Oh My Heartsie Girl

June 7, 2018

How Anti-Aging Products Prove Their Efficacy Claims

There are literally thousands of products promising to turn back the hands of time. Using anti-aging products is one of the most common beauty hacks for looking younger, but it’s far from a silver bullet.

Some anti-aging products really do soften fine lines, improve skin clarity, and build up collagen. Others are nothing but a waste of money. Yet all anti-aging products claim to solve our skin woes. So how do manufacturers come up with all their claims and how do you know if they’re legitimate?

Unfortunately, topical beauty product claims aren’t usually regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Manufacturers primarily rely on four tactics to prove the efficacy of anti-aging products.

Third-Party Testing of Beauty Products

One of the most common ways to obtain efficacy statistics for products is through third-party testing. Companies like The Benchmarking Company that specialize in beauty product testing base results in quantitative and qualitative consumer research.

Third-party testers use a variety of measures to gauge whether a product actually delivers results. Some are performed in-home, meaning that the consumer who’s acting as a tester uses the product at home as other consumers would. The product research company then tracks their independent thoughts on how the product worked throughout the testing period.

The tests produce verified consumer claims that are then used for marketing purposes. It’s not uncommon for manufacturers to discover benefits they didn’t even consider before the third party consumer testing.

Testing Beauty Products in a Laboratory Setting

Some beauty product manufacturers go the extra mile to definitively show results in terms of actual improvement to the skin, not just consumer opinion. These tests are performed in a laboratory setting under the direction of researchers.

When you see claims like “80% improvement in moisture retention” or “75% reduction in fine lines” those are typically obtained through laboratory testing. The researchers will take baseline measurements before product use and then observe the changes at intervals during the testing period.

Consumers should pay attention to who does the laboratory testing. It’s best for testing to be done at an outside facility rather than at the manufacturer’s testing facilities.

Expert Reviews on Anti-Aging Products

Today, there are a lot of influencers providing their seal of approval for beauty products, which their followers see as proof positive of efficacy. It’s not uncommon to see anti-aging products that prominently display awards received from expert reviewers like a beauty magazine or well-known skin specialist. The opinion of these high-profile reviewers is regularly used in marketing on product packaging, ads, and websites.

The Allure Best of Beauty Awards is a perfect example of how expert reviews can help substantiate efficacy claims. Their beauty editors test out dozens upon dozens of products to determine which ones live up to the hype. Only those that really wow their panel end up receiving an award.

FTC Advertising and Marketing Regulations

Since the FDA classifies most topical anti-aging products as cosmetics (unless they change the physical structure of the skin and are then considered a drug), the products need to be proven safe to use, but they don’t need FDA approval to verify they work as claimed. However, there are Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advertising and marketing regulations for cosmetics, and under FDA law marketing claims should not be misleading.

If the FDA finds that a manufacturer is making drug claims for a cosmetic they can take action. For example, if a manufacturer claims that an anti-aging cosmetic boosts collagen production that’s a drug claim because it would be altering the structure of the skin. If the product is a cosmetic that hasn’t gotten FDA approval to make a drug claim a warning letter will be issued. Dozens of companies have received warning letters in regard to topical skin care products, including heavyweights like L’Oreal and Peter Thomas Roth.

With so many options available and loose FDA regulations finding anti-agers that actual work can be a daunting process. Your best bet is to look for products that have been independently tested and use ingredients that are proven to be effective.

This post may contain affiliate links and I might receive compensation if you make a purchase after clicking on a link.

June 6, 2018

How To Relieve Pain Caused By Arthritis

Joint pain is very painful, reduces the mobility and thus the quality of life. Both the winter and summer seasons are particularly harsh for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Cold, moisture, extreme heat and rain are factors that increase pain, stiffness and muscle contractions. Not many people are aware that, even with joint pain, a change in diet in combination with simple home remedies and targeted nutritional supplements can lead to amazing results. Here are some tips to help eliminate pain. back pain and lower back pain can be caused by arthritis

Pay Attention To Your Weight

Arthritis is common in the knees, hips and even the ankles, due to obesity. Our bones and cartilage suffer from extra weight, and that eventually causes problems. Always try to pay attention to your weight so that you can prevent arthritis. Eating healthy foods that contain Vitamin D can help with arthritis pain.

Winter is a time that is very suitable for adding a few kilos. The typical Christmas dinner and the many seats that are commonplace in the colder months make us almost three or four kilos more or less unnoticeable. Remember that your joints need to carry the weight of your body every day. And that means the more weight they have to carry, the stronger the friction and pain.

Fight The Inflammation

On the one hand, it is important to prevent the pain from becoming chronic and getting stuck in the brain. On the other hand, the inflammation must be eliminated quickly because it is poison for the body. The joints need gentle movement to compensate for the wear. Depending on the degree of pain, there are various remedies available – from pills to injections. Herbal remedies made from CBD oil can also be used to aid with arthritis pain. You can read more on this post.

Avoid Damp Clothing

If it rained and you got wet – even if it was just a few drops – it is better that you change immediately. Moisture, combined with cold, not only causes more pain but can also cause hypothermia, which aggravates your arthritis.

Ensure You Have A Comfortable Temperature

In winter, heavy sweating and sudden temperature changes (when you walk out of a closed room onto the cold road) can cause lumbago and hypothermia, which makes arthritis more uncomfortable.

Get Outside For Some Sunshine

Bad weather can make arthritis worse. Did you know that a short walk in the sun can be an excellent therapy? However, due to your joint inflammation, you should do so with moderation and avoid excessive exposure to the sun.

Get Vaccinated Against Flu

With the coming of winter, we should take precautions to avoid the typical diseases of this season, and the flu is the star of winter. It is known that the annual flu vaccine is very effective in people with arthritis, as they are particularly susceptible to this virus.

Move Regularly

One of the keys to avoiding pain, stiffness and the typical arthritis symptoms is to keep the joints active. We know this is a bit tricky in winter when the cold and weather conditions make us want to go out and move. How about a stationary bike to do some exercise at home?

Regulate Pain Perception with Relaxation

Beat the pain with your mood. The pain mostly dominates when constantly thinking about it, which in turn will affect the whole of everyday life. Relaxation not only relaxes the muscles, but also the thoughts focused on the pain. There are a few methods that work well in practice: biofeedback, autogenic training, and meditation can reduce pain perception by up to 50 percent.

Use A Heat Or Ice Pack

If you have more discomfort during the coldest days than usual, you can try to keep the affected joints warm. The heat should be dry, and do not use it too long, as five or ten minutes is more than enough. An ice pack can also be very useful if heat aggravates your arthritis.

Get Sufficient Sleep

Resting is not only important, but it is also an essential part of arthritis treatment. If you sleep between eight and ten hours a day, it will help your body recover better from the deterioration caused by the inflammation, and it will help you combat fatigue and muscle weakness. Moreover, in winter it is recommended that you rest for half an hour every afternoon, if possible.

Keep Your Home Warm

Try to keep the rooms warm where you spend most of your time. If you take a shower, keep the door closed so that the warm steam stays in the bathroom, and do not leave the room before you have dressed and dried your hair.

Ask For Helparithmetic

Whatever it is that bothers you; it is important that you accept that we all need the help of others from time to time. Why not let someone else get the paper or buy bread at this time of the year?

Try Out Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the best-known treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. When treating arthritis with acupuncture, your recovery as a whole person is central to the treatment. An acupuncturist is interested in more than just your complaints of the pain caused by arthritis, rather they consider your whole lifestyle and will ask questions such as; How do you sleep? What do you eat? How is your resting and exercise pattern?

Exercise Regularly

Exercises help relieve stiffness. In order not to burden your body, try to exercise regularly for half an hour a day. Take regular walks with a friend, go for a swim, cycling, and even a quiet yoga session. All this ensures that your joints stay mobile and prevents them from getting stiff. This is important.

Watch Your Posture

Prevent from doing the same thing with the same joint every time, because you will feel the effects after a while. If you often have constant stress because of your work, try to do simple exercises so that you do not overload yourself. Prevent strains, as this causes fatigue in the joints and pain.

Lift Heavy Objects Carefully

When lifting heavy objects, try to hold the object as close as possible to your body. Pay attention to your posture, how you sleep and even how you use the computer. Any movement that is constant and repetitive can cause wear.

More on arthritis
9 Holistic Treatments for Arthritis
How to Use CBD Oil for Chronic Spinal Stenosis Pain
A Natural Remedy To Relieves Muscle Pain and Stiffness

June 5, 2018

10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer

Looking For Ways To Make The Most of Your Summer

As a kid, many of us looked forward to summer. We crossed off the days on the calendar at school, desperate for that first week in June to end. We stopped paying attention as soon as the classroom windows were open, because we could smell fresh-cut grass and warm spring air. Summer spelled the beginning of freedom, and we couldn’t wait to enjoy every drop of it.

Now, as adults, summer doesn’t hold quite the same magic. You work full time now, and even if you’re lucky enough to be a teacher, you must corral your own kids during the summer months! Just because you’re older, however, doesn’t mean summer must lose its magic touch for you.

This summer, try to make the most of every day. As a kid, summer meant more fun. This year, summer can mean more fun for you, too. Look at the following suggestions, and see how to turn this summer into a success for everyone.

Take a Trip

Summer is the perfect time to take a vacation if you have kids. Unless you plan a trip during their Christmas break, summer is the only time you can get the entire family out of work/school. That added dose of freedom makes summer the perfect time for vacations. All across the country, there’s no shortage of things to do, whether you want to visit Georgia, The Grand Canyon, Seattle, or Chicago. Enjoy the best of the U.S., and travel this summer with your entire brood.

Read a Book

If it’s been too long since you had time to read, now is the time to pick up a book again. You might want to invest in a classic, like Moby Dick or Jane Eyre, one that you’ve been meaning to tackle. Or, you might want something shorter, fast-paced, and a great deal of fun. Whatever your literary passions, this summer is the perfect time to pick one and enjoy yourself all the way through it.

Have a Yard Sale

Everyone has old junk lying around. You may enjoy visiting yard sales all summer, since one man’s junk is another man’s treasure. However, your junk might also be useful to another family. So, get out that unused furniture, old toys, and lamps from your attic. You could make decent wad of cash hosting a yard sale. Even if you don’t, it’s a fun way to teach your kids about math, business, and getting rid of the things you don’t need.

Get that Remodel Done

Most Americans want to remodel a certain part of their home, often the kitchen or the bathroom. You might have a part of your home you wanted upgraded, as well. Summer is the perfect time to tackle home remodels, since it’s easier to keep the windows open and air out fresh paint, and your kids don’t need as much normalcy for homework and getting to school on time. If you have a pet project, contact home improvement contractors and work on getting it finished this summer.

Go Camping

Camping is the joy of some, and the nightmare of others. If you hate mud, bugs, or pit toilets, camping isn’t for you. If, however, you can brave the wilds, take your whole family camping this summer. Camping is the perfect chance to enjoy the simple life, appreciate nature, and feel like old-timey pioneers together.

Buy a New Car

Buying a new car is often a hassle, but summer is the best time to look. In the snow and ice of winter, you won’t enjoy a stroll through your local car dealership. Instead of testing the new car in slushy conditions, test in in the summer sun. Plus, your kids aren’t in school, and they can come along to lend their opinion, which they’ll enjoy. Summer is a wonderful time to find the right vehicle for your family, so explore local car dealerships and find the best one.

Get Ready for School

Perhaps you already finished your degree, but you might wish to improve your education. It’s often hard with kids and work, but night classes or online programs help you fulfill your dream. Online colleges offer everything from an RN to BSN degree program, and you can start earning the wages of a nurse after a few years of schooling.

Explore Your Own Town

Summer is great for big trips and great for camping. It’s also great for exploring the town in which you live. You might have historical museums nearby, street fairs, art festivals, car shows, and more. Hit up your local farmer’s market or watch a movie in the park. You’ll find things you never knew existed. Your own town offers plenty of fun summer activities, so take advantage of each one this summer.

Take a Full Day Off

Many parents run constant errands. This summer, however, take an entire day off. Not just from work, but from everything. Let your spouse or parents help you, and take the entire day for yourself. Don’t clean. Don’t watch your kids. Don’t run errands. Just do whatever you want to do, from morning until night. You’ll feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Plus, one day of relaxation is easy to arrange.

Join a Team

It might be awhile since you played any sports, but this summer is the perfect chance to start again. Somewhere near you, there’s a local team waiting for you to join its ranks. You might be a little rusty, but if so, so are your teammates. You might not win many games, but you will have fun, enjoy the summer evenings, and get some enjoyable exercise. Plus, you might make lasting friendships on your team.

More Activity Ideas:
15 Summer Activities For Your Kids To Enjoy Nature
Fun Family Outings
9 Tips For Your Home For Family Fun

June 5, 2018June 18, 2021

How to Beat Oily Skin

Skin Care Tips For Oily Skin

With scorching temperatures rising daily, oily skin is almost unavoidable. There are a number of reasons why you might be struggling with oily skin this summer. Fortunately, there are also a number of ways for you to get it under control, starting now.

What Causes Oily Skin?

Slight sheen, blemishes, and acne are characteristic of oily skin. Acne can stem from a number of causes, including heredity and hormones, improper cleansing, and diet. If your siblings or parents struggle with oily skin, there’s a good chance you have it too. There are a number of oil glands in the face that secrete an oily substance called sebum. The amount of sebum that your glands secrete is based on your genetics. Too much secretion, and your skin will not be able to tolerate the overproduction, resulting in oily skin and blemishes. If you are going through puberty or starting a new medication that changes your hormonal balance, this could also be a cause for oily skin. Teenagers are stereotyped as having acne simply because the hormones found during puberty tend to cause it. The same result as with heredity occurs here–an excess amount of sebum is produced.

Preventative Measures

Cleansing

Dirty skin can lead to oil buildup and blemishes. Keeping your hands off of your face can be a good place to start. When you touch your face, the bacteria and dirt from your hands can clog the pores of your skin, resulting in blemishes. You should also cleanse your skin daily. Steer away from harsh bar soaps. If you use the same soap for your body and face, you may want to consider something a little more specialized for your face wash. It seems strange, but oil cleansers were actually made for oily skin. If you need more, a wash with salicylic acid removes oil buildup at a greater extreme than other washes, causing your pores to become clean and clear of blemishes. It is recommended that your skin feel soft after a cleansing, not tight. After you have cleansed thoroughly, use a moisturizer. Plenty of people who struggle with oily skin skip moisturizing because it seems like it will make the skin more oily. In fact, moisturizer closes up the freshly-cleaned pores, allowing moisture to stay in and dirt to remain out. A gel moisturizer for oily skin will leave you with that refreshed feeling that is characteristic of clean, healthy skin. With its light texture, it is tendered to oily skin, unlike heavy oils such as coconut and shea butter.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation is a technique used to remove the buildup of dead skin cells. Like dirt and bacteria, these cells can overwhelm your pores, leaving them clogged and prone to acne. By exfoliating nightly with a light brush or a scrubbing cleanser, you help rid your face of these dead skin cells, leaving you with fresher, softer, smoother skin. The trick to exfoliation is to do it gently. Otherwise, you risk ripping your pores open, which means more room for bacteria and dirt to settle.

Diet

Your diet could also be affecting your skin. A diet high in fried and sugary foods could lead to more blemishes. The vitamins and minerals found in a healthy, balanced diet with vegetables and minimally processed foods give your skin the nourishment it needs to glow. More water couldn’t hurt either. With more water in your system, you can sweat more. This is a good thing! Sweat is the way your skin releases its toxins. Paired with an effective cleansing routine, the process of sweating can clear your skin of unwanted particles, resulting in a healthy, natural glow.

Makeup Choices

The key to makeup for oily skin is light textures. Heavy, cake-like foundations and powders will only clog your pores more deeply. There are plenty of options these days which are specified for oily skin. Look for non-drying pressed powders that are made for oily skin. It may take a bit of trial and error to find out what works best for you, but the results will be worth the effort. Give this a try and you may begin to notice the difference in your skin health.

Dermatologist

If you are trying a number of skincare routines without success, consider consulting a dermatologist for help. You may need a prescription face wash or medication to combat your oily skin. Try to catch it early. Don’t wait until your skin is uncomfortable and unmanageable to admit that you might need help discovering your skincare regimen.

It is important to remember that oily skin and blemishes are nothing to be ashamed of. With some preventative care, you may find the discomfort subsides and your skin starts to look healthier. Above all, what matters is that you feel comfortable and confident in your skin.