How fruit and vegetable juice improves the skin

Posted on April 1, 2013 by TotalSocialSolutions

Fruit and vegetables provide the body with many vitamins and minerals that are essential to health, but what some haven’t considered is how they can improve the skin as well. People have been looking for many years at various cures and creams to improve skin health, but the answer may very well be in all natural fruits and vegetables that provide great anti-oxidant effects as well as cleansing properties.

Fruit juice and vegetable juice both help skin by supplying it with the building blocks it needs to continually repair itself from the daily barrage of dryness and weathering it encounters. The other function they serve is to rehydrate skin and provide moisture, allowing your cells to roll with the punches and replenish your complexion. Fruit eaten gives your skin the same benefits as it does applied directly to the surface, the only difference is it takes weeks to notice results from dietary changes alone.

If fruit juice is applied directly, results can be noticed a lot more quickly as the juices soak in and take effect. Fruits like kiwis and avocados are known for their textures and health benefits, and have shown some interesting promise if applied in alternative ways. Some people have had great success with these “fruit facials” and tout the consistency of their effects, but this is something that should be experimented with at the individual level for true results.

Peaches, bananas, cucumbers, strawberries, and even pineapple (the inside of course) all make great healthy facials for your skin. Once you have figured out which fruits and veggies work with your skin, you can get that amazing vitality without the price of harsh creams.

Botulinum Toxin: What It Is and How It Works

Posted on March 10, 2013 by TotalSocialSolutions

The first thing to get out of the way is that the botulinum toxin is infact, a toxin. It’s derived from a bacteria that is one of the most toxic substances known. However, like so many otherwise poisonous and deadly substances, humans have found a way to put it to good use.

Often going under the name of Botox, botulinum toxin is one of the more popular methods for reducing wrinkles and lines and improving the overall look and youthfulness of the face.

The toxin comes in two forms, A and B. It works because it interrupts the signals the nerves send to the facial muscles, which in effect, paralyzes the muscles. The relaxation causes wrinkles to disappear or become much less noticeable. Sometimes dermatologists combine botulinum toxin with other therapies like dermabrasion, or chemical peels. The combination of all of these modalities can actually stop new wrinkles from forming on the face.

The dermatologist who uses botulinum toxin must be extremely precise, not only because of the nature of the substance but to make sure they’re targeting the right facial muscle. There are close to four dozen facial muscles and a dermatologist who injects the toxin needs to know where they are and what they do.

The procedure is generally brief, though real problem areas like deep furrows might take more than one injection. There’s no down time after the procedure and the patient can resume their normal life. However, they must refrain from rubbing the area where the toxin is injected because the action might cause it to spread and paralyze muscles that weren’t meant to be treated. Though it’s exceedingly rare, the botulinum toxin can migrate to areas that control breathing and swallowing. This is a medical emergency.

Usually the procedure and its aftermath are uneventful. Patients should be able to see improvement after about a week. The improvements last a few months before the botulinum toxin begins to fade. Then, the patient might opt to have more injections.

Get your Botox or Dysport from an experienced aesthetic nurse. Contact Connie Brennan RN at http://a.pgtb.me/cZV5 for an appointment right away.

Importance of receiving regular facials

Posted on January 20, 2013 by TotalSocialSolutions

You may think that a facial is something you should have only as a luxury or every once in a while. The truth is that regular facials are important for your skin. Whether you choose to have a facial in your home in the one hour you have free, or go to see a professional, regular facials can have a benefit on both your physical and mental being.

Professional versus home facials

It is easy to give yourself a facial at home. There is information online on how to do this and for some, this may be a good choice. There are plenty of products on the market that will give you the benefits of a good facial at home. However, a professional facial gives you a chance to work with a skin care specialist. A skin care specialist can look at your skin and point out problem areas and give you advice on how to take care of your skin at home.

What is included in a facial?

A facial is more than just a few cucumbers on your eyes and some moisturizing cream on your face. A good facial will include a mask that deeply cleans pores you can’t see with the naked eye. A facial will also include moisturizers, toners and a facial massage that will leave your skin looking younger and healthier.

Why you need regular facials

Your face is the one area of your body that is almost always exposed to the outside elements including wind, sun, and cold. In order to keep your face looking young and jubilant, you need to take care of your face. A deep cleansing and moisturizing facial is one way to do so. Also, a regular facial has the obvious outward benefits of youth and vitality with psychological effects of improved self esteem.

Anti aging effects

Regular facials can help your over the counter anti aging products work better. The reason for this is that regular facials help to relax the muscles and tone your face. This helps the anti aging products you use to absorb into the skin better than they would without regular facials.

Various types of facials

There are various types of facials that you can get. All are deep cleansing, but there are special products for those who have sensitive skin problems such as facial bumps and blemishes. Facial masks will help to unclog your pores and clear up your skin. Facials also help to balance the oil in your skin and keep your skin moisturized.

How often should I get a facial?

Facials are beneficial at least once every thirty days. You do not want to do them too often because that can have an opposite effect on the skin, but once a month will keep your skin looking its best. Then, when you are at home, or in between facials it is very important to take care of your skin by washing your face and moisturizing it daily. You also need to remember to use sun protection on your face either in your moisturizer, your foundation, or on your own. If you have oily skin make sure to find an oil free moisturizer and sunscreen.

Facials are best thought of as a regular part of your beauty and cleansing routine. Either receiving regular facials or giving yourself facials at home is important for proper care of your face.

Looking for more great skincare and beauty tips? Like Connie Brennan RN, Aesthetic Nurse on Facebook!

3 great exercises you can do at home

Posted on December 23, 2012 by TotalSocialSolutions

We are all busy, right?

When it comes to getting and staying in shape, it is not always possible to hit the gym whenever you need to get some physical activity in to your routine.

To help this, here are three great exercises you can do at home to make up for those times and situations when you are stuck inside of your home. Whether the weather has you snowed in or if you are home caring for a sick child, you can still find ways to get some exercise in, even while at home.

The first is to use your stairs. If you have stairs in your home, find reasons to walk and jog up and down the stairs. If you want to make the exercise more challenging, carry items such as laundry as you go.

The second way to exercise at home is to clean. Getting on your hands and knees to scrub floors, reaching high and far to dust and clean windows and really using some elbow grease to clean your home will have you getting both your house and your body in shape.

The third way to get some physical activity in at home is to get up and walk. You can walk or jog in place, just about anywhere in your home. In fact, if you have a favorite television show, use that time to walk, jog and jump in from of the television so not only are you up and moving, you are also passing the time by catching up on your favorite show at the same time.

Getting the blood pumping has all sorts of benefits, including detoxifying the body and purifying your skin’s appearance.

So try one of these three at-home exercises today!

For more fitness and beauty tips, check out aesthetic nurse Connie Brennan RN’s Facebook page.

Signs You Should Get a Doctor to Look at Your Mole

Posted on December 16, 2012 by TotalSocialSolutions

Common moles are usually smaller than the width of a pencil eraser, or about 0.25 inch in diameter. A common mole is either round or oval and has a smooth surface. Often common moles are dome-shaped on top, but they may be flat to the skin surrounding them. This type of mole is pink, tan or a shade of brown from a very light color to a very dark brown or black color.

If you have a mole that changes color it may be developing into melanoma. Moles with two different colors denote a change that needs to be seen by a doctor. If a mole changes in size by growing bigger or smaller suddenly and into an uneven shape that is not circular or oval, it is time for a doctor’s checkup.

Moles may change in height by getting taller from the skin or have a scaly texture. These changes signify the need for professional help. When moles become very hard or feel as they have lumps in them, they could be turning into melanoma. Consult with a physician if your moles are very itchy or they ooze fluid or start to bleed.

Basically, any change in a common mole suggests the need to see a doctor to make certain that you are not contracting skin cancer. Melanoma is a serious skin cancer that if left untreated can spread to your lungs, bones, liver and to your brain. Measuring and observing your common moles at least once a month will keep you advised of the changes they incur so you can visit a doctor at the first sign of change.

Bottom line is that any mole that looks all irregular should be taken seriously, and you should consult with your dermatologist. Annual skin checks are a great way to make sure that ‘hidden’ moles on your back and other hard to see places are not problematic.

Protecting your skin is important. Contact Connie Brennan RN in Minnesota to learn how to protect your skin from sun damage plus great skin and beauty tips on her Facebook page.

5 ways to make your hair grow longer, faster

Posted on December 8, 2012 by TotalSocialSolutions

Many people associate a woman’s beauty with her hair. And for that matter, many people associate a man’s health and wellness by the thickness and health of his hair

That is why so many people want beautiful and healthy hair. Unfortunately for women, it can be quite difficult to grow hair out of you are unaware of the ways to make your hair grow longer, faster.

OK, ladies, here are five effective ways to grow hair fast!

1. Massaging your scalp and hair with natural oils such as olive and coconut oil speeds up hair growth. Natural oils are very good for the hair and scalp. Not only do oils help increase hair growth but also it improves hair texture.
2. Use high quality moisturizing shampoo and conditioner makes hair grow faster. Hair needs a great amount of moisture. If your hair is not properly moisturized it will not grow quickly.
3. Upholding a healthy diet provides hair with the vitamins and minerals that it needs in order to grow quickly 4. Trimming your hair regularly helps to get rid of split ends and preserve shape. When hair is growing, it can start to look uneven without a trim.
5. Cleansing the scalp prevents the buildup which stops hair from growing. A healthy clean scalp produces healthy hair.

Overall, growing hair faster is easy. All you ladies have to do is follow these five easy steps to grow hair longer, faster.

Let’s face it, you put so much time, effort, and money into your skin’s appearance, why not put the same time and attention into your hair?

Find more great beauty & skincare tips from aesthetic nurse Connie Brennan RN when you join us on Facebook!

Amazing Vegetables that Boost Your Energy

Posted on December 1, 2012 by TotalSocialSolutions

Everyone experiences it, times where you just do not seem to have enough energy to attack the day.

But, what can be done to increase the body’s energy level?

There have been several news articles lately about certain foods aiding in boosting ones energy, from guidelines on eating multiple meals a day to eating particular fruits. Fruits however, are not the only energy boosting food; vegetables can help increase energy levels as well.

Here are five amazing vegetables that can increase your energy levels:

Carrots are a quick and easy vegetable snack that is not only good for you but can help increase energy. Carrots are sweet so they can help curb cravings for cookies or cake, while adding the benefit of beta carotene to your system.

Celery is one of the best energy boosting vegetables, it is easy for the system to digest quickly, and is full of vitamins B and C as well as fiber. Additionally, Celery helps the body to balance salt and potassium.

Green Salads for lunch or snack, with a healthy dressing, helps increase your energy because green salads are filled with minerals and vitamins that our bodies crave such as chlorophyll. Green Salads are also very easy to digest, meaning the benefits get into your system faster.

Spinach is one of nature’s most nutrient-rich vegetables and is rich in iron. Iron deficiencies can cause people to feel tired. Just one half cup of boiled spinach offers 20 percent of you daily allowance of iron.

Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin C, which helps to increase energy, as well as complex carbohydrates. Having a sweet potato for a snack will help keep you full between meals and offer a long lasting energy affect due to their long sugar molecule chains, which break down slowly in the system.

So next time you are feeling out of energy, take a short break and snack on one of these energy boosting vegetables, and you will be on track in no time.

As a side benefit, your skin will look more glowing and thank you for it!

Learn more about getting a healthy body and healthier skin from aesthetic nurse Connie Brennan RN.

Eczema treatments your doctor can prescribe for you

Posted on November 23, 2012 by TotalSocialSolutions

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition. If you think you have eczema, look for inflammation, red skin, and itching. Other cases may include an outbreak of scaly lesions. The good news is, eczema is not contagious, and you need not quarantine yourself until you’re diagnosed by a professional.

Your dermatological provider will prescribe different treatment plans, depending on your needs. In crafting a treatment plan, she will consider both the severity of your condition and the exact variety of your eczema condition. If you have eczema, you will likely need multiple treatment plans to get it under control, and many health providers will suggest lifestyle changes to treat it.

The primary goal of your dermatological provider is control your symptoms (again, the inflammation, redness, itching and scaling that you may be experiencing).

Often she will suggest that you make sure your skin stays hydrated, and caution you to avoid bathing too often (which can dry skin out). Often, she will prescribe low water/high oil content ointments and corticosteroid creams to treat inflammation. Severe itching requires an antihistamine prescription.

Your dermatological provider has a wealth of drugs and over-the-counter solutions at her disposal to address your eczema conditions. Please don’t hesitate to consult one immediately.

Learn more about common skin conditions and treatments from aesthetic nurse, Connie Brennan RN.

Vitamins you should be sure to take when you turn 40

Posted on November 16, 2012 by TotalSocialSolutions

It seems that everyone wants to grow older, but no one enjoys appearing to be her actual age.

While hair can be colored and wardrobes can be updated to make one look younger, a person’s skin can often let out the secret of carefully hidden maturity. Covering up unhealthy skin with cosmetics is not the best solution for a more youthful appearance. Preserving healthy skin from a young age is important if one wants to keep drinking from the proverbial fountain of youth.

Protecting skin from the sun, eating a healthful diet and abstaining from smoking can subtract years from skin. However, there are also vitamins available to aid in keeping skin flawless after 40 and beyond. Vitamin A seems to be an all-around great maintainer of skin. It strengthens and repairs skin as well as prevents dry skin, acne and wrinkles.

Vitamin C has a reputation to help the immune system, but it also heals wounded skin. Another way to speed healing due to sun damage is taking Vitamin E supplements.

Skin tone is greatly improved by Vitamin B consumption. Stress causes many skin problems such as eczema, and this vitamin is known to reduce stress. Healing processes and immune function are also aided by zinc supplementation.

While outside exposure to age-inducing agents should be avoided, inner consumption of healthful vitamin supplements is essential to a complete anti-aging skin regimen. Adding a few supplements to an otherwise healthy diet can ensure healthful skin even as the years advance.

Learn more about beauty for the 40+ lovelies with aesthetic nurse Connie Brennan, RN — offering botox injections, dermal fillers, non-surgical facelift procedures, frown line removal and more in Minnesota.

Hair Washing – How Much Is Too Much?

Posted on November 8, 2012 by TotalSocialSolutions

Many people shampoo their hair daily as part of their normal shower routine. For most of them this is unnecessary. Washing too often can make hair dull looking and uncooperative. Unless you’re working with extremely oily hair, every other day should be plenty. African-Americans and those with curly hair could easily go even longer between washings.

The harsh detergents in many shampoos are notorious for stripping the hair of its natural oils, called sebum. These oils are what give hair its healthy-looking shine. Lathering up too often leads to hair that looks and feels dried out and lifeless.

It’s more important to wash hair properly than to wash it often. Before shampooing, the hair should be thoroughly saturated. With a small amount of product massage the scalp. This is where dirt collects, so the scalp is where effort needs to be concentrated. Once that is accomplished, the remainder of the shampoo can be rinsed out. The hair itself receives enough cleansing just from the soap running over it.

Condition once the hair is clean. A small amount applied to the ends is all that’s needed. Over-conditioning closer to the scalp can cause hair to lay flat and even appear greasy. The ends are where breakage occurs, so any conditioning should be concentrated there.

How much is too much shampooing? There’s no answer to satisfy everyone. Experimentation is vital. But it’s clear that at least in the case of shampooing, sometimes less really is more.

Looking for more great beauty tips? Visit Connie Brennan RN, aesthetic nurse on Facebook and join our growing community!