The Psycho-Social Impact of Cosmetics

Our society is preoccupied with "culture of beauty" (Lappe, 1996) which includes notion that our skin must always look young and appear free from blemish. Our psychological well-being is often closely enmeshed with perceptions of how our skin appears to ourselves and others. We define our self-image to include visible representation of our skin to others, so as a result, it has become "primary canvas on which our cultural and personal identity is drawn" (Lappe, 1996). Cosmetic companies set aside concepts of natural beauty so that flaws such as large pores, fine lines and wrinkles are brought to fore, influencing our spending habits in pursuit of flawless skin.

In animal kingdom, most male species are endowed with colourful physical attributes so that a less colourful, but wisely camouflaged female mate will be attracted to it. Humans do not have equivalent ornamentation, so women use cosmetics, specifically make-up, to decorate their faces to attract prospective mates.

The Need for Cosmetics

A cosmetic is any substance which, when applied, results in a temporary, superficial change (Anctzak, 2001). We use a myriad of cosmetics on our skin, from moisturizers to lipstick. Make-up alters our visual appearance by enhancing our facial features through artistic application of colour. It can beautify face and be used to express our sense of self to others. Make-up can hide blemishes, scars, under-eye circles or even out our skin tone. It can boost self-esteem, make us feel more attractive and increase our social acceptability in some social situations. Using make-up can contribute to a well-groomed image, which positively influences our confidence, self-esteem, health and morale.

Skin care cosmetics treat surface layer of skin by providing better protection against environment than skin left untreated. Creams treat skin's surface by imparting moisture to skin cells on outermost layer of skin. It also forms a thin barrier which traps moisture underneath, thereby preventing evaporation of water from skin's surface. Creams also accelerate hydration of skin cells on outer layer, giving skin a temporarily smooth, plump appearance. Exfoliants improve appearance of skin by sloughing away flaky skin, blackheads and some dead skin cells. Astringents improve skin tone and texture by swelling pore walls so dirt and debris do not collect within. Soaps loosen particles of dirt and grime by dissolving greasy residue left on skin from natural skin oils, creams and make-up.

The Physiology of Skin and How Cosmetics Affect Skin Function

Skin is made up of three main layers: epidermis, dermis and hypodermis (see picture).The epidermis is only layer we can see with our eyes and as we age, remarkable changes occur which are hidden from our view. For instance, skin gradually thins over time, especially around eyes. Some cosmeceuticals can minimally re-thicken skin, but process of thinning is inevitable. Elastin and collagen, located in dermis keep skin resilient and moist, but with ageing these fibres break down to create lines and wrinkles. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation accelerates this process, and since few cosmetics can actually reach dermis, idea that a cosmetic can reverse this process is unfounded. The best way to prevent fine lines and wrinkles is to limit our exposure to sun and ultraviolet radiation.

The itching, burning...aghhhh! It's enough to test limits of sanity for any woman. And while yeast infections are thought to be mainly a problem among women, did you know that men can also get them? This is especially true for a man whose wife is suffering from one, since having sex will pass infection back and forth. For a woman, however, problem is a little trickier, since yeast thrives in a dark, moist environment. Simply put, vagina is yeast's dream home!

Many women (and men) suffering from yeast infections resort to remedies found in a drug store: creams, suppositories, and other "medical" remedies. The problem with these is that they tend to help for only a short period of time and then yeast comes back with a vengeance. In my experience, there are other, more effective ways to combat this evil menace. In this article, I will highlight some remedies that have worked for me, as a woman. Most, if not all, of these can be adapted for a man, as well.

Here are some home remedies that have worked for me:

Plain yogurt

The good bacteria in plain yogurt helps fight yeast and yogurt can be used both internally and externally. BUT, be sure you buy plain, unsweetened yogurt. Since sugar feeds yeast, this is a crucial point. You can also make your own, using a yogurt starter. I have done this myself and it is simple and results are quite good. The advantage is that you can use other types of milk, such as soy or almond. While I made mine directly on stovetop, you can also purchase a yogurt maker, if you want to take thinking out of process. Whether purchased or homemade, yogurt is a great thing to eat before meals because it provides "good bacteria" for your stomach to aid in digestion.

For a topical treatment, you can also dip a tampon in plain yogurt and insert it into your vagina or simply rub some on outside. I have found, however, that leaving it on for a prolonged period tends to have opposite effect. It seems that once it has done its job, it is best to wipe it off or you will feel itchier due to moisture.

Garlic

Garlic is a big enemy of yeast! This is one of most effective home remedies I have found for instant relief. Inserting one garlic tab (such as Shaklee's Garlic Tabs) or a garlic clove into vagina every few hours or as needed provides soothing relief. If you use garlic tabs, be sure ingredients are natural and pure. I highly recommend Shaklee garlic tabs. They are what I have always used with great results.

Of course, garlic can be taken internally, as well. Again, Shaklee garlic tabs work great. I have also used Kyolic garlic tabs and liquid in past with good results. Or, if you don't mind smell, you can press a whole garlic clove and drink it down quickly with water. I have found this to be very effective. Do it as often as necessary. Garlic is one of nature's amazing "drugs" that has a number of other health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol. It is a natural antibiotic. In fact, my Greek father-in-law eats raw garlic everyday and, in his mid-sixties, is very rarely sick.

Apple-cider vinegar (with mother)

Apple-cider vinegar has many health benefits (including aiding in weight loss) and can be used both internally and externally, as well. However, it is very strong, so it is not recommended that you apply it directly on skin. It will kill yeast, but it will burn like nothing you've ever felt! The best external application is to add about a cup of it into your bathwater and take a nice hot bath. This will feel very relaxing and soothing and will help temporarily. I don't find it as effective long-term, however, as garlic suppositories. They provide full-day relief.

The type of vinegar I recommend is Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar, with Mother. It is important that it have mother, as this is more natural and less processed. Never use plain, white vinegar! This actually feeds yeast instead of killing it.

Water