Kleresca- The Breakthrough in Dermatology

Achieve Healthy Skin With Kleresca

A breakthrough in dermatology has been getting great results all around the world.

Kleresca® is a non-invasive treatment for skin rejuvenation, rosacea and acne. It involves fluorescent light energy which stimulates the skin at the cellular level.

• Inspired by photosynthesis 
• Stimulates skin at a cellular level
• Increases collagen by approximately 400%
• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces fine lines
• Reduces pore size
• Has a high safety profile
• Is generally perceived as very comfortable (even to rosacea sufferers with enhanced sensitivity).

Another bonus is that there is no destruction of the skin’s natural barrier.

How is the treatment performed?

1. The skin is cleaned and Kleresca® Skin Rejuvenation gel is applied.

2. The gel is illuminated for nine minutes using the multi-LED Kleresca® lamp; together creating fluorescent light energy that stimulates the skin.

3. The gel is removed and the skin is cleaned and moisturised.

The treatment is based on the interaction between the specially designed photo converter gel and the Kleresca lamp. The fluorescent light penetrates the different layers of the skin, stimulating repair and collagen production.

Kleresca Acne Treatment

Kleresca is a breakthrough treatment that safely improves acne without discomfort or downtime. The treatment combines a specially formulated gel which is applied to the face prior to going under the high intensity multi-wavelength LED light. The combination of which kills the acne causing bacteria and initiate’s healing. It will also help fade acne scaring. A treatment course is recommended – consisting of 2 treatments per week for 6 weeks.

Kleresca fluorescent light energy stimulates the skin’s own repair mechanisms:-

• Killing bacteria responsible for acne (P. acnes)
  Reducing inflammation
• Normalising cellular activity
• Reducing signs of scarring by increasing collagen build-up

Kleresca Rosacea Treatment 

• Reduces inflammation, reducing the presence of papules and pustules 
• Reduces erythema and blushing by improving microvascularisation
• Reduces the overall stress level of the skin, thereby reducing the feeling of burning and stinging
• Induces a healing response, improving the overall skin quality
• Is suitable for sensitive skin.

Learn more about rosacea here

Kleresca Skin Rejuvenation

• Induces collagen production
• Reduces pore size
• Helps eliminate fine lines
• Reduces signs of scars

Clients at Laser Clinics Australia on the Northern Beaches have been describing Kleresca as a pleasant and comfortable experience.

See here for more information

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / dermatology)

Why Exfoliate?

One of the fastest and most effective ways to brighten up dull skin is to exfoliate — that is, to remove old skin cells, revealing newer skin underneath.

SO …. Out with the old; in with the new

Exfoliating helps with cell turnover, the natural shedding of dead cells that slows down as we age. If these cells accumulate, skin can feel rough and look dull. Exfoliation helps remove some of that debris, so skin is smoother and reflects light more evenly.

Some of the below extract taken from DermRF

There are two different ways to accomplish this instant New Year’s transformation: Mechanical exfoliators polish away dead cells using granules, such as sugar or salt crystals. Chemical exfoliators, which include glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid, dissolve the bond between old cells and the newer ones underneath.

So which exfoliation method is better? Rodan + Fields founders Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields recommend both. “We’re fans of both gentle chemical and mechanical exfoliation, with the key word being ‘gentle,” they explain in their book Write Your Skin a Prescription for Change. “In our experience, it takes the perfect combination of the two to dissolve the bonds between cells without irritating skin and to sweep away dead cells, leaving skin soft and smooth.”

The Doctors’ advice: “Don’t overdo it.” If you don’t exfoliate regularly and want to start, or if you’ve only used one kind of exfoliator and would like to add the chemical or mechanical product you’re missing, give your skin time to get used to it:

1. Start slow, and don’t overscrub. If your skin looks red or feels raw, take a break and give it a chance to recover.

2. Treat your face and body differently. The skin on elbows, knees and heels may respond well to daily exfoliation, while your face may prefer it every few days. And avoid the temptation to use a body scrub on your face; the exfoliating particles may be too aggressive. (If you’re looking for one scrub formulated for both face and body, try R+F Enhancements Micro-Dermabrasion Paste.).

3. For best results, moisturize after you exfoliate.

Why else do we love Enhancements Microdermabrasion Paste?? …because they’re eco-friendly (see here)

Looking for more great dermatological skin products? See here

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology)

Cellulite Fast Facts

In a nutshell ….the dimpled appearance of Cellulite is caused by fat deposits pushing through the connective tissue beneath the skin.

Physicians refer to cellulite as edematous ‘fibrosclerotic panniculopathy (EFP)’. It usually affects the buttocks and thighs but can also occur in other areas. Even thin women can have cellulite!

Contributors factors

• Weak collagen structure of the skin

• Hormonal changes

• Being overweight or having increased body fat

• Lack of physical activity

• Poor diet

• Fluid retention

• Dehydration

• Lack of circulation (blood flow)

• Smoking

• Genetics

Why does cellulite effect women more than men?

Cellulite can affect both men and women. However it is more common in females, due to the different distributions of fat, muscle, and connective tissue. Women’s fat is typically distributed in the thighs, hips and buttocks — which are common areas for cellulite.

As women age, their bodies produce less estrogen. Less estrogen can lead to poorer circulation. This can contribute to a decrease in new collagen production and the breakdown of older connective tissue.

People often think that getting older causes cellulite. However it’s more that the effects of mature skin make cellulite more noticeable. Ie ..it can ‘appear’ worse because as the skin ages, it becomes thinner and loses elasticity.

FACTS

Exercise can decrease the appearance of cellulite

Regular exercise boosts circulation and can help disguise cellulite by increasing muscle tone under the skin. Exercise also improves lymphatic drainage, which carries toxins away from cells. If drainage is sluggish it will contribute to cellulite.

Also, having more muscle makes your skin look smoother and firmer.

Hormones

Hormones can play a role in cellulite development. Estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin influence the cellulite production process.

Dehydration

Dehydration can causes thinner (as well as drier & weaker) skin – which has a much greater tendency to show cellulite.

It’s also believed that not getting enough water can cause toxic buildup in the fat cells (that is then difficult for the body to metabolise).

Smoking

Cigarette smoke reduces blood flow and circulation, which weakens and disrupts the formation of collagen. This causes the connective tissue to stretch, weaken and become damaged more easily. As a result, more cellulite will show through.

Genetics

Genetic factors can be linked to a person’s speed of metabolism, distribution of fat under the skin, and circulatory levels. These can affect the chance of cellulite developing.

Treatment?

Cellulite is a difficult condition to treat, there is no procedure on the market that effectively removes all cellulite permanently. However, the appearance of cellulite can be reduced using a combination of lifestyle changes and medical grade technologies.

Some procedures for cellulite really do work, however the results are often temporary.

Laser treatment – Also called Radiofrequency (RF)

May improve the appearance of cellulite for up to a year or more.

Cellfina – This Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared minimally invasive treatment is proven to improve the appearance of cellulite for at least two years.

After the area is numbed, a Doctor inserts a small device through the skin near each cellulite dimple. There is a tiny, rapidly vibrating blade on the end of the device, which divides the band causing the cellulite dimple. This is repeated for each dimple until the procedure is complete. The downside: It costs around $4K and you will have some temporary bruising.

See more about Cellfina here.

Cellulaze – Similarly to Cellfina, this procedure is designed to break down the structure of cellulite beneath your skin—except it uses lasers rather than blades.

This popular FDA-approved laser treatment involves a doctor injecting numbing solution (into the area to be treated), then a laser is inserted under the skin. It shoots heat in three directions. A 75% improvement is expected. The small laser helps increase skin thickness, release the bands that create dimples, stimulate collagen production, and flatten out fat. Results are supposed to last for about a year or two.

Cryolipolysis – This treatment can reduce fat by freezing the lipids in fat cells. While it can be very effective for getting rid of small pockets of unwanted fat, it will only slightly (if at all) decrease cellulite.

Velashape – This handheld device uses infrared light to help reduce fat layers. It’s FDA-approved, and is considered a non-invasive treatment (meaning it doesn’t require injections or cuts).  It involves a combination of infrared therapy and mechanical massage to increase lymphatic drainage, while reducing the actual size of the fat cells and fat chambers. The device is pressed on the surface of skin, with results starting to appear after about four treatments.

Subcision – Involves a specialist putting a needle under the skin to break up the connective tissue bands. Results can last 2 years or more.

Carboxytherapy – Involves inserting carbon dioxide gas under the skin. ‘Some’ cellulite might disappear. Side effects include bruising and discomfort after the procedure,

Endermologie – Involves a deep massage with a vacuum-like device that lifts the skin. The (FDA) have approved it as safe, however there is little evidence that it is guaranteed to reduce cellulite.

Skin-firming creams? – There is limited evidence proving creams or scrubs with stimulant ingredients (like caffeine, ginger and green or black tea), help by improving circulation and breaking down fat-cell stores. However products containing Retinol may help create a slightly thicker skin cover that can help camouflage cellulite.

Get Your Weekend Glow On

Spray on Tan allows you to look good and feel great all year round without the risks of skin cancer and the harmful suns ageing effects.

Many people associate the glow of a tan with youthful health. Yet as we know, research shows that the bronzed skin we get from the sun leads to premature wrinkles and skin cancer. SO it’s no surprise that alternative tanning is a big business.

Spray on Tan

Not only is it a safer alternative to sun baking and solarium use; Spray tanning allows for an even colour, any time of the year – rain, hail or shine.

It can also help disguise stretch marks, cellulite and uneven skin tone.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is the ingredient that creates the tanning effect. DHA is derived from NATURAL sugar cane. It has a long history of safe use.

TechnoTan Spray Tan is made up of naturally derived ingredients and is:-
• Cruelty Free 
• Vegan Friendly
• Alcohol and Paraben Free

The (2 hr) Bio Tan contains DHA + other exotic ingredients known for their anti-aging, moisturising and hydrating properties – such as Moroccan Argan Oil & coffee extract. It also contains the amazing Centella (famous for its skin repair and rejuvenation).

Tan Prep

For best results exfoliate the day before. This will help remove dead skin cells and to smooth and prepare the skin for an even tan.

On the day leave all deodorant / perfumes and moisturisers off the skin so the tan can absorb evenly.

Where to find the best spray tan on Sydney’s Northern Beaches?

Total Look Beauty Salon in Freshwater

For a great ‘at home’ tanning option see here

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

Laser Hair Removal – The only way forward

Laser treatment for hair removal means fast and reliable, permanent hair reduction.

Laser hair removal is without doubt the most effective way to rid yourself of unwanted hair anywhere on the body. It’s quick, easy and offers instant results. What’s more, it’s a far CHEAPER alternative in the long run!

Over the last decade, laser hair removal technology has advanced significantly. However many beauty therapists and hair removal clinics are still using out of date technology, such as Beauty Grade IPL hair reduction. This is usually because it is a cheaper alternative than investing in the latest and most advanced technology.

Experienced therapists at Laser Clinics Australia use medical grade Candela GentleLase Pro and GentleYag Pro, the world’s most efficient hair reduction system.

Designed with sensitive skin in mind, these lasers are safe enough to be used on any part of the body and target different skin types – whilst ensuring maximum results. Candela GentleLase lasers feature a unique cooling device that helps to calm, soothe and protect the skin.

• No more ingrown hairs
• No more painful waxing
• No more shaving rashes
• Less expensive

How it works

The laser works by directing concentrated light into the hair follicle inhibiting the hair’s ability to grow without disrupting or damaging the skin’s surface.

These modern day lasers use a wide beam which allows the removal of multiple hair follicles at the same time.

Experienced Therapists will take your skin and hair type into account before creating a personalised treatment plan. Required treatments typically range from 6-10 per area, and the treatments are roughly 4-6 weeks apart.

The Candela GentleLASE Pro is designed to work for those with dark hair and lighter skin, while the GentleYAG Pro works best on a darker skin tone.

Laser Clinics Australia has the most affordable prices for laser hair removal and will beat any competitor by 10%.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

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Protect, Glow + GO – with Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid

DERMACOSMETICS Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid with SPF 25 – the last necessary step in your skincare regimen that protects and perfects!

Introducing the new, groundbreaking tinted Glow Guard, Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid Broad Spectrum SPF 25. Formulated with dermatology-inspired skincare ingredients to deliver a radiant, healthy-looking complexion in six flexible shades.

What is Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid?

Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid is a multi-tasking Glow Guard that perfects the look of skin and protects your natural glow, delivering a radiant, healthy looking complexion. Formulated with R+F’s proprietary RD3 Complex, it provides skin with three types of defense: environmental defense, barrier defense, and photo defense.

This innovative product not only provides powerhouse protection but also instantly perfects skin, blurring imperfections without clogging pores or causing breakouts.

Radiant Defense is available in six luminous shades. Coverage is buildable so you are in control of the perfecting process.

Why Do We Love this New Product?

• Environmental Defense: helps neutralize the harmful effects of environmental aggressors.
• Barrier Defense: helps repair skin’s natural moisture barrier to defend itself against dry, irritated skin and the visible signs of emotional stress.
• Photo Defense: Contains broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against sun damage caused by UVA and UVB rays and absorbs infrared light.
• Rodan + Fields’ proprietary RD3 Complex combines a powerhouse of ingredients including an exclusive peptide, which acts as a shield alongside antioxidants such as Blueberry Fruit Extract and Red Algae.

 

Who can use Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid?

This product is for all skin tones from fair to deep. It comes in 6 flexible, natural looking shades. It is also appropriate for all skin types, even for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It is non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.

Use as the last step of your skincare routine to protect and perfect the glowing skin you’ve earned. ****LAUNCHING 2 OCTOBER 2018*****

Click here to purchase

See recent press here

 

Is It Possible To Have Glowing Skin after 50?

Changes in our SKIN after 50 predominantly occur due to

• The multiple effects of hormonal fluctuations
• A shrinking skeleton
• Decreased collagen production
• Accumulated sun damage over the years
• Repetitive facial expressions over the years (causing lines and wrinkles to become etched in).

Some of the typical skin changes that occur during this period of estrogen decline:-

• Dryer (and sometimes itchy) skin
• Thinning skin
• Decreased elasticity
• Sensitivity
• An increase in rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions
• Increased  pigmentation (äge spots”)
• Lines and wrinkles & volume loss.

Fortunately, there’s lots we can do for healthy skin after 50 

Cleanse GENTLY

Cleansing is an important skin care step at every age. However, as we get older our skin becomes more delicate and drier. So we need to use a cleanser that is right for our skin. Choose either creamy formulas or cleansing masks -rather than harsh foam or gel cleansers (which can strip moisture away and compromise our delicate lipid barrier).

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Oestrogen stimulates the production of oils in our skin and also our skins ability to hold moisture. So when oestrogen production diminishes  – dry and sometimes itchy skin becomes a common problem.

Although ‘Dry’ and ‘dehydrated’ seem like two words which describe the same thing;- there is a big difference when it comes to our skin! To put it simply, dehydrated skin lacks water and dry skin lacks oil / lipids.

In relation to skin care, hydration means increasing the amount of water in our skin cells, which results in a healthy, smooth and plump complexion. When our skin doesn’t have enough moisture, it gets scaly, rough and dull.

Moisture and hydration skincare products do different things. A moisturiser tends not to hydrate the skin. Instead it forms a barrier to prevent moisture from escaping. A hydration product on the other hand – actually brings water to the skin. So, it is important that we give our skin the right combination of hydration and moisture.

If you are not using a serum now YOU SHOULD. Most contain effective anti-aging ingredients not typically found in other products such as cleansers, toners, moisturizers,or facial oils.

You Still Need SPF

The maintenance of Melanocytes (cells that manufacture the pigment Melanin) is under the control of estrogens. During menopause, the number of melanocytes in the skin is therefor reduced (due to a decrease in estrogen). Less melanocytes, means we produce less of the protective melanin. Our skin therefore becomes more prone to sun damage.

Although a lot of the damage was caused by the amount of sun we got in our 20s, 30s, and 40’s, it’s still vital to protect our skin from further damage. So include a broad-spectrum SPF as part of your daily skincare regime.

Hit the Brown Spots

Pigmentation äge spots” on the face, hands, and chest can look more obvious around menopause. Help prevent them by using sunscreen every day. Already got spots? See here

Clean up your DIET and consider your GUT

Eating foods rich with antioxidants can help your skin from the inside out. See more here regarding skin boosting super foods to increase in your diet and here for foods to avoid. Also consider:- Omega-3’s

Consider your Mental Health 

Our mind and skin are very much connected. This is now being referred to as Psychodermatogy.

Constant stress increases the production of our stress hormone ‘cortisol’. This then triggers inflammation and can also throw off other hormones in our body.  Increased inflammation is not good news for inflammatory skin disorders.

Stress can also disrupt the balance between the good and bad bacteria in our gut. As we know, our gut health can also cause havoc with our skin. See Gut Article

Take time during your day to reduce stress levels. Try yoga, meditation, pilates, going for a walk, reading OR any other stress-reduction techniques – to help reduce cortisol levels.

Get Moving

Exercise helps keep our skin healthy and vibrant. The multiple benefits of exercise include:-

1. Increased circulation, including blood flow. This
   results in oxygen and nutrients being delivered to
   our skin.
2. An increase in blood flow, also helps waste products 
   to be carried away from our skin.
3. Endorphins (our feel good hormones) are produced. This subsequently helps reduce stress levels and cortisol. This can result in an improvement of acne, eczema and other skin conditions.

Upgrade your Skincare regime

• Upgrade your Skincare Regime / Products – to suit your changing skin conditions. Visit the Solution Tool for further advice regarding which skincare products will best suit your individual skin concerns.

Bulk Up on Beauty Sleep

Getting enough sleep helps your skin look younger. Lack of sleep can cause hormonal imbalances (and also decrease our metabolisms). It can also increase  flare-ups of inflammatory skin conditions and adult acne. getting adequate sleep helps prevent dark circles under our eyes, and it also gives the rest of our body a chance to recharge.  Aim for 7-9 hours per night.

And a Retinol serum at night

Retinol (Vitamin A) is clinically proven to make a huge impact on how skin ages. Dermatologists have been prescribing it for decades as the gold standard for promoting skin cell turnover and collagen production. It helps to correct lines, wrinkles, and scarring and can also help with breakouts.

Minimize Wrinkled Skin

Wrinkles are formed from a combination of too much sun over the years, hormonal change, repeated facial expressions, a loss of collagen, and thinning skin. Wrinkles are more obvious when our skin is dry. SO use a hydrating serum and a moisterising cream every day.

• Some people choose to get muscle relaxant injections – these work to prevent the formation of static wrinkles by stopping the signal between the nerve and muscle. The decreased movement in the muscle places less stress on the skin helping to give a fresh and youthful appearance. Anti-wrinkle injections are made from a purified protein that temporarily causes facial muscles to relax, instantly softening lines and wrinkles and reducing the severity of visible wrinkles. Please contact Victoria for more information on Laser Clinics Australia bookings. Or visit the  LCA website
• Hyaluronic dermal filler injections – once again, this is a personal choice made by some people. A dermal filler helps re-volumise and hydrate the face. Made from hyaluronic gel – a natural sugar already present in the human body. Hyaluronic can help restore fullness and volume in numerous facial areas. Visit here for more details.

Always use an Eye Cream.

The skin around the eye is thinner and more fragile. It requires a different efficacy and mix of ingredients than the skin on the rest of your face does.

Tip – Try keeping your eye cream in the fridge, as the cold cream will help constrict blood vessels to reduce puffy under eye bags in the mornings.

Make sure your using skin products that suite YOUR skin type

It’s very important to choose cleansers, moisturizers, and a skin care routine formulated for your skin type. If you don’t know yours, find out at What’s Your Skin Type.

Skin Boosting Supplements

• Certain supplements can do wonders for our skin especially if its a supplement your lacking in. For example Zinc, probiotics (see gut health), and Omega 3’s (which help with inflammation and dryness). See here for more

 

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

 

Melasma v’s Hyper-pigmentation

….The Low Down

Hyperpigmentation

Is common and usually harmless. Patches of skin become darker in colour due to an excess of the brown pigment ‘melanin’. Usually occurs from:-

• Sun damage over the years
• Post acne or other skin trauma (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation). An example is dark marks that appear after a pimple.

Note:- every time unprotected skin is exposed to UVA rays, a signal is sent to your pigment producing skin cells (melanocytes), to produce more melanin.

 

Melasma

Melasma is a very common skin complaint. The condition causes brown, discoloured patches on the face. Usually on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. It’s also called chloasma OR the ‘mask of pregnancy’ (when it occurs in pregnant women). Melasma is much more common in women than men.

It is primarily related to a rise in women’s estrogenic hormones (such as progesterone), combined with sun exposure. These increased hormones trigger an overproduction of melanin in the skin. It is commonly triggered by birth control pills, hormonal changes in pregnancy or Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Some women can however have a genetic predisposition. Most women with melasma have a history of sun exposure.

Melasma is most common among pregnant women, especially those of Latin and Asian descents. People with olive or darker skin, like Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern individuals, have higher incidences of melasma

Frustratingly, Melasma does not always disappear straight away after giving birth. During pregnancy the best defense in preventing melasma is sun protection.

Treatment for Melasma / Hyperpigmentation

• Sun protection +++
• Exfoliation – Removes dead skin cells and accelerates skin cell turnover.
• Chemical Peels – eg glycolic
• Topical products containing Hydroquinone -helps lighten melasma by inhibiting tyrosinase, which is the enzyme responsible for the production of melanin. Hydroquinone is a naturally occurring substance that is present in blueberries, broccoli and meats.
• Topical Retinol (derived from Vitamin A) – which also great for aging Skin (wrinkles) and acne –not recommended whilst pregnant.
• Topical products containing Vitamin C – help with lightening and brightening.
• Professional Microdermabrasions
• laser pigmentation removal – using specialised medical-grade Lasers.
• Skin needling (Dermal rolling) – stimulates the production of collagen to create smoother, healthier skin. It reduces pigmentation, acne scarring, stretch marks, fine lines, enlarged pores, and scarring in general.
• See the Beauty Booster treatment
• REVERSE – line of products (from Rodan + Fields) – have been clinically tested to help visibly even skin tone, to reveal your most radiant and natural complexion. Please visit
  https://visherwood.myrandf.com/au and try the Solution Tool for a personalised recommendation.

Note- Unless you want to end up right back where you started, there’s no use trying to tackle pigmentation / melasma unless your prepared to keep your face out of the sun. Diligent sun protection is vital.

Other skincare ingredients to look for-

Alpha hydroxy acids, Kojic acid, antioxidants, salicylic acid, licorice, Vitamin E, green tea, mulberry.

Exercise for Healthy Skin

Exercise helps keep our skin healthy and vibrant. The multiple benefits of exercise include:-

1) Increased circulation, including blood flow. This
results in oxygen and nutrients being delivered to
our skin.
2) An increase in blood flow, also helps waste products
to be carried away from our skin.
3) Endorphins (our feel good hormones) are produced. This subsequently helps reduce stress levels and cortisol. This can result in an improvement of acne, eczema and other skin conditions.

Other Benefits of Exercise

• better sleep
• stronger bones
• better mood
• live longer
• decreased risk of heart disease & certain cancers
• increased energy
• increased self esteem

Anti-Aging Super Foods

These anti-aging foods benefit your SKIN & so much more:-

1. AVOCADO is superfood packed with monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. They also contain phytochemicals and other essential nutrients to help prevent the negative effects of aging.
2. Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins, a compound well known for its anti-aging effects. They are also packed with antioxidants – which fight free radicals throughout our bodies.
3. The essential fatty acids EPA & DHA (omega 3’s) in oily FISH help boost hydration, assists with dermatitis, eczema, acne, inflammation, brain function, depression, anxiety, ADHD, heart health & so much more. SALMON, trout, sardines and mackerel are good examples. Salmon is particularly high in astaxanthin, a super antioxidant and carotenoid known for its unique anti-aging benefits. For plant based sources of omega-3’s, some great options are flaxseeds (try cold pressed flaxseed oil), chia & walnuts. 

4.  Hormonal decline is a common complaint of aging. MACA balances and helps normalise the hormones estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

5.  TURMERIC is well known for its anti-aging properties, and it has been used in cosmetic formulations for centuries. According to extensive research, the curcumin in turmeric has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is proving to help with:-

• Arthritis – due to in anti-inflammatory effect.
• Brain and other neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
• Type 2 diabetes- due to curcumins ability to help stabilise blood sugar levels.
• Cholesterol – as it helps lower our bad LDL cholesterol.
• Viruses – eg the flu
• PMS

6.  Dark chocolate (ideally 70% or higher cacao) is a superfood packed with antioxidants. These antioxidants are in the form of flavanols which help to protect our skin from free radical damage (helping it stay youthful for longer). Dark chocolate also contains:-  Magnesium, Iron, Copper, Manganese, Potassium, Phosphorus, Zinc & Selenium.

7.   Nuts (& seeds) are packed with protein and usually contain:- Essential fatty acids, Vitamin E, Zinc, B Vitamins, Selenium, fiber, L-arginine etc. Vitamin E protects skin from oxidative (cell) damage and supports healthy skin growth. Selenium (high levels are found in brazil nuts) is a powerful antioxidant, helping to support the immune system. Studies have even shown that a selenium rich diet can help to protect against skin cancer, age spots and sun damage. See previous article regarding the Skin benefits of Zinc, EFA’s etc.  Some good options are;- walnuts, almonds, brazil nuts, hazelnuts, pecans & pumpkin seeds.