anti-aging

The Science and Benefits of LED Light Therapy for Facial Skin

Posted on by zion azar

Introduction

LED (Light Emitting Diode) light therapy has gained significant popularity in skincare due to its non-invasive, pain-free, and effective approach to improving facial skin. Dermatologists and aestheticians recommend LED therapy for treating acne, reducing signs of aging, and promoting overall skin health. But how effective is LED light therapy? What devices are top sellers? Is it FDA-approved? This article dives into the details of LED light therapy for facial skin, including its science, benefits, top devices, and clinical evidence.

What is LED Light Therapy?

LED light therapy uses different wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin at various depths, stimulating cellular processes. Unlike UV rays, LED light does not cause damage and is safe for regular use. Each color of LED light serves a different purpose:

  • Red Light (630-700 nm): Boosts collagen production, reduces fine lines, and improves elasticity.
  • Blue Light (400-470 nm): Kills acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes), reducing breakouts.
  • Yellow Light (570-590 nm): Improves circulation, reduces redness, and promotes healing.
  • Green Light (520-530 nm): Targets hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone.

How Does LED Light Therapy Work?

LED light penetrates the skin and interacts with cells to stimulate mitochondrial function, leading to increased ATP (energy production). This promotes cell regeneration, enhances collagen synthesis, and reduces inflammation. Because of this process, LED therapy is widely used for anti-aging, acne treatment, and skin rejuvenation.

FDA Status of LED Light Therapy

Many LED light therapy devices are FDA-cleared for at-home and professional use. The FDA evaluates these devices for safety and efficacy, ensuring they meet specific guidelines. Notable devices with FDA clearance include:

  • Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro (anti-aging and acne treatment)
  • Omnilux Contour FACE (collagen stimulation and wrinkle reduction)
  • MZ Skin Light Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device (multi-purpose therapy)
  • Foreo UFO 2 (light therapy and facial massaging)
  • NowMi Storm (advanced skin rejuvenation and hydration)

FDA clearance does not mean these devices provide guaranteed results, but it confirms they meet safety standards for consumer use.

Top-Selling LED Light Therapy Devices

Here are some of the best-selling LED light therapy devices available in 2024:

  1. Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
    • Key Features:
    o Red and blue light therapy
    o FDA-cleared
    o Hands-free and lightweight design
    • Best For:
    o Acne-prone and aging skin
    o Boosting collagen and reducing breakouts
  2. Omnilux Contour FACE
    • Key Features:
    o Flexible, medical-grade LED mask
    o FDA-cleared for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation
    o Rechargeable and portable
    • Best For:
    o Improving skin elasticity
    o Treating fine lines and wrinkles
  3. CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
    • Key Features:
    o Red and near-infrared light therapy
    o Clinically tested technology
    o Comfortable, flexible silicone design
    • Best For:
    o Stimulating collagen production
    o Soothing inflammation and redness
  4. MZ Skin Light Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device
    • Key Features:
    o Five different LED light settings (red, blue, yellow, green, and white)
    o FDA-approved
    o High-end design
    • Best For:
    o Multiple skin concerns
    o Luxury skincare enthusiasts
  5. Foreo UFO 2
    • Key Features:
    o Full-spectrum LED light therapy
    o Combines light therapy with facial massage
    o App-controlled for personalized treatments
    • Best For:
    o On-the-go skincare
    o Enhancing serums and masks
  6. NowMi Storm
    • Key Features:
    • Revolutionary Rotating EMS Technology: With wide electrodes measuring 2cm x 5cm, the STORM reaches deep into the muscles adjacent to the periosteal layer, stretching and stimulating these foundational supports from every angle.
    • Frequency and Function: Operates at frequencies from 4 to 100Hz, the rotating EMS meticulously stretches muscles, enhancing the structural support of your facial features.
    • Sonic Vibrations: Boosts blood circulation and stimulates collagen production by gently heating the dermis and epidermis layers to an optimal 43 degrees Celsius.
    • Advanced LED Technology: Features 28 super-bright LEDs across four wavelengths (630nm, 660nm, 830nm, and 940nm) from red to near-infrared (NIR), ensuring comprehensive penetration and rejuvenation across all skin layers.
    • Sapphire Window: Designed for efficient and safe heat transfer, safeguarding your skin’s comfort and health.
    • Best For:
    o Hydrating and revitalizing dull skin
    o Reducing fine lines and boosting collagen
    o Multiple skin concerns
    o Stimulating collagen production
    o Soothing inflammation and redness

Clinical Evidence Supporting LED Light Therapy

Numerous scientific studies and clinical trials support the effectiveness of LED light therapy for facial skin.

  1. Anti-Aging Benefits (Red Light Therapy)
    A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2021) found that red light therapy significantly increased collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles after 12 weeks of use.
    • Participants showed improved skin elasticity and texture with no adverse effects.
    • The depth of wrinkles decreased by 30-50% in some cases.
  2. Acne Treatment (Blue Light Therapy)
    A 2018 study in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery confirmed that blue light therapy reduced acne lesions by up to 70% after 8 weeks.
    • Blue light therapy effectively kills P. acnes bacteria, reducing inflammation and preventing breakouts.
    • Combination red and blue light therapy was even more effective in reducing acne and healing skin.
  3. Hyperpigmentation and Skin Tone (Green and Yellow Light Therapy)
    A 2020 study published in Dermatologic Surgery found that green and yellow light therapy reduced pigmentation, sunspots, and redness.
    • Participants experienced brighter skin with a more even tone after 10-12 weeks of consistent use.

How to Use LED Light Therapy at Home

Using LED light therapy correctly is crucial to achieving the best results. Follow these steps:

  • Start with clean skin – Wash your face to remove makeup and oil.
  • Choose the right light setting – Red for anti-aging, blue for acne, etc.
  • Use for the recommended time – Typically 10-20 minutes per session.
  • Be consistent – For visible results, use 3-5 times per week for at least 6-8 weeks.
  • Apply skincare products – Follow with a moisturizer, serum, or SPF for enhanced effects.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

LED light therapy is generally safe and non-invasive, but there are a few considerations:

  • Mild redness or dryness may occur initially.
  • Avoid direct eye exposure to high-intensity LED light.
  • People with photosensitivity, epilepsy, or taking medications that cause light sensitivity should consult a doctor before use.

Conclusion: Is LED Light Therapy Worth It?

LED light therapy is a clinically proven, safe, and effective treatment for acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and skin rejuvenation. FDA-cleared devices offer at-home solutions comparable to professional treatments, making it easier than ever to achieve radiant skin.
For best results, consistency is key. Choose an FDA-approved device, follow the recommended usage, and pair it with a good skincare routine. With regular use, LED light therapy can transform your skin, making it clearer, firmer, and more youthful-looking.

References for clinical results

Regenerative Aesthetics: The Future of Beauty and Skin Health

Posted on by zion azar

In the dynamic world of beauty and skincare, regenerative aesthetics is rapidly emerging as a transformative approach, prioritizing the body’s innate healing mechanisms over invasive procedures. This innovative field seamlessly blends advanced medical techniques, cutting-edge biotechnologies, and holistic therapies to revitalize and restore skin health at the cellular level. Unlike conventional cosmetic treatments that often yield transient results, regenerative aesthetics aims to deliver enduring improvements by stimulating the body’s natural regenerative capabilities.

Understanding Regenerative Aesthetics: A Cellular Approach

Regenerative aesthetics draws its foundation from regenerative medicine, which focuses on tissue repair, stem cell therapy, and biomaterials to facilitate healing and regeneration. Within the aesthetic realm, this translates to treatments that amplify collagen production, enhance skin elasticity, and repair damaged tissues without relying on synthetic fillers or surgical interventions.
The core principle of regenerative aesthetics lies in harnessing the body’s remarkable ability to self-heal. As we age, our skin’s intrinsic regenerative processes decelerate, leading to visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, volume loss, and diminished skin tone. By leveraging advanced scientific modalities, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, stem cell treatments, exosome therapy, and microneedling, regenerative aesthetics offers a biologically harmonious alternative.

The Science Behind Regenerative Aesthetics: Evidence-Based Rejuvenation

At the heart of regenerative aesthetics lies a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between cells, growth factors, and the extracellular matrix, all crucial for maintaining youthful, vibrant skin.
Scientific evidence robustly supports the efficacy of regenerative aesthetics through numerous clinical trials. For example:

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A 2020 study published in The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology demonstrated that PRP therapy significantly improved skin texture and reduced wrinkles after three treatment sessions. The study highlighted the role of growth factors in PRP in stimulating fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis.
  • Stem Cell Therapy: Research published in Stem Cells Translational Medicine has highlighted the effectiveness of adipose-derived stem cell treatments in enhancing skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging. These studies show that stem cells release growth factors and cytokines that promote tissue regeneration and angiogenesis.
  • Exosome Therapy: Extensive research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences indicates exosome therapy’s potential to promote collagen production and accelerate wound healing. Exosomes, as carriers of signaling molecules, facilitate intercellular communication and tissue repair.

Key Regenerative Aesthetic Techniques:Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:

  1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:
    o This technique utilizes the patient’s own blood, processed to concentrate platelets and growth factors.
    o These components are then injected or applied topically to stimulate cell regeneration, increase collagen production, and accelerate tissue healing.
    o PRP is widely used for facial rejuvenation, hair restoration, and scar treatment.
  2. Stem Cell Therapy:
    o Stem cells, with their unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, are derived from sources like adipose tissue, bone marrow, or umbilical cord blood.
    o They are introduced into the skin to promote the repair of damaged cells, reduce inflammation, and enhance tissue renewal.
    o This approach shows promise for treating deep wrinkles, sun damage, and conditions like rosacea.
  3. Exosome Therapy:
    o Exosomes, extracellular vesicles carrying signaling molecules, enhance cell communication and stimulate collagen synthesis.
    o This therapy delivers targeted regenerative effects with minimal downtime.
  4. Microneedling with Growth Factors:
    o Microneedling creates micro-injuries to trigger the body’s wound-healing response.
    o Combined with growth factors from PRP or exosome therapy, it enhances skin repair, reduces fine lines, and improves complexion.
    o This is often used to treat acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and skin laxity.
  5. Bio-Remodeling Injectables:
    o Unlike traditional fillers, these stimulate natural collagen and elastin production.
    o Hyaluronic acid-based products improve hydration, firmness, and elasticity over time.

Benefits of Regenerative Aesthetics: Natural and Sustainable Results

  • Natural-Looking Results: Enhances natural beauty without altering facial expressions.
  • Long-Lasting Effects: Stimulates cellular regeneration for durable outcomes.
  • Minimal Downtime: Minimally invasive procedures with little to no recovery time.
  • Reduced Risk of Adverse Reactions: Uses the patient’s own biological materials.
  • Holistic Approach to Skin Health: Improves overall skin quality.

The Future of Regenerative Aesthetics: Innovation and Personalization

  • 3D Bioprinting for Skin Regeneration: Creating customized skin grafts.
  • AI and Personalized Skincare: Analyzing skin conditions for tailored treatments.
  • Gene Therapy in Aesthetic Medicine: Modifying genes for anti-aging.
  • Nanotechnology in Skincare: Enhancing delivery of growth factors.

Is Regenerative Aesthetics Right for You?

Regenerative aesthetics is suitable for individuals looking for a natural, non-invasive way to enhance their skin’s health and appearance. Whether you’re concerned about fine lines, volume loss, or overall skin quality, these treatments offer a viable alternative to traditional cosmetic procedures. However, as with any aesthetic treatment, it is essential to consult with a qualified professional to determine the most appropriate approach based on individual skin conditions and goals.

Conclusion: A New Era of Beauty

Regenerative aesthetics is redefining the future of beauty by shifting the focus from artificial enhancements to natural restoration. By harnessing the power of biological regeneration, these treatments offer a safer, more sustainable approach to skin rejuvenation. As the field continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions that prioritize long-term skin health and youthful vitality.
Whether you’re considering PRP therapy, stem cell treatments, or bio-remodeling injectables, regenerative aesthetics is paving the way for a new era in beauty—one where science and nature work in harmony to bring out the best in our skin.

Reveal Radiant Skin with NowMi Pulsed InfraRed Facial Treatment

Posted on by zion azar

Introduction: Achieving flawless and youthful-looking skin is a common aspiration for women. However, concerns such as uneven tone, fine lines, and signs of aging can significantly impact their confidence. Thankfully, the NowMi Pulsed InfraRed (PIR Pro) facial treatment provides an innovative solution to effectively address these issues. In this blog post, we will delve into the problem that the NowMi PIR treatment solves for women, discuss why it is crucial to tackle this problem, explore how NowMi works its magic, highlight the reasons why women should start using it now, and even include a compelling user testimonial.

PIR Pro - Pulsed Infrared device


What Problem Does NowMi PIR Pro Treatment Solve for Women? Many women struggle with common skin issues such as uneven tone, fine lines, and signs of aging. These concerns often arise due to factors like sun exposure, pollution, stress, and the natural aging process. The NowMi PIR Pro treatment is specifically designed to target and alleviate these problems, offering women a comprehensive solution.


Why Is It Crucial to Solve This Problem? Women recognize that healthy and radiant skin is vital for their overall well-being and self-confidence. By addressing these prevalent skin concerns, the NowMi PIR treatment empowers women to take control of their skin health, enhancing their appearance and boosting their self-esteem.


How Does NowMi Solve the Problem? The NowMi PIR Pro treatment harnesses the power of pulsed infra-red (PIR Pro) technology, a groundbreaking skincare technique that rejuvenates and revitalizes the skin. The NowMi device emits gentle PIR waves that penetrate the skin’s surface, stimulating collagen production, improving blood circulation, and promoting cell renewal. These actions effectively reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation irregularities, resulting in a smoother, more youthful complexion.


Why Should Women Start Using NowMi Now? There are several compelling reasons why women should incorporate the NowMi PIR Pro facial treatment into their skincare routine immediately:

  1. Visible Results: NowMi delivers noticeable improvements in skin texture, tone, and elasticity. With regular use, women can experience a reduction in fine lines, diminished pigmentation, and an overall more youthful appearance. The rejuvenating effects become visible after just one treatment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking quick results.
  2. Convenience: NowMi is designed to seamlessly fit into busy lifestyles. The treatment can be performed at home, eliminating the need for salon visits or lengthy appointments. The compact and user-friendly NowMi PIR Pro device allows women to enjoy a spa-like experience in the comfort of their own homes.
  3. Anti-Aging Solution: NowMi PIR Pro technology stimulates collagen production, a key component in maintaining youthful skin. By promoting collagen synthesis and improving blood circulation, the treatment effectively combats the signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Starting the NowMi regimen early can help prevent premature aging, providing long-term benefits.

User Testimonial – Emily, 42: “Since incorporating the NowMi PIR Pro treatment into my skincare routine, I have witnessed a remarkable transformation in my skin. The fine lines around my eyes and mouth have visibly diminished, and my complexion looks smoother and more even. I appreciate the convenience of the at-home treatment and the fact that I can achieve professional-quality results on my own time. NowMi has become an indispensable part of my self-care routine!”


Conclusion: The NowMi Pulsed InfraRed facial treatment offers a powerful solution to common skin concerns, enabling women to achieve radiant and youthful-looking skin. By utilizing PIR Pro technology, NowMi effectively addresses signs of aging, uneven skin tone, and fine lines. With its visible results, convenience, and anti-aging benefits, NowMi empowers women to prioritize their skin health and embrace their natural beauty. Start using NowMi now and unlock a revitalized and radiant complexion.

Facial skin rejuvenation

Posted on by abigail

NowMi facial skin rejuvenationFacial skin rejuvenation refers to a broad range of aesthetic treatments designed to help the skin look its very best.  This usually includes reducing and or eliminating wrinkles and fine lines, creating an even skin tone, restoring volume etc.  Over the past 15 years there has been a huge surge in the variety of treatments available, and the aesthetic industry is constantly developing new technologies to meet the growing demand.

There are two main treatment categories of facial skin rejuvenation treatments: invasive and non-invasive.

Invasive facial skin rejuvenation treatments:

Invasive or surgical procedures include a broad range of treatments such as a brow lift (forehead lift), eye lift (blepharoplasty), facelift (rhytidectomy), chin lift and neck lift.

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, more and more Americans are choosing to undergo surgical procedures.

Specifically:

  • Surgical procedures accounted for 77% of the total expenditures in 2017 and nonsurgical procedures accounted for 23%.
  • Surgical procedures were up 11% in 2017.
  • The surgical procedures that saw the most significant increases in 2017 include:
    • Eyelid Surgery – blepharoplasty (up 26.3%)
    • Buttock Augmentation – implants and fat transfer (up 25.5%)
    • Fat Transfer to the Face (up 22.3%)
    • Facelifts (up 21.9%)
    • Neck Lifts and Upper Arm Lifts (both up 20.1%)

B&A of a woman after a facelift
A B&A picture of a woman who underwent a face lift.

While surgical procedures yield highly visible results, they are not without risk. Aesthetic surgery involves the same risks as any other surgery, including complications with anesthesia and the surgery itself. Additionally, the recuperation period is often lengthy and there is a significant pain factor.

Non-Invasive facial skin rejuvenation treatments:

For those who are surgery averse, a wide variety of non-invasive treatments have been developed.  Chemical Peels and Dermabrasion/Microdermabrasion are the most popular treatments.  During a  chemical peel treatment, the outermost layer of the skin is dissolved using acids.  Chemical peels vary in their intensity and range from mild to deep. Once the skin layer has peeled off, a new and fresher layer emerges in its place. Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion also wound the skin in order to create a new skin layer but do so my “sanding” the facial skin layer off.

The more complex facial skin rejuvenation treatments use cutting edge laser, radio-frequency, ultrasound and infrared technologies.  In very broad terms, the laser treatments wound the skin to stimulate the production of a healthier layer of facial skin.  The other energy-based treatments stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin and improve/remove textural imperfections. Many aesthetic practitioners have adopted a multiple-technology approach to facial skin rejuvenation which enables them to customize each treatment in order to achieve the best results.

Non-surgical procedures have been continuously on the rise.  As can be seen from the table below taken from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, since 2012, the number of treatments have increased by 28%.

ASAPS statistics on non-invasive treatments

The NowMi treatment for facial skin rejuvenation:

The NowMi treatment offers a breakthrough in facial skin rejuvenation. The reason is that it offers a spa quality treatment in a home-based device. In order to deliver on such a promise, the technologies used in the spa had to be adapted to a home use device.  While this is no easy task, the developers of the NowMi device were able to achieve this goal.

The NowMi treatment uses several technologies for facial skin rejuvenation:

  1. The Bohr effect: The NowMi treatment creates a natural ‘facial skin oxygenation’ using the scientifically proven ‘Bohr effect’.   During treatment, a C02 rich environment is formed on the skin.  As a result, the body sends oxygen rich blood to the treatment area and there is an increase in cell turnover and collagen and elastin production.
  2. Sonic energy: The NowMi PRO device is equipped with sonic energy. Throughout the treatment, the skin is exposed to 6,000 sonic pulsations per minute. The pulsations exponentially improve the 4 actions performed by the NowMi Pro Weekly Treatment – namely, skin exfoliation, nourishment, oxygenation and protection.

While the NowMi treatment cannot perform the dramatic changes that surgical procedures can, it is an excellent treatment that nourishes and protects the skin and significantly slows down the signs of aging. It does so by infusing the skin with virtually pure vitamin C which helps the body produce new collagen and protects against extrinsic skin damage.  The treatment also infuses the skin with vitamin E and Hyaluronic acid which have anti-aging qualities.  Best of all, the treatment can be performed in 5 minutes in the comfort of your home and costs a fraction of the price of its spa equivalent.

Here are some B&A pictures:

Skin lightening with the NowMi treatment
After 6 weekly NowMi treatments. The skin is significantly lighter due to the whitening action of vitamin C

 

The NowMi treatment effectively treats acne
A significant decrease in skin pigmentation and acne scars following the NowMi treatment

 

Before the NowMi treatment

An image that shows a woman's face following 6 weeks of treatment with the NowMi device. The image shows a reduction in fine lines, brown spots and improved appearance of the skin.
After 6 weekly NowMi treatments. A reduction in fine lines, brown spots and improved appearance of the skin.

 

For more results visit: https://nowmi.com/results/

Conclusion:

Facial skin rejuvenation is one of the most sought-after aesthetic treatments.  A wide variety of treatment alternatives exist- from surgical intervention to non-surgical treatments.  The NowMi treatment offers an effective home-based solution that rejuvenates the skin and slows down the signs of aging.

 

Facial Skin Smoothness

Posted on by zion azar

NowMi-PRO oxygenation

Facial skin smoothness has a psychological impact on the way people perceive us.  Clinical studies [1–2] have shown that people make character extrapolations based on the appearance of facial skin smoothness. Specifically, it affects evaluations of trustworthiness, competence, attractiveness and health. These psychological interpretations guide social attitudes for acceptance or avoidance of other people.

 

Why does our facial skin lose its smoothness?

Young children have healthy, soft and smooth skin. However, over the years, exposure of the skin to the sun, pollution and stress influence the appearance of our skin. It becomes rougher, wrinkled and it slowly sags. In addition, with age, the hormonal changes cause an overall loss of facial skin smoothness, and we produce less collagen and elastin – the proteins that prevent facial skin aging. Hence there is a constant need for home-use remedies to keep our facial skin smooth and glowing.

NowMi PRO: A complete facial solution

The key to smooth and glowing facial skin is prevention and active treatments. Prevention includes: avoiding exposure to the sun and using sun screen, constantly hydrating the skin from within by drinking water and maintaining a healthy diet.

The most important active treatments are: daily facial cleansing and weekly mild skin exfoliation. These two actions remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface which allows the light to reflect from our skin.  As a result, the skin looks more youthful and glows.

The NowMi Pro treatment performs both actions.  In addition, it infuses the skin with vitamins and minerals that help it look soft and smooth. For a full description of the NowMi PRO treatment please click here.

Facial skin smoothness: clinical results with NowMi PRO

A clinical test that evaluated the efficacy of the NowMi PRO facial skin smoothness treatment was conducted by a third party GLP certified laboratory at the end of 2018. The test was carried out on a panel of 10 women, 8 with normal skin and 2 with sensitive skin.  The women were aged 32.8±4.4 years.

The treatment protocol included six weeks of daily facial cleansing at night before going to bed with the NowMi PRO sonic device and the NowMi facial cleansing gel; and six facial rejuvenation treatments carried out once a week with NowMi PRO sonic device that uses the vitamin C effervescent tablet and the NowMi lubricant gel.

Objective measurements of skin smoothness were performed using a Canfield’s VISIA imaging system before starting the treatments (baseline), at the end of 3rd weekly treatment and at the end of 6th weekly treatment. Statistically significant results (p<0.05) obtained. After 3 weeks of treatments facial skin smoothness increased by 15.1% and after 6 weeks smoothness increased by 25.9%. No adverse effect were recorded and the safety and efficacy of the NowMi PRO treatment was proven.

 

NowMi-PRO facial skin smoothness results

Superfoods for healthy skin

Posted on by abigail

We all know the phrase “You are what you eat”, and this is so true when it comes to taking care of your skin. Your skin NEEDS the vitamins and minerals that come from superfoods to keep itself looking its best and to fight free radicals that cause it to age prematurely.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where processed and junk food engulf us and is very difficult to maintain a healthy diet. These foods are high in sugar and fiber-free fats and cause the skin to look dull, dry and aged. In addition, greasy and oily foods like deep fried chicken and pizza clog the skin’s pores. Most importantly, poor nutrition weakens the immune system, making it harder for the skin to regenerate skin cells.

The good news is that superfoods ARE AVAILABLE and once you make the decision to take control of your health you can slowly but surely start to change your diet. Remember not to be too hard on yourself. Rome wasn’t built in a day and taking it one step at the time is always better than drastic measures that don’t last.

So the first thing you want to do is to put in your body vitamins and nutrients which help it keep healthy and strong. Vitamin C, E and A are a great start!

Vitamin C: Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers and more. Vitamin C is a powerful anti-oxidant and an ascorbic acid that plays a critical role in the formation of collagen. Collagen is responsible for the elasticity of the skin and replaces dead skin cells. Once you increase your intake of vitamin C, your body will be able to more easily produce new collagen which will slow down the signs of aging.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is available in almonds, spinach, sweet potatoes, avocados etc. The vitamin is an effective anti-oxidant that rejuvenates the skin. It is also effective in treating age spots and other pigmentation concerns such as dark circles under the eyes.

Vitamin A: Beef liver, carrots, kale and spinach contain high levels of vitamin A. Vitamin A stimulates the growth of skin cells and rejuvenates it by balancing sebum production. Sebum is a natural oil produced by the skin. If the production is unbalanced, this can result in dry or oily skin, acne and premature aging.

Here is a select list of superfoods for you to discover. There are of course many more. Make sure to explore your options and make your adventure of healthy eating a tasty and enjoyable one.

Avocados: Avocados are known to be great for the skin- they are high in poly- and monounsaturated fatty acids such as omega 9’s which help the skin regenerate damaged skin cells, reduce redness and help it look firm and fresh. The omega 9s are especially important because they keep the top layer of your skin- the epidermal layer- moisturized and hydrated. Avocados are also rich in antioxidant carotenoids that fight free radicals. This helps reduce wrinkles and slow down the signs of aging. You can throw an avocado into any salad and totally upgrade it. It also tastes great on a piece of bread with some lemon.

Turmeric: Turmeric is a wonderful spice that you can easily add to your dishes. Try it in soups, vegetable stews and sauces. Turmeric is fabulous for the skin since it has superior anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation makes the skin look puffy and tired and in the long term leads to wrinkles and rapid aging. Turmeric will help you keep your skin looking rejuvenated and help fight against more serious inflammatory skin problems such as rosacea and eczema.

Lemon: My personal favorite- lemon- can be used in so many ways. A delicious tea, a cold drink and of course salad dressing (with some olive oil and salt). Lemon is great for the skin. It is rich in vitamin C which protects against free radicals and also helps the body to produce collagen and elastin (the building blocks of the skin which bind skin cells together yielding firmer and younger looking skin). Another huge advantage of lemons is that they help alkalize the blood and balance our pH. Most of us suffer from over an acidic pH because of our consumption of coffee, alcohol and processed foods. When our pH levels aren’t balanced, the skin becomes very sensitive, dry and prone to irritation.

Lentils: Lentils are a great source of protein, iron, zinc and biotin which increase the elasticity and strength of the skin and helps the body slow down the signs of aging. One cup of cooked lentils has only 230 calories and is incredibly filling. You can make delicious lentil soups or add them to rice or salads… the choices are endless.

Black beans: In just one cup of black beans you can get nearly 50% of your daily value for fiber, 30% of your daily value for protein and 20% of your daily value of iron. That is a great score for one of the most affordable superfood options out there. The beans are a starch, which makes them a wonderful source of healthy carbohydrates that will help you to boost the health of your skin.

There are of course many more superfoods and you can begin the wonderful journey of exploring them. You will see, your body and your skin will thank you.

Skin aging and free radicals

Posted on by abigail

Aging is an inevitable fact of life and we all get older every day. However, thanks to improvement in health care and nutrition, the average life expectancy has increased dramatically.

According to data from the US Social Security, a man reaching age 65 today can expect to live, on average, until age 84.3 and a woman turning age 65 today can expect to live, on average, until age 86.6.

Nevertheless, it is not age itself that bothers us, but the visible signs of aging that can make us feel old despite the fact that we feel young and vital. The health and look of our skin – whether on our face or on our body – plays a major part in how old we feel, and is seen as the most common indicator to others of our age.

Many things cause our skin to age. Our genes largely control the aging process and the visible signs on our skin. With time, we all get visible lines on our face. It is natural for our face to lose some of its youthfullness. We notice our skin becoming thinner and drier. This is called “intrinsic aging” and there is nothing that we can do about it. On the other hand “extrinsic aging” which depends on our environment and lifestyle choices can cause our skin to age prematurely. By taking some preventive actions, we can slow the effects that this type of aging has on our skin.

Some dermatologists suggest that as much as 80% of complications associated with skin aging are the result of sun exposure. Regardless of the precise percentage, if you are looking for proof of the effects of sun, simply compare the skin on your face and back of hands with the skin on a part of your body not often exposed to the sun.

UV rays emitted by the sun create free radicals that damage the skin’s cell and destroy the collagen and elastin in the dermis, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin. UV rays also act as an accelerator for the production of skin pigment (melanin), resulting in the appearance of sun spots or age spots.

What are Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress?

The definition of free radicals according to Webster’s new College Dictionary is:
“An atom or molecule having at least one unpaired electron: free radicals are usually very reactive and unstable, and can damage healthy body cells “.

One group of free radicals which is a byproduct of mitochondrial oxygen metabolism processes is Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). The ROS group always contains Oxygen or Per Oxides and is highly unstable. ROS can also be generated as a result of ionizing radiation such as UV radiation.

The body deals with the free radicals, more specifically ROS, via specific enzymes that break them down or neutralize them or through antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. Antioxidants prevent oxidative reactions, often by scavenging ROS before they can damage cells.
Normally, the body can handle ROS, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if the ROS production becomes excessive, damage can occur which is labeled “Oxidative Stress”.

Of particular importance is that ROS damage accumulates with age. This can be as a result of increased ROS production combined with a decrease in cellular antioxidant activity. Exposure to UV, stress, smoking and alcohol can increase ROS levels in the skin. The free radicals will alter the structure of our proteins, therefore damaging the collagen and weakening cellular structure.

How to reduce the effect of free radicals on the skin?

The best way is prevention: first, avoid UV damage by limiting exposure to sunlight during peak hours. In addition, always apply sunscreen when going out in the sun. It is also important to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

The NowmMi treatment can also help you to reduce the effects of free radicals. A weekly treatment can help you to dramatically boost the amount of vitamin C and E antioxidants in your skin and protect against extrinsic aging.

How vitamin C can help your skin

Posted on by abigail

If you don’t already know it, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has been scientifically proven as a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-aging agent. This is fabulous news since we can all get our hands on some vit C!

Here are some of the top advantage of this wonder vitamins for skin:
1. Vitamin C replenishes and plumps up the epidermis: The epidermis is the outermost layer of cells in the facial skin and it contains high concentrations of vitamin C. When the skin is exposed to the sun’s UV rays, the rays reduce the amount of vit C in the skin. Thus, with age, the amount of ascorbic acid in the skin significantly declines- an elderly person has about 70% less vitamin C in their skin compared to a teenager.
2. Vitamin C limits damage caused by UV rays: Vit C is a powerful antioxidant and as such it protects the facial skin against sun exposure. The UV rays can cause the formation of free-radicals in the facial skin such as superoxide ion, peroxide and singlet oxygen, which damage and prematurely age the facial skin. Vitamin C protects the skin from these harmful free-radicals by sequentially donating electrons that neutralize the free radicals and helps the facial skin maintain its youthful appearance.
3. Vitamin C increases the production of collagen: Collagen is the protein in the skin that helps it maintain its firmness and youthful appearance. Ascorbic acid is essential for collagen biosynthesis. It has been shown to increase collagen synthesis and serves as a co-factor for the prolysyl and lysyl hydroxylase enzymes which are responsible for stabilizing and cross-linking the collagen molecules. As a result, the Vitamin C helps the facial skin to repair and rejuvenate itself.
4. Vitamin C helps in wound healing: The body uses Vit C to replace damaged skin tissue with scar tissue. This helps the wounds to heal properly.

Here are a few other interesting facts about Vitamin C:
1. Vitamin C combined with vitamin E is highly effective: Research has shown that topically applied combinations of vit C and vit E are four fold more effective in preventing photodamage.
2. A high quality vitamin C ingredient oxidizes quickly: The ascorbic acid used in topical solutions isn’t stable. As a result, as soon as it is exposed to light, heat or air, the quality of the vitamin C begins to degrade.
3. Exfoliation increases the absorption of the vit C: Prior to topically applying vitamin C, it is best to exfoliate the facial skin. This ensures that dead skin and dirt don’t hinder the penetration of the vitamin and it is best absorbed by the facial skin.

The NowMi Treatment is the best way to give your facial skin the vitamin C fix it needs:
Unlike any other product on the market, the ascorbic acid used in the NowMi treatment is contained in a sealed packet until use. The packet protects it from light, air or moisture. This ensures that the purest level of vit C is used. Also, during treatment, the outermost layer of the skin is exfoliated to ensure the optimal penetration of the vitamins for skin. Finally, the vitamin C is combined with Vitamin E and Hyaluronic acid to deliver the best skin rejuvenation results.

How pollution ages the skin

Posted on by abigail

We live in a world where we all suffer from pollution – from smog, car exhaust, industrial processes and more. Everyone is affected- not only those who live in metropolitan areas. According to a recent report by the World Health Organization, over 80% of the global population breathes polluted air that exceeds the recommended level1. Aside from better known health concerns, the pollution takes a serious tole on our skin and causes it to age prematurely.

Pollution affects people of all ages and skin types. The facial skin is mostly damaged by ground level ozone and particulate matter (PM). Particulate matter refers to pollution in the form of extremely small particles that are up to 20 times smaller than our pores. The PM’s easily penetrate the facial skin’s surface and deplete it of essential proteins. As a result, the facial skin is damaged and the aging process is expedited. The most common effects on facial skin are:
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven facial skin tone
• Dehydrated facial skin
• Acne
• Skin rashes

The longer we are exposed to pollution, the more the damage increases, and the less the facial skin can protect itself.

Pollution isn’t just outdoors. The US Environment Protection Agency recently published a report that revealed that levels of indoor air pollutants can be 2-5 times higher than levels found outdoors2. Examples of pollutants include household chemicals and creosote from fireplaces and stoves.

Since we can’t all withdraw to a secluded island in the Caribbeans, there are a few things we can do to help our skin. First of all, we must clean our facial skin well. Soap and scrubs are effective but can’t really remove the PMs. One of the best solutions is facial skin exfoliation. The NowMi enables you to exfoliate the skin in 5 minutes and remove the outermost layer of the skin. Second, you need to infuse your skin with anti-oxidants to help it combat the negative effects of pollution. Here again the NowMi treatment comes to the rescue and infuses your skin with Vitamin C and E, powerful antioxidants which help the skin combat free radicals.

References:
1. https://qz.com/682942/who-report-people-in-80-of-reporting-cities-are-breathing-harmful-air
2. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality