Why Invisalign® is one of the best things to happen to self-care
Why Invisalign® is one of the best things to happen to self-care

This is how to make 2023 the year you get the smile of your dreams.

A stunning set of pearly whites can help you make a great first impression, sell an important pitch, impress old friends, and so on. But most importantly, confidence in your smile—and knowing your oral health is in great shape—helps put you at ease. But let’s be real: Braces are just not the move these days.

It’s 2023, and that calls for a modern orthodontic solution: Invisalign aligners, a.k.a. the #1 doctor-recommended clear aligner brand.1


Invisalign treatment improves your smile’s look
and health

Most people want to straighten their teeth for cosmetic reasons, but having straight teeth also comes with a lot of health benefits.

Without hard-to-reach spaces between crowded teeth, straight teeth are easier to clean. Regularly removing debris from your teeth and gums lowers the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease, and it leaves you with fresher breath and less gum and tooth pain.

Misaligned teeth also affect your bite, which can strain your jaw joints, and jaw pain can radiate out to your ears, eyes, and head. In short, straight teeth = happy jaw.


Invisalign aligners let you eat and drink anything you want

Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are clear appliances that go over your teeth, which means you can remove them whenever you need to. Just stash your aligners in an Invisalign aligner case, and you’re good to go.


Invisalign aligners are faster than braces2

In many cases, Invisalign treatment works faster (and are less painful3) than braces. Additionally, because Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible appliances, you can watch your new smile—and your confidence—develop, even during treatment.


Invisalign aligners can treat simple to complex cases

Want to fix a tiny bit of crowding? Done. Looking to close a gap between two teeth? Totally doable. Need to treat a complex bite misalignment? Also treatable. Invisalign aligners are made from high-quality SmartTrack™ material and designed using advanced technology like 3D mapping, creating aligners that are bespoke for each individual patient’s needs.

The only standardized element on Invisalign aligners is the little Invisalign logo toward the back of the aligner, reminding you that your smile is in great hands.


So how much does Invisalign treatment cost?

The cost depends on the complexity of your case and how many aligners you’ll need. Talk to an Invisalign provider to get a quote, and keep in mind that Invisalign treatment is FSA/HSA-eligible, and can be paid for in part by insurance and/or using a to pay-over-time financing option.

Ready to make 2023 a happy YOU year with Invisalign treatment? Let’s get started.

 

Since 1997, Align Technology has been a pioneer in orthodontic med-tech, providing more than 14 million people with beautiful, healthy smiles. This article was paid for and written by Align Technology, the maker of Invisalign clear aligners.

1 Based on a global survey of 1,786 doctors (dentists and orthodontists who use clear aligners) by IQVIA in NA, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC. Data on File at Align Technology, as of June 30, 2022.
2Gu, J et al. Evaluation of Invisalign treatment effectiveness and efficiency compared with conventional fixed appliances using the Peer Assessment Rating index. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop February 2017;151:259-66
3In a pain score of 1-9, 1 being extremely painful and 9 not at all painful, Invisalign U.S. teenager patients (Qty:73) rated pain score of 6.1 vs U.S. traditional metal braces teenager patients (Qty: 76) rated pain score of 5.1. In a study by Miller et al, with adults measuring pain in the first week of treatment. Kevin Miller et al. “A comparison of treatment impacts between Invisalign aligner and fixed appliance therapy during the first week of treatment.” American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Volume 131, Issue 3, pp. 302. e1-302.e9, March 2007.

 

 

This is why Invisalign® is one of the best things to happen to self-care
This is why Invisalign® is one of the best things to happen to self-care

What’s the first thing you notice when you meet someone new? (Okay, “eyes” people, we get it, you’re a romantic.) The answer is almost always someone’s smile.

A stunning set of pearly whites can help you make a great first impression, sell an important pitch, impress old friends—the list goes on. But most importantly, confidence in your smile can help put you at ease: It’s a pretty incredible feeling knowing your oral health is in tip-top shape and loving what you see when you look in the mirror, even when you have a bad hair day.

But let’s be real: Braces are just not the move these days. For several reasons.

It’s 2023, and that calls for a modern orthodontic solution: Invisalign aligners, a.k.a. the #1 doctor-recommended clear aligner brand.1

 

Invisalign treatment improves your smile’s look and health

Most people want to straighten their teeth for cosmetic reasons (totally valid), but what many people don’t know is that having straight teeth also comes with a lot of health benefits.

Without hard-to-reach nooks and crannies between crowded teeth, straight teeth are easier to clean. Regularly removing food particles, plaque, and bacteria from your teeth and gums lowers the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease, and it leaves you with fresher breath and less gum and tooth pain.

Straight, aligned teeth also lower the risk of jaw pain. Misaligned teeth affect your bite, which can strain your jaw joints, and jaw pain can radiate out to your ears, eyes, and head. In short, straight teeth = happy jaw.


Invisalign aligners let you eat and drink anything you want

Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are clear aligners that go over your teeth, which means you can remove them whenever you need to. Just stash your aligners in a sleek, portable Invisalign aligner case (there are a ton of colors and designs to choose from), and you’re good to go.

So no need to search, “Can I eat [insert favorite don’t-eat-with-braces food here] with Invisalign?” The answer is almost always a resounding yes!


Invisalign aligners are faster than braces2

In many cases, Invisalign treatment works faster (and are less painful3) than braces. Additionally, Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible appliances, so you can see your new smile develop as you go, and you won’t feel even more insecure about your smile during treatment.


Invisalign aligners can treat simple to complex cases

Want to fix a tiny bit of crowding? Done. Looking to close a gap between two teeth? Totally doable. Need to treat a complex bite misalignment? Also treatable.

Invisalign aligners are made from high-quality SmartTrack™ material and designed using advanced technology like 3D mapping, creating aligners that are bespoke for each individual patient’s needs. That should be music to your ears, because your smile certainly deserves more than a one-size-fits-all kind of treatment.

The only standardized element on Invisalign aligners is the little Invisalign logo toward the back of the aligner, reminding you that your smile is in great hands.


How to get Invisalign treatment

Okay, so you want to kick off 2023 by transforming your smile with the #1 doctor-recommended aligner brand on the market. Great! Now what?

1. Meet with your Invisalign doctor to get scanned and map out a custom treatment plan.
2. Pick up your aligners from your doctor’s office.
3. Wear your brand new aligners, track your progress, graduate to your next set of aligners when your doctor gives you the OK, and watch your smile transform!


How much does Invisalign treatment cost?

The cost depends on how complex your case is and how many aligners you’ll need. Talk to an Invisalign provider to get a quote, and keep in mind that Invisalign treatment is FSA/HSA-eligible (so use those dollars before the end of the year!), can be paid for in part by insurance and/or using a to pay-over-time financing option spread out the expense.


Why should I get Invisalign in 2023?

Honestly, it’s been a tough few years for pretty much everyone, but starting a new year with an investment in your health and your confidence can do a whole lot of good. When you invest in yourself with Invisalign treatment, you’re making a commitment to focus on self-care this year, and over time, that can make a huge difference in your self-esteem. Essentially, every day when you put in your aligners, you’re saying, “I am worth the effort.” And you are.

Ready to make 2023 a happy YOU year? Let’s get started.

 

Since 1997, Align Technology has been a pioneer in orthodontic med-tech, providing more than 14 million people with beautiful, healthy smiles. This article was paid for and written by Align Technology, the maker of Invisalign clear aligners.

1 Based on a global survey of 1,786 doctors (dentists and orthodontists who use clear aligners) by IQVIA in NA, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC. Data on File at Align Technology, as of June 30, 2022.
2Gu, J et al. Evaluation of Invisalign treatment effectiveness and efficiency compared with conventional fixed appliances using the Peer Assessment Rating index. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop February 2017;151:259-66
3In a pain score of 1-9, 1 being extremely painful and 9 not at all painful, Invisalign U.S. teenager patients (Qty:73) rated pain score of 6.1 vs U.S. traditional metal braces teenager patients (Qty: 76) rated pain score of 5.1. In a study by Miller et al, with adults measuring pain in the first week of treatment. Kevin Miller et al. “A comparison of treatment impacts between Invisalign aligner and fixed appliance therapy during the first week of treatment.” American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Volume 131, Issue 3, pp. 302. e1-302.e9, March 2007.


Ingredients you should look for in a lipstick
Ingredients you should look for in a lipstick

While we all love to wear lipstick to make our lips look appealing, most of us are clueless about what lipsticks are made from. A lipstick is typically made from three basic ingredients: wax, pigment, and oil. Wax gives it the shape, pigment adds color and oil like lanolin, petrolatum, jojoba, mineral, and castor adds moisture. Oil changes the intensity of the formula as more oil gives a sheer look while less oil gives a richer pigment.

What are the ingredients you should look for in your lipstick?
Lipstick ingredients will differ from one manufacturing brand to another. However, there are some elements in common. All lipstick manufacturers want to come up with products that will look great and are good to use. But, at the same time, regardless of how well a product has been marketed and packaged, unless it helps keep your lips moisturized, you should not buy it.

Checking for ingredients is the right way to buy a lipstick. This is because there are many brands which use harmful chemicals, and these can not only do harm to your lips; they may even turn out to be allergic. You need to look out for substances like retinyl palmitate, tocopheryl acetate, and parabens when you buy lipsticks.

  • Wax is one of the key ingredients in any lipstick as it will bring various ingredients together by working as a base for your lipstick. It helps keep the lips soft and adds gloss. Most brands are known to use beeswax, but there are also some manufacturing vegan lipsticks that use Candelilla wax derived from plants.
  • Another important factor in the making of lipsticks is pigmentation. Generally, buyers look for products that can give vibrant colors in just a couple of swipes. Such pigments may be made from chemical dyes or natural ingredients. Ensure buying products that use natural colors for pigmentation.
  • Oils and fats are other ingredients which you must consider when you buy a lipstick. Olive oil, cocoa butter, lanolin, and mineral oil are very popular and these keep the lipstick more moisturizing.
  • You cannot use lipsticks for long because their ingredients will degrade with time. So, you need the right mix of preservatives to make sure they last long.
  • Alcohol is another important lipstick ingredient which acts as a solvent for oils and wax.
  • Pigments, waxes, and oils often give out their own smells and this is why manufacturers will add some fragrance to make the product more appealing to you.

Depending on the type of look you want, manufacturers will tweak the ingredient ratios. For example, to make a matte lipstick they will not add any fats or oil, but to make a glossy one, they will use a high degree of oil. You need to be careful of non-organic castor seed oils which may have agricultural residue and are not good for your lips. Even preservatives can be tricky; while they may keep the product fresh, they can cause irritation and allergies. Usually, most lipsticks have very less water and zero preservatives. You must ensure there are no terpenes, parabens, benzyl benzoate, BHT, and phenoxyethanol.

6 ingredients you should look out for in a lipstick
6 ingredients you should look out for in a lipstick

Makeup, in general, enhances the beauty of individuals using it and a lipstick is a makeup staple. It enhances the shape and color of the wearer and can instantly brighten up an outfit. Lipsticks are available in a variety of colors and shades and going from a light pink shade to a bold red at night can transform one from collected working professional to ready-for-a-night-out. But, for a product as widely used as lipsticks, how many of us have ever actually paid attention to its ingredients? Cosmetics can wreak havoc on the skin if one is not careful, and it is very important to choose lipsticks made of ingredients that do not harm your health. Here are 6 ingredients to look for in a lipstick so you can know which ones to not pick up.

Ingredients to avoid while hunting for your favorite lipstick

  • Parabens: Parabens present in lipsticks can lead to toxicity and may also lead to cancer. It can result in skin irritation and has also shown signs of disturbing the endocrine system. The next point talks about one type of paraben widely found in lipsticks.
  • Methylparaben: Although methylparaben is widely used in cosmetics because of its preservative properties, high levels of this ingredient can cause harm to the endocrine system, as it gets quickly absorbed through the skin. So one should avoid buying lipsticks with methylparaben in them and opt for natural alternatives like essential oils, vitamins, and herbal extracts.
  • Lead: Lead, a neurotoxin, can lead to serious health issues and is found in a number of lipsticks. It is not an actual ingredient but it makes it way through pigments used during the manufacturing process. Neurotoxin present in lead can damage the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and cause cognitive dysfunction. It can also cause harm to the reproductive organs. Regular exposure to lipsticks with lead and can be extremely hazardous to your health. Children should not be allowed to play with lipsticks as they are more vulnerable to the effects of lead and can cause damage to their overall development.
  • Dyes: The different colors and shades obtained in lipsticks are through the use of dyes. Dyes are a by-product of coal tar which is commonly used in synthetic colors. This ingredient found in lipsticks can cause skin irritation and is also associated with the causes of cancer. So it is better to opt for natural or organic lipsticks with neutral shades.
  • Retinyl palmitate: A synthetic form of vitamin A, retinyl palmitate works as an antioxidant in lipsticks. Women who are pregnant are advised to avoid the use of this ingredient as it might cause harmful effects. Retinyl palmitate found in lipsticks can be easily absorbed in the skin and is linked to cancer-causing symptoms and reproductive problems.
  • Tocopheryl acetate: Although this ingredient used in lipsticks contains vitamin E, it can cause itching and burning sensation on the skin. One of the 6 ingredients to look out for in a lipstick, regular use of lip products with this can even cause dizziness, headaches, nausea.

6 ingredients to watch out for in lipsticks
6 ingredients to watch out for in lipsticks

A woman who loves beauty products and most of all lipsticks, can never have enough of them. Lipsticks are an important part of a female’s makeup routine.

Lipsticks contain waxes like candelilla, ozokerite, beeswax, and carnauba wax which has a high melting point and these waxes are used to strengthen the lipstick. Various fats and oils are also used to make lipsticks and these oils can be petrolatum, lanolin, cocoa butter, mineral oil, and olive oil. Most women are not aware that their favorite lipstick may contain harmful chemicals which they would otherwise never use on their skin.

If your lipstick leaves an oily residue it may be due to the use of tallow or animal fat taken from dead animal carcasses. Tallow is used by many cosmetics companies as it saves them a lot of money. Make sure your lipstick isn’t made of any of these – myristic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, lard, suet, hydrolyzed collagen, palmitic acid, oleyl stearate, oleyl oleate, oleic acid, stearic acid or any ingredient with the word tallow.

Your lipstick also contains heavy metals like industrial grade minerals which can lead to cancer, harm your reproductive system, and lead to organ toxicity. These won’t be listed in the ingredients of your lipstick but anything which begins with green, violet, yellow, blue, and red, indicates the use of heavy metals. Heavy metals are mostly never listed but include antimony, chromium, aluminum, cadmium, arsenic, nickel, iron, and lead.

Here are six ingredients to look out for in your lipstick.

Perfume
The use of perfumes is regulated under the trade secret law. The company does not reveal the ingredients. FDA cannot decipher the meanings of ingredients which are used, but perfumes can result in skin rashes, respiratory issues, and migraine.

Methylparaben
This is used as a preservative in many beauty products. This ingredient is banned in European Union countries as it is linked to cancer and it disturbs the endocrine system. It has been marked as highly hazardous.

Petroleum
This is found in cream-based lipsticks and lip glosses. It tends to causes rashes, acne, and clogs the pores. While buying a lipstick, look for ingredients like petroleum distillates, paraffin, and mineral oils. These ingredients repel water and clog the pores causing them to suffocate.

Lead
Elevated lead in the bloodstream is known to cause miscarriages and seizures. If children are exposed to it, it can cause permanent brain damage. Make sure your lipstick does not have any lead in it.

Parabens
This is a common preservative in cosmetics and costs almost nothing. Parabens are linked to many diseases. It has been found in the tissue of breast tumors and it is found to be carcinogenic when taken in high doses; it is also linked to allergic reactions. Matte lipsticks also contain parabens.

Tocopheryl acetate
This is also called vitamin E acetate. It is used in almost all beauty products like primers, foundations, and lipsticks. This ingredient causes toxic reactions like burning, itching, skin blisters, hives, and scaling. It can also cause weakness, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, and tiredness.

Popular Disposable Razors for Sensitive Skin
Popular Disposable Razors for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is a commonly observed phenomenon. According to a medical study, around 45% of men said that they had a sensitive skin. A sensitive skin may develop due to clinical conditions, careless skin care or even due to the way of shaving. A sensitive skin may develop skin bumps, pimples, cuts or rashes upon application of a skin lotion or cream or during shaving. Shaving is a difficult task to perform on a sensitive skin. Moreover, chemicals present in the shaving cream causes irritation. It is advisable to look for blades which have a lubricative mechanism and contain inflammation-fighting constituents such as vitamins. Luckily, to overcome all these problems, there are several disposable razors available for sensitive skin care. Some of the best options of premium disposable razor for sensitive skin include:

  • Gillette Mach3 Men’s Disposable Razor
    It is one of the best disposable razors, specially designed for sensitive skin. It is easy to use and the razors are specially designed to reduce skin irritation. The blades are coated with a diamond coating that provides a sharp and close shave. These blades can be easily washed too.
  • Schick ST2 for Men Sensitive Skin Disposable Razor
    This razor has a special grip for effective handling and it provides a closer shave without causing skin irritation. A special tab helps in cleaning the blades to increase the razor life. The razor is definitely a great choice for trimming purposes.
  • Gillette Custom Plus Disposable Razor
    Due to its lubricating strips on the blades, this razor is a good choice for a close shave. The razor head can easily reach to places like below the chin. A soft grip helps in comfortable handling of the razor.
  • BIC Metal Disposable Men’s Shaving Razors
    These razors are made up of stainless steel and possess a fixed and narrow head which is suitable for use in sensitive areas or face. A grooved handle provides a strong grip.
  • Schick Hydro 5 Razor for Men with Flip Trimmer
    The Hydro 5 razor comes with a hydrating gel reservoir which gives an instant lubrication that reduces the friction up to 40%. Moreover, the novel design allows lubrication of larger skin surface. The hydrations provided by the lubricant last for at least one-hour after shave.
  • Gillette Fusion5 Proglide Men’s Razor
    The Fusion5 comes with a novel FlexBall technology. This technology allows the blades to smoothly follow the face contours. The blades are sharp and provide a smooth and precise shave. However, the razor is a bit expensive.
  • Bump Fighter Disposable Razor
    This razor is especially helpful for men dealing with shaving challenges such as the presence of bumps and skin irritation owing to ingrown hairs. The ‘bump guard’ technology of this razor prevents the blade from directly impacting the skin. However, the razor does not have lubricating strips.
  • Schick Hydro Silk
    It is one of the best premium disposable razors for sensitive skin available in the market. The five “curve-sensing” blades touch the skin with every stroke and a moisturizing serum helps in the rehydration of the skin. The moisturizer contains vitamin E and aloe vera that has a soothing effect on the skin. The blades are designed in such a way that even pressure is applied during shaving.
  • Gillette Sensor 3 Smooth Shave Disposable Razor
    Sensor 3 is a triple blade premium disposable razor for sensitive skin. It has one pivoting head for effective control of the razor. This razor also comes with an anti-slip rubber which prevents the slippage of the razor. Sensor 3 razor has lubrastrip which contains aloe vera. This provides a soothing and smooth shave.
  • Schick Men’s Quattro Titanium Disposable Razor
    It is a four blade premium disposable razor for sensitive skin with a pivoting head. It provides a closer and quicker shave as compared to other razors.
  • Schick Xtreme 3 Eco Disposable Razor
    The Xtreme3 is an environmental friendly triple blade premium disposable razor for sensitive skin. It is completely made up of recycled plastic. However, this is not a pocket-friendly option if you are looking for one.

A large number of men across the globe face problems during shave due to sensitive skin. Premium disposable razor refills are there in the market designed exclusively for the sensitive skin type. However, the final choice of selecting the razor depends on several factors such as cost, availability, and suitability to the skin. Thus, a few trials must be done prior to finalizing the best disposable razor.

8 Clinical-Strength Deodorants to Help Control Excessive Sweating
8 Clinical-Strength Deodorants to Help Control Excessive Sweating

Sweating is a natural process by which the body tries to regulate its temperature by emitting the excess heat in the form of sweat. Therefore, you need not feel bad about it and it’s actually healthy to sweat. However, some people have the tendency to sweat a lot when it comes to intensive workouts or when the body is in peak activity stage.

If you are among those people who go through a lot of sweating throughout the day, then at some point you would need to try and stop that with an effective approach. After a hectic schedule, taking a bath with cold water can help you feel refreshed, but that won’t help you to control your excess sweating. For that, you would need some of the best deodorants for excessive sweating. Listed below are some of the top ones that will not only help you control your body odor and sweat but are also clinically approved so that you don’t get rashes or allergies.

SweatBlock antiperspirant for men
This SweatBlock clinical strength antiperspirant can be the perfect choice for you if you suffer from excessive sweating. This antiperspirant will stay with you for a long time with just one application. Moreover, the company promises that there will be no signs of allergic skin reactions on applying this deodorant and the smell will stay for one week after its single application. You can definitely use this deodorant on intensive workout days as well as when you are outdoors.

Phoenix antiperspirant from AXE for men
This antiperspirant by AXE is one of the best deodorants for excessive sweating. It is specially made to keep you dry throughout the day. It comes with a strong musky scent and comes at an attractive price range too.

Cool Wave Endurance Antiperspirant Deo for men by Gillette
This antiperspirant deodorant from Gillette comes with a cool and refreshing scent that will give you an immediate, unique cooling effect. The company promises a 48-hour sweat protection feature. This deodorant is quite affordable and comes in a pack of two. Moreover, this body spray does not leave residue or marks on your clothes. With a single application of this antiperspirant, you can spend a whole day without worrying about sweat and odor.

Pit Boss Antiperspirant by Jack Black for men
This is also one of the best deodorants for excessive sweating uniquely designed by the popular actor, Jack Black. This deodorant is made from natural ingredients that will readily absorb the excess sweat to give you an odor-free day, and it does not have any harmful effects on your skin. With this deodorant, every man can have total control over their body odor; moreover, because of its manly scent, it is one of the popular choices.

ZeroSweat Antiperspirant for Women
ZeroSweat Antiperspirant for women exactly functions as per its name. This deodorant is perfect for women who sweat a lot during the day as it absorbs the excess sweat produced by the body. This deodorant comes in a small bottle and with a single application, it stays on your body and clothes for hours. It delivers the promise of seven-day sweat protection.

Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant for Women
This is one of the best deodorants for excessive sweating that not only keeps you fresh and dry all day long but also keeps your skin healthy because of its natural ingredients. This is the best antiperspirant for women with a sensitive skin. This deodorant comes with a 2-day sweat and odor protection promise and has a fresh feminine scent.

Arrid 24 Hour XX Dry Antiperspirant/Deodorant Solid for Women and Men
This deodorant is specially designed for those who indulge in intense sporty workouts. Unlike other antiperspirants, it does not promise a 7-day odor protection, but its scent is strong enough and will help you keep dry and fresh for a whole day. Moreover, it does not contain harsh chemicals like parabens, aluminum, or mineral oils that could cause allergic reactions.

Certain Dri Prescription Strength Clinical Roll-On
This clinically-tested sweat protection deodorant for women by Certain Dri is one of the best deodorants for excessive sweating that comes with an affordable pricing. Moreover, it is free from certain chemicals that are responsible for allergic skin reactions, so you don’t have to worry about skin problems that come with regular deodorants anymore. This deodorant can be the perfect choice for very busy days.

Whether you are a person who has to travel a lot or work outdoors mostly, or someone who loves getting involved in intense sports, or works out for long hours, the abovementioned clinical-strength deodorants will surely give you that pleasant and refreshing scent that will keep your body dry and fresh for a whole day easily. Plus, you won’t have to worry about allergic skin reactions anymore.