Shiny, moist and smooth hair emanates good health. Conversely, dry, dull and brittle hair might signify potential nutritional deficiencies. Your hair is the fastest growing tissue in the human body, growing at a rate of one-hal...
The inflamed blemishes that come with acne can leave marks well after the breakout has ended. Acne vulgaris, the most common form of acne, often leaves depressed scars or discolorations that last for life. Because acne affects ...
Most women develop cellulite. It’s a cruel and unfair fact of life. As you gain weight, it often accumulates along the hips, thighs and buttocks, where the fat distribution is much closer to the skin. This places pressure...
Skin redness occurs for various reasons, including disease, allergic reactions, burns, inflammation, and conditions such as rosacea. Many times there is no cure for skin redness, and you should consult a dermatologist if your ...
Although you may call them a loofah sponge, these long, fibrous bath accessories come from a vegetable source and not a sea creature. The luffa plant, a relative of the cucumber, produces large gourds that leave a durable netwo...
Keloids are benign, or non-invasive, growths that arise from scar tissue. They can occur after any skin injury, including cuts, ear piercings, surgery and even acne. Your body uses chemicals, called "growth factors," ...
A stoma is a surgically created opening that brings a portion of your small or large intestine through the abdominal wall. A bag is attached to the opening and worn outside your body, where it collects waste and is emptied as n...
Dealing with peer pressure, maintaining your grades, participating in sports, clubs and music groups, and working after-school jobs will leave you feeling exhausted. Excessive stress is unhealthful, so don't simply live with it...
Arginine is an amino acid synthesized by your body and naturally found in a variety of foods. Arginine is required for many biochemical processes related to cardiovascular health and wound healing. For example, arginine is need...
Acne is a common skin complaint that usually impacts teenage life, but can also flare up in your 20s or 30s and at other ages. Although this skin condition can be physically, mentally and emotionally challenging, acne is very c...
Many people experience dry, cracking skin on their feet, but painful or inflamed cracks may rightfully cause concern. Deep cracks on the heel, called heel fissures, can lead to further complications. Cracks or fissures between ...
Nutrition plays a role in how your mind and body functions as well as how you look. The most visible sign of how well you feed your body is healthy, glowing skin. While consuming a healthy diet improves how your pores work, it ...
The term TMJ is an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint, the joint that connects your jaw to the front wall of your ear canal. People commonly use the term TMJ to describe TMJ syndrome, a temporary but painful disorder that...
Eating an occasional cup of yogurt isn't going to make your hair grow at twice its normal rate, but eating yogurt regularly may help you keep your hair strong and healthy. In addition to giving slow-growing hair a boost, yogurt...
If you develop a bump at the site of a body piercing, draining it should never be a "do-it-yourself" endeavor. A bump, especially if the site turns red, swollen or painful, or drains pus, could indicate a staphylococc...
Chalazion is the term for a lump, or raised area, on the eyelid, that occurs due to a blocked meibomian, or eyelid gland. A hordeolum, or stye, is the name given during the initial or acute phase of the possibly infected gland,...
Pretty knees are essential for women who wish to show off their legs. Unfortunately, fat around the knees can ruin your entire look in a short skirt or dress. While you can't target just one area for fat loss, you can tone up t...
The nutrient calcium pantothenate, also called vitamin B-5 or pantothenic acid, plays a role in different aspects of your health. Many foods contain calcium pantothenate, making a deficiency rare in most people. However, a low ...
Protein is a fundamental component of your diet; it is in every cell in your body and is responsible for cell repair. It is no surprise that protein is essential to the health of your hair, which is made up of the protein kerat...
Pregnancy can be a physically uncomfortable time for women, and one of the main reasons is due to excessive sweating. Excessive sweating during pregnancy has many causes, but changes in hormone levels, glandular function and bo...
A natural chemical found in Gouda and other aged cheeses causes allergies in some people. Food allergies often trigger hives -- a red, itchy skin rash. Hives, especially in adults, are a common allergic reaction to certain trig...
Large pores may be a concern for many men and women. Excess oil production, dirt buildup and bacteria growth can cause your pores to expand. Other causes for enlarged pores include genetics, aging and diet. Applying certain v...
A scar is a permanent mark on your skin that results from an injury that breaks the skin. Over time, scars fade, but most are visible forever. Proper care of the area is an important way to promote healing and helps minimize th...
Erythromycin is a prescription antibiotic, often used as a treatment for bacterial infections. Dentists also prescribe this medication to help their patients avoid infections that might result from dental procedures. Rosacea an...
No lotions or creams permanently stop hair growth; however, they can significantly decrease the frequency that you need to shave or eliminate shaving completely. Consistent use of one of these kinds of lotions can keep your leg...
Accutane is a type of acne medication that is typically consumed in gelatin capsules. Like many acne medications, Accutane comes with a long list of side effects that includes digestive symptoms, such as vomiting and nausea. Wh...
Food allergies are widely misunderstood. Approximately 25 percent of adults believe that they have food allergies, while in reality only 2 percent of adults actually have professionally diagnosed food allergies, according to th...
Diet's role in acne has long been dismissed, but beliefs are changing, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. The college states that people in remote jungle tribes who live off the land and do not eat a ...
An arid environment, temperature extremes or overexposure to the sun can cause dry, chapped lips. While lip balms and oils provide a protective barrier to keep moisture from evaporating and leaving your lips dry, these products...
Sunscreen can protect you from damage to your skin. Although you do need some sunlight for overall health, too much can cause problems. The sun’s ultraviolet rays darken the melanin in your skin to produce a tan, but exce...
Skin redness could be the result of a disease, disorder or allergic reaction; it could also be due to scars, burns or an inflammation. In some cases, nutrients and substances in certain fruits may help reduce the appearance of ...
Sodium bicarbonate, commonly referred to as baking soda, is commonly used to treat wounds at all stages of healing because of its disinfectant properties. Baking soda can help remove hardened scabs, prevent scars from forming a...
The lymph system runs through the human body as a network and has a variety of different functions. It's primary function is to serve the body's immune system, creating lymphocytes, or disease-fighting cells to support immunity...
Ingrown nails are a common problem, especially for the toes, and often a result of poorly fitting footwear or poor trimming technique. Ingrown nails damage surrounding tissue and lead to infection, inflammation and pain. Baking...
The buoyancy of saltwater makes swimming in the ocean faster and less strenuous compared to swimming in fresh water, but the currents and waves can really slow you down -- unless you use them to your advantage. By riding the wa...
Straw set curls are a tight version of corkscrew curls, popular in the mid-20th century. The straw set method of curling hair is used for naturally curly hair, such as black hair, as well as straight or relaxed hair. Three step...
Although both have health benefits, lounging in the sauna and taking part in a cardio workout produce very different results. Cardiovascular activities, such as an aerobics class, brisk walking or lap swimming, gets your heart ...
Your immune system protects you against illness, fighting off bacteria and viruses. However, sometimes your immune system works with unintended consequences. This is the case when your immune system attacks nonthreatening hair ...
Baby powder, also referred to as talcum powder if talc is the primary ingredient, is traditionally used to prevent diaper rash and as a deodorant for babies. Despite this, baby powder is often applied to the skin because of its...
Hair loss has a variety of causes including genetics, drug interactions, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid problems, poor circulation, hormones and aging. Increasing your overall health and nutrition can reduce the rate of hair...
The health of your skin depends somewhat on the foods that you eat and the foods that you don't eat. The Mayo Clinic website notes that filling up on antioxidant-rich foods might help protect your skin, but eating unhealthy foo...
The world's oceans are filled with a remarkable variety of edible creatures. Many of them, including clams and mussels, are easily harvested on foot at low tide. Barnacles are among the less-common shellfish harvested this way....
A vigorous workout can leave you drenched with sweat from head to toe. But on a day when you don't have the time or the capabilities to shower and wash your hair after a workout, you may be hesitant to exercise. Don't let the f...
Gelatin, also known as hydrolyzed collagen protein or collagen hydrolysate, is a concentrated protein derived primarily from animal bones and hides. It's best known as the primary ingredient in flavored jelly powders, but it ha...
Pores are small passageways through which hair reaches the surface of your skin. The small openings also have additional roles that contribute to your health: Pores act as ducts, allowing oil to travel from under-the-skin gland...
Beautiful skin is a sign of good health and well-being. Keeping your skin healthy starts with keeping your circulatory system healthy. The blood carries toxins, chemicals, pollutants and other noxious agents throughout your bod...
Testosterone is a hormone that plays a significant role in a number of male characteristics. Testosterone levels in men affect your hair growth patterns, sex drive and prostate health. Testosterone also helps build muscles, str...
Carbohydrates are a class of nutrient that is excluded from many popular diets, including the Atkins and South Beach diets. These diets are somewhat controversial because of the potentially harmful side effects and because the ...
Most rock climbers are familiar with the dangers that can come from falling or slipping while scaling a wall or the face of a mountain. Less dramatic, but just as important, is the damage that the sport can do to a climber's fe...
By using some common household ingredients, you can create a natural, homemade remedy to care for your hair. Some ingredients, such as olive oil, can help to moisturize your hair. Your hair is made up primarily of protein, so f...
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the average person has 100,000 hairs on their head and loses about 100 hairs daily. Hair loss can quickly become a concern, however, when that rate of loss increases and b...
If you see brown spots on your face after drinking liquor, you may have one of a few different conditions. Spots due to flushing or bruising occur if you have a low tolerance for alcohol, cannot process alcohol properly or drin...
Living in the tropics saves you from the bitter cold and blustery winds, but the scorching sun and heat can also make your lips flaky, chapped and sore. Unlike other areas of your skin, your lips have no oil glands to seal in m...
Avoiding dull skin requires comprehensive skin care. It means paying attention to daily cleansing and moisturizing, getting enough exercise and consuming adequate fluids and nutrition. Vitamins A and C and the B-vitamins are we...
A stair-climbing training regime is a great way to improve your cardiovascular fitness, but without strong legs, you may find this type of training too intense. Stair climbing primarily targets the muscles of the lower body -- ...
What you eat can affect how quickly you heal from infections and other health problems, and the effect isn’t always positive. What you eat can also make things worse, at least internally. If you have a lingering external ...
In our modern, fast-paced world, it can be hard to eat right and get the proper amount of sleep, which is one reason why energy drinks have become so popular. Most, if not all, of the drinks contain some form of caffeine, which...
The average person loses about 50 to 100 hairs a day. This may sound like an awful lot, but other hairs almost immediately replace those lost, so they won’t likely be missed. Shedding more than this amount, however, can l...
Indian ginseng, also called ashwagandha, is a common herbal treatment in Eastern religions and cultures. It has made its way into Western cultures and is available as a dietary supplement. One reason certain people take Indian ...
Red, irritated skin is a problem for as many as half of all women, estimates dermatologist David Bank in "Marie Claire" magazine. While some irritation can be caused by environmental factors like pollution or underlyi...
Onion extract is formed by breaking down the flesh of an onion. The resulting substance appears in some types of skin medications and lotions to treat and reduce the appearance of acne and scars. Creating onion extract is simpl...
Ulcers, callouses and simple skin irritations can be caused by repetitive stress placed on your heels while walking or running. The harsh impact of concrete against your feet for extended periods of time often can cause rupture...
Dried tomatoes are tasty snacks and add flavor and color to casseroles, soups and pastas. While you can purchase dried tomatoes from stores, making your own is often more cost-effective. Canned tomatoes dehydrate nearly as well...
Many children, as well as adults, have nervous habits that can cause physical harm. Deliberate cheek or tongue biting falls into this category. There may be a physical cause for this or it simply may be a nervous habit. In some...
Pore strips are a useful way to remove dirt and oil from your skin. You can purchase one of several commercially-made pore strips, or make your own at home using milk and unflavored gelatin. Homemade pore strips are effective a...
Body piercing involves puncturing a part of your body and inserting jewelry. This process causes minor trauma to your skin and surrounding tissues, which need time to heal. When your skin is punctured, it triggers inflammation,...
Natural hair is hair that is not treated with straightening, relaxing or color treatments. While avoiding these treatments is healthier for your hair, it also can result in hair that looks drier. A workout is especially likely ...
Herbal teas usually contain natural ingredients. Many herbal teas remain caffeine-free because they are made from natural herbs and roots. However, many medications, including the contraceptive Yaz, may interact with ingredient...
Pain in the muscles and tissues deeper in your body can be frustrating because simple stretching doesn't always relieve it. In some cases, performing specific exercises can help relieve the pain, depending on the cause of the u...
Extremely dry skin can cause the skin on the bottom of your feet to slough, or peel off. Along with being a bit unsightly, if it's severe, sloughing skin on your feet can cause you some discomfort while standing or walking. Dry...
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Acne often includes symptoms such as clogged pores, inflammation and pimples. In some cases, acne can be painf...
Parsley oil and geranium oil may provide you with some relief from broken capillaries, but academic research does not support the claim. Most evidence is anecdotal in nature. One problem with researching the oils is that produc...
Skin rashes can occur for a wide range of reasons, many of which may require medical help to diagnose. When accompanied by other symptoms, such as dry skin and chills, the possible causes can be narrowed down, although multiple...
With the vast array of beauty and skin care products available today, it is often difficult to know exactly what to choose and what will work best for you. Face powder was a staple cosmetic in your grandmother's time, but not e...
Although there isn’t an ideal time for a breakout, pimples always seem to crop up at the most inopportune occasions. Unfortunately, medications take time to work, sometimes as much as four to eight weeks, so you’re ...
Acne is the most common skin condition affecting 17 to 45 million people in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Acne generally happens to people in their teens and 20s, but some people exp...
The constant temperature fluctuations as you move between the cold conditions outdoors and the dry heat indoors makes winter a miserable season, in terms of your skin. Exposed areas, such as your face, suffer the worst, but ski...
When you’re already battling acne, dealing with dry lips is the last thing you need. Antibiotics can be tremendously helpful in getting rid of pimples, but these medications can pose a number of side effects. It’s i...
Cranial sacral therapy, also referred to as craniosacral therapy, is an alternative method used to treat a variety of physical and mental disorders. Generally speaking, the therapy is practiced by chiropractors, massage therap...
Accutane is a prescription medication used to treat severe cases of acne. Unlike some acne medications, Accutane does not appear to interact with caffeine, and both substances can generally be taken concurrently. For best resul...
A foot soak may relieve sore, tired feet, but it can also help relieve foot problems like fungus. A regular foot bath of hot water may relax your feet, and additives like essential oils can enhance the experience and expand upo...
Bleeding under the skin can occur in a variety of ways, forming either tiny red dots called petechiae or larger flat areas that turn purple, called purpura. When bleeding under the skin is excessive, the large area of bruised s...
One of the benefits of growing older is supposed to be leaving the greasy skin and pimples of your youth behind, but this isn’t the case for everyone. If your face is suddenly turning into an oil slick, have no fear. A fe...
Acne can be embarrassing for anyone, but when you develop pimples underneath your mustache, the problem can be uncomfortable as well. Be assured that you’re not alone; 80 percent of all people ages 11 to 30 deal with acne...
Your skin relies on pigmentation as a form of protection from the elements. Brown pigment produced by your skin cells allows your skin to reflect harmful ultraviolet rays to reduce damage to your skin cells. However, patches of...
Shamanic bodywork training is not going to bulk up your biceps or burn off unwanted calories. Rather, it is a form of holistic healing that works on multiple levels. Founded by Wayne Kealohi Powell in 1977, shamanic bodywork is...
Sand burr, an unwelcome intruder in lawns and beaches throughout the Southern United States, is an annual grass that reproduces by burrs, or stickers. The burrs attach themselves to shoelaces, clothing, pet fur and even tires,...
Hair loss is something your teen may associate with old age, but certain conditions or lifestyle habits may cause a teenager to lose her hair. KidsHealth notes that most instances of teen hair loss are temporary, but it may cau...
If you suffer from acne, you might have exhausted over-the-counter treatments and don't want to try prescription medications. Acne is common in the teen years and affects around 85 percent of people at some time in their lives,...
Acne is caused by clogged pores, usually on your face, neck, chest or back. These areas are more prone to developing acne because they have the largest oil glands, according to Ethel Sloane, author of "Biology of Women.&qu...
Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, is an essential nutrient that is found in plants as well as meats. This vitamin helps facilitate the breakdown of carbohydrates and fats in the body. Pantothenic acid does not have any medical ...
A woman’s physical beauty depends on many attributes, including her vitality and the health of her skin and hair. Beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and ages, but unhealthy living and excessive stress takes its toll on the...
Dark circles under your eyes significantly contribute to how other people perceive your health and age. Contrary to popular belief, dark circles usually are not a sign of exhaustion or serious illness, although they can make yo...
Bare Escentuals, or Bare Minerals makeup has been advertised for years as being so natural and pure, you can sleep in it without any concerns. Manufacturers of the products tout its high quality ingredients, lack of fragrances,...
Exercise doesn’t have to be conducted on your own or at breakneck speed. Various forms of movement are good for the heart, lungs, muscles and mind. Exercise with a buddy or group not only makes the activity pass more qui...
Certain health remedies rely on scientific research and medical studies, while others lack credible backing to support health claims. Human growth hormone (HGH) is a subject of various claims, including those that suggest it he...
Because your ear protects the mechanisms by which you hear, any wound or sore can be cause for concern, especially when it does not heal. A sore on the tip of the ear is not always cause for concern, but can be disturbed more t...
After using products to chemically relax your hair, you'd think it would be easy to transition back to your hair's natural state. However, switching from relaxed to natural hair is not a simple process. If you decide against si...
Ingrown toenails often are associated with athletes or people who wear tight shoes, but they actually can affect anyone with toenails. An ingrown toenail causes pain, swelling and in some cases infection, so it should be treat...
The average scalp has about 100,000 hairs, and most people lose about 100 hairs each day, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Alopecia is the thinning or complete loss of hair that occu...
Having chapped lips may stem from your diet or beverages you consume. You might notice a severely dry upper lip shortly after enjoying your morning brew or within hours of eating a chocolate bar. If you think a specific food or...
Body piercing has become popular in the last decade, going far beyond simple ear piercing. Both men and women are now piercing their noses, tongues, ears, eyebrows, nipples, navels and their genitals. Unfortunately, various med...
Developing a boil can be a painful and embarrassing experience, depending on its location. Although diluted Castile soap may be effective at preventing the bacteria that cause some boils, MedlinePlus considers antibacterial soa...
Liu Wen is the first Asian to model for Victoria's Secret and one of the faces of the Estee Lauder beauty and cosmetics brand. While there is not a specific Liu Wen diet that is marketed as a weight loss tool, the model does ea...
Many people like to keep hand sanitizer nearby to use when soap and water are not readily available. Sanitizers are often touted as a way not only to clean hands that are lightly soiled, but also as a method to kill germs. You ...
Shaving your legs, armpits and bikini area can be time consuming, and the results only last for a day or two. Waxing has more long-term effects, but it does not prevent your hair from growing back within a few weeks. The good n...
Wrinkles are common as you age, but you are probably like most of the population and want to know how to reduce their appearance and prevent them from returning. Genetics and lifetime sun exposure are two precursors to developi...
Sports-related acne, also called acne mechanica, tends to occur in areas covered by sports equipment. It is most common in people who suffer from sandpaper acne or non-facial acne and among soldiers stationed in the tropics. Me...
Babassu butter or Babassu oil can be found in a variety of skin and hair care products such as soap, moisturizer and conditioner. Babassu butter is suggested to nourish the hair and smooth the skin because of its protective qua...
Acne can be embarrassing and difficult to get rid of. If you have tried every remedy you can think of to no avail, you may be wondering if you will ever find a way to eliminate the blemishes from your skin. Home remedies can be...
Enlarged pores are a common skin issue. Your nose and cheeks are the most typical areas of your face affected. Large pores are frustrating because they generally dull your complexion. Choosing the right foundation for large por...
Cellulitis is formally an infectious process in the deep layers of the skin. A virus or, more commonly, a bacterium such as Staphylococcus aureus can get into the skin because of irritation caused by an allergic reaction. An ea...
Thus, they often struggle more with wrinkles. Not to worry; with the right anti-wrinkle and toning cream -- whether store-bought or put together in your kitchen -- you can be beautiful at any age.
Translucent soap is a mild bar soap designed to minimize skin irritation. Translucent soap is also sometimes called transparent soap. It is usually considered a safe alternative for those who react to the ingredients in opaque ...
When a toddler starts coughing, it can be a source of concern for parents. When other symptoms are also present -- such as peeling skin on the fingers and toes -- it could indicate a more serious illness than a cold. However, t...
Accutane is a medication doctors prescribe for certain skin conditions, but the product has dangerous side effects. A healthy diet might improve your health. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommends eating nutrient-dense foods an...
If you develop acne every time you experience night sweats, talk with your doctor. Excessive sweating in your sleep may clog your pores, which can increase your risk of developing acne. Not all cases of acne are related to nigh...
Simply Smooth Keratin Treatment is manufactured by Simply Smooth, a New Zealand-based family business. All company products are approved by Intertek, a global testing agency that certifies cosmetic products and other consumer g...
Frequent scratching by your boxer may indicate more than a simple flea problem. Itchy skin is a symptom of allergies, skin conditions and even an autoimmune disease, which is a condition characterized by the body attacking its ...
Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, is a natural metabolite of the male sex hormone testosterone. DHT occurs naturally in both men and women, since both genders have testosterone, although in sharply varying amounts. DHT plays a signi...
Strong abdominal muscles can support a wide range of physical activity and may also reduce your risk of experiencing lower-back pain. If you are looking beyond exercise for a way to strengthen your abdominal muscles, adding her...
Doxycycline monohydrate is a type of medication used to treat a variety of skin, respiratory and bacterial infections. Unlike creatine, which is naturally occurring in the body, doxycycline monohydrate is a synthetic medicine t...
Age spots -- flat brown, gray or black spots -- vary in size and shape but don’t change day to day. If you have flat, irregularly shaped black or brown spots that are spreading, see a doctor as quickly as possible. You co...
If you experience nose allergies, you know how uncomfortable you can get when your allergy is triggered. A common symptom of nose allergies is dry, iritated skin from blowing your nose often. You may be wondering if Chapstick w...
Garnier Nutrisse, a large cosmetic manufacturer, produces a complete line of hair care products. Although many of Garnier's products, including the fortified shampoos and conditioners, contain fruit oils, only the Nutrisse Nour...
Contact dermatitis is characterized by inflammation of the skin due to external skin contact with an irritating substance such as dish soap. Contact dermatitis is divided into two types: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic...
Particles from plants make useful additions as culinary ingredients and medicinal herbs. Many of these same vegetative substances also provide benefits as cosmetic additives in lotions, shampoos and conditioners. Biota is just ...
Your hair color exists because of the presence of melanin, a pigment produced by the amino acid tyrosine. Your body usually can derive tyrosine from another amino acid called phenylalanine, but if you lack the latter, you must ...
Ongoing medical research uses diverse substances, including plant compounds, to examine the potential benefits that certain properties may have on various forms of cancers, such as brain tumors. Although aloe vera juice shows s...
Cellulite occurs when small pockets of body fat accumulate just underneath the surface of the skin. As the fat accumulates in these pockets, it presses against the connective tissues that hold the skin together, which produces ...
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that are located on the scapula, or shoulder blade. The subscapularis is at the front of scapula and is responsible for internal rotation of the arm. The supraspinatus is located at t...
An unusual darkening of your skin can have several possible causes. Sun exposure, of course, is the most common such cause, but if you are certain that simple tanning is not responsible for your skin changes, you should take th...
A keratin hair treatment, also known as a Brazilian treatment or Brazilian blowout, is a styling process designed to leave hair straighter, less tangled and less frizzy. But keratin does not have the same effect on all varietie...
As you age, your face requires different treatment than it did when you were younger. In your 70s, the visible signs of aging — wrinkles, fine lines and age spots — as well as the the underlying effects -- loss of b...
Even if you made it through your teen years pimple-free, acne can pop up at any time. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, 1 in 5 people between the ages of 25 and 44 experience mild or moderate acne. In man...
For most people, acne is a temporary condition that occurs in the teen years and then disappears except for the occasional pimple during adulthood. A medical condition called hyperhidrosis, which causes excessive sweating, can ...
Very dry skin is often blamed on hot, dry climates or cold, winter weather, but it can be a problem even in humid climates. Although extremely dry skin is rarely a serious medical condition, it is uncomfortable and often causes...
The ribs are a series of bones that protect the vital organs in the thorax such as the heart and lungs. Like all bones, the ribs begin to form in the developing embryo, but they continue to grow and develop throughout childhood...
A ripped fingernail is painful. This problem occurs for many reasons, such as when you hit or jam your finger. If you have long nails, they might catch on something, causing trauma to the fingernail and nail bed. Because nails ...
Competing in the sport of boxing puts you at risk for several potential health problems, including brain damage. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, it’s estimated that 15 to 40 percent of ex-b...
A chemical peel is the use of a chemical solution that burns off damaged skin cells on the face. The purpose of a chemical peel is to rejuvenate your skin, giving it a more youthful appearance. There are various types of chemic...
Hallux varus refers to an abnormal positioning of your big toe. It's a deformity that occurs most frequently following corrective bunion surgery. Normally, your big toe points straight forward, but with hallux varus, its positi...
Before you select which oil you would like to use to rejuvenate your skin, you need a basic understanding of what each one does. You can purchase both coconut oil and sesame oil from most natural foods grocers, vitamin shops an...
Bioderma is a the name of a skin care product. Based in France, Bioderma offers a variety of skin care treatments for many skin types, including oily or combination skin. Oily skin can cause skin blemishes and acne by blocking ...
A steam sauna is a place to unwind, detoxify and relax tense muscles. It is also a place to indulge in hair-restoring treatments. The heat of the steam can help a mask penetrate the hair follicle and deliver strengthening ingre...
Thinning hair and hair loss affects about one-third of men and women, according to MayoClinic.com. Poor circulation in the scalp is one reason for this problem. Alternative treatments, such as hydrotherapy, help improve scalp c...
Cervical polyps are tumor-like growths found in the cervix of women. These small growths can vary in size and are usually not cancerous. However, your physician will want to remove any polyps to test for cancer. Although some a...
Anthocyanins, members of the phytochemical group known as bioflavonoids, give blueberries and other brightly colored fruits and vegetables their characteristic pigmentation. More importantly, these coloring agents possess power...
While aerobic exercise and a proper diet are the only ways to properly burn calories and reduce stomach fat, certain articles of clothing and products can help create a slimming effect. Despite this, unless you are wearing a co...
Pyotraumatic dermatitis -- better known as hot spots -- affects many breeds of dogs. These painful skin lesions tend to worsen during the summer months. Several treatments are available for hot spots, despite a lack of scientif...
The pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, controls the release of growth hormone into the body. If too much growth hormone is released, usually because of a noncancerous tumor in the pituitary, abnormal b...
Skin is the largest organ in the human body and it helps us regulate our body temperature and eliminate toxins. Our skin's pores must be clear and healthy in order to function properly. Exfoliation, or removing dead skin cells,...
Certain rashlike pigmentations on the foot are merely aesthetic concerns and pose no particular health risks. Other types of pigmentations or rashes are serious and need immediate medical attention. Do not attempt self-diagnosi...
Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that is marked by inflamed pustules or cysts. Cystic acne can be damaging both physically and mentally, as it normally strikes adolescents who are undergoing puberty. This is a particularly ...
A manicure can beautify your nails, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you are allergic to any ingredients in your nail polish. An allergy to fingernail polish is classified as contact dermatitis because it results fro...
Barrier lotions are often recommended by dermatologists for people suffering from skin allergies or other skin irritants. The lotion provides a protective barrier from potentially harmful irritants in the environment. However, ...
Makers of hair-care products market keratin formulas as a miracle cure for kinky, frizzy hair. A simple web search will bring up dozens of such products and treatments, all claiming to be able to tame your unruly curls. However...
A copper peptide is a protein compound that contains the metal alloy copper. Some foods naturally contain copper, considered one of the minerals essential for human health. Foods do not contain copper peptides since scientists ...
Lipomas are fatty, benign tumors that are sometimes visible underneath the skin. Although lipomas can be removed by excision or by liposuction, this is often not necessary and is usually done only when the patient opts for surg...
Neuropathy is the medical term for nerve damage. Peripheral neuropathy, which causes pain, numbness and tingling, can be notoriously difficult to treat. As many as 70 percent of diabetics develop peripheral neuropathy, which ca...
Acne is a painful skin condition that most adults have experienced at one time in their lives. There is no scientific evidence that acne causes numbness, or vice-versa, however. If you are experiencing numbness either in the sa...
During pregnancy you may notice a variety of changes to your skin. Some people may comment on the sudden glow on your face, a positive transformation reflecting your inner joy. Other changes, such as stretch marks, acne and var...
You may have chicken legs if you glance in the mirror and notice your legs look disproportionately skinny compared to the rest of your body. Going to the gym may get rid of your chicken legs if you include appropriate exercises...
Chakras are believed to be vascular forms of energy that run through the body and correspond to seven major organs and systems. When energy flow to an organ or system becomes impaired, the corresponding organ or system's functi...
Some people are allergic to the meat of certain mammals, such as cows, though it is rare and unusual. A beef allergy may present as raised, itchy red welts on your skin. This is known as uticaria, or hives. Because food allergi...
Keeping your liver working as it should is critical for good health. There is some controversy regarding the consumption of raw cacao and its effect on your liver, but there is no scientific proof available to suggest that caca...
Small bumps that look like pimples inside your mouth could be one of many conditions. Some of the conditions that the bumps can be include canker sores, mucous cysts, oral lichen planus and inflamed papillae. These conditions u...
Fighting the signs of aging is something of a national pasttime in the United States -- Harvard University reports that Americans spend $1.6 billion each year on anti-aging products. The answer to avoiding wrinkles may lie in y...
Retinaldehyde is a form of vitamin A useful in treating skin ailments and ensuring healthy skin. Most forms of vitamin A have a difficult time penetrating your skin, but retinaldehyde is able to reach the lower layers of you sk...
The human brain naturally produces the organic compound dimethylaminoethanol, also known by its acronym DMAE. DMAE, both in the brain and as a supplement, closely resembles the molecular structure of choline, an essential miner...
Technically called albumen, egg white is comprised of around 10 percent proteins, vitamins, trace minerals and glucose and nearly 90% water. Meant to protect the yolk, egg white also provides nutrition for the embryo as it deve...
People sneeze in response to the respiratory epithelium lining inside the nose being irritated by something usually external, such as dust particles or allergens entering the nose, or something internal, such as a respiratory i...
Americans spend more than $20 billion on dietary supplements each year, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Never self-diagnose a medical problem and take a supplement to treat it. Many...
While it is natural to lose some muscle tone and acquire a few age-related wrinkles on your cheeks and around your lips, a sunken mouth and receding jaw line is not a normal part of the aging process. Lifestyle choices such as ...
For healthy growth, eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Your body needs protein, carbohydrate and fat to grow and function. You don’t need empty-calorie foods such as sweetened soft drinks, cookies and candies. Obtain mos...
Parasites, fungi and bacteria can all cause pneumonia; viruses can cause this disease as well. It is a disease which can be especially troublesome to the elderly, to those with a weakened immune system, people with a chronic il...
The towel chinup is an effective exercise for strengthening the muscles of your back, biceps and forearms. It helps to build a strong grip, and is an excellent progression if you find regular chinups too easy. You can also use ...
Sixty-eight percent of people in the United States are overweight or obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many people are looking for a solution when diet has failed, and chromium picolinate is a ...
If you have extremely dry skin, your first response is likely to scratch. Scratching is a natural human function and can be a great relief in many situations. If you have dry skin that has been scratched or irritated previously...
Acne can manifest in a number of ways, causing extreme discomfort and anguish for those who have it. Papules and cysts are two types of inflammatory acne that can cause pain and infection when treated improperly. Understandin...
Magnesium, a mineral essential to your diet, is most prominent in the skeletal system and works with the mineral calcium to maintain bone mass. Magnesium acts as an electrically charged particle that aids in conducting nerve im...
Consuming aloe vera gel in conjunction with stomach enzymes -- also referred to as digestive enzymes -- may seem like a win-win, but significant health risks are associated with the consumption of aloe vera. You may want to pro...
If your baby suffers a bad fall or undergoes surgery, you may have concerns regarding the permanence of a scar. Speak to your pediatrician about safe treatments you can use on your baby. Treatments of scars are typically not co...
If you have ever woken up in the middle of the night sweating profusely, you have experienced a common condition called night sweats. They may occur because of a number of benign causes, and your physical activity is one factor...
Acne, long thought of as a problem exclusive to adolescents, also affects males and females of all ages. Your body produces histamine as a protective device against allergens. Although acne and skin eruptions caused by allergie...
Affecting both young and old, blackheads are clogged pores that clutter up the appearance of the skin. Though the black discoloration may look like trapped dirt, it is actually dead skin cells, excess sebum and bacteria that ha...
Your baby's immature immune system means that he is more prone to experiencing colds. The common cold is caused by a virus, so there is no medication that helps your baby to feel better quickly. While you are waiting for the co...
Obtaining a myofascial massage certification means you are certified to perform a physical therapy technique that massages and stretches connective tissues between muscles. Pain elimination, enhancing flexibility and restoring ...
Keloids and pimples both affect the appearance of your skin but are different dermatological conditions. An outbreak of pimples often is called acne, and the individual bumps might be called zits, whiteheads, blackheads or blem...
Health care workers and surgery patients who have skin reactions to surgical gloves and soap are usually allergic to the latex in the gloves and to the strong antibacterial agents used to make the soap. Skin irritations can ran...
Skincare products like RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Cream are among the popular products on the market that claim to smooth wrinkles and give you younger looking skin. An anti-wrinkle product is only as good as the active...
Acne results from numerous processes that affect oil production and skin cell turnover. As far as using diet to treat this condition, nothing has been firmly established in the way of scientific evidence, but some research sug...
While popping pimples may seem like a good way to speed up the healing process, you should resist the urge. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, popping pimples increases the risk of scarring. If you suf...
Antihistamines are designed to help block an allergic reaction whether it’s on your skin or within your body, such as your nasal cavity or sinuses. When you have an allergic reaction to something, you won’t always d...
It’s not unusual for a health condition to be related to a nutritional deficiency or overdose. However, the relation between your diet and health can get lost in translation as the information travels from the original re...
Many parents worry about their newborn’s umbilical cord stump. With some simple guidelines, you can provide adequate care for it to heal promptly. Watch for signs of infection, and learn about potential problems that may ...
Anyone, including children, can experience hair loss or alopecia. Hair growth depends on vitamins and minerals, which is why dieters who severely restrict their calories or follow fad diets may have problems with hair loss. Giv...
Acne is the most common skin condition seen in the United States, with more than 40 million Americans estimated as currently having issues with acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. However, the severity of ac...
As a young adult, you may be concerned about changes in your skin. Some of the problems you may face are common and are a result of hormonal changes in your body. Other skin changes are more serious and may be due to infectio...
If your ankles are red, blotchy and itchy -- you likely have contact dermatitis. Contact refers to your skin touching a substance or allergen, and dermatitis is the inflammatory response that occurs from touching that substanc...
