Perrin’s Ultra Nurture -- Milder than Perrin’s Crème Complete, yet a highly enriched antioxidant moisturizing cream for face and body. Perrin’s Ultra-Nurture is a blend of oils, beeswax, organic cocoa butter, grape seed extract, n-acetyl cysteine (NAC), alpha lipoic acid, CoQ10 and vitamins A, C, D, E, & biotin formulated to feed and nourish extremely dry, damaged and/or aging skin. Use as often as needed to combat dry skin.
Click here to purchase
$22.99 2oz
Grapeseed Extract & Grapeseed Oil
The medicinal and nutritional value of grapes (
Vitis vinifera
) has been praised for since ancient times. Egyptians consumed this
fruit at least 6,000 years ago, and several ancient Greek philosophers
praised the healing power of grapes -- usually in the form of wine.
European folk healers developed an ointment from the sap of grapevines
to cure skin and eye diseases. Grape leaves were used to stop bleeding,
inflammation, and pain, such as the kind brought on by hemorrhoids.
Unripe grapes were used to treat sore throats and dried grapes
(raisins) were used to heal consumption, constipation, and thirst. The
round, ripe, sweet grapes, were used to treat a range of health
problems including cancer, cholera, smallpox, nausea, eye infections,
and skin, kidney, and liver diseases.
Researchers are now discovering that many of the health properties of
grapes may actually come from the seeds themselves.
Among other beneficial
effects, the active compounds in grape seed
are believed to have antioxidant properties. A recent study of
healthy volunteers found that supplementation with grape seed extract
substantially increased levels of antioxidants in the blood.
Antioxidants are substances that destroy free radicals -- damaging
compounds in the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA
(genetic material), and even cause cell death. Free radicals occur
naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet
light, radiation, smoke, certain prescription and non-prescription
drugs, and air pollution) can also increase the number of these
damaging particles. Free radicals are believed to contribute to the
aging process as well as the development of a number of health
problems, including heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants found in
grape seeds can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help
prevent some of the damage they cause. Some studies suggest that
grapeseed extract may be as much as 50 times more potent than vitamin C
or E in terms of antioxidant activity.
Some of the substances in grapeseed that are beneficial
Vitamin E, flavonoids,
linoleic acid, and compounds called
procyanidins (also known as condensed tannins, pycnogenols, and
oligomeric proanthocyanidins or OPCs) are highly concentrated in grape
seeds. These healthful compounds can also be found in lower
concentrations in the skin of the grape. Procyanidins are also found in
grape juice and wine, but in lower concentrations. Resveratrol is
another of grape's healthful compounds which are related to
procyanidins and found mainly in the skins. Resveratrol has gained much
popularity as an antioxidant supplement. Resveratrol has shown to have
anti-cancer activity. Resveratrol is a photoalexin produced natually by
several plants when
under attack by bacteria or fungi. Phytoalixins are antibacterial and
anti-fungal chemicals produced by chemical synthesis. Resveratrol is
found on the skin of grapes but also in the seeds. In laboratory
studies resveratrol has appeared to interfere with cancer cell growth
and division and causes some cancer cells to disintegrate at a faster
rate than they normally would. Resveratrol may block enzymes that
prolong the the sruvival of several cancer cell types including skin
cancer. As a result tumors may either stop growing or actually shrink
because many of the cancer cells die.
In some studies
injuries to skin may have healed better when grapeseed extract was
applied. Thorugh several possible effects that include promoting the
regrowth of connective tissues, grapeseed extract is believed to
encourage faster, stronger healing with less scarring.
Medicinal Uses and Indications
Today, health care professionals use standardized extracts of grape
seed to treat a range of health problems related to free radical
damage, including blood sugar regulation problems, heart disease, and
cancer. Studies in laboratories, animals, and people lend some support
to these uses.
Flavonoids found in red wine have been reported to protect the
heart. They may inhibit the oxidation of LDL ("bad") cholesterol. (LDL
oxidation which can lead to hardening of the arteries or
atherosclerosis). Studies have demonstrated a relationship between
flavonoid intake (from foods) and reduced risk of death from coronary
heart disease.
The Mediterranean diet is comprised of whole grains, fresh fruits
and vegetables, fish, olive oil, and moderate, daily wine consumption.
In a long-term study of 423 patients who suffered a heart attack, those
who followed a Mediterranean diet had a 50 - 70% lower risk of
recurrent heart disease compared with controls who received no special
dietary counseling. Some researchers believe that some of the
beneficial effects of the Mediterranean diet are due to flavonoids
found in red wine. (Another well-known theory along these lines is
called "The French Paradox." The belief is that drinking wine protects
those living in France from developing heart disease at as high a rate
as those living in the United States, despite the rich fatty foods they
eat.)
Others speculate that the healthful effects of moderate wine
consumption are due to its alcohol content and not its flavonoid
content. If the flavonoids are contributing to heart protection, then
grape seed extracts offer an important alternative to alcohol,
particularly given the down sides of drinking alcohol (see below). A
third concept is being proposed by a group of researchers who believe
that the beneficial effects of wine may be triggered by a complex
interaction of alcohol and flavonoids. As the controversy of which
ingredient in wine is the most important continues, both grape seed
extracts and red wine continue to be promoted for heart health. In
addition, several test tube and animal studies confirm that
antioxidants from grapes offer cardioprotection in their own right.
It is also important to note that the use of alcohol is not
advocated by the American Heart Association and other organizations
because of the potential for addiction and the other serious
repercussions, such as motor vehicle accidents and the development of
hypertension, liver disease, breast cancer, and weight gain. If you do
drink red wine, you should have no more than 2 glasses (20 g ethanol)
per day.
High cholesterol
A study of 40 people with high cholesterol assessed the effects of
grape seed extract, chromium, a combination of both, or placebo for 2
months. The combination of grape seed extract and chromium was more
effective than either substance alone or placebo in reducing total and
LDL ("bad") cholesterol.
A more recent study tested the effects of a patented grape seed
extract on lipid peroxidation (which aids in the formation of "bad"
cholesterol) in a group of heavy smokers. Twenty-four healthy male
smokers, (aged 50 years or greater) were given either placebo or 2
capsules (75 mg of a grape procyanidin extracts and
soy-phosphatidalcholine), twice daily for 4 weeks. "Bad" cholesterol
levels (low density lipoprotein or LDL) were lower in those taking the
grape seed supplement than those on placebo. The authors concluded that
grape seed extract may help prevent cholesterol oxidation and further
damage to the cardiovascular system in people who smoke.
Cancer
Studies have found that grape seed extracts may prevent the growth
of breast, stomach, colon, prostate, and lung cancer cells in the
laboratory. Grape seed extract may also be effective in preventing
damage to human liver cells caused by chemotherapy medications.
Antioxidants, such as grape seed extract, have been reported beneficial
in cancer prevention. Although grape seed has not been studied in
humans for its anticancer effects, the antioxidant properties of grape
seed are proven beneficial.
Other conditions
Health care professionals may recommend grape seed extract for a
variety of circulatory ailments (including varicose veins and chronic
venous insufficiency). Grape seed may also be used for other diseases
related to free radical damage (oxidation), including blood sugar
regulation and age-related macular degeneration, an eye disorder that
develops with age and can lead to blindness. Grape seed extract may
help improve night vision and photophobia (sensitivity to light) as
well.
Grape seed extract may also be helpful in those with asthma and
allergies. Several studies support the use of proanthocyanidins, such
as those found in grape seed, as a supplement for allergic conditions
(including airborne and food allergies).
Olive Oil
Here are some of the benefits of Olive Oil when taken internally.
Olive oil it is a
prime component of the Mediterranean Diet. The beneficial
health effects of olive oil are due to both its high content of monounsaturated
fatty acids and its high content of antioxidative
substances. Studies have shown that olive oil offers protection against
heart disease by controlling
LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels while raising HDL (the "good"
cholesterol) levels. (1-3) No other naturally produced oil has as large
an amount of monounsaturated as olive oil -mainly oleic acid.
Olive oil
is very well tolerated by the stomach. Olive oil's protective
function has a beneficial effect on ulcers and gastritis. Olive oil activates
the secretion of bile and pancreatic hormones much more naturally than
prescribed drugs.
Consequently, it lowers the incidence of gallstone
formation.
Topical Uses
For thousands of years olive oil has been used on the skin as a moistuizer and to soften skin.
Below is a 2005 study involving infants and diaper dermatitis in Dubai Medical Center.
Twelve infants suffering from diaper dermatitis were treated four times daily for 7 days with a mixture containing honey, olive oil and beeswax. The severity of erythema was evaluated on a five-point
scale. Three infants had severe erythema and ulceration, four had
moderate erythema, and five had moderate erythema with maceration. The
initial mean lesion score of 2.91±0.79 declined significantly
(p<0.05) to 2.0±0.98 (day 3), 1.25±0.96 (day 5) and 0.66±0.98 (day
7). Candida albicans was isolated initially from four patients, but from only two patients after treatment. This topocal treatment was safe and well-tolerated, and demonstrated clinical and mycological benefits in the treatment of diaper dermatitis. Another study found that a mixture of honey, beeswax and olive oil also inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus and Candida albicans isolated from human specimens.
Olive oil, honey, and beeswax are some of the main ingredients in our skin care products.
Castor oil--Topical Uses
Castor oil has been used therapeutically for hundreds of years, both
internally and externally. Applied topically, it has many beneficial
effects in a wide range of conditions. Almost 90% of its fatty acid
content consists of ricinoleic acid. Such a high concentration of this
unusual, unsaturated fatty acid is thought to be responsible for castor
oil's healing abilities.
Ricinoleic acid has been shown to be effective in preventing the growth
of numerous species of viruses, bacteria, yeasts and molds. (J Am Oil
Chem Soc 61;37.323-325.) One
study has found that castor oil decreased pain more than ultrasound gel
or Vaseline during extracorporeal shock wave application.
Beeswax
We use beeswax instead of petroleum because it
contains “wax esthers” that also exist in human skin. It is a natural
hydrating agent that increases essential moisture in the skin. Beeswax
has a very low irritation potential and promotes healing and softening
of skin and is an antiseptic. Historically, Beeswax was used in Greece to treat
abscesses, by the Assyrians to heal wounds, and by
the Egyptians for mummification. Numerous scientific tests have
been conducted with a variety of bacteria, fungi, viruses and
other microorganisms. A study recently found that a mixture of honey, beeswax and olive oil inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans isolated from human specimens.
Pure Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has been used since ancient times
because of its benefits for dry and cracked skin, burns, blisters,
frostbite, insect bites, and allergic reactions. Many ancient works, including the Bible, refer to the use of aloe. One
of the first documented users of aloe vera was Cleopatra. She is said to have used the gel on her skin as
protection from the sun, and to have thought the gel helped to keep her
skin young-looking. In fact, the Egyptians may have used aloe vera in
their embalming of bodies, among other uses. In the 10th Century, the Europeans were introduced, where it became an important ingredient in many herbal medicines. By the 16th Century, aloe arrived in the West Indies, where still today it is grown and harvested. Today,
the gel found in the leaves is used for soothing minor burns, wounds,
and various skin conditions like eczema and ringworm. The use of this
herbal medicine was popularized in the 1950's in many Western
Countries. The gel's effect is nearly immediate, plus it also applies a
layer over wounds that is said to reduce the chance of any infection.
Some studies suggest that aloe vera has anti-viral and antibacterial properties. In one study aloe was mixed with the following viruses: herpes, chickenpox, rabies,
and flu. Aloe killed these viruses in 15 minutes. Electron microscopic
exam demonstrated that the structures surrounding the viruses were torn
apart, thus showing how aloe kills certain viruses in vitro. Dermatologists
have shown considerable interest in aloe vera due to its antimicrobial
and antibacterial properties. In in vitro studies, marked
zones of inhibition (bacteriostatic activity) were shown for
Staphylococcus aureus 209, E. coli, Streptococcus pyogenes,
Coryenbacterium xerose, Shigella paradysenteriae, Salmonella
typhosa, Salmonella schotimuelleri, and Salmonella paratyphi.
Vegetable Glycerin
Vegetable glycerin is a skin-friendly humectant
that attracts water into the skin as well as a binding agent that
occurs naturally in vegetables. It is anti-bacterial and works to make
the skin supple while fighting dryness and scaling. It is invaluable as a natural source ingredient with emollient like
properties which can soften and soothe the skin and it assists the
outer epidermis in retaining moisture. It is also a natural preservative.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that research has shown to have a variety
of benefits for the skin. Studies have shown vitamin E may help
decrease the effects if psoriasis and erythema, in the reduction of
stretch marks, in the reduction of scarring from wounds, and it may
help to reduce the risk of skin cancer. A study from Duke University
concluded that "Appreciable photoprotection can be obtained from the
combination of topical vitamins C and E. We suggest that these natural
products may protect against skin cancer and photoaging".
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Recent
studies suggest that topical application of alpha lipoic acid may be
effective against wrinkles and scars. If further studies corroborate
skin benefits of lipoic acid, it may become one of the mainstays of
today's anti-aging skin care. In fact, lipoic acid will be especially
welcome in the family of proven wrinkle fighters because it is less
irritating than tretinoin (Retin A, Renova) and hydroxy acids.
Therefore it can be used in delicate and wrinkle prone area around the
eyes.
Alpha lipoic acid is
a powerful antioxidant by itself but it also recycles vitamin C and
vitamin E. It can restore the antioxidant properties of these vitamins
after they have neutralized free redicals.When taken internally alpha
lipoic acid has shown time and again
in clinical trials to be successful for protecting cells from
free-radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules caused from
normal situations like metabolism to unhealthy activities like smoking,
and are a major culprit of wrinkling and the loss of firmness
associated with normal aging. Alpha lipoic acid could also come to play
an important role in the prevention and treatment of chronic
degenerative diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease
because it is known as a metabolic antioxidant. Without alpha lipoic
acid cells cannot use sugar to produce energy.
N-Acetyl-Cysteine
N-Acetyl Cysteine (or NAC)- NAC is a sulfur containing amino acid that
is needed to produce the free radical fighter glutathione and maintain
it at adequate levels in cells. It helps to detoxify the body of
chemicals and other poisons and slows the aging process. Studies have
shown that NAC can play a role in the reduction of cancer cells.
Vitamin A
The
body uses vitamin A for maintenance of healthy skin, good vision
and a robust immune system. It is also a free radical fighting
antioxidant and therefore is anti-aging. Vitamin A is a carotenoid
which is a class of photochemicals that is a fat soluable pigment found
in yellow, red, green, and orange vegetables and fruits. Carotenoids
act as anticancer agents. Alpha lipoic acid, vitamin E, and vitamin C,
help conserve carotenoids in tissue. Research done by Fisher et
al in 1998 at the University of Michigan Medical School suggests that
higher levels of vitamin A within the skin may prove to have therapeutic
and anti-aging value immediately following UV (sun) exposure.
Vitamin A stimulates the removal and replacement of damaged skin components.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D can help control the proliferation of skin cells that lead to
psoriatic lesions. Vitamin D deficiency may lead to skin malignancies
(skin cancer). Topically applied Vitamin D may reduce DNA damage in
skin that leads to skin cancer.
Biotin
Biotin
is also know an as vitiamn H. It is needed for healthy skin, hair, and
nails. It can be found in many hair care products. Biotin aids in
cell growth, in fatty acid production, in the maetbolism of
carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. In infants, a condition called
seborrheic dermatitis, or craddle cap which consists of a dry and flaky
scalp may be the result of a deficiency of biotin.
---The information provided on this website should not be used during
any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any
medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted
for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. We are only relaying information gathered from various sources and various reports and various scientific studies.
Information may have errors or be outdated. Some information is from
historical sources or represents opinions of the author. It is for
research purposes only. The information is "AS IS", "WITH ALL FAULTS".
User assumes all risk of use, damage, or injury.
You agree that we have no liability for any damages. We are not liable
for any consequential, incidental, indirect, or special damages. None of
the products sold on this website have been evaluated by the Food and
Drug Administration. None of the products sold on this website are
meant to cure, prevent, or diagnose any disease. Discontinue use of
any product on this website if irritation occurs. We do not suggest
anyone use these products instead of seeing a liscensed medical
professional.
