How We Age

Cell damage from free radicals, tiny molecules produced when a cell converts oxygen into energy, is responsible for most of the effects we call ageing. Antioxidants, produced by the body and reinforced from anti-oxidant foods, protect the cells from damage by seeking out and neutralizing these free radicals. BUT these defenses are never 100% efficient. It is the accumulation of the un-repaired cellular damage that fuels the ageing process which can lead to the development of cancer, heart disease, cataracts and premature skin ageing including: oil producing glands becoming less active, drier and sagging skin, AND wrinkles. Exposure to UV radiation accelerates the normal ageing process of the skin and also damages the genetic structure of skin cells, which contributes to the development of skin cancer. Cigarette smoking can have the same effect. Experts believe that “90-95% of all skin damage including wrinkles and skin cancers comes from exposure to the sun.” And this is more than just a cosmetic issue. One in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime and this year alone more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed.  Every 60 minutes one person dies of melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) in the United States. Continue reading…

Welcome to the BodyTools BLOG and The Skeptic’s Guide to Men’s Skin Care

I have always been a “Doubting Thomas” or skeptic about everything.  I believe that most men want just the facts about skin care without the hype. If most men are like me, then most men don’t want a complex regimen or a cabinet full of chemicals. I believe that what most men want is a simple, easy to follow regimen for skin care that will give them simple solutions to their everyday skin care needs and not a lot of false promises. This is exactly what you will find here, the science and research behind men’s skin care products without the hype. Continue reading…

Men With Skin of Color

Men are no different than women in the skin diseases they get. But, while most skin diseases occur in all types, certain skin problems are more common among those with darker skin tones. The term “skin of color” refers to diverse skin types and complexions including people of African, Asian, Indian, Hispanic, Native American, Arabic and/or Mediterranean descent. So if a man wants to look good he hast to deal with his skin, no matter what color it is.

Common Skin Problems for Men with Skin of Color

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ScienceDaily (2009-04-23) — Using a topical application of the antioxidant ellagic acid, researchers markedly prevented collagen destruction and inflammatory response — major causes of wrinkles — in both human skin cells and the sensitive skin of hairless mice following continuing exposure to UV-B, the sun’s skin-damaging ultraviolet radioactive rays.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090421154318.htm#