Attention Sun Worshippers, Sunning is toxic

Just because there are modalities which can help minimize or diminish sun spots, aging and other imperfections, doesn't mean you should still go out and spend hours in the sun or in a tanning bed. Tanning beds are ten times worse when it comes to UV rays and "irrepairable" damage. 

We get about 25 percent of our sun exposure by the time we're 18. 

Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR), which comprise both UVA and UVB rays from the sun, produces DNA damage that may lead to mutations in genes involved in the pathogenesis of skin cancer. Sunscreens that absorb or block UVR serve an important protective function. UVB is the main culprit in skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply associated with wrinkling, leathering, sagging and other effects of photoaging. UVA is not blocked by most windows. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. 

Is it possible to reverse sun damage?

Yes and no. According to dermatologists and plastic surgeons, most are saying yes, but really they are just minimizing the damage of lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity and lightening the hyperpigmentation. Light chemical peels, intense pulsed light (photofacial), ALA-PDT (aminolevulanic acid photodynamic therapy) v-beam laser, microdermabrasion are some of the non-ablative procedures that can help. Ablative resurfacing treatment, medium to deep chemical peels, fractionated laser such as the Fraxel repair, Active FX and Pearl laser. Other modalities include; photorejuvenation (IPL) and numerous topical products including RetinA and alpha hydroxy products to help you restore some but not all of the damage you have sustained. Always consult with a licensed dermatologist or plastic surgeon regarding your options and the potential side effects. 

Read more at; www.floridaspagirls.net

10 Fun ways to live longer

Top 10 Fun ways to Live Longer

We've all come across advise (tips, techniques, etc) to live longer, or healthier, we know we should exercise, that we should cut out trans fats, eat healthier and so on but here are the Top 10 FUN ways to live longer. Enjoy! Remember, everything in moderation.

1. Drink Red Wine (over 21 please) Red wine contains resveratrol an antioxidant. These work to protect the body against the effects of aging. One or two glasses of red wine a day can help keep your body young.

2. Eat Dark Chocolate. Dark chocolate also contains antioxidants that protect the body from aging. Find a good quality dark chocolate and eat a little bit each day. It is recommended two ounces, so don't overdue it. Eating chocolate may lower your blood pressure and cholesterol while providing an energy boost. 

3. Smile! Smiling is a great way to change your attitude, connect with people and give benefit to your body. Like relaxation, smiling can work to counteract the effects of some stress. When smiling we actually trick our body into believing that everything is good, thereby reducing stress. Like a switch, smiling can actually change your mood. 

4. Have more sex. (also for consenting adults) Sex and touching are thought to be essential parts of health. Sex releases and assortment of beneficial chemicals in the body. Intimacy helps us bond with someone special, strengthens relationships and increases our own self-worth. Frequent sex may event extend your life by years.

5. Relaxation- while stress brings harmful health effects, relaxation helps our bodies to rest, heal and function better. By practicing daily relaxation techniques, you can train yourself to turn off your stress and replace it with calm energy. this will improve your blood pressure, heart  rate and ability to cope with life's challenges.

6. Make Exercise Play - Physical games and sports are a great way to keep both your body and mind healthy! Simple exercise routines are great for maintaining balance, flexibility, endurance and strength. Group games and sports can give your mind a workout as well as you anticipate other people's actions and how to work together. 

7. Sleep, an essential body function. Most Americans don't get enough sleep. The body needs sleep to regenerate itself, renew and rejuvenate. The health benefits of sleep include more energy and better immune function to name a few.

8. Spend time with loved ones. Most people may not realize it, but relationships are an important aspect of their health, mentally and physically. Not only do strong bonds with people mean you will have help when you need it, being connected also means protection from loneliness, depression and mental illness. 

9. Solve puzzles. Mind games are a great way to stay involved and engaged in the world. Games can exercise different parts of your mind and entice your curiosity. If possible, choose social games like chess or bridge that exercise your brain while keeping you connected with others. 

10. Be positive. Having a positive attitude about aging can add more than seven years to you life, according to researchers. Find ways to have pleasure in your increasing age and enjoy learning. 

(modified, from Mark Stibich, Ph.D., About.com)