Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that can affect anyone but is most common among young kids aged between 2 to 6 years old. (1)(2) It is generally mild and resolves on its own within two or three weeks, even faster if you take medication. However, it is also highly contagious, so you have to be careful about not spreading it to other people...
Proper hair care is extremely important to maintain the appearance and health of your hair. It doesn’t matter whether your hair is curly, straight, or wavy – all hair types require adequate nourishment, cleansing, and conditioning for healthy growth. The texture of your hair is closely related to your hair type. (1)(2) “Hair texture” is a blanket term that includes the volume, density, coarseness,...
Petroleum jelly is a by-product of petroleum and was first introduced as a commercial product in the 1800s by Robert Augustus Chesebrough. Chesebrough noticed that workers in an oil refinery used the jelly-like substance found at the bottom of oil rigs as a balm to heal minor scrapes and cuts. Petroleum jelly is a soft, waxy substance that is colorless and odorless and usually...
Niacinamide and vitamin C are both popular skin care ingredients found in several beauty products. While both are touted as excellent remedies individually, several myths surround the use of niacinamide and vitamin C together. Some sources state that they negate each other’s effects, while others suggest that using the two together can cause skin irritation. However, there is no scientific evidence behind these claims....
Cocoa butter and shea butter are vegetable fats credited with multiple dermatological benefits. Both of them are widely used in the cosmetics industry. This article will explore the key differences between the two to determine which one is better suited for your particular skin or hair concern. Key Differences Between Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter Criteria Cocoa Butter Shea Butter Origins Extracted from cocoa...
A healthy skin care routine is essential for maintaining the appearance and well-being of your skin. While many people use a number of skin care products such as face masks, moisturizers, and cleansers regularly, most of them are not aware of the properties of the different ingredients and the correct combinations of these products. (1) Rosehip oil and retinol are two major skin care...
Eyebrows are a defining feature of your face. (1) They can make your face look more symmetrical and structured. For this reason, many women trim or shape their eyebrows regularly. However, regular plucking and trimming can lead to thinning eyebrows, and losing eyebrow hair can be a distressing situation. A number of factors may lead to thinning brows, including alopecia areata, fungal infections such...
Hair loss is a distressing problem for many. In fact, it is estimated that more than 30 million people in the United States suffer from mild to severe forms of hair loss. Many factors are behind this condition. It may be hereditary or triggered by hormone imbalance, an autoimmune disorder, or certain medicines. Recently, there have been some reports of metformin, a common antidiabetic...
Marshmallow root (Althea officinalis) is a medicinal plant used to cure a variety of diseases. Although marshmallow root has been traditionally used as a medicine for cough, stomach ulcers, and skin diseases for ages, there is very limited scientific evidence of its healing capabilities. More research is needed to prove their medical benefits, but anecdotal evidence is aplenty. Marshmallow roots contain potent antimicrobial and...
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin disorder that does not pose any serious risk to your health. However, it can become a cosmetic concern, especially if it occurs on the face. People often develop dark spots or patches on the face that can make them self-conscious about their appearance. Such negative feelings can hamper their confidence and feed psychological as well as emotional distress. This...
