Skincare Articles

As the summer winds down, crowds of people rush to the outdoors to soak up the last rays of the season. While sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays could wreak havoc on your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.  UV rays lead to increased free radical damage and oxidative stress, destroying epidermal cells and causing inflammation. Sadly, if you don’t take proper precaution applying sunscreen or wearing protective clothing, you could be left with a nasty first degree sunburn. Read more to learn about the symptoms, prevention, and natural treatments you have when it comes to healing a sunburn. The Science Behind a Sunburn Did you know your skin is thicker in the summer than in the winter?  This is one of your body’s natural defense mechanisms for protecting against oxidative stress of UV rays. Another is the pigmentation of your skin, which explains why people with darker skin do not sunburn as easily. Although, all are still susceptible to its carcinogenic and premature aging harms. Your pigmentation, the UV index, climate conditions, and length of sun exposure combine to determine when you’ll begin to sunburn.  For some, this will be in 15 minutes and for others much longer. This first indication of sunburn when your skin turns a light pink is known as your minimal erythema dose (MED).  After this point has been reached, your skin has already soaked up enough UV rays to cause visible damage. Stay in the sun longer and the effects compound. This trauma is not only occurring on your epidermis but on deeper cellular levels as well, increasing free radical exposure and inflammation.  What to Do Immediately After When your skin is red, burning, swollen, and achy, most people want to focus on sunburn relief. However, it’s vital to focus your efforts on healing your damaged skin. One of the first steps you should take when sunburned is to protect your skin from the sun by limiting any further sun exposure. Take a cool bath or shower. Cool water on your skin helps to soothe the skin and remove salt, sand, or other irritants. Avoid bathing with harsh soaps or chemicals that may irritate the skin, or frequently touching your skin.  Also, be sure to drink plenty of water. Drink extra water to stay hydrated, and keep your skin moisturized to help soothe the pain. Expect your skin to begin peeling in a few days. Peeling skin is the body’s way of shedding the damaged epidermis. If you are severely sunburned and have injured your dermis or second layer of skin, blisters might even form.  It’s important to resist the urge to pick at your skin and allow enough time for it to heal. Natural Treatments for Sunburn Increasingly, studies are showing the effectiveness of natural methods for treating sunburn and other skin trauma. Plant botanicals like calendula and aloe vera with its 75 active constituents, packed with antioxidants and glyconutrients, can help ease the stinging sensation on your skin. These natural substances also provide a barrier to keep as much moisture as possible for healing to take place.  Soothing, cooling and hydrating sunburned skin is essential for repair. One of the most powerful natural substances proven to accelerate healing and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress is astaxanthin. This potent antioxidant naturally occurs when marine species like shrimp, fish, or red algae H. Pluvialis are exposed to UV light. The highly-pigmented extract helps shield the body for longer from the damaging effects of prolonged sun exposure. This amazing ingredient was first used by marine biologists and later as a food supplement once its strong antioxidant properties were discovered.  Japanese scientists found that mice ingesting astaxanthin could be exposed to UV radiation for longer periods of time without getting sunburned. Astaxanthin is one of the main reasons why Seaside Medical Technologies’ Post-Traumatic Response Gel with MatrX B™, is an excellent choice to repair and soothe sun damaged skin. By following this guidance, your skin will heal faster and the pain will subside. Still, it's important to realize that once you're sunburned, your skin has already suffered a trauma. Repeat sun exposure will only worsen the damage. While these natural healing solutions are packed with amazing ingredients that aid in repair, I recommend that you protect yourself from prolonged sun exposure in the future. Remember, protect the skin.

When we envisioned our product line here at Seaside Medical Technologies, we knew we wanted to develop a multi-use spray that could cut back time spent on skin care routines without compromising effectiveness. One that went beyond cleansing and would not only purify, but could also be used as a pre-procedure, pre-makeup prep, and superficial wound repairer. That vision is what helped us develop our time-saving skin care hack, the Cytotone Waterless Facial Cleanser. Organic Ingredients are Proven to Deliver Better Results:Made from 79% organic ingredients and 80 milliliters of pure plant water, our cleanser harvests natural botanicals to deliver better results.1Clinical studies have shown that bioactive ingredients help boost our skin's natural healing abilities, minimizing the effects of aging while reducing allergic reactions and irritants.3 We developed a formula that combines plant hydrosols, silk protein amino acids, and key essential oils, like tea tree and therapeutic organic aloe, with our healing elixir MatrX B™: a powerful blend of Organic Arnica Montana, Witch hazel, and Astaxanthin, which is a powerhouse antioxidant derived from red algae. We also ensured it was free of any parabens, sulfates, petroleum, synthetic pesticides, dyes, or fragrance, as recommended by the Organic Trade Association.2 One of the best features of our Cytotone Waterless Cleanser is the mist of its refreshing scent of Moroccan Neroli hydrosol. Steam-extracted from bitter orange blossoms,4 this refined, unisex fragrance is just the right blend of spicy, bitter citrus notes and clinical grade botanicals. Discover the Benefits & Uses of our Cytotone Waterless Cleaner:Our alcohol-free purifier is packed with powerful organic ingredients and fine extracts to provide a homeopathic solution to skin damage caused by environmental stressors and sun exposure. The waterless facial cleanser also works as a toner to help balance your skin’s pH level and give you an even complexion,1 and its regenerating nutrients and powerful carotenoid complexes help minimize redness, blemishes, and inflammation. It’s a perfect time-saving skin care hack for those times when you’re too tired or too busy to take the time to wash and moisturize your skin. All it takes is a cotton pad and your skin will be rid of any makeup and debris. It’s also a favorite of makeup artists who love using it to prep their client's skin before cosmetic application. A simple mist is all it takes to lift grime and oil from the skin, allowing for a clean, even complexion before a touch-up. Now that summer is here, I want to share that my favorite time to use the Cytotone Waterless Cleanser is when I’m on the beach. This is when my skin is most thirsty and craving a refreshing, nutritive burst of hydration. Cytotone is exactly what it needs! What’s even better is the spray applicator is made with a convenient locking mechanism for traveling. This convenient multi-use product is a true skincare hack that will save you time and keep your complexion glowing. Sources:1. https://www.seasidemedicaltech.com/products/cytotonecleansing-water-with-matrx-b2. Organic Trade Association. "Organic 101". Online at https://www.ota.com/organic1013. Douglas, L. (2013) ‘The Natural Option’, Professional Spa and Wellness Magazine, July, pp. 33 – 37, Professional Spa and Wellness4. Tazeka Aromatherapy, "Essential Oils Extracted from the Orange Tree." Online at https://www.tazekaaromatherapy.com/blogs/tazeka-blog/55797185-essential-oils-extracted-from-theorange-tree

by Seaside Medical Technologies Staff Scan your local grocery aisle, and you’re likely to notice a new trend as more and more beauty ingredients are now showing up in everything from energy bars to smoothies. Nutritionists believe this is due to a rising consumer demand for “functional foods” that offer health and beauty benefits beyond its nutritional value.1 While this trend is new to Americans, it’s been happening in Europe and Japan for several years.2The latest hot ingredient to hit the market is collagen. According to Innova Market Insights, just last year close to 300 new collagen-based foods and supplements were brought to the U.S. food and beverage market.1 Despite the higher price tag on these products, they continue to be a hit with over $60 million in recent annual sales.1 So, does ingesting collagen really work? Why is ingesting collagen so popular?As a medical doctor who has spent years studying skincare solutions, I understand why collagen has become the new “it” food ingredient. Collagen plays an enormous role in keeping our skin looking supple and plump.3 As we age, we naturally produce less collagen and our skin loses elasticity causing fine lines and wrinkles to appear. This damage is furthered by smoking, prolonged sun exposure, and stress.2This overwhelming desire to boost our skin’s youthful appearance by replacing lost collagen is likely fueling the demand to deliver this ingredient in more convenient forms.3 Given recent testimonials from celebrities, like Jennifer Aniston who ingests collagen powder in her morning smoothie, it’s no wonder collagen-based food and beverage items are gaining popularity.1The claims on these product labels are unregulated.Unfortunately, promises on food labels are unregulated in the United States, leaving many manufacturers to make claims that aren’t always backed by science. The majority of collagen-based food and drink producers are simply basing their claims on anecdotal experiences shared by a few customers.1What many customers don’t realize is that collagen is only one of the ingredients found in these products. Numerous juices, nutrition bars, and powders also contain large quantities of vitamins like A, C, D, and E.1 This makes it increasingly difficult to isolate whether the ingested collagen is producing the significant impact they claim.Additionally, for vegans and vegetarians, it’s important to note that most of the collagen added to these food and beverage products are sourced from the bones, skin, and cartilage of farm animals.1 This is a concern often not mentioned anywhere on the product’s label.There’s little scientific evidence that ingesting collagen actually works.While sales of collagen-based products continue to trend upwards, the number of relevant scientific studies are minimal.2 Only a couple of studies have been conducted, with most taking place over a short timeframe with a limited population. Given these factors, the statistical significance of these pre-existing studies is often questioned.3 Those in the medical field agree that there simply isn’t enough research to prove ingested collagen has any benefit.1 Many are skeptical and believe that once collagen enters the digestive system, it is broken down like any other protein. There would need to be at least a dozen independent scientific studies conducted with large sample sizes over a longer period of time for any conclusive evidence to be shown.1In conclusion, while ingesting collagen won’t negatively impact your health, for its high cost, it’s unlikely to show any significant results. For those looking ​for immediate results, aesthetic procedures like injectable fillers or PRP (platelet-rich plasma) are a much better solution for augmenting collagen production and are backed by numerous scientific studies.Using a broad-spectrum SPF and nutrient-rich skincare products will also provide much more anti-oxidant benefit than ingesting collagen. Maintaining a healthy diet and not smoking can also help reduce the loss of collagen, improve your skin’s appearance, and boost your overall health. Sources:1. Chaker, A. M. (2018, May 14). Collagen, a Wrinkle-Cream Staple, Catches On in Foods. Wall Street Journal. Retrieved from https://www.wsj.com/articles/collagen-a-wrinkle-cream-staple-catches-on-in-foods-15263076442. Ingestion of bioactive collagen hydrolysates enhance facial skin moisture and elasticity and reduce facial ageing signs in a randomised double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical study - Inoue - 2016 - Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture - Wiley Online Library. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jsfa.76063. Koyama Y (2016) Effects of Collagen Ingestion and their Biological Significance. J Nutr Food Sci 6:504. doi: 10.4172/2155-9600.1000504

by Seaside Medical Technologies Staff In ancient times, people worshipped the sun as though it were a god. Over time, we realized how harmful the sun’s UV rays are to our skin. Not only can it make us susceptible to skin cancer, but the sun can cause wrinkles and premature aging.2 Just as our attitudes toward sunbathing have changed,1 so have the ways in which we protect our skin from the sun .When talking about sun damage, sunscreen protection factor or SPF is probably the first thing that comes to mind. SPF has been shown to be the most effective sunblock against skin cancer,2 but did you know this is not the only option to protect your skin from sun damage ?When it comes to sun protection, there are not only different SPF levels but many different formulations . Today’s sunscreens contain up to 17 FDA-approved ingredients and can be dispensed in lotion, oil, spray, or mineral powder form.3 While most sunscreens are chemically produced, it is possible to find some that are effective, organic, and safe . It is important to learn about the different types of sun protection as not all are created equally. Read on to discover the truth about sunscreen.What are the different types of sun protection?The Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a report each year investigating the effectiveness of sunscreens in America. Their research has shown that while many sunscreens do an effective job of filtering UVB rays, 99% of American sunscreens on the market provide inadequate support for filtering longer UVA rays.3Most SPF-based sunscreens contain chemicals such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, oroctinoxate, among others. Several experts believe the toxicity of these chemicals can erode the effectiveness of the sun protection being marketed.4A good organic alternative to SPF that offers stable sun protection from both UVB and UVA rays is zinc oxide. It is EWG’s first-choice since it provides balanced sun protection without any toxic additives,3 and is shown to be effective at reducing skin cancer and age spots.2Another recommended type of non-toxic sun protection is titanium dioxide, which is lauded for its natural effectiveness at blocking UV rays.4 Consider using both of these minerals in a lotion sunscreen. Despite the rising popularity of powder and spray sunscreens, they are proving to be less effective than their cream-based counterparts.3Other ingredients such as retinyl palmitate have been shown in animal testing to increase skin tumors when exposed to sunlight. For this reason, it is best to steer clear of sun protection products containing this additive.3Antioxidants and anti-inflammatories aid in sun damage prevention.The EWG says “sunscreen should be just one tool in your arsenal,3” this is because there are several other ingredients like antioxidants and anti-inflammatories that aid in sun damage prevention . These help to boost the preventative properties of active minerals, scattering UV rays and reducing skin irritation.Powerful antioxidants like astaxanthin , which is a key ingredient of Seaside Medical Technologies’ MatrX B™ Complex , can reduce the effects of sun damaged skin and lead to substantial improvement in the appearance of wrinkles.The usage of vitamin C and E also offer sun prevention by reducing free radicals caused by UVA rays that can be damaging to the skin. These antioxidants help your skin retain its youthfulness, reducing the appearance of fine line and sun-darkened age spots while offering skin cancer prevention.How to repair your skin after sun damage:If your sun protection option wasn’t chosen carefully enough or proved ineffective, you’ll likely be left with red, sunburned skin. Ease the pain and inflammation with organic botanical extracts and healing agents like aloe vera .Witch hazel is another ingredient that can soothe sunburn and reduce skin irritation. Other botanicals like licorice, chamomile, echinacea, lavender, and rosemary are potent anti-inflammatories that help your skin repair after sun damage.3Seaside Medical Technologies’ Post-Traumatic Response Gel with  MatrX B™ complex incorporates powerful organic ingredients such as astaxanthin, arnica, and witch hazel to allow the skin to heal faster from sun damage. Try out this restorative elixir and let it soothe and repair your skin. Sources:1. Mingoia, J., Hutchinson, A. & Wilson, C. Int.J. Behav. Med. (2017) “Sex Differences in the Relationship Between Socio-Cultural Norms and Sunbathing” 24: 428. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12529-016-9606-32. Koch, S., Pettigrew, S., Strickland, M. et al. J Canc Educ (2017) “Sunscreen Increasingly Overshadows Alternative Sun-Protection Strategies” 32: 528. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-016-0986-53. Sunscreens, E. 2017 G. to. (n.d.). EWG’s 2017 Guide to Safer Sunscreens. https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/imperfect-protection4. Donathan G. Beasley et al., Characterization of the UVA Protection Provided by Avobenzone, Zinc Oxide, and Titanium Dioxide in Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Products. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2010. 11(6), 413–421.

by Dr. Nasimeh Yazdani and Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch Your lips are an important feature of your face that help you articulate words, sense foods, and serve as an erogenous zone.  They are especially sensitive organs containing triple the nerve receptors than other parts of the face.  That explains why kissing feels so good, and why aesthetic procedures such as lip fillers hurt much more than other areas of the face.  Healthy lips appear shiny, slightly pinkish and have a smooth and soft surface, as opposed to dry, flaky, damaged lips.  You may be familiar with the term dermatitis or eczema, which describes any inflammation of the skin whether it is due to an infection, trauma, or a chronic condition. One cause of eczema is atopic dermatitis localized on the lips. Features of lip eczema include scaling of skin, itching, redness, skin thickening, and dryness.  It's having chapped lips all the time.   The Immune System Behind Lip Eczema  The skin has many protective layers, and when the top layers’ barrier is damaged or when small particles enter the immunogenic layer, a host of physiologic reactions take place to protect you from harm.  Whether it is a cosmetic ingredient or poison ivy, if the skin perceives it as a harmful substance, then it will process antibodies or other types of immune cells, ie T cells against that substance. Upon subsequent exposures, the fired up immune cells release inflammatory chemicals in an attempt to neutralize the invading substance, and a dermatitis reaction takes place.  Depending on the toxicity of the substance, such as poison ivy where only one exposure can elicit the reaction, other seemingly benign ingredients, found in various cosmetics and skincare may require repeated exposures before the immune system responds.   Environmental Triggers Commonly Associated with Lip Eczema  Cosmetic ingredients- lipstick or chapstick dyes, fragrances, Balsam of Peru Skincare- petrolatum, dimethicone, lanolin*, parabens, methylchloriosothiazolinone, emulsifiers, solvents Microbes Climate factors- extreme cold or dry weather, sunburn  Physical trauma- excessive lip smacking Allergens in foods- dairy, shellfish, soy  Stress- shown to exacerbate dermatitis  Minerals-chromium salts, and manganese salts (all found in cosmetics).  How Not to Treat Lip Eczema  Various compounds are used to provide temporary relief for people with lip eczema. However, using the wrong product can make the condition worse. For example, a doctor may prescribe barrier creams for eczema on the hands, but these are not ideal for the lip area due to the heavier formulation and oily nature of these creams.  And despite its widespread use, topical steroid creams such as hydrocortisone have been shown to thin skin's barrier potency and lead to recurrent episodes of lip eczema.  Well described research articles and book chapters recommend against the use of topical steroids for sensitive areas of the face, such as lips.  Over the counter chapsticks or lip balms often contain the same harmful substances which triggered the immune cells in the first place. If your doctor recommends sunscreen protection, avoid oxybenzone containing sunscreens.    It is always best to read skin care product labels carefully to avoid exposure to ingredients that can lead to lip eczema.  Be wary of “dermatologists recommended” products which contain sensitizers such as lanolin, parabens and fragrance.  Healing Lip Eczema Opt for simple, clean ingredients rich in butters to reconstitute the barrier of the broken epidermis and soothe the lips.  This will allow your natural healing abilities time to heal.  Avoid licking lips repeatedly, reduce stress, stay away from food allergens and cover lip area when in extreme weather.  It is important to avoid skin care products and cosmetics that contain common allergens described above.  This may mean not wearing lipstick for a while.  (I know, this was the hardest part for me).   Non-medicinal methods to relieve lip eczema symptoms can include cool compresses for acute inflammation to suppresses vesiculation. For healing purposes, choose products such as Response Gel with MatrX B which contains natural antioxidants to quicken healing of lip eczema.    1: Schena D, Fantuzzi F, Girolomoni G. Contact allergy in chronic eczematous lip dermatitis. Eur J Dermatol. 2008 Nov-Dec;18(6):688-92. 2. Anthony Du Vivier, Atlas of Clinical Dermatology. Elsevier/Saunders, Dec 12, 2012.  

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch When thinking about beauty spas, one of the main images that may come to mind is that of lying down relaxing while reaping the benefits of a skin-rejuvenating facial mask. However, getting a face mask doesn’t have to be a luxury, and it has skin health benefits that we all can avail ourselves of. Purchased or homemade masks have some core properties that help to address a number of issues with the skin. There are various types of masks with varying properties that are used according to the skin care goal.  What makes a good face mask? People who have acne and blemish-prone skin can benefit from mask treatments that help remove dead skin and excess oil. Hydrating face masks that add moisture provide relief for those with a tendency toward dry skin. However, if cleansing is the goal, a mask can serve as an invigorating skin treatment. This is because most ingredients used for the different variety of masks contain antioxidants that limit damage to proteins, fats, and other skin cell components.  One skin care substance that is indispensable in masks and other skin treatment products is astaxanthin. What is astaxanthin? This is a powerful, yet gentle antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Laboratory research with skin cells showed that treatment of the cells with astaxanthin was able to suppress ultraviolet B-induced secretion of damaging inflammatory molecules (1). Arnica has anti-inflammatory and healing properties by acting on immune cells called macrophages (2). This is why it has much utility in bruise and other traumatic skin healing.  Witch hazel has been around for years as a skin toner, but it also has anti-inflammatory and skin healing properties (3). The extract from the bark of the willow tree contains an aspirin-like substance that has contributed to its use for pain for centuries. It also contains tannins that act as astringents and flavonoids that are great antioxidants. These help to exfoliate the skin, combat acne, and provide anti-aging effects (4). Cytotone Facial Scrub & Mask contains these healthful skincare ingredients that cleanse, rejuvenate, and promote the skin’s healing abilities. This combined with a candle or smokeless incense after a steamy shower will give you a spa-quality home facial therapy - a luxury we all deserve.   1. Tominaga K, Hongo N, Fujishita M, Takahashi Y, Adachi Y. Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin deterioration. Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition. 2017;61(1):33-39.    2. Marzotto M, Bonafini C, Olioso D, et al. Arnica montana Stimulates Extracellular Matrix Gene Expression in a Macrophage Cell Line Differentiated to Wound-Healing Phenotype. Rajasingh J, ed. PLoS ONE. 2016;11(11):e0166340.    3. Korting HC, Schäfer-Korting M, Hart H, Laux P, Schmid M. Anti-inflammatory activity of hamamelis distillate applied topically to the skin. Influence of vehicle and dose. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1993;44(4):315-8.   4. Bassino E, Gasparri F, Munaron L. Pleiotropic Effects of White Willow Bark and 1,2-Decanediol on Human Adult Keratinocytes. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2017 Nov 8;31(1):10-18.

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch There is a growing number and variety of cannabis products available to address a diversity of medical and health issues from conditions such as epilepsy and cardiovascular conditions to pain and inflammation. However, the knowledge of the use of medical cannabis is hardly a new phenomenon. For example, earlier than 2000 years B.C., cannabis was used in China as a tea for the treatment of malaria, rheumatism, gout, and beriberi (1). During the medieval period, it was used to treat tumors, respiratory ailments, and liver conditions. Oil prepared from cannabis leaves were used in the past in Indian and Arabic countries to relieve neuropathic pain, earaches, and hemorrhoids (2).In various countries, people continue to recognize the long known and ancient uses of cannabis (CBD) for pain relief. Many people soak cannabis in alcohol, and use the mixture as a topical treatment for inflammation and pain of muscles and joints. Results of informal reports and surveys of patients with arthritis and other types of pain indicate that there may be a benefit of cannabis use for reducing pain in these patients (3,4). Information available from a naturopathic pain clinic in the state of Washington indicates that many patients with chronic and exercise-induced pain benefit from toxic-free relief (5). Overall, many people are very much aware of the medicinal benefits of cannabis and often seek this method of pain control as an alternative to opioids, which have many adverse effects including the high risk of drug dependence.One variety of cannabis, hemp, was also used extensively and continues to be a very versatile plant for medical and nonmedical use. Hemp has a much lower tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the mind-altering component) content and higher cannabidiol (CBD) content then the variety known as marijuana. Although THC has medical uses including as an analgesic (pain reliever), CBD is a highly studied compound for its wide-ranging medical uses and lack of mind-altering properties. Medical research studies have demonstrated its effectiveness as an anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory agent, and analgesic. THC and CBD are plant cannabinoids that cause their medical effects by acting on the body’s natural endocannabinoid system, which is made up of natural endocannabinoid neurotransmitters, their receptors (CB1 and CB2), and other molecules involved in the production and control of these components. Activation of endocannabinoid receptors in pain pathways of the spinal cord and brain inhibits the release of other neurotransmitters. In essence, the transmission of pain signals is modified when cannabinoids such as THC and CBD activate endocannabinoid receptors.The very restrictive federal regulations for the use of cannabis products has made it difficult for scientist to conduct clinical studies regarding its medical effects. However, changes in the laws at the state level have provided access to cannabis use for medical and even recreational purposes. More data is now emerging from US and international researchers regarding the medical use of cannabis products including CBD. Some of the studies focused on pain reduction involve oral dosing with CBD; however, a few scientific studies have been published regarding its effect on pain when given topically. Topical cannabis was studied in patients as a new treatment for wound pain (6). The results of the study showed that patients with a skin condition called pyoderma grangrenosum (chronic ulcerous wounds) experienced significant relief with a topical cannabis extract. A study looking at the effects of CBD for muscle and joint pain was conducted in rats with knee joint arthritis. CBD gel was applied to the skin of rats for 4 days, and various signs of inflammation were measured. The rats receiving the CBD gel showed significantly less joint inflammation than those that did not receive it (7). Historical evidence and recent studies provide the basis for newly developed topical CBD creams and ointments used to relieve various types of pain including of joints, the skin, and muscle aches. Properly formulated creams and ointments can aid the absorption of CBD through the skin so that it could have great effects for pain relief. There is a growing selection of topical cannabis products available in the US, including the Whoopi and Maya line of products sold in California and Colorado. Their topical product, Medical Cannabis Rub (Medical Cannabis Body Balm), is primarily intended for menstrual pain relief. Wellspring markets CBD lotions and creams such as Highland Pharms Therapy Plus Hemp Lotion, Real Scientific Hemp Oil (RSHO) Salve, and more. There is also Nature’s Best CBD Pain Cream, which is a hemp based topical cream intended for various types of pain relief. Another cream sold to relieve muscle aches is Biotech CBD Cream. This is just a small sampling of the growing arsenal of topical CBD products available to relieve various types of pain in people. The uses and availability of even more cannabis products is expected as more states legalize its use. The current legal status of cannabis in California and Colorado, for example, has provided a strong market for cannabis products and is responsible for the growing information available from actual users of the products. Thus far, there are very consistent reports of the positive effects of cannabis use in people with chronic and other types of pain. Future lifting of the heavy restrictions at the federal level will lead to better and specific controlled clinical trials that can further demonstrate the medicinal effects and actual effectiveness of topical cannabis (CBD) for pain relief and other conditions. References: 1. Earleywine, Mitchell. Understanding Marijuana: A New Look at the Scientific Evidence. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2002. Print.2. Ratsch C 2001, Marijuana Medicine. Healing Arts Press, Vermont. Pp. 26,34,39,53.3. Ko GD, Bober SL, Mindra S, Moreau JM. Medical cannabis – the Canadian perspective. Journal of Pain Research. 2016;9:735-744. 4. Ste-Marie PA, Shir Y, Rampakakis E, Sampalis JS, Karellis A, Cohen M, Starr M,Ware MA, Fitzcharles MA. Survey of herbal cannabis (marijuana) use inrheumatology clinic attenders with a rheumatologist confirmed diagnosis. Pain.2016 Dec;157(12):2792-2797.5. Topical cannabis: low-toxic pain relief without a head-high. Online. Available at https://www.drjakefelice.com/2013/11/30/topical-cannabis-low-toxic-pain-relief-without-a-head-high/ 6. Maida V, Corban J. Topical medical cannabis: A new treatment for wound pain-three cases of pyoderma gangrenosum. J Pain Symptom Manage. 2017 Nov;54(5):732-736.7. Hammell DC, Zhang LP, Ma F, et al. Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis. European journal of pain (London, England). 2016;20(6):936-948.

Reviewed by Lorna Nasimeh Yazdani, MD., founder of Seaside Medical Technologies, developed this highly concentrated transparent, amber-hued gel, infused with her MatrX B Anti-Inflammatory Complex, a proprietary blend of astaxanthin (an antioxidant 1000 times more powerful than vitamin C), witch hazel (for treating cuts) and arnica Montana (for inflammation and bruising).The list of beneficial ingredients doesn't stop there. Cucumber Hydrosol contains antioxidants, silica, manganese & potassium. MSM (Methyl Sulfonyl Methane) is also well known in the beauty industry for its anti-inflammatory & anti-aging actions, Next up we have L-Arginine, an essential amino acid with a pivotal role in wound healing. There are also useful and therapeutic plant extracts. One of these is dandelion - high in a multitude of nutrients. I decided to ditch my usual spot cream, & instead I applied a little dollop of gel to the site of a newly developing blemish, letting it dry on my skin (this usually takes only a few minutes max to absorb) before going to bed. I awoke to find the spot had been completely stopped in its tracks (YES!!). Also, after a recent eye exam, within hours I started to suffer with a severely irritated right eyelid. The pain relief was immediate; it was cooling & soothing, with zero stinging. A few hours later I applied it again before bed and by the next morning amazingly it was completely healed! The gel is extremely cooling on contact, doesn't sting in any way at all (even on broken skin) & is easily absorbed leaving no residue. There's a slight natural, earthy aroma, which I rather like, but it dissipates very quickly. I'm very sensitive to overpowering fragrances - I even have to plan my route around the local shopping mall to avoid an aggressively pervasive scented candle shop! - so believe me when I say the MatrX B Post-Traumatic Response Gel definitely passed my version of the "sniff" test! Another consideration is that although this transparent gel has a light amber color, it leaves no discernible discoloration after application, even on my excessively pale skin!So basically, this product is a multi-tasking, skin healing, first aid genius hero! If you buy it for one condition, I guarantee you'll soon find that you're using it for so much more. It's extremely concentrated & potent, so a little really does go a long way, & the 30ml tube has lasted me well over 2 months. For this Truth In Aging review, I would definitely, absolutely recommend MatrX B Post-Traumatic Response Gel!

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch What is activated charcoal? Activated charcoal is increasingly used as an effective method to remove impurities and dirt from the skin’s pores. For this reason, many use charcoal-containing masks to control acne. Activated charcoal (or activated carbon) is a black powder (often pressed into a tablet form) made of substances such as peat, coconut shells, or sawdust. It is called “activated” when these substances are processed by subjecting to high temperatures, creating many small pores which increase the surface area of the carbon particles. This great characteristic allows for the significant adsorption (adhesion) of substances to the charcoal, hence activated charcoal is used in many emergency situations where a toxic substance is ingested. Ingested poisons are bound to the charcoal so that they do not reach the circulation and are excreted by the bowel instead. This property can be exploited for removing substances from the skin as well via activated charcoal facial masks. The concept of the biological use of charcoal is not a new one. The ancient Egyptians used charcoal as a preservative as they found that burned wood (creating a carbon covering) did not rot when immersed in soil.  This knowledge also promoted the use of charcoal as part of the corpse preservation process. The health-related uses were then developed for control of foul odors from gangrenous wounds. Studies conducted in the past ten years indicate the use of activated charcoal to remove odors from very badly compromised skin such as leg ulcers and blistering disorders (1,2). Activated charcoal has gained popularity in many cosmetic products and was rated top rising search word related to skincare in 2017. Beauty Trends 2017 a think with Google study found that in the US and France, consumers show interest in earthy masks with charcoal, clay and mud masks and their use is closely tied to acne, clear skin, hydration and removing excess oils. Not all charcoal facial masks are created equal however, since knowing the adsorptive property of charcoal is crucial in preparing an effective mask. Activated charcoal when mixed with many other substances in a given product, may not do a good job of removing dirt and oil from the skin because the pores of the activated charcoal may already be filled with some of the ingredients that it is mixed with.  The more pure and fewer ingredients in an activated charcoal facial mask, the more surface area of charcoal to absorb impurities from the skin.   Our Cytotone Organic Facial Scrub and Mask contains activated coconut charcoal with long known adsorptive properties, Kaolin clay and natural facial cleansing agents such as witch hazel and sea kelp. Simply made, Cytotone Scrub + Mask captures the full benefit of charcoal’s amazing adsorptive properties. Try a charcoal facial today!   1. Sornakumar L, Kalarani M, Srinivas CR. Activated charcoal dressing in malodorous leg ulcers. Indian J Lepr. 2010 Jul-Sep;82(3):147-8.  2. Chakravarthi A, Srinivas CR, Mathew AC. Activated charcoal and baking soda to reduce odor associated with extensive blistering disorders. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2008 Mar-Apr;74(2):122-4.