Alternatives to Botox Treatments

Reverse the Effects of Aging without Compromising your Health

Recently, I was asked to write an article giving the reader alternative treatments to botox. Thinking through this challenge, I realize that there are no alternatives to botox. Botox is a toxic substance obtained from a deadly bacteria called Clostridium Botulinum. I am not aware of any other toxin that the FDA has approved for injecting into the facial tissue to paralyze muscles.

As I write these words, I cannot help but question the approval of such a substance simply for cosmetic purposes. But, it is not my place to find the answer to "why the FDA approved this repulsive substance to reduce the signs of natural aging?" Instead, my purpose for writing this article is to provide the reader with valuable information about what their skin needs to be healthy and radiant as they enjoy the privilege of aging.

Aging is a precious gift that is meant to be enjoyed and welcomed with each new day on this beautiful Earth. With age comes increased wisdom and integrity. But, let's face it the aging body also begins to deteriorate if not cared for properly. Many of us have become brilliant caretakers of our bodies internally, but all to often, fail to realize that what we put on our skin can effect the internal functioning of our bodies, as well as the appearance of the skin.

The skin is an incredible complex organ of the human body. It needs to be cared for and nourished in order to look its best.

Like the rest of the human body, the skin needs a daily diet of balanced nutrition to stay healthy and vibrant. For internal consumption, this diet consists of the following vital nutrients:

• Antioxidants for fight off free radicals that can lead to disease and cellular destruction
• Protein for healthy tissue development
• Essential fatty acids for building and maintaining cellular integrity
• Vitamins and minerals to support bodily functions
• Water, water, water!

These same components should be in your skin care regimen. The difficult part is determining what ingredients in skin care products actually contain these vital nutrients and then, finding products that contain these ingredients.

What I like to see in skin care products is the ingredients clearly displayed on the jar or bottle so that when shopping I can pick up a container and read what I am getting. The other thing to look for is ingredients that have some familiarity to you. For example, you know that avocado oil is rich in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids so when you see avocado oil in an ingredient list, it makes sense that this is a good hydrating as well as nutritional product for the skin. Ingredients that you cannot pronounce should be questioned. They are most likely fillers, formaldehyde or some form of petro-chemicals, all of which you do not want on your skin.

By beginning a simple regimen of providing nutritional products to the skin daily, you will see a remarkable difference in the tone and texture of your skin. Excessive wrinkling and discoloration are often caused by malnutrition and dehydration and will be less visible when maintaining a steady regimen of skin care products that contain the vital nutrients listed above. Wrinkles become softer when hydrated. Color and tone improves with repeated applications of antioxidants.

One of nature's most complete antioxidant sources is "seabuckthorn". This remarkable berry contains vitamins A, C and E encased in a fatty acid base perfectly suitable for complete penetration into the skin. Look for products that contain seabuckthorn, rosehip, avocado, jojoba, wheatgerm and calendula.

Shopping for skin care products can be confusing but keep in mind the simple comparisons to shopping for food. Look for NUTRITION... not miracles!

May you live a long, healthy life filled with peace and joy!

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