Primula vulgaris, the common primrose, is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae, native to western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and parts of southwest Asia. The common name is primrose, or occasionally common primrose or English primrose to distinguish it from other Primula species also called primroses.

None of these are closely related to the evening primroses (genus Oenothera).

The scientific name Primula is a diminutive of the Latin primus, 'prime', alluding to the ...

primula vulgaris

What-are-wrinkles?

What are wrinkles?

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Wrinkles are lines that form on the skin. They are a natural part of your body's aging process. Wrinkles are most often found on the face, neck and hands, but can appear anywhere on the body.&nbsp;

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Why do wrinkles appear? One of the reasons has to do with our natural aging. Elastin and collagen fibers give the skin elasticity and strength. The number of these fibers in the skin decreases over time, causing wrinkles. Our skin has a layer of fat just below the surface (subcutaneous layer) that gives shape and structure. This layer of fat thins as we age, leading to sagging skin. 1

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In addition to these physiological features, there are also external factors that contribute to the appearance of wrinkles. Sun exposure is the most common cause of skin damage and wrinkles, so the use of sunscreen is crucial. Last but not least, smoking is the cause of more wrinkles in smokers, among other health risks.

Who-could-have-wrinkles?

Who could have wrinkles?

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Anyone who gets older can notice wrinkles on their skin. You may be at greater risk of getting wrinkles at an early age if:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">You have sun-damaged skin or your skin is often exposed to the sun without protective products;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">You use tobacco products;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Your body rapidly loses collagen or does not produce, which gives your skin elasticity and strength.</li></ul>Sun exposure seems to be the most significant cause, especially in people with fair skin. A 2013 study found that 80 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun. &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dovepress.com/effect-of-the-sun-on-visible-clinical-signs-of-aging-in-caucasian-skin-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-CCID" target="_blank" data-ref="Effect of the sun on visible clinical signs of aging in Caucasian skin | CCID" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

Types-of-wrinkles

Types of wrinkles

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Generally speaking, there are two main types of wrinkles:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dynamic wrinkles - They develop from repetitive movements of the face. If you often bend your lips around a straw or cigarette, for example, you may get nasolabial wrinkles.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Static wrinkles - They are the result of a loss of elasticity and the action of gravity. Wrinkles that are located in the jaw area are static.</li></ul>

Home-remedies-for-wrinkles:-Natural-remedies-that-work

Home remedies for wrinkles: Natural remedies that work

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There are many affordable home remedies that can help prevent the formation of wrinkles.

Aloe-vera

Aloe vera

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Aloe vera has numerous healing properties. An older 2009 study suggested that taking a daily aloe vera gel supplement significantly reduced the appearance of wrinkles in just 90 days. 3

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In a 2015 study, scientists found that applying aloe gel to the skin significantly reduced the appearance of wrinkles, and also promoted collagen production and hydration. 4

Superfoods

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Foods rich in health-promoting nutrients are often referred to as "superfoods." There are many superfoods that can prevent the appearance of wrinkles and improve overall health.

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A 2019 study looking at the diets of older men and women from the Netherlands found that men with healthy eating habits had fewer wrinkles. In the same study, women who ate more fruit had fewer wrinkles than those who ate more meat and snacks. 5

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Many superfoods, such as those on the following list, can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, thanks to their antioxidants and alkalizing action:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Artichoke</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Avocado</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">chia seeds</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamon</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Proteins</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ginger</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Miso</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Oatmeal</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salmon</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sardines</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">sweet potatoes</li></ul>Another 2022 study found that natural compounds such as phytosterols, triterpenes, and sterols contained in blueberries, red cabbage, kale, wine, cocoa, aromatic plants, and others contribute to the body's antioxidant defenses. These compounds have health-promoting effects as they are powerful antioxidants that fight oxidative free radical damage and slow down aging. 6

Proteins

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While proteins can contribute to a slight improvement in the appearance of the skin, the thin membrane that separates the protein from the shell is more effective.

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In a 2016 study, using a cream made with an egg membrane resulted in a significant reduction in wrinkle depth and increased collagen production, making skin smoother and more elastic.&nbsp;

Essential-oils

Essential oils 

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Applying small amounts of essential oils mixed with base oil to wrinkles can help reduce them. Often, essential oils are applied in specific combinations that heal the skin without causing irritation, as long as they are diluted with base oil.

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Base oils include:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">almond oil</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">fractionated coconut oil</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">argan oil</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">evening primrose oil</li></ul>Some essential oils that can counteract the appearance of wrinkles when used in different combinations with base oil are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Argan</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">sage</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">frankincense</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">geranium</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">grape seeds</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">jojoba</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">lavender</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">neroli</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">sandalwood</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">ylang ylang</li></ul>

Massage

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Many people benefit from massage to prevent and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. In fact, using a handheld facial massage device can help prevent wrinkles by increasing collagen and elastin production.

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A daily facial massage for 3 to 5 minutes, done with your fingers, can give the same effects on the skin. It can also reduce stress, a common cause of wrinkle formation. On the Internet there are many videos with guidelines for facial massage, even face yoga to improve the contour and oval of the face, tighten wrinkles and lines.

Topical-products-with-vitamin-C

Topical products with vitamin C 

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Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps create collagen in the skin. It can be found naturally in many fruits and vegetables, such as rose hips, chili peppers, citrus and cabbage.

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Applying a topical gel, serum, or other product containing vitamin C can help with fewer wrinkles and other signs of sun damage to the skin. As stated in one scientific publication, as one of the most powerful antioxidants in the skin, vitamin C has been shown to protect against photoaging, ultraviolet-induced immunosuppression, and photocarcinogenesis. It also has an anti-aging effect by increasing collagen synthesis, stabilizing collagen fibers, and reducing collagen degradation. 7

Minerals

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Like vitamins, minerals are trace elements that your body needs, but in smaller quantities. In the skin, minerals help filter sunlight, promote healing and prevent damage.

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Zinc and selenium are two minerals that are especially important for skin health. Using a topical cream containing zinc and selenium can block some of the ultraviolet rays, helping to protect the skin from sun damage that causes wrinkles.

Although unpleasant, wrinkles can be treated at home with some natural remedies. The best way to avoid wrinkles is to protect your skin from the sun daily in every season. Limit the amount of time you spend outside when it's sunny outside, apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis, hydrate the body,&nbsp; and apply antioxidants both internally and externally. Bad habits such as smoking and lack of sleep also affect the skin, so correcting them can slow down the aging process and the appearance of wrinkles.

How to Treat Wrinkles Naturally at home

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How to treat wrinkles naturally at home

Бетина Цветкова

What-is-Тhyme-(Thymus)

What is Тhyme (Thymus)

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Thymus [&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14334" target="_blank" data-ref="Thymus" rel="noopener">ref. 1] is</a> an herb whose small leaves grow in groups of thin stems. It is used to season any dishes, alone or as part of a mixture or bouquet of spices such as rosemary, sage and majorana. Suitable for any diet and very rarely considered an allergen, thyme can be consumed by anyone who wants to cook with fresh herbs and enjoy a fragrant dish. Thymus Vulgaris &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14543" target="_blank" data-ref="Thymus vulgaris" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; and lemon (citrus) thyme &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/21315" target="_blank" data-ref="Thymus citriodorus" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;are the varieties most commonly used in culinary.

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Health-benefits-provided-by-thyme

Health benefits provided by thyme 

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Thanks to its distinctive taste, thyme remains a major spice in the culinary to this day. But thyme can also boast a host of useful healing properties, which we will consider in the next row.

Thyme-for-acne

Thyme for acne 

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If you are tired of buying and trying medicines, creams, lotions and other acne products, thyme can help you. It is known for its antibacterial properties and can be used as an ingredient to combat acne.

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When thyme is soaked in alcohol for days or weeks, it turns into a solution known as tincture. A small study has found that thyme essential oil has antibacterial activity against P. acnes, the bacteria believed to cause acne. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/15/5/3200" target="_blank" data-ref="Activities of Ten Essential Oils towards Propionibacterium acnes and PC-3, A-549 and MCF-7 Cancer Cells" rel="noopener">[Ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;

Thyme-for-high-blood-pressure

Thyme for high blood pressure 

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Thymus linearis Benth. is a type of thyme found in Pakistan and Afghanistan. A 2014 study found that the extract was able to significantly reduce heart rate in rats with high blood pressure. He also managed to lower their cholesterol levels. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25272894/" target="_blank" data-ref="Pharmacological evaluation of antihypertensive effect of aerial parts of Thymus linearis benth - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp; However, it is necessary to do human studies to confirm these effects.&nbsp;

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Thyme-for-fighting-cough

Thyme for fighting cough

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Thyme essential oil, which is obtained from its leaves, is often used as a natural remedy for coughing. In an earlier study from 2006, a combination of thyme leaves and ivy helped relieve coughing and other symptoms of acute bronchitis.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-0031-1296767" target="_blank" data-ref="Thieme E-Journals - Arzneimittelforschung / Abstract" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

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A more recent animal study from 2018 found a combination of thyme and primrose extracts to reduce inflammation and the formation of micus. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1094553918300609" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[Ref. 7]</a>&nbsp;

Thyme-for-strong-immunity

Thyme for strong immunity 

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Thyme is full of beneficial nutrients, so it can contribute to some extent to ensuring the optimal daily amounts of:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vitamin A</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vitamin C</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Copper</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fiber</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Iron</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Manganese</li></ul>

Thyme is rich in plant phenols such as thymol and carvacol, which have a powerful antispasmodic effect. In addition, it contributes to counteracting acne, cough and high blood pressure. It suits dishes with potatoes, meat and can be combined with spices such as oregano, rosemary and others. Expect the sequel with the other impressive benefits of this aromatic spice.

12 Health Benefits of Thyme - Part 1

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Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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We are used to perceive the sun as a source of life and health, and this is true - thanks to it we have heat and light, and in our skin the exceptional <a href="/p/prouchvanie_vitamin_d_okazva_zashchita_srieshchu_ostri_riespiratorni_infiektsii_00b1b2da_7279_4584_98e8_9fa1a4395749" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">vitamin D</a> is synthesized.

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But unfortunately, there it also has a dark side. The sun is also a source of ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB), which cause the release of a large amount of free radicals into the skin, inflammation (known to us as sunburn) and the occurrence of mutations that can lead to one of the most insidious types of cancer - melanoma or skin cancer.

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Therefore, it is very important to protect ourselves from harmful rays on warm spring and summer days. It is a little known fact that clouds do not stop ultraviolet rays and therefore you can "sunburn" even on a cloudy summer day.

What-Types-of-Sunscreens-Are-There

What Types of Sunscreens Are There

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There are two types of sunscreen - ones that act on a chemical or physical basis.

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Physical protection is provided by zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These substances are harmless and rarely cause skin irritation. Therefore, they are very suitable for sensitive skin, for pregnant women and for children. They repel UV rays and act as a 'shade' over the skin. Their only drawback is that they leave a white film on the skin and on the clothes, especially when with a higher protection factor.

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Chemical sunscreens absorb ultraviolet rays instead of repelling them. These creams or sprays contain several different chemicals, because each one blocks only a certain small part of the spectrum of the rays, which is insufficient.

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Today, manufacturers use many different natural components to protect the skin from UV rays. These products contain a high level of natural UV absorbers, such as squalan, peptides and nucleotides, which have protected the skin of mammals for millions of years. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Potential_of_herbs_in_skin_protection_from_ultraviolet_radiation_22279374" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

Plants-That-Offer-Protection-Against-Harmful-Ultraviolet-Rays

Plants That Offer Protection Against Harmful Ultraviolet Rays

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Herbal extracts contain many compounds that together can provide sun protection to the skin. A herbal extract can exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, emollient, melanin-inhibiting, antimutagenic properties and more.

Green-Tea-and-Black-Tea-(Camellia-sinensis)

Green Tea and Black Tea (Camellia sinensis)

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Green and black tea contain tanins and catechines, which provide protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays both with external application of cool tea and when you drink it.

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They have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and sunscreen properties, and can reduce damage to DNA done by UV rays.

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 Green Tea: 9 Unexpected Health Benefits and How to Prepare It

Aloe-vera_1_0

The benefits of Aloe vera (or Aloe barbadensis) have been scientifically proven in all forms of burning, be it radiation, thermal or solar. It has a prophylactic effect if used before, during and after these skin-damaging events.

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The plant is used mainly because of its soothing and cooling effect. But it should be considered that the plant is useless if used in a concentration of less than 50% and it is recommended to use 100% to have a beneficial effect.

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Aloe vera is an extremely effective means of moisturizing and healing the skin.

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Walnut-(Juglans-regia)

Walnut (Juglans regia)

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Green shells of fresh walnuts contain the substance juglone. It reacts with keratin in the skin and forms sclerojuglone compounds, which give the characteristic brown color of the skin and have a sunscreen effect.

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It is mistakenly thought that the coloring comes from iodine in the husks of the walnut, but they are not rich in this substance, and the color is not due to it.

Rhatany-(Krameria-triandra)

Rhatany (Krameria triandra)

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It has been established that rhatany root extract, containing 15% neolignans, has a photoprotective and antioxidant effect and protects cells from the harmful effects of UVB rays. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Antioxidant_and_photoprotective_activity_of_a_lipophilic_extract_containing_neolignans_from_Krameria_triandra_roots_11914952" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>] The study conducted has shown that this extract has a better protective effect than EGCG in green tea.

Plant-Oils-With-Sunscreen-and-Regenerating-Properties

Plant Oils With Sunscreen and Regenerating Properties

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According to some studies, sesame oil blocks 30% of UV rays, while coconut, peanut, cotton and olive oil block about 20% of harmful rays.

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Other oils for which a beneficial effect for the skin after sun exposure has been found are:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Borage (Borago officinalis) - promotes skin regeneration;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) - also promotes the restoration of the skin and prevents its aging;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Avocado (Persea americana) - avocado oil is rich in vitamin E, β-carotene, vitamin D, proteins, lecithin and fatty acids, and these ingredients soothe and protect the skin;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) - is contained in many sunscreens that relieve sunburns by increasing blood flow in the capillaries, which leads more nutrients to damaged skin;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Red algae (Porphyra, Bangiales, Rhodophyta).</li>
</ul>

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All these plants and their extracts and oils can find good application in sunscreen. But to be sure of the quality of the protection offered, it is important to use products with a known sun protection factor (SPF), tailored to the needs of our skin (lighter skin needs a higher protection factor).

Q&amp;A

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What sunscreens to use during pregnancy?

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As mentioned, during pregnancy you should avoid sunscreens that offer chemical protection, especially those containing oxybenzone, which can cause rare birth defects in the fetus.

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Oxybenzone is an organic substance that turns harmful UV rays into heat that is released from the skin. According to a 2019 study, this substance can cause a rare disease in a baby called Hirschsprung's disease. It affects the large intestine. [<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0890623818305835" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.3</a>]

Q&amp;A_2_3

"Vitamins" for tanning - are they safe and what they contain?

Q&amp;A_2_4

Recently, pills (dietary supplements) have appeared on the market to accelerate and retain tan. They most often contain substances similar to beta carotene - a form of vitamin A, usually cantaxanthin. They may also contain lutein, beta carotene, lycopene and turmeric. These substances give the skin an orange color rather than a healthy bronze tan.

Q&amp;A_2_5

Cantaxanthin can stay in the body for too long - according to some data - between 2 and 7 years [<a href="https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/tanning-pills" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.4</a>], and in this period it may manifest its undesirable side effects. And they can be as follows:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Orange skin;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jaundice - yellow skin, yellow eyes;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liver damage;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rash and skin problems;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gastrointestinal problems;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Damage to eyes and vision, even loss of vision.</li>
</ul>

Q&amp;A_2_7

The use of these pills is inadvisable!

Herbs and plants that act as sunscreen

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 Herbs and plants that act as sunscreen

Rositsa Tashkova-Kacharova

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

primula vulgaris

12 Health Benefits of Thyme - Part 1

Herbs and plants that act as sunscreen

Find out which herbs are effective against menopause symptoms according to science

9 herbs that will help you relieve cough

Multiple sclerosis: 17 affordable herbs backed by science

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