Product review – Jergens Naturals Ultra Hydrating Body Moisturiser

 

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Jergens Naturals say their Ultra Hydrating body moisturiser is a real hero in combating dry skin and doubles skin hydration instantly. It will be ideal for soothing your skin in the coming winter months.

The moisturiser softens and quenches skin with a blend of Jojoba Oil, Avocado and Olive Oil, restoring skin to a state of pure comfort and natural well-being. Jergens Ultra Hydrating body moisturiser is made with 96% natural high quality ingredients. Jergens Naturals products deliver effective, ecologically responsible and natural products to women everywhere.

What our reviewers thought… It smells wonderful, but not overpowering. No clue to this is given on the beige bottle which is quite simply branded. The moisturiser itself goes a long way, don’t be too sparing as although it doesn’t soak in right away, it does so in a very short time.

 Putting on a reasonable amount gives a really good softening and smoothing effect on the skin and really makes a big difference on rough areas like elbows and knees even on first application. Overall, this moisturiser does what it says on the tin so we highly recommend it. Jergens Naturals Bodycare and Handcare is available in stores nationwide, including Boots, Superdrug, Waitrose and Sainsburys.

Make a splash in your swimsuit – style guru reveals all

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London: Top TV stylist Mark Heyes helps you to find the swimwear that’s right for you.

Is looking for that swimsuit a tortuous experience? Do you find the colour and style you like and then find it doesn’t quite fit your body contours? You’re not alone. Three-quarters of women find it difficult to find swimwear that fits properly, according to new research from INVISTA, owner of the LYCRA® fibre brand. The survey also revealed that a staggering 89% of women don’t feel comfortable when they are wearing their swimwear.

Flattering swimwear is the key to any summer wardrobe – the alternative being a selection of sarongs to cover yourself up with if you’re not quite comfortable with your final choice. The survey indicated that if given the option, one third of women would wave a magic wand and conjure up flattering swimwear for their summer wardrobe must have.

In this video feature, stylist Mark Heyes gets in the swimsuit fast lane, helping you find comfortable and stylish swimsuits that adapt to women’s particular body shapes.

So if it’s something to flatter your chest, make the most of your long legs or give your stomach some tone, look no further. In his ‘Costume Clinic’ Mark is on hand to offer his expert advice, including how to address the trouble zones such as tummy control, with different cuts and colours which play to your complexion and body size.

CLICK HERE to watch Mark’s video and you will step out on the beach feeling confident in your costume!

For more information visit www.LYCRA.com

Natural born killers – watch the body’s immune cells in action

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London: Scientists at London’s Imperial Colleage have captured the body’s immune cells at work.

The mechanism used by ‘Natural Killer’ immune cells in the human body to distinguish between diseased cells, which they are meant to destroy, and normal cells, which they are meant to leave alone, is revealed in new detail in research published in PLoS Biology.

Understanding how this aspect of the body’s natural defences works could help medical researchers develop new ways of boosting these defences to treat disease.

Natural Killer (NK) cells – a type of white blood cell – are a major component of the human body’s innate immune system. Over 1,000 NK cells are found in every drop of blood. They provide a fast frontline defence against tumours, viruses and bacterial infections, by latching onto and killing cells in the human body that are cancerous or are infected with a virus or a bacterial pathogen.

On their journey round the human body NK cells regularly latch onto normal non-diseased cells too, before moving off, leaving them unharmed. Previously, the process by which NK cells made the right decision to kill or not kill another cell was unclear.

Now, the team of researchers from Imperial College London have used high speed microscopy imaging techniques to observe the NK cell decision making process in action. This has revealed striking differences in the behaviour of NK cells when interacting with healthy or diseased cells.

The outcome of the decision making process is determined by how receptors on the surface of the NK cell interact with proteins on the surface of the captured cell. Every NK cell has two types of surface receptors – activators, which turn the killing mechanism ‘on’ and inhibitors which turn the killing mechanism ‘off’.

Professor Davis and his colleagues discovered that if a captured cell is diseased or cancerous, it interacts with a large number of the NK cell’s activating receptors, which makes the NK cell stop dead in its tracks and spread out over the captured cell. During this spreading process the NK cell continuously reads the ‘on’ and ‘off’ signals from its surface contact with the captured cell. If the ‘on’ signals dominate, the NK cell prolongs contact with the captured cell and eventually kills it.

Conversely if the captured cell is healthy, it interacts with more of the NK cell’s inhibiting receptors – and fewer of its activating receptors – meaning that the ‘off’ signals dominate and the ‘stopping and spreading’ process does not occur, allowing the NK cell to quickly move off in search of a new target.

Principal investigator of the new study, Professor Dan Davis from Imperial College London’s Department of Life Sciences, explains:

“Scientists have known for a long time that the proteins on the surface on Natural Killer cells are involved in answering the ‘to kill or not to kill?’ question, but we’ve not known exactly how these molecular cues are translated into the correct response. Our research has shown that information gleaned from its surface receptors tells the Natural Killer cell whether to stop patrolling and commence killing, or to move off quickly, and harmlessly, in search of another target.”

Dr Fiona Culley, lead author of the study from the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial, says that finding out how NK cells use this process to sift out diseased cells from normal ones paints a very clear picture of how these cells do their vital work:

“Considering that NK cells play such an important part in our immune response to cancer and disease, relatively little is known about their functionality – how exactly they work and how they interact with the cells they encounter inside us. This study adds significantly to our understanding of how Natural Killer cells distinguish between healthy and diseased cells.”

The research was funded primarily by the Lister Institute for Preventative Medicine and the Medical Research Council, with additional support from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, the Royal Society and the Wellcome Trust.

Clínica San Roque, S.A. Gran Canaria

Clínica San Roque, S.A.
C/ Dolores de la Rocha, 5.
CP: 35001, Las Palmas de G. C.
CIF: A-35064658
www.clinicasanroque.com
T: +34 928 012 600 –
10% discount on aesthetic treatments

• Anti-ageing programme: Complete investigation and treatments to meet the needs of the patient including: diet, exercise training programmes, peeling,
autohemotherapy-ozonetherapy, facial anti-ageing technques (mesolifting, hyaluronic acid, vitamins, mesoplasty etc), body mesotherapy, lymphatic drainage etc.
• Chemical peels for acne, acne scars, brown spots (sun and hormonal), facial anti-ageing, psoriasis, warts, solar keratosis, seborrheic dermatitis and stretch marks
• Wrinkle treatments including Botox and fillers, gold threading etc.
• Volumising treatments – for lips, cheeks etc
• Vein treatments including sclerosis and laser
• Surgery for the removal of benign growths
• Hair treatments including mesotherapy and hair grafting
• Cellulite and firming treatments – endermology, vibration therapy, lymphatic drainage and mesotherapy
• Nutrition and diet for weightloss, fertilty
• Psoriasis treatments – peeling, light and ozone therapies
• Skin treatments – dermatitis, eczema, herpes, skin fungus, acne
•Face and body mesotherapy including use of growth factors (plasma rich in platelets)
• Radiofrequency, iontophoresis and ultrasound therapies and treatments

Life begins at 69!

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Las Vegas: A 69-year-old doctor has become a pin-up after following a diet and exercise regime that has given him the body of a 30-year-old.

Dr Jeffrey Life, the chief medical officer of the Cenegentics Medical Institute, went from flab to fab on his regime which also included injections of the controversial anti-ageing injection, Human Growth Hormone (Hgh), which helps produce lean muscle.

Hgh, like most of our hormones begins to decrease from about the age of 30. It has been shown in experiments to turn-back-the-clock but may also be associated with an increased risk of cancer.

Dr Life said: “Within the next ten years, maybe less, this is going to be thought of as mainstream medicine prevening disease, slowing the ageing process, preventing people from loosing their ability of take care of themselves when they get older, and ending up in nursing homes.”

Most men want Brad Pitt’s body

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London: More than 90% of males aged 15-40 wish they had better, more muscular bodies, with the majority of men aiming for the physique of Brad Pitt, according to a survey of more than 2000 males.

According to research, more than 90% of males wish they had a better body, with nearly half of the 2027 men polled stating that Brad Pitt’s physique was their desired appearance.

In a study carried out by www.myprotein.co.ukaimed at understanding male perception and ideals, it emerged that only 8% of all males between the ages of 15-40 are content with their bodies, with 92% wishing they were more muscular, and 84% saying they would like to ‘trim body fat. Only 19% said that they were happy withtheir diet.

When asked which celebrity physique they most admire, 49% chose Brad Pitt. The other notables were Will Smith 17%, David Beckham with 12%, Daniel Craig with 7% and Vin Diesel with 5%.

Only 2% stated that they would like the super muscle bodybuilding physique Arnold
Schwarzenegger once had.

When asked which female celebrity body they most admire or find attractive, men were more undecided. Jessica Alba topped the polls with a 21% majority. Here is the top 5:

Jessica Alba 21%
Angelina Jolie 16%
Eva Longoria 11%
Jessica Biel 9%
Jennifer Lopez 8%

Myleene Klass was sixth, with 6% of the votes, thanks to her recent Marks & Spencer advertising campaign, followed by Victoria Beckham and Jordan, with 6% and 3% respectively.

At the bottom end of the scale was Madonna with 0.3% and Britney Spears with just 14 of the 2027 votes, due in likelihood to her constantly changing image.

Oliver Cookson, Managing Director of www.myprotein.co.uk said:

“Given that body image is such a huge issue, we wanted to discover the true extent to which it affects men, whose opinion on body image is often in the shadow of that of the women.

“This research shows that men prefer a healthier, less extreme physique than many would have otherwise imagined. The fact that Brad Pitt and Jessica Alba topped the polls proves that celebrities do not have to be stick thin or hugely muscular to be admired. I think the results of this urvey promote a very healthy body image message.”

Sex & the City – get the look with an Elixir discount

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London: Top London hair salon Stuart Phillips www.stuartphillips.co.uk is hosting ‘Style in the Salon’, a week where you can pop into the salon in London’s Covent Garden and get the Sex in the City look of your favourite character.

Choose the look you want:

1. The Curly Carrie
2. The Seductive Samantha
3. The Slick Miranda
4. The Sophisticated Charlotte

The package includes:

– A cosmopolitan
– full consultation
– A shiatsu and acupressure head and scalp massage on the one of the famous Japanese shampoo beds (15 mins)
– A 15% discount

T:+ 44 (0)20 7379 5304 or visit www.stuartphillips.co.uk

Stuart Phillips Salon, 25 Monmouth Street, London, WC2H 9DD.

Win free tickets to the London Mind Body Spirit Festival

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London:Give your body the holiday it deserves at the London Mind Body Spirit Festival. We’ve got 15 pairs of entry tickets to give away to this annual celebration of everything healthy and holistic.

Take a workshop with renowned facial exercising expert Eva Fraser, master the art of meditation, try out tai chi, tune into Tantra or delve into the array of exciting therapies, products and workouts all under one roof. The Festival runs from 21-26 May in central London www.mindbodyspirit.co.uk

To win your fee pair of tickets email us at readeroffer@elixirnews.com putting London MBS Festival in the header with your name and address by 10 May 2008. Your name will be put into a draw. Please note that no cash equivalent is being offered and the Editor’s decision is final.

Now in its 32nd year, the annual London Mind Body Spirit Festival is the longest running event of its kind worldwide. Bringing together a compelling blend of international presenters, performers and exhibitors, all focused on new ways of living in harmony with themselves, those around them and the world they live in, some 20,000 visitors flock to this inspirational spiritual and holistic delicatessen seeking physical, mental and spiritual enlightenment. www.mindbodyspirit.co.uk

Average person’s heart is five years older than their real age

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London: The average person’s heart is five years older than their chronological age, according to a new study.

Based on an analysis of heart health checks conducted at branches of Lloydspharmacy, and using a protocol developed by Unilever and Boston University, the study shows that people’s hearts are aging faster than they should.

The research is based on a sample of more than 3000 tests conducted on adults less than 60 years old. The study should be a real wake up call for smokers in particular. The findings reveal that puffing away results in a heart age which is a full 14 years older than smokers’ actual age. The figure for non smoking men is 4 years. Women, however, fare better. The average Heart Age of non-smokers in this age group is the same as their chronological age.

Recently it emerged that while death rates from coronary heart disease are falling among the old they are levelling off or rising among people aged 35 to 54, suggesting that there is a middle aged heart disease bulge caused by over-indulgence and sedentary lifestyles.

The findings of the research coincide with the launch of a tie-up between Lloydspharmacy and Flora pro.activ. The initiative was launched by Gloria Hunniford who has been working with Flora pro.activ on a number of heart health campaigns.

Heart health is an issue that Gloria feels passionate about. She lost her first husband, Don Keating, as a result of an undetected heart condition and then her husband Stephen Way suffered a heart attack just after they got married.

Gloria herself had raised cholesterol (6.35mmol/l), and these experiences alerted her to what she describes as, “the silent killer cholesterol”, and made her realise that she needed to take serious steps to protect her own heart.

As part of the link between Lloydspharmacy and Flora pro.activ, people can get a free Cholesterol test and Heart Check worth £15 at more than 600 branches of Lloydspharmacy nationwide in return for two proofs of purchase of any Flora pro.activ products.

The Lloydspharmacy Cholesterol and Heart Check is a 10-15 minute consultation involving, amongst other things, cholesterol and blood pressure tests and a lifestyle assessment. Based on these results a percentage risk score of developing heart disease over the next ten years is estimated.

Heart Age

Heart age is calculated using a range of factors including blood pressure,
blood cholesterol, diet and lifestyle. The Heart Age Calculator was
developed through collaboration between Unilever (the parent company of
Flora) and the Boston University Statistics and Consulting Unit, the department that was involved in identifying the factors that increase people’s risk of heart disease in the world-famous Framingham Heart Study.

About Lloydspharmacy

Lloydspharmacy has 1,700 pharmacies across the country. These are based predominantly in community and health centre locations. The company employs over 16,000 staff, of which 80 per cent are women and dispenses 120 million prescription items annually. The pharmacies have over two million visits per week by customers who are also predominantly women.

Lloydspharmacy is the trading name of Lloydspharmacy Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Celesio AG based in Stuttgart. Celesio is the leading pharmaceutical distribution company in Europe and is represented in 15 countries. With its three divisions, Celesio Wholesale, Celesio Pharmacies and Celesio Solutions, the group covers the entire scope of pharmaceutical trade and pharmaceutical-related services.

Lloydspharmacy which is a community pharmacy has primary care at the heart of its business. This is why has launched a range of products aimed at community health such as affordable blood pressure monitors, Solar Safe products and is a supporter of NHS initiatives such as NHS Choices by providing terminals in-store for patient information.

Get the Hip Hop Body – win the DVD

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Currently one of the world’s leading fitness presenters, Troy’s expertise spans 14 years in the industry. He regularly performs master-classes to over 2000 people at conventions all over the world. Endorsed by leading brand names, Troy is one of the most sought after trainers in celebrity circles and is about to revolutionise fitness through Hip Hop Body.

He has a body to die for, and if you want to look good too, he’s your man.You will find out how to have fun exercising, burn calories, get the max definition in Troys new DVD, Hip Hop Body which has just gone on sale in UK shops.

There are five DVDs, each worth £17.99 for you to win. If you would like one of these DVDs please email us with your name and address and HIP HOP in the header to readeroffer@elixirnews.com by 7 April. The winners will be selected in a draw. No cash equivalent is beint offered and the Editor’s decision is final.

What is the Hip Hop Body workout – Troy answers your questions:

Hi – I’m Amy.
I’m 16 and there’s a really fit boy I wanna impress. My body’s not all that at the moment, and I wanna look buff. It’s not about school sports, the dance floor’s bangin.

Hi – I’m Lucy. I’m 22 and I work at Top Shop. I’m never in on the weekends – there’s always someone’s guest list to be on and somewhere to be seen. I wanna stay trim but spandex makes me wanna die!

Lucy: My mate says you’re The Man. Is it really true that you’ve trained stars like Colleen McLoughlin?

Troy: Yeah, and loads of others. But for me, it’s not about celebrity, it’s about

having the attitude. The girls you see working out with me in the DVD aren’t professional dancers but girls just like you.

Lucy: So what’s Hip Hop Body then?

Troy: HipHop Body is THE new way to get the body you want. Forget the press ups and star jumps. Hip Hop Body will change the way you think about hip hop and fitness.

Amy: But fitness DVDs are just for your mum, aren’t they?

Troy: That’s where you’re wrong. Hip Hop Body is all about expression, attitude, moves and the way you look.

Lucy: Sounds like hard work to me.

Troy: That’s where Hip Hop Body is different. You’ll get the body you want and have fun at the same time – dance is a fantastic way to burn calories and you can do it with your mates.

Amy: I’ve got a flabby tummy. How’s HipHop gonna help that?

Troy: Hip Hop Body is a complete body workout – there’s a special range of moves to tone your stomach and strengthen your core.

Lucy: I love dancing, but I’m not an expert…

Troy: Hip Hop Body is for everyone, from beginners to advanced.

Amy: But I’m really into dance – this isn’t gonna be boring, is it?

Troy: The DVD has a routine for more advanced dancers. It concentrates on performance and is great for anyone who’s really into dance. For the beginner, the work outs will give asense of direction and achievement.

Amy: Sounds cool. So where can we get this DVD then?

Troy: You can buy Hip Hop Body in all the shops now you can also see me in action
at www.myspace.com/troydureh

How to morph your body into a lean machine

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Whether you need to keep calm in the face of chaos or simply keep your waistline under control, this system is no nonsense and it works, says fitness expert Dr Matthew Mills

In his new book, Mind and Body Metamorphosis, he explains how a training syllabus based on Eastern martial Arts, is designed to establish and develop calm, mental focus and improved levels of fitness. The techniques in Matthew Mills’ easy-to-follow exercise regime provide a series of straight forward lessons that can be integrated into daily life.

Most diet or exercise systems completely neglect the everyday psychological issues many of us face, such as insecurity and lack of fitness. This is why they almost always fail to deliver real results. Mills addresses the most common reasons that people give up and offers practical advice to ensure that your ultimate goals can be attained and maintained. Mills’ approach offers a sustainable routine for body and mind, which will go far beyond the usual mid-January demise of those new year resolutions.

Including exercises to help avoid DVT and jet-lag on long-haul journeys, as well as techniques that have been adopted by management teams such as Honda Formula 1, this book will appeal to anyone who struggles to balance exercise with their hectic, modern lifestyle.

When January comes around, forget about that expensive gym membership, this book is the only equipment you will need.

About the author

Dr Mathew Mills has a Masters degree in Human and Applied Physiology and a PhD from the Department of Medicine, University College London. He is a regular speaker at conferences all over the world and has designed stress management and executive training packages for high profile companies aimed at enhancing fitness, health and mental focus. Mathew is also the model on the front of the book! Mathew Mills is based in London.

Mind and Body Metamorphosis is published by Summersdale (ISBN: 978 1 84024 549 3; PB; 160 pages; £9.99). It is available through all good bookshops and internet booksellers or by telephoning Mail Order at Summersdale on: +44 (0) 1243 771107.

Best wishes

Boost your fitness regime with the new Salter Body Analyser

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Christmas parties, Christmas lunch, Christmas pudding, Christmas cake, mince pies and mulled wine, edible and drinkable Christmas presents… the list goes on and on and results in many of us bearing a closer resemblance to the traditionally rotund Old Saint Nick than we might like. And the result; come 12pm NYE we pledge that in the New Year we will be healthier, fitter or slimmer, but that is easier said than done.

Luckily Salter is at hand to aid on this journey with the convenient and innovative #9106 Glass Body Analyser Scale. Beneath the sleek exterior the scale features five smart analyser functions which measure weight, body fat %, body water %, muscle mass and bone mass. There is also an athlete mode and a ten user memory which will help all members of the household to understand what they are made of, as well as keeping track of weight or slimming goals whilst simultaneously giving a helpful health update.

As well as being easy to use, the Salter 9106 Body Analyser Scale is certainly easy on the eye; it’s contemporary stylish design and functional easy to read 40mm LCD display with illuminated icons makes the Salter 9106 Body Analyser Scale the perfect addition to any bathroom.

The Body Analyser Scale retails at around £50 and is available in the UK online and in store from Argos and John Lewis.

Salter is offering six 9106 Body Analyser Scales to ElixirNews readers. The six lucky readers will be selected in a draw. To take part in the draw please email us at readeroffer@elixirnews.com by January 15, stating Salter in the email headline, and giving us your name and address. Please note that no money eqivalent is being offered and the Editor’s decison is final.

Scientists closer to growing tiny blood vessels

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Boston: Scientists in the US are a closer to creating artificial blood vessels after growing tiny tubes out of stem cells.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology team were able to create cells that formed tubes along a grooved template.

Now they plan to produce capillaries which could be tested in animals, according to a report in the magazine Advanced Materials.

Researchers have already managed to make larger blood vessels , but the creation of tiny capillaries is far more difficult.

The US scientists claim to have made progress towards this, using a “nanoscale” template into which stem cells called endothelial progenitor cells are placed.

The cells detected the grooves and elongated themselves along them, aligning themselves in the same direction.

Adding a gel made of growth factors allowed the cells to grow outwards, forming a series of tiny tubes running parallel to each other.

While these tubes are not yet ready to be put inside a human body, the researchers say they are “very excited” by their potential.

The research was led by Professor Robert Langer, who said: “It provides a new way to create nano-based systems which we hope will provide a novel way to some day engineer tissues in the human body.”

The team now plan to develop capillary tubes which can be inserted into animals to see if they work properly.

The technology may also have other uses such as preventing unwanted growth in cancer and tumours.

The LookGoodNaked Margarita from New York’s bar Nacional 27

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New York: Partida Tequila and Nacional 27 Manager/Mixologist Adam Seger has a better solution to help you get a little healthy while you imbibe this season: LookBetterNaked!

This holiday season, Partida has teamed up with Seger to create a new margarita crafted from healthy ingredients for a guilt-free indulgence that fuels the body while it delights the taste buds.

The LookBetterNaked margarita is made from all-natural ingredients, including Partida Reposado tequila, organic acai, organic agave nectar, rosemary, egg white and fresh squeezed lime juice. Using Sambozan Pure Organic Acai and Partida Organic Agave Nectar fills the margarita with antioxidants, amino acids, dietary fiber, iron, calcium, cholesterol-reducing fructans and Vitamins A and C. The rosemary is rich in vitamin E, preventing cancer and skin damage. An egg white provides a lean source of protein, while the fresh lime juice prevents heart disease and gives an extra dose of Vitamin C. The LookBetterNaked margarita is this year’s answer to those countless toasts to a holiday season!

How to make the LOOKBETTERNAKED Margarita by Adam R. Seger CCP Manager/Mixologist, Nacional 27

COCKTAIL:

1.5 Ounces Partida Estate Reposado Tequila

1/2 Ounce Sambazon Pure Organic Acai

3/4 Ounces Partida Organic Agave Nectar

4″ Sprig Rosemary, Top Inch Reserved for a Garnish

1/2 Ounce Organic Egg White

1 Lime Fresh Squeezed

RIM:

Equal Parts Organic Salt with 50 Trace Minerals and Fresh Cracked Organic Green Peppercorns

Remove Rosemary Leaves from the Woody Stem. Muddle in a 16 Ounce Pint Glass until Aromatic. Add Liquid Ingredients.

Rim a Chilled 10 Ounce Cocktail Glass with Salt and Pepper.

Shake Liquid Ingredients Vigorously Until Metal Shaker is Frosted.

Strain into Chilled, Rimmed Glass and Float a 1″ Rosemary Sprig on top.

And drink naked!

Rejuvenate and relax at the Body Beautiful Show London – free tickets from Restylane

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When was the last time that you did something just for you? When was the last time you were really pampered? Well, the time is now as The Body Beautiful Show is back on 2nd – 4th November 2007 and will give you the perfect opportunity for some you time. A luxurious, pampering day out, and a show, which demystifies the world of cosmetic treatments, Body Beautiful is a one stop authoritative, responsible guide to age defying and beautifying.

One exhibitor at this year’s Body Beautiful Show at the Business Design Centre Islington, London, is Restylane.

Restylane offers the complete solution for holding back the years and revitalising your looks naturally by smoothing away tell tale ageing lines. Restylane has the additional advantage of improving skin elasticity. Restylane treatment is quick, taking less than half an hour. The effects can be seen immediately and last from around six to nine months. Discover more about new Restylane Vital a new treatment development in skin rejuvenation, introducing the concept of moisturising from within to improve skin tone and elasticity to reverse the skin ageing process. It is great for treating veiny backs of hands, plumping the skin to reduce their appearance and smoothing the skin to make it appear less crêpey and sun damaged.

Prize:
Restylane is giving you the chance to win a pair of tickets to this year’s Body Beautiful Show at London’s Business Design Centre.

To win, all you need to do is answer the following question:

How long does Restylane last?
a) 6 – 9 weeks
b) 6 – 9 months
c) 6 – 9 years

Email your answer to us at readeroffer@elixirnews.com by 29 October 2007

For further information visit the website on www.bodybeautifulshow.co.uk

For more information on Restylane visit www.restylane.co.uk or call 0800 015 5548 to find a Restylane clinic in your area.

Harley Street body MOT centre opens

London: A brand new health check, designed to reveal which parts of your body are not working as well as they could, has launched in London by leading physiotherapy practice, ES Physical Health.

The first of its kind, the musculo-skeletal MoT will show where a little corrective maintenance is needed to prevent possibly un-noticed physical anomalies or abnormalities becoming critical.

Libby Sharp, founder of ES Physical Health, which has clinics in both Harley Street and Camberwell, South London, says “With most of us leading sedentary lives we use only approximately 60% of the available range of motion in most joints such as our hips, knees, shoulders and spine.

“Add the aging process to this lack of use, and one day you find you simply cannot look round over your shoulder to reverse your car as you once could. It’s important to identify bad postural habits and anomalies as early as possible to prevent irreversible degenerative changes.”

Who would benefit? Anyone who has ever had a back problem is an obvious candidate –even if it was several years ago and you feel you have made a full recovery. Also, if you’ve had an accident – a break or sprain or any kind of sporting injury – you’ll benefit from finding out if you’ve fully recovered a normal range of motion, strength and stability, and that there are no residual signs of neural tension and hypersensitivity.

If you don’t get your range of motion, strength and stability back up to as near normal as possible it is highly likely that you will suffer from degenerative change which will havea limiting effect on your lifestyle. What is there to gain? Through a series of top to toe tests we will note and record small, adverse anomalies in balance, gait pattern and range of motion which, if ignored, could present problems in the future.

By identifying problems and weaknesses we can advise simple interventions such as exercise, muscle stretches and postural alignment. If the MoT can pick up small problems which can be treated conservatively we can expect the person to be able to remain pain-free and able to function normally with both daily living and sporting activities for much longer than if problems or niggles are just ‘pushed under the carpet’.

As we live for much longer in the west than ever before, we need to remain
fit and healthy well into later life to enjoy ourselves to the full. We need to avoid aches and pains and especially surgery, such as hip and knee
replacements. What’s in the report? The written report highlights the important findings using an easy to understand ‘traffic lights’ system to emphasise severe, moderate and mild abnormalities, plus black to denote normal findings. As far as possible we use objective measuring tools and validated tests.

Based on your results we will suggest a range of possibilities – these might include physiotherapy if pain and loss of movement is present; Pilates to improve core stability, balance and co-ordination; a gym routine to improve strength and stamina; a consultation with our Podiatrist for corrective orthoses to improve lower limb biomechanics, and a consultation with our dietician / nutritionist for advice on weight loss or nutrition for competitive sports people.

We aim for a tailor-made programme to suit each individual to correct and overcome any problem which comes to light as a result of the MoT. Where, how long, and how much? It’s currently available at ES Physical Health’s clinic in Harley Street,and will soon also be available at their practice in Camberwell. It takes
just over an hour, and costs £150. ES Physical Health is at 22 Harley Street London. T: + 44(0)20 7907 1900.

Nanoceuticals – the latest science attacks wrinkles, cellulite and ageing hair

Nanoceuticals are the latest and most potent new anti-ageing treatments for skin, body and hair. They use nanoparticles – particles that are 100,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair – to deliver highly concentrated ingredients beneath the skin with greater affect.

The small size of these particles changes their qualities making them super-absorbable. So even though many of the ingredients are not necessarily new and already found in dietary supplements and creams such as Vitamin C Ester, Vitamin E, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl L-Carnitine, Co Enzyme Q10, DMAE (dimethyaminoethanol) and Idebendone, a man-made substance which claims to be the most powerful anti-oxidant in existence – their effect on the skin is far more potent.

Their increased effectiveness means that many women are avoiding cosmetic surgery in their 40s and opting for preventative and restorative treatments. The success of these new creams is their ability to work at a cellular level, making them more efficient at preventing and repairing the damage caused by free radicals, the unstable molecules, that ravage cells and cause age-related damage through pollution, smoking, sunbathing, poor diet, alcohol and stress.

The secret of keeping your skin at its best whatever your age is two take a two-pronged approach by using these topical creams and lotions to prevent damage and combining this with a diet containing a high-level of antioxidents both from food and supplements.

Both L’Oreal and Estee Lauder have already launched high end mass market products that incorporate this technology. One of the most exciting products recently launched on the UK market is a new product for hair called Tanagra, which was developed in Brazil and reverses damage caused by age and misuse. It uses nanotechnology to impregnate the hair shaft with nanoparticles of keratin, which is lost from damaged or ageing hair. The keratin is “locked” into the hair shaft by a heat process. The end result is an amazing head of shiny hair, even for blondes, which lasts for several months.

These are some of the latest treatments to arrive on the market:

Leorex

This range of products contains a patented ingredient called Nano-Silica which lifts wrinkles by a non-chemical, purely physical process. After application there is both a short-term and long-term effect on lines. The nano-particles form on and below the skin, supporting the collagen and encouraging new collagen growth. The particles also scavenge the damaging free radicals in the skin and prevent new wrinkles from developing. There are a number of products in this range but the most potent is Leorex Hypallergenic Wrinkles Nano-Relief, which costs £75. The full starter kit costs £140. Available by mail order and selected salons 08700 117563 (from the UK)

Dr Denese Instant Wrinkle Press

Another top notch product from Dr Denese of New York which tightens wrinkles within minutes of application with a freezing affect. It also helps minimize dark undereye circles with “nanopeptides” and is applied under all other creams and over them throughout the day if necessary. It contains Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3 as well as Gamma Amino Butyric Acid which is the ‘exclusive inhibitor peptide factor’ Instant Wrinkle Press costs £44.95 for 15ml and is available from Dr Denese on 0870 1900 003 or online at www.drdenese.co.uk

Tanagra – for shiny, glossy hair repair

This one-hour treatment uses nanomolecular keratin particles so small that you could fit millions onto a pinhead.The keratin is misted into the hair shaft then the nanomolecules are locked into the hair with another mist. The result is beautiful, soft and silky hair with an incredible shine. Up to three treatments may be needed each one increasing the amount of keratin in the hair and top up treatments every few months are recommended. It works on all kinds of hair but the most dramatic results are seen in extremely damaged or porous hair.An added bonus is that colour treated hair stays more vibrant and takes colour better. Costs from £50 per treatment www.tanagra4hair.com

Dermaglow

The Dermaglow Pro-Peptide Instant Wrinkle Eraser is another product that freezes wrinkles instantly and last up to 24 hours. Within minutes a reassuring tightening sensation is accompanied by a 50-90% visible reduction in lines and wrinkles. Created by Canadian Pharmacist Calvin Davies this formulation contains Palmitoyl Oligopeptide which works to regenerate the skins upper layers by stimulating collagen. GABA prevents the nerve endings in the skin from causing lines and wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles. Hyaluronic Acid, the ingredient used in many anti aging injectables, fixes moisture on the skins surface, preserving suppleness, elasticity and tone without the needle. The active ingredients are delivered using nanospheres. Costs £75 0800 328 7612 www.dermaglow.co.uk

Valmont Anti Wrinkle Factor

Made in Switzerland this cream has a lovely smell and texture that the skin loves and becomes immediately radiant and soft on the first application. It is created by Valmont together with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and uses ingredients and delivery systems to plump wrinkles from the inside out. It is made in three “strengths” to combat wrinkles of different ages. Factor1 is preventative and for women in their 30s and costs £119 ; Factor 2 targets the start of sagging for women in their 40s and costs £133 and Factor 3 is aimed at the countering the effects of the menopause in the 50s and costs £147. Key ingredients include Triple DNA, RNA and rice and soy peptides. Available from the Valmont counter in Selfridges, Oxford Street, W1.

Gatineau with nanosphares and collaspheres

This new range is aimed at combination skin where some patches are dry, some oily or a bit of both. The cleanser cleans without stripping and moisturises without greasing, thanks to sebum regulating agents and self-adjusting moisturisers. But the big breakthrough, which is the very latest in enzyme technology, is Gatineau’s Self Regulating Complex of nanospheres and collaspheres. These are tiny molecules containing rebalancing and nourishing ingredients respectively, so ingredients like green tea extract to help reduce shine, while hyaluronic acid moisturises, and vitamins provide healing and have antioxidant powers. The Primrose Gel Make-Up Removercontains hyaluronic acid to recondition and moisturise dry areas. Costs £17 for 250m. The Nasturtium Toner is £17 for 250ml. The Day Emulsion – is an ‘intelligent’ day cream that adjusts itself according to the skin’s needs, is £36.25 for 50ml. The Night Cream has nourishing collaspheres, plus revitalising vitamins A, E and F, for longer-term hydration and is £42.50 for 50m. The Tonimasque Cream Mask is softening and moisturising. Blackheads and impurities are gently drawn out, the complexion is clarified and skin texture evened and toned and £22 for 75ml. Available at selected beauty salons nationwide, QVC The Shopping Channel, on-line at www.thebeautyroom.com and by mail order. For nearest stockist and mail order details, readers should call 0800 731 5805.

SACHY ‘HAPPY SKIN’

From Fake Bake the brand famed for their professional self-tanning products are two new anti-ageing products, a tinted and non-tinted moisturiser which work with peptides. SACHY which means ‘happy skin’ in Japanese, and uses a dual action formula works on the surface of the skin treating wrinkles, helps refine scars, improve stretch marks and treat sun damage. SACHY product can be used under make-up whilst the product with tint (which suits all skin tones) will offer coverage and deliver a smooth and velvety finish to the skin. SACHY can also be used on the arms and legs for a beautiful, vibrant finish. Sachy contains three natural botanical butters Shea, Cocoa and Mango which moisturise whilst it’s natural organic oils, almond and sesame oils nourish and tone. Sweet Almond protein helps firm skin. The blend also uses six powerful anti-oxidants which help kill free radicals that are damaging to the skin: Vitamins A, C, and E plus Phyllanthus Embilica Extract, daisy flower and the most powerful on the market, green tea. SACHY is available from Harvey Nichols £35 for the concentrated wrinkle cream and £75 for the larger tinted version. Call 0870 054 4455 or go to www.fakebake.co.uk

SkinGenuity Body Perfecting Formula

A nano solution for cellulite uses Ethosome particles to deliver the fat busters to target cellulite. In clinical trials this cream visibly reduced the appearance of cellulite by up to 80% within 56 days. The active ingredients includes: Bupleurum chinensis extract to stimulate fat metabolism and remove cellular waste and toxins; Caffeine to stimulate fat metabolism and help reduce skin puffiness; Coenzyme A to activate the breakdown of fatty acids; Grapefruit extract an antioxidant rich in AHAs to promote rapid cell turnover and smoothe the skin; Gingko Biloba extract to stimulate lymphatic drainage, which improves the removal of impuritiesThe non-greasy, cooling gel sinks into the skin immediately without having to massage it in and allows you to get dressed straight away. Costs £89.50 (200ml) is available from by mail order online at www.physonics.com or on 0870 067 3396.

Cindy Crawford confesses to being human

Supermodel Cindy Crawford has confessed that she keeps her looks in pristine condition with the help of aesthetic treatments such as Botox and collagen.

In a magazine interview the 40-year-old mother of two said she has getting cosmetic help for the past 11 years.

“I’m not going to lie to myself: past a certain age, creams work on the texture of your skin but, in order to restore elasticity, all I can really count on is vitamin injections, Botox and collagen,'”she tells this week’s Gala magazine.

“I have a very simple, healthy life, which works miracles. I drink a lot of water, watch what I eat and exercise. ‘But I owe the quality of my skin to my cosmetic surgeon.”

Miss Crawford who has her own skincare range called Meaningful Beauty. Products includes facial mask, skin softening cleaners, moisturisers and neck rejuvenating creams.

She says of her products: ‘I believe Meaningful Beauty is the best skin care available, and soon you will be able to discover the difference yourself. ‘Improve the tone and texture of your skin. Reduce the look of lines and wrinkles.

Reveal skin that is smoother, softer and more radiant. They’re products that treat your skin in a meaningful way now for more beautiful, younger-looking skin tomorrow.’

Regulatory Bodies

Human Genetics Commission – The UK Government’s advisory body on new developments in human genetics and how they impact on individual lives. Gives the Government advice on human genetics with a particular focus on the social, ethical and legal issues. One of its key roles is to promote debate and to listen to what the public and our stakeholders have to say.

The Commission is chaired by Baroness Helena Kennedy QC and is made up of twenty-four members including experts in genetics, ethics, law and consumer affairs. It also has a Consultative Panel of people who have direct experience of living with genetic disorders and who act as a sounding board for reports and recommendations. Human Genetics Commission

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority is the UK’s independent regulator overseeing safe and appropriate practice in fertility treatment and embryo research.

It licences and monitors centres carrying out IVF, donor insemination and human embryo research. We provide a range of detailed information for patients, professionals and Government. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority

GeneWatch UK is a not-for-profit group that monitors developments in genetic technologies from a public interest, environmental protection and animal welfare perspective. GeneWatch believes people should have a voice in whether or how these technologies are used and campaigns for safeguards for people, animals and the environment. It works on all aspects of genetic technologies – from GM crops and foods to genetic testing of humans. GeneWatchUK

The BioIndustry Association , the trade association for innovative enterprises in the UK’s bioscience sector. As the voice of UK bioscience, it is active in representing the sector and its needs to audiences, from patient groups to regional, national and pan-European governments. The BioIndustry Association

Body cells younger than our years, say Swedish researchers

Parts of the body regenerate in days and others in years. This means that our bodies are younger than our birth certificate, according to Swedish scientists who have used carbon dating to make their findings.

Our bodies are weeks, years and even decades younger than our chronological age because cells and tissue regenerate, they say in a report in the New Scientist magazine.

The technique uses levels of a radioactive form of carbon called carbon-14 to gauge the age of objects.

Usually accurate only to between 30 and 100 years, carbon-14 dating has been refined by researchers at Sweden’s prestigious Karolinska Institute to be able to pinpoint the age of parts of the human body.

The team compared levels of the element in the human body with those in the atmosphere when nuclear weapons testing was at its height 50 years ago.

Factoring the length of time it takes carbon-14 to decay allowed them to accurately date various body parts.

They found the hardest-working cells had the shortest life, with some wearing out and being replaced within days.

Eyelashes and eyebrows are renewed in eight weeks, tastebuds every 10 days.

The lining of the gut has a lifespan of just five days, but muscles are much older – those of someone in their late 30s have an average of 15.1 years.

Professor Jonas Fisen has also been able to age some brain cells, revealing that those in the cerebellum, which co-ordinates movement, are about three years younger than we are.

Anti-ageing specialist Joe Kosterich said as we got older, our ability to regenerate became less efficient.

Dr Kosterich said: “It’s like taking a copy of a copy. Enzymes that work on our DNA become less effective as we age so you start to replace pristine healthy cells with ones not quite as good. The whole ageing process is very likely linked to the breakdown of restorative and repairing mechanisms in the body.”

The Swedish research suggests – if averaged out, someone in their late 30s would have a body just 15 1/2 years old.

They hope the research will help shed light on degenerative conditions linked to cell death, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Dr Kosterich said in the meantime, the best defence against ageing and to promote healthy cell regeneration was exercise and anti-oxidants.

“Although exercise actually causes the body to regenerate and repair more, it keeps our regenerative system ticking over so you are making a better copy of yourself, so to speak,” he said.

Dr Kosterich said the enzymes which assisted the regeneration of tissue and cells were adversely affected by toxins and anti-oxidants could help promote healthy tissue repair.

“In this case, it’s exercise first, anti-oxidants second, but you also have to live a healthy lifestyle with a good diet and weight maintenance,” he said.

Different body parts age at varying rates.These figures show the average age of the body parts of someone in their late 30s

Cerebellum 2.9 years

Eyelashes 2 months

Tastebuds 10 days

Bones 10 years

Surface of skin 2 weeks

Rib muscles 15.1 years

Gut 15.9 years

Gut lining 5 days

Red blood cells 4 months