Drink Those Wrinkles Away

According to the Deccan Herald, a new study has found that drinking water can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Not only that, certain waters can reduce wrinkle depth more than others.

Any medical professional will tell you that drinking eight glasses of water a day is good for your health. For years, we have been told that staying hydrated adds to clear skin and a youthful complexion.  Now there is solid evidence to back up these claims.

During the double-blind, placebo-controlled study, female volunteers has their skin analyzed with the VISIA complexion imaging system.  Following their initial analysis, the women were asked to drink 1.5 liters of water daily for 8 weeks. In addition, the women were not advised not to change their diet or exercise routines.

A number of the participants drank only tap water over the course of 8 weeks, while others were given mineral-rich Willow Water from England.  Willow Water contains willow bark extract that is high in salicin, an anti-inflammatory agent that metabolizes into salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is commonly found in many skincare and acne products.

At the end of the 8 weeks, the women had their skin analyzed once more with the VISIA complexion imaging system. Researchers found that the participants who drank tap water saw an overall 19% reduction of wrinkles, while the Willow Water-drinkers saw a 24% reduction.

The great news is you can now drink your way to better skin. The bad news? Willow Water is only available in the UK—for now.

Acupuncture for Your Health & Beauty

Acupuncture is common alternative treatment for common ailments and diseases such as migraines, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis. According to a recent article from NewBeauty Magazine, certified cosmetic acupuncturists are using the ancient treatment as an alternative to filler-packed needles.

Celebrities who are known for their holistic tendencies, such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna, are said to be fans of the minimally painful treatment. Some of the results can include reduction of wrinkles and discoloration over time.

While some spas have named the treatment an “acupuncture facelift” on their service menus, this is not condoned by the American Cosmetic Acupuncture Association (ACAA). The ACAA warns that this terminology give clients an unrealistic expectation of the actual results. While the AACA recommends extended acupuncture treatment in order to see desired results, clinical studies have already shown acupuncture to have positive effects on the skin.

Acupuncture originated in China thousands of years ago and has gained popularity in the U.S. over the past three decades. Besides it's cosmetic benefits, acupuncture is used to treat a large variety of medical problems including asthma, depression, sinusitis, fatigue and low energy. Acupuncture can also reduce pain, swelling and bruising after surgery also. Treatments are surprisingly comfortable an sometimes take just a few minutes. For your safety, I recommend that you seek a certified and experienced acupuncturist for your treatment.

To Your Health & Beauty,

Dr. J. Joseph Danyo