Clover Power - In Honor of St. Patrick's Day

Red clover (trifolium pratense) is a wild, perennial herb commonly grown in meadows throughout Europe and Asia, and North America. It is a phytoestrogen (mimics and supplements the body's own estrogen hormones) and a powerful antioxidant containing four primary isoflavones (plant based chemicals that produce estrogen like effects in and on the body) present in soybeans - daidzein, biochanin-A, formonetin, and genistein.  It is said to reduce symptoms of menopause, have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties capable of reducing inflammation and softening the skin, increase the synthesis of collagen and elastin, heal infections and skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema, and improve blood circulation to nourish the skin. 

Tocopherol, a type of vitamin E, is present in red clover offering great antioxidant properties. Red Clover, a source of vegetable/herbal estrogen, is often used for menopausal women who are experiencing hormonal imbalances that greatly contribute to adversely altering the skin and hastening the aging process, i.e., wrinkles, dryness, age spots, lack of elasticity, hair loss.  It is also a source of many nutrients including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorous, potassium, thiamine, and vitamin C. 

Warning - the estrogen phytochemicals found in red clover are generally unsuitable for women diagnosed with breast cancer as well as those who are pregnant or breast feeding.  

Skin Tone and the Perception of Age

The focal point of the anti-aging world has historically centered around skin care that works hard at minimizing wrinkles, facial lines and sagging skin. Anti-aging always meant anti-wrinkle. More recently, however, the focus has dramatically shifted to the skin's tone and coloration, particularly since recent research concluded that the evenness of the complexion plays a critical role in the perception of one's age.

Case in point. A team of biologists in Europe used 3D technology to understand the impact of skin tone and discolorations with respect to beauty and aging. 430 participants were asked to guess the ages of digital images of 169 females between the ages of 11 and 76. The digital images were photoshopped to present healthier and even skin tones. Most were judged to be younger than their actual age. These results confirmed that skin tone greatly impacts a woman's perceived age, and in some cases, actually erred on the side of youth by up to 12 years.

Healthy skin reflects light evenly resulting in a youthful glow. Mature skin, on the other hand, lacks collagen and moisture and absorbs light which visibly translates to a dull complexion giving an older, more aged appearance. In fact, when light hits a rough and irregular surface, the light scatters and actually highlights imperfections. This research is invaluable to cosmetic companies to help 'set the right tone' of the anti-aging movement. Expect to see more effective *primers, *concealers and *foundations on the market that will even out skin tone and present a much more youthful complexion.

*If you have found a great primer, concealer, and/or foundation, please share it with us. Email us at beautyeditorpost@gmail.com and tell us all about it!

Telomeres and Telomerase - Life Extension Technology

Is science is on the verge of winning the war on aging through cellular immortality? Big question . . . one opening doors all the way down life's hallway. A Nobel Prize was awarded last year (2009) for research in Telomeres and Telomerase Enzyme Research. Telomeres are aptly described as life's little time keepers - clocks that regulate the aging process. They are little caps (yellow dots in the picture) attached at the end of every strand of DNA, fittingly described as the plastic tips on the ends of shoelaces. Each time a cell divides, telomeres shorten. Once the telomeres are too short, cells become sluggish and ultimately unresponsive. They no longer divide. The youth generating duplication process comes to a close and the degradation process results in the loss of elasticity, volume depletion, and negative changes in the skin texture. Telomerase is a natural 'bodyguard' enzyme that provides protection to the telomeres by offering a deeper stability in maintaining its health and length. Once the telomerase is activated telomeres will continue their youth-keeping activity and literally turn back time. This is what some call the "immortal cell theory."

Telomere technology is anti-aging skin care's tipping point . . . the little things that make a very big difference. Since telomeres are present in plants and animals sourcing telomerase enzymes becomes a much easier task. There is no doubt we will all be hearing much more more about the telomere's anti-aging philosophy of divide and conquer.

Anti-Aging Products vs Skin Type

We all need anti-age treatments for our skin, . . . well the largest percentage of the population anyway. However, it is equally important to ensure that the needs of our specific skin types are addressed. For example, a skin that lacks sebum (oil) is dry skin. A no brainer, right? Right. So, no matter how much money you throw at buying an intense firming anti-age treatment, it will not have the desired effect unless the dryness is taken into consideration and treated.

An oily skin type must also be acknowledged before, and during, an anti-age treatment to obtain the desired results. Products that are too rich, products that are not emollient enough, those that use stimulating procedures (products, machines or massage), or those not stimulating enough will have a definite effect on the outcome of the treatment. All these components must be carefully thought out.

Anti-aging skin care has come a long way. There are incredible treatments ranging from standard facial cares to those incorporating equipment, including light therapy and microdermabrasion. It can all be rather confusing, not to mention a big money waster without proper guidance. The key is to work with a professional esthetician who can guide you as to what is best for your skin type while addressing your anti-aging concerns and gain professional insight for effective home care.

Best Of . . . Anti-Aging - Top Five Things - Part 2

3. PROPER SKIN CARE AND BODY CARE
Select proper skin care for your face and body and reap the healthy benefits of glowing skin. Always wear a good sunscreen. Protect your skin from moisture loss by using a good hydrating cream. Moisture loss causes the surface layers to thicken (duller complexion) and contributes to an older appearance. Find products that offer anti-age actives, such as anti-oxidants (a must), peptides or ingredients to promote regeneration. Change up your skin care products a few times a year for better results. Don't forget to indulge in regular exfoliation treatments. Exfoliation helps keep the surface of the skin in good health, promotes new cell regeneration, and allows for better penetration of your skin care products.

4. MEDITATION - No matter what method is chosen there is no doubt that meditation frees your body and mind from stress. Stress is one of the main contributors to free radical activity in our bodies, (degeneration of tissues, mutation of cells, disease). Meditation is a big key to anti-aging because of the biochemical changes that occur in the body as a result. The deep relaxation associated with meditation provides many proven benefits, such as lowering stress hormones (epinephrine), lowering blood pressure, promoting an elevated state of healing, lowering pain thresholds, strengthening the immune system, boosting heart function, lowering cholesterol, keeping the arteries clear, reducing pain, dealing with fatigue, and offering a longer and happier life. EEG studies of the brain show a boost in the intensity of the alpha wave while in a relaxed, receptive state which kicks into gear good mental health and creative concentration. Is it any wonder why meditation is an enormous part of the anti-aging movement? A perfect inner state of peace is beauty personified. A beauty that doesn't diminish with time or age.

5. LAUGHTER
Laughter is considered the best medicine there is. Mark Twain said, "the human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter."A hearty laugh relieves stress-releasing b-endorphins giving the, I feel re-energized, I feel great feeling. Scientifically proven, good laughter can instantly lower blood pressure in hypersensitive people. The Dr. Lee Berk reveals a healthy connection between laughter and wellness and reports the evidence is "mind-blowing." He says that, "laughter brings about a state of eustress, which in psychological terms is the right opposite of distress." Laughter enriches blood vessels with oxygen enhancing the body's blood circulation. Blood circulation gives the skin a glow, boosts your brain function, and enhances a sense of wellness. The one who laughs the longest, laughs last.

Best Of . . . Anti-Aging - Top Five Things - Part 1

What are the top five things I can do to combat the aging process and have a more youthful look?

A youthful look, . . . well, other than your genes (and we don't mean your Levis) that will definitely depend upon how well you take care of "all" of you. Having a young face on an old body just simply does not work. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Serious anti-aging programs do not singularly focus on wrinkles and sagging skin, but address the very 'heart' of your health. In keeping with that thought, here are our top five things you can do to fight the age bomb . . .

1. DIET
There is no question that an anti-aging diet offers a 'live longer, live healthier' life. A healthy diet needs to be well thought out and balanced in concert with your body type and should include all of the food groups, preferably in variety. Fruits, veggies, green tea along with foods that are loaded with anti-oxidants are a good bet. It has been suggested that eating small amounts 3 to 5 times a day is the best way to go. Foods rich in anti-oxidants, or phytonutrients, neutralize the free radicals that are responsible age related troubles, such as memory loss, heart disease, cancer, and help win the battle against oxidative stress (too many free radicals) that are responsible for these conditions.

Dr. Perricone, a board certified clinical and research dermatologist reports that, "age related changes may be reversed by consuming foods and beverages that are rich in a variety of compounds, including antioxidants, and are anti-inflammatory, such as cold-water fish and richly colored fruits and vegetables." He goes on to say, "foods classified as pro-inflammatory can accelerate aging such as, saturated or trans fatty acids, sugars and starches, insulin levels surge and trigger a response that accelerates the aging process."

Also, your body needs 1 gram of protein for each kilogram of body weight, and preferably complete proteins (offer the 8 essential amino acids), amino acids are the building blocks for the proteins in our body, and proteins are the building blocks for most of our body tissues (collagen, elastin, fibroblasts, antibodies, skin cells included.) If you work out you may need to increase the amount of protein. The six essential nutrient constituents needed for healthy tissues are proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. If the nutrient requirement is not supplied there will be cellular atrophy, which promotes free radical activity and accelerates aging.

Last, but certainly not least, drink lots and lots of water each day. A good guide for this is to remember your body needs half your body weight in ounces of water each day. For example, if you weigh 130 lbs. you will need to drink 65 ounces of water per day, which is approximately 8 full glasses, . . . and no, that does not include the water in your coffee.

2. EXERCISE AND SUFFICIENT REST
Exercise is essential for healthy tissues which equals healthy bodies. Exercise triggers the body cells to regenerate, giving us healthier cells, tissues, bodies, minds. Not to mention, exercise is a great way to rid stress and improve cardio vascular, which means your cells will get more oxygen and allow for better regeneration and detoxification. Consistency is key, so once or twice a month won't cut it. A little every day is great, or at the very least, three times a week is highly recommended.

Now, about the rest of the equation. Getting enough sleep every night is very, very important. It is a sacred time when your body restores its energy levels, repairs and regenerates tissue, builds bone and muscle, and works hard at strengthening your immune system. It is a time when your mind de-stresses and emotional healing takes place. Is it any wonder why medical professionals insist that sleep deprivation poses definite health risks? Everyone must pay attention to the nurturance of sleep and ensure a solid 7 - 8 hours each and every night, . . . no more, no less.

Anti-Aging - Top Five Things Part 1

What are the top five things I can do to combat the aging process and have a more youthful look?

A youthful look, . . . well, other than your genes (and we don't mean your Levis) that will definitely depend upon how well you take care of "all" of you. Having a young face on an old body just simply does not work. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Serious anti-aging programs do not singularly focus on wrinkles and sagging skin, but address the very 'heart' of your health. In keeping with that thought, here are our top five things you can do to fight the age bomb . . .

1. DIET
There is no question that an anti-aging diet offers a 'live longer, live healthier' life. A healthy diet needs to be well thought out and balanced in concert with your body type and should include all of the food groups, preferably in variety. Fruits, veggies, green tea along with foods that are loaded with anti-oxidants are a good bet. It has been suggested that eating small amounts 3 to 5 times a day is the best way to go. Foods rich in anti-oxidants, or phytonutrients, neutralize the free radicals that are responsible age related troubles, such as memory loss, heart disease, cancer, and help win the battle against oxidative stress (too many free radicals) that are responsible for these conditions.

Dr. Perricone, a board certified clinical and research dermatologist reports that, "age related changes may be reversed by consuming foods and beverages that are rich in a variety of compounds, including antioxidants, and are anti-inflammatory, such as cold-water fish and richly colored fruits and vegetables." He goes on to say, "foods classified as pro-inflammatory can accelerate aging such as, saturated or trans fatty acids, sugars and starches, insulin levels surge and trigger a response that accelerates the aging process."

Also, your body needs 1 gram of protein for each kilogram of body weight, and preferably complete proteins (offer the 8 essential amino acids), amino acids are the building blocks for the proteins in our body, and proteins are the building blocks for most of our body tissues (collagen, elastin, fibroblasts, antibodies, skin cells included.) If you work out you may need to increase the amount of protein. The six essential nutrient constituents needed for healthy tissues are proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. If the nutrient requirement is not supplied there will be cellular atrophy, which promotes free radical activity and accelerates aging.

Last, but certainly not least, drink lots and lots of water each day. A good guide for this is to remember your body needs half your body weight in ounces of water each day. For example, if you weigh 130 lbs. you will need to drink 65 ounces of water per day, which is approximately 8 full glasses, . . . and no, that does not include the water in your coffee.

2. EXERCISE AND SUFFICIENT REST
Exercise is essential for healthy tissues which equals healthy bodies. Exercise triggers the body cells to regenerate, giving us healthier cells, tissues, bodies, minds. Not to mention, exercise is a great way to rid stress and improve cardio vascular, which means your cells will get more oxygen and allow for better regeneration and detoxification. Consistency is key, so once or twice a month won't cut it. A little every day is great, or at the very least, three times a week is highly recommended.

Now, about the rest of the equation. Getting enough sleep every night is very, very important. It is a sacred time when your body restores its energy levels, repairs and regenerates tissue, builds bone and muscle, and works hard at strengthening your immune system. It is a time when your mind de-stresses and emotional healing takes place. Is it any wonder why medical professionals insist that sleep deprivation poses definite health risks? Everyone must pay attention to the nurturance of sleep and ensure a solid 7 - 8 hours each and every night, . . . no more, no less.

Part 2 - Friday

SOTHYS Secrets Global Anti-Age De-stressing Serum

Serum Category: Anti-Age
Sothys Secrets Serum is aptly described as a 'triple-action time fighter' providing exceptional clinical results - a 21% decrease in the depth of wrinkles after 15 days of use and a 26% decrease after 30 days. Skin firmness was improved by 19% after 15 days of use and 25% after 30 days.

The Secrets Serum is only for those who are 38+, looking for a concentrated formula of anti-age actives, and who are beginning to notice age related (hormone-stressed) skin. This light, creamy serum has an interesting mix of powerful peptides along with the fragrance of ylang ylang and marjoram to help the skin destress. Why is that important? A destressed skin is more receptive to other active ingredients. The Secrets Serum contains a cocktail of anti-oxidants to address free radical damage, peptides to promote cellular nutrition and function, and an iris extract to promote regeneration and longevity of dermal proteins giving the skin back some of its firmness. Sothys has incorporated two extracts from the prickly pear into this formula, one to promote natural exfoliation giving radiance to the skin and promote cell renewal, the other to trigger a neutralizing action on stresses or irritations to the skin thereby preventing the free radical activity that would normally result.

This is a very active serum that helps defend the cells against aging. Recommended for use twice a day, however, we would advise that once a day may be enough for delicate skin. A great boost especially for the perimenopausal woman. A perfect pairing for Sothys Secrets Cream. An addictive luxury's accomplice? Indeed.

1.35 oz US (40 ml Canada)