Why do we really buy cosmetics?

Do cosmetics make us feel better on the inside as they're helping us look good on the outside? A recent study suggests that some people might be buying cosmetics for emotional reasons.

Scientists at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) surveyed 355 women and asked them questions regarding the emotional and physical functions that cosmetics serve as well as how satisfied they were with the products. They found that consumers were most satisfied when the product helped them feel better about themselves and brought about positive emotions.

"The study shows that both the emotional and utility aspect of cosmetic brands have a significant impact on consumer satisfaction, but that the emotional component has a greater effect", said Vanessa Apaolaza, a researcher from UPV and lead author of the study.

Researchers found that the largest emotional component involved in cosmetics buying was the positive feeling that comes from successful social interactions while wearing the products.

African American skin care products can help women boost their self-esteem by letting them know that they're buying a product that not only helps them look great, but contains healthy antioxidants to protect their skin.  

Protecting skin may benefit the immune system

Looking for any more reasons to keep skin healthy? New research suggests that dendritic cells, which are found in the skin, help the immune system function properly.

The study, which can be found in the journal Immunity, sought to explore immune response and may aid in the development of vaccinations and treatments for autoimmune diseases.

Scientitsts found that dendritic cells identify molecules that the immune system will respond to and alert other cells so that they can react. This is important because many immune cells cannot identify these molecules and need the dendritic cells to recognize them in order to start protecting the body.

"Our work demonstrates that dendritic cells in the skin promote distinct and opposing antigen-specific responses," explains lead researcher Dr. Daniel Kaplan.

Better understanding of how the immune system works helps scientists develop treatments that can mimic the effect of the immune system and aid those who experience autoimmune disorders.

Protecting the skin has many potential benefits. Using products for black skin with SPF for sun protection can keep skin healthy and looking great.  

Pomegranate may benefit skin and cells

The website AntioxidantSkincare.com details the benefits that antioxidants can have on skin. Recently, they explained the many ways in which pomegranate extract may help the skin.

The website reports that pomegranate extract may help increase the skin's collagen production. Collagen in the skin reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and gives skin a firm and youthful appearance. The site also claims that using a skin care product containing pomegranate extract may protect skin against the damaging effects of the sun. Pomegranate has been shown to possibly boost the efficacy of SPF in the skin.

Pomegranate extract may be a good source of antioxidants. According to the National Institutes of Health, antioxidants may protect your cells from toxins produced from certain foods and environmental factors. The Mayo Clinic reports that antioxidants may also help prevent diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's disease.

Women looking to protect their skin and their bodies should consider using skin care products for black skin that contain pomegranate extract.  

Prepare for vacations with the right skin care products

Most women have a hard time packing for vacations. It can be impossible to know which accessories and how much make up to bring and trying to fit it all into a suitcase can be a nightmare.

The New Zealand Herald decided to tackle this problem by offering its readers some tips on what beauty supplies to take while traveling.

The news source recommended bringing an all purpose balm for lips, sore feet and bug bites. The also suggested waterproof eyeliner, mascara and a light moisturizer. Don't bring any make ups or creams that are too thick or heavy, especially if traveling to a tropical climate.

Finally, the Herald warned its readers to stick with what they know. A vacation is no time to be experimenting with different skin care products, and although the hotel may offer free shampoos and lotions, its still best for women to use the products that they already know work for them.

If going to a tropical climate, The Skin Cancer foundation recommends taking sunscreen to protect against potentially harmful UV rays. On their website they have posted the new FDA regulations regarding sunscreen, which can help people decide which product is the best for them.

Ethnic women should remember to bring African American skin care products with them when traveling to keep skin looking great wherever they go.