The Growing Trend Of Body Enhancement Among African Women

The Relationship Between Beauty And Health

Someone once said health is incomplete without beauty. This is due to the poise and self confidence which beauty endows on an individual, ultimately contributing to the general well being of that person. Beauty contributes to well-being by acting as a powerful tool for self-care, boosting mental health, and increasing self-confidence. According to experts, engaging in beauty rituals like grooming or skincare reduces stress (lowering cortisol) and releases "feel-good" hormones. A positive, personalized approach to appearance enhances emotional resilience and fosters self-love. 

It is at the backdrop of this reality that the craving for the right curves and perfect body shape has now assumed an unprecedented dimension amongst African women, especially those living in cities. Most of these body enhancements centre on Rhinoplasty  , Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL),  , Facelift and Eyelid Surgery, Tummy Tuck , Breast enlargement, Fat Reduction for body contouring among others.

The Rise In Body Enhancement Among African Women

Cravings for plastic surgery and body enhancement are increasing rapidly across Africa, particularly within urban, middle-class populations, driven by social media, celebrity culture, and shifting beauty standards. Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya are emerging as major hubs for these procedures, with a significant surge in demand for body contouring, such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) and liposuction. 

The market for cosmetic procedures in Africa is expanding significantly, with a growing number of people, predominantly women, opting for surgeries to align with global beauty ideals that often favor a "perfect" body shape. The desire for enhancement is most prevalent among urban individuals, particularly women between 26 and 33 years old, with many having at least a tertiary education.

Why African Women Are Craving For Body Enhancement

The growing trend of body enhancement, among African women, is driven by a combination of social, cultural, and psychological factors. Chief among these include the influence of Western media and social media, the pursuit of an "hourglass" figure, and a desire to boost confidence in response to body shaming. Western and local celebrities, particularly in the music and movie industries (e.g., Nollywood, BBNaija), often display exaggerated curves, setting new, often unattainable, beauty standards. While traditionally some African cultures valued larger bodies, there is a shifting preference toward a specific "hourglass" or "Coca-Cola" shape, which is often perceived as the peak of attractiveness, femininity, and even fertility.

Again, many African women experience intense pressure to conform to these new beauty standards, leading to the feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, and a desire to change their appearance to escape ridicule. Despite economic hardships in some regions, there is a high demand for both herbal and alternatives surgeries to increase buttock or breast size.

Some African women also seek enhancement as a way to regain confidence, especially after childbirth or to reverse perceived loss of body "firmness". Those who go for breasts enhancement largely fall in this category.

Body Enhancement Through Herbal Medication

Herbal medications and supplements have been known to assist with breast and buttock enlargement primarily by using plant-based compounds to mimic hormones or stimulate tissue growth. Many supplements contain herbs like Fenugreek, Fennel, Pueraria Mirifica, and Red Clover, which are rich in phytoestrogens. These compounds are believed to mimic estrogen in the body, which can cause fluid retention and potentially lead to temporary changes in breast tissue size and shape.

Herbs such as Saw Palmetto and Dong Quai are included to regulate hormones, creating an "estrogen-dominant" environment that experts say promotes fat deposition in the breasts and buttocks. Also, some products contain ingredients like Maca Root, which are known to promote muscle-building and, when paired with exercise, improve body curves.

The Advantages Of Using Herbal Medication For Body Enhancement

The main advantages of using herbal medication for body enhancement, such as breast and butt enlargement, focus on offering a non-invasive, more accessible, and potentially more natural alternative to surgical procedures. Proponents of these remedies, which often contain phytoestrogens and other plant-based ingredients, argue they can stimulate tissue growth and improve contours. 

Herbal methods provide an alternative to risky, invasive, and painful surgeries like breast implants or Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL). Herbal intervention for body enhancement is also relatively more affordable. Compared to the high costs associated with cosmetic surgery, herbal pills, creams, and oils are generally more affordable. These products often contain herbs such as Fenugreek, Saw Palmetto, Wild Yam, and Pueraria Mirifica, which are also believed to contain phytoestrogens that mimic human estrogen and help increase tissue size.

Besides, herbal remedies, including creams and capsules, are easily accessible, allowing individuals to use them privately at home without the downtime associated with surgery. Herbal medication also has added benefits other than body enhancement. Some products are marketed as not only enhancing size but also reducing menstrual symptoms, helping with acne, and increasing energy levels.

Disadvantages Of Using Herbal Medication For Body Enhancement

Using herbal medications, pills, or creams for breast and buttock enlargement presents some health, safety, and efficacy disadvantages. In most countries, herbal products are often not properly regulated, leading to abuse and false claims to lure the unsuspecting consumer. Again, there are no adequate clinical procedures, especially with new entries in the market, to ascertain their effectiveness.

The issue of self medication is more common with herbal products. Most people who apply these herbal medications do not do so under the advice and supervision of a health expert. They just order them online or get them over the counter and begin to apply without real expert guidance from a genuine herbal doctor.

Body Enhancement Through Alternative Plastic Surgery

Apart from Herbal medication, many people, especially those who have the financial means of doing so, are now looking in the direction of alternative plastic surgery to redefine their body shape. Surgery helps in attaining desirable body shapes by offering targeted, precise, and often permanent alterations to fat distribution, skin elasticity, and muscular structure that diet and exercise cannot achieve alone. Plastic surgery, specifically body contouring, is designed to reshape and balance the body’s frame rather than acting as a weight-loss tool. 

Liposuction removes stubborn fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise, such as love handles, saddlebags, or a double chin, allowing for improved contouring of the waist, thighs, and stomach.

Another area is that of fat redistribution. Fat is harvested from one area (e.g., abdomen) and injected into another (e.g., buttocks or breasts) to enhance curves, such as in a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

Procedures like tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) or body lifts also remove excess, sagging skin and tighten underlying abdominal muscles, which is especially useful after significant weight loss. 

Advantages Of Using Alternative Plastic Surgery For Body Enhancement

The main advantages of using surgery for body enhancement include significant and long-lasting physical changes, profound psychological benefits such as increased self-confidence, and, in some cases, improved physical health and function. Targeted Body Contouring Surgery can eliminate stubborn fat deposits in specific areas (e.g., abdomen, thighs, arms), helping to create a more proportioned and defined physique.

Alternative surgical intervention also helps in the motivation for a Healthier Lifestyle. The visual results of surgery often act as a powerful catalyst, motivating individuals to maintain healthy eating habits and regular fitness routines to preserve their new look.

Besides, plastic surgery offers Customizable Options. Modern plastic surgery offers a wide array of procedures and techniques that can be tailored to meet a person's unique aesthetic goals and physical health requirements.

Disadvantages Of Using Plastic Surgery For Body Enhancement

Using plastic surgery for body enhancement comes with some physical, psychological, and financial risks. While often considered safe when performed by qualified professionals, most cosmetic procedures are elective surgeries that can result in complications such as infection, permanent scarring and  nerve damage among others. 

Common risks include excessive bleeding, hematomas (painful pockets of blood), and seromas (fluid accumulation under the skin). There is also the risk of Infection. As with any incision, there is a risk of infection, ranging from mild skin issues to severe, life-threatening conditions like necrotizing fasciitis.

Nerve Damage may also occur. Procedures can cause temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the treated area.

Despite efforts to hide incisions, all surgeries result in scars, which may become hypertrophic (raised) or keloids in some patients. Procedures like abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) also carry risks of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), where blood clots form in the legs and can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

Procedural Specific Dangers may also arise in the course of cosmetic body enhancement. Surgeries such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) can lead to fat embolism syndrome if fat is injected into major blood vessels.

There have also been reports of implant Complications arising from such surgical interventions. Procedures involving implants (e.g., breast enhancement) carry risks of rupture, leakage, capsular contracture, or rejection by the body.

Conclusion

The decision of which to use between herbal medication or plastic surgery for body enhancement is a personal choice. It often involves balancing the desire for results against safety, efficacy, and risk tolerance. While herbal solutions are natural and safer, they often lack rigorous scientific evidence, whereas surgery offers dramatic, immediate results but carries higher, immediate risks. 

Except when administered by a genuine herbal practitioner, some herbal medications can cause severe adverse effects or toxic reactions if misused. There is also the issue of false claims by some manufacturers of herbal products with respect to body enhancement, which  are primarily based on traditional use rather than scientific evidence, often making them ineffective.

Actionable Advice: If considering herbs, consult a trained, licensed herbalist or naturopathic doctor, and always inform your GP.

Alternative plastic surgery, on the other hand, offers immediate and Visible Results. Surgery provides faster, more accurate, and more dramatic changes to body shape. However, it is an intervention that has higher Risks compared to herbal intervention. These risks include anesthesia complications, blood clots, infection, scarring, asymmetry, and, in rare cases, pulmonary embolism.

Surgical options also require significant downtime for healing, often lasting several weeks. In terms of cost, herbal intervention is far more affordable than surgery. Surgery involves higher upfront costs, including facility and surgeon fees.

Actionable Advice: Choose a board-certified, experienced surgeon. Ensure your expectations are realistic, as surgery is not a weight-loss solution, but a contouring tool. 

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NAFDAC Warns Against Use Of Poisonous Weight Loss Supplement From UAE

The management of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has warned the public Against purchasing and using a product made by Ingi Oman called Weight Rapid Loss Capsule.

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH) has also advised against using the Weight Rapid Loss Capsule due to its potential to cause cancer, according to a notification posted by the management on the Agency’s website on December 20, 2022, and titled Public Alert No. 049/2022 – Alert on the UAE health authority warning against consumption of weight loss pills.

According to the alert: "The product is being marketed as the most effective weight loss supplement and is being illegally sold through social media platforms like Instagram.

“Laboratory testing revealed that the pills contain phenolphthalein, a chemical that is illegal and that the US Food and Drug Administration has deemed hazardous. Additionally, it has microbial development that is beyond what is allowed.

Genes have been proven to be prone to harm by phenolphthalein because it can harm or change DNA. Additionally, studies have revealed its possible carcinogenic dangers.

Further, the management noted, “NAFDAC implores consumers to stop the purchase and use of the product. Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”

  

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Weight Loss: Coffee Can Help Burn Your Fat - Study

Long gone are the days when doctors strongly advised against drinking coffee, thinking it could strain the heart and stunt growth. This was based on outdated research that often failed to factor in other lifestyle factors, such as smoking, according to Time.

Even before this new study from the University of Nottingham, coffee was riding high in public opinion with studies showing three cups of coffee daily will lower the risk of heart disease, liver disease and stroke, as well as contribute to a longer life expectancy. Another recent study found that java aficionados do not even need to consume coffee to benefit from its stimulating effects, which can focus the mind and enhance concentration.

Despite the recent accolades, coffee has never been linked to activating brown fat cells. In fact, scientists have not yet discovered why it activates these cells, according to researchers. It was not easy to conclude that coffee caused the effect. Researchers first determined stem-cells exposed to the caffeinated beverage had higher temperatures, which indicated the activation of brown fat cells. Researchers then duplicated this effect in adults through temperature monitoring, which showed after a few swallows of coffee, the clavicle area, which contains the densest population of these cells, displayed increased activity.

Adding fat burning and potential weight loss capabilities to the laundry list of benefits associated with consuming coffee will likely be beneficial for the market. These findings can assure health-minded consumers their morning jolt of caffeine offers more advantages than just a boost. It could also expand the market to those who have yet to jump on the coffee train by repositioning the classic morning cup of joe as a functional beverage, a trendy category that is receiving increased investment.

Coffee is big business in the U.S. The country is the leading global consumer of coffee, with Americans drinking about 400 million cups per day.​ The high consumption of coffee translates to projected sales reaching nearly $80.9 billion in 2019, increasing at a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% through 2023, according to Statista. Seeing the growing popularity of coffee, CPG companies have not been waiting around.

Coca-Cola, J.M. Smucker and Nestlé have recently made big investments into the space. Last August, Coca-Cola announced the purchase of Costa Coffee from U.K. drinks and hotels group Whitbread. Smucker's Folgers brand introduced a high-end brand of 100% Arabica coffee, while Nestlé made a noteworthy investment in Blue Bottle, acquired Chameleon Cold-Brew, and bought the rights to sell Starbucks brand coffee in stores.

These premium coffee options offer a sense of luxury to consumers as they look for upscale options to sip at home. However, cold brew and other chilled coffees are posting the strongest growth. The segment skyrocketed 580% between 2011 and 2016, Mintel research noted.

If researchers can confirm the caffeine in coffee is activating the fat-burning brown cells, big companies investing in coffee — as well as the recent proliferation of caffeine-infused snacks and sparkling waters — could reap the benefits.  

  

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Is It Safe To Exercise During Pregnancy?

"Many active women are surprised at how pregnancy affects their workouts," says Renee M. Jeffreys, M.Sc., a prenatal-fitness consultant in Milford, Conn., and co-author of Fit to Deliver (Hartley & Marks). "But remember that these are normal, short-term changes." Of course, exercise during pregnancy depends largely on what your fitness level is, which trimester you're in, and how you're feeling, Jeffreys says. But this much is certain: The gym is a great place to be when pregnant. If one cardio machine or strength exercise isn't comfortable, there's always another one to try. 

Getting yourself to the gym may take an extra dose of motivation, but the payoff is huge. Consistent exercise during pregnancy can minimize aches and constipation, help you sleep better, and lower your risk of gestational diabetes and depression. You may even end up having a shorter, less complicated labor. Developing good workout habits during pregnancy will help you get your body back faster after delivery too.

What’s more, exercise keeps your endorphins (your body's natural "happy" chemicals) flowing, says prenatal trainer Erinn Mikeska, owner of Delivering Fitness, in Dallas. That's a crucial benefit, especially since we now know that there are more mood disturbances during pregnancy than postpartum, due to the massive influx of extra estrogen and progesterone (hormones linked closely to mood), says Melanie Poudevigne, PhD, health and fitness management program coordinator at Clayton State University, in Morrow, Georgia.

Will Exercise Harm My Baby?

Many newly pregnant exercisers worry about miscarriage, thanks to age-old myths that say a bout of strenuous exercise can harm the baby. But "there is no real evidence that exercise is linked to miscarriage," says Bruce K. Young, MD, coauthor of Miscarriage, Medicine & Miracles (Bantam) and professor of obstetrics and gynecology at New York University School of Medicine. However, early in pregnancy, elevating your core body temperature may be damaging to the fetus, so stay hydrated, don't exercise outdoors in the heat of the day, and avoid huffing and puffing so hard that you can't talk.

Heavy exercise isn't going to hurt your baby, but it will tire you more quickly than it did pre-pregnancy. Blood volume doubles during pregnancy, and a woman's heart needs to work harder to push all that blood around—including circulating it through the placenta, an extra organ. "That means the stress on your heart will be 50 percent greater for the same exercise that you were doing before pregnancy," Dr. Young says.

How Will I Feel?

Pregnant women often notice that they feel out of breath more quickly than they used to. You may assume this is a sign that you're out of shape. In fact, during pregnancy, you're breathing 20 to 25 percent more air because you need to get rid of the carbon dioxide levels in your own blood – and in your baby's. (Babies in utero aren't breathing on their own, but they're still producing carbon dioxide, which transfers to the mother's blood.) "So breathing more doesn't mean you're any less fit," explains Dennis Jensen, PhD, lead researcher on a Queen's University study of exercise and respiratory discomfort during pregnancy. It simply means that your body is adapting exactly as it should.

You may also feel less balanced when exercising while pregnant. "Looser joints and a changing center of gravity as the pregnancy progresses alters a woman's sense of balance, making her more susceptible to injuries such as sprained ankles and knees," says Shannon Clark, MD, associate professor in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston. For any high intensity workouts, find an instructor knowledgeable on how to alter workouts to accommodate pregnant women.

Pregnancy isn't the time to push yourself to the max, but it's also okay—and good for you—to get your heart rate up with cardiovascular exercise. Although a target heart rate of 140 is a number that's often cited, there's no precise number to shoot for.

Best Exercises During Pregnancy

If you have access to prenatal exercise classes, sign up. Not only are the workouts modified for pregnancy, but you also get to bond with your fellow moms-to-be over charming symptoms such as heartburn, swollen feet, and hemorrhoids. You might even get labor tips.

If your favorite classes don't come in the prenatal variety, it's fine to keep going, as long as you pay attention to how your body feels, limit your intensity, and stay within the normal range of motion. Just make sure the instructor knows you're pregnant and is knowledgeable about modifications you can make, Jeffreys advises. Also, if your instructor hasn't worked with pregnant women, find one who has.  

  

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Recommended Forms Of Exercise For Older People

Exercise is one of the keys to living a quality life as we age. There are no official fitness guidelines for older adults, but the basic exercises for seniors are the same at every age. If you need tricks and tips about exercise for older adults, we have listed some out below for you.

Aerobic Exercise:

From walking, dancing, biking to swimming, aerobic exercise stimulates the heart rate and breathing rate. Not only good for fitness, but it also helps for both physical and emotional health. Another good thing about aerobic exercise is that your body gets better at using oxygen and burning fat when you do regular aerobic exercise.

Resistance Exercise:

You can have your resistance exercise either from the comfort of your home or by hitting the gym. You should consider tubing if you are looking for a simple but effective resistance exercise at home. You can do a lot of different exercises with tubing as it is versatile. You can start with a set of four for about, they come in colors to denote the tension. If you order them, make sure to order the strap that allows you to attach the tube to a door, and if you want to work your legs, ask for leg straps.

Flexibility Exercise: 

Though it may not sound as exciting as a six-pack, flexibility is key to feeling mobile, agile, and strong in our bodies. Stretching—especially when paired with deep breathing, like in yoga—promotes both greater range of motion (your joints’ abilities to move to their fullest potential) and extensibility (how well your muscles and connective tissues allow those joints to move). Plus, yes, it also strengthens your muscles.

Balance exercise:

We recommend some or all of these exercises every day for the best results. It is advisable to also have someone nearby for support if you have concerns about falling over. You should also speak with your doctor before doing these exercises if you have a balance disturbance or are concerned about whether it is safe for you to do them.

Walk a straight line: Use a string lie on the floor like floor tiles and try to walk along with it. What you are trying to do is to land one foot in front of the other heel first. Try with arms extended out and then relaxed at your sides. As you get better with this, you can move on to walking forward to one end and then back to the other. Do this 10 times.

Stork: Stand on one leg, keep your arms at your side with your shoulders relaxed, and try to balance for 30 seconds. Repeat one to two times with each leg every day. You can increase the minutes as the weeks go by. Also, make it more challenging by trying to swing your arms like you’re running. That will throw you slightly off balance and you will need to make corrections to maintain your balance. This is good for your core and abdominal muscle groups that are involved in balancing. Another way to make it more challenging is to hold bottles of water in each hand.

Nose toucher: Stand with your right leg approximately 24 inches in front of your left, bend your knees slightly, and try to touch your nose with your finger. The more in line your feet are with each other the more challenging this will be. Once you can do it well with either leg in front of the other, try this exercise with your eyes closed.

Sit-stands: Sit on the edge of a sturdy chair and try to stand up without swinging your arms forward, and then sit back down very slowly. Repeat 10 times. If you need help, go ahead and let your arms reach forward for balance, but then over time, try to do them without the assistance of your arms.

Marching: For this, you will need a strong chair for balance. Lift your right knee up toward your chest, then lower to starting positions. The left knee can be bent slightly. Repeat 10-15 times with the right leg, and then do the left leg. As you master this, you can move to touch the chair with one finger for balance and then eventually without holding onto any support at all, and finally with your eyes closed. You can also try alternating the marching between the left and right leg instead of one set with one leg.

Side leg raises: Hold on to a sturdy chair for balance and lift your right leg out to the side. The left knee can be bent slightly. Repeat 10-15 times with the right leg then do the left leg. You can progress to touching the chair with one finger for balance, then eventually no holding at all, and finally with your eyes closed.

Heel raises: Hold on to a sturdy chair for balance and rise up on to your tippy toes. Repeat 10-15 times. You can progress to touching the chair with one finger for balance, then eventually no holding at all, and finally with your eyes closed.

Step-ups: Stand in front of a staircase and step up with your right foot, then up with your left, then back down with your right, then back down with your left. Repeat 10 times. If you need a little support, hold on gently to the railing, or better yet, just touch the wall with your fingertip.

  

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Skin-Lightening Creams Could Damage Health

Consumers have been cautioned  to steer clear of skin- lightening creams over the danger they pose to the populace using them.

According to the Local Government Association in the United Kingdom (UK), which issued the warning, skin lightening creams should be “avoided at all costs,” based on their bleaching agent hydroquinone and their mercury contents, both of which endanger health.

Hydroquinone, described by the LGA as “the biological equivalent of paint stripper”, could remove the top layer of skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer, and causing fatal liver and kidney damage. Mercury could also cause similar life-threatening health problems, the bbc reported.

Unless they were issued on prescription by a doctor, creams containing hydroquinone, steroids or mercury are banned in the UK – because of their potentially serious side-effects.

However, the British Skin Foundation has advised people who have any concerns about their skin to speak to a doctor.

Chairman of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, Simon Blackburn said: “Skin creams containing banned ingredients are very dangerous and could seriously damage your health, scar you for life and even kill you, so they should be avoided at all costs.

“Consumers should always check the ingredients of their skin creams, be suspicious of very low prices, which are likely to indicate the lotion is fake and potentially harmful, and never use a product containing hydroquinone.”

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The Best Skin Treatments For Dark Complexions

Article From Penelope Andersan

Skin treatments are not one size fits all. We spoke to Dr. Jason Emer about successful treatments for people with darker complexions and why our skin tone affects the outcome of certain procedures.

Skin procedures are more than just surface level. Results depend on a variety of factors that extend far beyond skin type and one of those factors we don't often think about is our skin's color. During my first laser hair removal consultation, I was told I’d require additional treatments over a longer period of time due to my darker complexion. I was new to the world of cosmetic procedures and this was the first time I'd heard that my skin color could affect the outcome of my treatment. It turns out that our complexions play a significant role in the outcome of certain procedures, especially lasers.

The issue with lasers and some other technologies in treating different skin colors, and the reason behind adverse outcomes on darker complexions, is the amount of energy absorbed by the skin – darker skin types absorb more energy and are thus prone to developing hyper pigmentation, irregular pigmentation, and hypo pigmentation, whereas lighter skin types don’t absorb energy and respond directly to the treatment.

For a long time the only options were a range of diode and alexandrite lasers, which still carry a risk of pigmentation changes. It’s only within the last ten years that traceless cosmetic treatments have become available for darker complexions. We now have the choice of lasers and micro-needling radio frequency devices that can be used on darker skin types, with little to no side effects.

But even with the increasing amount of available treatments, people with darker complexions still need to search out doctors who know how to accurately treat darker skin tones. Board-certified dermatologist Jason Emer MD, acknowledges some doctors don’t know how to successfully treat darker skin and aren't informed of the side effects certain cosmetic procedures have on dark skin types.

“There are a lot of doctors claiming that Erbium lasers, or what are called ‘cool lasers’, and even CO2 lasers, are safe for darker skin types," he says. "These lasers are ablative and burn the skin - they’re very high risk. All ablative lasers, anything that’s delivering a lot of inflammation in to the skin, should be avoided.”

Some doctors also use IPL hair removal, which should be avoided when treating darker skin types, since it has a chance of developing both hypo and hyper pigmentation. Another laser that is damaging, and used regularly, is Fraxel. If used incorrectly, Fraxel can be extremely dangerous and cause rebound hyper pigmentation, burns and damage the overall skin texture.

When it comes to skin rejuvenation, Dr. Emer suggests people with dark skin avoid energy-based treatments and focus on peels, skincare and at-home dermal rolling. Here are some of his favorites.

Enlighten Face Peel

A signature treatment of Dr. Emer's, Enlighten is a face peel designed to treat darker skin types for pigmentation, dark spots, and pores. It contains retinol, hydroquinone, Kojic acid, Vitamin C, and liquorice root for anti-aging, skin brightening and lightening. The peel can be done every month or two to brighten the skin tone without risk of damaging skin pigment, unlike other chemical peels.

Micro Needling Radio Frequency

For advanced rejuvenation treatments, there are micro needling radio frequency treatments available that work from beneath the surface and act as an alternative to energy-based treatments. Most of these devices use plated needles to penetrate the skin and deliver energy under the surface. These micro needling radio frequency treatments can be used for addressing pigmentation, acne scars and, treating fine wrinkles in darker skin types. Stronger technologies can also help tighten the skin.

Clear and Brilliant®

Clear and Brilliant® is used to treat melasma, hyperpigmentation, burns, or to rectify the results of an improper procedure. The procedure uses a very low energy laser treatment that is safe for darker skin types when used over the course of several sittings. Clear and Brilliant is Dr. Emer’s go-to treatment for Melasma and acne, and for those who have sensitive skin or don’t want a lot of downtime.

Salt Facial

A salt facial uses sea salt to apply pressure to the skin to decrease acne, promote exfoliation and smooth pores and fine lines. It’s a non-energy/non-heat based resurfacing treatment safe for darker skin types. This three-step treatment exfoliates the outer layers of skin, deposits customised serums into the skin, and uses LED therapy to decrease inflammation. It’s an all-in-one treatment that can be done every month to maintain youthful, rejuvenated skin.

YAG Laser

While laser hair removal seems straightforward, a darker complexion can confuse the laser into treating the skin, rather than the hair because it targets dark pigment. The YAG laser treatment is a good alternative to traditional hair removal lasers, as flashes so quickly that the upper surface of the skin does not get affected and the laser only works on the hair follicles. The YAG laser is the ideal hair removal option for dark complexions, such as African or South Asian skin tones.

Regardless of the procedure, to achieve the best results you’ll need to combine your treatment with Vitamin C and glycolic creams to reduce inflammation in the skin and promote exfoliation, further reducing any risk of pigmentation.

While there was a time where cosmetic procedures weren’t designed for darker skin types, we’ve thankfully reached a point where cosmetic treatments are accessible to all. So if you’ve ever doubted whether your darker complexion was the right type for a certain procedure, you can feel rest assured that it is now your skin’s time to shine. Just make sure to always consult with your practitioner first.

Penelope Andersan is from the Content Partnerships Team of The AEDITION, an online publication created by new, aesthetic enhancement platform AEDIT. AEDIT is a next-generation, go-to source for anyone looking to continue or begin their medial aesthetic journey.

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4 Key Reasons To Use Hemp Oil On Your Skin

Article By Justine Lopez

Hemp oil is an incredibly beneficial skin-care ingredient that packs powerful, long-lasting hydration. It’s amazing for all skin types. Here are 4 key reasons why you should start using hemp oil for skin care today.

1. Hemp is an incredible moisturizer

If you experience problems of dry and dehydrated skin, hemp oil may be all that you have been missing to nourish your skin and keep it looking rejuvenated. Hemp oil contains fats or lipids that are similar to those occurring naturally in our skin. This makes hemp an effective moisturizer and protector of the skin. It increases the skin elasticity hence bringing to life dehydrated and tired-looking skin.

2. Hemp oil benefits for skin are nothing to shrug at

Taking hemp oil as a nutritional supplement helps to promote overall wellness. There are compounds found in hemp oil (known as phytocannabinoids) that interact with our endocannabinoid system for benefits like calming stress and inflammation. By helping you to feel good, hemp oil is a powerful tool for inner and outer beauty.

Hemp oil is a perfect skin care product ingredient for everyone. It moisturizes the skin and brings more oxygen to it, great for dehydrated, itchy skin. Hemp oil is especially ideal for sensitive skin because it is a natural product with no known negative side-effects.

Hemp oil absorbs quickly into the skin, doesn’t block skin pores, and actually helps the skin to balance oil production.

3. Hemp has vitamins and minerals vital for healthy skin

Hemp oil contains a wide array of supplements necessary for healthy living such as Vitamins A and E, as well as minerals like magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, iron, zinc and calcium. Although these essential body minerals are in trace amounts, ingesting hemp oil is great for overall wellness. Hemp oil also has plenty of antioxidants. Because of this property, many users of the oil believe that it helps slow skin aging.

4. Hemp oil lotions and cosmetics are going mainstream

Hemp oil is a common ingredient in shampoos, lotions, sunscreens, and other products for skin care. Why? Because hemp’s moisturizing properties are incredible. Plus it adds vitamin D to the skin; necessary for keeping it smooth and soft throughout.

All in all, whether applied directly to the skin or consumed as a supplement, hemp oil offers your skin plenty of nourishment, keeping it looking healthy, fresh and attractive.

This article was originally published at madebyhemp.com

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8 Ways To Get A Younger Looking Neck

Article From Penelope Andersan

The skin on our necks is thinner than the skin on our faces and it’s exposed to the same wear and tear. So what are you doing about your neck?

You have your anti-aging skincare routine down to a science, you never leave the house without wearing vitamin c serum and sunscreen, and at night you refuse to let your face touch the pillow without applying under-eye treatment and moisturizer. But what are you doing about your neck?

Americans spend so much effort preventing signs of aging like creasing and wrinkling in the space between their chins and foreheads. In reality, the neck often starts to look older long before crow’s feet enter the picture. The skin on our necks is thinner than the skin on our faces and it’s exposed to the same wear and tear. Unfortunately, it also tends to get a lot less TLC, if any at all.

“Over time, skin loses collagen and elastin,” says New York City plastic surgeon Benjamin Paul, MD. Dr. Paul explains smoking and sun damage can also further accelerate aging of the skin on the neck. Those aren't the only causes of neck aging. As we get older, laxity in the neck occurs due to a loss of support from connective tissue and muscle. This leads to what we commonly call a “waddle” or “turkey neck" and looks like loose skin under our chin.

The appearance of sagging skin on the neck can affect everyone. Repeated pulling of the platysma muscle, which is the muscle men often flex while shaving, tugs on the overlying skin and causes it to wrinkle over time. According to Dr. Paul, thyroid or neck surgery also loosens the neck and can contribute to an older appearance.

While there’s not much we can do about getting older, it is possible to slow down the physical signs of aging. Here are some ways you can prevent future sagging skin and promote a younger-looking neck.

Protect Your Skin From the Sun

It’s common knowledge that sun exposure causes major damage to your skin. This includes the delicate skin on your neck, which is one of the first places the signs of aging can take hold. According to Dr. Paul, the single best thing you can do to preserve a youthful neck and prevent sagging skin, age spots, and fine lines is to wear sunscreen.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of at least 30 because it blocks 97 percent of the sun’s damaging UVB rays. Apply sunscreen to your face and neck every morning before putting on your makeup, whether you’re spending the day indoors or outside. Remember to reapply every few hours to make sure your skin is always protected.

Add a Retinoid To Your Skincare Routine

If you’re an anti-aging veteran, your medicine cabinet is likely stocked with skincare products that promise to reduce wrinkles and give you a smooth, tight complexion. There is a huge variety of creams, for instance, that help moisturize the neck. Do they actually work? “In my experience,” says Dr. Paul, “the benefit of neck creams is quite limited.” Unless it contains a retinoid.

Retinoids, a class of ingredients that includes retinol, retinyl palmitate, and retinoic acid, can repair sun damage by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing the skin texture, and evening the skin tone. They do it by boosting collagen production and stimulating cell turnover deep within the skin.

“Retinoids are potent, but they may be irritating,” says Dr. Paul. To minimize irritation, apply a retinoid to clean skin at night and wait a few minutes before layering on moisturizer. Because the skin on the neck is thinner than it is on the face, start with a small amount of retinoid and build up slowly. If you've never used one, a dermatologist can guide you in selecting the right product.

Shrink Your Double Chin

If you’re worried about a double chin, a non-invasive treatment called Kybella® could help restore the youthful neck you desire. Kybella® is a non-surgical treatment that involves a series of deoxycholic acid injections which target and destroy fat cells in the chin. There are no incisions with Kybella® and most patients experience minimal downtime.

While the acid in Kybella® does destroy fat cells, which are metabolized and eliminated by the body naturally, it won’t help with turkey neck. “Kybella® does not change the skin of the neck or laxity that may be present in the platysma,” Dr. Paul explains. To remove sagging skin after Kybella® treatment, a skin-tightening or surgical procedure may be necessary.

Reduce Wrinkles Caused By Aging and Sun Damage

We know Botox® works to reduce lines and wrinkles on the face. Similarly, Botox® can be injected into the submental area and jawline to give a “lift” to an aging neck. “Botox® may reduce vertical cording or banding on the neck that is caused by platysma muscle contraction,” says Dr. Paul. The treatment promotes a more youthful neck by relaxing the muscles that pull on the overlying skin and create wrinkles. The results of Botox® last between four and six months, and the treatment can be performed in as little as 15 minutes. It's best on vertical lines, though. Botox® will have little, if any, effect on horizontal lines which are formed on the neck through skin creasing.

Embrace Technology to Improve Sagging Skin

It can be challenging to treat sagging skin with topical products alone. At the same time, many patients are hesitant to go under the knife to correct loose neck skin. Luckily there are several professional skin tightening options that can give them the results they desire without surgery.

“Radiofrequency and ultrasound devices aim to tighten the neck with energy,” says Dr. Paul. The treatments have been shown to tighten loose neck skin by using energy to heat the skin and boosts the production of collagen and important proteins. However, Dr. Paul cautions that the effects of these devices is limited and patients may need multiple treatments to see results.

Go Under the Laser, Not the Knife

We know lasers can reduce unwanted hair and remove tattoos, but these incredible devices can also be used to rejuvenate the skin and promote a more youthful look. Laser resurfacing involves directing short, concentrated, pulsating beams of light at the face or neck to remove damaged skin layer by layer.

With laser resurfacing, “the goal is to improve lines, texture, and surface irregularities,” says Dr. Paul. There are two types of lasers commonly used in skin resurfacing: ablative CO2 lasers and non-ablative (fraxel) lasers. “There is more tightening with ablative lasers, though there is a higher risk of neck scarring,” Dr. Paul cautions. “Choose your laser doctor carefully.”

Try Intense Pulsed Light Therapy For Dark Spots

If you have dark spots on your neck, you’re looking at the results of sun damage. Luckily, you don’t have to live with age spots forever. Intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) is similar to a laser treatment in that it uses energy to treat wrinkles, dark spots, and sun damage. But it’s different because it releases many different wavelengths of light, so is more scattered and less targeted. During an IPL treatment, pigment in the skin absorbs the light, which is converted to heat. The heat then destroys the unwanted pigment to fade the appearance of red and brown spots. According to Dr. Paul, it may take between three and five IPL treatments to see results.

When Surgery is The Best Option

Non-invasive treatments can dramatically improve the appearance of a double chin and wrinkles, age spots, and fine lines on the neck. If you have loose or sagging skin, however, you might be best treated with surgery. Options for cosmetic neck surgery include liposuction of the neck to reduce fat or a neck lift to tighten the skin and muscle (platysmaplasty).

According to Dr. Paul, a neck lift in conjunction with a deep plane facelift is the gold standard in restoring a youthful neck and jawline. In this procedure, the deep tissues of the neck are dissected and supported to lift sagging skin on the neck and jowls. A deep plane face and neck lift is performed under general anesthesia in an operating room. The results are natural looking and can last up to 10 to 12 years.

Penelope Andersan is from the Content Partnerships Team of The AEDITION, an online publication created by new, aesthetic enhancement platform AEDIT. AEDIT is a next-generation, go-to source for anyone looking to continue or begin their medial aesthetic journey.

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Global Beauty Trends: The Perception Of Beauty Around The World

Article From Penelope Andersan 

They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What one person sees as attractive is often completely different from what someone else thinks. This is especially true when comparing the specific ideals of female beauty across different countries. The beauty standards set by the society we live in have tremendous influence on the styles and trends we are drawn to.

Here is an interesting example: In America, we see tan skin as beautiful. We strip down and have our bodies sprayed and contoured to get a golden glow. By comparison, a creamy complexion is considered beautiful in many parts of Asia. Japanese women often wear long sleeves and hats to the beach to keep their skin fair. When we are inundated with images of bronzed celebrities and ads for self-tanning products, it is easy to forget the same trend might not be as popular in other parts of the world.

In the past few years there have been some fascinating experiments done to see how the rest of the globe interprets beauty. In one, a journalist sent a photo of her face to freelancers in over 25 countries and asked them to make her look beautiful. A similar experiment had female graphic designers in 18 different countries Photoshop the image of a woman into the “ideal” body type according to the beauty standards where they live. In both experiments, all of the photos look vastly different from one another.

Comparisons like these fuel our fascination with global beauty trends. Why is plastic surgery so popular in South Korea? How do French women pull off an effortlessly gorgeous look? Here is a peek at how beauty is perceived and what cosmetic procedures are trending in six different parts of the world.

South Korea
The desire for a milky, smooth complexion is also popular in other parts of Asia, including South Korea. While pale skin was originally a signifier of wealth and prestige, the desire for white skin is now associated with youthfulness. The first signs of aging on Asian skin is pigmentation, not wrinkles, so men and women use beauty products with whitening agents to appear as light and ageless as possible.
These beauty products, known as K-beauty in the global market, are focused on health and hydration (we can thank South Korea for sheet face masks). It is about nourishing your skin so you look incredible with little to no makeup. Korean beauty consumers favor a dewy, glowing complexion with textured, yet natural eyebrows. Beauty trends lean towards soft, earth toned eyeshadow and natural lips with lightly tinted color.

In South Korea, having big, wide eyes is also considered beautiful. Every year, thousands of young people undergo double eyelid surgery to make their eyes appear larger. The procedure was the third most popular cosmetic surgery worldwide in 2016, when more than 1.3 million operations were reported.

When it comes to going under the knife, nowhere in Asia is plastic surgery more popular than South Korea. The research company Gallup Korea found that roughly one in three Korean women between the ages of 19 and 29 said they had cosmetic surgery. In addition to double eyelid surgery, jaw reduction is another popular procedure and is used to slim the chin and create the highly desired “V” face shape. In Korean culture, it is not uncommon for women to undergo rhinoplasty to make the nose bridge appear higher and more pronounced.

Despite the prevalence of plastic surgery in South Korea, the desired aesthetic is not to appear overly “done.” Rather, a woman undergoes a series of small and subtle operations to look different from everyone else – a more beautiful version of herself.

France
French ideals of beauty are imperfect, laid-back, and undone. In France, women believe the notion of beauty should be pleasing to oneself above all, and that the most beautiful women are the ones who look effortlessly gorgeous. Rather than using irritating skincare products, crash dieting, and plastic surgery to make themselves feel beautiful, women in Paris prioritize pleasure and love their bodies as they are.

When it comes to maintaining a flawless complexion, the French base their beauty routines on prevention, rather than quick fixes. Women take care of their skin from a young age using beauty routines and secrets passed down from their mothers and grandmothers. However, the French’s unfussy attitude towards beauty does not mean plastic surgery is off the table.

According to the most recent Global Aesthetic Survey released by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in France. Eyelid surgery is also common, listed as the number one facial cosmetic operation. Hyaluronic acid and Botulinum Toxin (BOTOX®) are the most common non-surgical procedures among French women.

Brazil
When we think about Brazilian beauty standards, the Brazilian Butt Lift and barely-there waxes are the first things that come to mind. This South American country is obsessed with beauty and being attractive is perceived as crucial to getting a job and finding a partner. In fact, beauty is such a central part of life in Brazil that plastic surgery is free or low-cost in public hospitals. This intense longing to be beautiful has made Brazil the second most popular country for plastic surgery with more than 2.5 million procedures performed in 2016.

The most popular plastic surgery in Brazil is liposuction, which is closely followed by breast augmentation. Abdominoplasty (also known as tummy tuck) and breast lift round out the top procedures in the country. The popularity of these body-sculpting surgeries is telling. Brazilians feel extreme pressure to have a perfect figure they can flaunt in a bikini. Women are even going as far as to have liposuction of the toes in pursuit of a flawless body.

When it comes to cosmetics, Brazilian women take a more natural approach. Brazil is a tropical country – it is hot and humid all year round – so a full face of makeup would instantly melt off. Brazilian beauty is based on a personal care routine that puts skincare front and center. Sunscreen is a must, as are beauty products with natural ingredients like coconut oil.

United States
It is somewhat hard to pinpoint the beauty standards in America since there is such a variety of cultures and races. And, what is considered beautiful has changed dramatically over the past few decades. In the ‘90s, the beauty standards were to be tall, thin, and fair-skinned. Beauty brands had complete control over what defined beauty. However, according to research by Mintel, the beauty industry is changing. Men and women are starting to embrace their imperfections and take control of how beauty is defined. Today, the confidence that comes from accepting and loving one’s body is considered beautiful.

While the body-positive movement is gaining momentum, there is still pressure to achieve the perfect figure. The Kardashians have set the bar high with tiny waists, voluptuous curves, and full lips – beauty trends that are unattainable for most women without cosmetic procedures. Perhaps that is part of the reason why the United States racked up the most plastic surgeries out of every country in the world. From New York to Los Angeles, a whopping 4.2 million operations were performed in 2016.

Breast augmentation is the most popular plastic surgery in the U.S., followed by liposuction. More than 1.1 million Americans received BOTOX® to decrease the appearance of wrinkles and prevent future signs of aging.

Spain
If you walk through the streets of Madrid or Barcelona, it is obvious that beauty is a central part of the culture in Spain. As in other European countries, the beauty standards are high – women considered attractive have a slim figure, light complexions, and are impeccably dressed. Hair care is important in Spain; attractive women have long, thick, silky brunette locks. Spanish women also take great care of their skin. They wear makeup every day, though it is very subtle and natural.

Plastic surgery is not as popular in Spain as it is elsewhere. Those who are opting to go under the knife are most likely getting breast augmentation and liposuction.

India
India has strict beauty standards girls are held to from a young age. There is a considerable amount of pressure from a woman’s family and neighbors to look a certain way. In India, beauty ideals include long, lustrous black hair, almond-shaped eyes, natural lips, dark eyebrows, thick eyelashes, and a straight, pointed nose.
Perhaps the most significant indicator of beauty in India is fair skin. The biggest Bollywood actors and actresses endorse beauty products that contain whitening agents that promise a lighter complexion. There are countless beauty brands to choose from, as well as DIY tutorials on social media that offer skin whitening tips and tricks. In India, the link between fair skin and beauty is undeniable.

India is an emerging market when it comes to plastic surgery. Rhinoplasty is the most popular facial procedure, while liposuction and abdominoplasty are the most requested body sculpting operations. A surprising number of men are also undergoing plastic surgery in India. There were thousands of hair transplants and gynecomastia surgeries (also known as male breast reduction) performed in 2016.

This article was sent in from AEDITION

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Speeding Up Fitness Recovery With CBD

Cannabidiol is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments. Better known as CBD, it is one of the 104 compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis or marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa. This article from Kimberly Torres gives vital information on the importance of CBD on work out and fitness.

Everyone’s talking about CBD (Cannabidiol). So, what gives? Well, quite a lot actually. Far from just being the health, well-being and fitness fad of the moment, this natural oil has plenty of proven benefits going for it. Like the fact that there’s scientific proof that it’s anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety, great for your immune system and can even reduce pain.

Now, to add to these benefits, a study has found that using CBD while working out can also help speed up recovery times. 

More CBD, less stiffness, less soreness

Catabolic hormones are responsible for breaking down muscle tissue. When you’re looking to increase muscle mass and improve muscle tone, driving down your levels of catabolic hormones (including cortisol) is essential.

Excessive cortisol impairs protein synthesis and proactively works against tissue growth. When cortisol levels are too high, even the hardest hitting of workouts could bring about little in the way of muscle improvement. Yet on the flip side, cortisol is pivotal to protecting the liver and removing toxins (which is why cortisol is still needed by the body, despite its negative effects).

CBD oil can play a central role in helping your body hold onto to a natural cortisol balance.

“It actually mentions very specifically that the non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD are more preferable to use because you can give larger doses without any of the intoxicating or negative side effects”.

• Stuart Titus, president and CEO of Medical Marijuana, Inc.

A solid night’s sleep before hitting the gym
Your body recovers best (and fastest) while asleep, which CBD oil can help with too. Looking at the biology of it – CBD oil engages CB2 receptors in the limbic and paralimbic regions of the brain. These serve as the ‘control centers’ of the endocannabinoid system (the system that’s responsible for regulating sleep and mood).

CBD has been found to aid regular REM sleep (the deep, dreamy kind of sleep), which is exactly when optimum recovery time takes place. 

Up your stamina, with a rush of anandamide

Ever heard of runner’s high? If you’ve not been lucky enough to experience this euphoric feeling while working out, allow us to fill you in. Some think that it’s nothing more than a myth. But actually, there’s plenty of research out there that proves the existence of this phenomenon.

Runner’s high can be experienced after any long, hard workout that gets the adrenaline pumping. For decades, it was thought that the release of endorphins was responsible for the effect, but more recently a study has shown that it is the endocannabinoid system that lies behind runner’s high or, more specifically, a flood of anandamide, which is an endocannabinoid compound. And guess what naturally regulates this compound? Yeah, that would be CBD oil. 

Up your stamina x 2 – with regulated blood sugar levels

Last (but by no means least), we need to talk about blood sugar levels. Get these wrong with an imbalanced diet, and you’re going to be grappling with energy dips as you attempt to put in a reasonable gym performance.

Now here’s something interesting – while a carefully considered diet is absolutely essential to your blood sugar levels, chronic inflammation (which many athletes struggle with) can be a cause of insulin resistance (the hormone that regulates blood sugar).

Three years ago, research into this area found something staggering – that CBD could potentially be used to treat diabetes. This study reported findings that the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol not only aided chronic inflammation, but also improved the body’s metabolism. This ranks among one of the most impressive benefits of CBD yet. And research into this natural resource are really only in their infancy.

So, CBD. It’s believed to aid stamina, regulate cortisol and blood sugars, and support you as you work your way to runner’s high. 

As an athlete, CBD oil is almost essential to pack into your gym bag as your sweatpants and sneakers.

Kimberly Torres is from the Content Team of Sunday Scaries, an organization that provides information on relieving anxiety and stress from professional, moral and financial hangovers, through various strategies including the use of CBD.

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