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<channel>
	<title>TheBeauMonde</title>
	<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net</link>
	<description>The Health &#38; Beauty Blog</description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 08:43:03 +0000</pubDate>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=2.3.1</generator>
	<language>en</language>
			<item>
		<title>Effects of Smoking on skin</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/effects-of-smoking-on-skin/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/effects-of-smoking-on-skin/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 08:43:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Effects of Smoking on skin]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/effects-of-smoking-on-skin/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Smoking affects all the parts and organs of our body&#8230;
Yes it can harm it in several ways. Here are more reasons to quit smoking now.
Skin is fed from within. The foods we eat are broken down into nutrients and waste. The nutrients are absorbed by the bloodstream, which transports them around the body to the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><font color="#800080">Smoking affects all the parts and organs of our body&#8230;</p>
<p>Yes it can harm it in several ways. Here are more reasons to quit smoking now.</p>
<p><dir><dir><font color="#008080">Skin is fed from within. The foods we eat are broken down into nutrients and waste. The nutrients are absorbed by the bloodstream, which transports them around the body to the various organs, the largest of which is the skin. Oxygen is also transported and delivered in the same way. The cells absorb the oxygen and this is vital for the health of the organs and the life process itself. This whole process takes place automatically when we breathe. . .</p>
<p>Except when we are breathing in smoke!</p>
<p>When we inhale the smoke from a cigarette the carbon monoxide from the smoke is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood. Carbon monoxide is a colorless odorless highly toxic gas also found in the smoke from car exhausts. The blood can absorb carbon monoxide 200 times as fast as oxygen so a lot of the oxygen is displaced by carbon monoxide. The organs including the skin are starved of life giving oxygen and slowly poisoned by the carbon monoxide.</p>
<p>But that&#8217;s not the end of it. Cigarette smoke also contains the following deadly cocktail of chemicals: Ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, butane, nicotine, carbolic acid, collidine, formic aldehyde, lutidine, parvoline, prussic acid, pyridine, arsenic and cadmium. This list is by no means complete.</p>
<p>The effect on the skin of all these is catastrophic. The liver goes into overdrive trying to expel these chemicals from the body and cannot perform its normal functions properly. The skin loses its healthy glow and takes on a yellowish-gray cast. The more cigarettes smoked, the worse your skin will look.</p>
<p>Smoking also causes premature aging in two ways. It uses up vitamin C in the body, about 35mg for each cigarette. Vitamin C is an unstable vitamin and cannot be manufactured by the body. One of its functions is the preservation of the collagen in the skin, the substance that gives skin its plump and youthful appearance. The collagen breaks down causing premature wrinkles around the eyes and mouth.</p>
<p>The physical act of smoking causes us to squint, exaggerating the wrinkles around the eyes. Every time we purse our lips we deepen the wrinkles around our mouth as well.</p>
<p>Do yourself a favor! Stop poisoning yourself. Quit smoking now. Save the money you spend on these toxic weeds and go out and treat yourself to a facial or a new skin cream instead.</p>
<p>In a nutshell, the skin is affected by tobacco smoke in the following ways:</p>
<ul>
<li>Firstly, tobacco smoke released into the environment has a drying effect on the skin&#8217;s surface.</li>
<li>Secondly, because smoking restricts blood vessels, it reduces the amount of blood flowing to the skin, thus depleting the skin of oxygen and essential nutrients.</li>
<li>Smoking reduces the body&#8217;s store of Vitamin A, which provides protection against some skin-damaging agents produced by smoking.</li>
<li>The creasing of the mouth when drawing on a cigarette can cause wrinkling around the eyes and mouth.</li>
<li>The more a person smokes, the greater the risk of premature wrinkling.</li>
<li>Smokers in their 40s often have as many facial wrinkles as non-smokers in their 60s.</li>
<li>Smokers&#8217; may also develop hollow cheeks through repeated sucking on cigarettes. This is particularly evident in under-weight smokers and can cause smokers to look gaunt.</li>
<li>Prolonged smoking causes discoloration of the fingers and fingernails on the hand used to hold cigarettes.</li>
<li>Smoking also results in a yellowing of the teeth and is a cause of halitosis or bad breath.</li>
</ul>
<p></font></dir></dir></font></strong></p>
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		<item>
		<title>how to treat puffy eyes</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/how-to-treat-puffy-eyes/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/how-to-treat-puffy-eyes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 12 Apr 2008 09:08:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Puffy Eyes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/how-to-treat-puffy-eyes/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Usually the eyes are puffiest when you awake. Under-eye puffiness is usually only a temporary cosmetic concern and rarely a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. Lack of sleep is unlikely a significant factor for puffy eyes. If anything, sitting up instead of lying down will help to prevent fluids from collecting in the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Usually the eyes are puffiest when you awake. Under-eye puffiness is usually only a temporary cosmetic concern and rarely a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. Lack of sleep is unlikely a significant factor for puffy eyes. If anything, sitting up instead of lying down will help to prevent fluids from collecting in the eyelid tissue. This section provides effective tips for reducing mild under-eye</p>
<h2><strong>What Causes Puffy Eyes? </strong></h2>
<p>Factors that causes puffness under eyes are as -</p>
<ul>
<li>Late nights</li>
<li>allergies</li>
<li>Hangovers can also produce puffy eyes.</li>
<li>high salt intake</li>
<li>If itching or redness accompanies the puffiness, it may be due to an allergy or dermatitis.</li>
<li>general stress</li>
</ul>
<h2>How to get rid of Puffy Eyes by Home Remedies</h2>
<p><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/home-remedies-for-puffy-eyes-1.jpg" alt="home-remedies-for-puffy-eyes-1.jpg" /></p>
<ul>
<li>Cut two slices off a cold cucumber, each approximately 1 /2 inch thick. Place a slice on each eyelid for 5 minutes.</li>
<li>Bathing eyes - Mix 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt in a pint of water -soothes eyes</li>
<li>Splash your face for up to 5 minutes with water including your eyes.</li>
<li>Mix one teaspoon of salt in a pint of hot water; apply pads soaked in the saline solution on the puffy areas.</li>
<li>Take Raw cucumber slices,potato slices and apple slices and place them on closed eyes and lie down for five minutes</li>
<li>The hemorrhoid ointment acts as a vasoconstrictor, relieving the swelling instantly</li>
<li>Dip two metal spoons into cold water. Freeze them for a few minutes, and apply them to your eyes; the spoon shape will fit perfectly into the area around your eyes, and the swelling will go down.</li>
</ul>
<p><!-- InstanceEndEditable --></p>
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		<item>
		<title>dark underarms</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/dark-underarms/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/dark-underarms/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 12 Apr 2008 09:04:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/dark-underarms/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[1. Always keep the place well moisture, this will surely help to reduce the darkness. 
&#160;
2. Mix Lemon juice with turmeric, apply and was off after 20mts. Better if done before bath. Regular practice will give better results.
&#160;
3. Avoid hair removing creams and shaving to remove unwanted hair from under arms. Go for a good hot [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">1. Always keep the place well moisture, this will surely help to reduce the darkness. </p>
<p style="min-height: 14px; margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">2. Mix Lemon juice with turmeric, apply and was off after 20mts. Better if done before bath. Regular practice will give better results.</p>
<p style="min-height: 14px; margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">3. Avoid hair removing creams and shaving to remove unwanted hair from under arms. Go for a good hot wax from a expert. It will be painful for the first time but waxing will also removes the dead cells from skin. </p>
<p style="min-height: 14px; margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">4. Apply lemon mixed with rose water in 1:1 ratio and leave over night.</p>
<p style="min-height: 14px; margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font: 12px Helvetica">5. Try avoiding deodorants as the chemicals in it may cause darkness, talcum powder can be used as an alternate. </p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Tips to cure sun tan and sun burn</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/tips-to-cure-sun-tan-and-sun-burn/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/tips-to-cure-sun-tan-and-sun-burn/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 12 Apr 2008 08:50:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Sun Tan\Sun Burns]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/tips-to-cure-sun-tan-and-sun-burn/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Take 4 tsp of sandalwood powder, five tbsp. of coconut and two tsp of almond oil. Mix together and apply on the exposed areas.
Natural way to help remove tan in arms
Massage with sandalwood based cream and apply a paste of multani matti (fullers earth) and sandalwood powder mixed together.
Avoid lotions that contain topical anesthetic medications [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><dir><dir>Take 4 tsp of sandalwood powder, five tbsp. of coconut and two tsp of almond oil. Mix together and apply on the exposed areas.<br />
Natural way to help remove tan in arms<br />
Massage with sandalwood based cream and apply a paste of multani matti (fullers earth) and sandalwood powder mixed together.</p>
<p>Avoid lotions that contain topical anesthetic medications because you can become sensitized and then allergic to that medicine.</p>
<p>Make a paste of Barley, turmeric and yogurt in equal proportions. Apply it over the area of sunburns for sunburn relief.</p>
<p>Sunscreen should be generously applied. If out in the sun for a prolonged period of time during the day, wearing a hat and other protective clothing is recommended. Light clothing reflects the sun most effectively.</p>
<p>Apply cold aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar, or plantain to help heal sunburn.</p>
<p>Dip some gauze into milk and apply it to your sunburned skin. The tannic acid in the tea draws the burn out of the skin and heals it. After just one application, most sunburns are no longer painful and are much less red. However, this treatment will act on the pain but may not prevent peeling.</p>
<p></dir></dir><strong><u>In cases of over-exposure, tanning and sunburn, here are a few excellent remedies.</p>
<p><dir><dir>Coconut oil is very gentle for skin. Massage whole body with coconut oil before going out in sun. It hepls in sunburn prevention.</p>
<p>Milk is also a good food remedy for sun burns. To get relief apply on affected area using a cloth.</p>
<p>Appling ice to the burned area is beneficial.</p>
<p>Using cold tea bags will remove tanning from the sunburns.</p>
<p>Sliced small pieces of raw cucumber or potato and applying to affected area will reduce redness and inflammation caused by sunburn. Application of sandal wood paste also provide relief from the burning sensation.</p>
<p>Mix wheat flour, milk, olive oil, or barley flour, honey, and raw egg white paste to make a mixture. Use this mixture for treating sunburn and tanning from sun</p>
<p>Take 2 tomatoes puree, cucumber puree and Mix with lemon juice. Apply this paste all over the suntanned and sunburnt skin. Let it dry. Dab the puree again. Repeat 3 times and let it dry thoroughly, then rinse off. Use this treatment for a week and see the difference. It not only helps to soothe the tanned area, it adds a glow to the skin too.</p>
<p>Take 3 tablespoons of milk and add to it one tablespoon of turmeric powder. Apply all over the face or affected areas. Leave it to dry. Rub in circular motions and then rinse off. It not only helps to remove tan it also helps remove fine facial hair.</p>
<p></dir></dir></u></strong>Take a few vitimin pills (c, d and a) and grind up as many as needed into some cod liver oil (make into a past) put in about 1/4 of its mass in vasalien (with vitimin e and aloe). Aadd any typ of all natural lotion that had green tea in it and apply to burnt areas&#8230;.put on before you take a shower (it will smell rancidly of fish) unless you want to add some type of really REALLY strong perfume to it&#8230;.but i wouldnt risk it&#8230;leave on for as long as posible before showering wash ad thurowly as posible (to get fish smell off) and apply the green tea lotion to sunburnt areas (or every where&#8230;its great for your skin) and if you have any newer scares apply a very thin layor of cod liver oil to it with a q-tip (it will make the scare heal more efectivly making them a lot less noticible in the future) and if the sunburn is not too bad (to the point of blistering) then apply rubbing aaucihol to it&#8230;.it will cool it off&#8230;but what ever you do do not apply to any even close to open areas.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>blackening of Nails</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/blackening-of-nails/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/blackening-of-nails/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2008 09:52:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Blackening of Nails]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/blackening-of-nails/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A discolored toenail usually means that something is wrong, and unless you have another obvious explanation, you should consider the possibility that you have a fungal nail infection. Other possible explanations would include a recent blow to the tip of the toe, causing bleeding and blackening under the nail, bacterial growth beneath the nail (often [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="body">A discolored toenail usually means that something is wrong, and unless you have another obvious explanation, you should consider the possibility that you have a fungal nail infection. Other possible explanations would include a recent blow to the tip of the toe, causing bleeding and <strong style="color: black; background-color: #ffff66">blackening</strong> under the nail, bacterial growth beneath the nail (often a green color), continuous use of nail polish on the nail, or some other uncommon medical condition. The problem, however, is usually fungus.</p>
<p>Fungi are capable of producing many colors, and the species that invade <strong style="color: black; background-color: #a0ffff">nails</strong> and cause a discolored toenail are no exception. In laboratory culture, the so-called dermatophytes are predominantly yellow, mahogany brown, or reddish, while saprophytic fungi that invade <strong style="color: black; background-color: #a0ffff">nails</strong> are often green, black or brown, or colorless. Though these fungi may not exhibit exactly the same characteristics when growing on a nail, they do often produce a yellow, brown or even black color. It generally starts out as a slight yellowish tinge to the nail, or even a white spot, but color develops more fully as the fungus begins to spread and mature.</p>
<p>In an advanced fungal nail infection, a discolored toenail is a minor symptom compared to the thick flaky distorted appearance of the nail and the discomfort of fungal spread to the skin of the toes. Once a nail infection has gone this far, it will be difficult to treat, and even with proper treatment it will probably take a long time to clear up. If you notice a discolored toenail, it&#8217;s best to take care of it right away. See your doctor to confirm that treatment for fungus is a sensible approach, and begin treatment immediately.</p>
<p>A fungal nail infection is easier to treat in its early stages. In lieu of expensive prescription drugs, many people choose a natural topical remedy. Some of the best contain tea tree oil, an essential oil of the tea tree that has been shown to have antifungal properties. Other natural remedies include an oral herbal treatment to aid the topical preparation, and there are many folk remedies for the condition as well.</p>
<p>The biggest challenge for any topical preparation is penetration of the nail so that the treatment can contact, and kill, the fungus. A thin discolored toenail in the early stages of infection will be more easily penetrated than a thick distorted toenail with advanced fungal growth – so treat your fungal nail infection now, before it gets worse.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Lip Care</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/lip-care/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/lip-care/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2008 09:34:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Lip care]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/04/lip-care/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Tea and coffe paly a great role in darknening of lips
dry lips also get darker always keep them moist&#8230;
Tips to make your lips rosy:)
To make lips fresh and pink, apply juice of lemon skin on the lips to avoid blackness of lips and make it pink.
Try applying VAseline petroleum jelly. Also, applying ghee or oilve [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> Tea and coffe paly a great role in darknening of lips</p>
<p>dry lips also get darker always keep them moist&#8230;</p>
<p><strong>Tips to make your lips rosy:)</strong></p>
<p>To make lips fresh and pink, apply juice of lemon skin on the lips to avoid blackness of lips and make it pink.</p>
<p><font size="2" face="Arial">Try applying VAseline petroleum jelly. Also, applying ghee or oilve oil regularly will help. If you smoke you need to quit as smoking causes lips to go black.</font></p>
<p>To make your lips soft and rosy, massage with coriander leaf juice.</p>
<p>Cracked lips are supposed to be infected very easily. So, whenever you have cracked lips, kindly apply some over the counter antibiotics. This will prevent further infections.</p>
<p>Always wear a good quality Lipstick ,,</p>
<p> Instead of directly putting the tube of gloss to your lips, put lip gloss on fingertips first and then just pat it onto the flesh of lips, this way you’ll get a little bit of glow.</p>
<p>To get natural pink lips, apply beet root juice before bed and you will see the difference</p>
<p>One of the most important things to be remembered that you should not lick your cracked lips. Your saliva may give temporarily relief but when the saliva dries, it gets again cracked. In fact, sometimes it may worsen the case.</p>
<p>Rub a generous layer of Vaseline onto your lips and around them for a lasting lip shine; also prevents chapping and cold sores.</p>
<p>Here is teh recipe of Home made lip balm which u can use for dark lips</p>
<table border="0" width="100%" cellPadding="0" cellSpacing="0" class="box">
<tr>
<td class="tip_h"><strong>Home Made Lip Balm </strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td height="10"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Mix one-tablespoon cranberry sauce juice and two tablespoons Vaseline for a delicious home made lip balm.</strong></td>
</tr>
</table>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>treat black heads safely</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/treat-black-heads-safely/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/treat-black-heads-safely/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 23 Mar 2008 19:21:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[black heads]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/treat-black-heads-safely/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[every one wants to have a flawless and beautiful skin while the black heads leave destructive effect on a beautiful face
before satrt curing black heads we must know what the black heads actually are, what are the reason which cause black heads and what precauions should be taken to aviod them
Blackheads, also known as open [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>every one wants to have a flawless and beautiful skin while the black heads leave destructive effect on a beautiful face<br />
before satrt curing black heads we must know what the black heads actually are, what are the reason which cause black heads and what precauions should be taken to aviod them</p>
<p>Blackheads, also known as open comedones, are follicles that have a wider than normal opening. They are filled with plugs of sebum and sloughed-off cells and have undergone a chemical reaction resulting in the oxidation of melanin. This gives the material in the follicle the typical black color.<br />
Blackheads can be caused by overproduction of oil, which is why people with oily skin tend to have blackhead problems. The most common areas for blackhead formation are the forehead nose and chin (the T-Zone); this is due to the higher number of oil glands in these troublesome areas.<br />
Even people who do not have the misfortune of getting acne or pimples sometimes had to deal with black heads.Black heads do not discriminate based on age; you can get blackheads as an adolescent as well as an adult. Unfortunately, this can be a continual problem that few people know how to deal with.<br />
How to get rid of black heads is a question that gets asked a lot. Depending on your skin tone and your situation there can be a lot of different answers but generally there are a few tips you can follow regardless of your skin condition that will help you eliminate black heads.</p>
<p><em><strong>Treatment of Blackheads which is equally benifical for whiteheads cure</strong></em><br />
Treatment of whiteheads and blackheads takes time. Most treatments take several weeks to months before a noticeable change is seen.</p>
<p><a href="http://gsm.about.com/compact/showtext.asp?cpnum=1209&amp;monotype=full&amp;match=F&amp;gname=Benzoyl*Peroxide&amp;r=6078"><strong>Benzoyl Peroxide</strong></a><br />
Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect and may also decrease the chemical reaction that changes the lining of the hair follicle. This may help reduce the plugging that causes comedones. Benzoyl peroxide may be used for a mild case of comedones or to help prevent formation of others.</p>
<p><a href="http://dermatology.about.com/od/topicals/a/acnetopret.htm"><strong>Tretinoin </strong></a><br />
Tretinoin (Retin-A, Avita, Renova) is the mainstay of treatment for whiteheads and blackheads. Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A and works by increasing cell turnover and reducing the &#8220;stickiness&#8221; of the sloughed cells. It helps expel the plugged material returning the pore to normal. Tretinoin can be irritating, so specific instructions on how to use it should be followed</p>
<p><strong>Antibiotics</strong></p>
<p>Prescription <a href="http://dermatology.about.com/od/topicals/a/acnetopabx.htm">topical antibiotics </a>or <a href="http://dermatology.about.com/cs/antibiotics/a/acneabx.htm">oral antibiotics</a> might be used if some of the blackheads and whiteheads are infected, but antibiotics do not help with comedones that are not infected.</p>
<p><strong>Isotretinoin (Accutane)</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://dermatology.about.com/cs/isotretinoin/a/accutane.htm">Isotretinoin (Accutane)</a> is used for severe cystic acne and has many side effects. It is very effective for comedones when used properly, but is not usually prescribed for mild acne of either type.</p>
<p><strong>Extraction</strong></p>
<p>Extraction may be used by a health care provider on open comedones. This process is performed using a device called a comedone extractor. This is a small, metal, circular instrument that is centered on the comedone and pushes down the surrounding skin, causing the plug to extrude.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/399321980_61ab9a8fbc.thumbnail.jpg" alt="399321980_61ab9a8fbc.jpg" /></p>
<p><em><strong>Blackheads home remedy treatment is quite effective. Following are some Black head cure home remedies. Read on for home remedy for Blackheads:</strong></em><br />
<strong>*</strong></p>
<p>In 3-4 cup boiled water, add 2 tsp of soda bicarbonate. Steam a towel with this. Thereafter, place the towel gently on your face. Do it for about 5-6 times. Make a paste by mixing 1 tsp curd and 1 tsp rice flour. Apply the paste on the affected area. After some time, wash your face with cold water.</p>
<p><strong>*</strong> Take a pinch of soft portion of glycerin soap and mix with a pinch of table salt. Apply this mixture on the blackheads. Do it for about a week and see the magical results.</p>
<p><strong>*</strong> Take about 1 tsp of juice extracted from fresh coriander leaves and add ½ tsp of turmeric powder in it. Apply this mixture while going to bed. Wash your face the next morning with cold water.</p>
<p><strong>*</strong> Make a paste by mixing 1 tsp limejuice and 1 tsp of finely powdered cinnamon. Apply it on the affected area before going to bed. Wash it off in the morning</p>
<p>Getting rid of blackheads can sometimes seem impossible but if you follow these tips it should help&#8230;..Do not try and extract your black heads forcibly, either using your fingers, fingernails or a comedone (blackhead) remover. This can cause permanent damage to the pores and stop them working properly for ever. You may squeeze some of the blackhead out, but you could also force some of it even deeper into the skin, which may lead to infection (large spots, pimples or even cysts) or permanent damage. Touching your skin should generally be avoided to prevent cross infection.<br />
There are good treatment options available, so there is no need to suffer with this condition in silence. A primary care provider can initiate treatment for acne and follow mild to moderate cases. Severe cases or those resistant to treatment should be seen by a dermatologist.</p>
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		<title>What is psoriasis?</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/what-is-psoriasis/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/what-is-psoriasis/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:52:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[psoriasis]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a recurrent skin condition that affects around 2% of the population in the UK. In simple terms, it is only an acceleration of the usual replacement processes of the skin. Normally a skin cell matures in 21 to 28 days during its passage to the surface where a constant invisible shedding [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><font color="#660066" face="Verdana">What is psoriasis?</font></strong></p>
<p><font color="#660066" face="Verdana"><font size="1" color="#000000">Psoriasis is a recurrent skin condition that affects around 2% of the population in the UK. In simple terms, it is only an acceleration of the usual replacement processes of the skin. Normally a skin cell matures in 21 to 28 days during its passage to the surface where a constant invisible shedding of dead cells, as scales, takes place. Psoriatic cells, however, are believed to turn over in two to three days and in such profusion that even live cells reach the surface and accumulate with the dead cells in visible layers. Psoriasis affects both sexes equally. It may appear for the first time at any age, although it is more likely to appear between the ages of 11 and 45.</font></font></p>
<p><font color="#660066" face="Verdana"><font size="1" color="#000000"> </font><strong><font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#660066">What does it look like?</font></font></strong></font></p>
<p><strong><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">It appears as raised red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. It can occur on any part of the body although elbows, knees and the scalp are usual sites. There is often accompanying irritation. Some parts of the body do not have this typical scale. These are areas where two skin surfaces come together as in the natural skin creases and folds e.g. the groin and genital area and underneath women&#8217;s breasts. Psoriasis, in these areas can look bright red and shiny rather than scaly.</font></strong><strong> </strong></p>
<p><font size="1"></font><font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/images1.thumbnail.jpg" alt="images1.jpg" /></font></p>
<p><font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font size="1" color="#660066" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Is it catching?</font></strong></font><font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Most definitely not. Psoriasis cannot be caught from other people nor can it be transferred from one part of the body to another. How serious is it? Psoriasis is known as a waxing and waning condition and there may therefore be considerable variations in its intensity. There are also many clinical forms with skin involvement varying from a few psoriatic patches to, at its worst and very rarely, a widespread and serious eruption. Most people with psoriasis have small patches that either get better spontaneously or need very little treatment. The more severe forms may demand intensive medical and nursing care. Widespread ignorance about the nature of psoriasis and the real or imagined reactions of others may also lead to a withdrawal from society and to feelings of isolation, depression and defensive shyness.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="3" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#660066"><strong>What causes it?</strong></font></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Certain genes have been identified as being linked to psoriasis. It appears, however, that a genetic tendency needs to be triggered off by such things as injury, throat infection, certain drugs and physical and emotional stress. Research is under way into all aspects of the causes of psoriasis.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font size="3" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#660066">What treatments are available?</font></font></strong></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">There are a variety of topical treatments available i.e. creams and ointments that are applied to the skin. When used properly they can be most effective and have minimal side effects. Whatever treatment you use it is also vitally important to use a moisturiser to make the skin more comfortable. Other treatments are available for more serious cases; they will normally mean a referral to a Dermatologist and involve treatment as an out-patient or in-patient. Many people, however, lose the condition naturally for long periods at a time or even entirely. It is important that you, as a patient should feel in control of your treatment regime and it is helpful therefore to talk it over properly with your GP, Consultant or Specialist Nurse.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="3" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#660066"><strong>What is psoriatic arthritis?</strong></font></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/images2.thumbnail.jpg" alt="images2.jpg" /></p>
<p></font><font size="3" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#660066"><strong> </strong></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Approximately 10% of people with psoriasis develop a specific type of psoriatic arthritis. This is an affliction of the joints particularly at the tips of fingers and toes and occasionally in the lumbar joints causing a low backache. Like psoriasis this form of arthritis can naturally wax and wane. </font></p>
<p><strong><font color="#660066" face="Verdana">Children and psoriasis </font></strong></p>
<p><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/teen_girl.thumbnail.jpg" alt="teen_girl.jpg" /></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Psoriasis is a recurrent skin condition that affects around 2% of the population in the UK. In simple terms, it is only an acceleration of the usual replacement processes of the skin. Normally a skin cell matures in 21 to 28 days during its passage to the surface where a constant invisible shedding of dead cells, as scales, takes place. Psoriatic cells, however, are believed to turn over in two to three days and in such profusion that even live cells reach the surface and accumulate with the dead cells in visible layers. </font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">What does it look like?</font></strong></font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">It appears as raised red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. It can occur on any part of the body although elbows, knees and the scalp are usual sites. There is often accompanying irritation.</font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">Is it catching?</font></strong></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Most definitely not. Psoriasis cannot be caught from other people nor can it be transferred from one part of the body to another.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">How does psoriasis affect children?</font></strong></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Psoriasis is much less common in childhood than other skin problems such as eczema although around 10% of adults with psoriasis seem to have developed it before the age of 10. Guttate and scalp psoriasis are more common in childhood although many children will also have the usual distribution of plaques over the knees, elbow and lower back.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#660066" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>What is guttate psoriasis?</strong></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" color="#660066" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong> <img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/images3.thumbnail.jpg" alt="images3.jpg" /></strong></font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The onset of psoriasis in children is often an outbreak of what is called guttate psoriasis. Gutta is the latin word for drop and this describes the small scaly patches affecting the trunk, limbs and occasionally the scalp. There may be a few rather larger patches or they may develop in time. This type of rash often follows an infection, often one caused by streptococci in the throat. Usually the rash clears well, although it can take several weeks or months, but in some children it can linger indefinitely. If a child has a tendency to tonsillitis the rash may come back with each attack.</font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">Do babies get psoriasis?</font></strong></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">It is exceedingly rare for babies to have psoriasis particularly if there is no history in the family. Rashes in the nappy area may be psoriasis or may be a straightforward nappy rash. Psoriasis in the nappy area will look red and shiny and it will be very clearly demarcated i.e. it will be very obvious where the rash stops and normal skin takes over.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">What causes psoriasis?</font></strong></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Certain genes have been identified as being linked to psoriasis. It appears, however, that a genetic tendency needs to be triggered off by such things as injury, throat infection, certain drugs and physical and emotional stress. Research is beginning to unravel the genetic aspects and in time it should be possible to identify those who have a tendency to psoriasis before they actually develop signs. If one parent has psoriasis the chances of a child developing it is around 15%. However if both parents have psoriasis the chances increase to around 75%.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">What treatments are available?</font></strong></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Treatment must steer a course between doing too little and too much. Too little and worthwhile improvement is denied; too much and the life of the child and family is burdened by it. It is most important that parents talk through in detail the treatments proposed with the GP or Consultant. Many treatments in use for adults will help children but because of a lack of medical research on the effects on children some treatments are not licensed for use in childhood. It is important to follow instructions carefully and to keep the skin moisturised.</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">Immunisations</font></strong></font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">All the usual immunisation procedures may be safely given but it is worth remembering that a patch of psoriasis may come up at any site where the skin has been &#8216;injured&#8217; e.g. following immunisation with BCG<strong>.</strong></font></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="3" color="#660066"><strong>Scalp psoriasis</strong></font></font></p>
<p></font></font><strong><font color="#660066" face="Verdana"><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/images4.thumbnail.jpg" alt="images4.jpg" /></font></strong></p>
<p><strong></strong></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Psoriasis is a common skin condition affecting 2-3% of the population of the United Kingdom and Ireland.</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">What does it look like?</font></strong></p>
<p><font color="#660066">Psoriasis appears as raised red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. It is very simply a speeding up of the usual replacement processes of the skin. This process is the same wherever psoriasis occurs on the body.</font><font color="#660066"><strong><font color="#660066">How does scalp psoriasis feel?</font></strong></p>
<p></font><font color="#660066">There is thick scale and redness that may also be obvious around the scalp margins, on the forehead, neck and behind the ears. . Many patients experience severe itching and a feeling of tightness and some report soreness.</font></font><font color="#660066"> </font><font color="#660066"><font color="#660066"><strong>When should I go to the doctor?</strong></font></p>
<p></font><font color="#660066">For those with scalp patches which flare up from time to time it is possible to manage at home. Shampoo treatments are improving all the time and can be bought over the counter. Your pharmacist should be able to advise.<br />
However if your scalp is covered with thick scale or it does not clear up do consult your GP who may arrange referral to a Dermatologist. There is a range of treatments which can be prescribed including coal tar, dithranol, salicylic acid, steroid creams and ointments as well as Vitamin D based treatments.</font><font color="#660066"><strong><font color="#660066">Applying the treatment</font></strong></p>
<p></font><font color="#660066">The method of applying the treatment is most important. It involves parting the hair in sections and rubbing the treatment along the exposed areas. It is best to do this in order, working your way around the hair. You may need someone to help you in order to see the top of your head properly. You will find that some treatments need to be left on and some need to be washed out after a set period of time. Do follow the instructions that come with the product or the advice of your healthcare professional.</font><font color="#660066"> </font><font color="#660066"><strong><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066">Can I brush and comb?</font></font></strong></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066">Providing care is taken to avoid scratching the scalp, combing and brushing to remove scaling is not only good but necessary.</font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#330033" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"><strong>What about perms and other hair treatments?</strong></font></font><font size="1" color="#330033" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"> </font></font></p>
<p></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Scalp psoriasis should not prevent any cosmetic procedures. Having a perm or colouring the hair can have a positive effect on your self esteem. Hair dyes are gentler than they used to be but it would be best to seek advice from a hairdresser who should have up to date information about possible options, rather than colour or treat your hair at home. It is a good idea to make sure there are no scratches on the scalp when the hair is treated as the chemicals concerned can cause irritation on the broken skin.</font></p>
<p><font size="1" color="#330033" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">I am embarrassed to go to the hairdresser</font></strong></font></p>
<p><font size="1" color="#330033" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">A good hairdresser should be able to help you manage your hair and scalp. Telephone in advance and speak to a stylist to explain the situation or try to find a hairdresser who will visit you at home.</font></font></font><font size="1" color="#330033" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"> </font></font><font size="1" color="#330033" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#660066" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>My hair is coming out!</strong></font></p>
<p></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Some people with severe psoriasis suffer temporary thinning of the hair. This can be very distressing but the hair will grow again once the flare-up has subsided.</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">Does it go away?</font></strong></font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066">Psoriasis tends to come and go, and it can and does go away. Some people may be lucky enough not to suffer a further flare up. Others may experience long periods of remission. It is unusual for anyone to suffer extensive scalp psoriasis for a long time, provided they seek medical help and use treatments as directed.</font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"> </font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color="#660066"><font color="#660066"><strong>Helpful hints</strong></font></p>
<p></font><font color="#660066"><strong><br />
• </strong></font><font color="#000000">Brush and comb hair gently and regularly<br />
</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">•</font></strong></font> <font color="#000000">Buy some pillow case protectors or keep a supply of old pillow cases for times when you are using treatments<br />
</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">•</font></strong></font> <font color="#000000">Give all treatments a good chance to work - weeks rather than days<br />
</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">•</font></strong></font> <font color="#000000">Always read the instructions carefully on all treatments<br />
</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">•</font></strong></font> <font color="#000000">Tell your GP or Dermatologist if any treatment is causing you problems or discomfort<br />
</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">•</font></strong></font> <font color="#000000">Try different hairstyles to cover any psoriasis on the hairline<br />
</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">•</font></strong></font> <font color="#000000">Wearing light coloured clothes on the top half of your body will help to disguise falling scales<br />
</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">•</font></strong></font> <font color="#000000">Keep up to date with new treatments, the Association has details</font> </font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font size="3" color="#660066">What is psoriatic arthritis?</font></strong></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana">Psoriatic arthritis is a particular pattern of arthritis seen in association with psoriasis. There may be inflammation of one of several joints either in the hands, feet or larger joints or the spine. Typically only one set of joints is involved, although in rare cases it can become widespread. About 80% of those affected develop inflammation in their joints after the onset of psoriasis, but in about 20% the arthritis may be present before psoriasis. The joints affected may become tender, swollen and stiff. There is some evidence that inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis) without obvious inflammation of the joints (arthritis) may also be more common.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#660066">How does it differ from other forms of arthritis?</font></strong></font><font size="1" face="Verdana"> </font><font size="1" face="Verdana">In some cases it may mimic other forms of chronic arthritis and indeed having psoriasis does not preclude individuals from developing other forms of arthritis. However typically the pattern of joints that become inflamed is characteristic of psoriatic arthritis. For example if an entire finger or toe becomes swollen rather than an individual joint this is very suggestive of psoriatic arthritis. Other typical features may be involvement of the neck in those who suffer from the spinal form of arthritis or involvement of the very end joints of the fingers and toes.</p>
<p><font color="#000000"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#660066">Which joints are involved?</font></strong></font></font></font></p>
<p></font><font color="#000000"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">Potentially any joint in the body can be involved but it is unheard of for all of them to become inflamed in any one individual. Usually only one set of joints is involved.<strong> </strong></font></font></font></font></p>
<p><font color="#000000"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong>Is there any particular age of onset? </strong></font></font></font></font></p>
<p><font color="#000000"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">Psoriatic arthritis can develop at any age from early childhood and teenage years to later in life. Men and women are almost equally affected and there is some evidence that in females both following childbirth and during menopause there may be certain hormone related changes that trigger the onset of arthritis. It would seem also that men are more prone to developing arthritis of the spine and women more severe disease of other joints.</font></font></font></font><font color="#000000"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"> </font></font></font></font><font color="#000000"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong>How does the doctor diagnose psoriatic arthritis?</strong></font></font></font></p>
<p></font></font></font></font><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">There is no specific test for psoriatic arthritis. Most doctors would look for a history of psoriasis in you or your family together with arthritis and inflammation in at least one joint. Blood tests for rheumatoid arthritis are usually negative although in some cases it is hard to distinguish between psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors will look for one of the familiar patterns seen in psoriatic arthritis as well as other clinical changes to make a final diagnosis.</font></font></font><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong>Nail pitting</strong></font></font></font></p>
<p></font></font></font><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#330033" face="Verdana">Psoriatic nail disease is present in about 80% of those with psoriatic arthritis in contrast to about 30% of those with psoriasis alone. Examination of the nails therefore is most important.</font></font></font></font></p>
<p><font size="1"></font><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#660066">What treatments are available? </font></strong></font></font></p>
<p><font size="1"><font face="Verdana">There are many forms of treatment for psoriatic arthritis depending of course on the type and severity. Treatment may vary from rest and splints for acutely inflamed joints, physiotherapy with mobilisation and exercises for less actively inflamed joints to medications that can reduce inflammation.</font></font><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"> </font></font><font size="1"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong>How can I help myself?</strong></font></p>
<p>By learning as much as you can about arthritis in order to understand and know what to expect and to allay any fears you may have<br />
Aim for a balance of rest and exercise<br />
Keep warm on cold days<br />
Eat a good balanced diet<br />
Follow medical advice about treating colds and flu.</p>
<p><font size="2" color="#660066" face="Verdana"><strong>Psoriasis in Sensitive Areas</strong></font></p>
<p></font></font><font size="2" color="#660066" face="Verdana"><strong><font size="1" color="#660066" face="Verdana"><strong>What is psoriasis?</strong></font></strong></font><font size="2" color="#660066" face="Verdana"><strong> </strong></font><font size="2" color="#660066" face="Verdana"><strong><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000"><font face="Verdana">Psoriasis is a common skin condition affecting 2-3% of the population of the United Kingdom and Ireland.</font></font></font></p>
<p></strong></font><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000"><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#660066" face="Verdana">What does it look like?</font></strong></font></font></font><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000"><font face="Verdana"><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana">Psoriasis appears as raised red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. It is very simply a speeding up of the usual replacement processes of the skin. This process is the same wherever psoriasis occurs on the body.</font><font size="1" color="#000000"><strong><font face="Verdana"> </font></strong></font></p>
<p></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000"></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><strong><font face="Verdana">Psoriasis in sensitive areas</font></strong></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><strong> </strong></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><strong><font color="#000000"><font face="Verdana">Psoriasis can affect all parts of the body but there are some area where the skin is thinner and may be more sensitive to treatment. These areas include the <em>flexures </em>- in skin folds, armpits, under the breast, between the buttocks and the groin and genital area - as well as the face and hairline.<br />
Psoriasis in sensitive areas may also be referred to as: -<br />
<strong><font color="#660066">• </font></strong>Genital psoriasis<br />
<font size="4"><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><strong>•</strong></font></font></font></font></font></font><font face="Verdana"> Flexural psoriasis<br />
<font size="4"><font size="2" color="#660066"><font color="#660066"><font color="#000000"><strong><font size="1" color="#660066">•</font></strong></font></font></font></font></font><font face="Verdana"> </font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font face="Verdana">Inverse psoriasis </font></font></p>
<p></strong></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000"></font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><strong><font face="Verdana">How does psoriasis differ in a flexural area?</font></strong></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><strong><font color="#000000"><font face="Verdana">Psoriasis in flexural areas often does not have the typical &#8216;plaques&#8217; or scaliness seen in other areas and will appear as bright red, shiny patches of skin. It may be very uncomfortable and painful and may make people feel embarrassed about or avoid intimate situations.</font></font></p>
<p></strong><font color="#000000"><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#660066">What might trigger it?</font></strong></font></font></p>
<p></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">It is not easy to pin pont what triggers psoriasis in flexural areas as it can just occur spontaneously. However, in the armpits and in the flexures and groin area psoriasis may sometimes worsen as a result of external factors. These may include tight clothing rubbing the skin, deodorants or antiperspirants, sanitary towels or tampons, harsh toilet paper, thrush and sexual intercourse.</font></font></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"> </font></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">What should I do?</font></font></strong></p>
<p></font></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">It is better to seek help from your GP or Dermatologist for flexural areas, as some products are more suitable for treating these areas than others.</font></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong>What treatments are available?</strong></font></font></p>
<p></font></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">It is very important that you routinely use a moisturiser / emollient to make the skin more comfortable. In addition, there is a range of topical treatments available - creams and ointments - that your doctor can prescribe.<br />
Skin in the flexural areas is thinner, and is often covered by clothing or even neighbouring skin such as the armpit. Treatment is absorbed more readily and therefore does not need to be as strong to be effective.<br />
Topical Vitamin D creams and ointments can be very effective. The newer types are less likely to cause irritation, which has been a problem with these products in the past, making them more suitable for the treatment of sensitive areas and on the face. If you have widespread psoriasis it may now be possible to have just one treatment for all areas of the body.<br />
Mild to moderate potency steroid creams may be recommended for flexural areas. However, care should be taken with their use in flexures as the warm, air-free environment can increase the potency and may lead to side effects such as skin thinning. It is also important that topical steroids are not used for long periods of time or without close supervision from your doctor. Treatments should never be stopped abruptly as this may trigger a rebound of your psoriasis.<br />
Topical steroids may also be combined with anti-fungal and anti bacterial agents because infections with yeasts and bacteria are more common in sensitive areas.</font></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"> </font></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong>How can I help myself?</strong></font></font></p>
<p></font><font face="Verdana">When psoriasis affects the genital skin it can be most distressing and as a patient both you and your sexual partner may need reassurance and encouragement. If you and your partner are concerned or put off by genital psoriasis it may be helpful to talk together to your dermatologist of GP.<br />
<strong>Psoriasis is not infectious and cannot be transmitted to another person by sexual contact. </strong></font></p>
<p><font face="Verdana">Using condoms may be helpful for male patients* and women can use lubricating jelly to reduce further aggravation of their condition.<br />
* be careful if using an ointment to treat your genital psoriasis as this can reduce the effectiveness of latex condoms - use a non-latex alternative such as Durex Avanti or Pasante Unique.<br />
• Avoid the use of all soaps, gels and scented products in the bath or shower<br />
<font size="4"><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000">•</font></font></font></font></p>
<p><font face="Verdana">Using a soft towel always pat the area dry after bathing and showering rather than rubbing vigorously<br />
<font size="4"><font size="2" color="#660066"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000">• </font></font></font></font></font><font size="1" color="#000000" face="Verdana">Wear clean cotton underwear and avoid tight fitting jeans or trousers<br />
</font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font size="4"><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><font face="Verdana"><font color="#000000">• Women should try to wear stockings rather than tights<br />
<font size="4"><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000">•</font></font></font></font> </font><font color="#000000" face="Verdana">Men may find boxer shorts preferable to briefs<br />
</font></font></font></font></font><font size="4"><font size="2" color="#660066"><font size="1" color="#000000"><font color="#660066"><font color="#000000" face="Verdana">•</font></font></font></font></font><font face="Verdana"> Do not use products prescribed for other parts of the body unless specifically directed to do so by your doctor.</font></font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font face="Verdana"> </font></font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" color="#000000"><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#660066">Psoriasis on the face and hairline</font></strong></font></font></p>
<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066">Psoriasis on the face is relatively uncommon and plaques may be less clearly defined, which sometimes leads to confusion with eczema.<br />
If you have scalp psoriasis you may have specific treatments prescribed by your doctor that you can also use to treat psoriasis on your hairline. If these cause irritation on your facial skin, you should talk to your doctor about an alternative treatment that is approved for use on the face. Do use lots of moisturiser to help keep the scaling under control and to keep the skin comfortable. A weak topical steroid may help and there are Vitamin D based treatments which are licensed for use on the face.</font></font></p>
<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><br />
<font size="2" color="#660066" face="Verdana"><strong>Pustular Psoriasis</strong> </font></font></font><font face="Verdana"></font><font face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><font size="1" face="Verdana">It is somewhat confusing to have two types of psoriasis with similar names i.e. Generalised Pustular Psoriasis, which is quite a rare and serious form of psoriasis and, Pustular Psoriasis of the palms and soles (also referred to as palmoplantar pustulosis, PPP).</font></p>
<p></font></font><font size="1" face="Verdana"><font color="#660066"><strong>What is Pustular Psoriasis?</strong></font><br />
Pustular psoriasis of the palms and soles, also referred to as palmoplantar pustulosis, or PPP, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition where crops of sterile pustules (yellow pus spots) on the palms and soles of the feet erupt repeatedly over months or year. The affected areas become red and scaly, cracks may form and these are often painful. It has been thought to be a pustular variant of psoriasis.</font><font size="1" face="Verdana"><font size="1" face="Verdana">When pustular psoriasis is referred to without any further description, however, it usually means a much rarer and serious from of the disease where pustules are visible at other sites, this is often referred to as generalised pustular psoriasis or von Zumbusch pustular psoriasis. When pustules are visible in areas other than the palms and soles it very often means that psoriasis is in an unstable stage, and spreading very rapidly, this may make the patient feel quite ill from loss of heat and fluid resulting in feverish type symptoms.<br />
In generalised pustular psoriasis the skin is covered with very small pustules on a background of very red, hot skin. This can develop quickly and so is essential to get medical help immediately.</font><font size="1" face="Verdana">The fluid in the pustules is not an infection or bacteria, and the pustules are not contagious.</font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" color="#660066" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>Causes of Pustular Psoriasis</strong></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br />
As with other types of psoriasis, infections or stress may be a trigger factor in PPP. A strong association with smoking has also been identified, the mechanism of which is uncertain but may be linked to the products of smoking encouraging the inflammatory cells to accumulate in the epidermis (the top layer of the skin).<br />
Generalised pustular psoriasis can be triggered by an infection, sudden withdrawal of topical or systemic steroids, pregnancy, and some prescription drugs.</font></p>
<p><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">Treatments</font></strong><br />
Topical treatments are normally prescribed first for PPP, in particular topical steroid creams and ointments. The doctor, nurse or dermatologist may advise the use of topical steroids under hydrocolloid occlusion (a type of dressing). Other forms of treatment that are used elsewhere can also be employed, i.e. tar, dithranol and bland emollients; salicylic acid is often incorporated into these preparations as it helps to reduce the thick scaling. PPP is typically stubborn to treat, should this be the case, the dermatologist may prescribe a course of PUVA therapy. PUVA therapy for the hands and feet may either involve oral psoralen or topical psoralen in which case it is applied like a paint – this is then followed by exposure to the ultra-violet A radiation. This modified PUVA treatment using a paint is especially useful for the feet; the patient sits with the soles exposed to a small UVA machine (as opposed to standing in a cabinet, where of course the soles are not reached by light).<br />
A combination of PUVA with the oral retinoid Acitretin (RePUVA) has also been found to be effective for difficult to treat PPP, and is possibly more effective than the two treatments being used alone. Methotrexate and ciclosporin can also be used to treat PPP.<br />
People with generalised pustular psoriasis often require hospitalisation for rehydration and topical and systemic treatments. These treatments typically include antibiotics and other systemic medications such as acitretin, ciclosporin or methotrexate. PUVA may be used once the severe stage of pustulosis and redness has passed.</font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> </font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">Age of onset</font></strong><br />
Pustular psoriasis of the hands and feet can occur at any age, but is rare in children and teenagers.<br />
Generalised pustular psoriasis can also develop at any age, even occasionally in childhood, though it would be very rare at that time.</font></p>
<p><font size="1" color="#ff0000" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><em>It is important to note that pustular psoriasis, like any other form of psoriasis, is not catching in any way.</em></strong></font></p>
<p></font><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong><font color="#660066">Acropustulosis (acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau)</font></strong><br />
This rare type of pustular psoriasis is characterised by skin lesions on the ends of the fingers and sometimes on the toes. Often the lesions are painful and disabling, producing deformity of the nails. Occasionally, in severe cases, there may be bone changes.<br />
The eruption may start after an injury to the skin, however studies investigating the cause of the disease have led scientists to believe that the staphylococcal infection plays a role.<br />
Unfortunately, acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau has been traditionally hard to treat. Initial treatment is with a steroid based ointment, often under occlusion. Oral drugs have been used with some success in clearing the lesions and restoring the nails. As with other forms of pustular psoriasis PUVA therapy may also be used. </font></p>
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		<title>Use Herbs For Healthy Hair</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/use-herbs-for-healthy-hair/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/use-herbs-for-healthy-hair/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:34:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Herbs for Hir]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/use-herbs-for-healthy-hair/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[following herbs are very useful in attaing healty and beautiful hair
 1. Sage: Excellent for weak hair.
2. Rosemary: Enhances dark hair
3. Chamomile: Promotes healthy hair growth.
4. Catnip: Promotes hair growth.
5. Burdock Root: Promotes hair growth and reduces hair from falling out
Hair Loss
Hair is a growth consisting of dead skin cells that are filled with a protein [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>following herbs are very useful in attaing healty and beautiful hair</p>
<p> <strong><font size="2" face="Arial">1</font></strong><font size="2" face="Arial">. Sage: Excellent for weak hair.<br />
<strong>2</strong>. Rosemary: Enhances dark hair<br />
<strong>3</strong>. Chamomile: Promotes healthy hair growth.<br />
<strong>4</strong>. Catnip: Promotes hair growth.<br />
<strong>5</strong>. Burdock Root: Promotes hair growth and reduces hair from falling out</font></p>
<p><strong><font size="-1" face="Arial">Hair Loss</font></strong></p>
<p><font size="-1" face="Arial">Hair is a growth consisting of dead skin cells that are filled with a protein called keratin. (which is the main ingredient in your fingernails.) Each hair is encased and nourished by a follicle buried under the skin.</font></p>
<p><font size="-1" face="Arial">Loss or absence of hair, also known as alopecia is a hereditary and unavoidable condition. In some men it can be a side effect of medication, a dietary deficiency or hormonal imbalance.</font></p>
<p><font size="-1" face="Arial">You can help reduce the effects of hair loss from stress, trauma, shock or illness by increasing your intake of vitamin C found in fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruit and juices, parsley, broccoli, green peppers and black currants.</font></p>
<p><font size="-1" face="Arial">Take a vitamin B complex everyday or brewers yeast. Increase your intake of protein found in meat, fish, liver, wheat germ, dried cooked beans and peas, tofu, cheese, milk and eggs.</font></p>
<p><font size="-1" face="Arial">The Chinese believe that hair is nourished by the blood, and therefore influenced by the kidney &amp; liver. Treatment is aimed at these organs using fleeceflower root, wolfberry fruit or mulberry fruit. Here are some great shampoos you may want to make:</font></p>
<p><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/110907-beautiful-hair.thumbnail.gif" alt="110907-beautiful-hair.gif" /></p>
<p><strong><font size="-1" face="Arial">HERBAL SHAMPOO</font></strong><font size="-1" face="Arial"> - great for dandruff</font></p>
<p><font size="-1" face="Arial">4 tablespoons dried thyme boiled for 10 minutes in 2 cups of water. Strain and let cool before massaging onto clean damp hair. Leave on for 1 hour then rinse in warm water.</font></p>
<p><strong><font size="-1" face="Arial">Second recipe:</font></strong></p>
<p><font size="-1" face="Arial">2 egg yolks beaten in a half cup of water, massage onto hair and scalp for 5 minutes. Rinse well with water and then rinse with a mixture of 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and water.</font></p>
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		<title>home made Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment for Damaged Hair</title>
		<link>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/home-made-deep-conditioning-hair-treatment-for-damaged-hair/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/home-made-deep-conditioning-hair-treatment-for-damaged-hair/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:24:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lass™</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Deep Conditioning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thebeaumonde.net/2008/03/home-made-deep-conditioning-hair-treatment-for-damaged-hair/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ first we will learn what is deep conditioning
Professionals use treatments that makes your dry or damaged hair smooth and healthy looking. It restores moisture and prevents further problems. .
 
Ingredients 1 cup mayonise (room temperature if possible, like from a jar of brand new mayo just off the grocery store shelf) 1/2 cup olive oil [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><font size="4"><strong> first we will learn what is deep conditioning</strong></font></p>
<p><font size="4"><font color="#008080">Professionals use treatments that makes your dry or damaged hair smooth and healthy looking. It restores moisture and prevents further problems.</font><font color="#008080"> </font></font><font size="4"><font color="#008080">.</font></font></p>
<p><font size="4"><font color="#008080"><img src="http://www.thebeaumonde.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/pantene.thumbnail.jpg" alt="pantene.jpg" /></font></font><font size="4"><font color="#008080"> </font></font></p>
<p><font size="4"><font color="#008080"><strong>Ingredients</strong></font></font><font size="4"><font color="#008080"> </font></font><font size="4"><font color="#008080">1 cup mayonise (room temperature if possible, like from a jar of brand new mayo just off the grocery store shelf) 1/2 cup olive oil , 3 egg yolks</p>
<p></font></font><strong><font size="4">Directions</font></strong><strong><font size="4"> </font></strong><strong></strong><strong><font size="4"><dir><dir><font size="2">1Blend all ingredients together in a bowl.<strong><font size="2">2</font></strong><strong><font size="2">* If possible use room temperature mayo - if not, let mixture warm up to room temperature*. **If you are in a rush and just can&#8217;t wait - microwave the mayo for 15 seconds - but be careful - if you nuke it too long it begins to separate**.</font></strong><strong><font size="2">3</font></strong><strong><font size="2">Apply thoroughly through your hair adding extra at the ends.</font></strong><strong><font size="2"><strong><font size="2">4</font></strong><strong><font size="2">Pile on top of your head and cover with a plastic shower cap and then cover with a towel to keep in the heat from your head.</font></strong></font></strong></p>
<p></font><strong><font size="2">5</font></strong><strong><font size="2">Leave on for at least 10-20 minutes and then rinse out.</font></strong><strong><font size="2"><strong><font size="2">6</font></strong><strong><font size="2">Should make 1 to 2 hair treatments depending on the length of your hair.</font></strong></font></strong><strong><font size="2"><strong><font size="2">7</font></strong><strong><font size="2">If you don&#8217;t want to save the left over for another treatment use whatever is left over as a moisturizing face mask. Also can be used on dry elbow and knees (for best results, this should be used immediately after making and not saved. It will still work, but won&#8217;t be as effective as when it&#8217;s fresh).</font></strong><strong><font size="2"> </font></strong><strong><font size="2">8</font></strong><strong><font size="2">Do NOT shampoo afterwards, just rinse it really well. Do this on a day when you are not going to go out. Any oil that clings to your hair after you rinse it out, will continue to condition your hair until the next time you shampoo it out.</font></strong><strong><font size="2"><strong><font size="2">9</font></strong><strong><font size="2">for best hair conditioning purposes, use immediately after making without refrigerating first. The reason is, the fats and oil will penetrate your hair follicles better if it is not cold. Tip to remember for all hair care: Warm/Hot opens the hair follicles so that conditioner can penetrate deeper. And cold water closes the hair follicles. So after you shower your hair, after you rinse every thing out, rinse again with a blast of very cold water. The coldest you can possibly stand. This cold water blast will also make your hair super shiny&#8230;.</font></strong></font></strong></p>
<p></font></strong></dir></dir></font></strong><font size="2" face="Arial">here is another which is more simple yet effective<strong><font face="Arial">The Ingredients <dir><dir><font size="2" face="Arial">1/2 cup of real mayonnaise<font face="Times New Roman">&#8230;</font></font></dir></dir></font></strong><strong><font face="Arial">The Instructions &#8230;</font></strong><font size="2" face="Arial">Comb the mayonaisse through your damp hair, then wrap your head in a towel, let it penetrate for 20 minutes. Shampoo.</font><font size="2" face="Arial"><strong>Special Note: Make sure to use mayonaisse and NOT salad dressing. Salad Dressing will dry your hair out.</strong></font></font></p>
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