May 1, 2018

Pediatric Skin Cancer Scientists Information and Fact Sheet

Mom and baby in sun

Pediatric skin cancer scientists at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are alerting parents of genetic research showing that sun damage contributes to melanoma in children and adolescents as well as adults.  The research underscores the need for precautionary measures necessary to avoid extreme sun exposure for children, including the implementation of routine prevention measures.

Dr. Alberto Pappo, director of the Solid Tumor Division at St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, says there are important things for parents to keep in mind this summer, including simple and effective tips to best protect children from the harmful effects of the sun.

“Don’t assume children cannot get skin cancer because of their age.  Unlike other cancers, the conventional melanoma that we see mostly in adolescents behaves the same as it does in adults.   And although rare, melanoma is the most common type of skin cancer in younger patients and affects mostly teenagers,” said Dr. Pappo.  “Children are not immune from extreme sun damage and parents should start sun protection early and make it a habit for life.”

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a leader in pediatric melanoma research and treatment.   Each year, St. Jude provides treatment and second opinions for patients with pediatric melanoma around the country and beyond.  Each year, the St. Jude Pediatric and Adolescent Melanoma Referral Clinic brings patients and families to St. Jude for two days of expert consultation, as well as medical examinations by leading specialists, educational seminars and an introduction to melanoma-related resources.

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer because it often spreads to other parts of the body. Melanoma gets its name from melanocytes—skin cells that produce a pigment called melanin, which gives skin its color.  Other facts about melanoma, include:

  • About 76,700 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year.
  • About 7 percent of cancers in children 15 to 19 years of age are melanomas. Melanoma is most common in people of Caucasian descent, occurring five times more often than in Hispanics and 20 times more often than in African Americans.
  • Childhood melanoma may not fit into the same routine diagnosis symptoms as adults, instead parents should look for the following:
    • A mole that changes, grows or doesn’t go away
    • An odd-shaped or large mole
    • A pale-colored or red bump
    • A mole or bump that itches or bleeds

For more information on melanoma, visit St. Jude’s Melanoma Clinic’s fact sheet on the disease by clicking here

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April 28, 2018

Coupon code for 15% off Judith August Cosmetics Brought To You By Life & Style Weekly

Life & Style Judith August Coupon on stands now

Life & Style Judith August Coupon on stands now

 

Get your coupon code in Life & Style Weekly magazine on stands now or simply use LS15OFF at checkout for 15% off your entire order at Judith August Cosmetics ONLINE

Offer valid through May 4

Shop for Concealers & Foundation, Blush, Bronzer and more.  Order the iconic Everything Pencil – you’ll love it. $16 – 15% plus a FREE sharpener.

 

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April 27, 2018

Jewelry, Dear Heart Designs, for Spring, Mothers Day, Graduation and Every Day

Nichole Kirk, Founder, Dear Heart Designs

Nichole Kirk, Founder, Dear Heart Designs

 

Dear Heart Designs Founder, Nichole Kirk, has a beautiful note to the recipient with her jewelry. It starts with, “Dear Beautiful You, I hoped you smiled when you opened this package, or happy cried, or took a walk down memory lane”. It ends with “I hope for an amazing journey for you and your piece together as you travel through this amazing beautiful life.”

There are more beautiful and kind words but I’ll leave those for you to find out when you get your Dear Heart Designs piece.

From the website I quote Nichole as saying, “Our pieces are meant to create moments in which you can share your real and raw testimony with another. We believe that being vulnerable opens up doors for other’s to know Jesus.”

I will only describe one piece of Dear Heart jewelry to you today as I am sure you will love to wander through the site and find something you love.

 

Showered in Blessings Necklace

Showered in Blessings Necklace

 

The necklace design that I love is called “Showered in Blessings” ($54). It’s a Dear Heart original, sweet, pretty and simple, with a powerful message. The delicate textured circle represents the world we live in with the crystal representing us shining bright within it as Jesus calls us to do. The hand crafted necklace includes a 14kt gold filled, textured hollow drop set onto an 18″ chain with a clear swarovski crystal inside of it.

Written on the card the necklace is displayed  is a Bible verse from EZEKIAL , “ I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing.”

Nichole’s mission is, “To have God’s light shine through our pieces and customers and spark conversation with strangers with the hope that somebody who did not know Jesus before that moment, can hear about Him and find His love.”

Dear Heart Designs warm my heart and touch my soul.  Thank you Dear Nichole.

 

 

 

 

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April 26, 2018

Pregnancy Products and things you should know, Belli Beauty

Belli Beauty Anti Blemish Facial Wash

Belli Beauty Anti Blemish Facial Wash

This is especially concerning during pregnancy. On any given day, women typically use several topical skin care products, regularly exposing themselves to as many as 200 individual ingredients, including potentially harmful chemicals that can be absorbed through the pores into the bloodstream.
Shilpi Agarwal, M.D. is a medical advisor to Belli Beauty, a line of skin care products specifically formulated to exclude ingredients that studies have shown to have even remote connections to birth defects, miscarriage, etc. The board-certified family medicine practitioner is also a self-described beauty junkie and ingredients nerd. We have asked Dr. Agarwal to provide us with a “red flag” list of ingredients that are commonly found in skin care and cosmetic products but should be avoided during pregnancy and nursing. Check back soon for that information.
In the meantime, I’ll go over just a couple of Belli Beauty products that, even though I am not pregnant or nursing, I love. First off, the Anti-Blemish Facial Wash Complexion Perfect Cleanse is OB/GYN and dermatologist recommended. This product is allergy tested, Free of artificial dyes and fragrance. The formulation is phthalates free and free of any Parabens. Some of the ingredients are Cucumber, Olive Oil and Fruit Extract among other great stuff.
Here are some notes from research I have done on pregnancy and  acne. The Doctors TV quotes, my favorite LA based dermatologist, Dr, Jessica Wu as saying “During pregnancy, surging hormones cause a number of changes to the body, including blotches on the skin and acne. “If you’ve never had acne before, now is the time it will erupt all over your skin,” dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu says. The Doctors TV goes on to say, “A safe solution is the Belli Skincare line of products, which are specially tested and pregnancy safe. They were developed by Dr. Jason Rubin in 2002 and are the only skincare line that offers teratology screening, which produces a higher safety standard that guards against ingredients with even remote links to birth defects.”
The second product I would like to spotlight today is the Stretchmark Minimizing Cream Skin Restoration Correct. Again, this is OB/GYN and Dermatologist recommended. About stretchmarks, The Doctors TV says, “Stretch marks, or striea, are linear dermal tears or scars that occur when the skin is subjected to progressive stretching. “It’s a true injury, it’s a true scar,” dermatologist Dr. Harold Lancer says.
Stretch marks can be minimized with creams. Belli Beauty Stretchmark Minimizing Cream Skin Restoration is specifically formulated to decrease the appearance of existing Stretchmarks of any age or any cause, even besides pregnancy. I have no stretchmarks but use the cream morning and night at the beginning and now once a day. I seem to feel it helps with my cellulite but I do not know that as true and Belli Beauty does not claim that.
I will be back with some facts from Shilpi Agarwal, M.D. , a medical advisor to Belli Beauty. She will provide us with some facts regarding product ingredients to avoid during pregnancy and nursing.
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April 25, 2018

Skin Care Options Found in Your Kitchen Provided By Dr. Christopher Calapai

lemon limes

With Spring’s unpredictable weather here, keeping your skin healthy and glowing can be a challenge. From the heat’s dehydrating effect to humidity’s pore-clogging grief, an at-home facial is sure to provide a quick fix. But with so many products and confusing ingredient labels lining the shelves, it can be impossible to choose what’s best for your skin.

New York City’s Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O., an Osteopathic Physician, board-certified family medicine practitioner and anti-aging guru, has created a tip sheet of his favorite skincare options found in your own kitchen!

For Sensitive Skin: Try Oatmeal 

  • Oatmeal is great for sensitive skin because it contains anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, but also contains soothing properties that would benefit those with sensitive skin
  • How to: Mix two or three tablespoons of finely ground oats with one tablespoon of honey for an extra-soothing combo

 

For Acne-Prone Skin: Try Citrus 

  • Citrus does an excellent job of removing dead skin cells. Lemon, in particular, fights breakouts with its antibacterial properties and can reduce the appearance of dark marks
  • How to: Combine fresh lemon juice with all-natural yogurt to fight acne, while yogurt’s sooths skin and tightens pores

For Oily Skin: Try Sugar

  • Sugar is another great exfoliator that works great with oily skin because it gets deep into pores and lifts excess oil and grime to unclog pores
  • How to: Mix Sugar and egg whites to remove excess oil and shrink pores

 

For Dry Skin: Try Almond

  • Thanks to its high levels of Vitamin E, crushed almond can combat dry skin
  • How to:Combine one teaspoon of almond powder and one teaspoon of water for a simple yet effective scrub

 

For All Skin Types: Try Baking Soda 

  • Baking Soda is a versatile ingredient that can benefit all skin types. Its exfoliating properties does a great job of removing dead skin cells and is simple to use
  • How to: Combining baking soda creates a paste that any skin type can handle

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the “The Stem Cell Guru” by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson’s. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham’s, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers. Connect with him via twitter @drcalapai or at www.drcal.net

 

 

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April 24, 2018

iRestore Hair Growth System Gives Women The Facts

iRestore Hair Growth System

iRestore Hair Growth System

Our friends at iRestore Hair Growth System tell us that 50 percent of women will experience thinning or hair loss by age 50.

This statistic is shocking for some and too real for others, but for the most part it gets swept under the rug (or hairpiece, as it were), and hair loss remains perceived as an issue that only affects men.

FDA-cleared and clinically proven, the iRestore Hair Growth System,  LLLT helmet for hair growth, and hair products and supplements that naturally restore thick, healthy hair give us these facts.

Below are facts that spur hair growth and better overall hair quality.

  • In women, hair loss is characterized by a more visible scalp, thinning at the top of the head and a widening part
  • Hair follicles shrink as we age, and the hairs they grow become lighter and gradually shorter in length until the follicles can no longer grow hair at all
  • In all women, the rate of hair growth naturally slows with age
  • Changing hormones can also make hair dry and brittle, causing remaining hair to become more fragile
  • Aging also causes melanin production to slow, leading to gray hairs

Stay tuned for some iRestore Hair Growth System product spotlights coming soon.

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April 24, 2018

Fashion House Sika’a Urges Fashionistas to Embrace African Designs

Sika'a Este Sinlge-Breasted Large Flower African Print Coat

Sika’a Este Sinlge-Breasted Large Flower African Print Coat

Fashion House Sika’a Urges Fashionistas to Embrace African Designs and Culture with Stunning, Vibrant Pieces.

Sika’a, the fashion brand that brings consumers beautifully crafted African inspired designs, is urging more fashionistas to embrace the vibrant patterns and interesting heritage of African pieces. The fashion house argues that encouraging more people to purchase traditional African designs not only improves cultural understanding but can provide vital support to talented African designers.

The statement follows renowned designer Stella McCartney receiving criticism for using Ankara print fabrics showcased by models of Caucasian and Asian descent in a runway show. The decision led to McCartney facing accusations of appropriation. While such prints have long been associated with African tradition, they originate from Indonesia and were replicated and mass-produced in the Netherlands, where much of Ankara prints are still produced, earning them the name of Dutch wax prints.

Gompa Tchoudi, founder of Sika’a, said, “Rather than criticizing designers that choose to use African inspired prints, it should be celebrated. African fashion is beautifully vibrant, and the continent is home to many incredible designers and businesses that can benefit from the publicity. Fashion is an essential medium for promoting traditions, culture, and a greater understanding.

“Sika’a works with acclaimed Dutch wax prints firm Vlisco to bring stunning African fabrics and designs to a whole new audience that embraces the heritage of the pieces. We believe that all should be able to experience wearable African fashion.”

Sika’a produces a collection of affordable, premium wardrobe staples that draw inspiration from African designs, including feminine dresses, edgy jackets, and must have accessories. Styles are classically bold, bright, and colorful. Through giving traditional African clothing items a modern vibe, the brand makes garments that are both unique and wearable for contemporary fashion lovers that want pieces that won’t go out of fashion.

Core to Sika’a’s values is promoting a positive image of Africa and the creativity if the continent. Through its sustainability policies, ethical consumers know they’re supporting local artisans and communities that work to blend the tradition of African clothing with fresh, modern designs.

To find out more visit sikaa.com/.

About: Sika’a is an African inspired fashion house with an emphasis on tailoring and an electric use of custom-sourced African fabrics. The brand combines traditional African wear with an update, contemporary twist for truly unique garments designed with modern life in mind.

 

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April 23, 2018

FOX Good Day Charlotte, Check in Tomorrow Morning as Enya Flack Presents

Enya Flack previously on Good Day Charlotte

Enya Flack previously on Good Day Charlotte

 

Fox’s Good Day Charlotte is a favorite morning show of the It’s a Glam Thing team. The lovely Enya Flack gets to stop by every month or so to present a Beauty segment.  Tomorrow morning Enya will appear presenting a “Spring Beauty Product Haul”.

Enya will present skin care, hair care, cosmetics and more.  You will recognize some of the products as It’s a Glam Thing Beauty’s Best Spring 2018 Award Winners.

Tune in tomorrow online at Good Day Charlotte or at It’s a Glam Thing to see Enya’s segment presentation.

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April 23, 2018

Timothy R. Jennings, M.D, Keeping A Beautiful Mind and Body Health

pretty woman

Psychiatrist and international speaker Timothy R. Jennings, M.D reminds us that
growing older is inevitable, but many of the afflictions associated with older age, including dementia, disability and increased dependence on others, don’t have to be.

“Aging has a wonderful beauty and we should have respect for that.” Eartha Kitt

Dr. Jennings has some insights. Dr. Jennings prescribes simple, everyday actions we all can take to promote vitality, and prevent dementia and late-onset Alzheimer’s. “The choices we make now can help us to keep our minds sharp and maintain our independence as we age,” says Jennings.

An easy-to-use guide to maintaining brain and body health throughout life, The Aging Brain, is based on solid, up-to-date scientific research, and the interventions discussed may help prevent progression toward dementia, even in those already showing signs of mild cognitive impairment. The recommendations also may help reduce disability and depression.

“This book isn’t just for people hoping to slow the aging process,” says Jennings. “It’s also for anyone who is a caregiver to someone at risk of or already beginning to suffer from dementia. It offers a hopeful, healthy way forward.”

“I take comfort that aging happens to everybody. It’s part of life. Aging offers great lessons in dignity, since the indignity wins in the end. Yes, it bothers me when I have lines or puffiness or droops. But it connects me with the human race. Like weather bringing people together, aging brings people together.” Diane Lane

Jennings, who maintains a private practice in Chattanooga, TN, has authored several books, including The God-Shaped Brain and The God-Shaped Heart. He has spent more than two decades researching the interface between biblical principles and modern brain science. A Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and Life Fellow of the Southern Psychiatric Association, Jennings is president and founder of Come and Reason Ministries.

For more information about Dr. Jennings and to hear his lectures, please visit the website: www.comeandreason.com.

Book Release Date: June 19, 2018

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April 22, 2018

Today is Earth Day, Celebrate the Day with Nubian Heritage

Indian Hemp & Haitian Vetiver Body Wash

Indian Hemp & Haitian Vetiver Body Wash

 

Today is Earth Day. I wanted to be sure that I checked back with Part 2 of Friday’s post. Please refer HERE for Part 1 . As I mentioned, I celebrated Earth Day by finding a new beauty brand or a “new to me” brand that meets the Earth Day initiatives every day. I discarded a brand that I currently use which is not as ethical.

Nubian Heritage is the New brand that I really do enjoy.  I am back to tell you about their fabulous and my favorite products from the brand. I do hope you were able to check out their website.

From the Raw Shea Butter Collection, my favorite is product is the Age Defying & Protecting Body Wash. I had to try really hard not to indulge myself use too much during one shower.  I it smells so great and gives me the feel of an in shower body lotion too. The wash is made with Soy Milk, Frankincense and Myrrh.

You’ll find Avocado Oil in the The Ultra Moisturizing and Long Lasting Body Lotion from the Olive and Green Tea Collection. Of course it is formulated with Green Tea and lots of other earthly ingredients. “Green Tea is revered by naturalists for it’s powerful antioxidant properties.

The Abyssinian & Chia Seed Collection features 16th Century Superfood and Ancient Ethiopian ingredients.  The hand cream is heavenly, especially for me, after a harsh winter and spring planting. My hands were at their worst so this product tops the list right now, with Amarnath Extract & Ginseng.

The products from the Nubian Heritage Indian Hemp & Haitian Vetiver Collection are very softening and moisturizing. The 100% Infused She Butter is rich with Hemp seed and Neem Oil. This is so great for my hands right now but my body loves it too.

I could go on and on as right now I am almost entirely consumed by these products but again, check out the Nubian Heritage website HERE.

Special note: This year’s Earth Day 2018 is dedicated to providing the information and inspiration needed to fundamentally change human attitude and behavior about plastics. Nubian Heritage packaging contains a minimum of 25% consumer resin.

Additional note to Part 1: I am vegan so I love that the body wash is made with Soy Milk. Of course, I stay away from anything that is not vegan. They do offer Goat Milk and Honey products on the website.

 

 

 

 

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