MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'beauty'. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 18:17:54 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378594&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F03%2F18%2Fwho-sells-the-best-beauty-products%2F You probably don’t think about the types of companies that make your cosmetics and beauty products but if you did, you might make different choices in the products you buy. Big and Small companies The majority of beauty products you can buy at supermarkets & department stores are made by big companies like P&G, Colgate-Palmolive, L’Oreal, Unilever, etc. If you’re curious, here is a list of the Top 50 Us companies and this list of the Top 30 International companies. But most of the unique beauty products you can buy on the Internet or in specialty shops are produced by small companies, often mom n pop shops started by an enterprising marketer, chemist, or other person interested in the cosmetic business. So, you might wonder, what’s the difference? How are th... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378594 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 06:44:17 +0100 3378594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374237&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F03%2F17%2Fshould-you-avoid-fragrance-in-your-skin-products%2F Sere says…Hi Brains! I’m an Italian girl who’s trying to do her best to understand something in the complicated world of skin care. I read Paula Begoun’s opinion about fragrance, and from what I could understand, she’s quite severe. I mean she says we should definitely go for truly fragrance-free cosmetics, since fragrance, both synthetic and organic, cause irritation. Even when we cannot actually see skin reactions (like redness etc..), still it’s taking place underneath the skin’s surface, leading to long-term skin damage. So..that is what i wanted to know from you..is it true we should avoid fragrance in cosmetics such as face creams etc, even if we’re not allergic to any of the components of fragrance? Left Brain smells something fishy Wh... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374237 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:44:36 +0100 3374237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370540&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F03%2F16%2Fwhat-drugstore-brand-is-comparable-to-arbonne%2F ibteachnu asks…I can no longer afford Arbonne. What drugstore brands are comparable to their hydrating wash, balancing toner, facial serum, and day creme? I’ve already replaced their RE-9 foaming body wash with Olay’s age defying body wash. What are your thoughts on that product? Right Brain responds After that big battle about Arbonne, we no longer let Left Brain answer questions about Arbonne, so this one is mine. Arbonne Hydrating Wash At almost $40 for a 3 ounce bottle of the Arbonne Hydrating Wash, it’s no wonder you can’t afford Arbonne anymore. No cleanser is worth that expense. Cleansers are put on and then rinsed away. Unless the skin is specially prepared before-hand, cleansers have limited ability to deliver anything to the skin. They simply remove... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370540 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 06:12:02 +0100 3370540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331429&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F03%2F04%2Fman-with-worlds-longest-hair-dies%2F What kind of beauty science blog would we be if we didn’t report on this story: The man with the world’s longest hair just died. Tran Van Hay, who lived in Vietnam and passed away last week at the age of 79 is on record as having the longest hair in the world, according to the Guinness World Records.  At the time of his death it was estimated to be  6.8 meters (more than 23 feet! The last time his hair was officially measured, in 2004, it was 5.6 meters or 18 feet.) Ladies of the Long Hair Community, eat your hearts out! What’s the longest hair you’ve ever known anyone to have? Leave a comment and share your thoughts with the rest of the Beauty Brains community. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331429 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 06:01:36 +0100 3331429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3327329&cid=t_110820_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fi-love-health-articles-at-accuweather.html This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of AccuWeather. All opinions are 100% mine.What a treat to be asked to write about AccuWeather because I use it ALL the time! We have had such strange weather this year, in fact a huge 2+ foot snowstorm at the end of last week, and I was at the AccuWeather site on a regular basis because my husband had to work those days, and I was concerned for his safety. This week when I went for my usual visit one day, I was met with a pleasing-to-the-eye and less-cluttered, change that has been made to the site! After I put in my zip code and pulled up the information about our area, I bookmarked the page, everything local to my area is now on that page when I go visit...even relevant videos. We are a blog that focuses on health and nutrition, and ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3327329 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:38:00 +0100 3327329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3314788&cid=t_110820_140_f&fid=35439&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbipolarsoupkitchen-stephany.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fonly-once.html (Source: soulful sepulcher) soulful sepulcher blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3314788 Sat, 27 Feb 2010 04:09:00 +0100 3314788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3314620&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2010%2F02%2Ftooth-whiteners-who-can-safely-use-them-and-how-often.html Americans have been snapping up at-home tooth-whitening kits; in 2008 consumers spent $343 million on them. The products can help somewhat, our recent tests show. But can a person use tooth-whitener strips or trays too often? Maybe so, according to the American Dental Association. It says that if used improperly, the chemicals in the products might damage your gums and teeth. Indeed, some of our testers complained of irritation or other discomfort while using them. The ADA also worries that unsupervised use might mask an undiagnosed medical condition, such as celiac disease, which can cause tooth discoloration. And the long-term safety of tooth whiteners is still unknown, especially for those containing a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide, the bleaching agent. In 2008 the European... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3314620 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:44:35 +0100 3314620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3306956&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F25%2Fis-it-okay-to-change-the-way-a-flower-smells%2F As Shakespeare once said: “A rose by any other name would smell like root beer.” Actually that’s what the great Bard would have said if had he read this Discovery.com story about customized flower fragrances. Root beer roses Scientists at the University of Florida have figured out how to change the scent of a flower by genetically altering the plant – they have literally made roses that smell like root beer and petunias smell like wintergreen. In addition to custom-scented bouquets, this discovery could also lead to new perfume notes. The research is not as frivolous as you might think, though. They’re actually trying to find ways to increase pollination of fruit producing plants to increase crop yield. What do YOU think? Would you want “designer flowers... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3306956 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 06:05:02 +0100 3306956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302438&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F24%2Fliquid-glass-for-hair%2F Professor Auntie asks…Do you think we’ll be spraying liquid glass on our hair soon? The Left Brain says: Auntie is referring to a story I Tweeted about a few days ago about “SiO2 ultra-thin layering” technology. According to Physorg.com this sprayable glass coating, consisting of nano-sized silicon dioxide particles in water or ethanol, could revolutionize “almost everything” because it can protect any surface from environmental factors like moisture,  UV radiation, dirt, heat, and even bacteria. Follow the link to read more about this fascinating new discovery. Glass for hair? Considering the protective properties of this technology and given that the coating is flexible and invisible, there is certainly potential application to hair care. If this pro... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302438 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 06:00:40 +0100 3302438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3298448&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F23%2Fanother-iphone-beauty-app%2F We usually blog about anti-aging technology but here’s a new gadget that actually ages you: it’s a beauty app for the iPhone that makes you look older. It’s called “Hour Face” and it’s designed to take a picture of your face and show you how you’ll look when you’re an octagenarian – and beyond. The effect is a little bit creepy – check out the video to see for yourself. We’ve blogged about iPhone beauty apps before. What do you think about beauty apps for your smart phone? Like ‘em or loathe ‘em? Leave a comment and share your thoughts with the rest of the Beauty Brains community. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3298448 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 06:01:16 +0100 3298448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3275951&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F16%2Fbeauty-science-reporting-gone-bad-warrior-blondes%2F I got a lot of crap last week for my post on “Why Guys May Like You Better If You Don’t Wear Perfume.” As one of our readers pointed out, it was supposed to be tongue in cheek but apparently I failed miserably. But even my lousy science writing wasn’t nearly as bad this beauty science story linking hair color and aggression. Bad ass blondes? According to the Times Online, a study at the University of California showed that women with lighter hair color are more aggressive and “warlike.” Shocking, eh? But before all the blondes in the audience start sending in hate mail, let me tell you the rest of the story. Thank god for science bloggers like Ryan Sager at True Slant who do their homework. Ryan questioned the results in the Times article so he sent an e... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3275951 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:05:55 +0100 3275951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267040&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F12%2Fthe-beauty-brains-blog-blast-12%2F Enjoy these brainy beauty blasts by beau coup blogs. All Lacquered Up is up for OPI’s ogre-based Shrek nail polish collection. Base Note’s Fragrance Project is like American Idol for perfume. Beauty and Fashion Tech is eyeballing ecoTOOLS’ eye brush kit. Beauty Blogging Junkie shares the secrets of a successful clothing swap night. The Beauty Brains have pissed off the universe over ovulation. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267040 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 06:01:56 +0100 3267040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262604&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2010%2F02%2Fhow-long-to-brush-your-teeth-electric-toothbrush-ratings-flouride-toothpaste-.html How many minutes do I need to brush my teeth to get the full fluoride benefit? —F.P., Morse, Texas  Fluoride toothpastes clearly reduce the risk of cavities, but studies have not determined the minimum brushing time needed for that benefit. In theory, brushing for at least two minutes twice a day should lead to sufficient fluoride absorption. And most people need at least that long to adequately remove plaque, which contributes to gum disease and tooth decay. But don’t exceed three minutes: Excessive brushing could damage the teeth, gums, and any exposed root surfaces. For more on dental health, see our tips for cleaner teeth and our new report and Ratings on electric toothbrushes (subscribers only).  (Source: Consumer Reports Health B... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262604 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100 3262604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259089&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F10%2Fwhy-guys-may-like-you-better-if-you-dont-wear-perfume%2F In a study that’s sure to be controversial, the journal Psychological Science reports (via Science Daily) that women may be wasting billions of dollars every year on perfume because the natural odor may be more attractive to men. Periodic perfumery The study was designed to test the hypothesis that male testosterone levels can be  effected by odor signals from females, especially during ovulation. The researchers had male volunteers sniff tee shirts worn by women in different phases of their menstrual cycles. The amount of testosterone in the men’s saliva was then measured. The results showed that guys who smelled the shirts of ovulating women had more testosterone in their spit. Even more interesting, these guys rated the odor of the shirts worn by ovulating women as more ple... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259089 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 06:05:16 +0100 3259089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251285&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F08%2Fbeauty-science-for-valentines-day%2F Today’s post is a shout out for anyone looking for a good Valentines Day present for their beauty-obsessed, science-geeky gal pals. Flowers and candy are always nice on Valentines Day, but, being chemists, the Beauty Brains also like presents that combine two of our favorite hobbies (beauty science and kissing.) Like this “Make Your Own Lip Balm Kit!” It’s got everything you need to build your own lip lock laboratory of love – including skin-softening emollients, yummy flavors, and other ingredients that we talked about in our post on how lip gloss works. Have you tried any DIY cosmetic kits? Leave a comment and share with the rest of the Beauty Brains community. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251285 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 06:25:19 +0100 3251285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3239686&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F04%2Fthe-puffery-plan-how-cosmetic-advertising-tricks-your-brain%2F We often use the phrase “puffery” to describe some of the claims made by cosmetic companies.  To help understand what we mean by that term, we’ve found an excellent reference from the Journal of Consumer Research. (Via ScienceDaily) Puffery claims explained Authors Alison Jing Xu and Robert S. Wyer, Jr. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign define claims as puffery if they “purport to be of great importance but are actually inconsequential and often meaningless.” By this definition, claims based on technical details that are only valid to experts in the field but that are not necessarily perceived by the consumer could be considered puffery. We see this all the time with ads that make statements like “makes your hair 5x stronger.” Ye... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3239686 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 06:05:21 +0100 3239686 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231648&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F02%2F02%2Fhow-eyeliner-can-save-your-life%2F Did you know that wearing eye liner can actually make you healthier. Well, it could if  you had lived in ancient Egypt. Love for lead Scientists have long known that ancient Egyptians used lead based compounds in their cosmetics but they weren’t aware of the long term health risks associated with lead poisoning (such as brain damage and miscarriages.)  But now, according to ScienceNow, new research hints that their love of lead may have actually prevented some eye diseases. The article describes how chemists working at the Louvre Museum in Paris found a synthetic lead salt in the museum’s collection of Egyptian cosmetic artifacts.  This salt is not found in nature which means that ancient Egyptians had to make it. But why? The answer might lie in ancient manuscripts that say... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231648 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:01:46 +0100 3231648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3208522&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F01%2F26%2F7-sources-for-cosmetic-ingredient-information%2F Are you curious about cosmetic ingredients? Every product sold in the United States is required to put a listing of the ingredients they use but do you ever wonder what those chemicals are? I know I did. During my college days I would read the ingredients on the shampoo bottle and wonder, what are these chemicals? To find out used to require a trip to the local library, a copy of the CTFA Dictionary and a degree in chemistry. But no longer! Here are 7 FREE websites that list information about cosmetic ingredients. Some of them are searchable (just type in the ingredient name) while others are listed alphabetically. If you’re curious about an ingredient, just look it up. Then if you still have questions, be sure to get it to us by clicking on the button to Ask the Brains. Cosmetic Ingredi... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208522 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 06:01:53 +0100 3208522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201890&cid=t_110820_140_f&fid=35439&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbipolarsoupkitchen-stephany.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fsaturday-poem.html (Source: soulful sepulcher) soulful sepulcher blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201890 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 17:39:00 +0100 3201890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197768&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F01%2F22%2Fthe-beauty-brains-blog-blast-9%2F It’s a Friday focus on our favorite fashion and beauty friends. Click away! Stylebakery Beauty is excited about new scents for 2010. Check out her list of fragrant faves. Talking Makeup is talking about Vera Farmiga’s golden globes. Temptalia asks “What’s your philosophy on makeup?” The Beauty Stop has a big M.A.C. attack. The Beauty Brains can’t stop blabbering about bath bombs. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197768 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 06:13:02 +0100 3197768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189259&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F01%2F20%2Fbeauty-science-app-for-your-iphone%2F I’ve been more obsessed than usual lately with beauty science gadgets. So of course I have to blog about this new iPhone application that warns you about ‘dangerous’ cosmetic ingredients. iPhone ingredient info CosmeticsDesign reports that the app, from the firm Cosmetifique, has a searchable database of over 5,000 ingredients in the International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients format, the official naming convention for cosmetic ingredients. You simply type in the ingredient of choice and the search results show up as red, orange or green to indicate whether the ingredient is great, good, or bad. Sounds good, huh? I thought so too until I read the following quote from the application designer Alfredo Delli Bovi: “We talked to make-up gurus and 90 percent of them preferre... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189259 Wed, 20 Jan 2010 06:05:02 +0100 3189259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3185480&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F01%2F19%2Fnew-beauty-science-gadget-solves-saggy-skin%2F HAPPI magazine reports that Ulthera Inc., a Mesa, AZ company has gained Food and Drug Administration approval to market a new device that can help cure saggy skin. The device is already for sale to plastic surgeons and dermatologists for facial tightening and eyebrow lifting and the company claims to be developing a handheld version for consumers that will treat acne and rejuvenate skin. The dermatologist version sells for $89,000, so let’s hope the home version is just a tad cheaper. It will also be interesting to see how its anti-acne efficacy stacks up against other beauty gadgets like Thermaclear. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3185480 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 06:03:04 +0100 3185480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3182265&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F01%2F18%2Fcan-toothpaste-make-you-fail-a-breathalyzer-test%2F Here’s an interesting news story from CosmeticsDesign.com about Massachusetts Senator Anthony Galluccio’s drunk driving arrest.  The reason this caught the attention of my “beauty brain” is that the Senator claimed his that his toothpaste made him fail a breathalyzer test. Could this be true? Tipsy toothpaste The controversy centers around the ingredient sorbitol, a sugar alcohol which is used in toothpaste to provide sweetness and help maintain the water content of the paste.  Galluccio regularly uses either Sensodyne Toothpaste and Colgate Total Whitening  and reportedly a physician told him that these products could cause a positive breathalyzer result. However, James Herms, a formulator who helped develop Sensodyne formulas says that sorbitol ‘is not going ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3182265 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 06:05:14 +0100 3182265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3178873&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F01%2F16%2Fare-you-tasty-beauty-news-bits%2F Did you know that some people in the world are more tasty to mosquitoes than other? This and other fascinating facts have been found by studying the field of biomimicry. Many of the cosmetic and personal care products you use everyday came as a result of studying nature. Here’s a story about research on a brand new insect repellant. These scientists really crack me up. Listen to what they did. Mosquito madness First, they convinced people to volunteer to be exposed to hundreds of mosquitoes. (Some people will do anything for a buck). They created this Y-shaped chamber and had two volunteers place a hand under one of the opening. The itch-inducing insects then flew down the chamber looking for some blood to suck. It turns out that mosquitoes really do prefer some people over others. And t... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3178873 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 06:01:00 +0100 3178873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3135507&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F12%2Fab-rocket-treadmill-condom-latisse-eye-cream-sunscreen-kinoki-dont-buy.html We’ve blogged about healthful gifts you can feel good about buying yourself, especially if you have holiday gift money burning a hole your pocket. Now we’ve come up with a list of nine items that aren’t worth your money, either because they performed poorly in our tests, they pose a potential risk to your health, or both. Don’t worry if you already picked up one of these items or received it as a gift. Just find the box, put the product in it, and get yourself to the returns-and-exchanges counter promptly. These products offer no way to start a new decade: 1. The Ab Rocket exercise machine. This $100 infomercial gadget worked abdominal muscles less than a regular crunch—yes, the kind you can do for free on your own floor. Some of our testers felt like their heads were i... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3135507 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 16:36:31 +0100 3135507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3129479&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F006823.html Ideal beauty down to facial proportions. TORONTO, ON – Beauty is not only in the eye of the beholder but also in the relationship of the eyes and mouth of the beholden. The distance between a woman's eyes and the distance between her eyes and her mouth are key factors in determining how attractive she is to others, according to new psychology research from the University of California, San Diego and the University of Toronto. Pamela Pallett and Stephen Link of UC San Diego and Kang Lee of the University of Toronto tested the existence of an ideal facial feature arrangement. They successfully identified the optimal relation between the eyes, the mouth and the edge of the face for individual... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3129479 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3129479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3124618&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F28%2Fdry-shampoo-dog-shampoo-or-no-poo-at-all%2F Happy holidays from Sarah Bellum! Lefty and Righty are busy returning Christmas presents so I thought I’d write a couple year end posts to share some of my favorite posts of 2009 (Hey it’s either that or another boring news story from Mid Brain.) Sooooo, today I’m going to stroll down memory lane for shampoos. The big news this year was shampooing WITHOUT shampoo. Or at least without any water. Dry shampoos and the No Poo method were hot topics. Humans are not the only animals with dirty hair. Find the best dog shampoo to clean your canine. Read this one if you need some clarity on how clarifying shampoos work. Baby shampoos are safer than soup? WTF? And if you’re out of soup and baby shampoo, you can always wash your hair with dish detergent. You can forget Climat... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3124618 Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:01:19 +0100 3124618 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3122133&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F26%2Fbeauty-research-make-up-really-helps%2F Many women spend countless hours a year putting on cosmetics and making sure they look just right before going out. Did you ever wonder if it was all worth it? Is the make-up really making you look that much more attractive? According to a team of psychologists out of the UK, it is. In their study, they found that men are more attracted to women with more coloring on their face. And they suggest that there is a good biological basis for this fact. They theorize that women with higher levels of estrogen naturally have more color than those with lower levels. And a higher level of estrogen is indicative of a more fertile woman. According to evolutionary theory, men should be inclined to find more fertile women more attractive. The experiment involved measuring hormone levels of a group of vo... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3122133 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 06:01:04 +0100 3122133 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3120494&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F25%2Fchristmas-beauty-ingredients%2F We all have our favorite memories of the season – Christmas trees, stockings stuffed with gifts, the beauty of a new fallen snow. But nothing says “happy holidays” quite like this study I found on the composition and pharmaceutical activity of chondroitan sulfate obtained from reindeer trachea. That’s right, I said “reindeer trachea.” Although chondroitan sulfate is usually employed as a joint medication, chondroitan-based ingredients do make their way into a variety of skin care beauty products. Could jolly ol’ Santa be secretly harvesting reindeer trachea for big Pharma? Run Rudolph, run! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Beauty Brains! (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3120494 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 06:01:03 +0100 3120494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3118962&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F24%2Fthe-beauty-brains-blog-blast-6%2F We’re running our link love post a day early since tomorrow is Christmas! Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains shares their 13 best makeup tools. It’s not too late to stuff those stockings! Hair On The Brain has pixie lust (no, its not about Tinkerbell.) Hair Thursday is all about Sedu straighteners. Nadine Jolie nails American Apparel Polishes. The Beauty Brains give you the straight dope on the safety of Brazilian hair straightening. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3118962 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 06:01:34 +0100 3118962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3111411&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F12%2Ftoothpaste-cancer-concerns-does-toothpaste-containing-triclosan-pose-a-cancer-risk.html You previously warned that triclosan, an ingredient in antibacterial soaps, produces a carcinogenic chemical when it reacts with chlorine in tap water. Do toothpastes containing triclosan present a cancer danger? —R.M., New York City It seems unlikely. Pilot studies raising that cancer concern looked at soaps containing triclosan, not toothpastes. Evidence suggests that even with soaps, the amount of the carcinogen released is comparable to that normally found in some tap water. And the reactions documented in the most recent, widely publicized soap study require much more chlorinated water than you’d come in contact with when brushing your teeth. Triclosan in toothpaste thus isn’t likely to be a concern, according to the study’s author. The American Dental Association has ... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3111411 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:57:51 +0100 3111411 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3111519&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F22%2Fsense-of-smell-sells-more-product%2F We all like to buy perfumes and lotions and other nicely scented cosmetics. But according to a ScienceDaily, researchers have discovered that adding scent to a product that doesn’t normally have a smell can make it more memorable. Scent savvy The combined team of researchers from University of Michigan, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, and Rutgers University used pencils to prove that scent enhances a product’s distinctiveness. While this may seem like an obvious finding, they found that uncommon scents made for stronger memories. For example, tea tree oil scented pencils were more memorable than pine scented pencils. And not only were the memories stronger, they were also longer lasting. The article speculates that savvy marketers may begin adding scent to previous... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3111519 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 06:00:57 +0100 3111519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3108331&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fwould-you-take-an-anti-aging-pill%2F It seems that getting old is the worse thing that can happen to some people. I mean, it must be if you think about all the money and effort that is spent in trying to maintain the appearance of youth. Personally, I think growing old is a great thing considering the alternative: not growing old at all because you’re dead. Seriously. I’m not shy about saying that I’m 48 years old. That means in a year and a half I’ll be 50 – a half a century. Wow, that sounds kind of shocking when you say it that way, but it is what it is, right? There’s a difference between wanting to look good and wanting to look like something you’re not. Looking good, looking healthy, is great. Looking like you’ve been to the plastic surgeon too many times, injected too man... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3108331 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 14:02:12 +0100 3108331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089284&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F12%2Fdandruff-shampoos-that-stop-dandruff-best-treatment-for-dandruff.html Which shampoo is best for stopping dandruff? —G.B., Ossining, N.Y. It varies by person, since different shampoos target different causes of dandruff. As a first choice, try a product containing pyrithione zinc (Head & Shoulders) or selenium sulfide (generic, Selsun Blue), which attack excessive skin growth on the scalp—a possible cause of dandruff—and are the least irritating to the skin. If that doesn’t help, consider a shampoo with ketoconazole (Nizoral A-D), which combats the fungus P. ovale, another potential source of dandruff. If the problem doesn’t improve after about two weeks, try a more potent, exfoliating shampoo containing sulfur (Maximum Strength Meted, Sulfoam) or salicylic acid (P&S, Scalpicin, X-Seb), which can help loosen up and clear away dead, flaky s... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089284 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:30:00 +0100 3089284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089408&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F15%2Fis-organic-beauty-baffling-to-you%2F Back in 2007 we blogged before about the confusion over organic cosmetics.  Apparently the problem isn’t getting better because a recent study by Cegma Topo reveals that even though a third of French women buy organic skincare products, they still don’t know what ‘organic’ really means. Organically outrageous Common perceptions are that organic products are made from natural ingredients, they are free from chemicals (my all time favorite stupid claim) free of parabens and are formulated to be environmentally responsible. However, they couldn’t really tell how products that are positioned as “natural” products are different from those positioned as “organic.” It’s really not surprising that such confusion exists because there is no standa... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089408 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 06:05:20 +0100 3089408 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089538&cid=t_110820_140_f&fid=35439&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbipolarsoupkitchen-stephany.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Flove-song.html (Source: soulful sepulcher) soulful sepulcher blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089538 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 02:10:00 +0100 3089538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084770&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F12%2Ftreating-bad-breath-is-there-a-cure-for-bad-breath-causes-of-gum-disease-.html Can anything stop extreme bad breath? —S.A., Novi, Mich. Possibly. In addition to careful brushing and flossing, you can try using a mouthwash that contains cetylpyridinium (Scope and generic) or prescription chlorhexidine (Peridex and generic); chewing cinnamon-flavored gum; using a tongue cleaner to gently scrape odor-causing bacteria away; and avoiding strong-smelling foods. And get checked for underlying gum disease or oral infection, which can support the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath. In rare cases, bad breath can indicate a serious condition such as kidney disease or a lung infection, so see your doctor if those self-help steps don’t work. Read more on preventing gum disease, find out how to reduce bacteria in your mouth, and find out which treatment (subsc... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084770 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:51:52 +0100 3084770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3082480&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F12%2Fbeauty-news-bits-can-you-trust-cosmetic-claims%2F While we here at The Beauty Brains don’t usually put much stock in “research” done by television stations, in this story they got things mostly right. Essentially, they found that cosmetics which claim to be “dermatologist recommended, skin organics and hydrating,” are really misleading. Here’s what these claims really mean. “Dermatologist recommended” Companies make this claim simply by paying a dermatologist to endorse their product. Unfortunately, some of these doctors will do anything to make a buck. Don’t even get me started on Perricone! The prices he charges for the products he sells are unconscionable. But we digress… “Hydrating” The amount of moisture that a skin product actually adds to your skin is miniscule. The real benefit comes from the barrier that t... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3082480 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 06:01:00 +0100 3082480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3082599&cid=t_110820_140_f&fid=35439&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbipolarsoupkitchen-stephany.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Flove-poem.html (Source: soulful sepulcher) soulful sepulcher blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3082599 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:49:00 +0100 3082599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079333&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F12%2Fis-romance-ruining-your-waistline.html “You’ve let yourself go now that you’re married.” “You’re looking very matronly.” “You’re getting mom-hips.” These are just some of the loving comments I’ve heard from my brothers since I got married fifteen years ago. But are we destined to gain weight once we’re married? According to a study published last July in the journal Obesity, love + marriage = weight gain isn’t inevitable, but the odds are stacked in favor of some weight gain. The study looked at almost 1300 “romantic partners” and found women who lived with a partner for at least a year increased the likelihood of being obese. For men, the odds of being obese doubled after 1 year of cohabitation. The study also found that couples who lived together for two or more years were sig... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079333 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 15:15:00 +0100 3079333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3071153&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F12%2Fpresents-gifts-for-yourself-healthy-snacks-gifts-ideas.html Sure, it’s the season of giving, but what about that most special of gift recipients—you? Here are 12 health-enhancing gifts you can feel good about buying yourself this holiday season or anytime. All are based on our independent testing and research, so you know they’re worth buying. Feel guilty about treating yourself? Don’t: Two-thirds of Americans we surveyed in November who planned to shop Black Friday weekend said they intended to get something for themselves. For your bod A membership to the Y. When we surveyed more than 10,000 subscribers about their experiences with health clubs, we found that YMCAs, Jewish Community Centers, and local community centers got higher marks from their members than most commercial gym chains, including Gold’s Gym and Bally’s. Our surve... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3071153 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:23:31 +0100 3071153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3067172&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F08%2Fscent-and-sensibility-hot-new-trends-for-2010%2F HAPPI magazine reports that trend-tracker Mintel expects mood changing scents to be big in 2010. Mintel predicts that the high-stress lifestyles that consumers are currently experiencing will drive them to look for simple olfactory escapes. They give examples of a pina colada scented candle that could bring back memories of a beach vacation and an air freshener that smells like pumpkin spice scent that could be reminiscent of the holidays. A second scent trend that they forecast involves simple clean scents. We should expect to see products like body lotions,  dish detergents, and air fresheners with few- or single-component scents. Flavor Fave Even more intriguing are Mintel’s prediction for flavor trends for next year. Here are their top 6 flavor notes to watch out for: Cardamom ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3067172 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 06:01:44 +0100 3067172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3059802&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F05%2Fbeauty-news-bits-false-advertising-by-loreal%2F According to a recent article in Ad Age, consumers are suing L’Oreal for false advertising. The nature of the misleading advertisement is that their Fructis shampoos and conditioners can make your hair 5 times stronger. See the post we recently did on how companies measure hair strength. Looks like a few consumers really didn’t notice any difference in hair strength. It’s not surprising. What is surprising is that this is a real court case. This Brain can’t help but think this is a waste of the American taxpayer’s money and court time. Who is really harmed by these claims? And who wants hair that is 5 times stronger? Would you really want your hair to be as strong as steel? Puffery the Magic Dragon An interesting aspect of this story is the notion of a “puffery” claim. These ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3059802 Sat, 05 Dec 2009 06:01:00 +0100 3059802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3052251&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F12%2F03%2Fbacteria-are-your-skins-bff%2F We’ve all heard how important antibacterial products are but let’s not rush to condemn ALL bacteria. A recent study by researchers at the University of California has revealed that the normal bacteria we all have on our skin can help reduce injury-related inflammation. Hello hygiene! “These germs are actually good for us” declared Richard L. Gallo, MD, PhD, chief of UCSD’s Division of Dermatology. Gallo also pointed out that this work gives us a basis for understanding the alleged ‘hygiene hypothesis,’ an idea introduced in the late 1980s that suggests if you’re not exposed to dirt and germs as a child that you may actually have a lower resistance to certain kinds of inflammation. (This theory could explain why certain childhood allergies are... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3052251 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 06:01:41 +0100 3052251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3044746&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F12%2Fsuppressed-anger-may-lead-to-heart-attacks.html What’s your response if you’re unfairly blamed for an error, or given more than your fair share of tasks at work? Do you blow your top and let everyone know? Or are you more likely to bite your tongue and keep your thoughts to yourself? The answer could be more important than you think. A new study shows that men who bottled up their anger at work were more likely than their co-workers to have a heart attack. Too few women in the study had heart attacks for the researchers to do a similar calculation for women. Men who said they often walked away, or said nothing, when in a work situation they perceived as unfair, had five times the risk of dying from heart disease or having a heart attack during the next 10 years. But before you march over to your boss and tell him or her exactly... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3044746 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:08:22 +0100 3044746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3039888&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F30%2Ftop-10-beauty-science-toys%2F (Since it’s Cyber Monday Lefty and Righty said I could rerun last year’s post on beauty science toys.) The mission of the Beauty Brains is to educate our community on the science behind beauty care. It’s especially important to get this message to Teens and Tweens who may not have the critical thinking skills they’ll need to sort out the BS from the Beauty Science. Unfortunately, many kids are turned off by science because it’s not presented to them in an entertaining and meaningful way. Fortunately, there are a number of educational toys on the market that make learning about science fun. So to do our part to help spread the word about science education (and to help you with gift shopping ideas) we present… The Beauty Brains Top 10 Beauty Science Toys 1. Powerpuff... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3039888 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 06:01:04 +0100 3039888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3037077&cid=t_110820_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fmost-wonderful-time-of-year.html In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice;in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil.Let all who take refuge in you be glad;let them ever sing with joy.Spread your protection over them,that those who love your name may rejoice in you.For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous;you surround them with your favor as with a shield.O Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath.Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am faint;O Lord, heal me, for my bones are in agony.My eyes grow weak with sorrow; they fail because of all my foes.The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer.My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.The song of my heart echoed in pictures & the words of Ps... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3037077 Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:42:13 +0100 3037077 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3029932&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F26%2Fthe-little-known-connection-between-your-hair-and-a-turkey-dinner%2F What does your hair have in common with turkey? They both contain a chemical called tryptophan. Tryptophan is one of the amino acids that make up the protein structure of hair. It is also easily degraded by UV radiation so when scientists measure sun damage to hair, they can measure how much tryptophan is lost. Hairy turkey Ok, that’s mildly interesting, but why is hair related to turkey? Because tryptophan is also found in turkey. In fact, it’s the chemical that people claim is responsible for making you sleepy after a big Thanksgiving dinner. Except that’s not really true. Snopes.com has an excellent debunking of the turkey-tryptophan myth. While it IS true that some forms of tryptophan can be a natural sedative, the kind in turkey (and many other meats as well) doesn&#... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3029932 Thu, 26 Nov 2009 06:01:20 +0100 3029932 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3026640&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fif-she-has-your-nose-shes-getting-surgery%2F Picture a couple having a conversation not long after their baby daughter was born – and the mother says to the father, “If she has your nose, she’s going to get surgery.” Sounds too way out there? Not if you’re in Venezuela, say researchers from the Central University of Venezuela. Venezuala has the honor (?) of holding the most international beauty pageant winners in the world. The women are known for their beauty – but a lot of that beauty is created, not natural. Of course, this isn’t unusual, cosmetic surgery to enlarge breasts, “fix” eyes, remove sags, and to make other so-called improvements aren’t unusual, even in the beauty pageant world. But it seems that Venezuala may have the corner on the market when it comes to expec... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3026640 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:05:16 +0100 3026640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023116&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F11%2Ftoneail-fungus-discoloration-treatment-home-remedy-remedies-cure-laser.html I used to cringe when my yoga instructor told us to “take off your socks.” The big toenail on my right foot was an ugly flakey brownish gray, a condition I’ve had for years. It may have started when I was taking Tae Kwon Do and kept landing on my big toe while trying to do roundhouse kicking. I don’t know which is more embarrassing, having a discolored toenail or being the only one in yoga class with socks on. I was also unhappy at the beach and the community pool in the summer. Yeah, I could paint my toenails, but I was hoping that if I let that big toe breathe, it would eventually get better. The toe was not only discolored but sometimes uncomfortable, so I went to a podiatrist who said he thought I had a nail fungus and gave me a liquid topical with a brush (much l... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023116 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:00:00 +0100 3023116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3018985&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F11%2Fbuzzword-teeth-bleachorexia-.html What does it mean? The compulsion for ever-whiter teeth. Why the buzz? Americans have been snapping up at-home tooth whitening kits. We spent $343 million in 2008 on these products, which claim to give you a brighter smile in a week or so. And they can brighten teeth somewhat, our tooth whitener tests show. But how much tooth bleaching is too much? Can a person overdo it by wearing teeth whitening strips or trays too often? The American Dental Association thinks so. While tooth whiteners may seem as innocuous as toothpaste, the ADA says if they’re applied improperly the chemicals in the products might damage your gums and teeth. And unsupervised use might mask an undiagnosed medical condition or an unknown allergy.  Moreover, tooth whiteners are not regulated by the Food an... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3018985 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:00:00 +0100 3018985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3017125&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F22%2Fbeauty-business-whos-who-in-hair-care%2F The primary goal of the Beauty Brains is to help you, our readers, become smarter shoppers by educating you about cosmetic products. While most of our posts deal with the science and technology of these products, we will occasionally post about the business side of the beauty industry as well. So, this post discusses who owns the beauty brands that we’re all so fond of. You just might be surprised when you learn your favorite salon brand comes from the same people who bring you Pantene. Let’s start with hair care brands. Did you know that consumer products GIANT Procter & Gamble (makers of everything from Tide to Pantene) also markets a large number of drug store AND professional salon brands? Yep, they do! Here’s a list of the hair care companies and brands that P&am... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3017125 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 06:01:16 +0100 3017125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3018968&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F006732.html Mexicans and Puerto Ricans of mixed races tend to marry those of similar racial mix ratios. A team led by Neil Risch and Esteban González Burchard of the University of California, San Francisco, took DNA samples from married couples in Mexican and Puerto Rican populations, examining around 100 genetic markers from across the genome. From these markers, the researchers were able to discern the proportions of Native American, European and African ancestry for each person. They found that within Mexican populations, people tended to pick partners with similar proportions of Native American and European ancestry, while in Puerto Rican populations couples had paired up based on their shared balance of European and African ancestry. Some easily measured physical characteristics... (Source: Futu... FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3018968 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3018968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3015371&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F21%2Fare-photofacials-worth-the-cost%2F Amy asks…I was wondering about photofacials. Are they either effective, worth it, or a good idea? The Right Brain responds: Effective? Yes, at least to some extent. Worth it? Maybe, if you can afford several thousand dollars and can wait a few months for results. Good idea? Read on and decide for yourself. Lasers have been used for decades to “burn” away upper layers of the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. They also have had some application in the treatment of acne and spider veins. Click here for a detailed description of the benefits and risks of laser skin resurfacing. In recent years, the FDA has approved “N-Lite” laser therapy for treatment of crow’s feat. This type of laser uses a specific frequency of light that stimlates collagen pro... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3015371 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 06:01:01 +0100 3015371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2993840&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F14%2F416%2F The next time you’re walking along the beach and come across a grayish, unidentifiable blob, you might not want to ignore it. According to this report, one family in Australia was doing just that when they stumbled across a sample of ambergris worth over $1 million! So why does this story make the Beauty Brains? Well, it turns out ambergris (or whale vomit) is one of the many natural materials used by perfume companies for creating fragrances. Apparently, one gram of the stuff is worth $20 (US). That’s over $9000 per pound! The natural material is not used very often anymore because it is extremely rare and it comes from whales (a protected species). Fortunately, crafty chemists have devised suitable synthetic replacements. See, just because something is natural doesn’t m... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2993840 Sat, 14 Nov 2009 06:02:29 +0100 2993840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2989270&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F13%2Fbeauty-brains-clicks-of-the-week%2F The Chic Click feature has fizzled so while the Left and Right Brains keep plugging away at book work, I thought I’d share some of the clicks from my RSS Feeds that were worth reading. The Beauty Addict has a funny rant about why sugar products always smell like lemons. The Future Derm takes a look at whether you want nanoparticles in your cosmetics. A Girl’s Gotta Spa has 5 tips for doing a DIY pedicure. Did you miss the raging debate about wearing thongs on the Real Simple blog? And of course you don’t want to miss the Beauty Brains dish on NYR Organic. Have you read something worth sharing? Leave a comment below. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2989270 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:25:02 +0100 2989270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2984898&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F12%2F5-places-to-make-your-own-cosmetics%2F There are a number of places on the Internet where you can get recipes for cosmetic products. We haven’t used all of these, but based on the information provided on the website & our vast knowledge about cosmetic chemistry (ok the Right & Left Brain’s knowledge), these are good places for budding young cosmetic chemists to start. DIY Cosmetic sites Creative Cosmetic Company – Former science, chemistry, and art teacher, Joan Brindle founded this company to introduce students to science and teach them to create unique bath and body products such as body butters, foaming soaps, lotions, bubble bars, glimmer sticks, etc. Could make a fun event if you’re near Seattle, Washington but maybe if you’re not, maybe you can get her to travel. Make Your Own Cosmeti... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2984898 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:19:37 +0100 2984898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2977406&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F10%2Fis-halloween-makeup-safe-for-kids%2F I was a little behind in my RSS articles but I stumbled upon a report about Halloween makeup to which the Beauty Brains had to weigh in. The fear mongering folks at the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics are at it again. According to their latest report, Halloween face paint is contaminated with lead, nickel, chromium and cobalt. They say this is because of the lack of regulation by the FDA and warn that exposure to these toxic (naturally occurring) chemicals “can lead to hyperactivity, impulsive behavior, IQ deficits, reduced school performance, aggression and delinquent behavior.” Finally, they recommend that parents “avoid using face paints on children until safety standards are put in place.” They further suggest that you “make your own face paint with food-grade ingredients.” Not... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2977406 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:04:31 +0100 2977406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2971972&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F07%2F5-more-myth-busting-sources-around-the-web%2F While the Beauty Brains focuses on dispelling myths about beauty products here are some others trying to burst the bogus bubble in other areas. 1. On Nutrition: See Medical News Today – Dispelling the Top 10 Nutrition Myths. 2. On Exercise: See About.com – Fitness Myths. 3. On General Science: See Livescience – Most Popular Myths in Science. 4. On Urban Legends: Try Snopes.com 5. On the Environment: Discover Magazine – Environmental Myths. And let’s not forget one of our favorite shows on TV. Mythbusters! We love Adam and Jamie. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2971972 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:11:05 +0100 2971972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2948381&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F01%2Fwomen-need-skin-products-more-than-men%2F It’s bad enough that men make more money than women for doing the same job, but this is just ridiculous. According to skin researchers in Germany, women’s skin ages faster than men’s! Life is so unfair. In their study, the researchers used pulses of laser light to measure the amount of collagen and elastin in the skin. Collagen is responsible for giving skin its strength and elasticity. As you get older your body produces less collagen so skin looks droopy and wrinkled. These researchers found that women lose collagen at faster rates than men. So if it seems like you have to work harder to keep your skin looking good than the men in your life, you’re right. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2948381 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 06:01:51 +0100 2948381 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2930933&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fbotox-for-breast-lifts%2F If you thought Botox (Clostridium botulinum toxin type A) was going away, you were wrong. Doctors are trying to find new ways to use this “wonder” product and some plastic surgeons think they’ve got the new best thing: breast enhancement via Botox. According to news reports out of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) annual meeting, injecting Botox into the pectoralis minor muscle in the chest, causes the back muscles to lift the breast, giving the appearance of a breast lift. It only works, however, on small-small breasts (A or B cups). The technique also helps fight against slouching, say doctors and patients. The women say that it’s more difficult to slouch after they’ve had the injection. On the other hand, some doctors say that improving your p... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2930933 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:07:49 +0100 2930933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2930976&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F10%2Flatisse-side-effects-safety-dtc-advertising-direct-to-consumer-pharmaceuticals.html The first time I saw this commercial for the eyelash-growing drug Latisse (bimatoprost) back in June, I almost wasn’t sure it was real. Sure, we’d blogged on Latisse several times since it received approval from the Food and Drug Administration in late 2008, mainly urging consumers to think hard before using it, given the cost and unsavory risks. But I still couldn’t quite believe the level of glam-infused over-the-topness the commercial imparted, making a powerful prescription drug that can cost more than $100 a month sound like just a really, really cool new makeup item (and featuring superstar Brooke Shields, no less). If I didn’t know better (and it wasn’t a Tuesday), I would have thought it was a Saturday Night Live skit, like this hilarious take on extended-cycle birth-cont... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2930976 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 22:00:00 +0100 2930976 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2924893&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F25%2Fbollywoods-tom-cruise-promotes-skin-lightening%2F Mid Brain reports: This story about Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan’s endorsement of a skin lightening product demonstrates just how controversial a cosmetic product can be.  Khan, who’s been described as the Tom Cruise of Bollywood, is being criticized for reinforcing prejudices and stereotypes.  The product he’s pitching is called Fair and Handsome and it’s supposed to make users lighter-skinned and confident.  You can see the video here. Their website lists the 4 key ingredients as Peptide, Licorice, Vetiver and Aloe Vera.  These aren’t likely to give any skin lightening effect.  It is more likely they are using technology similar to Meladerm since hydroquinone is banned in some EU countries.  They don’t have the same labeling requirements as the U... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2924893 Sun, 25 Oct 2009 06:01:44 +0100 2924893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923258&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F10%2Fconsumer-reports-interview-nancyann-deparle-director-white-house-office-health-reform-.html Well, technically not big at all – Nancy-Ann DeParle, director of the White House Office of Health Reform is so petite that when she arrived for our interview Friday morning, we had to switch to smaller chairs because the ones we had chosen, she said, “make me feel like I’m in kindergarten.” But we covered a lot of ground on a subject that is anything but small. I’ll have full details (and a video) early next week, but here are some preview highlights from her answers to the questions we assembled from the experiences and suggestions of our readers: The elimination of medical underwriting – a feature of every one of the bills before Congress – is an underappreciated boon for consumers. Once insurers are barred from using pre-existing conditions to deny or limit cover... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923258 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:26:14 +0100 2923258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2920335&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F23%2Fcosmetic-chemist-celebrates-mole-day%2F Mid Brain Declares… Happy Mole Day! In case you didn’t realize, today is Mole Day.  It’s a day to celebrate the famous and ever-so-important (to chemists anyway) constant, Avogadro’s Number.  The number, 6.022 * 10 ^ 23, is a basic unit of measure in chemistry and represents the count of particles in a mole of a material.   You can learn more about it at the National Mole Day Foundation’s website. Here’s how this cosmetic chemist is going to celebrate.  I’m going to put 18 grams* of water in a beaker and say the unofficial Mole Day pledge. “I pledge allegiance to the mole, and to the science from which it comes, one SI unit, extremely divisible, with micromoles and millimoles for all.” Mole day is a part of the larger National Chemistry We... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2920335 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 06:02:42 +0100 2920335 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2902854&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F18%2Fwhat-does-kate-moss-spend-more-on-perfume-than-gasoline%2F Mid Brain reports: In one of the oddest stories I’ve heard in a while, Kate Moss admitted that she thinks gasoline is one of the best scents in the world. According to the report I read at CosmeticsDesign.com (which I have to assume is partially tongue in cheek)  she is considering creating a gasoline-inspired perfume. This started me wondering what perfumes would cost if we bought them like we do gasoline – by the gallon! Velvet Hour by Kate Moss Description: With her new fragrance, Kate invites you to be part of her Velvet Hour, a brief, precious moment as dusk settles, when the air is electrified with possibility.  It is all about entering an intimate, almost ritualistic moment of intense sensuality and seduction. Cost per ounce of fragrance = $40/ounce Cost if it was a ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2902854 Sun, 18 Oct 2009 06:01:58 +0100 2902854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2901726&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F17%2Fhair-removal-laser-treatment-works-better-as-a-single%2F Mid Brain reports: It turns out, more is not always better, at least not when it comes to laser hair removal. In an article published in the Archives of Dermatology, scientists report that a treatment with a single type of laser was more effective than one with two kinds of lasers.  Twenty individuals were treated in various spots with a Nd:YAG laser, an alexandrite laser, or a combination of those.  They found that the most effective, least painful treatment was the alexandrite laser.  It had an 84.3% reduction in hair versus a 73.6% reduction of the combined laser.  The combination treatment also caused more burning (an unfortunate side effect of this procedure). Does laser hair removal work? According to this research, laser hair removal does work. It is believed to work by destroyi... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2901726 Sat, 17 Oct 2009 06:49:00 +0100 2901726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879505&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F10%2Fgmo-coming-to-your-cosmetics%2F Mid Brain reports… Scientists have recently developed a way to genetically modify certain flowers to produce higher levels of fragrant compounds.  This research may even lead to the development of flower-odor producing yeast lines which would eliminate the need for flower harvesting.  Depending on your feelings about GMOs (genetically modified organisms) this could be good or bad news. What are GMOs? GMOs are plants (or animals) that have been genetically manipulated to express some useful trait. In this research, scientists took petunia plants and inserted a gene from another flowering plant to get the petunias to produce more fragrant compounds.  It worked.  These new plants make 10 times the odor molecules as natural petunias. GMO controversy While the benefits of genetically ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879505 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 06:01:26 +0100 2879505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2875988&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fack-toddlers-and-tiaras-tlc-show%2F What does a “review” on a television show have to do with health? I was so shocked by what I saw that I truly believe that it plays strongly into mental health. A couple of weeks ago, I watched, for the first (and last) time, the TLC show Toddlers and Tiaras. It was like watching a train wreck. My husband was shocked that I was watching it, but I couldn’t stop. I’d heard about it and had an idea of what it was about. After all, I do remember the sorry story of Jon-Benet Ramsey’s murder and all the talk about the pageant lifestyle. But I wasn’t prepared for this at all. I know that there are any avid, passionate pageant lovers. I know that probably, for the most part, the parents do want the best for their daughters, but geez, is this really the right way... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2875988 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 07:57:05 +0100 2875988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2871843&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F07%2Fwrinkle-cream-antiaging-breakthrough%2F Mid Brain reports: Researchers from the Singapore Institute of Medical Biology may hold the key to next generation wrinkle creams. According to Cosmetics Design, these scientists have found out how to treat genetic mutations lead can cause premature skin ageing. The treatment involves increasing the levels of a protein known as PYCR1.  This reverses the gene mutation that causes a certain genetic disease that causes a wrinkly skin condition. They theorize that this could have impacts on anti-ageing formulations. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2871843 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 06:01:56 +0100 2871843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2865655&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F10%2Ffoot-pain-from-high-heels-poor-shoe-choices-and-foot-pain-.html Listen up, ladies: think carefully about your shoe choices today if you want happy feet in the future. That's the message of a new study, which found that women who wear sensible shoes are much less likely to have pain in their hindfoot when they're older. The study included 1,900 women and 1,472 men who were age 50 or above. They were asked whether they currently had pain, aching, or stiffness in one or both feet, and if so, whether it affected a specific part of their foot. They were also asked about their current and past footwear across five age groups: 20 to 29 years, 30 to 44 years, 45 to 64 years, 65 to 74 years, and over 75 years. The researchers sorted the footwear into three categories: good (low-risk shoes offering lots of support and stability, such as athletic shoes ... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2865655 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:27:47 +0100 2865655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2865895&cid=t_110820_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fuglybeautiful.html Courgette ratatouille brings a beautiful dash of autumn color to a stained stovetop.Vegetables prepped in the washer =bad idea if you have a high efficiency tumbler!Skins and tomato shreds on clothes for days afterward =ugly.Fascination of children garnered by a novel use of an ordinary appliance =beautiful.An ugly counter strewn with seeds and sticky juice is made beautiful by the glisten of red in a favorite yellow enamel pot."This is why cultivating once again one’s own sense of aesthetics, and raising future generations to appreciate beauty, should be seen as a profound obligation by God’s people. And there is no more appropriate time of the year to remind ourselves of this than when we commemorate the horrific ugliness of Christ’s Passion followed by the splendor of His Resurrec... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2865895 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:16:00 +0100 2865895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2858696&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F04%2Fsony-turns-cell-phones-into-smell-phones%2F Mid Brain reports: It’s either the coolest girly gadget EVER or a sign of the approaching apocalypse: Sony Erickson has developed a line of scented cell phones. You simply insert a fragrance strip into the phone and you can chat and sniff for up to 3 whole months. I can only wonder how sick I’d get of their “Apple Pie” fragrance after 3 months! Cell Phone or Smell Phone, which would you prefer? Leave a comment and tell the other Beauty Brainiacs if you’d ever buy a product like this. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2858696 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 06:01:42 +0100 2858696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2857479&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F10%2F03%2Fbeauty-perception-the-science-of-attraction%2F This study reveals the science of attraction is more complex than we originally thought. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2857479 Sat, 03 Oct 2009 06:01:59 +0100 2857479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2823980&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F09%2Fhow-to-prevent-wrinkles-tips-on-preventing-wrinkles-eye-cream-ratings-wrinkle-cream-ratings.html Some people are born lucky—but for the rest of us wrinkles are a natural part of aging. And defying nature can mean trying out a number of eye creams, overnight serums, collagen-based injectables, and even some pretty interesting "facial toning" devices. While any one or combination of these products may work for you, our sister publication, ShopSmart, has some simple, do-it-yourself ways to prevent those fine lines from getting deeper: Use a facial moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30 to limit the sun’s damage every day, not just when you’re at the beach. Shield your face with a hat and sunglasses when you’re outdoors, particularly on sunny days. Avoid tanning beds. Those ultraviolet rays can be even more intense than the sun’s and can increase your risk ... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2823980 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:46:19 +0100 2823980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814492&cid=t_110820_109_f&fid=36089&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthesituationist.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F21%2Fhey-dove-talk-to-your-parent-2%2F [This post was first published in October of 2007.] Several weeks ago, as part of its much lauded “Dove Campaign for Real Beauty,” Unilever released “Onslaught,” a video (above) examining disturbing images of women in beauty-industry advertising. The video ends with this admonition to parents: “Talk to your daughter before the beauty industry does.” It’s a powerful video with a disturbing collection of images. The situation of our daughters — and, by the way, our sons — seems both overwhelming and diabolical. Read the comments about the film on the Dove website discussion board, and you can feel the love and gratitude that viewers, particularly mothers, feel toward Dove for this film. Skimming the first ten comments, one finds these re... The Situationist blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814492 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 04:01:38 +0100 2814492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2807585&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F09%2Ffda-warns-maker-of-latisse-about-misleading-claims.html We’ve blogged about the new eyelash enhancement drug Latisse several times before. And we’ve talked about how the drug has some side effects that are rather serious for a cosmetic product, and that Allergan’s promotional materials tend to downplay such risks. Now the Food and Drug Administration has sent a warning letter to Allergan, saying that many claims on its website are misleading and, in fact, unlawful. You can read the whole letter for yourself, but here some highlights. Latisse’s Website says:In the “Is Latisse safe?” section of the drug’s website: “The FDA reviewed clinical study results to verify the identity, potency, purity and stability of the ingredients, and demonstrated that the product is safe and effective for its intended use if used as prescribed... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2807585 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 21:28:46 +0100 2807585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785924&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F09%2Fhealth-risks-of-latisse-bimatoprost-eyelash-lengthening-drug-safety-concerns-.html Recently, we reported on some safety concerns surrounding the use of the eyelash-enhancing drug Latisse, including some common side effects, such as red and itchy eyes, and what the ad for this controversial drug calls a potential for "eyelid skin darkening," and "increased brown iris pigmentation." Our new video takes a closer look at the health drawbacks and the advertisement behind this drug, featuring celebrity spokesperson Brooke Shields. Take a look as ShopSmart magazine editor, Lisa Freeman, and our medical consultant, Dr. Amy Newberger, tell you why the risks of using Latisse may outweigh the drug's cosmetic benefits. —Ginger Skinner For more on Latisse, read our previous blog, and find ou... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785924 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:09:35 +0100 2785924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2778548&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D727 News Flash!  “You get smarter the more you walk!”  Brain Size Matters!  What?  Scientists have found in a recent study that walking increases the volume and the efficiency of the brain, and also  improves  memory and attention.  New research is focused on why this doesn’t seem to affect blondes in the same way.  Rumor is they are focusing on Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, and Britney Spears as test subjects. As little as three hours a week of brisk walking over a period of 6 months  increases blood flow to the the brain and triggers biochemical changes that increase production of new brain neurons.  Stretching , sex, and non-aerobic exercise has no effect on brain size. (obviously, Pamela Anderson and Jenna Jameson) I calculated it out, that in order to be sm... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2778548 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:37:18 +0100 2778548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2858882&cid=t_110820_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fsilver-lining.html Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, let me stand, I am tired, I am weak, I am worn; Through the storm, through the night, Lead me on to the light~ Precious Lord, Thomas A. Dorsey, 1932 (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2858882 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:00:00 +0100 2858882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2772603&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F09%2F07%2Flabor-day-and-the-love-of-cosmetic-science%2F Happy Labor Day to all our American readers! As you may recall, Labor Day originated in 1882 as “a day off for the working citizens.” But have you ever stopped to think how many “working scientists” are involved making the brand name cosmetics you use every day? From Almay and American Crew, to the Body Shop and Burts Bees; to Clinique and Clearasil, to Dove and Dr. Scholls, there are thousands of chemists, biologists, and engineers who work behind the scenes to make the makeup and other products you use daily. Here are some examples: Cosmetic Scientists… Formulators who mix and match chemicals to develop new products.  Chemists who create the raw materials.   Technical representatives for the companies who sell chemicals.   Compounders who actually batch... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2772603 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 06:01:55 +0100 2772603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2858884&cid=t_110820_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fhappy-anniversary.html The difference is just a breath aparton one side loneliness, on the other warmthSeven years I've waited for something to break my heartbut you just keep holding onI sometimes waver between trust and fearwonder whether someday God's gonna take meMy choice is to remember every morning I'm still herejust keep holding on to loveSeven years or seventy and sevendreams unfinished or dreams forgotten in the dustJust keep walking hand in hand, just keep livin'Till death I'll just keep holding onYou're still the reason I hold on this tight, the reason I live this hard, the reason I am this warm, the reason I believe in oh, so many things I never believed in before. It's been the best season of my life. I can't wait to see what you eclipse it with in the next seven. (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2858884 Sun, 06 Sep 2009 18:37:00 +0100 2858884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2770234&cid=t_110820_140_f&fid=35439&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbipolarsoupkitchen-stephany.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fbeauty.html (Source: soulful sepulcher) soulful sepulcher blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2770234 Sun, 06 Sep 2009 15:30:00 +0100 2770234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766011&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F09%2Facne-myths-treatments-for-acne-tips-on-preventing-acne-treating-pimples-and-zits.html Good news for chocolate lovers—that chocolaty treat you devoured after dinner last night is not the cause of your unwelcome breakouts. In fact, there’s no evidence that eating chocolate or fatty foods triggers acne. The perceived connection between the foods you eat, such as chocolate, pizza, and french fries, and the pimples that oh-so-inconveniently appear on your face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders is just one popular myth. Here are some others: You get acne when you don’t wash enough. Blackheads are not black because of dirt, and actually, hard scrubbing can lead to dryness and irritation, and make acne worse. Popping pimples can make them disappear. While popping pimples can make them temporarily less noticeable, popping a pimple pushes bacteria further into the skin, ma... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766011 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 19:12:58 +0100 2766011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2761993&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F09%2F03%2Fcan-you-trust-a-handsome-guy%2F Mid Brain is concerned: Science centric reports on a piece of research by evolutionary biologists at the University of Glasgow which suggests that females shouldn’t trust guys who look and act flashy. Ok, their work was done in the animal kingdom so it may not correlate, but I can’t stop wondering if some of the same principles apply. Here’s what they learned: Tasty testosterone We all know that male animals use sexual signals like big antlers, bright plumage, or even pretty songs to to attract a mate. But according to Dr Jan Lindstroem at the University of Glasgow females shouldn’t count on the flashiest male being the best mate. Lindstroem’s research indicates that the “ladies” are better off waiting for the dishonest males to exhaust themselves ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2761993 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 06:01:09 +0100 2761993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2751875&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F08%2Fpreventing-ear-lob-tears-preventing-keloids-earring-infections-.html No, despite the title, this is not another noise blog. Last month I wrote about the health risks of skinny jeans after I saw a magazine ad for a "Skinny jeans challenge" while waiting to see a surgeon for a torn earlobe. Ironically, I, too, had sacrificed my better judgment for the sake of fashion. After years of wearing heavy gold and silver earrings, gravity had caused a split in the piercing that needed to be surgically repaired. So as I wait for my incision to heal and sit out the three-month period before I can get my ear lobe re-pierced, I did some investigating. Ear piercing has been around for centuries and practiced in many cultures. Over time the custom has grown in the Western world with around 90% of women currently adorning at least one ear with jewelry. Along with... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2751875 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:01:47 +0100 2751875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2737692&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F08%2Fcauses-of-brittle-nails-advice-for-treating-brittle-nails-.html I have brittle fingernails and toenails that are prone to splitting. Is my diet deficient? —Philip Schaefer Louisville, KY Not likely. Although nails can reflect dietary deficiencies, the deficits must be extreme, a rarity in this country. Nails can also be affected by chronic diseases such as anemia and hypothyroidism. But the most common cause of nail brittleness is exposure to water. Use moisturizing hand soap, limit your shower or bath time, wear cotton-lined rubber gloves to wash dishes, and regularly use hand cream. If brittleness persists, consider seeing a dermatologist. Get information on fungal nail infections, which affect about 1 in 7 U.S. adults, and see which treatments work best (subscribers only). Image courtesy of good... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2737692 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:58:11 +0100 2737692 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725003&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D675 Sizzling hot, Victoria Secret Supermodel, Miranda Kerr hits the beach in a colorful bikini as the mercury rises.. Miranda studied health and nutrition before doing modeling fulltime, and she follows a strict organic diet.  She likes salads, chicken or fish for lunch. Not only humans, but  fish can’t escape the rise in  mercury, and I’m not talking about the temperature; but the rise in contamination from the methyl form of the element.  Basking in the summer heat (and looking at Miranda) can make you a bit looney, but methylmercury ingested or inhaled can make you severely impaired mentally and physically.  (never clean up a broken thermometer with unprotected skin, and never “play” with or handle the mercury drops.) A federal study of mercury contam... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725003 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:15:59 +0100 2725003 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2712207&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F08%2F19%2Fyou-can-pick-your-nose-but-would-your-nose-pick-hugo-boss%2F Mid Brain reports: Call me a geek, but I dream of the day when we invent an electronic nose that’s better than our own nostrils. Well, now my dream has come one step closer to reality:  Science Daily reports that the smelling range of electronic noses has been dramatically improved through a program that compares their readings to what is arguably the best nose of all – the common housefly. Super Fly According to the article the scientists evaluated “how the most common type of e-nose sensors – metal oxide or ‘MOx’ receptors – sample the air around them. This is a critical factor in the performance of all noses. We then compared it with the performance of odorant receptors from the common house fly, Drosophila.” The researchers say that this new system all... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2712207 Wed, 19 Aug 2009 06:01:20 +0100 2712207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725006&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D584 Julianne Hough from Dancing with the Stars has great arms (and the works!)  I am guessing hard work – au naturale too!    So many women want to have arms like the ones they see on TV actresses, Dancers, and Big Screen Starletts.  Certainly, you can make your arms look great, but it is extremely difficult to get lean enough, and most of all to drive out the water from the muscle so you can see the definition.  There’s a secret set of weapons that entertainers use in creating sculpted arms, butts, and bodies and that comes from the knowledge of proper use of nutraceuticals, botanicals, and pharmaceuticals (and a great doctor)!  One of those pharmaceuticals that is widely utilized is oxandralone, “Anavar” which to anyone who has used it, is a “miracle work... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725006 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:30:53 +0100 2725006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725007&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D551 Tommy Lee gave Pamela Anderson three things, but only two were wanted:  Brandon and Dylon, their two sons.  Unfortunately, the third was Hepatitis C, allegedly. Former Baywatch star, and former Playboy Playmate, Pamela Anderson is one of the most recognized celebrities that has been diagnosed with  hepatitis C, which can be a  deadly liver disease.  Hepatitis C  is a real epidemic, far worse than any swine flu, as 270-300 million people worldwide are infected!  She says she was infected by sharing a tattoo needle with her ex-husband, rock musician Tommy Lee.    People with tattoos are 9 times more likely to be infected with hepatitis C, according to a Texas physician.  My advice is to avoid sharing anything with anyone in a rock band, especially if they have over 12 tattoos ... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725007 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:30:51 +0100 2725007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725008&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D533 The 24-year-old Victoria’s Secret angel/supermodel, Bar Rafaeli is one of fashion and beauty’s freshest faces and is the face of Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Hair Products.  There are many people out there that think Bar is one of the prettiest and sexy girls around, so why is she being treated like a dog?  You’ve got to read this to believe it. This new product  from Garnier is getting rave reviews from users, and it certainly fits the new push for healthy products. like fruits, and oils that enhance our looks naturally.  So with fantastic ingredients like Apple Fruit Extract, Lemon Peel Extract, Vitamin B3 – Niacinamide, Vitamin B6 – Pyridoxine, Avocado and Olive Fruit Oils…what is Linalool?  Linalool? Linalool  is used as a natural bot... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725008 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 15:26:42 +0100 2725008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2705204&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F08%2F16%2Fbeauty-ads-hair-dryer-as-pop-art%2F Mid Brain says: Sarah Bellum and I have been having fun with old beauty ads, like the one showing that Adam and Eve wore too much makeup. Here’s another one we found amusing. Yes, we know it was the 1970s.  And, yes, we know that “hip” and “mod” reigned supreme… But what the HELL?!?! In most beauty ads, the hair style takes center stage. “Make me look beautiful like the goddess in the ad” is what you’re supposed to say to yourself as you flip through Cosmo. But this ad seems to call to you in a droning, zombie like tone: “Must–Join–Cybernetic –Blue–Capped–Line– Dancing– Clones.” If this were a James Bond villainess her name would be something catchy, like “Blue Bonnet Plagu... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2705204 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 06:01:42 +0100 2705204 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725009&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D400 Smoking – Glamorous?  Don’t think so.  Doctors have long since known that smoking was bad, leading to heart disease, and cancer.  But what is shocking is that women appear to be more vulnerable than men to the cancer-causing effects of smoking tobacco.  Low tar, low nicotine, or filtered products makes no difference either.   Swiss scientists found women tended to be younger when they developed the cancer, despite having smoked on average significantly less than men.  Of course, we know that pregnant women deliver smaller, more sickly babies when they smoke during gestation, but it goes much farther than that. Models who smoke to keep thin, won’t have to worry that much as they won’t be modeling long. “Our findings suggest that women may have an incr... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725009 Fri, 14 Aug 2009 10:30:07 +0100 2725009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2859110&cid=t_110820_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fa-newly-discovered-poem%2F I was going through old backup CDs on the computer and found a file simply called “08212004.txt”. I don’t remember actually writing the poem but it’s definitely mine. It has no title: I am a burning force, an explosion of furious, blinding light. Unstoppable. Immovable. I am a raging blue firestorm. All consuming. I am a cold steel frame. Indestructible. I cannot see. I am crusted over. Blind. Hardened. Small. Crunched and cracked. Pathetic. -car It’s clear to me now that I was trying to express the two very different, but very real impressions I have of myself. I am very proud, but equally ashamed of myself. I’m amazing. I’m a f.ing badass. I survived cancer, and all the bullshit since then. I have lived life on a razor’s edge. I know way mo... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2859110 Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:31:24 +0100 2859110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2691610&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F08%2F12%2Fanother-way-cosmetic-sales-advertising-tricks-your-brain%2F Right Brain reports: Sarah Bellum recently mentioned (in her mildly mocking tone) that Mid Brain’s favorite Beauty Brains’ feature is “Actual Ads.” Well, I can’t speak for the other lobes, but I really enjoy our posts on the psychology of cosmetics. Case in point: Cosmeticsdesign.com just published a  a fascinating article on how high tech visual demonstrations can “trick” you into buying cosmetics. After before and after Dr. Torsten Clarius (of the cosmetic ingredient company Cognis) has conducted a study that suggests demonstrating a cosmetic’s performance with high tech visual imagery instead of just numerical statistics can improve the success of advertising. So-called “before and after” pictures used to demonstrate the efficac... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2691610 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 06:01:21 +0100 2691610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2670940&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F08%2F05%2Fdid-you-ever-wonder-what-your-hair-looks-like-close-up%2F This really appeals to the scientist in me. You can see all of the important hair structures like the cuticle, the cortex and even the melanin that gives hair it’s color. It also shows you why you can’t fix a split end. Once the hair fiber has been broken, no amount of hair treatment is going to rebuild a broken strand. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2670940 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 07:53:06 +0100 2670940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2667527&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F08%2F04%2Fmore-beauty-science-blogs-worth-reading%2F While the Beauty Brains may have been the first cosmetic chemists to start a beauty blog, we are no longer the only ones. Here are a few of our fellow scientists writing about the chemistry & science of beauty products. 5 More Sciencey Beauty Blogs 1. Colin’s Beauty Pages – Written by a UK-based cosmetic scientist. Colin reviews products, beauty advice, and the science behind beauty and attraction. He’s currently writing a book on the science of beauty and you can see some excerpts on the blog. 2. The b-spot Nikita is a cosmetic chemist who works as a consultant to the industry. She also has a regular column in the prestigous Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine, one of the top publications for cosmetic science professionals. She gives an insider’s view of the c... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2667527 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 07:48:07 +0100 2667527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2660817&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F08%2F01%2Fhairy-glaze-of-glory%2F Sandy says…Talk to me about these new hair color glazes on the market. What do you know? Do you like ‘em? The Right Brain replies: Hair color glazes are all the rage these days. We here at the Beauty Brains have taken a look and even tried them and have the following observations. What’s in there? Here is John Frieda’s Brilliant Brunette Luminous Color Glaze. It’s interesting to note that except for the color of the formulas, the Brunette, Red head, and Blonde formulas are pretty much the same. Water, Propylene Carbonate, Alcohol Denat., PEG-12 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Citric Acid, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Xanthan Gum, Dimethiconol, Oleyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Propylene Glycol, Methylcloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothizolinone, Pearl Powder, Fragrance, Ir... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2660817 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 06:01:32 +0100 2660817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2653876&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F30%2Fare-there-too-many-choices-in-the-shampoo-aisle%2F The Right Brain rambles: We came across an interesting shampoo rant by UK blogger by Rob Fisher that touches on some of the same themes that we write about here. You can check out the entire article, but here are a few pithy quotes from Rob followed by The Beauty Brains comments: Rob Writes: I find shopping for toiletries an overwhelmingly draining experience. I can stare at an entire aisle of shampoo for hours, just looking your basic, ordinary, not-too-cheap, not-too-expensive, not-containing-any-weird-ingredients shampoo. It’s nearly impossible. There’s too much choice! The Brains Comment: What do you people in the real world think? Are there too many choices out there for shampoo and other personal care products? Rob Writes: Yet could it be that all this choice is a go... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2653876 Thu, 30 Jul 2009 06:01:14 +0100 2653876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2649123&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F29%2F78%2F Cynical Girl sez…I have over-highlighted my hair and it’s fried. The salon recommended a Redken All Softconditioning treatment and another Redken protein treatment. Will any of these products really make a difference, or do I just need to cut off the damaged ends of my hair? Is it possible to add too much moisture or protein to my hair? Any risks? The Right Brain replies: Cynical Girl – it looks like you’ve committed the cardinal sin of chemically caring for your hair: you over-processed. But, rather than publicly berating you here on the Beauty Brains blog, we’ll give you some information that will help save your hair. Is protein powerful? Your stylist recommended a couple of Redkin products. There’s certainly nothing wrong with using those – the... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2649123 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 06:01:52 +0100 2649123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2649116&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fantiaging%2Frelaxin-claims-to-be-better-than-botox Everyone knows that Botox is expensive, so the hope is that with the release of new Relaxin, it will bring the competition out and the prices down. Relaxin is still awaiting FDA approval and ist’s hard to predict now if the prices of Botox treatments will go down because it’s hard to know yet if Relaxin is as good. It will take time for the new drug to prove itself to us. In the mean time I suggest looking for more natural treatments while you’re waiting to hear about the effects of Relaxin. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement may be an option. (Source: Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog) Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2649116 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 21:55:43 +0100 2649116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2645476&cid=t_110820_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FSHq0DHhi37g%2F It looks like Proctor & Gamble scientists have just discovered the secret to youthful skin: it’s in 1,500 genes. Using data from the Human Genome Project, P&G scientists identified some 1,500 genes that are responsible for how skin ages. Of those, up to 700 genes control how skin collects and retains moisture. Genomics has key to keeping skin healthy and young. According to an article in the Daily Mail, there are separate ways that skin ages, and each of these are controlled by their own set of genes: Collagen (the protein that gives skin its structure and strength) degrades. Skin loses its ability to keep it hydrated. Fewer skin cells are produced with time. Wrinkles are produced when the skin becomes more inflamed. Age weakens our skin’s natural defense against free-radicals... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2645476 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:01:28 +0100 2645476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2641372&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F27%2Fcan-a-stranger-pick-your-beauty-products-better-than-you%2F Right Brain says… This bit of science might make even a skeptic like Left Brain re-evaluate feelings about beauty product reviews. It turns out that psychologists have demonstrated strangers are more reliable predictors of what you’ll like than you are. Science of Choice Harvard researchers investigated women’s ability to predict how well they would enjoy a specific date. In one study, they gave some women typical online dating information like a picture & profile. Other women got no information except the opinion of a stranger who had already dated the person. It turns out, the women who got the stranger’s evaluation were better able to predict whether they would enjoy the date or not versus the one’s who got the picture & profile information. Accordi... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2641372 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 06:01:40 +0100 2641372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2630225&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F23%2Fwhat-does-science-say-about-cosmetic-chemical-toxicity%2F This study found a large number of people believed personal care products contained dangerous chemicals. Scientific opinion Now here is an interesting survey that looked at what experts who dedicate their lives to studying the topic think about how dangerous are the chemicals used in cosmetic products. Note, these scientists do not work for cosmetic companies. Here are some findings from a survey conducted by George Mason University researchers. The survey included 937 member of the Society of Toxicology. This group is composed of scientists who specifically test chemicals to determine the risk of human exposure. Some of the more interesting findings are below. Cosmetic product safety 26% believe cosmetics pose a significant health risk. 10% believe organic/natural products are safer 23% s... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2630225 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 06:01:44 +0100 2630225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2621902&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F21%2Fdo-you-want-photoshop-free-beauty-ads%2F Scatter Brain says: Beware the Art Director With a Photoshop Program As long as there have been photographs, there has been photo manipulation. It’s interesting, because this art form came about to capture reality, but as soon as we figured out how, we started altering that reality. For instance, I have a baby picture of my Dad, taken at a portrait studio over 7 decades ago. My sweet chubby baby Daddy has rosy cheeks that are hand tinted and the lushest painted on eyelashes that ever adorned a baby’s face. He even appears to be wearing just the slightest hint of lip color. Hand tinted of course. Later came airbrushing and composite photos. When I worked at the advertising agency in Atlanta (I’m not telling how many decades ago) there was big dust up over the fact that TV Guide used a... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2621902 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 06:01:58 +0100 2621902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2621846&cid=t_110820_109_f&fid=34859&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dare-to-dream.us%2Farchives%2F2009%2F07%2Fstars_are_just_ordinary_women.php A fashion piece called "Celebrities Without Makeup" can make an effective social education for young girls at risk for eating disorders. I first saw something like this from a ad put together by Dove Campaign for Real Beauty and posted about it. Related articles by Zemanta Eating Disorders in Middle-Age Increasing (diet-blog.com) Eating Disorders Can Strike at Any Age (shoppingblog.com) Kids with eating disorders (timesunion.com) (Source: Ψ Dare To Dream...) Ψ Dare To Dream... blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2621846 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 03:57:08 +0100 2621846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2613847&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fa-virtual-nose-job-no-pain-no-cost%2F Ever wonder what you’d look like with a different nose but really, really don’t want to go through the pain and costs of having plastic surgery? Well, you’re in luck. These days, all you have to do is go online and have virtual plastic surgery. Once, these type on online applications were only available at the plastic surgeons office. But now anyone can use them anywhere. Simply upload a photo at FaceTouchUp.com and then drag the cursor around to reshape and contour the nose. Then, with the help of viewing tools, you can compare the before and after photos to see what difference a ‘nose job’ would make. But why stop at the nose. You can also make cosmetic changes to other facial features such as lips, chin, the eyes, cheeks, and ears. In other words you can just about create a �... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2613847 Sat, 18 Jul 2009 10:00:13 +0100 2613847 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2613945&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F18%2Fbeauty-news-from-diet-drinks-to-tasty-toothpastes%2F Mid Brain reports: Cosmetics and Toiletries magazine cites a tasty piece of research done by the Monell Chemical Senses Center: Monell Chemical Senses Center announced that a scientific paradox linking artificial sweeteners with a sensory experience, in which plain water takes on a sweet taste, has guided researchers to an increased understanding of how humans detect sweet taste. As reported in Nature, scientists from Monell describe how certain artificial sweeteners, including sodium saccharin and acesulfame-K, paradoxically inhibit sweet taste at high concentrations. The researchers further reported that taste perception switches back to sweetness when these high concentrations are rinsed from the mouth with water, resulting in the aftertaste experience known as sweet water taste. Well B... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2613945 Sat, 18 Jul 2009 06:01:02 +0100 2613945 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2613823&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F07%2Fare-self-tanning-lotions-safe-safety-of-self-tanning-lotions-sunless-tanner-ratings-.html Are self-tanning lotions safe to use? —T.V., Winona Lake, Ind. They appear to be. All self-tanners approved by the Food and Drug Administration use the same color-producing chemical, a substance called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that reacts with proteins in the outermost layer of your skin to create a brownish pigment called melanoidin. The sunless tan usually lasts two to five days, wearing off as you naturally shed the darkened outer skin cells. While a few test-tube studies have suggested that DHA might cause cell damage, we could find no human studies examining that risk. But it’s been used in the U.S. for more than 40 years with no major ill effects reported. And the FDA allows DHA in cosmetics only if, as in lotions, they’re not likely to enter the body. (The spray “mists” ... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2613823 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:31:55 +0100 2613823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2602096&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F15%2Fdoes-hair-conditioner-really-contain-fruit-wax%2F Heidi’s comment: Shampoos like Pantene, Dove, and the like are using cheaper grade ingredients because…well?… they’re cheaper and they can… they are not different per say… just… cheaper… and larger in molecule size… Some are using the same kind of wax you put on an apple to make it shiney in the conditioner (you thought the shine was natural?)… Its food grade, edible, and naturally derived… Therefore? Legal and acceptable. The Left Brain retorts: For those of you who may have missed the discussion, Heidi’s comment appeared in our post on How Beauty Salons Lie to You. While I am appreciative off all the comments from the Beauty Brains community, I do feel compelled to correct inaccurate statements when I have the chance... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2602096 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 06:01:56 +0100 2602096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591579&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F11%2Fwho-wants-anti-aging-lotions-that-really-work%2F Mid Brain reports: Tired of spending top dollar for that Anti-aging skin lotion only to see barely noticeable effects? Take heart because scientists at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have recently discovered some new bio-markers that should help in the development anti-aging lotions that really work. The sad truth is that creams and lotions that claim to be anti-aging are not much more effective than standard moisturizing lotions. Under the right testing circumstances, you can make anyone’s skin look less wrinkled with a decent moisturizer. When you hear really impressive claims, the comparisons are probably done against untreated skin. And most people’s untreated skin will look nasty when compared to lotion treated skin. Of course, the good news is that most skin lotion... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591579 Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:01:47 +0100 2591579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2576649&cid=t_110820_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F07%2F07%2Fdepression-theres-a-person-underneath-the-illness%2F I think one of the most consoling things a fellow manic depressive ever told me was that I (the person known as Therese) never disappeared during my severe depression. It felt like I did, of course. Because I could barely recognize myself. I would stare into a mirror and question the identity of the ugly chick staring back. People couldn’t recognize me … especially from the back, since I had dropped a few pant sizes. But my friend reassured me that I was there all along. In a letter dated around May of 2006, just as I was starting to ascend from the Black Hole, she wrote me this: Once one walks in the door of a good psychiatrist, the scientist, and finds a good therapist as well as cognitive-thinking help, she realizes how alone she has been most of her life. Your success is ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2576649 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:03:59 +0100 2576649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2576706&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F07%2Fbeauty-science-poll-42%2F It’s time for another Beauty Science poll. Three  of these four headlines are true beauty science stories. One is totally bogus BS. Can you guess which one is the fake? Scroll down on the right sidebar to cast your vote. Which statement is FALSE? 1. Botox is not only good for removing wrinkles but it can also prevent hair loss. 2. Researchers have found a way to fight Swine Flu with a soap-sniffing “breathalizer” that tells if people really washed their hands. 3. An aquarium worker was arrested after feeding whitening toothpaste to fish so “they would look better for tourist pictures.” 4. Adding a cup of coffee to your skin care routine can protect you from sun damage. If you aren’t sure or think you know, leave a comment and get hints from the Beauty Brai... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2576706 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 06:01:06 +0100 2576706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2570870&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F05%2Fbeauty-news-are-you-a-suntan-addict%2F In this study, researchers interviewed frequent tanners using a modified questionnaire tool typically designed to diagnose drug or alcohol addiction. They found surprising similarities between the two groups. This finding is interesting but we here at The Beauty Brains don’t put much stock in single studies, especially ones based on psychological data. The problem with this type of data is that it is so variable from person to person. Additionally, the researchers could offer no evidence as to why people would be addicted to tanning. But now, another group may have just found a possible, scientific cause. Researchers at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center conducted this study that looked at the feel-good effects of UV exposure. They found that some people actually experien... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2570870 Sun, 05 Jul 2009 06:01:37 +0100 2570870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2570359&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F07%2Fshould-you-apply-sunscreen-to-your-eyelids-sunscreen-ratings-sunscreen-survey-.html After spending a day out in the sun, my eyelids get red and sore as if they were sunburned. Should I put sunscreen on them? —A.G., Port Chester, N.Y. That depends. It’s safe to apply sunscreen to eyelids, but swimming or sweating may cause it to run into your eyes and irritate them. You may have better luck using a moisturizer or eye cream with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, which is absorbed more easily into the lid and less prone to run into your eyes. The best strategy might be to wear wraparound sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) light and a wide-brimmed hat to protect both the delicate skin around your eyes and the clear membrane covering the front of the eyeball. (In severe cases that membrane can get burned, a condition called snow blindness because it oft... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2570359 Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:40:00 +0100 2570359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2561391&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F01%2Fthe-surprising-reason-why-you-should-want-gray-hair%2F Mid Brain muses: First we told you about a better way to get your gray hair dyed. Then we explained how stress causes gray hair. And most recently we we told you how to to get rid of gray hair forever.  Now  we’re blogging about why you should be HAPPY that you have gray hair. (Why all the posts about gray hair? Trust me, if you had to look at the Left Brain’s roots everyday you wouldn’t have to ask that question!) Anyway, the latest news is that gray hair may actually protect you from cancer! Gray hair is good Hair color is produced by cells called melanocytes which are in part controlled by stem cells. When the number of stem cells in hair follicles goes down, hair turns gray. Now researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University in Japan have discovered that radiati... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2561391 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:44:48 +0100 2561391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2550269&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F28%2Fscience-sources-cosmetics-toiletries-and-fragrance-association-ctfa%2F While we here at the Beauty Brains answer your questions, we also hope to help you become smarter consumers. If you’re seriously interested in learning about beauty care products, here’s a great source of solid scientific information: the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) website. The PCPC (formerly known as the CTFA) is one of the oldest, and most respected, sources of information on cosmetic science. Much of this site is designed for those in the industry who are members and who can access ingredient dictionaries, Cosmetic Ingredient Reviews that show the regulatory status of ingredients, and other legal functions. But there are other sections open to the general public that our readers should find interesting. You might want to check out the following: Cosmetic Ingredie... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2550269 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 06:01:18 +0100 2550269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2527965&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F27%2Fhow-is-hair-breakage-measured%2F Ivy inquires… You know, I’ve been wondering about Pantene Restoratives and its effectiveness. I even went so far as to write to the Pantene P&G company and ask them on what grounds do they issue a guarantee promising 90 % less breakage in one month? I didn’t get an answer. The Right Brain responds: Don’t worry, WE’LL give you an answer! Here’s the exact claim that Pantene makes for this product: 90% less breakage in one month.* * Shampoo and conditioner vs. non-conditioning shampoo. It’s easy to skip over reading the asterisk and the fine print, but actually they’re quite important. That’s how the advertiser defines how the claim is supported. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves…. Hair Breakage Claims First, let&#8217... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2527965 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 06:01:12 +0100 2527965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523271&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fantiaging%2Fprogesterone-deficiency-can-lead-to-tender-breasts Hormone Replacement Can Be the Cure Many women are suffering from tender and swollen breasts right before their period. Usually, it is one of the many symptoms, that include bloating, fatigue, even moodiness in some. A low progesterone level can be the cause of this tenderness. Replacement with progesterone, not progestine, may help. (Source: Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog) Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523271 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:25:49 +0100 2523271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3146083&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fantiaging%2Festrogen-and-progesterone-can-help-with-droopy-breasts Nobody argues that breasts are a very important part of a woman’s body. Therefore, maintaining their proper shape and consistency is crucial. The main hormone responsible for their texture as well as volume is estrogen. If a woman has enough estrogen, she can generate breast tissue to maintain its shape and density. However it is not always the case. Estrogen deficiency is probably the most important cause of breast shape, volume and consistency problems. If there is no enough estrogen from the beginning, breasts are small after periods are started. If estrogen deficiency develops at menopausal age, it results in droopy breasts. What can be done? The first thing that comes to my mind is to replace missing estrogen with hormone replacement therapy. Of course I’m talking about hormones ... Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3146083 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:24:45 +0100 3146083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523272&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fantiaging%2Festrogen-and-progesterone-can-help-with-droopy-breasts Estrogen, the main female sex hormone is responsible for duct formation and status in breast tissue while progesterone is needed for the rest, including regulating the menstrual cycle. As hormone levels start declining with age there is no hormonal support for the breast tissue anymore. The result is droopy breasts. So at an age when most are looking to consider breast implants and reduction, this may be the opportunity to look into bioidentical hormone replacement first. (Source: Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog) Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523272 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:24:45 +0100 2523272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2939420&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fbeauty%2Fbeauty-can-be-the-key-to-survival Everybody agrees that beauty is a big advantage in sexual relations. But what about money? Most studies will show that a good-looking female has more of a chance to get hired, get a higher salary and be promoted.In my opinion, this isn’t surprising, as beauty is related to hormone levels and hence to functional status. Apparently, we tend to link, maybe subconsciously, attractiveness with better performance. It may also be a conscious link, as we are more likely to notice and to talk to someone attractive. It’s an instinct to notice what someone is wearing, if they put some effort into their appearance, as we directly correlate that with putting in time and effort to impress. Therefore beauty is not for fun, it is for survival! (Source: Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog) Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2939420 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 22:52:57 +0100 2939420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2511827&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F22%2Fbeauty-news-the-biology-of-beauty%2F We’ve all heard the notion that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” This is generally taken to mean that everyone has their own internal standards of beauty and what you consider beautiful might be considered ugly by someone else. And vice versa. But did you know that there’s scientific evidence that suggests that people’s perceptions of beauty may in fact have a universal standard based on the geometric features of the human face? Beauty research The International Journal of Cosmetic Science published an article entitled “The Biology of Facial Beauty” (2005, 27. 317-325 – sorry there’s no online reference for this one!) in which the authors describe “culture-independent psychological adaptations reflecting mate choice charac... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2511827 Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:01:09 +0100 2511827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2511828&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F21%2Fwho-wants-perfume-delivered-right-through-your-computer%2F Mid Brain reports… NTT Communications is looking for people to participate in a trial of their new i-Aroma device. Unfortunately, they’re only testing it in Japan so if you’re in the US or EU, sorry.  But if you want, here’s the link anyway. i-Aroma technology This new technology is essentially a tiny perfume factory on your tabletop. It is loaded with 6 base oils that are mixed together after receiving commands from a computer. So, someone can transmit a fragrance recipe to you from across the world and you’ll smell it right in your house. This could represent the future of fragrance. I wonder when they are going to come out with an iPhone app for this thing. Imagine, sending someone a fragrant text message. That could be fun. Of course, based on the number ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2511828 Sun, 21 Jun 2009 06:44:38 +0100 2511828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2510223&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F06%2Ffacial-powder-dangers-cosmetic-risks-lung-disease-and-cancer-risks-from-cosmetics.html Is it dangerous to inhale the dust from facial powder? —P.C., via e-mail That's unclear. People exposed to very large amounts of those powders, such as workers in manufacturing plants, may be at higher risk of lung disease and certain cancers. But there's little research on the amount people breathe in while applying makeup. If you're concerned, look up potential hazardous cosmetic ingredients at the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetic Safety Database or at www.GreenerChoices.org. Read more on the risky chemicals that could be lurking in your cosmetics. (Source: Consumer Reports Health Blog) Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2510223 Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:32:49 +0100 2510223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2513064&cid=t_110820_140_f&fid=35439&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbipolarsoupkitchen-stephany.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fsunday-muse.html (Source: soulful sepulcher) soulful sepulcher blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2513064 Sun, 14 Jun 2009 18:34:00 +0100 2513064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2473679&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F13%2Fscientists-discover-that-wearing-makeup-actually-improves-your-brain%2F The Right Brain reports: In our modern world, life expectancies have dramatically increased. Now we’re not satisfied with just living longer, we want to live better – we expect to maintain a high quality of life as we grow old gracefully. And a new study shows that makeup can keep us happy as we age by actually improving the function of our brains! Makeup secret This amazing makeup secret is revealed in a research paper by Pola Chemical Industries and the Brain Functions Lab in Yokohama Japan which was published in the February 2009 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries. According to the researchers, they have scientific measurements that confirm what some people have long suspected – that wearing the right kind of makeup can lead to better activation of your brain. Th... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2473679 Sat, 13 Jun 2009 14:17:29 +0100 2473679 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2463103&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F08%2Fdoes-magnetic-jewelry-really-work%2F Barb Wants To Know…I have arthritis in my right wrist and I was thinking of buying one of those magnetic bracelets that are supposed to cure pain. Do they really work? The Right Brain Replies: Amazingly enough, the definitive answer is: Maybe! While most scientists have considered that using magnetic therapy to reduce pain is quackery, a study done a few years ago shows that there MIGHT be some basis to these claims. The Skeptical Inquirer, the Brain’s favorite site for debunking myths has this to say: Magnetic attraction “These examples and the centuries-old connection between magnets and quackery, have led many to consider modern magnetic therapy as total hokum, with the many testimonials for the success of magnetic treatments explainable by placebo effects. But the... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2463103 Mon, 08 Jun 2009 06:01:34 +0100 2463103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2452874&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F04%2F75%2F Mid Brain muses: Maybe it’s just me, but these old ads for vintage cosmetics always make me smile. For example, there are at least three things about this old ad that make me laugh: 1) The step-by-step picture diagram showing you how to comb your hair (in case you don’t have a mirror, I guess). 2) The fact that the product is in a GLASS bottle. (Wet shower + slippery foam + breakable glass bottle = trip to emergency room.) 3) The way they make such a big deal about the shampoo NOW! being available in a liquid, lotion form. What were they using before? Powdered shampoo?? Bar soap?? (Yeah, maybe they were, this ad is pretty old!) On second thought, it’s funny how times change. Now we have Lush Cosmetics Solid shampoo bars! <a HREF=”http://ws.amaz... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2452874 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 06:01:12 +0100 2452874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2452352&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F06%2Flatisse-ad-latisse-commercial-latisse-side-effects-brooke-shields-touts-benefits-of-latisse-in-ad-th.html We’re accustomed to seeing celebrities pushing prescription drugs in TV ads, so I was not surprised when I saw that Brooke Shields had signed on as spokeswoman for the new $120-a-month eyelash-lengthening drug Latisse (bimatoprost). But it did strike me as surprising that Shields would have the condition hypotrichosis, for which the FDA approved the drug. Allergan, the maker of Latisse defines the condition as "inadequate or not enough lashes." I suppose adequacy is in the eye of the beholder to some degree. These promotional before and after pictures suggest that Shields’ lashes did get longer. But were they really “inadequate” to begin with? That’s an important question because the drug has some serious risks that should be considered. Latisse’s benefits are strictl... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2452352 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 20:59:44 +0100 2452352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2447798&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fantiaging%2Fbeauty-and-the-economic-beast-do-you-need-treatments-when-the-economy-is-down The Importance of Looks in the World of Work Sure, consumers need to cut down on spending. Every news station has special segments on where we can cut spending, where we can crunch numbers again, and how to save. But right now, consumers are still spending on beauty treatments like Botox, Restylane, and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy. Are we really so vain as a society that we would take the food from our family’s table just to look good. The answer is yes, and with good reason. Right now, with layoffs and cuts in business spending, companies are looking to get the most out of the employees they have. They want young people, who can get paid less and have the energy to do more. It’s terrible to think your 30 years of experience as a bookkeeper may hang in the balance of the ... Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2447798 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:18:26 +0100 2447798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2447443&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F06%2Fwill-ferrell-sells-sun-safety-cancer-for-college-always-use-sunscreen-sun-protection.html When you think of Will Ferrell, you’ll likely think of Saturday Night Live re-runs or quirky comedies. Now the actor is adding another notch to his comedic resume with his new line of sunscreens, all for a good cause: scholarships for cancer survivors. The product comes complete with SPF 30 and quirky labeling that made our staffers blush. While we can’t vouch for Will’s products—they weren’t part of our testing—we like the subtext: Don’t forget to use sunscreen—at least 30 SPF—to prevent skin cancer. In our recent survey, two-thirds of respondents said they used sunscreen at least occasionally, and women were more likely than men to use it frequently. Respondents were less likely to use it during non-beach, non-swimming activities such as running, and were more diligent ... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2447443 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:31:18 +0100 2447443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2447800&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F06%2F01%2Fbeauty-science-poll-40-answers%2F It looks like most of you were able to pick out the fake Beauty Science from the stories in this week’s poll.  Over 50% of you figured out the story about the piercings was fake.  Here is a complete run down of the answers. Woman holds the record for the most piercings with 60,050 - FALSE Elaine Davidson from Brazil was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records for having the most piercings of anyone in the world.  But we added 10 times as many.  She actually has 6005 piercings. Robot was a runway supermodel at the most recent Tokyo Fashion Week - TRUE Only 10% of you thought this was fake so most of you got it right.  According to this news story, a robot made its catwalk debut at the latest fashion show.  Japan is one of the world leaders in robot technology.  Despite... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2447800 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 06:01:53 +0100 2447800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2447801&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F31%2Fwhat-beauty-products-of-the-future-do-you-want%2F There’s an interesting discussion started by JamiSings in the Beauty Brains forum about beauty products people wish existed but don’t. Do you have other ideas of products you wished existed? Leave a comment below. Here are a few examples of what forum members have come up with so far. Beauty Products of the Future? 1. Permanent, targeted hair removal 2. Cheap lotion that gets rid of stretch marks 3. Tools you can use yourself to remove ‘bacne’ 4. Vacuum to clean pores and remove ingrown hairs 5. Skin pills to treat skin conditions like eczema & rosacea 6. No more skin creams! Just cleaners and pills 7. Diet pill with no side effects 8. Sunscreen that didn’t have to be reapplied 9. Pill to stop hair from growing once it gets to the right length 10. Cream th... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2447801 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:01:37 +0100 2447801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442059&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F28%2Fwho-is-skeptical-about-sunscreen-in-their-hair-products%2F Rae Requests…Could you please explain more about sunscreen not protecting hair? I’ve always heard that people with color-treated hair should use a product with sunscreen. Can hair products with sunscreen at least help protect the scalp? The Right Brain Retorts: Sunscreens in hair care products don’t really do very much. Read on and we’ll explain, question and answer style: Does sunlight really damage your hair? Yes, but not as much as everything else you do. Even if you protected your hair from 100% of the UV damage it sustains, you’d still have more serious damage from combing, brushing, coloring, and, heck, even washing! Ok, but doesn’t sunscreen help a little? Maybe, if it was applied perfectly. Sunscreens work best when they’re applied in a u... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442059 Thu, 28 May 2009 06:01:05 +0100 2442059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2424274&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F20%2Fwho-wants-to-get-tan-without-cancer-concerns%2F Mid Brain muses: According to this article, the Fake Bake sunless tanning market is hot. Over the last few years major skin care manufacturers have discovered how to combine a skin moisturizer with a sunless tanner to make an effective light sunless tanner that gives a steady color change. These new tech products prevent the streaking effect that has been a major drawback of traditional sunless tanners. They also provide daily moisturization so there’s a reason to use them everyday. You get healthy skin and a natural looking color. How do sunless tanners work? To understand sunless tanning it is helpful to have a simple understanding of skin structure. Skin is made up of two primary layers, the dermis and the epidermis. The dermis is the inside layers of the skin where all the blood... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2424274 Wed, 20 May 2009 06:01:22 +0100 2424274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2415515&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F17%2Fwhat-shape-is-your-face%2F There are so many misleading, crappy beauty websites out there it’s hard to cut through the bull. That’s why The Beauty Brains spend a lot of time scouring the web looking for interesting websites so you don’t have to. In addition to science-oriented sites  sometimes we find things that are just plain fun to try out. Face shape Hairstyler.com has an interesting way to classify the shape of your face. I don’t know if it really helps you pick your hairstyle, but it is interesting to find out if you’re a heart face, diamond face or Triangular face type. You simply fill out a questionnaire and they email you pictures of recommended hairstyles based on your personal preference. Check it out, it’s kind of cool. Face it here! (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2415515 Sun, 17 May 2009 06:01:04 +0100 2415515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2415884&cid=t_110820_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fplan-vacation-you-need-rest.html There's a trend that concerns me that may not affect everyone, but it is affecting many, and that is the way that time off from employment is being treated. Not all companies are guilty of this, but quite a number are no longer providing sick days or personal days...and give limited number of vacation days, especially to newer employees, and if you are sick, you have to use your vacation days. Of course they don't use the term "vacation days", something more generic so it doesn't sound like they are taking from vacation time.But for those of you so blessed to have time to take a vacation, and I know there's plenty of you out there, plan a vacation, and make it as enjoyable and restful as you can.Have any of you vacationed in Kissimmee, Florida before? Where have you visited, if so..have yo... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2415884 Sun, 17 May 2009 04:06:00 +0100 2415884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405654&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F13%2Fbeauty-news-or-bs-quirky-story-poll-40%2F We’re going to take a slightly different spin on the Beauty Science poll this time. These stories aren’t exactly science. Instead, they are quirky news stories that are roughly related to beauty or beauty products. Three of them are actual stories. See if you can figure out which is the FAKE. Beauty Science or BS Headlines 1. Woman holds the record for the most piercings with 60,050. 2. Robot was a runway supermodel at the most recent Tokyo Fashion Week. 3. Bra saves woman’s life by stopping bullet. 4. Woman being sued to stop her from sending postcards with bits of her hair on them. If you’ve got an answer, leave a comment below to help your fellow Beauty Brains community members. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405654 Wed, 13 May 2009 07:17:27 +0100 2405654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405655&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F12%2Flella-nylon-hair-net%2F Mid Brain muses Sometimes it feels like there’s just too many choices in the world of modern cosmetics. Apparently this isn’t as recent a phenomena as one might think. We found this 1950s hair net ad in the The Beauty Brains library of old magazines. Read the fine print and you’ll see that selecting a hair net isn’t as simple as it seems. Nylon hair net nonsense So you want to buy a hair net? No problem. Just let me ask you a few questions first. What’s your bobbed size?… Would you prefer small mesh?… What about style, French?… Color black, I presume?… How do you like your elastic, visible or invisible? Apparently, selecting a hair net in the 1950s required you to make more choices than ordering a coffee at Starbucks today. And I&#8217... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405655 Tue, 12 May 2009 06:01:14 +0100 2405655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2398951&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F10%2Fexpiration-dates-on-cosmetics%2F Stephanie says…In some products they have a picture of what looks like a cream jar with a number followed by a capital “M”. For example, in Revlon’s Colorstay Liquid Eye Pen (the one with the felt tip) the jar appears with “6M” inside the picture. What does this mean? The Right Brain responds: Steph, what you’re referring to is the symbol for “Period After Opening,” or PAO, which is a type of expiration date that is required on cosmetics sold in the European Union. We mentioned this on our post on 4 Ways To Tell If Your Cosmetic Has Expired but we’ll go into more detail here for those in the Beauty Brains community who may not be familiar with this symbol and what it means. Expiration dates and PAO The period after opening symbol ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2398951 Sun, 10 May 2009 06:01:15 +0100 2398951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2398952&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F09%2Fmore-natural-cosmetic-nonsense%2F Left Brain laments: I just read an excellent article on the Daily Mail about whether natural cosmetics are really better for you or not. The author raises some excellent points that seem completely ignored by cosmetic & personal care marketers who want to convince you that “natural is better.” Naturally Nefarious Of course natural things like lead, radiation, and snake venom are bad for you, but did you know the following have all been demonstrated through scientific studies… 1. Soya bean emollient (derived from soybeans) mimics the effect of estrogen in the body. This is the same thing that Parabens are said to do and which makes them “dangerous”. 2. Olive Oil on skin slows the recovery time of damaged skin. 3. Lavender Oil & Tea Tree oil can cause... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2398952 Sat, 09 May 2009 15:13:39 +0100 2398952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2390065&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F07%2Fbeauty-science-or-bs-poll-39-answers%2F This report published in the journal Psychological Science shows that people who are excessive hand washers tend to cut other people moral slack. They had 2 groups of people rate moral dilemmas. One group washed their hands prior to rating while the other didn’t. They found that the people who cleaned their hands were less judgmental. Apparently, feeling clean also makes you feel more compassion. 4. Prior to the 1970’s people normally washed their hair once a month - FAKE Here’s the fake story and only 27% of you were able to identify it. Frequent hair washing actually began in the early 1900’s according to this NPR report. But it was in the 1970’s when the trend to wash everyday became encouraged. The power of marketing. It’s not the best advice for you... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2390065 Thu, 07 May 2009 06:01:21 +0100 2390065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382874&cid=t_110820_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fprotecting-vegetables-and-herbs-from.html Just the other day I was looking out the window, admiring my tulips, when suddenly I realized that last year within 24 hours of their blooming, squirrels came and ate the tops right off several of the plants. So disappointing! So I went to the shed, and found my bottle of HavaHart repellent, and set the bottle to a fine spray, and quickly walked up and down the garden, spraying a light mist of the repellent on the plants. Whenever I use this natural formula, which is an animal repellent and a deer repellants I can be sure that it will work, it never has failed me yet.We do have deer in the area, but we don't have as much trouble with them as we do with squirrels and woodchucks, and both of these are repelled by this spray. However, there was a year when we had a drought, and did have deer ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382874 Sun, 03 May 2009 04:05:00 +0100 2382874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382616&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F02%2Fdiamonds-made-from-human-hair%2F Mid Brain muses: Here’s an odd little tidbit I found at an equally odd site called “Strange New Products.” Apparently, a Russian company called Heart-in-Diamond can make artificial diamonds from your very own hair. Here’s how it works: they take a chunk of your hair, mix it with carbon and then process it with their high pressure, high temperature device. And *POOF* the result is an actual diamond, made from your own tresses. There is a catch though, they can only make colored gems - yellow, green, and red ones. But wait, there’s more…you can send in hair from a relative, your new born baby, or even your pet and they’ll make a diamond remembrance from their keratin protein. Just imagine the essence of your loved one enshrined forever in nature&#8... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382616 Sat, 02 May 2009 06:01:36 +0100 2382616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382243&cid=t_110820_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2009%2F05%2Fantibacterial-soap-hand-wash-swine-flu-virus-drugresistant-bacteria-.html Washing your hands frequently with regular soap and water is important to help prevent the spread of germs.  But while antibacterial products may seem like a stronger cleaning option, they are no more effective in cleaning your hands than regular soap and water--and they do not kill viruses like H1N1 (swine) flu. In fact, the routine use of antibacterial cleaning products has been seriously questioned by scientists and studies have shown that triclosan, the active ingredient in many antibacterial products, may make matters worse by creating harmful drug-resistant bacteria.  Stick with simple soap and water and if you can't wash your hands, use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.  —Urvashi Rangan, Technical Po... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382243 Fri, 01 May 2009 23:10:28 +0100 2382243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2380946&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F04%2F30%2Fmore-ways-women-are-better-than-men%2F I wonder why the Beauty Brains never do studies like this.   Here are a few reports that demonstrate some interesting findings about our sense of smell. Women smell better Women are better at smelling things than men. Researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia conducted a study to see how well fragrances hid or covered body odor. They took smelly scents and combined them with different perfumes. Out of the 32 fragrances tested, women were only fooled by 2 of them. For men, 19 of the fragrances worked. This explains why your boyfriend thinks his deodorant shower works but you don’t. Scent will tell Researchers also found that women can tell when a man is interested in her from his body odor. You can read the article for the study details but essentially they fou... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2380946 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 06:44:32 +0100 2380946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376406&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F04%2F26%2F7-ways-to-hack-your-broken-beauty-products%2F Our friends at Real Simple magazine have a great online series about how to fix broken beauty products. They describes the cause of each problem, how to fix it, and how to take steps to prevent it from happening again. Nicely done, Real Simple! Here are the links to each of their suggestions along with a few comments of our own. We recommend clicking the links and reading the Real Simple tips, then come back here to read our comments: 1. Broken Lipstick After you make the repairs they suggest, you can make your lipstick shine like new by VERY CAREFULLY passing it over a candle flame. Kids don’t try this at home! 2. Clogged Hairspray Pump In addition to what Real Simple says, you should also know that a clogged hairspray can also be caused by a poorly designed formula. The resin tha... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376406 Sun, 26 Apr 2009 06:01:33 +0100 2376406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2367636&cid=t_110820_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F04%2F25%2Fthe-sweet-smell-of-internet-dating%2F Mid Brain muses: We recently blogged about how women are better than men at detecting body odors. So it makes sense to follow up with this story from Science Daily that explains how you’ll soon be able to pick potential dates based on their smell. Scent on site A company called Basisnote is exploring ways to capture and profile the body odor of potential partners and then upload them to online dating sites. So before you even meet Mr. Right you can tell if he needs to use Right Guard. The trick to this technology is a saliva test that let’s you classify your own body odor and enter it as a code in a database. You can then search for potential partners who have complimentary body scent profiles. According to a researcher for Basisnote, the technology works based on genes that d... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2367636 Sat, 25 Apr 2009 15:17:22 +0100 2367636