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Beauty - Improving Your Body Image Why do I hate the way I look? A negative body image can affect a woman’s entire life. It can lead to feelings of shame and anxiety, low self-esteem, extreme dieting or other eating disorders, and depression. There can be several causes of a negative body image, starting with the pressure to look like society’s ideal, or comparing yourself with someone you consider attractive. Negative comments from friends or family may also be a cause. What can I do about it? Learning to accept yourself is a process, but it is worth the effort. Start by understanding and accepting that women can be attractive and healthy regardless of their shape or size. Taking control of your health and wellness will help improve your body image. This may mean deciding to eat healthier, exercise more, or get more rest. These are simple but effective strategies that will increase your energy and make you feel good inside and out. Where can I find out more? Here are some helpful links on improving your body image: WomensHealth.gov Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center Beauty - Beautiful Hair and Skin I am self-conscious about my acne, but what can I do? Acne is a condition caused by skin cells that do not shed properly, which plugs your pores, and causes oil and bacteria to be trapped inside. This causes inflammation and swelling, forming whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. There are several ways to deal with mild acne at home, including washing your face twice a day with gentle cleanser and warm water, over-the-counter cream or lotion. Your doctor may prescribe a cream containing benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, or sulfur. If you don’t see an improvement in six to eight weeks, see your doctor. For extreme cases of acne, covering a large portion of your face or other parts of your body, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic or even an oral contraceptive. Another effective treatment is the use of an FDA approved laser that delivers a green laser pulse to the affected area, boosting the body’s natural bacteria-fighting defenses. For more information on laser acne treatments, go to Northeast Laser Cosmetics. I have varicose veins, and they are not only ugly, they hurt. Is there any hope? Varicose veins occur when valves in the veins become weakened and allow blood to back into the vein and pool there. This enlarges the vein and causes a bulge, which can appear red, blue or purple. They can be caused by genetic factors, increasing age, pregnancy, obesity, leg injury, or hormonal changes. Varicose veins can become painful as they enlarge over time. You can help new varicose veins and alleviate symptoms by getting regular exercise, wearing elastic support hose, elevating your legs when you can, reducing your sodium intake, losing weight, and not crossing your legs while seated. Laser treatment is also available, which heats and coagulates the pooled blood in the vein, causing the vein to collapse and seal. The body later absorbs this. To find out more, go to Northeast Laser Cosmetics.
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