Sun Damage & Sun Protection

The sun is the source of energy that sustains life, but accumulated exposure without proper protection has negative consequences. The sun is responsible for the vast majority of visible ageing, according to new research – another reason to slather on the sun screen all year round.
The three main types of rays that damage our skin are UVA, UVB, and infrared rays, all of which have the ability to penetrate skin and cause damage to cells and DNA. On the surface, this damage manifests as fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, and discoloration, but the most dangerous consequence beneath the surface is the risk of skin cancer rays accounted for 80 % of skin ageing, including wrinkles, in a study of almost 300 women – half sun-worshippers and half shy of the sun. The study also found that a two % increase in skin damage ages a face by three years.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=O1VnRLmTppU

To adequately shield skin from the sun, sunscreen needs to be a part of every daily routine. Options include physical UV-reflecting ingredients, chemical UV-absorbing ingredients, or a combination of both, but the most important thing to look for on a label is the term "broad spectrum". This indicates full coverage from the entire spectrum of UVA and UVB radiation, whereas SPF only measures the length of time one is protected from the UVB rays responsible for sunburn.

This picture shows a long distance truck driver’s face - the side exposed to excessive sun-damage is aged and lined by comparison to the other side. 

Research has shown that sunscreen alone does not provide adequate protection from environmental damage. A key finding shows that the average consumer does not apply enough sunscreen, therefore only obtaining up to half the protection stated on the bottle. Second, sunscreens only block 55%* of the free radicals generated by UV exposure. Finally, UV filters do not provide protection from damaging infrared radiation. For broad range protection against all sources of environmental skin insults, it’s imperative to use a topical antioxidant in conjunction with a daily sunscreen. SkinCeuticals offers eight antioxidant products that have been clinically proven to provide optimal protection from the damage caused by UV rays and other environmental factors.

Repeated exposure to too much sun over a number of years can cause damage to skin. The effects of sun damage include premature skin ageing and wrinkling

* Haywood, R., et al, J Invest Dermatol 2006;121:862-868

Tan- proof that your sun damage never fades

Tan Proof that a tan never fades! Be PROUD of and PROTECT YOUR FAIR SKIN!! The ALTERNATIVE is NOT FUN!! 

Skin Ageing

The science of skincare has progressed so far we had no problems finding ingredients capable of slowing down Collagen Breakdown, Sun Damage, Oxidation, Glycation and Inflammation.

Ageing is characterised by the loss of collagen and elastic, decline in circulation, decrease in repair of damaged tissue, increase in scar tissue deposits, slowing of epidermal turnover, damage to DNA and increased MMP (enzymes that break down collagen and elastic) activity.

One of the biggest contributors to the formation of premature wrinkles is UV exposure.  Chronic UV exposure is the cause of many types of Skin Cancers and pigmentation disorders. It causes premature ageing by thinning the epidermis as well as causing breakdown of collagen, elastic and a decrease in GAG (Glycosaminoglycans) formation
.
A second major contributor is expression lines. These are wrinkles that are caused by muscle contractions (facial expressions). This leads to the compression and folding of the skin layers resulting in wrinkle formation. Initially these wrinkles only appear when the muscle contracts, however, as the skin ages these folds become more prominent and appear when the muscles are at rest.

The treatment strategy for ageing includes increasing the skin’s antioxidant and food supply, stimulation of collagen and elastin, removal of scar tissue, increasing epidermal turnover, correcting moisture and oil levels and improving the skin’s UV protection.

Collagen.
Keeping the skin firm, plump and wrinkle-free, Collagen is the principle structural protein of the skin. Like many components of the body, collagen undergoes continuous turnover, being produced and recycled on an ongoing basis throughout your life. When you are younger, your body makes more collagen than it loses, but after about the age of 40, collagen loss can accelerate, leading to a decline in the health and appearance of your skin.

Our genetic predispositions play a big role in determining both the speed of collagen production and breakdown . One in three people have a genetic variation that predisposes their skin to accelerated collagen breakdown, which results in the appearance of premature wrinkling, ageing and sagging of the skin.


Glycation.
If you're like most people, and then no one has ever told you about glycation. Affecting Collagen and Elastin fibres, glycation is now well recognised to be a leading cause of accelerated skin ageing, causing Collagen and Elastin fibres to lose their ability to function normally, glycation is heavily implicated in accelerated skin ageing. One in two people are genetically predisposed to reduced genetic protection against Glycation
Our genetic predispositions play a big role in determining serum glucose levels. Key variations in this genetic category play a key role in preventing glycation of your skin. It is responsible for controlling serum glucose levels, energy intake, and energy release. Having variations in this gene can alter your body’s ability to maintain normal glucose levels and interfere with energy metabolism, both of which lead to glycation.

Glucose is the sugar your body uses as its main source of fuel. If not metabolized properly, glucose can bind to your skin’s collagen and elastin fibres forming abnormal chemical bridges that cause tissue damage. This process, called gyration, causes your skin to become rigid and lose elasticity. Glycation also impairs your skin’s ability to regenerate, which leads to skin laxity, cracking, thinning, redness, and inability to self-repair.

Sun damage / pigmentation.
The sun’s UV rays are one of the most significant causes of premature skin aging. Your genes play an important role in determining how well your skin can naturally cope under the strains of the sun.
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun accounts for 90% of the symptoms of early skin ageing, skin damage, and skin cancer. Every time your skin is exposed to UV light, skin damage occurs. The cumulative effect of repeated sun damage causes epidermal DNA damage, persistent inflammation, and oxidative stress, negatively affecting the health and appearance of your skin.
Our genetic predispositions play an important role in determining how your skin can naturally cope under the strains of the sun. Use an enhanced skin care protection strategy such as those offered by Skinceuticals that is specially designed to provide the utmost protection for your skin.
Scientists now believe that free radicals are causal factors in nearly every known disease, from heart disease to arthritis, cancer to cataracts. In fact, free radicals are a major culprit in the aging process of the skin itself.

Antioidants
Research has shown that the amount of antioxidants in your body is directly proportional to the healthy long term appearance of your skin! Free radicals are highly reactive short lived molecules that can damage virtually any molecule in our body – including the important cellular structures found in the body’s largest organ - the skin.

Not all people have the same amount of these powerful free radical scavengers. A numbers of skin related genetic variations have been found to alter the production of antioxidant protecting molecules.
Excess inflammation is one of the most common themes in early onset of ageing.
Ever wonder why your skin becomes sensitive in the winter? Or why your skin breaks out in the heat? How about developing a skin rash or rosacea after applying perfumes or skincare? Many of these redness and sensitivity issues are instigated by your bodies’ first primal defense - inflammation.

Up to four in five people have a genetic variation that can cause an over reactive inflammation response .Your genetic predispositions play a big role in determining the supply, or the over-supply of inflammation production. Key variations tested in this category can identify numerous over-reactive inflammatory mechanisms that cause skin irritations.

Perfect skin 2015

If perfect skin is on your resolution list for 2015, then perfect skin is undoubtedly a top priority.

•Drink liquid chlorophyll. If you do not like salad or drink green juices, go to a good health store and buy liquid chlorophyll. It tastes like mint, oxygenates the skin, keeps skin clean, and works from the inside out so you see a huge difference quickly.

•Skip the coffee. Drink a green juice it will be a great replacement to your afternoon coffee and it will literally transform your skin in a matter of days. It helps oxygenate the skin and stimulates lymphatic drainage, so it's de-puffing too!

•Do all the steps. Exfoliation is important if your goal is  great skin. It's the most often-skipped step in people's home routine, but it really makes a huge difference in the way your skin looks and feels. Think of exfoliation as creating a perfect canvas for your products and makeup. You could be investing in the most expensive, amazing skin care products, but if you don't exfoliate, those ingredients won't ever penetrate to make any difference at all. Just remember nobody needs to exfoliate daily.  

• Eat more avocado. It's the best way to achieve perfectly hydrated skin from the inside out. Add it to your salad or even throw half of an avocado into your morning smoothie. Avocado supplies the skin with healthy fats and phyto-nutrients to hydrate from the inside out and bring back your glow.

•Go green. Make the switch to natural products. It's always confusing when you walk into a shop and have so many choices in terms of which direction to go with &  what you choose to  buy, They have  great  results-oriented ingredients that penetrate more readily into the skin and show a real result fast.

•Start dry brushing. A dry brush is a great pharmacy / health store beauty buy. It costs about €10 and you can get it anywhere. Dry brushing is my favourite method of body exfoliation because its multi-tasking-it's incredible as a cellulite treatment and increases elasticity. Start at the tops of the feet and brush upwards towards the heart. Spend extra time on areas that tend to be more stagnant, like the inner thigh, and don't forget to include the backs of the arms and the back. Dry brushing immediately increases circulation, so you will feel warmer when you are done. Try it before you get into the shower in the morning and you will see a difference in your skin quality and cellulite in days.  

Shirodhara

Shirodhara -The name shirodhara has been derived from Sanskrit words “Shira” and “ Dhara”, meaning “head” and “flow” respectively. During this form of Ayurvedic Massage, the main focus is on the centre  of the forehead that is considered to be the third eye. Special liquids made from Ayurvedic herbs are used in this massage, which are directly poured over the third eye or the forehead. It is effective in curing sinusitis, eye diseases, greying of hair, insomnia, allergic rhinitis, tinnitus, stress and various skin diseases including psoriasis.

How it Works

The technique used during this massage therapy is dated back to centuries. The third eye area that is the centre of the forehead is the main focus point where the liquids are poured at a particular temperature from a specific height during the Shirodhara Therapy.  The flow of these medicated oils which is recurring and continuous that gives result to a very relaxing experience and leaves the person in the state of meditation. 

The duration of the entire process is around thirty to thirty five minutes.The Ayurvedic head massage is given post to the Shirodhara therapy. Specific marma points are being worked during this therapy in order to soothe the nervous system.

Benefits of Shirodhara

The shirodhara therapy helps in stabilising the nervous system, and helps to overcome depression and stress. If  done skillfully, this therapy helps in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety and muscular stress. It is very applicable if regulating hormonal imbalance and helping  the issues caused during the pre and post menopause. It relieves tiredness and mental fatigue.

How often should one have Shirodhara?

How often Shirodhara treatment should be given depends upon the condition of the individual. It could be determined by observing the sternness of the ailment. During the entire therapy the individual getting the therapy is made to lie down on the massage table and herb oils or sesame is poured on the forehead for about twenty to forty minutes. It is best to get this therapy in the morning. For severe diseases multiple sessions of this treatment are required but for conditions like insomnia which are less severe, treatment can be restricted to a couple of sessions.

Shirodhara is a deeply relaxing therapeutic treatment.

Epsom Salts Bath

Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, discovered the therapeutic qualities of seawater by noticing the healing affects it had on the injured hands of fishermen. Since then we have discovered that sea salt therapy is an effective treatment that assists in the rejuvenation of the cells and also induces a healthy exchange of minerals and toxins between the blood and the water.
Bath in general can be very relaxing and therefore beneficial to making you look years younger. You can Google how to make a sea salt bath and you'll find some easy recipes that you can try. However, I don't advice adding anything that will not dissolve in water as it can make a mess of your bath tub or essential oils as it can make it very slippery.
How to Use Epsom salts
"Epsom Salt contains magnesium and sulfate, and has been touted to help soothe skin and muscles," adding that these benefits are more beauty lore than scientifically proven fact. But there's something to be said for the effect of these deceptively plain grains, frequently touted as a must-try beauty secret or cure-all soak.
 "It helps detox the tissues," "It also helps to strengthen elasticity and increase circulation for the body. Magnesium is known to relax muscles and increase serotonin levels, so if you have had a rough day having a soak will actually ensure a restful night."
"The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day" Hippocrates Father Of Medicine:
 The ancient Greeks and Romans understood that bathing was essential to good health. This understanding was lost during the Dark Ages and would eventually be rediscovered probably during the Renaissance.
Medicinal baths were used by the ancients either in natural hot springs or by adding salts, herbs and minerals.
A bath in an infusion of Bay Laurel leaves or essence stimulates the circulation and relieves rheumatic aches and pains.  A bath in Lavender scented water soothes the nerves and helps one relax.
  Different Types of Salts
Making your own scented bath salts is easy! Bath salts are a wonderful way to combine the therapeutic benefits of our all-natural bath salt with the relaxing, soothing effects of aromatherapy.
 Some of the salts you can use are rare and others common.
 I choose my salts based on the experience I want to have. The Greeks and Romans did similarly by visiting certain springs said to have certain healing qualities.
With the exception of Dead Sea salt which has lots of other stuff in it, many of these salts will have a mixture of trace minerals which will beneficial for relaxing or health.
You can also add herbs like Bay Laurel leaves or essence to stimulate circulation and relieves aches and pains.  Adding Lavender will help soothe the nerves and helps one relax.

The Perfect Gift - Skinceuticals A.G.E Interrupter + FREE 15ml Retexturing Activator Box Set Or SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Masque + Free 15 ml Hydrating B5 gel worth €34.

Skinceutical Gift sets

Skinceuticals A.G.E Interrupter + FREE 15ml Retexturing Activator Box Set

This special gift set comes with two of the most popular products from the SkinCeuticals range.€165. For a limited time only you will receive the following:

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter 48ml - A unique anti-ageing treatment that revives ageing and mature skin types. It helps rebuild the skin's support structure and increases elasticity and thickness, while hydrating dry, cracking skin.

FREE SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator 15ml - A revolutionary resurfacing and replenishing serum which surpasses the results of a 20% daily glycolic treatment while simultaneously reinforcing the skin’s barrier for healthier, more radiant skin. Value €42.50

SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Masque + Free 15 ML Hydrating B5 Gel worth €34. 

Hydrating B5 Masque + Free Hydrating B5, intense moisturising duo. €56.00

Boost the moisture content of dry, dehydrated skin with this impressive duo from SkinCeuticals.

Featuring the Hydrating B5 Masque (75ml) and Hydrating B5 serum (15ml), all the skin’s moisture needs are taken care of. Enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and Pro-Vitamin B5, the Hydrating B5 Masque contains twice the level of Hyaluronic acid which helps to replenish depleted moisture levels and restore skin barrier function while the Hydrating B5 Serum provides daily hydration to keep the skin soft, supple and smooth. This mask is suitable for all skin types prone to dryness even oily skin.

Suitable for all skin types, apply the Hydrating B5 Serum to cleansed skin twice a day. For the best results, use the Hydrating B5 Masque once or twice a week as an intensive treatment. Apply to clean skin and leave for 10-15 minutes before removing.

Directions

Hydrating B5 Masque – apply to clean skin and leave for around 10 – 15 minutes to sink in. Either remove excess or massage into the skin until completely absorbed. It can also be left on overnight for a more intensive treatment. Can also be used on the body.

Hydrating B5 Serum – Apply a few drops to the skin after cleansing twice a day for best results.

Arctic Plants and Berries used in Eminence Arctic Berry Radiance peel system

Used in Northern naturopathy for centuries to effectively treat and prevent disorders, this collection of arctic plants and berries is harvested from latitudes near the Arctic Circle. The ability to survive the harsh conditions encourages the creation of protective compounds in the plants, making them an effective choice for skin protection.

Cloudberry

 Is related to the raspberry

Can withstand temperatures as cold as -40°F. Is known as the “royal berry” in northern countries

Skin Benefits:

• Functions as an emollient that can soften and soothe dry skin

• Rich in essential fatty acids that promote tissue regeneration to heal and nourish the skin

• High antioxidant content protects against free radical damage

• Source of Vitamin C to promote healthy skin and protect against free radicals, also a source of Vitamin E for healing the skin

Arctic Roseroot

 Grows in areas up to 7,480 ft in elevation

Rootstocks give off a fragrance like roses

Is shown to be effective for improving mood and alleviating depression

Is shown to help with fatigue

Skin Benefits:

• Evens skin tone

• Antioxidant-rich to protect against free radical damage

• Improves the appearance ofstressed and tired skin

• Improves overall condition of skin

Arctic Meadowsweet

 Is also known as “queen of the meadow”

Is a popular digestive remedy. Was used as a stewing herb in Elizabethan times

Skin Benefits:

• Rich in flavonoids to correctfree radical damage

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• Anti-bacterial and skindetoxifier

Juniper

 Means “forever young”

The tree belongs to the pinefamily

Can survive down to -40°F

Can survive with only a few inches of water per year

Skin Benefits:

• Strong antioxidant activity to protect against free radical damage

• Acts as an astringent to tone the skin; anti-bacterial and skin detoxifier

Eminence Arctic Berry Peel and Peptide

We all have imperfections with our skin that we would like to change. What if you could strip away those imperfections to bring new, healthy, glowing skin to the surface? Now, with our new Arctic Berry Peel & Peptide Illuminating System, you are only 3 steps away from absolute radiance!

Deep exfoliation is essential to achieve a luminescent glow. Our superior system combines manual and enzymatic exfoliation with a natural peeling treatment for deeper exfoliation and ultimate results! Powerful anti-aging forces from naturally-derived peptides are the perfect way to finish off your new illuminating look.

Integrating monthly professional spa treatments with your at-home, 3-step routine will lead to more enhanced results.

 * Percentage of respondents reporting at 4 weeks. Protocol included professional and at-home treatments.  Clinically tested by an independent FDA Certified Laboratory.

How the system works:

STEP 1— EXFOLIATE

Arctic Berry Enzyme Exfoliant

Combines manual and enzymatic exfoliation, facilitating better penetration of the Arctic Berry Advanced Peel Activator MA10 (multi-acid 10%).

STEP 2— ACTIVATE

Arctic Berry Advanced Peel Activator MA10

Naturally-derived acids gently remove layers of the skin to initiate clearer, smoother and more luminous skin.

STEP 3 — ILLUMINATE

Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream

Soothes the skin while the Peptide Illuminating Complex utilises the power of peptides to achieve maximum luminosity,

See you tube link to see how it works;

http://youtu.be/JlFSol3GW_w

Peels

Natural peels are boasting amazing results and a completely transformed complexion. The new Arctic Berry Illuminating Collection includes a 3-step treatment with a results-oriented natural peel that will lead you to absolute radiance. Those with sensitive skin may be more inclined to shy away from peeling treatments. The good news is that unlike most peels, the new Arctic Berry Peel & Peptide Illuminating System can also be used on sensitive skin types! We have sourced innovative, natural active ingredients to help you achieve the same results as a synthetic chemical peel while eliminating any fear associated with this type of treatment. The synergistic blend of naturally-derived acids in the activator (step 2) are beneficial for reducing hyper pigmentation and inflammation, as well as fine lines and wrinkles. All acids are sourced from natural elements such as the hibiscus flower, grains, bitter almond and sugar, offering you the natural approach to a peel. 

Peptides

Often referred to as the “anti-aging” powerhouse, pep tides are an exciting and revolutionary skin care ingredient! By penetrating the top layer of the skin, peptides are able to send signals to our cells to let them know how to function in the most optimal way. Peptides “teach” our skin to perform a certain way, leaving us with many possibilities to change the appearance of the skin. The Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream targets the collagen protein, which gives skin strength, elasticity and suppleness. Collagen loss is one of the major causes of aging skin. Our Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream uses a botanically-sourced oligopeptide from hibiscus seed which relaxes the facial muscles, causing a Botox-like effect and is clinically proven to:

This peptide directly infiltrates the skin to counter the loss of collagen, repair skin fibre structure, restore skin elasticity and promote cell metabolism—as a result the skin will be softer and wrinkles will be less visible. Our exclusive Peptide Illuminating Complex unleashes the true power of peptides, specially formulated with supporting ingredients for maximum results and dramatically younger-looking skin. This proprietary blend of botanically-derived peptides, along with yellow plum extract and gardenia stem cells increases the effect of the collagen-stimulating peptide for an all-powerful peptide infusion.

Tips to help you achieve healthy glowing skin.

Smooth healthy glowing skin is a signature of youth. Understand your skin and figure out what best you can do for it. Following a healthy routine to care your skin is imperative for a healthy, youthful skin. Acne, wrinkles, pimples, tanned, dull or pale looking skin is too common these days. However, we do not require a rocket scientist to tell us that most of the damage is possible due to a unhealthy environment and our eating habits. The good news is that you can take care of your skin with simple tips and ingredients. Here are some tips listed below to obtain natural healthy, subtle and younger looking skin:

Healthy Diet:

You can keep your younger skin looking young for longer by consuming a balanced diet. A planned diet plays remarkable part for your overall well being. Eating plenty of coloured vegetables and fruits as these contribute in keeping younger, glowing and healthy skin.  A healthy & wholesome diet assures the right amount of minerals and vitamins that are vital in preventing the ageing factors.

Water Consumption:

It’s important to keep yourself hydrated for overall physical and mental well being. Skin is the major body part that can lose its beauty due to lack of water. The benefits are enhanced particularly when taking other healthy drinks as well such as herbal teas etc. Water flushes toxins out of the body that leaves you healthy and looking younger than your age.

Regular Exercise:

It’s vital to conduct regular workouts in your daily routine as it’s beneficial in promoting blood circulation. Proper blood circulation supplies oxygen and nutrients to every cell of your body, will make your skin glow. Workouts assist in maintaining good health that ultimately affects the look of your skin.

Skin Hygiene:

You should look at  your skin type before applying any soap, face wash, body wash and/or moisturiser to your skin. See that you use a product suited to your skin type. For some hand washes / shower gels / wipes etc cause skin sensitivities.

Exposure to Sunlight:

Avoid excess sunlight as much as possible, because it can be disastrous for skin colour, glow and freshness. Make it a habit to use sun block every day. Eat foods that reduces skin inflammation including vitamin C, E and omega 3 acids particularly.

Adequate Sleep:

Proper sleeping routine ranging from 6 to 8 hours is also advisable in order to maintain overall health as well as skin. It offers enough time to your body and skin to relax. Though time ranges can be different as per individual needs but taking enough rest is imperative. Remember lack of sleep accumulates over time resulting in puffiness and dull looking skin.

Oil Pulling An Ayurveda technique to improve gum health and whiten teeth.

Most adults have some symptoms of gum disease, even if just mildly. There is a huge market in the business of teeth whitening. A lot of money is spent on over-the-counter teeth whitening products annually. So what if you could whiten your teeth and kill cavity and disease-causing bacteria at the same time? You'd sign up straight away, we all would. That's the theory behind the practice of oil pulling; rinsing your mouth with oil daily will give you: whiter teeth, a healthier mouth and a healthier body.

Despite what's trending on the Internet, oil pulling isn't new; it's actually part of the tradition of Ayurvedic medicine. Unlike the Western style of medicine most of us are accustomed to, Ayurveda follows a more holistic approach to healing the body, tailoring remedies for your body type and constitution and generally focusing on preventing disease. It's been practiced for more than 5,000 years in India. 

Using oils on and in the body is not an unusual practice in Ayurvedic medicine; oils are used as part of a daily routine called dinacharya (as a part of daily morning massage, as well as a remedy for sore joints or irritated skin). So it's not a surprise to find traditional Ayurvedic writings mention swishing or retaining oil in your mouth practices called Kavala Graha and Gandusha  as a way to prevent oral health problems such as bad breath (halitosis), cavities and gum disease (gingivitis). Kavala Graha and Gandusha differ slightly, but they're considering gargling methods rather than pulling. Gandusha involves filling your mouth with oil and holding it there for 3 minutes before spitting. Kavala Graha involves swishing with oil for 3 minutes before gargling and spitting.

You can use organic sesame seed oil, coconut oil or sunflower oil.

Oil pulling requires only a tablespoon of oil and 20 minutes of your time. The idea is to suck – or pull the oil between your teeth while you rinse with it. Spit out the leftover oil, it will turn white and slightly foamy into the bin (don't spit oil in the sink) rinse and check out those pearly whites.

Patients with greater numbers of bad bacteria in their mouths are more likely to be diagnosed with atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries, in the neck -source: Griffin. And it's not just heart health that's affected. Limited studies have found an association between the number of teeth you've lost and your risk of developing certain cancers: Gum disease is associated with a 30 % greater risk of blood cancers, a 49% greater risk of kidney cancer and a 54 % greater risk of pancreatic cancer in adult men -source: American Academy of Periodontology. 

Nourish your skin with organic ingredients ­ inside and out.

Kale is one of the healthiest foods you can eat and can provide you with some special cholesterol-lowering benefits if you will cook it by steaming. The fibre -related components in kale do a better job of binding together with bile acids in your digestive tract when they've been steamed. When this binding process takes place, it's easier for bile acids to be excreted, and the result is a lowering of your cholesterol levels. Raw kale still has cholesterol-lowering ability—just not as much.

Kale's risk-lowering benefits for cancer have recently been extended to at least five different types of cancer. These types include cancer of the bladder, breast, colon, ovary, and prostate. Isothiocyanates (ITCs) made from glucosinolates in kale play a primary role in achieving these risk-lowering benefits.

Like most of its fellow cruciferous vegetables, kale has been studied more extensively in relationship to cancer than any other health condition. This research focus makes perfect sense. Kale's nutrient richness stands out in three particular areas: (1) antioxidant nutrients, (2) anti-inflammatory nutrients, and (3) anti-cancer nutrients in the form of glucosinolates. Without sufficient intake of antioxidants, our oxygen metabolism can become compromised, and we can experience a metabolic problem called "oxidative stress." Without sufficient intake of anti-inflammatory nutrients, regulation of our inflammatory system can become compromised, and we can experience the problem of chronic inflammation. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation—and the combination of these metabolic problems—are risk factors for development of cancer.

Kale is now recognised as providing comprehensive support for the body's detoxification system. New research has shown that the ITCs made from kale's glucosinolates can help regulate detox at a genetic level.

Kale in Skincare.

So it should be no surprise that kale has come to skincare. Hungary-based Éminence Organic Skin Care has just introduced two kale-based products,Eminence skincare is organic from seed to Jar.

Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque and Serum.

The lutein in kale is a particularly powerful skin care ingredient. As a carotenoid, lutein protects against UV-induced free radicals, improves skin hydration, and elasticity

The mask and serum also have vitamin C (for elasticity), vitamin E (which has an has anti-inflammatory effect), and lemon and grapefruit to tone and protect against free radical damage.

Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum. Fast-absorbing, advanced serum for all skin types. This potent dose of non-irritating Vitamin C is stabilised by botanically-derived ferulic acid to deliver optimal antioxidant benefits and improve the appearance of skin.

Kale is rich in vitamin A. As you know, your skin requires a healthy dose of Vitamin A.

A diet lacking in Vitamin A can lead to dry and flaky skin.Vitamin A plays a pivotal role in repairing the tissues underneath your skin and prevents damage caused by free radicals.

Kale is rich in vitamin K.Vitamin K serves as a powerful ingredient in many skin care products as it helps to get rid of tiresome dark circles under your eyes.

Kale is rich in Vitamin C: Vitamin C too helps reduce damage caused by free radicals, which is mostly likely to occur when your skin is overexposed to the sun.In other words, Vitamin C helps prevent premature aging of the skin and helps you stay younger-looking for a longer period of time.

http://youtu.be/A3TTxSi1SIU

Hair Benefits of Kale: Omega Fatty Acids: Besides its rich vitamin content, kale is also known to be packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Your hair benefits immensely when you drink a glass of kale juice every day because of the combination of these two fatty acids.

If you have a problem with breaking hair, you should consider incorporating kale juice into your daily diet. It is best to take it in the morning at breakfast. You will notice a change in the elasticity of your hair. Besides strengthening your hair roots, the benefits of kale also includes improving the blood circulation in your scalp.

Kale is a good source of dietary fibre which improves the digestive action and bowel movements. This can prove extremely beneficial for people having digestion issues.

 Skin receives the least nutrition in comparison to the other organs since it’s the organ that is the furthest from the bloodstream.A lack of real nourishment and stress can both lead to premature ageing long term.