War of the P AcnesWritten by Naweko San-Joyz
While “War of Worlds” sets a new sales record for Paramount, this Hollywood blockbuster sends a healing message as old as time itself- bacteria are lifesavers. Even though most microorganisms are invisible to human eye, life, as we know it would be utterly impossible without ubiquitous bacteria. We can all enjoy blessings of photosynthesis, digestion and formation of natural gases thanks to innate power of bacteria to break down substances. Ironically, much of anti-acne industry is built around destroying widely misunderstood yet biologically necessary bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes, or p acne bacteria. All life forms strategize to survive and procreate. Weeds, worms, birds, fungi and bacteria all work to sustain their own lives on this planet. In fact, we humans survive because of biological games constantly unfolding in our mist. P acne bacteria are no different. They want and need to survive. Skin bacteria perform an important function. Bacteria use secretions of our sweat and sebaceous glands (sebum is oil that makes our skin look shiny) as nutrients. P acnes that are in balance with your body prevent colonization by more harmful bacteria. P acne bacteria only encourage acne formations if production of oil on face is excessive. This surplus of oil of prompted by hormonal, nutritional, environmental and/or psychological changes in body. So to prevent acne, you do not what to kill bacteria per se, but keep amount of bacteria on your skin at an optimal balance.
| | Personal care products can lead to CancerWritten by Anita Cherry
Our skin is a two way membrane. During perspiration toxins are eliminated from our body through it. Recently scientists have found that some chemicals when applied to skin can penetrate body and be absorbed by body in significant amounts. Many personal care products contain chemicals which are considered hazardous by EPA. National Institute of Occupational safety and health found 884 chemicals used in personal care products and cosmetics are known to be toxins. The numbers of products used by adults and children that contain potent carcinogens are very high. It was reported recently that 500 dangerous chemicals have been found on a single fat cell in a healthy looking British woman. Another report was of 350 man made chemicals and residues used in personal care products found in breast milk.Ammonia derivative DEA-Diethanolamine,TEA- Triethanolamine and MEA-Monoethanolamine when combined with products containing preservative nitrates form notrosamines which are carcinogenic. FDA urged companies to remove them from shelves but even now almost 37% if products tested contained nitrosamines. If Alcohol content in mouthwash rises to more than 25% it is known to cause mouth, tongue and throat ulcer. FD&C or D&C color pigments are from coal tar and are carcinogenic. Mineral oil made from petroleum ingredient found in baby oil and skin care can hinder skin respiration and can age skin prematurely. Baby oil is almost 100% mineral oil.
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