Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Successful New Years Resolutions Continued.

 

So far, you've made your list of goals and you've analyzed what triggers you have for habits you want to get rid of and those you want to start.  What do you need to do next to make it possible for you to meet your New Years Goals.

In order to meet your goals, you have to make it personal.  When analyzing your goals you want to start, set an easy cue and an obvious reward.  If it is a brand new habit, you might consider working your way into it.  For instance, you might want to start walking every day so for the first week, you just get into your walking clothes with shoes but you don't leave the house.  During the second week, get dressed in your walking outfit and then walk around the block. The following week, add a bit of distance so you feel as if you are making progress towards your goal.  On the other hand, the reward needs to be an obvious reward to your body feels as if it wants to do this.  The goal might be a long leisurely shower, a small piece of chocolate, or just the pride you accomplished it.  To monitor this last one, write down how proud you are in a journal. 

Furthermore, the plan should take into account that for any hurdles that come up.  You might want to walk everyday but sometimes you can't due to things like blizzards, tornadoes, or your trip to town took longer than expected.  If you don't make it that day, don't berate yourself.  Instead, think about starting again the next day.  In other words, forgive yourself for messing up and know you can start on the path the next day.  In addition, have a plan in place for times such as this.  It is especially helpful because people get frustrated when they perceive a lack of progress.

So it is suggested, people use the small numbers game to help them reach their goal.  For instance, you are running five miles that day but you need a bit of a boost to make it.  Change the way you think.  Rather than thinking that you've done one mile and have four to do, think of it as having run one mile and if you do one more, you'll have doubled the distance traveled.  The first is considered a negative thought, the second positive. In other words, rather than looking at the whole distance you have to go, look at what you've already accomplished.

Another thing to know is that thinking positively may not help us meet our goals because when we think positively, we often picture our success and daydream about it but that can stop us from reaching our actual goals.  Instead, we need to think positively but realistically.  It is suggested we think about what we wish which is what we want, what is the outcome or what do we want our lives to look like when we get there, what will stop us from reaching the goal or what sidelines us, and how do we get around it.  

The best way is to set up a plan with built in flexibility.  So instead of saying I will go to the gym every morning at 5:30 am, you might change the last part of I will go to the gym every day so if you can't get there at 5:30, you and still go during the day and still be successful. Community support also helps keep you on track but it might be with friends, via social media friends or online support groups or give a relative money such as $100 to hold for you until you reach your goal. There are ways, especially during the time of COVID.  

Finally, if you get off track, don't give up for the year, instead, start reaching for the goal again.  After all, the goals do not have to be tied to New Years, they can be tied with the next Sunday or Monday.  There are no rules that say, you can't start again as needed. In addition be kind to yourself. Instead of calling yourself stupid names and designating yourself as a failure, tell yourself, you can.  Look at what happened, admit it, and then ask yourself what can you do to get back to it.  We are human so we will trip up.

Spin the negative into a positive and keep moving.  Never give up.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.



Monday, December 27, 2021

It's That Time Again for New Years Resolutions.

 

It's that time of year again, when we sit down and create a list of goals for 2020.  It is so easy to go overboard on that list.  For instance, deciding to go to the gym but we decide on going everyday for 2 hours instead of looking at what we can easily accomplish.  I've seen people show up at the gym beginning January 2nd and they are there so much but by March, they've burned themselves out.  

I am one of those who always puts exercise on my resolution list because its the way to help me stay on course but this year I've been slack about exercising.  It has to do with both my parents passing four months apart.  That left me kind of depressed but I need to exercise to help me stay fit and in a better mind.  

So what types of resolutions are the best to choose so we are able to stick with things the whole year long because people are unable to keep over half their resolutions. The best resolutions are those that are doable and mean something to you.  For me these are exercising and trying for a healthier diet but others have resolutions that meet their desires and needs more. 

According to one study, most people manage to carry out their resolutions to the end of January before they give up. This is often because the resolution is based on what society or someone else thinks it should be rather than individual need. Another reason for failure is that the resolution is way too vague or there is no plan in place to make sure the resolution is carried out. 

The resolution needs to be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound.  When you come up with a resolution, it has to be laid out.  If the resolution is that you want to lose weight, it is not specific enough but if you say you want to lose 10 pounds over the next three months, that is and you'll have a better chance of making it.  This type of resolution is measurable but not all are as easy to measure such as you want to eat healthier.  This is measurable but it requires a food journal where you list everything you eat so you know you are meeting the resolution.  Or if you want to stop biting your nails, you might want to take pictures over time to show that is happening.

Each successful resolution needs to be achievable so rather than making it too large such as wanting to pay off your house in 10 years instead of 30, you might change it to paying an extra $150 per month so you shorten the length of your loan.  So when you look at your resolutions, you need to determine if it is something you can do or if you are setting yourself up for failure.

In addition, the resolution must be relevant to you because it matters to you.  If you decide you want to go to Florida next summer because all your friends have made that goal and you don't like Florida, you are less likely to reach the goal. On the other hand, if you would rather see a show in New York City, then that should be your goal.  It is understood that some goals are harder to accomplish during the time of COVID but you can still have your goals and you never know.  Things are changing all the time.

Finally, all resolutions need to have a time scale to go with them.  This means rather than focusing on one final goal of say losing 30 pounds next year, you might decide concentrate on losing 2.5 pounds every month as this is more achievable and easier to make because the goal is set up in timed increments.  

Once you've written your list of resolutions, you need to have determined the ways you can use to get there. If you are trying to begin a new habit or get rid of old habits, you need to break the habit into three parts: the cue, the routine, and the reward.  The cue is what signals you to do it such as you get bored so you want to eat.  The routine is what you do such as going to the refrigerator, the reward is no longer feeling bored.  This is a bad habit you want to change so when you get bored, you know you want to eat so rather than going to the fridge you might change the routine to taking a nice walk outside so you feel better.

Check back Wednesday for the second half of learning what it takes to be successful with your New Years resolutions.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.

Friday, December 24, 2021

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

The Different Types Of Mascara

The other day, I needed to pick up some mascara.  I usually buy one type because I like it to add a bit of color and thickness but not too much.  As I stood there, I looked at so many different types and decided I would check out the different types.  

Before we look at the different types of mascara, we'll look at how they come.  It is possible to find a powder mascara which is dry and you add a few drops of water to it so you can use a wand to apply it to your lashes.  There is creme mascara which can smudge thus requires a special applicator. Finally is the liquid mascara which is the most common form and easily found.  I'm looking at six different types of liquid mascara today.

First is the lash lengthening mascara which is designed to extend your natural lashes.  This type of mascara contains polymers made up of nylon and rayon which bind to the tips of a persons eyelashes.  The wand has dense bristles so that the mascara covers the lashes thickly. To get the best results one should use two coats so your lashes look their best.

Second is the thickening or volumizing mascara which adds volume to your lashes, especially thin or sparse lashes, so you don't look like you are wearing fake eyelashes. This type of mascara contains waxes, silicone polymers, and pigments designed to make lashes look darker and fuller. A good way to apply this type of mascara is to move the wand side to side at the base of the lashes before sweeping upwards if you want fullness all the way up.  Otherwise, just apply it to the base.

Third is the curling mascara which helps curl your eyelashes so your eyes look bigger.  The mascara has a thicker consistency and contains filming polymers that tend to contract after they are applied to the lashes. This mascara allows the eyelashes shrink and curl. The curved line of the mascara wand helps the polymers curl the lashes.

Fourth is the waterproof and smudgeproof mascara. One important thing about waterproof mascara is that it does not be reapplied throughout the day because it is designed to be used once.  Waterproof mascara contains wax-oil, mineral oils, and waxes which keep the mascara from interacting with liquid so it doesn't run and stays on the lashes. Unfortunately, waterproof mascara can dry out your lashes so don't use it all the time. When you are ready to remove the mascara, you need to take a cotton pad and add a good makeup remover that is safe to use around the eyes.  Hold the pad on your eyes to give the liquid a chance to breakdown the ingredients of the mascara before gently wiping it away.

Fifth is the non-clumping mascara which is the one that gives the most natural look while adding definition to the lashes. This mascara contains glycerin and silk extracts to keep it from clumping. The wand has long bristles that help apply the mascara evenly across your lashes but do not provide as much volume or length as the other types.  This is the type to wear if you want a more natural look.

Sixth is the lash defining mascara which provides both volume and thickness to your lashes because it spreads evenly across the lashes. This type of mascara has strong pigments for color, filmifying polymers for thickness, and rayon or nylon fibers for added length. 

So with this knowledge, one can find the mascara that is best suited to make your eyelashes look their best.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.

Monday, December 20, 2021

Addicted To Exercise?

 

I've known people who always seem to be exercising.  One of my neighbors would walk outside for 2 to 3 hours no matter the weather and then ride a stationary bike for another couple of hours.  I asked her if she was a bit overboard on exercising and she said no but I often wondered if she was addicted to exercise.

It is possible to exercise too much and be addicted to it. Exercise addition is defined as having an unhealthy obsession with physical fitness and exercise.  In fact, people addicted to exercise often are obsessed with certain things including exercising and are unwilling to stop so they continue doing it in secret.

Part of the issue is that when you exercise, your body releases certain chemicals which make a person feel good and is perceived as creating a sense of reward or pleasure. Often the person addicted to exercise depend on the pleasure they derive from the release of these chemicals. Many people who are addicted to exercise may also suffer from body dysmorphia, have an eating disorder, or are addicted to losing weight. 

When you exercise, your body actually release endorphins and dopamine which are also released during drug use.  So when they exercise, they experience the pleasure or reward these chemicals cause but when they quit exercising, the feeling  goes away and to keep experiencing the pleasure, they have to start exercising again.

It often starts due to wanting to be more fit, loose a significant amount of weight or perceiving oneself as being larger than in reality.  Often people who feel under pressure to stay in shape, or have an eating disorder or suffer from body dysmorphia are at risk of becoming addicted to exercise. It is thought that many people who are addicted to exercise fall into one of two categories.  The first group may also be addicted to cigarettes, alcohol, or illegal drugs but for the other group, may be addicted to sex or shopping.  In some cases it appears that recovering addicts may use exercise to fill the void left when they no longer suffer from past addictions.

The symptoms of exercise addition include feeling really up and buzzed at the end of a session, suffer from withdrawal symptoms if one does not exercise for long periods of time, have an uncontrollable need to workout, reduce or stop doing other things to find more time to exercise, spend long periods of time both preparing for and recovering from exercise and being unable to stick with a reduced exercise routine. 

Unfortunately, it is extremely difficult to diagnose because there is no simple check list to use to diagnose it and it is not yet fully recognized by the medical community but it does exist. There are seven things to look for if you think you are in a situation where your exercising is controlling you.

First, you are always exercising to work off the calories from the meals you ate or you need to workout to eliminate your fat stomach, you too big thighs or other body part you do not like.  Second, you are always at the gym spending three or four hours there every day.  You know the people at the gym better than you know your neighbors or coworkers.

Third, you are working out so much that you are always tired. This is because you are spending so much time working out and not enough time on yourself and it leads to becoming sick or hurt.  Fourth, you are always changing plans so you can spend more time working out. In addition, you schedule everything around your workout times so you don't miss any of your workout.

Fifth, You have a workout schedule you rigidly adhere to so even if the weather is bad out, or you are sick, you insist on heading out to the gym to work.  Your main goal for working out is to burn calories or lose weight rather than staying in shape for your health. You go through feelings of fear, anxiety, or stress in regard to your body if you can't get out to exercise. Finally, you experience guilt if you have to skip even one exercise session or you have to finish early.

Sixth, the results you experience are decreasing even if you add in more exercise. This can lead to irritability, loss of sleep and appetite. Seventh and lastly, you end up with an unrealistic view of your body or a poor body image. 

If you are concerned you might be addicted to exercise, there are things you can do.  One is to keep a workout journal where you list the days you work, the type and amount of exercise you do, how you feel and how you feel when you are not exercising. You can use this information to help you ease up.  There is a possibility of needing professional help to get over the exercise addiction and this information can help.

Remember, taking a walk every day does not mean you have an exercise addiction but if you walk for 3 hours and then do two aerobics classes for another two hours everyday, you must might.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.

Friday, December 17, 2021

Exercises You Should Avoid.

 

There are exercises that you might have grown up doing or someone tells you are the best thing but which are no longer recommended.  When I took P.E. in school, they always told us to stretch first but now, they tell you to warm up a bit before you stretch so you don't do any damage.

Today, I'm going to talk about exercises personal trainers tell you to avoid as part of your routine.  Many of these exercises are not that effective while others cause damage.

1. The dumbbell side bends.  This exercise is often used by people to make their waists smaller while tightening love handles.  Unfortunately, the exercise does very little because it does not engage your obliques and it involves too much twisting of the spine and too much lateral bending.

2. The superman which you do on your stomach.  It has you lift your upper body and legs off the ground and is supposed to target the lower back.  The exercise actually forces your lower back to over extend again and again so you can cause more back pain.

3. The behind the neck presses.  This exercise is when you bring the weighted bar down behind your neck and then raise it up.  It is supposed to to strengthen your shoulders, upper back, and triceps but it is not very effective because it can put a strain on your neck and shoulder muscles.

4. Barbell jump squats. This is done when you want to tone your gluten and legs but when doing this exercise, you might use too much weight, thus putting too much pressure on your back and joints.  

5.  Leg extension machines. Unfortunately, the leg extension machine is not designed to correct form or target specific muscle groups.  The problem with this machine is that it applies tension to the anterior curciate ligament or ACL which could cause the knee cap to slide right or left.  In addition, it places the maximum amount of force on the back of the knee cap which is the thinnest portion of cartilage is located. 

6.  The Smith machine.  This machine is used by people to help them do a variety of exercises using barbells such as a dead lift or  back squat.  The problem is that the machine has a fixed bar path which means the user must move with the machine rather than using their own natural movement. It can over load your the joints thus possibly leading to injury.

7. Crunches.  These can be effective but not if they are done incorrectly and many people feel that quantity is better than quality. Consequently, they do a lot of low quality crunches and it does not produce the results they want. 

8. Bicep curl machine.  Although many people use this machine, the problem is that the machine does not allow people to do the full range of movement they are able to do with free weights. In addition, there can be problems with form and posture. 

If you are doing any of these, you might think about looking for alternative exercises to decrease your chance of sustaining injury.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear. Have a great day.


Wednesday, December 15, 2021

The Ideal Amount Of Exercise ?

Many people go after certain types of exercise because they prefer them rather than making sure it is mixes up.  I love walking but I know I need to throw in strength training and a good aerobic workout but I don't always manage it.  So what type of workout schedule is considered ideal?  it is composed of several different exercises because there is no single exercise that does it all. Furthermore, the exercise plan should be balanced so all recommendations are met.  

Basically the recommendation is 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of intense aerobic exercise per week.  Intense aerobic might be some of those ones like the PBX and others while moderate might be a normal aerobics workout.  These can be broken up and spread across the week such as 30 mins five days a week or 75 minutes twice a week for moderate or 25 minute three times a week.  It is based on you and your schedule. 

Aerobic exercise is going to make your heart and lungs work harder, so you are burning calories while burning fat off and helping your heart.  Think of taking a good long walk, ride a bike, take a nice run around the neighborhood, or head to the swimming pool.  If none of those appeal to you, think about taking a dance class, Zumba, or other activity but what ever you choose, aim for at least 15 minutes for each session.  

They also recommend that you work in two or more strength training sessions each week but it is important to have a break of at least 48 hours between the sessions so your muscles have a chance to recover. Strength training usually involves a machine, free weights, or bands and helps prevent bone loss while building muscles.  This is an extremely important part of your exercise routine because we start loosing strength as we age and we want to make sure we stay strong.  

Although they say one set of exercises is effective, they say you should actually do two to three  repetitions of the exercise to get the best results. When you begin your strength training, work on your form rather than the amount of weight so you get the best results. If you are just starting out you can do it with a small can in each hand if you don't have a light weight. Think about shifting out strength or resistance exercises so you might do weights one day, kettle ball another, and possibly the resistance band for the third day.  You don't want to get used to the same exercise day after day.

Finally, throw in some balance exercises,  30 minutes long, one to two days a week.  This is because our sense of balance tends to decline as we age so we need to practice balancing.  It could be via yoga, tai chi, or pilates.  If your balance isn't that good, look for a class that allows you to hold on to a chair or bar to help you. As you get better at balance, you won't need to use a chair.  If you have time, add in a couple of flexibility exercises to help keep your muscles stretched.  

If you do not have access to classes or are not ready to return, you can pick up a couple of weights, several different DVD's so you can have a complete workout at home.  If you prefer, search Youtube.com for videos for each component so  you have a balanced workout.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  have a great day. 

Last thing,  I'd like to apologize for this column not being published this past Monday when it should have been but I ended up with some significant internet issues so it didn't happen. It's always good the coffee shop has free internet. I should be back to normal I hope but who knows.  

Saturday, December 11, 2021

Friday, December 10, 2021

Eyelash Extensions

 

Up until recently, I'd never heard of eyelash extensions.  I've heard of hair extensions but I never knew they'd come up with one for eyelashes.  Eyelash extensions are a way of ending up with awesome eyelashes without undergoing eyelash transplants, lash lifts, or using tons of mascara everyday. 

Eyelash extensions are the application of semi permanent eyelashes made out of lightweight synthetic lashes, faux mink, real mink or silk that are applied lash by lash to your own lashes. The process uses a semi-permanent glue that was specially formulated so it sticks but does not irritate or damage the natural lashes.  In addition, the individual lashes are directly attached to the lashes themselves.

When done, your lashes should be more full, be longer, and are lifted so they look great even without mascara. The number of lashes applied to the natural eyelash determines the final look.  The more lashes applied, the thicker and more dramatic the final look.   The average person has between 80 and 140 lashes applied to each eye and the lashes are between 6 and 18 mm long because different lengths must be used to create the best look. For a thicker look, more than one lash can be applied to each natural lash.  Furthermore, when you use extensions, you can customize the look so you get the effect you crave. 

When you go in to get lash extensions, you'll choose the length, the amount of curl, and the number of lashes for each cluster.  It is recommended that you get lashes that are 3 to 5 mm longer than your natural length and you have to decide on the thickness of each lash but you have to balance thickness with weight.  You'll also have to select the amount of curl ranging from natural to quite curly or lifted. The final thing is number of lashes so do you want one lash applied to one lash or a fan of three lashes to one lash.  

As far as the time commitment, it takes between one and two hours lying down so the lashes can be applied.   Lashes cost between $100 and $600 but be aware they last about six weeks but it is recommended you go in every two or three weeks to have the sparse areas filled in.  If you want the lashes to last longer, it is important to use a lash conditioner.

Once the extensions are installed, it is important to avoid water to give the glue holding the lashes in place, a chance to fully dry.  It is also recommended that you do not curl them with a mechanical curler because it can cause the lashes to break. Or use mascara because the mascara can be difficult to remove and in the process of removing the mascara, the lashes might be damaged.  If you have to use mascara, use one that is easy to remove. In addition, do not use oil based products or cleansers because you want to give your lashes a chance to stick properly.

If you are concerned that using extensions might hurt your eyelashes, the answer is no they do not but damage can occur if they are not properly installed, or if the wrong type of lash is used. For instance, if too many lashes are applied, they will shed sooner or if you rub your eyes, you'll cause eyelash breakage. Furthermore, change your sleeping position to your side and use a silk or satin pillowcase since cotton can tug at your lashes when they catch.

Finally, if you decide to go this way, make sure you find an experienced technician who is certified and possibly liscensed depending on the requirements of your state.  You want someone who knows what they are doing, can make recommendations for the right combination of factors for your eyelash extensions and who will advise you properly on aftercare.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.


Wednesday, December 8, 2021

What Is A Lash Lift?

 

On Monday, I discussed eye lash transplants which are quite expensive, and a possibility if you want something more permanent but it's not the only way to improve your eye lashes. Some women have lashes that are so awesome, especially when mascara is applied but others need a bit extra help even after the mascara is put on. 

One way to improve your eye lashes is by using a lash lift because lashes normally grow out rather than up which makes the lashes look better when they point upwards. Basically a lash lift is actually perming your lashes by lifting them while curling lashes for a better look. The lash lift goes from the bottom or root area up to the ends so their length is more noticeable. The process uses a lifting solution and a tiny curling rod to lift the eye lashes. 

There are two types of lash lifts you might have done.  The first is like a regular perm and the other is used a keratin solution for healthier results.  Now if you get the traditional lash lift done, you'll begin by having a consultation with the licensed professional to determine the eye of of lash style you want because that determines the size and shape of the curling rod. Then the area around the eyelashes are cleaned and the lashes are placed around a silicon rod and attached with adhesive so they stick while you lie on a bed with your eyes closed.

When everything is just right, a lifting  lotion is applied to the lashes which encourages the lashes to mold themselves to the rod. The process is finished when a setting lotion is applied which sets the final shape of the lashes.  The whole process takes between 45 and 60 minutes.  Many salons require people to have a patch test done two days before the appointment to make sure there is no possibility of a reaction.

On the other hand, the keratin method is almost the same.  The eyes are closed and silicon pads are placed on the eye lid.  The lashes are lifted so a serum that breaks down the protein in the eyelashes just before the lashes are molded to the pads.  Then a keratin based setting solution is applied which begins to restore and condition the lashes.  The lashes are tinted at this point before the lashes are removed from the shields and the lashes are coated in pure keratin as the last step. 

Either way, it is recommended you avoid having water, makeup, or anything else touch your eye lashes for the first day or using mascara for the first 48 hours after the process is completed so the curl remains.  In addition, lashes should look great for four to six weeks depending on how fast your lashes grow.  It is recommended women use a lash oil on the lashes to nourish them. Furthermore, they should not use waterproof mascara because it dries the lashes out which can lead to broken eye lashes. 

This process cannot be done if the lashes are shorter than 4mm long.  It is recommended women tint their lashes when they get the lash lift so that your lashes are darker and you look like you just woke up. The cost is between $100 and $175 so its not bad. Come Friday, I'll discuss eyelash extensions so you have knowledge of the three choices for lashes.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a good day.



Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Monday, December 6, 2021

Transplanting Eyelashes

After researching how they fill out eyebrows by transplanting hairs, I wondered if the same thing existed for eyelashes.  Some of us need all the help we can get to have really awesome lashes and this might be a more permanent solution rather than having to rely on mascara.  Well, one can transplant hair to fill out eyelashes but it's important to know all the positives and negatives so you have full information on the topic.

This procedure works much like the eyebrow transplant in that hair is taken from one area of the body and move to the eyelash area. Specifically hair is taken from the back of the head, and after the doctor numbs the area, individual hairs are inserted one by one.  Although many use it to look better, it is great for folks who suffered burns and complications from tattooing. 

Eyelash transplants are technically a type of hair transplant just like eyebrow and hair transplants. In general the results should last the rest of your life but they do have to be maintained and even trimmed since the transplanted lashes may continue growing just like regular hair.

The pros of eyelash transplants is that the lashes are that they are long lasting and it is real hair but on the other hand, this process can cost between $2,500 and $6,000 for the 2 to 4 hour procedure, and it is generally not covered by insurance.  In addition, it can take a while to see the results and the success rate is only moderate. There can be pain and bleeding and there is the possibility of infection or cornea irritation. 

Once surgery is over, you will experience some swelling and bruising in the eyelid area for several days. The hairs and crusts will fall out in 5 to 8 days after surgery but over the next 4 to 6 months, new lashes will grow in, making the lashes look fuller and nicer. Since it takes a while for the results to be visible, wait about a year to judge the results.

Furthermore, this requires more downtime than other options and you have to wait for the lash area to heal and the hair to grow. If you are pretty healthy and there are no underlying medical conditions, you are considered a good candidate for an eyelash transplant. It is important to talk with a doctor before committing to the process.  It is extremely important to go to a board certified plastic surgeon who does eyelash transplants if you want to go this route. 

Now, if you are not interested in getting eyelashes transplanted, there are other procedures which can be used.  One if a lash lift and the other is to get eyelash extensions.  I'll be talking about both procedures in more detail over the rest of the week.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.

Sunday, December 5, 2021

Saturday, December 4, 2021

Friday, December 3, 2021

Eyebrow Transplants

 

I heard that someone in the public eye ended up getting some feedback on getting hair transplanted into their eyebrows.  I'd never heard of such a thing but if you stop to think about it, it makes sense since many men are getting hair transplanted to their heads.  

Remember, eyebrows help frame your eyes and your face.  They also divert moisture such as sweat and droplets of water from your eyes.  No matter, everyone wants to have a nice pair of eyebrows. 

There are several factors that contribute to the type of eyebrow you have.  Genetics does polar a role in whether you have thick or thin eyebrows but certain medicines, injuries, medical conditions, and excessive use of vitamins can cause you to lose hair from your eyebrows. 

One way people make it appear as if they have thicker eyebrows is with the use of cosmetics but some go so far as to get plugs of hair transplanted to fill in their eyebrows. Physically, the surgeon takes plugs of hair including the roots from the nape of your neck or behind your ears and surgically places them in your eyebrows.  

The surgeon removes the hair and places it in a saline bath before they are replanted. This procedure is usually done under local anesthetic so you don't feel anything.  Once the surgeon has completed the process, the area is left open so a crust can form around the follicles. In addition, there will be some bruising and swelling but after a few days, the crust falls off and the swelling goes down.

Then the hair that was transplanted falls out but new hair should begin emerging around the three month mark but if this doesn't happen because the graphs didn't take, you can try again at around nine months but it depends on the judgement call of the doctor.

The people who are most likely to consider an eyebrow transplant are those who suffer from burned eyebrows, scarring, tumors, a disease that causes their hair to fall out or those who pull it out, an under active thyroid or someone who has consumed too much Vitamin A.  

There are some possible side effects you need to be aware of should you want this procedure.  First of all, some of the plugs may not take so there will be patchy areas in the eyebrow.  In addition, the alignment might be off due to where the plugs are placed during surgery and the individual hairs could end up growing in different directions if the plugs are not carefully lined up.  Other risks include additional bleeding, scarring, infections, bruising, and significant swelling.

The best results occur during the first two to three years and then the hairs can start falling out and you might need to have more plugs put in. The cost of this procedure ranges between $3,000 and $8,000 depending on where you live, if you are covered by insurance, and other factors but in general your health insurance will not pay for it unless it is deemed a medical necessity. If you decide this is for you, check around, talk to those who do it, ask for recommendations, and avoid cut-rate clinics since their work may be subpar.

I know I'm not interested in this type of thing since I like my eyebrows but I know there are people who may choose to undergo such a procedure.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.


Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Changing Views On Losing Weight.

 

Since there is new research on how the metabolism really doesn't slow in the same way we had thought in the past, we have to look at the process of losing weight differently. It has been observed that people often are able to lose weight but they are unable to keep it off and end up gaining most or all of it back. This losing and gaining back has been referred to as the "yo-yo effect". 

In fact, research indicates that about 90 percent of the people who lose weight through dieting, paid programs, or through some sort of gastric surgery end up gaining it all back.  Many scientists believe this happens because of the way our metabolism works. 

When you go on a diet, your metabolism begins dropping since you are consuming fewer calories because your body burns calories at a slower pace but then it changes and you end up gaining the weight. Unfortunately, they don't exactly know the precise process that causes people to regain the weight but there is a new study starting to follow people who are losing weight.  They'll look at everything from energy expenditure, and changes in blood, brain, and muscles psychology in the hopes that they figure out what causes people to regain the lost weight. This study is expected to take three to four years.

The results will give scientists a better idea if the metabolism stays low during the dieting time but as time passes, the diet triggers some sort of inherent biological mechanism that makes us eat more and our weight goes up.  Or is it that we return to previous bad habits, and caving into social and cultural factors that encourage us to eat more.

At this point, scientists claim that if it is a biological mechanism then people have to figure out ways to prevent weight gain in the first place but if it is bad habits or social or cultural factors, it might be better for people to see psychologists to help modify their habits or other factors so they don't give in to these. But how do the results of the latest study in which they've concluded that metabolism is fairly steady from 20 to 60 effect weight loss views?

Well, the current thought arising from the conclusions of this study is that there are other things such as genetics, hormone changes, stress,  sleep and diet effecting weight especially during middle age. It is suggested that a diet of highly processed foods is one of the major culprits responsible for weight gain. In addition, there is more food available to us everyday than we had available evolutionarily and the highly processed food is designed to be over eaten.

Although there are all sorts of articles out there that tell you how to improve your metabolism using different things including exercise, there is evidence that exercise does not improve your metabolism.  Several studies that compare the amount of calories burned by hunters who walk on average 19,000 steps a day and the average American or European and both groups burn the same number of calories.

There is a group of scientists who believe that the body is designed to keep its expenditure of calories within a certain range each day but the body burns the same number of calories each day however, it adjusts how it uses the calories to meet the lifestyle. One other thing is that scientists have yet to discover what is responsible for the individual variations in metabolism.  

The new research produces some interesting new areas for investigation and we are learning more and more how the old thinking needs to change.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.