When you are getting larger, you are within the realm of company. Because of the lifestyles we live, many more people eat the foods that are holding more calories. The days of the active person are slipping away and the television is taking up the hours and providing a place for more food to be eaten. The bad habits of eating, the stress of the everyday life, the missing ability to exercise, is all the problems that are leading to the extra weight that a lot of us now have. Only when the lifestyle is changed for the better is it to become a healthier life and giving you the ability to be more physical, mental and emotional in your strength.
Now, more find that the way to stop the problems with their weight is within the yoga realm. It is not an easy task for anyone to change habits that have been practiced for years. This is especially true when you are talking about the food you eat including the change to the vegetarian way of life and the exercises that come within the yoga practice. The yoga is a way for you to burn the fat you have and speed up your metabolism. Be prepared to take your time when loosing weight with yoga because it is healthier for you. You will be glad that you took the time to loose slowly because for the benefits to you and the skin having time to shrink on its own back into the right place.
Using yoga to loose weight has a few different poses including the Asanas. They can be used for a part of the body that you choose to work on. Below are some of the Asanas that you can use.
1. Asana for a tight stomach – use of the child’s pose, wind releasing pose, abdominal lift, cobra pose, spinal twist, yogic seal pose, naval move position (lying on back), and baat pose are all a part of this asana. For more info see http://www.ezyogaguide.com/Yoga_Certification_Videos/ on Yoga Certification Videos.
2. Asana for the limbs – use of the upward dog pose, and the downward facing dog, tree pose, swinging lotus pose, hero pose, upward facing and downward facing bridge pose, squat and rise pose, and celibacy pose all help with the limbs.
3. Asanas for making the chest tighter include the baat pose, triangle pose, and hero pose, wind releasing pose, cobra pose, spinal twist, lumbar wheel pose, upward facing dog, and the downward facing dog.
4. Asana for the firming of the hips and the thighs incorporate the triangle pose, sun salute, angle pose, butterfly pose, celibacy pose, hero pose I and II, advanced wind releasing pose, and upward facing dog pose, and downward facing dog.
Yoga for loosing the weight you want to a great thing to tone your body and dong it in a regular way, which is not in any way like to other weight loss routines that say they will get rid of the inches and cause you bad effects from it. Loosing weight with yoga can be done by anyone of any age group to keep the body healthy.

Copyright (c) 2008 Rob Pilger

CB: How do boxers burn fat so fast, what lessons can the regular person take from their training that works quickly?

RP: I know this point is redundantly made but it’s true.

People spend to much time training with cardio equipment. I have seen people train on cardio equipment, and their body’s still look the same months later!

When the average person has had enough of walking around in their body they are in they usually think of hitting the pavement running. Or people will train with the typical circuit of elliptical and treadmills etc…Training for long and very casual intensities. Raising cortisol levels, preserving fat, etc…

People who perform a boxing workout get lean from the intense anaerobic way they train. Boxers fight and train in rounds lasting from 2 minutes to 3 minutes in duration. The training done for that duration is generally at a higher intensity. The training equipment also demands you get lean by the way the bags have to be worked.

Put it this way to maximally work and move the heavy bag in the right manner burns more calories and takes more effort to do. Your body then takes the lean shape from the aftermath of this demand of it to put forth the work. Same thing for the punch mitts when used correctly your whole body is moving and working and in a more anaerobic and intense manner than aerobic training.

Many times people who cross train or want to learn boxing for self defense are amazed at how sore they are in different areas of their body from the workout. They are waking and working muscles that have been dormant for some time in a intense manner.

As I’ve stated several times above since boxing workouts are predominantly anaerobic and we train with lots of intervals, our metabolic rates are increased.

Unlike the aerobic way people train where they only burn calories for the duration of the aerobic activity or training. With anaerobic interval work your metabolic rate is increased for hours even after training is complete as you obviously know.

CB: What’s the role of slow cardio in stripping fat from a boxer’s body?

RP: Not much at all….

We condition using sprints, sled work, sledge strikes, sprint and run drills, but really speaking from a fighters perspective, nothing beats intense sparring to get in shape. We also perform intervals of fast punching on the bags and punch mitts.

As far as the average client, I’ll never forget when I was working in Syracuse NY I was training an older guy named Tom. Tom couldn’t lose any more weight in a satisfying way. He was on a plateau.

He was training aerobically only for the last 2 years playing musical chairs with the cardio equipment. He was very frustrated and bored that he couldn’t drop any more fat.

So upon working with him. I had him jumping rope, working the punch mitts, working the heavy bag and VERY easily he lost 14 pounds in 6 weeks! Not bad for previously being on a plateau! The pounds literally melted off. Because of the intense anaerobic way he trained and the muscles and movements he was using in training this way.

Fortunately for me communicating with the best strength and conditioning coaches and constantly reading and studying the best books keeps me abreast of what methods work best.

CB: How do you and other boxers get lean for fights in terms of nutrition?

RP: We start cleaning house!

Or should I say cleaning the fridge, freezer and cupboards. I have them get rid of the processed boxed, package, frozen packaged, canned foods. I have them stop eating sugary cereals, soda, sugary juices, white breads, refined carbs, margarine, just garbage food period! This goes along way with improving performance, vitality, and weight loss obviously.

I then have them start to eat real whole foods. Foods that actually have a life source and will deliver nutrients and vitality to them.

So for weight loss having them eliminate the garbage foods and drinks and having them eating smaller meals frequently throughout the day works big time for weight loss on top of the kick butt training their doing.

It still amazes me on how many people skip breakfast. Or if they do have it, the typical sugar water called orange juice with a pop tart doesn’t do it. I have them eat a better breakfast and make sure their dinner isn’t the biggest meal of the day as their stomachs would suggest if it is.

My point is, typically people skip breakfast, eat a rather large lunch, and when they get home have a feast for dinner. That’s insane if you want to drop weight and get lean!

Don’t eat less meals. Eat more meals frequently with less food for weight loss. Their blood sugar levels are more balanced and their moods and energy levels are far more enhanced by eating more frequently, like 5-6 times per day if possible.

I also have them drink half their body weight in ounces of water per day. I have them consume fish oils at their meals.

I also keep critiquing their eating habits and food choices for weight loss as needed…

CB: Do you use boxer’s training techniques in your client’s workouts? If so, what could I do to speed my fat loss?

RP: Boxing workouts are BIG in my clients workouts.

It’s no wonder that the most popular classes in commercial gyms are martial arts classes.

Unfortunately many of those are watered down. By getting your eating habits under control and cleaned up and by jumping rope, shadow boxing, working the punch mitts, heavy bag, double end bag and speed bag you literally melt that fat off your body in a quick manner.

That’s why I like to use boxing training techniques. Boxing training gets results.

People can get bored with the cardio equipment. You can be totally uncoordinated and not improve upon before or after getting on the bike or stair master.

Not when you jump rope and perform the rest of a boxing workout. That’s why it delivers so much in one workout. All those bio-motor abilities you improve on top of shredding the fat from your body.

CB: What methods of strength training do you prefer? Do you use free weights or a lot of body weight exercises?

RP: Strength training methods will depend on the persons training age, background, weaknesses, needs, goals, and were we are from a fight.

So I have a lot of tools in the tool box I can use depending on the above scenarios. Usually I begin with body weight movements. I totally agree with what Alwyn Cosgrove says, “If we cannot stabilize and move our own body weight, we have no reason to use external resistance”

Once a person can handle there own body weight we use different strength exercises. I like using squats, I really like front squats cause we can train the legs with the thoracic extensors that are usually weak. A boxer that has been at it for a while will will have an increased kyphotic posture along with pronated shoulders. So we need to correct this if we want to improve performance.

We also use dead-lifts, single leg work, posterior chain work, core strengthen with more transverse plain exercises, but we also perform reverse crunches they are a great abdominal strengthening exercise that also help in improving posture.

A lot of unilateral work, pulls, rows, chins, pull ups, you name.

We use equipment ranging from db’s, barbells, med balls, sand bags, kegs, sled, sledge hammer, I’m going to start using kettle bells more. Once again, these are all great tools we use depending on the situation.

Corrective exercises are used to keep the fighters muscle imbalances and posture in check.

I will say that generally fighters are bloody weak! So I like to improve and focus on maximal strength training. Hypertrophy training can be used if I have a fighter that wants to move up a weight class or needs a little more muscle.

For our dynamic training, I like to used med balls and other plyometric exercise for explosive power.

That pretty much sums it up as our training is ALWAYS evolving and improving as I continue to study and learn and as we progress in our own training.

CB: Do the boxing workouts require any special equipment?

RP: Yes the workout uses special equipment that is very affordable and can be purchased at sporting stores, or boxing equipment magazines.

You will need hand wraps, a jump rope, gloves, punch mitts, a heavy bag, double end bag, speed bag and a small timer that you can by at any store. You don’t have to get all the bags at once you can still burn allot of fat with the jump rope and heavy bag alone. The other equipment just really speeds the results.

Over the Counter DrugsQ: I’ve tried a million over the counter products for acne and they work for a while and then they stop. I’ve tried oil-free cleansers, gels, cover-ups, and makeup – all of which claim they help acne-prone skin. But they’re not; what am I doing wrong?A: You’re not doing anything wrong except wasting your money. The products you’re buying don’t work. Even though they are labeled oil-free, they really aren’t oil-free. All products with the exception of water are oil-based. Just like in the foods you eat, there are good oils and bad oils. The products that you have been using are full of bad oils and are producing new acne, not helping it. Over the counter eye shadows and lipsticks are fine, but when it comes to make-up and cleansers, the stuff you’ve been buying just isn’t helping.Q: What about all the acne soaps and astringents I use? I wash and scrub my face constantly, but I still break out. Why?A: You can scrub all you want but it won’t make a difference. Acne forms inside your hair follicles, which are below the surface. The same thing goes for drying-out your skin with alcohol or astringents. All this does is clean the top layer of your skin, but it doesn’t go inside the clogged hair follicles to clean them out. It’s important to realize that your pimples are forming beneath the top layers of your skin and that over the counter products can’t help you there. The Acne Treatment Clinic offers topical medications, which go deep into the clogged hair follicles to clean them out and prevent new pimples from forming. Whether you suffer from severe acne or occasional breakouts, our products work quickly giving you positive results.Q: I’ve tried just about everything for my skin. What do you put in your products that makethem so different?A: It’s not what we put in them, it’s what we don’t put in them. Our products are formulated without adding oils to interfere with their effectiveness. The Acne Treatment Clinic has a safe, effective, and inexpensive skin care program that works. There are no side effects, no sun-sensitivity, no pills, and no gimmicks. Q: I’m very skeptical about new products, especially since everything I’ve used up till now hasn’t worked. What is your success rate? How long have you been in business and most of all, do you have any idea how I feel!?A: I know these products work because I suffered from acne for 25 years. It destroyed my self-confidence, made me feel unattractive and was just plain ruining my life! After graduating from the University of California at Berkeley, I did some research, hired a chemist, and opened the Acne Treatment Clinic. We have been in Northern California for over ten years and have successfully treated over 5,000 men and women of all ages. When many of our graduating high school seniors went off to college, we started sending their products to them by mail. Word spread on campuses all across the state and country and soon we opened our mail order division. Now with the Internet, we are able to send our products all over the world. I must have the most rewarding job in the world, because I know exactly how it feels to have acne and know exactly how great it is to clear it up!Q: Do all your clients use the same products?A: No. Everyone’s skin is different. That’s why the Acne Treatment Clinic offers a variety of products, all formulated for specific skin types and problems. Many factors determine your treatment, which is customized for you. That’s why we ask you to please fill out the questionnaire on the How to Order page so we can personally help you.Q: Are chocolate and greasy foods really bad for my skin?A: No! How could anyone live without chocolate or French fries?FoodQ: Is there a connection between what I eat and my acne?A: Yes, it helps to eat a well balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals with plenty of water. This is paramount to having a healthy body and a good complexion. Splurging on bad food once in awhile is no big thing, as long as you eat well most of the time. However, some people have that backwards. The stress you put on your body if you mistreat it by not eating right, smoking, doing drugs, over-doing the alcohol or caffeine is enough to aggravate even the most mild acne case.Prescription DrugsQ: Why don’t antibiotics work for acne?A: Antibiotics work for getting rid of an infection, like strep throat. When it comes to treating acne, all topical and oral drugs are doing is temporarily killing the bacteria, which eventually become resistant to the antibiotic. A common practice is to prescribe the topical ointment, Retin-A® in conjunction with antibiotics. Unfortunately, many people experience redness and irritation, which actually cause more pimples and blackheads to form. Because Retin-A® and antibiotics make your skin very sun-sensitive they are not practical for many acne sufferers. Another drug often prescribed for acne is Accutane®. This is just a temporary solution to your acne, but it’s not a long term and safe alternative to controlling your breakouts. And if not helping acne isn’t enough, some antibiotic also reduces the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Check with your doctor.Q: What should I expect to see after using your products for a couple of months?A:You will definitely look better. Your pimples will be smaller, go away faster, and you should have fewer of them. Our products will prevent new pimples from forming and will reduce the swelling and irritation on your skin from your breakouts. We stand behind our products, and if for any reason you are not happy with them we will refund your money. They get to the root of the problem and work. At the Acne Treatment Clinic our products are specially formulated for problem skin. That’s all we do – is treat your type of skin. We are specialists in acne and only acne.SunQ: If the sun is so damaging to my skin, then why does it seem to clear up my acne?A: It’s not helping clear up your acne at all. The “tan” look is just a temporary coloring that appears to hide your pimples. But when the tan goes away, the zits stay. Worse yet, the sun tans your scars darker and sets you up for a whole new crop of pimples! Sun damages your skin and that’s all there is to it.True, you might look better and feel better with a tan, but what you’re doing is creating new pimples for three or four months down the road – that’s how long it takes for a pimple to form. It’s not a fluke that your skin looks worse in October when your summer time tan catches up with you. That’s why it is important to wear one of our specially formulated sunscreens to help prevent future breakouts.Q: I try to remember and wear sunscreen, but every time I wear it my skin breaks out worse. What’s the story?A: Good sunscreen is good, but bad sunscreen is bad. If you’re wearing acne-aggravating sunscreen, then you’re not helping the situation. Most of the over the counter sunscreens you’ve probably been using are loaded with oils which clog your skin. This produces acne. The Acne Treatment Clinic only has non-acne aggravating sunscreens, that not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays, but don’t cause acne.Remember that a sunscreen is JUST that: screen. You need to apply your sunscreen at least a half-hour before sun exposure and re-apply it at least every two hours to receive the maximum protection. Also, it never hurts to wear a wide-brimmed hat or sit under a tree. Acne or not, the sun harms your skin.Men OnlyQ: I work out and sweat a lot. I always have pimples on my back but rarely on my face. How can I avoid them altogether?A:Sweat aggravates acne, however, there are a few things you can do to minimize your breakouts. First of all, avoid sport drinks at all costs! Most sport drinks contain high amounts of iodine, which has been shown to flare-up pimples when excreted through the skin in the form of sweat. Drinking lots of water during exercise helps minimize this problem. Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing during your workout because believe it or not, friction makes pimples bigger. Last, but not the least, you must try to shower at least 1/2 hour after exercise using one of our cleansers for acne prone areas.Q: After working out and showering, it feels like the soap didn’t cut the oil and sweat on my skin – especially on my back. Any suggestions?A: The Acne Treatment Clinic’s medicated cleansers are perfect for the job. They are adequate for both the face and body and thoroughly clean your skin without leaving behind any slimy residue. Best of all, they’re not very expensive, last a long time, lather-up great, and really work.Q:My skin seems to break out only where I shave.Why, and what can I do to stop this?A: If you are using a double-edged razor, then STOP! Double-edged blades cut the hair beneath the surface and cause trauma and subsequent breakouts. Try using a single-edged razor and shave in the direction of your hair growth. Also, you need to stop using your current shaving cream because it’s probably aggravating your skin. We’ve seen the best results when men switch to one of our foaming facial cleansers and use it as their shaving cream. Never put cologne or aftershave on areas where you frequently break out because these products contain oils which will aggravate your acne. It is also advisable to use topical medications on a daily basis to prevent future breakouts as well. The products we sell at the Acne Treatment Clinic can be worn during the day so you are treating your acne around the clock without anybody knowing it but you.Q: I’m 34 years old, have 2 kids, 1 house, 1.3 dogs and 800 zits! I was always looking forward to trading in my pimples for wrinkles, but it’s starting to look like I’ll be stuck with both. Why?A: Acne is a genetic skin problem and aging won’t get you out of this one. While it’s true that the older you get the flare-ups usually become less severe, they’re still unwanted and often embarrassing. Most acne sufferers go between times of flare-ups and clear skin their whole lives. Fortunately, the Acne Treatment Clinic has a safe, long-term treatment for controlling your acne. Sorry, we can’t do anything about controlling your kids!WomenQ: Can anyone tell when I’m wearing your products?A:No. All our products, with the exception of the masks, are invisible on your skin. We don’t expect you to stop your life so you can go home and treat your pimples.Q: Why do I always break out about a week before my period? My pimples are large and hurt and seem to be located around my mouth and chin. Also, sometimes they pop up on my neck.A: Hormones, hormones, and hormones. It is very common to breakout along the lower half of your face and neck because of hormones. Regular periods and regular break-outs go hand in hand, however, if you’re having irregular periods, the imbalance of hormones could make your skin worse. Also, where acne is concerned, some birth control pills are less acne aggravating than others. The good news is that you can effectively control most premenstrual breakouts using Acne Treatment Clinic products. Diligent use of the topical medications 30 days every month, insures your skin stays clear every day of the month — even when you have your period. Stress and EmotionsQ: When I’m stressed or burned out, my acne gets worse.What does one thing have to do with the other?A: Whether it’s from relationship problems, an unbalanced diet, lack of sleep, your job, or school pressures, stress aggravates acne. You may be able to control some stress, but unfortunately stress is a part of life. That’s why it’s important to have a skin care program that’s easy to use and helps to fight off stress-induced pimples.Acne Treatment Clinic products are specially formulated to prevent pimples. So whether you’re stressed out or not, you are able to successfully control breakouts using our daily treatment plan.Sleeping 8 hours a night, eating a well balanced diet, regular exercise and drinking plenty of water can immediately help reduce your stress level.Getting close is simply out of the question when you feel bad about your skin.We’ve all been there – we’re too embarrassed by our skin to want to leave the house – let alone have someone touch it. Now there is a way to control your breakouts so your breakouts don’t control you. The Acne Treatment Clinic was founded to help you get your confidence and your life back.Nobody should feel bad about their skin and we are here to help you, regardless of your age, gender, or national origin. We offer a safe, affordable, long term solution for controlling your breakouts. And because we know the emotional roller coaster you’ve been on for years trying to find a solution, our products are fully guaranteed. For over 15 years we have successfully treated thousands and thousands of acne sufferers just like you.

The lower belly are is one of the biggest trouble spots for millions of men and women. It just seems that whatever you do, it’s impossible to get rid of that stubborn layer of flab. Well, I tell you that it’s very possible to burn lower belly fat. All it takes is the right nutrition and the right kind of exercises.

So, what kind of exercises burn lower stomach fat?

There are 2 kind of exercises you need to do:

1. Lower stomach toning exercises – These don’t burn too much fat but they tone the lower abs so they look firmer. These exercises include the following:

2. Total body fat burning workouts – You need to understand one thing if you’re ever going to burn your lower belly fat: You can’t burn off fat from a specific body part. That’s why all those lower belly exercises can tone the area but can’t burn off the fat there. They are still important but they can’t get rid of that bulge of lower stomach fat that you want to eliminate.

There are a number of things you can do, but basically it boils down to 2 kinds of exercises:

1. High intensity cardio – When I mean high intensity, the elliptical or gym bikes aren’t it. I mean running, rowing, jumping rope, alternate stair jumping, and so on. Things that really get the heart pumping and the body shedding calories and fat.

2. Multi-jointed strength exercises – These are exercises which operate a large range of motion and work on more than a single muscle group. These are exercises like squats, lunges, shoulder thrusts, push-ups, pull-ups, chin-ups, chest flies, and so on. While these exercises don’t work the lower body area, they make the body lose a lot of calories which also translates to an increased lower tummy fat burn rate.

Doing these kinds of workouts along with a sound nutritional routine is the way to burn lower belly fat. 

By Carl “J.C.” Pantejo, Copyright May 2008

Author “My Friend Yu – The Prosperity Mentor,” Copyright August 2007. Pantejo – Y.N. Vurce Publishing.

*The following story is incorporated in “My Friend Yu – the Prosperity Mentor: Book II,” Pantejo – Y.N. Vurce Publishing. Release Date: 2008.

“[Life] Amazing! Isn’t it?…”

- Medical Turf Wars -

“So, am I gon’na live?”

“Chief, I don’t know how you guys do it. I took a double-take on your birthday ‘cause your “biological” age and your “chronological” age just don’t match! What kind of veggies or vitamins are you taking? I haven’t seen a 28” waist since High School! I still lift (weights) regularly and am an amateur bodybuilder. What’s your bodyfat percentage?” He said.

Trying to get on his good side, I said, “I don’t know. Four months ago, the Aviation Medical Technician doing the prelims for one of my physical exams said it was ‘too low to be healthy’, I think. Whatever that means?”

He was the DMO (Diving Medical Officer), a lieutenant (Officer Grade 3 in the Navy), and in his mid-thirties (my age at the time). He was already beginning to bald, and slightly paunchy. He still had the big arms and barrel chest of a Navy Diver, but probably hadn’t seen a six-pack on his body for years.

“So, what’s your secret? My wife would go totally ga-ga if I could get my college body back.”

I didn’t want to tell him that the simple answer was to get rid of his wife. Single men tended to be more “hungry” and had less extraneous obligations.

And it took a very understanding spouse to put up with the lifestyle of “an athlete in uniform.” The hours of training were just too long for even the most loving wife.

I knew. I was on my second wife and the marriage’s prognosis looked very bleak.

Grinning at the doctor I said, “Amazing, isn’t it? I attribute my girlish figure to celibacy and pure thoughts.”

(In reality, I PT’d [physically trained] for at least 3 hours a day, ate like a pig all day, then drank beer and chased women at night.)

The rest of the time I wasted on frivolous things (like work).

We both laughed.

Then I asked, “Sir, when can I leave?”

“If it was up to me, I’d let you go now. But as you know, you need to be cleared by the ‘other guys’ too,” the DMO said.

“I can’t be medically disqualified right now. I got some important orders,” I desperately whined.

The truth was that I was to do some “exchange student” exercises with a few of my counterparts from foreign military units (e.g., Republic of Korea, British, Australian, and Thailand teams) in the next few weeks.

“Cobra Gold” was the official name of the annual joint military exercises held on and around the Pattaya Beach area of Thailand.

I looked forward to this yearly “Work Hard, Play Hard” event.

I especially loved the beautiful women. They’re always amazed that: 1) I am American, not Thai (I’m a mix of everything Asian) and 2) in spite of being “gaa” (Thai: old), like a Tantric Sex Master, I can go on for hours in the bedroom.

Similar to Jack LaLane on his birthday (who?), I added more “degrees of difficulty” (meaning, participants) to my personal exploits every year.

“Chill out. I’m sure you’ll be discharged in time to go to Cobra Gold. Jeez! I love that place! Anyway, I’ve arranged for my most responsible Corpsman to keep you company. Just don’t corrupt her too much” he said, smiling like the devil.

These “Medical Turf Wars” were a hassle for people like me.

Instead of periodic physical examinations by one doctor, I had to be cleared by several different doctors (e.g., Med/Specwar guy, Diving Doc, Flight Surgeon, PTSD Psychiatrist, etc.).

This meant having at least three, instead of one, rectal exam every year!

I never got used to that.

One year, after getting past the point of being pissed off, I invited all the nurses to witness my rectal exams.

Since all Military Hospitals double as learning institutions, there was never a shortage of an audience (mostly interns, new Corpsman, and fresh Nursing school graduates).

Laying prone on the examination table and my bare ass in the air, I proclaimed to the giggling group of students, “Have your way with me. My ass is your ass!”

The responses (and phone numbers afterwards) were well worth it.

But when I saw who was going to be my companion during her Duty Day, I didn’t mind that I’d be here (on a Submarine Tender Medical Ward) overnight.

“Thanks Doc!” I shouted as the DMO bade his farewell.

- Those Medical Slackers -

Looking down at the cute Filipina Corpsman at the foot of my bed, I asked, “Are you sure you want to hear this?”

“Yes, of course. I’ve read about it, but I’ve never met anyone who has actually experienced it,” she said, momentarily breaking her gaze away from my powerful erection to smile a little, naughty smile.

Did she just lick her lips?

Then, silently, she stood up, walked to the “wrong” side of the patient bed, reached across my body, and checked the I.V. bag and drip chamber hanging on a metal hook on the other side of the bed.

“Accidentally” smothering me with her chest, she whispered, “Oops. Sorry.”

“No problem, no problem at all, HN (Hospitalman, E-3 paygrade) Marisol.”

During my short stay in her Sickbay/Ward, we had already established a close, informal rapport. I teased her by addressing her by the appropriate military title “HN,” but then finished it with the totally inappropriate, overly friendly use of her first name (Marisol) instead of her last name.

I could usually tell when to cross the line or not.

Medical personnel (officer and enlisted alike) were notorious for employing lax military standards and sloppy decorum.

Line Officers called them “Slackers, referring to their apparent lack of military bearing. I couldn’t blame them (the medical personnel). In fact, initially, when I first joined the service, I was just like them.

You see, most military medical personnel were just biding their time, simply repaying the military back for their medical training. After one hitch (tour of duty), they usually left active duty to pursue a more lucrative, civilian medical career. This applied to the majority of doctors, nurses, and Corpsmen within all branches of the U.S. Military Services (Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps).

The U.S. Marine Corps had no indigenous medical personnel. That was why I, a Navy Independent Duty Corpsman, was technically a sailor, but, for all practical purposes, was a Marine at heart. Except for my mandatory stints at Navy Hospitals and “Tin Cans” (small ships), I spent the bulk of my career deployed with Marines (specifically, the Diver/Jumper types).

I spent equal time honing my technical skills AND my Marine (grunt) skills. Consequently, I had little time to gather dust. If I wasn’t doing the required CME (Continuous Medical Education – emergency medical training), I was busy diving, jumping, or shooting.

Since I love those activities, the years zoomed by. Before I knew it, over two decades had past and it was time to retire. Mainstreaming into regular, civilian life was hard for me. (But that’s another story).

Back to this story.

Almost sadistically, I prayed for missions because they had an immediate and direct focus (no trivial, unrealistic training and classes by some civilian geek or hospital administrator with no clue about real life operations).

Ninety-percent of any mission was spent on prep time (warning orders, mission briefs, physical examinations, immunizations, equipment checks, etc), travel time (ship, submarine, or airplane); and, once the mission was completely executed, aborted while in progress, or cancelled before going operational, there was the required extensive de-brief time and after action reports.

- My Angel of Mercy Revisited -

Turning my attention back to the sexy Corpsman, I said, “Hell, I’m just glad to have company!”

I had a big sh*t-eating grin on my face; mainly because I was not talking directly to her face, but to the uniform-bursting breasts that were currently dancing in front of my nose.

She blushed again.

With a half-smile, she resumed her position at the end of my bed –fixing her eyes on my blatant hard-on and continued her “Watch.”

“Imagine That…”

Marisol propped her elbows at the foot of my bed and held her face in her hands. The posture instantly conjured up “peek-a-boo, hide-n-sneek” breast fantasies in my head (both of them)!

In any other situation I would have initiated “full-body, hand-to-butt/bust CQB (close quarters combat),” but held back to examine my angel of mercy, visually savoring her youthful beauty and tight, yet buxom, body.

After looking at her full lips and angel face, I wondered if she liked big popsickles?

Then I continued my story about the first time I suffered from “Priapism,” an uncontrolled erection that often becomes a medical emergency…

…Okay, there I was, wildly falling through the air. My main parachute had malfunctioned and all my attempts to correct it proved futile. I was losing altitude by the second and now it was time to use the last resort: the reserve parachute.

The reserve chute was considered the last resort for a couple of reasons. First, it was much smaller than the main chute; and secondly, the reserve chute for this particular Army Infantry configuration was worn on the stomach. It was called “the belly pack,” because the rest of the soldier’s gear was worn below the main parachute pack on the soldier’s back. Located at the small of the back and extending down past the buttocks, this additional gear worn under the main chute was called the “butt pack.”

In this way, supposedly, the soldier was somewhat balanced in the weight distribution of his gear. Nevertheless, especially with a deployed (opened) butt pack (and its accompanied, lanyard connected, extracted gear), the normal, preferred vertical posture was almost impossible to maintain.

I had to jettison the main chute via its harness clips (specialized buckles with a two-step process for separating the shoulder harness straps from the main parachute risers).

The real trick was timing. Ideally, both buckles are to be opened simultaneously.

Bad news for me.

I couldn’t open both buckles together because I was wildly oscillating through the air. The parachute canopy above me looked like a bag of worms, while I felt like the main attraction at a public hanging, dangling by one riser.

This meant that I could only reach one buckle. The other riser was far above the first, tangled amongst shroud lines and the beginning of the canopy skirt.

The furthest buckle had to be opened first. If I opened the nearest buckle, I would have had to wrestle with a taught riser and a buckle buried under tight material. (It would be like trying to get to a coin embedded in a fist full of tight shoelace knots.)

Doing a pull-up and climbing past the exposed buckle, I cut away a mass of shroud-lines with my hooked shroud-line cutter, found the buried buckle, and released. Immediately my body assumed an awkward “hanging by one arm” position. The jolt of repositioning was felt all along the left side of my body. Not much pain (probably due to adrenaline). My left hand, arm, and shoulder felt numb and clumsy. I tried to re-stow my hooked shroud-line cutter, but…but, it was gone! I must have lost my grip on it when the opening shock jolted my body.

“Imagine That…”

Oh well, if I survive this, I guess I’ll have to bribe another Survival Equipment person for another cutter. (I wasn’t the best at sanitizing my actions. I lost or forgot gear often – a bad habit that would severely impact my life later on. Yet again, another story for later consumption).

Bribing a lower ranked Marine in the Survival Equipment shop was much easier than filling out the mountain of paperwork required when reporting missing gear for replacement.

Then I released the second (last) buckle, dramatically accelerated downward, and saw the tangled mess of the main parachute assembly, shroud-lines, and canopy material fly away from me like a bird of prey releasing a mouse that was too small to eat.

I put one arm out and rolled to my back (facing the sky) and assumed a “reverse free-fall position,” that is, instead of the normal free-fall position (face toward the Earth and spread eagle), I now looked more like a dead cockroach.

Ironically, through all this, I smiled while I rolled.

I always loved maneuvering during free-fall. It is intoxicating and called “relative work.” It really feels like you’re swimming through the air. It’s like doing gymnastics in a loud, raging river. For example, if you do a stiff-legged, double leg lift, your body is put into a reverse somersault. If you stick one arm or one leg further away from the body, you rotate in that direction. One birthday I did an ungodly amount of jumps and went to sleep that night exhausted, happy, and dreaming of being Superman.

Supine, I pretended to be a badminton birdy.

And within seconds, my free-fall was controlled.

Reaching to my belly pack (reserve parachute), I found the pull ring, and prepared to pull. In one, symmetrical motion I pulled the ring with one hand and abducted my arm (moved the arm away from my body) while simultaneously mimicking the same motion with the other arm.

It looked like I was doing the top half of a ballet dancer’s pirouette. The reason for this was aerodynamic symmetry. If I didn’t copy the motion of the pulling arm, there was a chance that I may rotate onto my stomach again – not a good thing with a “belly pack” reserve setup.

Experiencing “temporal distortion,” I saw the flaps of the reserve shoot open in s-l-o-w m-o-t-i-o-n. A small drogue chute peeked out of the pack and began to extract the rest of the material. It all seemed surrealistic, like I was sliding face down on a giant synthetic “silk” slide in the sky.

(My mind flashed to the briefing before this jump. Almost as a premonition, I asked the PR [Parachute Rigger] what were the procedures for a malfunctioned reserve chute.

With an evil grin, he said, “Do a Michael Jackson.”

“A what?” I asked.

“Beat it! Beat it! Beat it!” he chuckled.

“Imagine That…”)

Then the wall of moving silk disappeared and all of a sudden shroud-lines pulled taught and slapped me in the face.

In spite of being a smaller chute, the combination of my relatively light Asian frame and no additional weight from Infantry Gear made the reserve parachute’s opening shock turn me into the helpless victim of a T.V. Wrestler. I was getting the infamous “back breaker” maneuver.

Great.

Earlier, the first opening shock of the now defunct main chute made me feel like I was being split in half (from the crotch up); and now the God’s were trying to bend me in half backwards – like I was some chemlight stick that needed to be activated!

Oh well, at least my day was getting a little better.

I was now under a full reserve parachute, swaying like an airlifted cargo crate.

- Pondering my PLF -

The next challenge on my checklist was the task of doing a decent PLF (Parachute Landing Fall). The purpose of the PLF was to distribute the impact of landing across the whole body, therefore; theoretically reducing the chances of injury.

But my experiences over the years showed me that even the most perfect PLF’s can result in sprained ankles, broken legs, shattered clavicles (collar bones), fractured hips, dislocated shoulders, etc.

The Landing Procedures and textbook PLF is as follows:

1.Maneuver (steer) into the wind, so the chute falls behind you. This is easily done during training jumps. One only has to orient himself into the opposite direction of the wind as indicated by a windsock (on land) or a boat’s flag (over water). Just think “stab yourself with the windsock or flag” and you’re going into the wind. But during real missions, one had to use other clues (e.g., whitecaps on waves, swaying branches of trees, etc.).

2.Keep your eyes on the horizon – don’t look down. Looking down makes the jumper incorrectly anticipate ground impact because of the illusion of “ground rush.” It also compromises the vertical posture needed to perform a good PLF.

3.Raise hands over your head, grasp, and hold onto the parachute risers throughout the PLF. This minimizes injuries to the shoulders, arms, and hands by preventing the chance of “flail” injuries – if you’ve ever stubbed your toe, replace your toe with an arm and you know what I mean.

4.Point toes downward and slightly bend the knees.

5.Tuck in the head (chin to chest).

6.Upon impact, immediately allow the body to roll laterally to whichever side that momentum, wind, and terrain moves your body.

7.Spread your impact force over the following parts of the body: balls of feet, calf, side of thigh, buttock, side of back, rear shoulder.

When performed correctly, the body should naturally fall and roll; ending up in a sitting position and opposite your parachute.

But instead of vertical, I was laying backward at a 45-degree angle. The reserve chute attached to my stomach and absence of butt pack weight forced me to keep as upright as possible by continually pulling on my risers.

I felt like I was stuck at “half-rep” on a Lat-Pull Down machine in the gym set with a full stack of weight.

Oh well, the horizon was in full view. I’d just have to make do.

- Ouch, that’s got’ta hurt! -

If you saw the way I landed, you’d probably wince with empathy.

Like fans at an American football game who witness a particularly nasty hit (tackle), you’d probably say that familiar American cliché: “Ouch, that’s got’ta hurt!”

Instead of balls of feet, calves, quads, glutes, lats, delts, and roll; my heels hit first.

Then came the vicious ground impact on my coccyx (butt bone).

The next assault was to the back of my head (Thank God, my Protech helmet didn’t shatter).

I tried to stand, but only made it to my knees. Everything was a spinning, blur. I wasn’t sure if my chute was in front of me or behind me.

My question was promptly answered. It was in front of me.

How did I know?

It re-inflated and began dragging me, head first, along the dirt, grass, and rocks of the drop zone!

Whack! One lens of my goggles breaks. Now one-half of my limited vision looked like a muddy spider web. Afraid of plastic chards going into my eye, I shut both eyes and ripped the goggles off my face.

Whack-whack-whack! The side of my helmet kept bouncing off the uneven ground.

(Another gust of wind.)

I tried to lift my head.

Bad idea.

The wind shifted into second gear and the chute began dragging me faster.

Shroud-lines that had wrapped themselves around my helmet and neck forced my head back down into the rock-strewn earth.

Great, now I’m digging a trench with my face.

“Imagine That…”

(Continued in “Imagine That…[4]”)

Your friend in this Intrepid Journey called Life,

Carl “J.C.” Pantejo

Pantejo@ynvurcepublishing.com

Cobra Gold, Thailand, Sexy, Filipina, PT, physical training, Corpsman, Medical, Turf, tantric sex, parachute, reserve chute, PLF.

Other articles by the author:

“Imagine That…(1) – The Asian Angel of Mercy and Assassins.”

“Imagine That…(2) – Hazardous Duty Incentive Pay HDIP:  Anything for a Buck?”

“Alternative Notions of Life, a Different Path, articles (1) – (7).” (This is an ongoing series of articles that focus on self-improvement, success, and happiness).

“Experiences from ‘The Flow’ series, articles (1) – (23).” (This is another ongoing series of articles about love, romance, Asian/Western relationships, relationship analysis, and more.)

“How Dare She! Out of Desperation I Learned How to Forgive”

“Remember Who You Are!”

“Need to Heal Your Broken Heart? Read on. Overcome Heartbreak and Learn the Illusive Secret of Happiness.”

“Simple (and Priceless) Life Lessons from the Most Influential Prosperity Mentor in My Life – My Father”

And much more!

(By Carl “J.C.” Pantejo and published internet-wide, keyword: [title of article] or “Carl Pantejo”)

Frequently Asked Questions About Acne

Acne is a very common disease. People who have it tend to have similar kinds of questions about it and its treatment. This section addresses some of the common questions asked by people with acne. Please remember that your dermatologist is always the best source of specific information about your individual health issues, including acne.

Questions and Answer does follows:

What causes acne?

The causes of acne are linked to the changes that take place as young people mature from childhood to adolescence (puberty). The hormones that cause physical maturation also cause the sebaceous (oil) glands of the skin to produce more sebum (oil). The hormones with the greatest effect on sebaceous glands are androgens (male hormones), which are present in females as well as males, but in higher amounts in males.

Sebaceous glands are found together with a hair shaft in a unit called a sebaceous follicle. During puberty, the cells of the skin that line the follicle begin to shed more rapidly. In people who develop acne, cells shed and stick together more so than in people who do not develop acne. When cells mix with the increased amount of sebum being produced, they can plug the opening of the follicle. Meanwhile, the sebaceous glands continue to produce sebum, and the follicle swells up with sebum.

In addition, a normal skin bacteria called P. acnes, begins to multiply rapidly in the clogged hair follicle. In the process, these bacteria produce irritating substances that can cause inflammation. Sometimes, the wall of the follicle bursts, spreading inflammation to the surrounding skin. This is the process by which acne lesions, from blackheads to pimples to nodules, are formed.

I wash my face several times a day. Why do I still get acne?

Many people still believe that acne is caused by dirty skin. The truth is, washing alone will not clear up or prevent acne. Washing does, however, help remove excess surface oils and dead skin cells. Many people use all kinds of products, including alcohol-based cleansers, and scrub vigorously, only to irritate the skin further and worsen their acne. Washing the skin twice a day gently with water and a mild soap is usually all that is required. However, acne is actually caused by a variety of biologic factors that are beyond the control of washing. For that reason, you should use appropriate acne treatments for the acne.

Does stress cause acne?

Stress is commonly blamed for the development of acne. Stress can have many physiologic effects on the body, including changes in hormones that may theoretically lead to acne. In some cases the stress may actually be caused by the acne lesions, not the other way around! If the acne is being treated effectively, stress is not likely to have much impact on the majority of people.

I never had acne as a teenager. Why am I now getting acne as an adult?

Usually, acne begins at puberty and is gone by the early 20s. In some cases, acne may persist into adulthood. Such types of acne include severe forms that affect the body as well as the face (which afflict males more than females) and acne associated with the menstrual cycle in women. In other cases, acne may not present itself until adulthood. Such acne is more likely to affect females than males.

There are several reasons for this. As females get older, the pattern of changes in hormones may itself change, disposing sebaceous glands to develop acne. Ovarian cysts and pregnancy may also cause hormonal changes that lead to acne. Some women get acne when they discontinue birth control pills that have been keeping acne at bay. Sometimes young women may wear cosmetics that are comedogenic-that is, they can set up conditions that cause comedones to form.

What role does diet play in acne?

Acne is not caused by food. Following a strict diet will not, clear your skin. While some people feel that their acne is aggravated by certain foods, particularly chocolate, colas, peanuts, shellfish and some fatty foods, there is no scientific evidence that suggests food causes or influences acne. Avoid any foods which seem to worsen your acne and, for your overall health, eat a balanced diet–but diet shouldn’t really matter if the acne is being appropriately treated.

Does the sun help acne?

Many patients feel that sunlight improves their acne lesions and go to great lengths to find sources of ultraviolet light. There is no proven effect of sunlight on acne. In addition, ultraviolet light in sunlight increases the risk of skin cancer and early aging of the skin. It is, therefore, not a recommended technique of acne management, especially since there are many other proven forms of treatment for acne. Moreover, many acne treatments increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light, making the risk of ultraviolet light exposure all the worse.

What is the best way to treat acne?

Everyone’s acne must be treated individually. If you have not gotten good results from the acne products you have tried, consider seeing a dermatologist. Your dermatologist will decide which treatments are best for you. For more information about the types of acne treatments that are available, and for basic acne treatment guidelines, please see Acne Treatments in the main part of AcneNet.

What kind of cosmetics and cleansers can an acne patient use?

Look for “noncomedogenic” cosmetics and toiletries. These products have been formulated so that they will not cause acne.

Some acne medications cause irritation or pronounced dryness particularly during the early weeks of therapy, and some cosmetics and cleansers can actually worsen this effect. The choice of cosmetics and cleansers should be made with your dermatologist or pharmacist.

Heavy foundation makeup should be avoided. Most acne patients should select powder blushes and eye shadow over cream products because they are less irritating and noncomedogenic. Camouflaging techniques can be used effectively by applying a green undercover cosmetic over red acne lesions to promote color blending.

Is it harmful to squeeze my blemishes?

Yes. In general, acne lesions should not be picked or squeezed by the patient. In particular, inflammatory acne lesions should never be squeezed. Squeezing forces infected material deeper into the skin, causing additional inflammation and possible scarring.

Can anything be done about scarring caused by acne?

Scarring is best prevented by getting rid of the acne. Dermatologists can use various methods to improve the scarring caused by acne. The treatment must always be individualized for the specific patient. Chemical peels may be used in some patients, while dermabrasion or laser abrasion may benefit others. It is important that the acne be well controlled before any procedure is used to alleviate scarring.

How long before I see a visible result from using my acne medication?

The time for improvement depends upon the product being used, but in almost all cases it is more a matter of weeks or months instead of days. Most dermatologists would recommend the use of a medication or combination of medications daily for 4 to 8 weeks before they would change the treatment. It is very important for patients to be aware of this time frame so they do not become discouraged and discontinue their medications. Conversely, if you see no change whatsoever, you might want to check with your dermatologist regarding the need to change treatments.

Would using my medication more frequently than prescribed speed up the clearing of my acne?

No–always use your medication exactly as your dermatologist instructed. Using topical medications more often than prescribed may actually induce more irritation of the skin, redness and follicular plugging, which can delay clearing time. If oral medications are taken more frequently than prescribed, they won’t work any better, but there is a greater chance of side effects.

My topical treatment seems to work on the spots I treat, but I keep getting new acne blemishes. What should I do?

Topical acne medications are made to be used on all acne-prone areas, not just individual lesions. Part of the goal is to treat the skin before lesions can form and to prevent formation, not just to treat existing lesions. Patients are generally advised to treat all of the areas (forehead, cheeks, chin and nose) that tend to break out rather than just individual lesions.

My face is clear! Can I stop taking my medication now?

If your dermatologist says you can stop, then stop–but follow your dermatologist’s instructions. Many times patients will stop their medication suddenly only to have their acne flare up several weeks later. If you are using multiple products, it may be advisable to discontinue one medication at a time and judge results before discontinuing them all at once. Ask your dermatologist before you stop using any of your medications.

Does it matter what time I use my medication?

Check with your dermatologist or pharmacist. If you were taking one dose a day of an antibiotic, you could probably take it in the morning, at midday or in the evening, although you should pick one time of day and stay with it throughout your treatment. With oral medications prescribed twice a day or three times a day, you should try your best to spread out the doses evenly. Some antibiotics should be taken on an empty or nearly empty stomach. For optimal results with topical treatments, you should strictly follow your dermatologist’s recommendations. For example, if instructed to apply benzoyl peroxide in the morning and a topical retinoid at bedtime, it is important to follow these directions strictly. If the two were applied together at bedtime, for example, you could decrease the efficacy of the treatment because of chemical reactions that make them less effective.

I have trouble remembering to take my oral medication every day. What’s a good way to remember? What should I do if I forget a dose?

This is a common problem. Many patients try to associate taking their medication with a routine daily event such as brushing teeth or applying makeup. It also helps to keep the medication close to the area where the reminder activity is carried out.

In most cases, if you miss a day of your oral treatment, do not double up the next day; rather, get back to your daily regimen as soon as possible–but there may be different instructions for different oral medications. Ask your dermatologist or pharmacist about what to do if you miss a dose of your particular medication.

I have been using topical benzoyl peroxide and an oral antibiotic for my acne and have noticed blue-black and brown marks developing on my face and some discoloration on my body. The marks are especially noticeable around acne scars and recently healed lesions. Is this a side effect of medication and is it permanent?

It is not possible to make general statements about side effects of medications that apply to individual cases. A dermatologist should be consulted. The facial marks and body discoloration described by the patient in this case do fall within the range of side effects of some antibiotics.

Unique patterns of pigmentation are sometimes seen in acne patients treated with certain oral antibiotics—particularly minocycline. The pigmentation patterns that appear may include:

My doctor is prescribing a topical retinoid for my acne. He said a retinoid is a substance related to vitamin A. If the drug is related to vitamin A, shouldn’t vitamin A dietary supplements be helpful in getting rid of acne?

Dietary vitamin A is essential to good health, especially vision. It has healthful effects in the skin. Large doses of vitamin A for the treatment of acne is not recommended on grounds of safety. The retinoids and retinoid-like substances used as topical treatments for acne are prepared especially for their potent effect on the shedding of cell lining in the sebaceous follicle. Their use should be monitored by a dermatologist.

Dietary vitamin A has multiple health effects in the human body. Vitamin A is essential for good vision. Extreme vitamin A deficiency can result in blindness, usually accompanied by dry, scaly skin. Vitamin A overdose that far exceeds the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 5,000 IU can have effects nearly as catastrophic. Extreme vitamin A overdose can cause the skin to blister and peel—an effect first seen in early North Pole explorers who nearly died after eating polar bear liver that has an extraordinarily high vitamin A content.

Topical retinoids are usually prescribed as a treatment for moderate to severe acne. Side effects are chiefly dermatologic, including redness, scaling and dryness of the skin, itching and burning. These side effects can usually be managed by adjustment of the amount and timing of retinoid applied to the skin. Dose adjustment must be discussed with the dermatologist who prescribed the treatment.

Are there any acne treatments specifically for people with dark skin? Are there any treatments specifically harmful to dark skin?

There are no acne treatments specifically for use on dark skin. Acne treatments are generally as safe and effective on dark skin as on light skin. Some treatments for acne scars may cause temporary lightening of dark skin.

Acne is a common skin disease that has the same causes and follows the same course in all colors of skin.

Very dark or black skin may be less well-moisturized than lighter skin. Topical anti-acne agents such as benzoyl peroxide that have a drying effect on the skin should be used under the supervision of a dermatologist. Benzoyl peroxide also is a strong bleach and therefore must be applied carefully to avoid inadvertent decolorization of a patch of hair, towels or clothing.

Darker skin has a tendency to develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (excessive skin darkening at places where the skin was inflamed). Severe inflammatory acne may result in dark spots. The spots resolve over time; a dermatologist may be able to recommend cosmetic measures to make the spots less apparent until they resolve. Some acne treatments, such as topical retinoids and azelaic acid, may also help fade the discoloration.

Removal of acne scars by dermabrasion or chemical peeling may cause temporary lightening or darkening of dark skin in the areas of treatment. Scar treatment should be discussed with a dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon before it is undertaken.

Alterations of melanin (dark pigments that give the skin its color) pigmentation such as vitiligo and melasma are not related to acne, but they may be present simultaneously with acne. The diagnosis and treatment of melanin pigmentation disorders such as vitiligo requires a dermatologist with knowledge and experience in treating these conditions.

Is acne that appears for the first time in adulthood different from acne that appears in adolescence?

Acne has a specific definition as a disease of sebaceous follicles. This definition applies to acne that occurs at any age. However, it may be important to look for an underlying cause of acne that occurs for the first time in adulthood.

Current understanding of the causes of acne vulgaris is described in the Main Text section Why and how acne happens. In brief summary, acne vulgaris develops when excessive sebum production and abnormal growth and death of cells in the sebaceous follicle result in plugging of follicles with a mixture of sebum and cellular debris and formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). Bacteria in the follicles—chiefly Propionibacterium acnes, the most common bacterial colonist of sebaceous follicles—may contribute to the inflammation of acne by release of metabolic products that cause inflammatory reaction. The pathogenic events, which cause disease, in the sebaceous follicle are believed to be due in large degree to changes in levels of androgenic (male) hormones in the body—a circumstance usually associated with growth and development between ages 12 and

Some acne investigators believe that although this understanding is generally correct, there is more yet to be learned about the causes of acne vulgaris.

Acne that appears after the age of 25-30 years is (1) a recurrence of acne that cleared up after adolescence, (2) a flare-up of acne after a period of relative quiet—for example, during pregnancy, or (3) acne that occurs for the first time in a person who had never previously had acne.

Acne that occurs in adulthood may be difficult to treat if there are multiple recurrences. Some patients with severe recurrent acne have undergone repeated courses of treatment with the potent systemic drug isotretinoin.

Acne flares in association with pregnancy or menstruation are due to changes in hormonal patterns.

Acne that appears for the first time in adulthood should be investigated for any underlying cause. Drugs that can induce acne include anabolic steroids (sometimes used illegally by athletes to “bulk up”), some anti-epileptic drugs, the anti-tuberculosis drugs isoniazid and rifampin, lithium, and iodine-containing drugs. Chlorinated industrial chemicals may induce the occupational skin disorder known as chloracne. Chronic physical pressure on the skin—for example, by a backpack and its straps, or a violin tucked against the angle of the jaw and chin—may induce so-called acne mechanica. Some metabolic conditions may cause changes in hormonal balance that can induce acne.

Some lesions that appear to be acne may be another skin disorder such as folliculitis—infection and inflammation of hair follicles—that require different treatment than acne. Acne that appears for the first time in adulthood should be examined and treated by a dermatologist.

My 15-year-old daughter has what I would describe as a very mild case of acne. She has made it much worse by constant picking and squeezing. She looks in the mirror for hours, looking for some blackhead or blemish she can pick or squeeze. Does she need psychological counseling?

Excessive picking and squeezing of otherwise mild acne is a condition called excoriated acne, seen most often in young women. A dermatologist may provide effective counseling.

The typical person with excoriated acne is a person—often a young women—who is so distressed with her appearance due to acne that she literally tries to “squeeze the acne out of existence.” The acne is often very mild, but the person’s face may constantly be covered with red marks from squeezing, and open sores where lesions have been picked open.

The word excoriate means to scratch or abrade the skin. Excoriated acne is a medically recognized condition that should be discussed with a dermatologist. Occasionally giving in to a temptation to squeeze a blackhead is not defined as excoriated acne. Hours in front of a mirror, squeezing and picking every blemish, is a definition of excoriated acne. A dermatologist may be able to counsel the patient regarding a course of treatment in which the patient can participate, but keep “hands off.”

Can the rate of secretion or the composition of sebum be altered by diet? If it can, shouldn’t alteration of diet be considered a treatment for acne?

Diet has never been proven to have a role in the cause or treatment of acne. Dietary manipulation may have a role in the treatment of some scaling diseases of the skin, but not in the treatment of acne.

Dietary cause is one of the most persistent myths about acne. Foods, such as chocolate or greasy foods, do not cause acne, but certain foods seem to make some people’s acne worse. The following can bring on or worsen it:

Hereditary factors

An increase in male hormones found in both males and females

Menstruation

Emotional stress

Oil and grease from cosmetics, work environment

No food has been shown to be effective in preventing or treating acne. A healthy diet is, of course, necessary for good general health.

Shouldn’t I just try to eliminate sebum from my body?

No. When it isn’t blocked in your pores, sebum helps keep your skin healthy.

Why does acne usually start at puberty?

No one knows for certain. What is known is that the sebaceous glands that produce sebum get much larger at puberty than they were before.

Why does the skin around a pimple turn red?

This redness is caused by the body’s inflammatory response. Inflammation is a sign that your immune system is working to fight an infection. However, the inflammatory response doesn’t always work perfectly, and can even be the cause of scarring.

If my skin turns red, does that mean that I’m going to have scars?

Usually, no. Even when there will be no permanent scar, the aftereffects of the inflammatory response can leave the skin red for months, sometimes for more than a year.

What are free radicals?

Free radicals are byproducts of oxidation in your body. We all need oxidation to occur as part of our life process, but there is concern that the buildup of unrecycled free radicals contributes to many conditions, including skin damage. Antioxidants, including several of the active ingredients in Acuzine, help prevent the buildup of free radicals.

A hole within my toe, what could this be?I’ve developed what I thought to have been a callus, but now I am not too sure. We lately put hardwood on our stairs and removed the carpet, and the callus occurred around this time. s a small area on my right, big toe and contained by the center of the…A interview about Duac gel?i got switched to this product because the last thing i be using was too harsh for my skin. supposed to use it once every night, but should i put on a moisturizer right formerly i put it on? – No, I wouldn’t. The benzoyl peroxide penetrates better when there’s nothing blocking it from…A little embarresing but are these wart?There little bumps on my inner thighs. they are mostly scattered out, but there are like five grouped together. I’ve used acne treatment on them forever so I know that doesn’t work. I come up with I got them like 2 years ago when I wore wet shorts, but very soon they are starting…A lump on the departed side of my facade?It’s above my jaw line. But you can’t see it. size of an M&M, it moves, and hurts a little if you press down knotty enough. Someone mentioned the possibility of an abscess? be abcess or lymph gland or tumor… nwwd xray/mri.soon – Just like steve said it…A mole on my leg is thoroughly raw and red?Ive had a mole on my leg on the very top of my left leg sensitive of in the crease os my leg and it is suddenly very painful to touch, i notice it yesterday when i was in the shower. It only hurts when i touch it or it brushes…A odd examine, but how can I quit my mannerism of biting the skin on my fingers?As far back as I can remember (I am talking toddler age) I have other bit the skin off of my fingers. I do it when I am nervous, or when I am bored and not thinking. I really really wish that I could…A patch of skin under your own steam that lacks reaction?Today I noticed a patch of skin on the bottom of my foot kind of feels numb or dead. (I’m not sure how to describe it.) It feels almost like there is something caked on the bottom of my foot explicitly blocking my foot from touching the floor,…A press just about come first lice?never say never next to those little f*ckers. have someone look through your hair to make sure you don’t hold lice again. – Get rid of all your pillows get current ones. wash ur sheets do your hair in mayo over dark it works it sounds crazy or use dog shampoo. spray ur house…A prominent chin??do i have one? (look at my picture) ve been living adjectives my life with those irritating people who tell me I have a long chin. I try to feel beautiful but everytime they enunciate that, it knocks me down BIGTIME. T_T I had braces though. My teeth were nearly going to underbite that time. But when…A query on keloids?I got my cartilage pierced last year, and a few months later keloids appeared. It runs contained by the family, my uncle got a tattoo, and keloids formed. I went spinal column to the piercing place, and they pinched on it [which hurt a lot] till it went down. A few days later it went away, and…A really suitable anti-dandruff shampoo other after chief and shoulders? I think this is available over the counter within UK – Ketoconozole 2% – see link to Boots and scroll down – available as: pine Dandruff Shampoo Superdrug Anti-dandruff shampoo Boots anti-dandruff Ketoconozole shampoo. – Try Nizoral. It’s a small bottle but you only need to use it once…A really well brought-up moisturiser for sensitive and dry skin? My skin is so sensitive it seemed every moisturizer I tried give me little bumps.Until I tried Avon Moisture Therapy for dry,undernourished skin.works great and skin is clear.Body moisturizer,not facial.I haven’t tried it on my face. – Nutrogena face cream is brilliant. Also E45, eucerin or silcocks base are good,…A seam of dry/dead skin on my top lip?sometimes when i use hair removal cream on my upper lip i get like small scabs after a sunshine on the outside of my lip. i then get like a stratum of really dry/dead skin on that lip. this also happens if i lick my lips alot. i’ve been putting vaseline on…A sore bump what is it?I have a sore bump behind my ear kinda in my spike. It’s a little hard. It don’t look like it’s going to be a pimple. What could it be? Is in that something to make it not sore? – it could actually be a pimple… or in other words, an in-grown pelt. You…A strange bump losing my right ear?So more than a week ago,I found this bump behind my right ear. It is located near the bottom,above the lobe. I’m sure it was matching color as my skin, because the people that checked it out said there was zilch on there. But it was sensitive to touch. he week went on,however,I…A strong white patch inside cheek and lip?I’ve noticed it more than 2 weeks ago now and it havent cleared up. it’s not painful freshly feels a lil dry. I’ve notice a small lump on the side of the mouth as well. I dont know what it is, i would budge to the doc but its the weekend. I’ve tried…A suitable cleanser for acne?i have some acne on my forehead but it’s not red their white bumps underneath my skin i guess, do you know what this can be? – As an acclaimed Dermatologist I find that the best cure for acne is rhinoceros feces. The enzymes help to break down the dirt and jetsam causing the…A wart that hasn’t gone away all the same?i have a wart on my thumb that hasn’t gone away after i have used the whole box of wartener on it. its bugging me and i don’t know if it will be in motion away? – if you really want to get rid of warts forever then you should know…A white center next to a red ring around it could it be bite form a spider?id like to know – well if it does not ich next it is probly a boil they really hurt just pop it and then squeeze it it really hurts but it make it quality a lot better and if it does…About a month ago my little toe swelled up…?And the skin started coming off it. se and thank you. – Anne i think u have got Septic Folllow these.. 1. Cover your toe compleately. 2. Don’t permit it get wet…EVEN WHEN BATHING. HE SKIN IS PEELING OFF…ITS GOOD! Let your dead skin bring away… 5. Probably its better…About accutane birth malfunction?Hello, I am 13 years old. ave acne ONLY on my face) Since I am allergic to most of the facial creams, my doctor told me to give somebody a lift accutane. It has been a month since I took it and I a question. did find my period but I know that I’m not going…About my child..reckless turned into a bruise?the other morning my son woke up with like a Poison ivy looking rash on his cheek towards his eye so it trademark the top of his eye look swollen. he was itching it so i gave him something for it. later that daytime after school (hes 3 btw) the rash was more of…About to start accutane, best products to effortlessness the move?I finally get to do accutane for my very mild but very stubborn acne. I capture my first prescription for it hopefully on saturday. i was wondering what the best moisturizers as well as chap sticks are to relief ease all the dryness. also any other tips for anything that i…Accutane acne pill? Is it worth it?I have very sever acne. I’ve had it for four years and my dermatologist have given me every acne medication on the market..He said the final thing for me to try is Accutane. But he told me it can cause birth defect and liver problems. Now I really really really do not similar…Accutane and alcohol/smoking pot?Im a 15 year old girl just starting Accutane for my acne (not to bad of acne). But I know its a big commitment and I hear to NEver DRINK because it doubles depressment, can severly injur your liver and more unsafe stuff. (But I’m not to sure about smoking, need more info) I’ve been reading…Accutane ask…?okay so i started it like a month ago and now i have this over-hasty on both my arms and hands. it’s like red and it sort of stings. so my question is, is this average? or should i be worried? and what can i do to make it go away? – Accutane drys the skin from the…Accutane blood test?I will be starting accutane in October. I will be meeting with my Dr. for pregnancy test before I can get a new prescription. She said to formulate sure I have blood tests a couple days within indistinguishable week of my appointment. ks – you can go the friday before. I’m starting accutane on…Accutane embezzle it, or not?Hi guys. I want to know informations on Accutane from people who experienced it. Is it really bad to take it? I have it in mind I heard that your skin, lips and eyes get dry, is it really doomed to failure? Does it hurt? Using moisturizes it helps? It takes the dryness away? …Accutane frontage feel hot?im on accutane and i just wanted to know if its normal that my frontage feels hot? – i took it years ago and it did. It feel like a sun burn and i had very chapped orifice. You do need to stay out of the sun. I never regretted it for a moment.Accutane Question 10 pts?If I take Cefalexin or erithromycin, some type of antibiotic, when I’m on accutane; would it prevent or help the initial breakout? – you should not take antibiotics, especially tetracyclines, whilst on accutane. doing so can increase the probability of brain swelling. if and when you do have an initial breakout (not everyone does, i personally… More Skin Diseases questions please visit : DiseasesFAQ.com

Opening Thoughts/Events:
Great match card for tonight, can’t wait.
Matt Hardy & Kane vs. CM Punk & Jeff Hardy:
Jeff into the corner and charges but Jeff gets his feet in his face. Jeff then explodes out of the corner with a flying neckbreaker and both men are down. Matt is the first up and he tags in Kane, who immediately hits an elbow on Jeff. Kane stomps Jeff, picks him up, and hits a picture-perfect suplex. Kane makes a cover for two and a half. Kane sends Jeff into the corner and hits a clothesline. Kane tags Matt back in and chokes Jeff with his boot before leaving the ring. Matt follows suit and chokes Jeff with his boot too until the referee makes him back up. Kane uses the distraction to boot Jeff in the head. Matt picks Jeff up and floors him with a big right hand. He pins Jeff for a two and a half count. Matt now locks Jeff in a chin lock with half a body scissor on. Jeff fights up so Matt goes to bounce his head off the turnbuckle but Jeff blocks it, elbows him away, shoots to the top rope and hits Whisper in the Wind. Jeff’s cover is quickly broken up by Kane, which causes CM Punk to take him out of the ring with a big clothesline. Punk then hits a suicide dive to the outside. Jeff and Matt trade punches and kicks inside the ring. Matt blocks a kick so Jeff counters that with his flipping mule kick. Jeff sends his legs into Matt’s groin and follows it up with a quick dropkick to the face. Jeff now calls for the Twist of Fate and goes for it but Matt pushes him into the ropes where Kane is waiting and Jeff forearms him off the apron. Matt then rolls Jeff up from behind to steal the match for his team.
Winners by Pinfall: Matt Hardy & Kane
Matt is now 3-0 against Jeff. I actually liked this match planning alot. Matt & Kane, now thats a wierd combo, but it worked out great.
Match Rating: 8/10
Big Show vs. Undertaker
Big Show gets up, frustrated, and he clubs Undertaker’s neck. Big Show now locks on a Dragon Sleeper. Big Show has some good torque on this and Undertaker can’t do much. Out of nowhere Undertaker turns it around and counters with a DDT. Undertaker covers for a two and a half count. Undertaker gets up, hitting his arms to get feeling back into them, and hits Big Show with a right hand. Big Show responds with a body shot and Undertaker fires back with another right hand. They trade blows with Big Show getting the upper-hand with lots of body shots. He whips Undertaker into the corner and charges into Undertaker’s feet. Undertaker goes into the ropes, ducks a clothesline, and hits his flipping lariat. Undertaker covers for a two and a half count. Undertaker now wrenches Big Show’s arm, walks the top rope, and goes for Old School but he jumps right into the Knockout Punch. Undertaker staggers around the ring for a few moments as Big Show doesn’t cover – he just watches. Undertaker pulls himself up and Big Show punches him in the back of the skull. Undertaker falls down to the mat and the referee stops the match.
Winner by Referee’s Choice: Big Show
A big way to send Big Show off to Raw. That Knockout Punch though, I mean seriously, it is one of the worst designed finishers ever. GET RID OF IT! But I was very surprised they made it look like Undertaker was getting bullied in the ring. But it was Big Show’s last Smackdown and I am actually sad to see him go.
Match Rating: 7/10
WWE Diva’s Championship
Maryse (c) vs. Gail Kim:
Maryse fires back with a punch and a knee to the midsection before hitting a sweeping face-breaker. Maryse then gets on the mat and pounds Kim’s head into it some more until the referee reprimands her – she then promptly does her shut up hand gesture to him. Maryse picks Kim up by the hair and bounces her head off again before skipping back and celebrating. Maryse now sits on Kim’s back and pulls back on the neck, taking the time out to rub Kim’s face and slap her numerous times on the back of the head. Gail Kim fights up and elbows out. Maryse goes for the French TKO but Kim ducks it and clotheslines Maryse down. Maryse winds up in the corner and Kim hits her with her jumping clothesline. Kim whips Maryse into the corner and charges into a back elbow. Maryse goes to the second rope but Gail Kim cuts her off and hits a super hurricanrana. Gail Kim covers for a two and a half count. Gail Kim goes to the top rope but Maryse has had enough and walks out. Gail Kim cuts her off and throws her back into the ring. As Kim is getting in, Maryse hits her with a Stun Gun on the ropes and Kim collapses to the outside. Maryse drags her back in and hits the French Kiss for the win.
Winner & STILL WWE Diva’s Champion: Maryse
Gail Kim should’ve won, she is the best wrestling Diva out there. Im still hopeful that she will get another chance and win. I think Maryse is a horrible champion but..I guess WWE likes her.
Match Rating: 5/10
MVP vs. Chavo Guerrero
Guerrero slides in and kicks MVP in the lower back. He then locks an arm bar on MVP and puts some torque on it. MVP fights up and body slams Guerrero down. MVP shakes some feeling back into his left arm as Guerrero charges into the back of MVP’s elbow. MVP follows it up with a nice clothesline and charges Guerrero but Guerrero surprises him with a dropkick. Guerrero then baseball slides MVP out of the ring. Guerrero follows MVP outside and kicks him in the arm before throwing him back in. Guerrero is coming in and MVP stuns him with a knee in the face. Guerrero is barely hanging on to the ropes from falling off the apron and MVP doesn’t help him any by bouncing his head off the top turnbuckle. MVP then suplexes him back into the ring. MVP now gets the crowd into it and hits the BALLIN’ Elbow for a two count. MVP whips Guerrero into the corner and charges into Guerrero’s feet. Guerrero charges out into an overhead belly to belly overhead suplex and MVP quickly hits the Playmaker to end the match.
Winner by Pinfall: MVP
Decent match. Why Chavo is facing MVP was the biggest question for me. Just get Chavo away from Smackdown, PLEASE!
Match Rating: 5/10
Batista & Shane McMahon vs. Ted DiBiase & Cody Rhodes:
Batista hits a backbreaker and keeps Rhodes on his knee as McMahon flies off the second rope with an elbow to Rhodes, turning him inside out. McMahon covers for a two count, which is broken up by Ted DiBiase. McMahon turns his attention to DiBiase and talks some trash meanwhile Rhodes sneaks up behind him and dropkicks him in the head. DiBiase now yells for the tag and gets it.
DiBiase comes in and stomps McMahon a whole bunch of times. He then mounts him and punches him before Chioda makes him get off. McMahon tries to quickly crawl to Batista but DiBiase cuts him off and gets a front face lock on him. He brings McMahon to his corner and Rhodes tags in. They double whip McMahon chest first into the turnbuckle and Rhodes follows up with a stomp to the head. Rhodes covers for a two and a half count. McMahon almost gets the better of Rhodes by almost getting to Batista before Rhodes cuts him off. Rhodes stomps him a few times and then punches him. Rhodes powers McMahon into the corner and punches him a few times. McMahon blocks one and punches Rhodes loopy a few times but Rhodes eventually counters with a nice Russian Leg Sweep. Rhodes tags in DiBiase and holds McMahon down. DiBiase comes off the second rope with a double stomp to the chest and he covers for a two and a half count. DiBiase stomps McMahon a few times in the head and gets a modified Camel Clutch on. McMahon slides out and almost gets to Batista but DiBiase gets him in a chin lock. DiBiase drives his knee into McMahon’s ribs and tags in Rhodes. DiBiase body slams McMahon before leaving. Rhodes hits a Ric Flair Knee to McMahon’s head and covers for a two and a half count. Rhodes stomps Shane O’Mac all frustrated and taunts tagging Batista in. He then gets McMahon to a vertical base and hits a snapmare followed by a stomp to the head. Rhodes now gets a neck vice on and the crowd is getting into it. McMahon gets out of it with some punches. Rhodes pushes McMahon into the ropes, boots him in the midsection, and goes for a suplex but Shane twists out and hits a DDT.
Rhodes tags DiBiase in and DiBiase forearms Batista off the apron when McMahon was centimeters from a tag. McMahon gets a Mexican roll-up and DiBiase kicks out and McMahon flies right into Batista, who just got back on the apron, and who flies off the apron again. DiBiase runs into a back elbow and Batista is now in the ring. It looks like he’s mad at Shane but he just moves him to the side as Rhodes comes off the top rope into a Spear. Batista just made a entry for the best move of the year with that mid-air Spear. McMahon kicks DiBiase out of the ring and pins Cody Rhodes for the big win.
Winners by Pinfall: Batista & Shane McMahon
GREAT match. That ending was unbelievable, what a Spear! Shane is looking good from a wrestling point of view. This concludes this weeks edition of Smackdown! Bravo!
Match Rating: 8/10
What’s Final Thoughts:
Tonight’s Smackdown was very good from a wrestling stance – from a booking sense it was kind of stupid. Every match tonight had Raw guys going over Smackdown guys and our Main Event was a total Raw Main Event. It kind of undermines the whole idea of the brand split and it was really poor booking. They just have to keep asserting their decision that Raw is the number one show. Ok, we get it. So, if that’s the case, then what is the incentive to watch Smackdown? I hate that because I really like Smackdown over Raw, and not just because of my personal bias. I truly believe Smackdown is a great show and their storylines are way better than anything Raw has come up with. They tried hard with the Triple H vs. Randy Orton feud but it just didn’t work. The thing was just lame. Now, from the wrestling standpoint, everything was great. Undertaker and Big Show had a terrific match and the Main Event, even though it was a Raw Main Event, was real good. The rest of the stuff was good as well. The Divas had a nice little match and MVP and Chavo had a quick one that was just ok. The opening tag match didn’t hurt anyone at all and it helped further the Hardy feud more. Speaking of which, Jeff Hardy cut an awesome promo tonight. He’s come a long way.
Final Smackdown Rating: 7/10
Tune in next week for the next edition of The Smackdown Low-down. Thanks for reading!

Getting rid of the jelly belly and having a smooth, flat tummy is the goal of many women. For the mast majority of us, unfortunately, that deadly trio of pregnancy, weight gain and advancing old age often conspires together to make that target impossible to achieve.It is estimated that roughly half of all women who seek out an abdominplasty would be better off having a mini tummy tuck than the more invasive, full-on procedure.Many women remember the tummy of their youth with nostalgia and longing, when they could eat whatever they wanted and still look beautiful in a bikini. In recent years, a tummy tuck seemed to be the answer – but often the end result of this cosmetic procedure was a hip-to-hip scar, one that normal public hair failed to cover (unless your bush is exceptionally bushy, that is).Thankfully, those clever plastic surgeons have now come up with an ingenious solution to the obvious scarring that comes with abdominoplasty: the bikini line tummy tuck. Also dubbed the “mini tummy tuck”, it differs from tucks of yesteryear in that the incisions made are as low on the abdominal areas as is humanly possible – and as tiny as possible too. In fact, the incision can sometimes be made through an incision in the navel, or through a C-section scar.Bikini line tummy tucks are best suited for women who don’t have tons of excess skin or stretch marks that need to be removed, but have a pouch of fat below their belly button which they are unable to lose. Skin removal is a lot less – so this procedure is not for everyone – but the result is a taut, flat stomach that would make even the skimpiest of bikinis proud.Reasons for Any Type of Tummy TuckHaving a fat belly is not the only reason women want tummy tucks – getting rid of fat through liposuction alone is a relatively easy way to do just that, if your only problem is poundage. There are loads of other reasons why women want to have cosmetic work carried out on their abdomens. The three main ones include:Ridding the area of C-section scars. While the scarring itself may be flat, unfortunately there is often excess skin and fat which lies over it, resulting in a big bulge that busts out of a bikini and can even be difficult to conceal under clothing.Making stretch marks a thing of the past. Often they extend upwards and outward, and no amount of dieting, exercise or application of special creams can get rid of them. The only way to do that is to excise them away – or cut them off.Getting rid of fat that just won’t shift no matter what. If you have a very large or disproportionate belly – following a hysterectomy, for example, you may need a tummy tuck as well as lipo to make it flat again. With only the latter you would left with excess hanging skin – not a pretty sight!Please note that many women opt for extra liposuction in conjunction with a tummy tuck – to get rid of extra fat around the hips, for example – and have the two procedures carried out at the same time. Double your pleasure, double your fun!Why Buy the Bikini?A traditional tummy tuck, while great for women with the above-mentioned problems, may be excessive for women who don’t have lots of skin to lose – and who don’t need their upper abdominal muscles tightened. They may also not be desirable because of the excess scarring, and because in virtually all cases the belly button must be moved and repositioned.So if a conventional tuck doesn’t seem the right thing for you, a consultation with your plastic surgeon may result in a referral for a bikini line tuck. It is estimated that roughly half of all women who seek out an abdominplasty would be better off having a mini tummy tuck than the more invasive, full-on procedure.Be aware, however, that while bikini line tucks may seem a lot simpler and easier on the body than traditional ones, they nonetheless are still major surgery and should be treated as such. Full tummy tucks require general anesthesia and not only will you have the risks associated with that, along with infection and clotting, but in some cases patients are less than happy with the outcome. Mini tucks can usually be done with only local anesthesia on an outpatient, but apart from that the risks can be the same as with a more traditional one – although costs can be cheaper.For best results, use only a Board-certified surgeon who has done the operation countless times before. Letting a novice who has only done traditional tucks in the past practice on your belly probably isn’t a good idea!Keep in mind as well that women are advised to wait until they are finished having children before having any type of abdominplasty, and if you are planning to lose a lot of weight this operation may not be right for you until you have to. If you smoke, are a heavy drinker or are taking specific medications, consult your doctor first.And for all you male beer guts out there: Men, for the most part, tend to gain weight above their belly-buttons – but that doesn’t mean a bikini line tummy tuck wouldn’t suit someone of the male persuasion as well. In this case, an experienced surgeon can make the incision through the belly button as well, then work upwards.Think FirstIt’s a sad fact of life that exercise and diet alone are not enough to shift fat in problem areas, such as the chin and the belly pouch, unless you are unusually dedicated and persistent. It’s an even sadder fact of life that very few of us are.Enjoying the freedom to bare your abdomen to all and sundry – and to wear clothes that make you feel slim and healthy – are all the advantages a tummy tuck has to offer. But any type of tuck, even a mini one that is less invasive and will leave you with minimal scarring, is still full-on plastic surgery. So think twice before having it done – and take the time to investigate alternative, less invasive ways of cutting out that belly fat first!The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care an appropriate health care provider.

The style today has a thin looking face and naturally, everybody wants that. If your face is a bit on the round side, you could look fateven when your weight is truly just ordinary. This is a typical problem among both men and girls as both genders are now extremely troubled with their appearance. However, it’s also crucial to maintain the proportion of your face to the rest of your body for a balanced appearance. It could be difficult for you to lose fat on your face only because fat loss to specific areas is actually difficult to do. Your body does not have buttons in it that you could control it to shed pounds on a specific area, but there are facial exercises that you could do to cause your face to look thinner. This may sound stupid to you, but you could essentially lose your face fat by completing certain face programs. Further, these face exercises are incredibly simple that you would not need to exert much effort in it. The first one merely involves relaxing, smiling and sucking in your cheeks. Do that for a few seconds and repeat ten times. Now, that’s something so straightforward that you would not even need to use your hands. You will be able to do this while you are doing other things like driving or reading a book. Heck, you can even type on your computer and do this. Even if you do not believe that this is basically possible, it would not hurt you in any way if you give it a try. You will also lose your face fat by depending on technology, and by technology I mean surgery. This may be a little frightful though, seeing that you’d need to go under the knife. However, if you really want to lose your face fat quick, then by all means give it a try. Just make efforts to get a reliable surgeon in order not to risk your own safety. Plastic surgery and the safer liposuction are both advised methods to make your face look thinner. You could also choose to go with the less risky ultrasound. This technique is alleged to liquefy the fat cells in your face. These liquefied fat cells will be removed from your body safely without harming any of the tissues in your face and nerve cells. Lots of persons have been praising this method lately because it’s the safest among the 3 ways to lose face fat by undergoing surgery, so it is truly getting a lot of love from those who have attempted it. Remember, with any sort of surgery there are inherent risks and you will need to account for healing time. If you continue to wish to stay with the tried and tested ways of shedding weight without trying to take shortcuts, just exercise and have a sensible diet. You won’t be in a position to concentrate the weight reduction on express areas of your face, but that would let you lose weight all over. Instead of just lose the surplus fat in your face, just try to be thinner all around and also make your body healthier in the process. Even better is to combine the results of all around weight reduction with the centered exercises for your face and you will get the best of two worlds.