Skin Care and Beauty + Original Articles

Along the way, you've probably heard (and believed) a fallacy or two about beauty. Here, we dispel seven major misconceptions. Along the way, you've probably heard (and believed) a fallacy or two about beauty. Here, we dispel seven major misconceptions. Waxing or shaving will make your hair grow back thicker or darker. Removing hair doesn't do much to change its appearance.

Body odor is influenced by mood, diet, medications, medical conditions and hormone levels, say experts. Everyone has a distinct and specific body odor. This is so much so that it can even be used by dogs or other animals to identify criminals. According to medical experts, each individual's unique body odor can be influenced by their mood, diet, medications, medical conditions, and hormone levels.

One method of reconstruction that continues to be studied is fat injections for breasts. But how safe (and effective) is this procedure? There are many reasons why women choose to reshape their breasts. Some wish to repair results from surgery while others are simply looking to boost their bust. Whatever the reason, cosmetic surgeons are improving methods for breast augmentation, reconstruction, and contouring.

What are the chances that this popular vegetable could be a potential cure for skin cancer? Read on to find out. Can Eggplant Cure Skin Cancer? Scientists have discovered that a phytochemical called solasodine glycoside, found in common fruits and vegetables like tomatoes and eggplant, has cancer-fighting properties. These properties have been discovered in natural substances before, but when extracted and developed into treatment therapies, they often prove ineffective.

Proponents claim that products extracted from the Dead Sea have miraculous properties and can clear up anything from eczema to psoriasis. But are Dead Sea products much more than a brilliant marketing plan? Proponents claim that products extracted from the Dead Sea have miraculous properties and can clear up anything from eczema to psoriasis. But are Dead Sea products really more than a brilliant marketing plan? The Dead Sea is a geographical phenomenon located in-between Jordan and Israel.

To protect this very delicate area and keep it looking as youthful as possible, follow these simple tips. The skin around your eyes reveals quite a bit about your overall health and true age. This skin is thin, delicate, and has no oil glands. Plus, it's constantly moving-folding  into the 10,000+ facial expressions you make each day. To protect the skin around the eyes and keep it looking as youthful as possible, follow these simple tips.

Body wraps have been said to moisturize your skin and even help you slim down. But are all these claims founded or not? What to Expect from a Body Wrap People rave that body wraps can help you detoxify, moisturize, and slim down. Spa and at-home body wraps become more and more popular every year. You may wonder if they're worth the $100-plus price tag. And what can they really do?   Why Wrap? Spa literature claims that after a body wrap, you'll be inches thinner and feel purified.

Here's what you need to know about this popular type of procedure. Nothing lights up your face like a beautiful smile, so it's not surprising that people spend so much time and money whitening their teeth. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dental Surgery, 96 percent of Americans think that an attractive smile is important for attracting the opposite sex, and 74 percent feel an ugly smile can hinder career advancement.

A 2000-year old practice may be proving to be an effective treatment for this chronic condition. Hundreds of Eastern and Western medical studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can help alleviate pain and treat ailments. In very basic terms, this more than 2000-year-old practice involves inserting tiny needles in precise places of the body in order to release and promote a healthy flow of energy.

Is this procedure really as side-effect free as proponents claim it to be? If you're considering a facial rejuvenation procedure, you've likely heard of microdermabrasion, one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to improve your skin's texture and tone. Many doctors and patients rave about how it can shave years off your face; and scientific studies have even proven that it works.

Psoriasis can be both physically and emotionally difficult to handle. Now, research is showing that it may also put you at risk for some serious diseases. It's estimated that more than 7.5 million people suffer from psoriasis, an uncomfortable and sometimes painful skin condition. Psoriasis is caused by a buildup of excess cells on skin's surface that form patches of red, itchy skin. The exact cause is unknown and currently there's no cure for this condition.

Read on for ways to reduce the frequency of these aesthetically unpleasing additions. Ingrown hairs occur when new hairs bend back into the skin. You may end up with tiny red bumps (aka razor bumps) and even small pustules that look like acne outbreaks. Unfortunately the only way to completely prevent ingrown hairs is to stop removing hair- not usually the best aesthetic solution- however there are ways to treat ingrown hairs and reduce their frequency.

If your town has a lot of smog, you may be more prone to premature aging and possibly even skin cancer. If your town has a lot of smog, you already know how it affects your lungs. Research shows that it can also aggravate skin conditions, lead to premature aging, and possibly increase your risk for skin cancer. Smog consists of a combination of tiny particles of dust and soot; pollutants including nitrogen dioxide, lead, and carbon monoxide; and "bad" ozone.

If you think dehydration only occurs outside during the summertime, you're sorely mistaken. When you think of staying hydrated, the warm summer months may come to mind. And while it's important to avoid dehydration when working or playing outdoors in summer's heat, it's just as crucial to maintain appropriate fluid levels when the temperature falls and you spend more time in heated indoor environments.

Read on to find out how to soothe your symptoms, or reduce your outbreaks altogether. All About Cold Sores Cold sores, aka "fever blisters", are small blisters that occur around the mouth and occasionally in your nostrils, fingers, chin, gums, or roof of your mouth. They can tingle and ache before and during the blister formation, which usually lasts for a week to 10 days before it crusts and peels away.

They may be ugly, irritating, and embarrassing, but are they harmful? Get the answers here. They may be ugly, irritating, and embarrassing, but are they harmful? And is there anything you can do to prevent and treat them? About Common Warts Caused by a strain of the human paplillomavirus (HPV), common warts are harmless growths that usually appear on the hands and fingers.

When you reach for an antibacterial soap or cleanser, you may be doing your skin more harm than good. The word "bacteria" lives in the public consciousness alongside words like "disease" and "germ." But are bacteria something to be feared, avoided, and killed whenever possible? Studies have shown how bacteria can enable digestion. Now, research is demonstrating how bacterial balance may be crucial for healthy skin.

Try these everyday tips to minimize the frizz, breakage, and dryness. Winter's chilly temperatures and bitter winds can create a hostile environment for your hair. Things only get worse when you go inside, where dry heat saps hair of its natural moisture. But you don't have to have bad hair days all season. Try these everyday tips to minimize the frizz, breakage, and dryness.

Shave time off your beauty routine and still get out the door looking presentable.   Ever have a morning where you're so late you wish you could go to work in your PJs? Shave time off your beauty routine and still get out the door looking presentable. Take a three-minute shower, and only wash areas where you may have perspired.

Here, 10 tips for finding a moisturizer that will get rid of the dryness, itchiness, and redness that is all-too-common in the winter months. Freezing elements and dry indoor air disrupt skin's balance during the winter, robbing it of lipids and stripping its epidermis of liquids. If your skin feels tighter, itchy, red, or flaky, or seems more likely to look dull, break out, and show lines, your winter moisturizer isn't doing its job.

Approximately 3 percent of the population suffers from a condition that causes them to perspire profusely, regardless of temperature. Approximately 3 percent of Americans suffer from excess sweating, but the majority of them never speak to a doctor about it. Understanding more about this problem can help you get the treatment you need. Why We Sweat Our bodies use sweat to regulate temperature.

Your cleansing regimen can help keep you looking young--or add years to your appearance. Your cleansing regimen can help keep you looking young--or add years to your appearance.  Fortunately, there are ways to achieve optimal cleanliness without stripping your skin of essential oils. Face Washing 101 The biggest mistake most of us make is in washing too often.

If you never leave the house without a tube of lip balm or can't even count the number of times you apply it each day, you may be worried that you have an unhealthy attachment to lip balm. If you can't leave the house without a tube in your pocket or can't even count the number of times each day you apply, you may be worried that you have an unhealthy attachment to lip balm. But is it possible to be addicted to something so innocuous? Experts are divided on the subject.

Trick your body into thinking it's spring with these eight moisture-preserving ideas. Winter may be the worst time of year for your skin, particularly if you suffer from an underlying condition like psoriasis or eczema. Blowing winds, extreme cold, and dry, indoor air can dehydrate even the most balanced skin. Trick your skin into thinking it's spring with these moisture preserving ideas.

Here's what you need to know about the acne family factor. If you or your spouse were plagued with this embarrassing condition, you may wonder if your kids are destined for the same fate. The answer? Maybe. Acne occurs when testosterone causes skin's sebaceous glands produce too much oil and dead skin cells can't shed properly.

Is mineral makeup worth all the hype? Check out these FAQ's to find out. Proponents of mineral makeup claim that it not only gives you great coverage and looks completely natural, but it can also clear up acne and soften your skin. So, is it worth all the hype? Check out these FAQ's to find out. What Is It? Mineral makeup consists of various combinations of natural minerals like zinc oxide, bismuth oxychloride, talc, mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, combined with natural pigments.

The skin of the neck tends to be thin and dry and can lose elasticity as you age. Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep—or renew—its youthful appearance. Keep Your Neck from Showing Your Real Age You've probably seen someone whose face looks young but neck is riddled with wrinkles and age spots. Neck skin tends to be thin and dry, plus loses elasticity as we age. But there are things you can do to keep - or renew - its youthful appearance.

While most of the dangers of waxing are a result of misapplication or skin sensitivity, frequent waxing may cause skin to lose its elasticity and become more prone to wrinkles. Waxing is a popular, cost-effective option for hair removal. In addition to lasting 2-8 weeks, it's a method that you can even do yourself. But it does pose risks for skin damage, irritation, and infection. Here's an overview of waxing and some suggestions for avoiding complications.

Proponents claim alpha hydroxy acids can reduce discoloration as well as stimulate your skin to produce elastin and collagen. But are the benefits worth the risks? You'll find alpha hydroxy acids in moisturizers, cleansers, exfoliants, and myriad other beauty products. Proponents say they reduce signs of aging like discoloration caused by the sun or acne, sun-damage, and wrinkles, plus stimulate your skin to produce elastin and collagen - all resulting in a more youthful you.

Razor bumps are painful and cause scarring. Learn a few shaving and skin care tricks to prevent them from popping up. A consumer poll carried out by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) revealed that 78 percent of men who shave suffer from razor bumps, which are really ingrown hairs or pseudofolliculitis barbae. These skin irritations primarily affect men with curly or kinky hair and cause irritation and scarring.

Follow these tips to keep your shave close, clean, and free from irritation. Whether you're removing hair from your legs or bikini line, there are several ways to ensure your results are as smooth as possible. Here, tips to keep your shave clean and free from irritation: Never shave dry skin. If you're not going to shave in the shower or tub, be sure to moisten your skin with hot water for at least 2-3 minutes before you pick up the razor.

Here, we shed some light on the subject of dark circles. There are several causes for dark under-eye circles-many of them preventable-and no matter what the cause, there are things you can do to minimize their appearance. Dark circles are caused by hyper-pigmentation under the eye. Dilated blood vessels lie just beneath the thin under-eye skin and show through, creating a bruised look.

Read on to find out if you're giving your body the nutrition it needs to look its best. The Best Vitamins Can Help Your Hair, Skin, and Nails Your body needs 13 essential vitamins to survive, and a deficiency in these could leave you with thinner hair, rough skin, or brittle nails. There are many vitamin-rich topical treatments available, but the most important way vitamins work is from the inside out.

Here are some noninvasive ways to help bring back your youth and confidence. Looking for a way to rejuvenate your face, but can't make the commitment to invasive surgery? Talk to your doctor about these alternatives that can bring back your youth and confidence. Tumescent Liposuction or Neck Rejuvenation A less invasive surgical alternative to a traditional facelift, this procedure removes excess fat in the jowls and chin area through a small incision underneath the chin and occasionally, behind the ears.

Many of us wear reminders of past on our skin. If you have a scar that brings you embarrassment--or worse, pain--there are several treatment options available. As skin tries to heal itself, it produces excess collagen to close the wound. Scar tissue contains tough collagen fibers that arrange themselves haphazardly, rather than the even pattern they create regular skin. This distortion of fibers makes them stand out.

Here's what you need to know about this popular procedure. Wondering whether laser hair removal is right for you? Here are some answers to common questions about this populr procedure. How does it work? Powerful, controlled flashes of light are beamed onto the area with unwanted hair. The melanin pigment in the hair attracts the laser energy towards the follicle, heating it up and eventually destroying it.

More than 1 million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in 2009. But there are things you can do to prevent the disease. Being diagnosed with any type of cancer is a frightening experience. But a diagnosis of skin cancer may be particularly scary, because in many cases, the patient has limited knowledge about what contributes to the condition. According to the Centers for Disease Control, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignant form of cancer in the United States, surpassing lung, breast, colon, and prostate cancer.

Hair restoration and hair implants can take a while to make a difference when you’re balding. These quick hair loss treatments provide short-term relief. Did someone forget to let scientists know it's 2009? In 2004 they boldly predicted that a cure for baldness would arrive in about five years, due to stem cells that could regenerate hair growth. Men (and women) suffering from baldness eagerly awaited the cure, but, as of now, there's no cure for hair loss.

Certain treatments can help to significantly the appearance of this common cosmetic problem. If stretch marks are strewn along your stomach, hips, or thighs,  you may think there's nothing you can do about this unsightly problem. But the truth is, certain treatments can help to significantly reduce their appearance. Stretch marks are caused by a stretching of the skin, combined with elevated cortisone levels.

Ever noticed that you always break out on the day of a job interview or another big event? It's not just an unlucky coincidence. Ever noticed that you always break out on the day of a job interview or a big event? It's not just an unlucky coincidence—doctors have discovered there are many ways that stress can negatively impact your skin. The Impact of Stress Hyper-Reactions.

Male acne isn’t just an early puberty problem. It can plague you in your early adult life as well. Find out what to do about it. It's difficult to admit, but guys care about their skin too. But figuring out the right products or treatment for male acne can be challenging--a reality that one savvy company has taken advantage of in the nick of time. In 2008, the Mentholatum Company in the U.

It's time to get back to basics on what makes you beautiful. It's time to get back to basics on what really makes you beautiful: good healthy both inside and out. You don't need an unlimited budget to make you beautiful, but here are ten investments that are sure to pay off: 1. Sunscreen. Nothing ages you faster than the sun, so you should make sure to wear this all-year long.

Here's what to do—and what not to do—in order to keep your skin healthy. With so many different types of skin in the world, it would be impossible to write a skin-care prescription for everyone. However, there are some cardinal rules for keeping your skin healthy and spotting potential problems. DO Wear Sunscreen Every Day Most of us lather on the SPF when we're at the beach, but damaging UV rays can harm your skin even when you're just walking around.

Here, answers to common questions surrounding menopause and your skin. If you're going through menopause or expecting to in the next few years, you may be experiencing dry, itchy, or flushed skin.  But why does it happen? And how can you ease these symptoms? Here, answers to common questions surrounding menopause and your skin.

Some people insist on shampooing their hair daily, while others insist that waiting a few days between washes is the key to luscious locks. Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils, resulting in dry locks and split ends. But waiting too long before washes can result in a greasy scalp. So what's the magic number? The answer is different for everyone. Hair washing removes excess oil, called "sebum", along with dead skin cells and dirt.

Can an extra dose of C or E actually eliminate those lumps and bumps? If you're an acne sufferer on the lookout for a new way to battle this condition, you've probably heard rumors that vitamins could be the answer. Typically the treatment involves a regular application of skin-clearing agents that fight the inflammation.

Don't want BOTOX? Try these options instead. Whether you're tired of repeated injections, have developed a resistance to BOTOX® Cosmetic, or simply don't like the idea of inserting bacteria into your skin, it's time to consider one of these other wrinkle remedies. Cosmeceuticals Lately more and more cosmetic companies are releasing new topical treatments that are supposed to be a hybrid of beauty product and medicine.

If hair starts to thin, it can be more than just a beauty bother. It can be downright traumatic. Concerned about thinning hair? According to the American Hair Loss Council, female pattern baldness affects about a third of all susceptible women. It usually affects post-menopausal women, but can start as early as adolescence. Generally, female hair loss has three causes: a system shock (stress alopecia), auto-immune disease (alopecia areata), or a genetic predisposition to pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).

Here, we answer your most pressing questions about birthmarks, beauty marks, and moles. What's the difference between birthmarks, beauty marks, and moles? Birthmarks are skin blemishes that form before you're born or shortly thereafter. Vascular ("strawberry") birthmarks tend to be areas of reddish, swelled skin thought to be caused by a non-harmful overgrowth of blood vessels.

If the threat of cancer, heart disease, and emphysema aren't enough to make you pack it in, how about crow's feet, wrinkles, and warts? Cigarettes and Your Skin...A Recipe for Premature Aging With all the well-publicized reasons not to smoke, you hardly need another one. But if the threat of cancer, heart disease, and emphysema  aren't enough to make you pack it in, how about your youth? Just like too much sun exposure, smoking can make you look years older than you are.

Did you know that the condition of your skin may also be a window into any illnesses you might have? As any teenager knows, skin problems can be embarrassing. But did you know that the condition of your skin may also be a window into any illnesses you might have? From mysterious rashes to bumps and discolorations, here's what you need to look for before you reach for that bottle of concealer: Yellow skin.

While you can't go back in time to make sure you're slathered in SPF, there are still some ways to reduce the appearance of age spots. Once you hit 40, years of UV overexposure may catch up with you in the form of age (a.k.a liver) spots on your hands, back, or face. These spots are caused by your skin over-producing melanin in an effort to protect itself from UV rays. While they're generally harmless, you don't have to live with them.

The following approaches will help give your nails the boost they need. Does it feel like your nails never get beyond a certain length? Most likely, your lifestyle habits or  genes are to blame. According to the Mayo Clinic, our nails grow about a millimeter every day. Nail growth occurs when new cells develop under your cuticle, causing old ones to harden and push out towards the end of your fingers.

Avoid sipping on these drinks that erode enamel and cause tooth decay. When you need to quench your thirst, think twice about which drink you choose. According to several dental associations around the country, including the American Dental Association, some of the most popular drinks that we consume erode enamel and lead to tooth decay.

Here are some of the most popular ways Americans are waging a war with wrinkles. You stay out of the sun during high noon, eat well, and use moisturizer every day. But if time is still taking its toll on your face, you may want to consider a more aggressive approach to smoother skin. Here are some of the most popular ways Americans are waging a war with wrinkles.

Here's a simple way to get to know your moles. If you're like most people, you have between 10 and 40 moles. Moles can be skin-colored or different shades of pink and brown, they can be raised or flat, and can change over time. Some changes are natural, but some can be indications of melanoma—the most deadly form of skin cancer.

Combing through the surgical and medical baldness treatments that are proven effective. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) reports that nearly 50 million men suffer from hereditary baldness or hair loss. Without a hair loss cure, millions of men are left to baldness treatments that range from the really effective to the ridiculous.

Learn about common causes of varicose veins, plus get a leg up on possible treatment options. If you've noticed blue or red bulging or branching veins in your legs or face, you're not alone. According to The National Women's Health Information Center, more than half of all American women have problems with varicose and/or spider veins. When too much pressure is placed on the veins, the valves stretch and allow blood to pool.

What your dinner plate looks like plays a big role in what your skin looks like. Generally, if you eat a healthy, balanced diet, it will show on your face. Scientists have argued for years over the link between diet and skin problems, though there are some things that everyone agrees can negatively impact your skin's appearance and aggravate existing problems.

Read on to find out whether all that color applied to your scalp could be doing you more harm than good. If you're like 70 percent of American women (and a small number of men), coloring your hair is a regular part of your beauty routine. But whether you entrust your hue to a pricey salon or are a do-it-yourself home colorist, you may have wondered whether all that color applied to your scalp and hair might possibly be bad for your health.

It's not possible to be addicted to tanning...is it? You know that relaxed, slightly euphoric feeling you have when you leave the tanning salon? It's not just in your head. Believe it or not, tanning is on the growing list of addictive behaviors. If you tan in a salon, you're not alone. More than one million Americans seek that day-in-the-sun look year-round.

Tanning addiction can cause serious health issues. Will teens be banned in order to protect them? Find out here. Does your teen visit a tanning salon to keep a golden glow year round? If so, he or she is not alone. In 2003, more than one quarter of teens between 15 and 18 visited a salon. Tanning bed use is increasing in teens, especially girls. So is the incidence of skin cancer.

Here, key questions to ask your doctor before committing to Botox. BOTOX Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A) is a neurotoxin administered through a series of small injections to reduce reduces forehead and frown lines between the eyebrows. It works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles and is relatively quick and painless.

Before you jump into the tanning bed, beware these serious health problems that can occur from too much time under the lights. We know how damaging the sun's rays can be, but there's a common misconception that tanning beds are safer because they emit a higher concentration of the "browning" UVA rays than the "burning" UVB ones. In fact, tanning beds accelerate the sun's effects by 3x, so the chance for overexposure is even greater.

Can this popular procedure do more harm than good? If you have acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines, or any type of pigmentation from sun damage, you may have considered a chemical peel. This is a procedure that uses a chemical solution to "peel" away the damaged outer layers of skin, usually on the face.

When it comes to skin aging, it's hard separating fact from fiction. Here, we debunk the biggest myths about fine lines and wrinkles. No one wants wrinkles, but like it or not, everyone gets them sooner or later. The question is, how can you minimize the amount and the severity of the wrinkles you get? There are a host of miracle solutions there, but according to experts, many of them are simply wishful thinking.

What can contribute to the cause of wrinkle resistance may surprise you. In the quest for ever-lasting beauty, Americans spend about $1 billion a year on assorted creams that claim to provide a fountain of youth in every bottle. And some charge dear for this service: ReVive Intensite Volumizing Serum is perhaps the most expensive at $600 per fluid ounce.

Fruits, vegetables, and even buffalo can help you realize success with your tresses. You do almost everything to maintain healthy hair: You wash and condition it regularly, you stay away from blow dryers, curling irons, and all manner of other heat-styling devices, you neither perm nor bleach it, you use a scrunchie rather than an elastic when pulling it up into a ponytail, you wear a bathing cap when swimming, you've even invested in satin pillowcases and a boar-bristle brush.

When it comes to protecting your skin, is there a magic number? SPF 30, SPF 15, SPF 70, SPF 4. The numbers seem to rush at you from the drugstore shelves as you stare at the dizzying array of brightly colored sunscreen bottles. If an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 is good, is 70 better? Is there a minimum SPF you...

Don’t let outdoor activities put you at risk for skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. In fact, more people develop skin cancer than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer combined. The American Cancer Society attributes most cases of skin cancers to sun exposure. While it's impossible to avoid the sun-and you shouldn't-you can protect yourself from the sun's damaging rays.

Follow these tips to uncover smooth and healthy skin. It's one of life's ironies that the shiny, oily skin you battled in your youth tends to get dry and flaky as you sail toward midlife. Some drying is a natural consequence of agingéafter all, the hormones responsible for seeing you through puberty (and supplying you with teenage acne) thankfully have died down.

If you have eczema, there is an easy and natural treatment option: go shopping for new clothes. If you have eczema, you know how painful the dry skin and bubbly rash that often occurs with this condition can be. It most often appears in the knees and elbow joints, on the back of hands and even on your scalp, and comes with such intense itching that you may just feel desperate for relief.

With a few tricks, everyone will think you got a full eight hours. It’s no secret that women often have trouble sleeping as they get older. And there’s nothing like a full plate—work projects due, sick kids, money worries—to keep you up at night. If you’ve been tossing and turning in the wee hours, it’s probably taking a toll on your appearance.

If you suffer from a skin allergy, you know all too well how much the severe dryness and itching can disrupt your daily lifestyle.You are probably willing to try anything that will offer some relief from the symptoms so you can feel comfortable in your own skin, literally. What is a Skin Allergy? When most people think of allergies, they likely think of sneezing, congestion and asthma symptoms. But the fact is that many people also suffer from allergies that affect their skin, causing rashes, hives and patches of irritation and extreme dryness throughout their bodies.

Stay beautiful while being good to your body. If you've been carefully reading nutrition labels and making an effort to put healthier, more natural foods into your body, it stands to reason that you also may be rethinking the things you apply to the outside of your body-namely, your makeup, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen and other cosmetics.

Stay beautiful while being good to the earth. If you've been carefully reading nutrition labels and making an effort to put healthier, more natural foods into your body, it stands to reason that you also may be rethinking the things you apply to the outside of your body-namely, your makeup, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen and other cosmetics.

Eight Celebrities Who've Turned Flaws Into Trademarks Hollywood has always had its quirky-looking stars. And although their ranks may be thinning in this age of nose jobs and Photoshop, we've rounded up eight celebs who've stuck to their guns — and refuse to shy away from their individuality. Tyra Banks.

It's essential that diabetics take extra-special care of their feet. When you have diabetes, taking proper care of your feet is extremely important.  Diabetics are more prone to cuts, ulcers, and sores on the skin, which can sometimes lead to serious infections. An article published in the Health Science Journal noted that foot problems remain a major cause of hospitalization amongst patients with diabetes.

From head to toe, we explore symptoms and solutions for some of the most awkward health conditions. At one time or another, an embarrassing malady is bound to fall on everyone. Although some are more debilitating than others, all are at least conquerable, if not curable, with a combination of diligence, patience, and a doctor's supervision. Here, we...

Learn how to cope with poison ivy, poison oak, and other notorious summer rashes. Rashes resulting from exposure to poison ivy, oak, and sumac can give anyone the summertime blues. In fact, approximately 50 million people suffer from the itch and discomfort associated with these types of poisonous vegetation each year. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and avoid these irritants and protect your skin.

Find out if your weird rashes, twitches, lumps and bumps are signs of something serious. You're showering after a workout at the gym when you notice something strange. There's a weird rash on your leg, a bump on your navel or maybe just a couple of indentations on your nail. It definitely isn't normal. But is it a sign of something serious?   Knowing what your body is trying to tell you isn't easy, especially when it comes to more unusual symptoms like these.

Find out why more and more women are turning to cosmetic surgery to regain their pre-pregnancy figures. For many women, there's no greater thrill than having a baby. The act of childbirth signifies a new stage in their lives, and the arrival of their little one is a source of great joy. But some new moms find that pregnancy affects their bodies in unexpected, and unwanted, ways.

Where you live has an impact on the type of procedure you're most likely to have.  Say you know two women with identical figures and facial features. One lives in New York, the other in Texas. Image-conscious, both are planning on having plastic surgery. It only makes sense that they might choose similar procedures, right? Wrong.

Have you ever fantasized about getting liposuction to eliminate that belly fat for good? Find out if you could be a candidate.

 

Flabby underarms, stubborn love handles, and back fat that just won't budge. If any of this sounds familiar, you're in good company. Millions of Americans are frustrated by excess fat they can't seem to shed, no matter how hard they try. For this reason, liposuction is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries in the country.

More than 240,000 Americans opted for eyelid surgery in 2007. Learn about the risks and rewards of this popular procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), approximately 241,000 Americans opted for cosmetic eyelid surgery in 2007--making the procedure, also known as blepharoplasty, the fourth most common cosmetic surgery in the United States. What's fueling its popularity? As the ASPS explains, blepharoplasty can enhance the appearance of the eyelids, making patients look younger, more rested, and more alert.

Thinking about getting a nose job? Here's what you need to know. Maybe you have a bump that makes you feel self-conscious about getting your picture taken. Or perhaps it's a deviated septum that's causing you to have breathing problems. Whether it's for cosmetic purposes, health reasons, or a combination of factors, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the United States.

Think the salon is just a place to be pampered? You may be getting much more than you bargained for. Mad cow disease, hepatitis, fungus, even stroke—these can all result from a day of relaxation and beautification at the salon. Beauty is only skin deep, but you're going to have to look beyond the surface to make sure your next trip to the beauty parlor leaves you pampered and free of these nine frightening health risks: 1.

Their symptoms may sound scary, but most of these conditions can be successfully treated with simple medications. Fluid-emitting blisters. Itchy, ring-shaped rashes. Crusty, painful sores. These symptoms of the skin may sound scary (and revolting), but, really, they're quite treatable—usually don't last for more than a couple of weeks. What is scary, though, is their highly infectious factor (some can be transferred through simply sharing hairbrushes or sleeping in the same bed.

Want to get rid of freckles? A hangover? A burn? Don't try these methods at home...or anywhere else, for that matter. For every one ailment, there are a score of home remedies that claim to cure it. Some are effective--like drinking ginger tea for a troubled stomach or soaking in Epsom salts to soothe achy muscles--while others are pretty useless or, worse still, dangerous.

Learn how to minimize wrinkles, diminish age spots, and reveal a more youthful you. The battle against aging is one of the longest wars we humans have ever waged. From ancient explorers who searched tirelessly for the elixir of life to innovative cosmetics that stock the drugstore shelves today, we've been on an eternal quest to stave off the ravages of old age-or at least its outward signs.

Want younger-looking skin? Try incorporating these six foods into your daily diet. Yes, aging is inevitable, but looking older than you are isn't. Smooth skin can take years off your appearance, and there are several things you can do to keep yours looking young and healthy. Start by avoiding activities like tanning and smoking, which can cause skin to age more quickly.

Slathering your face with glue? Swathing your thighs in Saran Wrap? Ladies, don't try these tips at home. It's often said that beauty is pain--and for a few adventurous souls, the pursuit of beauty can be weird, wacky, and downright dangerous. The unconventional tips they follow? Some may be familiar (dabbing toothpaste on a pimple), while others are simply disturbing (plumping lips via vacuum cleaner).

When it comes to UV exposure, is your town savvy or foolish? Find out here. It's no secret that protecting yourself from the sun can make you look years younger, not to mention lower your risk of skin cancer. But as it turns out, certain cities are savvier about UV protection than others. Which locations are the most and least UV aware? It's not just a matter of getting the most sunshine (sun-drenched locales like Miami and Tucson didn't make the list).

Buyer beware. Ingredients in some of these popular cosmetic products have been linked to dangerous;and sometimes even deadly;side effects. We dye, paint, perfume, and spray with reckless abandon, but could our favorite beauty products be doing us more harm than good?  Dermatologist Jason R. Lupton weighs in with his list of the top six most dangerous ingredients. After reading this, you might want to start checking the labels of your favorite brands.

You've decided to get an elective procedure but still face the daunting task of finding a doctor. Here, a guide to help you get started. You've contemplated getting breast augmentation, a nose job, or a tummy tuck for years. You've done your research, weighed the pros and cons, and decided to move ahead. But you still have another important decision to make: choosing a cosmetic surgeon.

Can elective procedures boost your confidence and enhance your self-esteem? Over the past decade, television has been infiltrated by shows about elective surgery. Whether it's fictional dramas like Nip/Tuck or reality shows like Dr. 90210, cosmetic surgery seems to be everywhere. In fact, these shows' popularity has risen about as quickly as the popularity of plastic surgery itself.

More and more people are turning to elective options, such as plastic surgery and fertility treatments, to improve their confidence and enhance the quality of their lives. If you've fantasized about making alterations to your appearance at one time or another, you're not alone. More than 11 million cosmetic procedures were performed in 2006, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the number is growing.

The rising costs of health care may seem daunting, but understanding your options doesn't have to be. Here, an explanation of common, but confusing, terms. For many people, attempting to understand health care can feel like trying to find their way through a maze. All of the confusing the costs, terms, conditions, and stipulations can start to sound like a foreign language. Here, we set the facts straight.

The latest dental advances are enabling more people to achieve their dream of a flawless smile. Here, a guide to some of the most popular procedures. Your smile can indicate a great deal about you, revealing whether you're happy, surprised, excited, or confident. In fact, 99 percent of people believe a smile is an important social asset, and nearly 75 percent say an unattractive smile can hurt a person's chances for career success, according to a study conducted on behalf of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).

From nose and eye jobs to breast enlargement and liposuction, cosmetic surgery is on the rise. Here, a guide to some of the nation's most popular procedures. For some people, cosmetic surgery represents the chance to change a physical feature they've never really liked. For others, it represents an exciting option to turn back the clock a little. For others, it's an opportunity to boost their body image and enhance their self-esteem.

Before you splurge on the latest anti-wrinkle cream or step inside a tanning booth, check out these common beauty myths. Greasy foods give you acne. Dry skin leads to wrinkles. Sunscreen blocks UV rays. These are just a few of the most common skin-care mythsand by this point, you've probably heard them all. Some of these myths promise overnight acne fixes, while others suggest amazing anti-aging effects.

Babies' skin is especially sensitive to the sun's harsh rays. Here are ways you can protect your little one. You want to take your baby outside to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, but you also want to be sure you protect him from sunburn. Follow these guidelines, whether you're taking your child to the beach or out for a stroll in the park. For starters, infants younger than 6 months old should not be exposed to strong, direct sunlight, according to experts.

Concerned about safety and the environment, many women are embracing "natural beauty." Check out these easy ways to start going green. For most women, the term natural beauty might seem like something of a misnomer. After all, women spend an estimated $200 billion annually on cosmetics--substances that are specially designed to beautify, promote attractiveness, or alter appearance, according to the U.

A few simple changes can help take years off your appearance. High-school reunions can be a shock. Everyone attending is about the same age, so why do some classmates look amazingly young while others look at least a decade older than the rest? Genes play a significant role, of course. Grandma Esther's smooth, wrinkle-free skin may have been passed down to future generations, along with Uncle Jake's slim physique.

There's more to Botox than just a pretty face. Doctors are now using the injectable to treat a variety of serious medical conditions. By now, you've probably seen advertisements for Botox—a popular injectable that relaxes targeted muscles to reduce or eliminate surface wrinkles, giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance. But in recent years, scientists have found that there's much more to the drug than meets the eye.

What's causing your psoriasis to flare up? Learn about the leading triggers--and how to prevent them. Unlike contagious diseases that you can catch from another person, experts believe that psoriasis is caused by a genetic vulnerability and triggered by a set of environmental factors. To reduce your risk of flare-ups, the National Psoriasis Foundation recommends steering clear of the following psoriasis triggers: Stress.

Psoriasis affects an estimated 7.5 million people in the United States, but all too often, the condition is misunderstood. Here, we separate fact from fiction. Do you think psoriasis is simply a skin disease? Do you suspect that it's a contagious condition? Do you believe it's caused by poor hygiene or that it can be cured? If so, you're like millions of Americans who are misinformed about the disease. Read on to learn the truth behind the top six psoriasis myths.

Follow these easy steps to minimize your risk of breakouts. Contrary to popular belief, blemishes aren't just for teenagers. In fact, acne affects an estimated 25 percent of adult men and 50 percent of adult women—some of whom never experienced acne during their adolescence. What's more, adult acne tends to be different than teen acne.

Rosacea, which often causes constant redness in the face, can be frustrating and difficult to treat, but there are steps you can take to manage the condition. Rosacea is a common, long-term skin disease that affects an estimated 14 million Americans. The condition may produce persistent redness, or flushing; acne; and visible blood vessels in the center of the face. What's more, these symptoms can eventually spread to the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose.

Psoriasis can be frustrating, painful, even embarrassing. Follow these tips to keep flare-ups at bay. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), as many as 7.5 million Americans suffer from psoriasis—a chronic, non-contagious skin disease that affects the life cycle of skin cells. For most people, skin cells take about one month to move from the lowest skin layer to the outermost layer, where they die and flake off.

Skin cancer rates are likely to increase in the coming years. Find out how behavioral and dietary changes can reduce your risk. One out of every five Americans will develop skin cancer during his or her lifetime, and many health experts believe that percentage will increase in coming decades. With global warming on the rise, people are increasingly being exposed to stronger ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which forms free radicals, damages healthy cells, and increases the risk for skin cancer.

Everyone needs vitamin D for good health, but a debate continues to burn in the medical community over the best ways to get this important nutrient. Many experts say adults should get 1,000 International Units (IU) of vitamin D per day. One cup of vitamin D-fortified milk provides 100 units, while 3 ounces of oil-based tuna provides another 200 units. But is it wise to soak up UV rays to get vitamin D? The debate is so hot that the Skin Cancer Foundation has called it The D Dilemma.

Knowing the symptoms of the different types of skin cancer--and where to look for them on your body--could save your life. Skin cancer can affect any area of your body exposed to sun, including the scalp. And believe it or not, it can even crop up in lesser-exposed areas like the palms of your hands, between your toes, even on your genitals. According to experts, cancerous skin lesions can appear suddenly or develop slowly, and the American Cancer Society advises that people see their doctors immediately if they see any of the following symptoms.

According to a new study, 2007 is shaping up to be a record year for global antibacterial product launches. Heightened levels of germaphobia have given rise to a huge influx of new products developed to sanitize home, work, public places, and even food. According to the Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD), new introductions of antibacterial non-food products increased from fewer than 200 worldwide in 2003 to some 1,610 in 2006—an impressive 713 percent growth rate.

As many as 15 million Americans suffer from some form of eczema. Here, 13 tips to help ease your symptoms. Eczema is a remarkably common skin condition, affecting some 15 million people in the United States. While not dangerous or contagious, the condition (also known as atopic dermatitis) is incurable and uncomfortable, usually causing red, swollen, and itchy skin.