willowherb is often used in these products as it can reduce redness and has healing properties and has been successfully used for a long time. Another ingredient found to be effective is vitamin K which helps to heal the broken capillaries present in the skin of rosacea sufferers. Women should always use cosmetics that do not contain oil and which will not block the pores so avoid heavy make up which can clog the pores and provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Products specifically marketed for rosacea sufferers are mild and non irritating and contain ingredients to help treat the redness that is a result of this condition.
What ingredients are used in rosacea skin care products?
As we said earlier willowherb is an excellent ingredient to use for anyone suffering from the redness associated with rosacea. It has a long history of use for this condition and is well tolerated. It is mild and soothes the skin as well as providing anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory actions.
Bio-Maple is an extract derived from maple trees and is gentle on the skin. It works by keeping the pH of the skin in the correct range, thus helping to prevent bacteria from growing. It also helps to reduce redness and irritation and rehydrates the skin effectively.
How should I look after my skin if I suffer from rosacea?
It is important that you keep your skin clean as this will help to reduce flare ups but you should only use very mild cleansers to avoid irritation. You can buy cleansers specially made for rosacea sufferers that will not be irritating. Also, don't use a harsh wash cloth on your face, hands are enough and can be thoroughly cleaned before use, unlike a washcloth which could easily harbour germs! Always use a sun screen, even on overcast days as your skin will be more sensitive to the sun.
Published in
Skin Care
Tagged under
