Are Nano Creams Safe

anoparticles, which are 80 times thinner than a human hair, are used by firms including Boots, The Body Shop, Avon, Nivea and Unilever, especially for UV filters in sunscreens.

Some manufacturers believe the technology can deliver the benefits of products in a more effective way.



But critics say the size of the particles may allow them to permeate protective barriers in the body, such as those surrounding the brain or a developing baby in the womb.

Their scale also changes the way they interact with other cells, which might lead to unforeseen toxic effects.

Following a report which raised concerns that some firms are not declaring their use of nanoparticles, Which? has called for the technology to be banned unless it is proved to be safe.

Its concerns have been backed by Professor Dame Ann Dowling, of the Royal Society, the UK's independent science academy.

She has condemned the beauty industry for failing to provide information on safety testing and use of the controversial ingredients.

Research by Which? found that 87 per cent of customers are unaware that the technology is in use.

The consumer group wrote to 67 cosmetics companies asking them about their use of nanotechnology, the benefits they thought it brought and how they ensured product safety.

Only 17 responded - and only eight were willing to provide information about their use of nanotechnology or particles.

Meanwhile, scientists surveyed by the consumer group expressed concerns about the use of carbon fullerenes, which appear in a number of anti-ageing creams.

Nanoparticles are also used to make sunscreens transparent on the skin. But although firms say they offer greater protection against the sun, EU experts have asked for more safety tests to investigate their effect on sunburnt skin.

Which? said: "Our experts raised particular concerns about potential toxicity of fullerenes if they were able to penetrate the skin. They were also concerned about the widespread use of nano titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in sunscreens, when further research still needs to be done on their safety in nano form."

Some beauty firms are also using nano silver, which has anti-bacterial properties, in products such as toothpaste. But Which? says there are fears it may be toxic.

Sue Davies, of Which?, said: "The cosmetics industry needs to stop burying its head in the sand and come clean about how it is using nanotechnology.

"The Government must introduce a compulsory reporting scheme for manufactured nanomaterials so we are all aware - and only those that are independently assessed as safe should be allowed to be used in cosmetics."

Large-Volume Liposuction Deemed Safe

Liposuction that removes large amounts of body fat can be a safe option for managing obesity in select patients, a new study suggests.

Traditionally, liposuction was used for so-called body contouring — removing small pockets of excess fat to reshape a person's figure. But in more recent years, as liposuction techniques have advanced, the procedure has also been used to remove large amounts of fat in obese patients.

Studies have suggested that such "large-volume" liposuction can be safely done in healthy, carefully selected patients.

These latest findings, from a study of 60 healthy obese women, add to evidence that large-volume liposuction is effective, and relatively low-risk.

None of the patients suffered a major complication from the procedure, according to Dr. Youseff Saleh and colleagues at Assiut University Hospital in Egypt.

Minor complications included skin irregularities in 20 percent of the patients, and seromas — a buildup of fluid in areas where fat had been removed — in 15 percent, the researchers report in the International Archives of Medicine.

After four months, the women had lost about 30 pounds, on average, and also showed some of the benefits that come with weight loss, including lower blood pressure and blood sugar.

The findings, according to Saleh and his colleagues, show that large-volume liposuction "can be safely performed" and produce positive changes in a person's body shape and health.

The procedure is not right for all overweight adults, however.

In general, experts recommend that people consider it only if they are in good health both physically and mentally, and are willing to make long-term diet and lifestyle changes. They should also choose a surgeon experienced in large-volume liposuction, and have the procedure at a hospital or surgery facility equipped to deal with any complications that could occur

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Clinique Rejuvenation

What's New / Clinique Rejuvenation
San Diego Gets a Makover


It seems yet another forgettable med-spa has been popping up on every other corner lately, but Clinique Rejuvenation is different. With treatments that encompass the face, neck and body, this new full-body wellness spa promises to become a guilty pleasure, but without the worry wrinkles. Clinique Rejuvenation’s innovative concept is unique to San Diego, with a seasoned staff comprised of UC San Diego’s plastic surgery department and an array of procedures performed in-house to ensure clients get the best care possible and enjoy the utmost comfort. Say sayonara to botched Botox fears and hello to this aesthetic surgery center that combines wellness with med-spa services. In addition to anti-aging procedures, guests can enjoy massages and facials that include a VISIA® treatment that gives a three-dimensional analysis of the skin. To add to its bag of tricks, Clinique Rejuvenation offers acupuncture and holistic techniques such as natural supplements to use pre- and post-op, ensuring the absolute best care inside and out. To guarantee each visit is a tranquil experience, the spa encourages de-stressing by covering every ounce of the space with scented candles and plush chaise lounges, creating the ultimate resort-like ambiance sans the snot-nosed kids and Hawaiian shirts. The professionals at Clinique Rejuvenation have truly set the bar for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a little pampering in the new year. Make sure to check out their monthly guest speakers and online discounts.




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Stylish Hair Trends

Helena Faccenda, the go-to hair gal for Heidi Klum, dishes the exclusive tips to keep hair under control when temps are down.

1. Wear a hat.

“It’s not only stylish, but also keeps your head and ears warm from the cold air.”

2. For a ‘do to match this season’s structure fashion, Faccenda has the perfect sleek bun to complement the style.

“Use a high shine gel and disperse the product all over the outer coat of your hair. Using a brush with extremely soft bristles, gently brush the outer coasting of your hair in an upward direction, creating the perfect sleek bun or ponytail on top of your head.”

3. For soft waves, spray damp to dry hair with a volumizing spray.

Faccenda then says to flip your hair upside down, make three sections of your hair and braid each section up, starting at the nape of your neck. “Once the braids are completed, fasten them together into a bun that sits on top of our head. In the morning simply take out the braids and you’re left with super volume and beautiful waves.”

4. Faccenda also recommends making the cut.

“The rich, heavier fabrics and fashions of winter, like turtlenecks and scarves, lend themselves to short hair.”