Dermatologists are researching a connection between the nervous system, acne, psoriasis and rosacea. Richard D. Granstein, MD, FAAD said, "Nearly everyone has some form of stress in their life, so it's difficult to determine whether stress can actually make the skin's appearance worse," "However, it's been known for a long time that the nervous system, which processes our stress, has an impact on conditions such as psoriasis." "If you interrupt the nerves' path to an area of a patient's skin affected by psoriasis, the psoriasis improves," said Dr. Granstein. "In addition, the condition improves if you inject local anesthetic into psoriasis patches. This information strongly suggests that nerves play a role in how psoriasis operates."
Although it is common belief that stress has an impact on skin aging, Dr. Granstein says it has not been proven to be the cause. However, skin issues like acne and rosacea can also be impacted by decreasing stress levels.

"If we could block specific steps in certain pathways between the nervous system and the skin – without impacting the whole body – we would likely have new ways to prevent or treat some skin disorders," said Dr. Granstein. "We're gaining a greater understanding of the mechanisms underlying many skin conditions, which will help us develop new therapies."

Isn’t it interesting that hair care products are ahead of skin care products when it comes to dropping the use of silicones (which are a mainstay ingredients in most personal care products). So why are hair care product companies more savvy? Great question, maybe because in consumer testing, people feel like the product weighs the hair down, or that’s what many of the TV ads say… or maybe because in Japan there have been reports of the negative effects of silicones on the scalp, or the current push from the popularity surge of Korean products, which are looking for solutions to silicones.

Why do skin care companies push an ingredient that is a plastic based polymer, with thousands of derivatives, some banned for use in the EU and Canada, and many known to be unsafe for the environment? Simple, silicones give products a silky glide and fill in minor imperfections in the skin, so when you touch your face and look in the mirror, your skin appears smooth. Savvy consumers know that your skin is the largest organ in your body, and one of the main functions of the skin is gas exchange. Hmmm, so what happens when you put a plastic based polymer over something that is suppose to breathe? For more info you can read our info page on silicones and skin care here:

http://greatnewskin.com/pages/siliconesandskincare

A bipartisan bill was introduced by U.S. Reps. Martha McSally (R-AZ), Don Beyer (D-VA), Joe Heck (R-NV) and Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), The Humane Cosmetics Act, H.R.2858, to ban the animal testing of cosmetic products and ingredients for cosmetics in the US, finally joining the US to more than 30 countries that ban animal testing of cosmetics.

Science fiction and skin care… University of Illinois scientists are working with skin care companies using a flexible electronic sensor that is similar to a quarter size sticker and holds 100K of data measuring skin hydration, temperature and blood flow. Researches can collect the data on environmental pollutants and UV damage as well to increase and affect the efficacy of skin care product ingredients. Read more here…

http://www.cosmeticsdesign.com/Formulation-Science/L-Oreal-bringing-wearable-electronics-out-of-the-lab-and-on-to-consumers

Ever wondered why plants aren’t affected by UV damage? Interesting isn’t it?
Did you know that just like us, the DNA in plants can be damaged by UVR (ultraviolet radiation) and cause a decrease in the growth of the plant? Scientists at Purdue University discovered that molecules in plants called sinapate esters protect the outer leaves of plants from UVR damage, kind of like a plant sunscreen. Timothy Zwier said, “ This molecule is a fantastic sunscreen and can absorb a remarkably broad spectrum of UV-B light – the entire spectrum”. “ It also is incredibly good at soaking up those rays, with each molecule capturing an impressive amount of UV-B light.” New possibilities for sunscreen and Anti-Aging product ingredients... 

More info: 

http://is.gd/oezGcf

Some pure ingredients from food sources in skin care products can still pose a problem for people with severe food allergies.

"Surprisingly, some of these products contain foods which are known to cause allergy," Professor Robyn O'Hehir, Director of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine said. "Goat's milk, cow's milk, nut oils and oats are common ingredients in 'natural' cosmetics." The study, in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, demonstrated a link between cosmetic use and food allergies.

"While unlikely to be a problem for most people, application of these to broken or eczematous skin may lead to a severe allergic reaction when the food is next eaten," Professor O'Hehir said. "To ensure allergies don't develop, if you have eczema, it's important to use skin care that is bland and avoid agents capable of sensitization, especially food."

What does your life, your skin, the sun and English Ivy have in common?

Would it surprise you that compounds in the roots of the English Ivy have UV protectant properties?
Curious isn’t it, the same liquid excreted by the roots of the Ivy that bind it to surfaces, is part of a really cool, as Professor Mingjun Zhang, from Ohio State University calls, “a superfamily of hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins present in the extracellular spaces of plant cells.”

What are they? Nanosperical araginogalactan proteins (AGPs).

The study submitted to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the USA, (PNSA), by the team, “Nanosperical arabinogalactan proteins are a key component of the high-strength adhesive secreted by English ivy” , shows promise for not just adhesives for medical and cosmetic applications, arabinogalactans have some other super properties… I’ve come across them before and let’s just say you’ll hear more about this one from me soon!

More info:

http://bit.ly/1Y6DdRO

Need help getting rid of sunscreen stains from your bathing suits or clothes? Certain chemical UV ingredients react with water and create rust stains, and others create grease stains. Helpful hints:
http://www.youbeauty.com/beauty/how-to-clean-sunscreen-stains-off-your-clothes/

Skin dehydration is not just a problem in winter. Environmental changes in the seasons, heating and air conditioning, UV damage, medical conditions and lifestyle choices such as smoking, and dietary intakes high in salt, sugar and stimulants such as coffee and tea, all have an impact on skin hydration.

Here are a few helpful product ingredients that professionals recommend.
Niacinamide: A form of Vitamin B-3 that impacts ceramides and fatty acids in the stratum corneum of the skin. Research has shown that Niacinamide can decrease transepidermal water loss (TEWL), by up to 20% in 24 days.₁
More info click here:  
http://greatnewskin.com/pages/what-is-microdermabrasion
http://greatnewskin.com/pages/what-is-hydrophilic-balanced
https://greatnewskin.com/pages/siliconesandskincare

Hyaluronic Acid: Well known and loved for its hydrating properties, it also plays a critical role in wound repair and the healing process. When the natural levels of Hyaluronic Acid in our skin degrades, the skin can become dehydrated and fine lines and crepey skin can become more prominent.₂
See:
http://greatnewskin.com/products/chrysalyx

Acetyl Hexapeptide: Not only has this ingredient had a dramatic impact on the visible signs of aged skin, it also plays an important role in skin hydration. Aquaporin is a protein in the skin that plays a key role in the movement of fluids between the basal layers of the epidermis and the strateum corneum, which impacts hydration and collagen production.
More info click here:  
https://greatnewskin.com/pages/wrinkle-secrets
See:
http://greatnewskin.com/products/naturdermx
See:
http://greatnewskin.com/products/the-wrinkle-buster
http://greatnewskin.com/products/mini-lift-system
http://greatnewskin.com/products/transformaxion-system

1. D Bissett, Topical niacinamide and barrier enhancement, Cutis 70 6 suppl 8–12 discussion 21–23 (Dec 2002)
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyaluronan

“Make my pores smaller!” that’s what Mary P. Lupo, Professor of Dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine says her patients ask her to do…

Leslie Baumann, professor and director of cosmetic dermatology at the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami, says genetics, skin type and age determine pore size, and as we age, the breakdown of collagen and elastin in our skin also has an effect on our pores.

Jeannette Graf, Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at New York University Medical Center says, "They begin to stretch and sag around the edges, which can make them look bigger. Pore-minimizing products will help your pores look clearer, and therefore appear smaller, if you use them on a regular basis.”

Dr. Mary P. Lupo says, exfoliation is key to a refined complexion, “ While we can't shrink our pores with any permanency, the right skin-care products and treatments can help keep the skin clear and tight, making pores less noticeable.” Dr. Lupo recommends the use of moisturizers that contain vitamin C or retinol. "These stimulate cell renewal and collagen production, which will firm up the connective tissue around the pores," Graf says. "Over time, they'll appear tighter and smaller."

Epidermx II is an easy effective way to improve the appearance of pore size. A quick nightly massage of 5-30 seconds removes all the debris from your day that is in your pores and boosts the ability of those great ingredients for absorption from Chrysalyx, which contains 4 antioxidants, Vitamins A, C and E, 16 botanicals, peptides, and DMAE to lift and rejuvenate the appearance of your skin – really! You’ll love it, best priced product of its kind and silicone – paraben free!

http://greatnewskin.com/products/basics

Did you know that Hand Rejuvenation is a big trend? Up to 90% of hand aging is due to UV damage and can be seen as age spots and a leathery texture. A great treatment is to massage Epidermx II on your hands daily and rinse - you’ll be surprised! Years ago when we first started out - this is what we did, the difference was visible even with children. Kind of like when you clean a carpet and you can see the area you just cleaned, it is that dramatic!

Scientists are developing silicone wafers to act as “nanogenerators” to charged particles. When the devices are activated by human, or mechanical movement, the result is electrical energy. The device is called a “biocompatible ferroelectret nanogenerator (FENG).” Wonder what you’ll do with that paper thin apparatus? How about charge your cell phones? Research is being done on applications for skin care and UV monitoring. More info: http://bit.ly/2hXb1k1

Boost the results of your Anti Aging products and the benefits of microdermabrasion...You won't believe the difference this one change in your skin care regime will have on your face!

http://greatnewskin.com/pages/benefits-of-microdermabrasion

Will sesame become the next government regulated product ingredient? If Senators Chris Murphy, Richard Blumenthal and Ed Markey have anything to say yes. In a recent letter to the acting FDA commissioner, the senators made a request that sesame be inspected for cross-contact and that it be listed by name on ingredient lists, similar to what is required for products containing nuts or made in facilities that produce products containing nuts.

Sesame seed oil is used commonly in anti aging skin care products and cosmetics. NaturDerm products do not contain sesame seed ingredients.

http://skininc.texterity.com/skininc/november_2015?pg=1#pg1

Are targeted ultra – personalized products in your future? In a recent study, 76% of US anti-aging skin care users say they look for products specific to a particular need. Product developers are looking into DNA, gene expression and enzymes for new ingredients that mimic responses in the body and “microbiomes”, and how they affect skin disorders like dermatitis, eczema and acne.

You may see a lot of DIY recipes on the web for home remedy “cure alls” like the one below for baking soda (everything from blackheads and large pores to face cleansing)…there is a reason why formulators have backgrounds in chemistry. Not that it is a requirement but what you use on your skin, and in your body has more effects than you may be aware of…

For example this recipe for baking soda cleanser, which if you click on the link below, you'll see the pH of baking soda, you will find a pH level of 9. Your skin has an acidic pH level for a good reason, bacteria love alkaline environments, especially dark moist ones, like the pores of the skin. This is why cleansers and products that are not pH correct, require you to use a toner after use, to correct the pH level.

So if you’re going to experiment with home remedies (including egg which has a pH of 8) you may want to consider either using products that are pH correct to your skin (all NaturDerm products are pH correct) or make sure to use an acidic pH toner.

NaturDerm Face Foam cleanses and tones the skin in one step: http://greatnewskin.com/products/face-foam

http://www.healthyfoodhouse.com/beautiful-skin-6-treatments-use-baking-soda/

http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_ideas/Chem_AcidsBasespHScale.shtml

Paper thin skin sensors that release colored pigment when you are over exposed to UV rays? The new technology is based on new nano technology research that is also being developed for “virtual” try-ons for make up and cosmetics.  More info: http://bit.ly/2hopNzf

Dry Water – Liquid Marbles? Sounds like something from a sci-fi movie doesn’t it? Discovered in 2001 from research dating back to 1968, you probably use cosmetics, skin care, Anti Aging and personal care products, like deodorants with this technology. What is it? Water droplets are coated in a hydrophobic powder that makes the water droplet roll – and be water-resistant. The video clip shows what happens when you coat a finger with a hydrophobic powder.

You can read more about hydrophobic compounds here:
http://greatnewskin.com/pages/what-is-hydrophilic-balanced

You can read more about silicones, which are hydrophobic compounds here:
http://greatnewskin.com/pages/siliconesandskincare

Great article on how to help lift sagging skin, lessen acne issues & dark under eye circles, smooth wrinkles, and relieve muscle tension and stress with facial massage. Meridian Massage has been shown to contour the face to help lift sagging skin and increase circulation for a more youthful appearance, improving skin tone & texture and radiance. 

http://skininc.texterity.com/skininc/january_2016?sub_id=Zus7FidfEa4b&folio=50&pg=52#pg52

Here's a great little article on chemical peels, microdermabrasion and dermabrasion... http://bit.ly/2dShxct  You can get great results without a $127 price tag for microdermabrasion, by maximizing the scientific properties of Corundum Crystal with daily use.  Epidermx II is the only product on the market with a proven 20 year track record of results, that is developed for daily use and used as a tool for skin health. Used daily you get the benefits plus remove daily dirt and grime that clog pores and cause blackheads, remove product residue and get rid of old dead hard skin, that only does one thing... make you look older!
http://greatnewskin.com/products/epidermxii

The FDA issued a final ruling on antibacterial hand soap and body wash. We’ve been expecting this one. No benefits have been proven for the use of antibacterial products vs. soap and water hand washing, and the ruling bans OTC (Over The Counter) consumer sales for all antiseptic wash products that are used with water, and contain antibacterial active ingredients. It does not apply to wipes, or hand sanitizers. Triclosan and Triclocarban are 2 big of the big ones, and Triclosan is under review, by the EPA and FDA. Antibacterial soaps used in health care settings (hospitals and nursing homes) are exempt.

Now does that make sense???

Here’s a link to the specifics: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm378393.htm

Could nano-silver be in your future hand soap or skin care product?
NC State University scientists have successfully developed a product that targets harmful bacteria like E. coli that can cause food poisoning,
with nanoparticles containing silver. Their method allows researchers to target specific bacteria and is also being looked at for the possible use of an environmentally friendly pesticide.