Tips for Doing a Skin Cancer Self-Examination

Tips for Doing a Skin Cancer Self-Examination

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in every five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, adding to the 5.4 million new cases that are diagnosed in the United States each year. Being diligent about skin cancer all year long, however, is the best way to beat the odds and keep risks of getting it lower.

“The American Academy of Dermatology reports that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the country,” says Katherine Goldman, celebrity esthetician/waxologist and owner of the Stript Wax Bar. “The good news is that there are plenty of things we can do to help minimize the risks of getting it.”

Skin cancer is when the cells in the skin have been damaged by tanning beds or the sun. Those damaged cells begin to quickly multiply out of control and form a tumor. Doing routine self-examinations is the best way to catch possible skin cancer sites early so they can be treated. To conduct a self-examination, keep these tips in mind:
– Twice a year, conduct a self-examination of the entire body.
– While examining the entire body, look for moles, birthmarks, beauty marks, or any brown marks.
– Once you have identified those particular marks, pay attention to whether or not they change in color, size, and texture. Look for any spots that are irregularly shaped or that are larger than the size of a pencil eraser.
– Also, look for skin growths that appear brown, black, translucent, pearly, or multicolored, as well as those that may be sore, hurt, itch, bleed, or scab.
– If you find spots that meet the criteria and are concerning, be sure to have them checked out by a doctor.

“Along with regular examinations, it’s important to protect the skin from the start,” says Goldman. “We need to take measures from the start to help keep our skin safe from the sun and to choose safer tanning options. Spray tanning is very popular, looks great, and helps people avoid the ultraviolet (UV) light risks.”

Skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet light, which is a known carcinogen. There are 419,000 cases of skin cancer each year that are linked to indoor tanning. Despite the information available about the dangers of tanning beds, many people are still putting themselves at risk. Spray tans are a healthier way to have a tan, because they allow people to avoid tanning by being in the sunlight or using tanning beds. People can still have the same bronzed and beautiful look, without all of the health risks of going to a tanning bed. Plus, it’s estimated that 90 percent of skin aging is caused by sun exposure, so people can protect their skin from cancer and from aging at the same time when they opt for a spray tan, rather than tanning in the sun or a tanning bed.

http://www.miraclesdayspa.com/

Tips for Doing a Skin Cancer Self-Examination

Tips for Doing a Skin Cancer Self-Examination

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in every five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, adding to the 5.4 million new cases that are diagnosed in the United States each year. Being diligent about skin cancer all year long, however, is the best way to beat the odds and keep risks of getting it lower.

“The American Academy of Dermatology reports that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the country,” says Katherine Goldman, celebrity esthetician/waxologist and owner of the Stript Wax Bar. “The good news is that there are plenty of things we can do to help minimize the risks of getting it.”

Skin cancer is when the cells in the skin have been damaged by tanning beds or the sun. Those damaged cells begin to quickly multiply out of control and form a tumor. Doing routine self-examinations is the best way to catch possible skin cancer sites early so they can be treated. To conduct a self-examination, keep these tips in mind:
– Twice a year, conduct a self-examination of the entire body.
– While examining the entire body, look for moles, birthmarks, beauty marks, or any brown marks.
– Once you have identified those particular marks, pay attention to whether or not they change in color, size, and texture. Look for any spots that are irregularly shaped or that are larger than the size of a pencil eraser.
– Also, look for skin growths that appear brown, black, translucent, pearly, or multicolored, as well as those that may be sore, hurt, itch, bleed, or scab.
– If you find spots that meet the criteria and are concerning, be sure to have them checked out by a doctor.

“Along with regular examinations, it’s important to protect the skin from the start,” says Goldman. “We need to take measures from the start to help keep our skin safe from the sun and to choose safer tanning options. Spray tanning is very popular, looks great, and helps people avoid the ultraviolet (UV) light risks.”

Skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet light, which is a known carcinogen. There are 419,000 cases of skin cancer each year that are linked to indoor tanning. Despite the information available about the dangers of tanning beds, many people are still putting themselves at risk. Spray tans are a healthier way to have a tan, because they allow people to avoid tanning by being in the sunlight or using tanning beds. People can still have the same bronzed and beautiful look, without all of the health risks of going to a tanning bed. Plus, it’s estimated that 90 percent of skin aging is caused by sun exposure, so people can protect their skin from cancer and from aging at the same time when they opt for a spray tan, rather than tanning in the sun or a tanning bed.

http://www.miraclesdayspa.com/

Good foods to put on your face

Everyone knows the benefits of incorporating fresh vegetables in their diet, but have you ever thought of bringing them into your skin care routine? Ask your esthetician if any of these natural treatments will complement your current recommended home-care routine.

Refreshing CucumbersImages of women basking with cucumber slices over their eyes are practically synonymous with spas. Many people have pooh-poohed it as a cliche, but there’s real power in those slices. Cucumber extract is good for acne, contains high levels of antioxidants, modulates transepidermal water loss, and fortifies the skin lipid barrier, all of which mean healthier skin.
Cucumber WaterUse this water as a toner, or for eye and facial compresses.
Ingredients:
2 organic English cucumbers (seedless); 24 ounces of warm water; Lemon or lime (optional, for scent); 3 sprigs of fresh mint (optional, for scent);
Wash cucumbers and pat dry. Slice cucumber (with peel on) paper-thin. Add slices to sterilized container with warm water. Cover and shake container. Let steep for 10 minutes. Make fresh daily.

The same ingredients can be used to make a pure cucumber juice concentrate by running them through a juicer. The resulting concentrate should be kept in a sterilized container and can be added to many treatments, including clays and dry exfoliants. This should also be made fresh daily.


Botanical OilsThe use of oils to condition the skin is as ubiquitous as using water to cleanse it. Historically, oils were used as cleansers, slathered on and then scraped off with an implement called a strigil. Today, botanical oils are used for their moisturizing and healing benefits.

Flaxseed oil contains some of the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids, and calms skin that is raw and irritated due to conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It helps repair skin cells and hydrates even the driest skin.

Flaxseed Gel MaskFlaxseeds, when boiled and cooled, make gel. This gel can be used alone as a compress, or other ingredients can be added to it for a customized treatment.
Ingredients:
One-third cup whole flaxseeds; 2 cups filtered water or cucumber juice; 4 ounces of aloe vera gel (optional); One-half teaspoon of honey (optional); One-half teaspoon of sunflower seed oil (optional)

Bring water to a boil. Stir in flaxseeds and immediately reduce heat. Stir and simmer until the gel forms (about 10 minutes). Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and then transfer to a sterilized container. Apply to face and decollete with a fan brush for five to ten minutes. Remove with warm towel. Flaxseed gel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Pure Avocado Facial MaskAvocados are known for their “good fats” but they are also full of vitamins and anti-bacterial properties. Flaxseed helps fight inflammation. When combined together, this calming mask will leave the skin looking hydrated and refreshed.

Ingredients:
1 ripe avocado (peeled, pitted, and cubed); 2 tablespoons sunflower seed oil or rice bran oil; 2-3 drops lemon or lime juice (optional); 2 ounces flaxseed gel (optional); 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

In a blender or food processor, process the avocado until smooth. Add other ingredients to mixture slowly. Once mixture is combined, apply to face and decollete with wooden spatula. Leave on skin for 10-15 minutes, remove with warm towel.


Healthy ProbioticsProbiotics–the live cultures in yogurt–exhibit antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits when used on skin. They have been shown to reduce acne lesions by half over an eight-week period. Probiotics increase ceramide production, which boosts skin protection against the bacteria that causes acne.

Creamy Yogurt Facial TreatmentUse this recipe on skin with acne.
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon sunflower seed oil or rice bran oil; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Crushed mint leaves (optional; remove before treatment)

Combine the ingredients together in a bowl. Apply mixture with a fan brush to face and decollete for five to ten minutes. Remove with warm towel. Enjoy learning more and having Natural skincare treatments at our spa llink below

miraclesdayspa.com

Lynn Parentini is a respected author, educator, esthetician, massage therapist, and author of The Joy of Healthy Skin (Prentice Hall, 1995).

Massage Therapy is very Helpful during the cold weather season

So many of us suffer from body changes during the cold weather season. Muscles respond to cold by constricting and If you are already suffering from tight sore muscles and joint inflammation the cold can exacerbate the symptoms. Regular Massage therapy helps to create space in the body and counteracts the constricting effect cold has on the muscles and joints. When the bodies tissues have adequate space many important circulatory, metabolic and immune system responses can occur very efficiently. This efficiency promotes renewed health and well-being. Another added benefit to having regular Massage Therapy during the cold weather season is that massage promotes healthy messages to the nervous system and helps the body resist negative prolonged holding patterns of poor posture and chronic pain “bracing against the cold”. Chronic pain patterns which may be worse when weather  conditions are too cold and damp can be altered into a state of less pain pattern. Giving the body time to adapt to feeling less pain and good health is a very important approach to maintaining a healthy body and mind Massage therapy is extremely helpful in keeping healthy patterns that our bodies can adapt to and begin to adopt.

There are other ways in which you can enhance the benefits of regular Massage therapy. For instance take lots of warm baths and showers. Layer your clothing keep your body warm so that your body may combat the constricting effects of the cold. If you can. Keep active and flexible with regular outdoor and indoor exercise like dancing ,walking and Yoga class.

The holidays are coming give the relaxing and healing gift of Massage . There are many on-line gift certificate providers where you can choose the certificate design and way in which it is sent to the recipient. My site http://www.SpaMiracles.com

Stay warm and well

Christina Powers

Massage and Skincare in your healthy lifestyle

Massage in your healthy lifestyle

November 2014

The Salad Facial

Lynn Parentini

Incorporate fresh vegetables into your skin care routine.

In this Issue

The Salad Facial

Everyone knows the benefits of incorporating fresh vegetables in their diet, but have you ever thought of bringing them into your skin care routine? Salad ingredients are loaded with beneficial nutrients and phytochemicals, and it didn’t take long for researchers to also ponder the power of plants when used on the skin. While making your own products may sound complicated and messy, it’s not. Anyone with a juicer, a food processor,and a fresh market nearby can enjoy these earthy, organic facials as part of a home skin care regime.

Gorgeous Greens No salad would be complete without greens.There are many that impart cooling, hydrating, and soothing effects on skin,but those of note include dandelion greens, parsley,romaine lettuce, and watercress. Dandelion green extract has a cleansing and detoxifying effect on skin The ingredient has been used on ecema and psoriasis and is known to contain high levels of antioxidants and zinc, which boosts immunity. Parsley is high in vitamin C. On skin, the herb is known to help shrink pores as it regulates the production of sebum. It also stimulates the production of collagen, which aids skin healing and reduces wrinkles. Parsley is a free-radical scavenger and helps repair damaged keratinocytes, the most common type of skin cell. Romaine lettuce can be used not only as a compress or wrap, but also in a juice. The extract of this lettuce is high in vitamin K, which strengthens capillaries, and vitamin A, which normalizes skin cell turnover. Watercress is diuretic and therefore anti-inflammatory. This mustard green contains high levels of sulphoraphane, which is antimicrobial and a cancer fighter. Watercress extract has been shown to boost the skin’s UV protection as well. A popular addition to a green salad, or a salad facial, is avocado. The natural oils in avocado offer moisturizing benefits and have gained popularity in skin care. A calming mask leaves the skin hydrated and refreshed. Products and cosmetics as an organic substitute for petrochemicals. Is great for your skin and the environment. Avocados are high in sterols, which are phytochemicals with an anti-cholesterol effect that heal dry skin and eczema. Avocado extract has also been shown to boost the skin’s natural sun protection. It also works against skin laxity as it boosts collagen production.Try this recipe.

Salad Greens Facial Mask

Use only organic ingredients in this

facial rejuvenation mask.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup dandelion greens

1/4 cup parsley

1/4 cup romaine lettuce

1/4 cup watercress

1/4 cup sunflower seed oil

Half a ripe avocado (optional)

A few drops of lemon or lime juice

(optional, for scent and to maintain

color)

1/4 cup of fennel (optional, for scent)

Wash and dry all the salad greens. Pulse

a few times in a food processor. Slowly

add the sunflower seed oil in a constant

stream while the food processor is on.

Allow the mixture to set for at least 10

minutes before application.

Pure Avocado Facial Mask

Avocados are known for their “good

fats” but they are also full of vitamins

and antibacterial properties. Flaxseed

helps fight inflammation. When

combined together, this calming mask

will leave the skin looking hydrated and

refreshed.

Ingredients:

1 ripe avocado (peeled, pitted, and

cubed)

2 tablespoons sunflower seed oil or rice

bran oil

2-3 drops lemon or lime juice

(optional)

2 ounces flaxseed gel (optional)

1 tablespoon honey (optional)

In a blender or food processor, process

the avocado until smooth. Add other

ingredients to mixture slowly. Once

mixture is combined, apply to face and

decollete with wooden spatula. Leave on

skin for 10-15 minutes, then remove

with warm towel.

A Touch of Vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid. On skin, it is antifungal and antibacterial, normalizes pH, and cleanses skin as it breaks up excess sebum. It is often used as a foot soak to remedy athlete’s foot and other fungal conditions. Combine it with honey for even more antifungal, antibacterial, and humectant (moistening) benefits. Honey never goes bad because it has high acid pH and low water content. It is good for acne and eczema, as it soothes skin and prevents infections.

Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic

Use this tonic as an astringent, to

remove product, or to freshen skin.

Ingredients:

7 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 liter distilled water

2 tangerines

1 tablespoon baking soda

Add baking soda to water, and soak the

whole unpeeled tangerines in it for one

hour. This maximizes the amount of oil

that will be extracted in the next step.

Peel the tangerines, cut the peel into

small pieces, and soak the peel pieces in

the apple cider vinegar for up to seven

days in the refrigerator. Strain and pour

into a sterilized bottle.

Lynn Parentini is an author, educator, esthetician,

massage therapist, and author of The Joy of Healthy

Skin (Prentice Hall, 1995).

shared by Miracles Day Spa and Natural Food SkinCare

SpaMiracles.com

Desperate measures for Winter Skin and Body Fatigue

Wow that was a lot of Snow. The news said that New York hasn’t had that much snowfall since 1941 and Pennsylvania had more snow this storm than in the last 115 yrs. All over our country we have had extreme Winter weather. I love the beauty of the Winter but I’m beginning to get bogged down and wiped out by the physical exertion of removing the snow and ice. If your feeling like me or you just need a Spring around the corner reminder try this combination of olfactory delights in your next bath.

Create a relaxing ambiance with your favorite candles perhaps more than one to mimic the feeling of Sunshine in the room. Draw your bath filling the tub halfway with warm water. Add ten drops total of essential oils into the water. Once in your bath add more warm water to your desired temperature and height.

My favorite recipe to invoke Spring and nourish my skin 4 drops of Rose, 4 drops of chamomile and 2 drops of jasmine.

Here’s where you get to trick your bodymind into thinking it’s a warm Spring day. Close your eyes and take in the Aroma of the essential oils breathe in thru your nose and slowly out thru your mouth. Let the floral bouquet float you away doing your favorite things to do on your favorite Spring day.

When your ready add 2 Tablespoons of skin oil to the bath splash it around soak it up into your skin lightly towel off, wrap up in some cotton pajamas and rest awhile.