Excessive facial hair on women is regarded as unattractive and unappealing among the trendy and fashionable. Although some individuals from various culture and race groups view hair growth as aesthetically acceptable and allow their hair to grow naturally, there is an increasing trend to remove facial hair even among these more conservative groups. Excessive facial hair usually occurs due to the genetic make-up of the individual, medication such as anabolic steroids which causes an increased in hair growth and hormonal imbalances during puberty, pregnancy and menopause. If the hair growth in a woman is thick (terminal hairs), then this may be a condition known as hirsutism. The male hormones in men causes thick facial hair growth after puberty and is seen as a natural part of manhood.

Facial steaming, which is a widely practiced salon procedure, is an important step in the skin care and beauty regime. This procedure dates back to the ancient era where Turkish baths were the part of a daily relaxation ritual. Steaming helps to release oil and dust buildup in the skin, preventing blockages and possibly reducing the severity of conditions like acne. This procedure is widely used by on a regular basis by both young and older persons, as a skin care therapy.

The success of any skin treatment is dependent on the skin’s condition which should be analyzed prior to commencing any skin therapy. Analysis of the skin can only be assessed after the skin is cleansed of oils, make-up and dust particles and examination using a magnifying glass with white light (mag lamp) or a Wood’s lamp may be necessary. To assess the skin type, factors such as the skin’s moisture level, temperature, texture of the skin and the acid-alkaline balance (pH) are important to consider when categorizing the individual skin type.

Skin Lighteners & Whitening of the Skin Complexion

Skin lighteners (bleaching or whitening creams) are a commonly used cosmetic product among men and women looking for a lighter skin complexion (‘fair skin’) for aesthetic purposes. Cultural misconceptions and personal beliefs about the appeal of a lighter skin complexion have made these creams, soaps and lotions a popular beauty product in Asia and Africa among darker skinned ethnic groups. A lack of appropriate regulation in many developing countries allows for these products to be sold over-the-counter although it contains pharmacologically active and toxic compounds like hydroquinones, corticosteroids and mercury.

More Skin Care Tips

Do use products. You should cleanse your face every day using three different products. Cleanser, toner and moisturizer. Use products only for your skin type, i.e. oily, dry etc.

Do drink water. Water is essential for the hydration of the skin to keep it moist, soft, supple and clear. Loss of moisture from the skin is one main cause of wrinkles. You should drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Do rest. We don`t get enough rest or sleep and are often tired. The average amount of sleep we need is 8 hours a night but less than half of us only have 5 to 6 hours. Not resting or sleeping properly will start to show as you age. Not only does lack of sleep make your eyes puffy but will make your skin look dry and dull too.