Articles

My city, myself

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is the largest city in the Middle East, with a population of approximately 8 million, and is the city in which I was born. During the twentieth century, Tehran faced a large resettlement of people from neighboring countries, and this enormous influx (from 1900 to 2000 the population of Iran went from less than 10 million to 60 million) of peoples and cultures is reflected in the city's many historic mosques, churches, and synagogues.

Contemporary Tehran is a modern, bustling, crowded and expansive city. Despite poor air quality, and there are days when the pollution is like a fog, the city also boasts fine buildings, good shopping, beautiful universities and of course the gleaming marble iconic Azadi (freedom) Tower and the commanding 435m high Milad Tower — the tallest in Iran — both of which are now symbolic of Tehran, where much of the country's business and industry has its headquarters.

In 1979, following the political, social and economic unrest caused by the Islamic Revolution, many Iranians left to settle in other countries around the world, and Tehran went through drastic changes — the consequences and outcomes of which are still uncertain. While much controversy still exists around the country's social and political systems, there have been encouraging advances, such as the establishment of the Center for Women's Studies (CWS) at the University of Tehran. CWS (their motto is: We Believe We Can) is actively instrumental in and committed to advancing women's rights and representation in parliament, as well as helping women to develop their potential — both intellectual and professional — by encouraging them to participate in all areas of community life, government, and the private sector. The city now boasts more than 46 universities and colleges, many of which take students from around the world.

The arts have always played a significant role in Iran's culture; beauty whether it be in architecture, music, theatre or dance can be found throughout the country, even in the most troubled times. Also, appearance has always been important for women, who have been caring for their skin since ancient Persian times. In Iran some of the old formulas for cosmetics and creams were still in use at the beginning of the 20th century, such as sepeedab a face powder made from chalk and lead, and sorkhab, to add red to the cheeks and lips — some of these can still be found in bazaars or in the countryside. Minerals to cleanse face, skin and body, such as roshoor have made their way to North America as has a form of hair removal called band andazi — and henna is popular around the world.

However, times have changed and many of the old formulas are either restricted to traditional uses, such as weddings or feasts or have almost disappeared. More modern methods of aesthetics are now a part of everyday beauty regimens for women in Tehran. This is where I come in. From an early age, I was interested in health and beauty therapy — somehow the entire process came naturally to me. When we left Iran I continued my studies in this and other related fields in order to further my goals of providing the best that east and west could offer. As I continue to refine the best practices of my profession, I realize how passionate I am about the entire industry, and how much I would like to link my skills and expertise with what I see as the potential (by 2008, Iran had the second highest level of cosmetics consumption in the Middle East) for greater advancement in the cosmetic industry in Iran — making it more easily accessible to the next generation who would most benefit. One day...

There is no question that Iran's troubles are still creating change, but I choose to take the best traditions and practices — those that enhance humanity and encourage growth — from my country and its long and venerable history.

Embrace The World In Peace, Love, Light And Unity

Nikken's History

As a nikken consultant, sharing the story of this successful global company is a privilege for me...

Fukuoka is said to be the oldest city in Japan. Because it is the nearest city to China and Korea and in occasion experiences earthquakes.

Fukuoka was selected as one of Newsweek’s 10 most dynamic cities in its July 2006 issue. It was chosen for its central Asian location, increasing tourism and trade and a large volume at its sea and airport.

Fukuoka has a diverse culture and a wide range of cultural attractions. In its July/August 2008 issue Monocle selected Fukuoka as number 17 of the top 25 Liveable cities. It was chosen for excellent shopping, outstanding food, good transport links, good museums, green spaces and because it’s friendly, safe, clean and close to East Asia.

In this historical city of Fukuoka, Japan Nikken has evolved from its humble beginnings in a small , three room office in to a world wide corporate giant more than 30 years ago.

Mr. Isamu Masuda, the founder of Nikken had a great philosophy and a clear vision that every home is a wellness home. True wellness begins with prevention and prevention begins with balance living. This concept is gaining popularity throughout the world as people embrace a more holistic vision of individual health.

Since 1975 Nikken have been growing to fill the expansive vision that gave the company birth from the very beginning.

Nikken has built a solid reputation globally that is worth of your confidence and committed to your success and is one of the largest and most respected network marketing companies in the world. Their mission is to inspire individuals to discover a whole new way of life and provide them the opportunity to Discover it And Live it, by changing their lives through improved health and financial well being.

Nikken is awakening our energy through their advanced technology that is based on Magnetic Technology, Negative Ion technology and Far-infrared Technology. The company is also socially responsible in respect to the environment. Nikken follows “green” manufacturing practices and wherever possible uses recycled product packaging that is made of natural materials and /or biodegradable. Their facilities are designed to conserve resources and minimize environmental impact.

Contributing to the community is just another aspect of this honorable company. Nikken maintains an affiliation, sponsorship, professional or support relationship with numerous scientific, medical or charitable organizations worldwide. Nikken receives volunteerism award from president.

Nikken world headquarters is located in Irvine, California today, the company supervises operations worldwide, manages research and development and provides support for the thousands of independent Nikken consultants.

Mr. Isamu Masuda began an organization that became the fastest growing direct selling company in Japanese history and from there, Nikken has spread to more than 35 countries. It would be an honor for every individual to become part of this growing success.

Find Your Oasis Of Balance In Nikken!

To learn more about this dynamic company and their advance technology click on Living Well magazine to read the spring 2010 edition, or refer to my products page and True Elements Swiss organic skin care

It's Skin Care for Men

Not too long ago, when a woman brought home her skin care regimen, she knew her husband or boyfriend secretly dipping in to those cleansers, toners, moisturizers so much so that many companies today starting to develop high end skin care line specific for men, simple, quick and easy, one, two, three and out the door they went. The biggest secret men have in their lives is that they care about their skin and well being just as much as women do. Most men use a variety of cosmetic products such as deodorants, perfumes and moisturizers and yes at occasions make-up as well. Sales of men’s skin care products sold in department stores jumped 13 percent last year, more than twice the total growth for the overall and women’s skin care market according to NPD Group, a marketing information company. In 2003, revenues from men’s skin care products rose 10 percent while the women’s and total market advanced only 6 percent. A shift in cultural attitudes has made it more acceptable for men to also look their best. All we see on television and read in magazines, are reinforcing the idea that paying attention to grooming isn’t just a feminine trait. As we grow older all of us develop wrinkles, lines, dark spots and bags under the eyes. For men anti-aging products is relatively similar to women. Presently, there is a steady increase in medical-aesthetic procedures performed in men as well. The trend will continue to increase as they become more interested in improving their outward appearance, a variety of surgical, non-surgical and skin care techniques are being used. My massage to all men out there is your face is what people see first so “Take Care of It & Protect It”. You will gain more self-confidence for professional, social and emotional competence which means more success in the work force & your private life.

The skin you are in

EPIDERMIS: outer most layer of skin; develops from embryonic; lacks blood vessels; is generally thin, but can thicken as calluses. Skin color primarily determined by a dark pigment called melanin, also influenced by the yellow pigment carotene and dermal blood vessels.

DERMIS: lies deep to stratum germinativum; is the second main layer of skin; is well supplied with blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves, glands and sense organs.

HYPODERMIS: not part of the skin, but important because it attaches skin to underlying structures; composed of loose connective tissue.

Why Organic Skin Care?

I came across a beautiful Organic Skin Care with such high standards, as it captured my attention, I received the story from the creator and with the permission I had the honour to share it with you and how the entire story evolved.

In the autumn of 2006 three like-minded individuals relocated to Haute-Provence. Laurent Baussan, Laetitia Olive and Mario Pontarollo shared a vision of a greener and more ecologically responsible world. Inspired by the beauty of the La Claree river and its valley flowing through Provence, they formed La Claree this would become their vehicle for sharing and reflecting the beauty, ethics and purity of their valley in an organic range of ethical and effective skin care products.

Laurent is the son of the founder of L’Occitane, so the certainty of quality is assured. His desire to create an ecologically sound, organic skin care line with true benefits and protective has resulted in Oliv’.

A river runs through it…..

Born at a height of 2400m in peaks situated between the swiss and Italian borders, La Claree cuts a path through some of the most majestic mountainous landscapes in Europe, it’s crystal clear water flowing over winding pebbled beds. La Mere De I’Eau Refers to a legend regarding the rivers source. The purity of our valley is captured for you in all of La Claree’s products.

Why Use Organic Products?

Oil derivatives, coloring agents, synthetic products, parabens,food and ecological scandals, increases in skin diseases and related allergies, cancer, global warming, all factors for serious concern. According to a French study, more than 2 kg of chemical substances penetrate a woman’s skin every year. Now, new technological and scientific methods mean that all the benefits offered by conventional commercial cosmetic products can now be duplicated using organic ingredients. Consumers can now benefit from all the advantages without any of the associated risks mentioned above and organic means a healthy option for both you and our planet….

Creating Organic Skin Care?

La Claree develops skin care ensuring the ingredients are of natural origin and primarily from controlled organic agriculture, with respect and protection of the environment…a crucial factor in product development and choice of ingredients.

Certification and Control...

Certification: there are several certifying agencies that offer organic certification: Ecocert, Nature et Progres, BDIH, USDA…we selected Ecocert as our certification. The criteria meets our strict expectations and they offer the most restrictive requirements for certification, ensuring consumers of a pure product. Ecocert is a French agency of certification (created in 1991) recognized by the Authorities and which proposes natural and organic cosmetic certification since the end of 2002. Ecocert defined a charter with a level of requirement higher than the conventional regulation of the cosmetic products and guarantees a real practice for environmental respect.

Description of the main guarantees of the Ecocert charter

What really distinguishes La Claree is that our own stringent standards go beyond the requirements

Our products are guaranteed:

The ethical attitude and overall approach to our products, ingredients, manufacturing, packaging and finished product speaks to our commitment to the environment and the consumer.

Treatment Descriptions

Acne

This inflammatory disease is caused by a rod-shaped bacterium (Corynebacterium acnes). These microorganisms provoke excessive secretion by the sebaceous glands, which, in turn, causes the formation of pimples, blackheads, and dandruff. Acne is most prevalent during puberty because of the hormonal changes that occur during the period. After several years, usually, the skin becomes adapted to the higher level of sex hormones and the condition disappears.

TIPS FOR ACNE PRONE SKIN

Selecting the appropriate face care products

Ask advice from your medical Aesthetician, get the products best suited for your needs to apply either locally or on the entire face. Follow the recommendations carefully and rapidly notice appreciable improvements of your skins general conditions.

Doctors Advice

Don't forget to address your internal health needs with a doctor, naturopath or dermatologist; Find out what your needs are, if something is good for one individual it might not be good for you.

Choosing the right cosmetics

Oil free cosmetics are strongly recommended for acneic skin. Be careful with oily hair products as they can promote the formation of comedones when spreading over the forhead. Use non-comedogenic products which do not block the pores and allow the skin to "breathe" better, leaving it feeling lighter and fresher.

Avoiding frequent handling of the skin

Are you one who squeezes and picks pimples? If so, this extra attention to the skin may result in eventual scars or dark blotches. Avoid rubbing and touching your skin's eruptions. Instead, apply a purifying antiseptic product that will make them disappear faster without leaving any marks.

Beard shaving and acne

Men using a safety razor should ensure that the blade is sharp. It is also recommended to soften the beard with a cleansing gel and warm water prior to applying the shaving gel, thus facilitating shaving and reducing irritations. Nicking blemishes can be avoided by shaving with care; shave lightly, only when necessary and draw the blade in the direction of hair growth.

Current active ingredients used on the cosmetic market:

Dermatitis and Eczema

These are general terms that refer to many inflammatory skin conditions. Also included in this category are non-specific allergic responses of the skin to many different substances.

Psoriasis

This fairly common condition is characterized by small reddish-brown elevations and patches that are covered by layers of silvery scales. When the patches are scraped away, bleeding occurs from minute points that correspond to the tops of the papillae of the dermis. Tiny abscesses form under the stratum corneum, producing an exudate. The cause of psoriasis is unknown.

Couperose

It is caused by ruptured blood vessels due to congestion of vascular circulation. Slight conditions affect the nose and cheeks and advance conditions affect the whole face. This conditions flares up and react to excess stimulation. If caught in early stages it can be well treated. Always protect the skin with proper moisturizer.

Moles

Moles, which are elevations of the skin that are generally pigmented, are very common. Almost everyone has at least one mole, and the average person has about 20 at various locations on the body. Moles are considered to be congenital, although they often do not appear until adulthood. It has been suggested that their appearance maybe stimulated by steroid hormones. Most moles are benign-that is, they do not develop in to tumors. they grow slowly over a period of time, remain stable for a long period, and then gradually diminish in size (atrophy). A few, however, may become malignant, or capable of spreading to other parts of the body. This change is generally indicated by an increase in size and pigmentation, a reddening of the skin around the mole, and itching.

Cancers

Numerous types of tumors arise within the skin. Some originate in the various layers of the epidermis, some in the dermis, and others in the sweat glands and the sebaceous glands. Most of this tumors are benign and do not spread to others part of the body. Warts are an example of benign tumors. Other tumors are malignant and have the capability of spreading (metastasizing) to other regions of the body. It is these tumors that are generally called cancers. The cause of most skin tumors is not known. How-ever, prolonged overexposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight appears to be related directly to the development of many of them. There is a greater incidence of skin tumors in farmers and others whose occupations require that they work outdoors over a period of years. A higher incidence is also noted in the southern united states as compared to the northern regions. Skin cancers are seldom found in dark races, where the skin is heavily pigmented.

Effects of Aging

With aging, the skin tends to become thin, somewhat wrinkled, dry, and occasionally scaly. Although the actual thickness of the stratum does not seem to change greatly, it may become more permeable and allow substances to pass through it more readily. More-over, with aging the collagen fibers in the dermis become thicker and the elastic fibers less elastic, and there is a gradual decrease in the underlying subcutaneous fat. There is also a decrease in the number and activity of the hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands. Consequently, aging is often accompanied by a loss of hair, reduced sweating, and decreased oil(sebum) production, Melanocytes tend to atrophy with age, so there is often a graying of the hair and a mottling of the skin as pigment production decreases in certain areas. Skin that has been exposed to sunlight over a lifetime will show changes that are more severe than those that are due to aging alone. Such skin show more marked wrinkling and furrowing, and may develop nodules of an abnormal type of collagen. Moreover, aging skin that has been exposed to large amount of sunlight tends to develop more cutaneous cancers than skin that has had less exposure.

Herpes Simplex

This condition is commonly called a fever blister or cold sore. It occurs when a virus that has been dormant in a spinal nerve travels along the processes of the nerve cells and becomes mitotically active on the skin and mucous membranes. the active viruses cause clusters of watery blisters to form. The blisters generally occur on the lips or the external genitalia. They are often associated with any disease that causes an elevated body temperature.

Herpes Zoster (shingles)

Like a cold sore, shingles results from the invasion of the body by a virus that remains dormant in the spinal nerves, generally in the thoracic region. Once the virus becomes active, it affects the sensory nerves of that region, causing an aching pain that follows the nerve paths. Groups of small vesicles develop in the skin that overlies the nerve paths. It is now felt that the same virus that causes the vesicles of shingles also is responsible for the skin vesicles of chickenpox.

Burns

The seriousness of burns results from the destruction of skin, and clearly demonstrates the skins importance to the rest of the body systems. When the skin is destroyed, there is a large loss of body water(tissue fluid)and blood plasma. These losses cause dehydration, kidney malfunction and shock. In first degree burns, only the epidermal layers of the skin are damaged. Their symptoms include localized pain, redness and swelling. Sunburn is usually a first degree burn. In second degree burns there is a damage to both the epidermis and the dermis, but the damage is not severe enough to prevent the skin from quickly regenerating. In the third degree burns, both the epidermis and the dermis are so severely damaged that they can only regenerate from the edges of the wound. The possibility of infection is high and such wounds can result in extensive scar tissue formation.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that is most common in children. It results from the invasion of the epidermis by various strains of staphylococci and streptococci bacteria. Pus-filled sacs (postules) form beneath the the stratum corneum, causing inflammation and swelling. The pustules then rupture and form a crust.

Manual Lymph Drainage

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a massage technique designed to accelerate the movement of lymphatic fluid in the human body. The lymphatic system is responsible for keeping the connective tissue surrounding the cells of the body free from excess water, proteins, bacteria, viruses, inorganic materials like dust & dyes and destroyed cells (e.g.as a result of bruises or other injuries). These materials are called the Lymph Obligatory Load and constitute 10 percent of the fluid delivered to the connective tissues by the arterial capillaries. It is the "obligation" of the lymphatic system to remove these substances. The other 90 percent of the fluid which consists of small molecular substances such as salt, sugar, water, and gases are removed (reabsorbed) by the capillaries of the nervous system. Lymph a clear fluid, carries the lymph obligatory load substances through the lymph vessels which are as thin as silk threads and are found throughout the body . Located along the lymph vessels are the body's 600-700 lymph nodes acting as purifying stations, drawing out and destroying bacteria, viruses, dead cells, and inorganic substances. For those who have damaged lymph vessels due to surgery, radiation therapy, injury, edemas, or a congenital defect. The therapist uses MLD to shut the lymph to an area in the body where healthy, functioning lymph vessels can resorb the fluid. Manual Lymph Drainage works consistently with the body's physiology, in addition to speeding up the removal of the lymph obligatory load, MLD is supposed to help stimulate the immune system to combat pathological conditions (such as chronic inflammations, e.g. sinusitis and tendonitis). The repetitive and soothing movements stimulate pain-inhibitory reflexes which reduces pain at least temporarily. These movements also lower the activity of the sympathetic nervous system causing the patient to slip in to a state of relaxation. The effects of stress can also be reduced.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is an effective & safe way to remove unwanted hair. A thin disposable wire probe is inserted in to the hair follicle, after insertion the probe delivers an electrical current to destroy the hair root. There are three different method available: Thermolysis uses radio frequency to provide heat that damages the hair root. Galvanic Current: that produces a chemical reaction to destroy hair. The Blend: which is a combination of both. Depending on the hair growth treatment may require 15-30 visits and take months or years, every session could last 15-45 minutes and done every two weeks. The method should be done by a trained electrologist, preferably someone who has been referred by your family doctor or dermatologist. There are different methods of hair removal for individuals according to personal preference such as: Shaving, Waxing, Plucking, Depilatories and Lazer.

Excess Hair

Excessive hair on the face or body can be embarrassing for most people, especially women. There are numerous causes for this problem, which is known as hirsutism and hypertrichosis. Heredity does play an important role. Body hair may increase in women during menopause, hormones play a contributing role, also certain drugs, emotional stress & repeated trauma over a long period of time on a localized area can stimulate hair growth in the affected region. If you have excess hair , you should check with your family doctor try to determine the cause. Mediterranean people often have more hair than Nordic people, while Orientals seem to have less hair than Caucasians.

Stress

Stress is something we're all familiar with. Too familiar as a matter a fact. Some stress is inevitable in everyone's life at some point or another, however the excess or chronic can aggravate many conditions, such as arthritis, allergies, asthma, cancer, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, gastrointestinal disorders and hypertension. It could also be caused by poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, or substance abuse. These factors help to set up a cycle in which causes a biochemical imbalance in your body, which depletes the immune system, causing illness. It becomes a vicious cycle. The food you eat, The alcohol you drink, The cigarettes you smoke, The number of hours you sleep each night and The exercise you take play a major role on your physical, emotional and mental well being. Practices such as meditation, Qi gong, T'ai chi, Yoga are particularly helpful for stress. Consult with your naturopathic doctor to keep your body in perfect harmony.

Stress and the skin

It should not come as surprise that any stress would also affect the skin. Excess stress can use up the body's vitamin B supply. Increase perspiration or secretions, that can develop in to body odor. Stress that can trigger skin problems such as: acne, psoriasis, seborrhea(excess oil), hair loss, hives, eczema, herpes simplex recurrences, sores or ulcers in the mouth, itch from yeast infections or candida. Consult a physician, dermatologist, naturopath or if the problem have a more subconscious nature consult with a psychiatrist.

Aromatherapy

Is the use of natural aromatic essences (essential oils) extracted from wild or cultivated plants for healing. Definition of essential oil is a volatile mixture of organic compounds derived from an odorous plant material by physical means. A specific oil is derived from one botanical source with which it agrees in name and odor essential oils are found throughout the plant in the cells, roots, stalks, bark, leaves, flowers and fruits. These oils are the very essence of the plant. They have special qualities in the plant to attract insects that promote fertilization to repel parasites, and to act as a catalyst in biochemical reactions.They are considered to be kind of vegetable hormones and have a dynamic and ionizing potential when used therapeutically to treat human ailments. Aroma therapy belongs to the natural therapeutics as such it is based on certain principles which are shared by acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, etc.

Facial Sculpting

There are ways to improve one's skin by proper nutrition, exercise, proper use of pure cosmetics to keep skin in good, healthy condition. Facial sculpting is a deep facial treatment used in treating facial muscles, tendon's & ligaments. Facial sculpting is used against:

Complementing facial sculpting technique is my natural skin care products which it helps to clean, maintain proper moisture for every individual needs. These products are based on natural ingredients to keep your skin in youthful condition.

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Is an effective, non-surgical treatment to reduce the signs of aging . It is based on the principles of chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of very thin disposable needles in to the acupuncture points on the face. Local circulation to the face and collagen production is then stimulated. The result is a healthy glowing complexion. No side effects, no down time, no risk of disfigurement.Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to effectively treat many conditions and illnesses and to prevent disease. It balances the energy points on the face and body to remove blockages in the meridians. Everyone can benefit from this procedure. The treatments will also maintain the effectiveness of botox. The benefits are many such as: Relaxed muscle tone, Increased circulation, therefore oxygenation of the skin, Increased collagen production, Tightened pores, and bright eyes, Acne skin under control, Nourishment for the skin, giving you a healthy complexion with natural glow, moisturizing the skin from inside, giving rosy cheeks to people with previously dull,tired looking skin, improving of elasticity of facial muscles and overall rejuvenation.

Micro Current Therapy

A delicate electrical flow is passed over the face stimulating and strengthening sagging facial muscles, decreases the visibility of wrinkles and reduces lines, puffiness providing nourishment for the skin and bolsters the natural regenerative process by increasing the blood supply, collagen and elastin production, rejuvenating the appearance of your skin. It is gentle, comfortable and non-invasive.

Enzymatic Exfoliant's

Their main ingredient is a combination of papain and bromelain enzymes. We are able to exfoliate even when confronted with pustules and papules.

This non oily exfoliant in two steps does not have any mechanical action and will not stimulate sebaceous secretions. It will visibly diminish asphyxiated skin conditions, refines skin texture, remove dead skin cells and visibly helps prevent the formation of closed comedones. Improves the efficacy of subsequent products.

Glycolic Acid Peel

Is an "Alpha Hydroxy Acid" derived from sugar cane. It is a gentle exfoliator with mild to medium tingling sensation, resulting in the dead skin cell removal, helps to re-build new cell and increasing blood circulation, smoothes fine lines and improves skin dryness & some pigments that have resulted from sun damage.

Cosmetic Surgery/Plastic Surgery

It is important to distinguish the terms "plastic surgery" and "cosmetic surgery". Plastic Surgery is a recognized surgical specialty and is defined as the subspecialty dedicated to the surgical repair of defects of form or function--this includes cosmetic (or aesthetic) surgery,as well as reconstructive surgery. The term "Cosmetic Surgery" however, refers to surgery that is designed to improve cosmetics alone. Many other surgical specialists are also required to learn certain cosmetic procedures during their training programs. Contributing disciplines include dermatology, general surgery, plastic surgery, otolaryngology, maxillofacial surgery, and oculoplastic surgery. for more information regarding a well qualified plastic surgeon near you refer to their site and book your first consultation. Patient financing are also obtained from proper financial institutions.