Skin Care Products

Thanks for your question. The winter season tends to be tough on skin, no matter who you are. However, for the first time last winter, my skin reacted worse than usual: I got my first case of eczema on all the knuckles of my right hand, so I understand first hand how uncomfortable this can be.

There are all types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact eczema, seborrheic eczema, nummular eczema, hand dermatitis, and more. The most common type is atopic dermatitis—a chronic skin disease that causes itchy, inflamed skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 10-20 percent of children and 1-3 percent of adults have atopic dermatitis. The majority of sufferers get it in childhood before the age of five, but it can appear at puberty or later, like mine did last winter. Fortunately for those who get it as children, the disease usually lessens in severity with age.

As far as what causes eczema, we still don’t know. It seems to run in families, and to occur more often in people who suffer from hay fever and/or asthma. Many types of eczema are connected to allergies. Irritant contact dermatitis, for example, occurs after a sensitive person is exposed to harsh detergents, fragrances and dyes, or other irritants. Allergic contact dermatitis can develop when the person is exposed to something to which they’re allergic.

Considering this strong connection to allergies, we can see why researchers believe that having an overactive immune system can be a factor in the condition. In most cases, the inflammation in the skin is caused by the immune cells overreacting to something—be it an irritant or an allergen—and launching an assault that results in inflammation. Compromised skin can also be at greater risk. When skin is dry, flaky, or fragile, the outer layer is not as strong and protective as it should be, so it tends to allow microscopic irritants and allergens to enter the body and cause trouble. That’s one reason why the winter season can bring on cases of eczema, because winter skin is often compromised.

Here are some natural solutions you can try on your niece that may help her skin to heal without steroids:

1) Make sure she uses lukewarm, not hot, water when she washes.

2)Choose gentle, non-toxic cleansers and have her moisturize immediately after every cleansing. California Baby has some great non-dehydrating and safe products.

3) Add oatmeal to her bath and have her soak—it’s a natural anti-inflammatory and will help calm and soothe her skin.

4) Try natural vitamin E on the affected areas—it can help moisturize and heal.

5) Look for creams that contain calendula and yarrow—these herbs naturally help relieve itchiness. California baby and Weleda both have baby products with Calendula.

6) Try moisturizing her skin with natural, virgin oils like coconut—which is highly recommended for many skin conditions—rosemary, and sesame.

7) Above all—find out if her eczema is triggered by allergies, then try to reduce her exposure to the allergen. If allergies are involved, her doctor may advise you to get her a patch test to help identify those things that she's allergic to. Here is a post I did on allergy patch testing that might be helpful http://cincovidas.com/allergic-skin-patch-testing-may-help-pinpoint-allergens/

I also wanted to give you a link to 2 blog posts I wrote about our diets and eczema. One is about gluten http://cincovidas.com/dry-itchy-skin-you-may-be-sensitive-to-gluten/ and the other is about dairy http://cincovidas.com/is-the-dairy-in-your-diet-compromising-your-skin/. Just a little more info to give you something else to think about when finding more natural and holistic ways to treat her eczema.

I hope this helps!
Thanks Thanks for your question. The winter season tends to be tough on skin, no matter who you are. However, for the first time last winter, my skin reacted worse than usual: I got my first case of eczema on all the knuckles of my right hand, so I understand first hand how uncomfortable this can be.

There are all types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact eczema, seborrheic eczema, nummular eczema, hand dermatitis, and more. The most common type is atopic dermatitis—a chronic skin disease that causes itchy, inflamed skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 10-20 percent of children and 1-3 percent of adults have atopic dermatitis. The majority of sufferers get it in childhood before the age of five, but it can appear at puberty or later, like mine did last winter. Fortunately for those who get it as children, the disease usually lessens in severity with age.

As far as what causes eczema, we still don’t know. It seems to run in families, and to occur more often in people who suffer from hay fever and/or asthma. Many types of eczema are connected to allergies. Irritant contact dermatitis, for example, occurs after a sensitive person is exposed to harsh detergents, fragrances and dyes, or other irritants. Allergic contact dermatitis can develop when the person is exposed to something to which they’re allergic.

Considering this strong connection to allergies, we can see why researchers believe that having an overactive immune system can be a factor in the condition. In most cases, the inflammation in the skin is caused by the immune cells overreacting to something—be it an irritant or an allergen—and launching an assault that results in inflammation. Compromised skin can also be at greater risk. When skin is dry, flaky, or fragile, the outer layer is not as strong and protective as it should be, so it tends to allow microscopic irritants and allergens to enter the body and cause trouble. That’s one reason why the winter season can bring on cases of eczema, because winter skin is often compromised.

Here are some natural solutions you can try on your niece that may help her skin to heal without steroids:

1) Make sure she uses lukewarm, not hot, water when she washes.

2)Choose gentle, non-toxic cleansers and have her moisturize immediately after every cleansing. California Baby has some great non-dehydrating and safe products.

3) Add oatmeal to her bath and have her soak—it’s a natural anti-inflammatory and will help calm and soothe her skin.

4) Try natural vitamin E on the affected areas—it can help moisturize and heal.

5) Look for creams that contain calendula and yarrow—these herbs naturally help relieve itchiness. California baby and Weleda both have baby products with Calendula.

6) Try moisturizing her skin with natural, virgin oils like coconut—which is highly recommended for many skin conditions—rosemary, and sesame.

7) Above all—find out if her eczema is triggered by allergies, then try to reduce her exposure to the allergen. If allergies are involved, her doctor may advise you to get her a patch test to help identify those things that she's allergic to. Here is a post I did on allergy patch testing that might be helpful http://cincovidas.com/allergic-skin-patch-testing-may-help-pinpoint-allergens/

I also wanted to give you a link to 2 blog posts I wrote about our diets and eczema. One is about gluten http://cincovidas.com/dry-itchy-skin-you-may-be-sensitive-to-gluten/ and the other is about dairy http://cincovidas.com/is-the-dairy-in-your-diet-compromising-your-skin/. Just a little more info to give you something else to think about when finding more natural and holistic ways to treat her eczema.

I hope this helps!
Thanks

Thanks for your question. Yes, I do! When readers sign up for my newsletter (http://cincovidas.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=3065387b0903e8b6d30913aaf&id=48532d28b6)I give them four wallet-size cards they can download; each card has a list of ingredients to avoid in food, personal care products, home and environment. When looking for safe personal care products, always take the ingredient to avoid card with you and avoid the ingredients listed on it. However, the top 6 offenders I would not let into my home are:

1) Phthaltes: chemicals from oils used to make plastics. Used in hairsprays, fragrances and nail polish. Have been labeled probable carcinogen by the EPA. Many air fresheners contain phthalates as well, including those labeled as “all-natural.” According to the Global Campaign for the Recognition of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), indoor air quality experts recommend against using chemical air fresheners and/or chemical room deodorizers of any kind. Find and remove sources of bad smells, use baking soda to neutralize odors, keep windows open when possible, and try adding drops of organic essential oils to cotton balls and place around the house, or use a diffuser.
What to look for on the label: You can’t look for the word “phthalate” on the ingredient list. Instead, look for names like DBP and DEP


2) Parabens: preservatives found in over 13,000 personal care products. A 2006 study took urine samples from 100 adults and found two of these parabens (methyl- and n-propyl) in over 90 percent of them, with other parabens showing up in over half the samples. Studies have also shown them to be estrogenic and capable of being absorbed by the body through the skin.
What to look for on the label: methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, and propylparaben.

3) SLS or “sulfates": they make shampoos, toothpastes and soap foam up. Products with SLS can be contaminated with 1,4 dioxin, a known animal carcinogen. When combined with other personal-care ingredients, can form “nitrates,” which are linked to cancer.
What to look for on the label: Look for: sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate.


4) Synthetic Fragrance – Its a “trade secret” so they don't have to reveal what it contains. They can have over 200 chemicals (76% of fragrances contain allergens and 16% contain carcinogens) I am referring to both "fragrance" in personal care products as well as perfumes and colognes. Use essential oil based perfumes instead.
What to look for on the label: fragrance or “Parfum”.

5) Chemical sunscreens – There are 2 types of sunscreens:chemical and physical (or mineral). Europe has banned all chemicals sunscreens except 1. They contain hormone altering chemicals. Safest choice: non-micronized physical like zinc oxide with a minimum of SPF 30.
What to look for on the label: oxybenzone, PABA, octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), salicylates, avobenzone, & menthyl anthranilates.

6) Paraffin-Based Candles: These can give off potentially toxic chemicals like astoluene and benzene, labeled as probable carcinogens by the EPA. Some candles have metal-core wicks, which can release lead and other harmful toxins, and some imported and older candles can contain lead-core wicks. Oils used in scented candles, as well, are often petroleum-based synthetics. To protect yourself, avoid paraffin-based candles. Purchase those made of natural waxes like vegetable, soybean, or beeswax. Avoid candles in jars, as they don’t get enough oxygen and can cause toxic black soot. Finally, avoid synthetic-scented varieties and use candles scented with essential oils only.

Hope this helps!
Thanks
Thanks for your question. Yes, I do! When readers sign up for my newsletter (http://cincovidas.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=3065387b0903e8b6d30913aaf&id=48532d28b6)I give them four wallet-size cards they can download; each card has a list of ingredients to avoid in food, personal care products, home and environment. When looking for safe personal care products, always take the ingredient to avoid card with you and avoid the ingredients listed on it. However, the top 6 offenders I would not let into my home are:

1) Phthaltes: chemicals from oils used to make plastics. Used in hairsprays, fragrances and nail polish. Have been labeled probable carcinogen by the EPA. Many air fresheners contain phthalates as well, including those labeled as “all-natural.” According to the Global Campaign for the Recognition of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), indoor air quality experts recommend against using chemical air fresheners and/or chemical room deodorizers of any kind. Find and remove sources of bad smells, use baking soda to neutralize odors, keep windows open when possible, and try adding drops of organic essential oils to cotton balls and place around the house, or use a diffuser.
What to look for on the label: You can’t look for the word “phthalate” on the ingredient list. Instead, look for names like DBP and DEP


2) Parabens: preservatives found in over 13,000 personal care products. A 2006 study took urine samples from 100 adults and found two of these parabens (methyl- and n-propyl) in over 90 percent of them, with other parabens showing up in over half the samples. Studies have also shown them to be estrogenic and capable of being absorbed by the body through the skin.
What to look for on the label: methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, and propylparaben.

3) SLS or “sulfates": they make shampoos, toothpastes and soap foam up. Products with SLS can be contaminated with 1,4 dioxin, a known animal carcinogen. When combined with other personal-care ingredients, can form “nitrates,” which are linked to cancer.
What to look for on the label: Look for: sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate.


4) Synthetic Fragrance – Its a “trade secret” so they don't have to reveal what it contains. They can have over 200 chemicals (76% of fragrances contain allergens and 16% contain carcinogens) I am referring to both "fragrance" in personal care products as well as perfumes and colognes. Use essential oil based perfumes instead.
What to look for on the label: fragrance or “Parfum”.

5) Chemical sunscreens – There are 2 types of sunscreens:chemical and physical (or mineral). Europe has banned all chemicals sunscreens except 1. They contain hormone altering chemicals. Safest choice: non-micronized physical like zinc oxide with a minimum of SPF 30.
What to look for on the label: oxybenzone, PABA, octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), salicylates, avobenzone, & menthyl anthranilates.

6) Paraffin-Based Candles: These can give off potentially toxic chemicals like astoluene and benzene, labeled as probable carcinogens by the EPA. Some candles have metal-core wicks, which can release lead and other harmful toxins, and some imported and older candles can contain lead-core wicks. Oils used in scented candles, as well, are often petroleum-based synthetics. To protect yourself, avoid paraffin-based candles. Purchase those made of natural waxes like vegetable, soybean, or beeswax. Avoid candles in jars, as they don’t get enough oxygen and can cause toxic black soot. Finally, avoid synthetic-scented varieties and use candles scented with essential oils only.

Hope this helps!
Thanks

Thanks for your question. Melasma can also be called hyperpigmentation, and basically, it means the skin gets darker in places. Usually, the darker skin doesn’t occur all over, like a nice tan, but in blotches and spots. Scientists aren’t sure why chemotherapy causes hyperpigmentation. (Aside from Tamoxifen, culprit drugs include Alkeran®, Myleran®, Cytoxan®, 5-FU, Adriamycin®, and more.) It may have something to do with inflammation, stimulation of skin-color cells, or toxicity. Radiation, of course, can cause it at the treatment sight. Like most side effects, it typically fades within 10-12 weeks of the last treatment, but sometimes, it becomes a long-term, unwelcome guest. I would suggest the following steps for you:

1) First of all (especially now that you are no longer undergoing treatment) add serious exfoliation to your daily routine. You need to loosen up the dead cells on the top layer of skin so that new, younger cells can come forward. Try natural facial scrubs or enzyme peels like Eminence Yam and Pumpkin Enzyme Pee or microdermabrasion at your local spa, or an organic at-home scrub.

2) Next, become obsessed with protecting yourself from the sun. UV rays trigger the production of melanin, the pigment that produces skin color—and darkened areas are particularly susceptible—so cover up with clothing and physical sunblock (chemical-free), like zinc and titanium oxide of at least SPF 30.

3) Now, you asked me for a cream to fade the spots and that is the next step. Unfortunately, many include the bleaching agent “hyroquinone,” basically, because it does lighten. However, the Environmental Working Group has assigned a “hazardous” warning to this ingredient. It has shown mutagenic (potentially cancer-causing) activity in lab studies, has been found to contain traces of mercury, and has been banned in the European Union and in Japan. In rare cases it can lead to a skin disease called ochnronosis, and prolonged use can thicken collagen fibers and damage connecting tissues, making your situation worse.

Instead, try one of the many hydroquinone-free products out there, most of which use kojic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, vitamin C, arbutin, and niacinimide (a form of vitamin B) to lighten. Some clean and safe products I like are Miessence Probiotic Lightening fluid, Naturopathica Botanical Skin Brightener or Suki's Targeted Bio-Brightening Face Serum.

4)Supplementation can also help you with the discoloration from the inside out. GliSODin Skin Nutrients has extensive research behind their product. Check them out.

Make sure you give any product at least 2-3 months to work. Wear your sunblock diligently and exfoliate twice a week.

Let me know how you do!
Thanks Thanks for your question. Melasma can also be called hyperpigmentation, and basically, it means the skin gets darker in places. Usually, the darker skin doesn’t occur all over, like a nice tan, but in blotches and spots. Scientists aren’t sure why chemotherapy causes hyperpigmentation. (Aside from Tamoxifen, culprit drugs include Alkeran®, Myleran®, Cytoxan®, 5-FU, Adriamycin®, and more.) It may have something to do with inflammation, stimulation of skin-color cells, or toxicity. Radiation, of course, can cause it at the treatment sight. Like most side effects, it typically fades within 10-12 weeks of the last treatment, but sometimes, it becomes a long-term, unwelcome guest. I would suggest the following steps for you:

1) First of all (especially now that you are no longer undergoing treatment) add serious exfoliation to your daily routine. You need to loosen up the dead cells on the top layer of skin so that new, younger cells can come forward. Try natural facial scrubs or enzyme peels like Eminence Yam and Pumpkin Enzyme Pee or microdermabrasion at your local spa, or an organic at-home scrub.

2) Next, become obsessed with protecting yourself from the sun. UV rays trigger the production of melanin, the pigment that produces skin color—and darkened areas are particularly susceptible—so cover up with clothing and physical sunblock (chemical-free), like zinc and titanium oxide of at least SPF 30.

3) Now, you asked me for a cream to fade the spots and that is the next step. Unfortunately, many include the bleaching agent “hyroquinone,” basically, because it does lighten. However, the Environmental Working Group has assigned a “hazardous” warning to this ingredient. It has shown mutagenic (potentially cancer-causing) activity in lab studies, has been found to contain traces of mercury, and has been banned in the European Union and in Japan. In rare cases it can lead to a skin disease called ochnronosis, and prolonged use can thicken collagen fibers and damage connecting tissues, making your situation worse.

Instead, try one of the many hydroquinone-free products out there, most of which use kojic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, vitamin C, arbutin, and niacinimide (a form of vitamin B) to lighten. Some clean and safe products I like are Miessence Probiotic Lightening fluid, Naturopathica Botanical Skin Brightener or Suki's Targeted Bio-Brightening Face Serum.

4)Supplementation can also help you with the discoloration from the inside out. GliSODin Skin Nutrients has extensive research behind their product. Check them out.

Make sure you give any product at least 2-3 months to work. Wear your sunblock diligently and exfoliate twice a week.

Let me know how you do!
Thanks

Thanks for your question. There is a particular category of products that I suggest people stay away from because they usually contain potentially harmful chemicals including carcinogens. Watch out for these particularly toxic products in your personal care products and home:

a. Fragrance in skincare/colognes and perfumes: Known as “trade secret” so they don't have to reveal what they contain. They can have over 200 chemicals (76% of fragrances contain allergens and 16% contain carcinogens) Choose fragrance-free or natural sources like essential oils when you buy skincare and body care products and switch to essential oil based perfumes rather than synthetic ones.

b. Nail polish: Avoid those with toluene, DBP and formaldehyde. Many brands out there are free of these 3 chemicals like Zoya and Priti.

c. Dark hair dyes: These contain toxic ingredients that have been linked with cancer—look for safer brands and try to use them less frequently.

d. Skin lighteners with hydroquinone: Avoid hydroquinone, which has shown to be potentially cancer causing. Safe options include kojic acid.

e. Liquid hands soaps with triclosan: Triclosan can create carcinogenic by-products, and is accumulating in our soils. The FDA has asserted that was no evidence that antibacterial products protected people any better than regular soap. Choose options that are triclosan-free.

f. Air fresheners and paraffin candles: Studies have linked smoke from scented candles to asthma and eczema. Choose organic varieties made with essential oils and with natural waxes like vegetable, soybean or beeswax. The EPA warns against the use of air fresheners. Use essential oil diffusers instead.

Hope this helps!
Thanks
Thanks for your question. There is a particular category of products that I suggest people stay away from because they usually contain potentially harmful chemicals including carcinogens. Watch out for these particularly toxic products in your personal care products and home:

a. Fragrance in skincare/colognes and perfumes: Known as “trade secret” so they don't have to reveal what they contain. They can have over 200 chemicals (76% of fragrances contain allergens and 16% contain carcinogens) Choose fragrance-free or natural sources like essential oils when you buy skincare and body care products and switch to essential oil based perfumes rather than synthetic ones.

b. Nail polish: Avoid those with toluene, DBP and formaldehyde. Many brands out there are free of these 3 chemicals like Zoya and Priti.

c. Dark hair dyes: These contain toxic ingredients that have been linked with cancer—look for safer brands and try to use them less frequently.

d. Skin lighteners with hydroquinone: Avoid hydroquinone, which has shown to be potentially cancer causing. Safe options include kojic acid.

e. Liquid hands soaps with triclosan: Triclosan can create carcinogenic by-products, and is accumulating in our soils. The FDA has asserted that was no evidence that antibacterial products protected people any better than regular soap. Choose options that are triclosan-free.

f. Air fresheners and paraffin candles: Studies have linked smoke from scented candles to asthma and eczema. Choose organic varieties made with essential oils and with natural waxes like vegetable, soybean or beeswax. The EPA warns against the use of air fresheners. Use essential oil diffusers instead.

Hope this helps!
Thanks

Thanks for your question. Yes, there are many brands that are affordable as well as clean and safe. Weleda, Burts Bees, Pangea and Natural Being are a few brands that I like.

You can also pamper your skin with goodies from your own kitchen. Forget high-cost skin-care products that are full of chemicals anyway. Need extra moisture? Smash up a banana or an avocado, mix it with some yogurt, and wear it as a mask for 10-15 minutes. Find more homemade skincare recipes from my blog here http://cincovidas.com/try-these-natural-homemade-skin-care-wonders-from-your-kitchen/

Another way to save money and avoid chemicals in your home is to make your own non-toxic household cleaners. You’ll be amazed how much money you can save by making your own cleansers, and you’ll save your tender nasal passages and lungs from absorbing all those toxic chemicals typically present in over-the-counter cleansers. All you need is a little baking soda, washing soda, and vinegar. Check out my household cleaning recipes here http://cincovidas.com/make-your-own-non-toxic-household-cleaners/

And lastly, cutting back on the amount of products we use is a great idea. We don't need to use so many products. The average American uses 15 products a day - do we really need all those products? Can some of them be multitaskers?

Hope this is helpful and let me know how you do!
Thanks Thanks for your question. Yes, there are many brands that are affordable as well as clean and safe. Weleda, Burts Bees, Pangea and Natural Being are a few brands that I like.

You can also pamper your skin with goodies from your own kitchen. Forget high-cost skin-care products that are full of chemicals anyway. Need extra moisture? Smash up a banana or an avocado, mix it with some yogurt, and wear it as a mask for 10-15 minutes. Find more homemade skincare recipes from my blog here http://cincovidas.com/try-these-natural-homemade-skin-care-wonders-from-your-kitchen/

Another way to save money and avoid chemicals in your home is to make your own non-toxic household cleaners. You’ll be amazed how much money you can save by making your own cleansers, and you’ll save your tender nasal passages and lungs from absorbing all those toxic chemicals typically present in over-the-counter cleansers. All you need is a little baking soda, washing soda, and vinegar. Check out my household cleaning recipes here http://cincovidas.com/make-your-own-non-toxic-household-cleaners/

And lastly, cutting back on the amount of products we use is a great idea. We don't need to use so many products. The average American uses 15 products a day - do we really need all those products? Can some of them be multitaskers?

Hope this is helpful and let me know how you do!
Thanks