Many consumers have been taught that low-fats foods, such as lean meat, dairy products, yogurt and vegetables are the best foods to keep you healthy and prevent aging and skin wrinkles. But scientist now tell us that simply eating some salad or vegetables every now and then won’t do much. To understand which foods are the best and why, you need to understand how free radicals affect your skin health and increase the aging process.

Most longevity experts say that free radicals are the main cause of aging. Free radicals are oxygen molecules that have an ‘extra’ or free electron. This free electron makes the molecule unstable. It seeks another molecule so they can become stable. When the free radical bonds to another molecule it causes proteins and other essential molecules to not function as they should.  This reactive process sets up a chain reaction of which damages the body’s cells.

Recently, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and the USDA created a new food classification system that rates the antioxidant content of various food. This list is called ORAC, or Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity.

A quote from the ORAC report reads, “The development of various chronic and degenerative diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and neuronal degeneration such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease may be attributed, in part, to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has also been implicated in the process of aging. Although the human body has developed a number of systems to eliminate free radicals such as reactive oxygen species from the body, it is not 100% efficient.”

It is believed that the anti-oxidants found in certain foods can protect the body from the damage caused by these free radicals. High ORAC ratings means the food has high anti-oxidant potential and thus rates as a good Anti-aging food.

Here are some highlights from the USDA ORAC list:

Release 1 – November 2007. Values were reported for 277 food items.  Release 2 – May 2010. Values were added for 49 food items, including maple syrup, acai, and goji berries, for a total of 326 food items.

Cinnamon: 100 grams of ground cinnamon has a rating of 267,536, making it extremely high on the anti-aging and free-radical-blocking scale. This is why many longevity experts suggest sprinkling some cinnamon on your food or hot drinks.

BEANS: A half cup (dried beans) of small Red Beans has a score of 13727 , Red kidney beans 13259 , Pinto beans11864 and Black beans 4181.

FRUITS: Each ORAC number is for 1 cup. Wild blueberry1 13427; Cultivated blueberry 9019; Cranberry 8983,Blackberry 7701, Prunes (½ cup )7291 ; Raspberry 6058; Strawberry 5938; Red Delicious apple I whole) 5900 ; Granny Smith apple 5381 ; Sweet cherries (1 cup) 4873; Black plum 1 plum 4844 ; other plums have 4118 each and a Gala apple has a rating of 3903.

Artichoke hearts 1 cup, cooked ranked in at 7904. An ounce of Pecans scored 5095 and a single Russet potato cooked came in at 4649.

This list presupposes that the fruits and vegetables are fresh and that they pesticide free. Naturally organic foods and skincare choices  like anti-aging masks are best since organic foods and natural skin treatments have no toxic chemicals.

So, if you are concerned with aging skin and are interested in longevity, ensure that the food you put in your body does not have toxic chemicals and are high on the anti-oxidant list.

You can obtain the FDA complete ORAC listing at The FDA ORAC scale here:
http://www.ars.usda.gov/Services/docs.htm?docid=15866

Most dermatologist and skin experts recommend consistently following a daily skin care routine. This does not have to be complicated or time-consuming.  Your daily routine can be performed in as little as five to ten minutes.

Four Simple Steps

* Cleanse
* Tone / Treat
* Moisturize
* Protect

A typical skin care routine includes the following steps: washing/cleansing, toning / treating (optional depending on skin type), moisturizing and sun protection.

Optimize for your skin type
The steps of the basic routine should be adjusted to fit your skin type. Your skin type may change with the season, diet and age. Skin tends to be oilier in the summer and drier in the winter. Menopause often brings about a change from oily or normal to dry skin. Conversely, a shift from a low-fat diet to that rich in certain fats (particularly essential fatty acids) may turn dry skin to normal. Skin pigmentation affects the degree to which you need sun protection. While sun damages any skin, the damage is far less in dark-skinned people. Conversely, fair skinned people need to be particularly meticulous about sun protection by minimizing sun exposure, choosing an effective sunscreen and applying it frequently and consistently.

Depending on your skin type, you may want to use your routine once in the morning and again before you sleep. Those with dry and/or sensitive skin may do better with once a day washing/cleansing while moisturizing two or more times a day. Exfoliation, to remove excess oils and prevent acne or blackheads, is also recommended in some cases, but exercise caution as daily exfoliation may be excessive and can lead to chronic irritation. Exfoliation once or twice a week is usually sufficient. Younger skin, like that in your 20’s and 30’s will have a fast natural epidermal turnover may need little to no exfoliation.

Cleansing
Cleaning facial skin is even more important than cleaning your body. Your face, unlike your body, is exposed to elements all day long. Dirt, pollution and oil from hands all accumulate on the epidermal layer and can clog pores and cause acne eruptions or inflammation. Like all skin care products, the best cleanser for you will be determined by your skin type. If you suffer from oily or acne-prone skin, you may benefit from an oil-free gel cleanser or one containing salicylic acid. Mature or dry skin will do best with a cream cleanser to help retain moisture. Once your face and neck are cleansed, rinse with lukewarm water and pat your skin lightly with a towel.

Toning / Treating
Toning can consist of using a store-bought toner, astringent or simple Witch Hazel. Toning or treating will balance the ph level of the skin and remove any residual dirt or oil not picked up from your cleanser. For those over the age of thirty, adding a well-selected treatment or two with scientifically proven active ingredients can further improve your results. Treatment can mean anything from skin rejuvenation products, skin discoloration items and oil absorbing agents to applying medicines for acne or eczema. If you suffer from multiple skin conditions, select an initial treatment aimed at the broadest improvement and then fine tune things from there.
Be aware of applying products to un-cleansed skin as the penetration of active ingredients will be greatly reduced. If you cleanse, moisturize and then apply advanced products, the penetration of active ingredients may still be reduced because the moisturizer has blocked some the entryways.

Moisturize
Moisturizers are essential to keep skin cells plump and hydrated. Hydrated skin will show fewer lines, wrinkles and imperfections. Even if you have oily or acne prone skin, you may still need some hydration. Look for gel-based moisturizers or lightweight formulations. Many medications and treatments appropriate for dealing with acne or oily skin automatically are drying. Don’t make the mistake of drastically drying out your skin until it is a challenge to repair. During the fall and winter months your skin may be even more vulnerable thanks to reduced humidity from indoor heating and excessive hot showers or baths.

Apply your moisturizer when your skin is clean, warm and still slightly moist. Since many active treatments have moisturizing ingredients, you may be able to skip a separate moisturizer. If you feel that you need additional moisturizing, wait a few minutes for the active treatments to absorb, and then apply your favorite moisturizer over it.

Protect
Wearing sunscreen or sun protection EVERY DAY is the proven best way to block harmful UV rays and diminish formation of wrinkles, skin discolorations and to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. A good UVA+UVB sunscreen should be applied on top of your moisturizer or other treatments as a final step of your routine whenever sun exposure is expected.  Sunscreens come in a wide variety of bases, from those meant for oily skin to hydrating versions. Those with sensitivities to chemical sunscreens can choose natural Zinc Oxide formulations. Protective clothing can also now be improved thanks to new laundry treatments with UV protectant for widespread areas of the body mistakenly thought to be protected by your clothing.

Some skin care products or cosmetics contain added UV blockers, but they may not be enough, using a separate, specially formulated sunscreen is proven to be more effective.

And that’s it! Cleanse, Tone / Treat, Moisturize and Protect. Use these four simple steps to achieve beautiful, healthy skin. For a lifetime of skin care that can help leave your skin looking its very best, see your healthy skin as a clean canvass upon which to paint any improvements.

Author: Rachelle Dupree
Vivoderm Natural Skincare

There is however no need for you to panic. In order to cater to these skin aging problems, the market provides various anti-aging skin care solutions that are quite effective in ensuring the suppleness and thickness of your skin. Homemade anti-aging masks are extremely beneficial for natural invigorating nourishment of your skin. Different fruits and milk-based anti-aging masks can be prepared using the natural ingredients that are quite effective in making your skin healthy and beautiful. Lemon juice, honey, yogurt, rose water, orange juice, peach extracts, almond oil, milk and lavender oil can be used to prepare you own anti-aging mask treatment.

Herbal anti-aging masks are also great that tend to be suitable for all skin types. These facial masks are prepared using plant-based ingredients that tend to ensure natural skin care. Anti-aging clay masks are quite effective that renders oil-free skin and unclog the pores. These natural anti-aging masks help you to get rid of your blackheads and provide various minerals and vitamins thereby ensuring complete rejuvenation of your skin. Moreover these facial masks ensure to get back the lost luster thereby providing you a beautiful and glowing skin.

Anti-aging facial masks are a great way to get of wrinkles and other skin-related problems that tend to bother you. However, regular cleansing followed by toning and moisturizing of the skin would ensure your skin to be healthy and well nourished.

If your motivation for good skin care is to look more youthful, than taking proper care of your skin will have the added bonus of creating a healthier body.  If you wish to reduce acne breakouts, then a slight modification of diet might be necessary as well. Whatever your desired skin result, your overall health will be much improved by following a few easy steps.

Your everyday decisions shape how healthy you and your skin will be - it is that simple.

Here are some simple tips for basic skin care and a healthier body:

• Keep your skin clean so that it can breathe
• Give your skin plenty of moisture to keep it looking young and healthy
• Feed the skin key nutrients that it requires to rejuvenate and repair itself repeatedly
• Rid only the top layer of dead cells to promote rapid birth of new cells
• Protect against outside elements to prevent deterioration and/or damage
• Live a healthy life style

Skin is a living, breathing organ that regularly moves thousands of layers of skin cells each day. The skin is comprised of three layers - the subcutaneous layer  - where fat cells are produced;  the dermis - where you can find sweat glands, nerve endings and hair follicles, and the epidermis - the final outer layer of skin where pores and oil glands reside.

When new skin cells are ready, they start moving toward the epidermis. This trip takes about 2 weeks to a month. As newer cells continue to move up, older cells near the top die and rise to the surface of your skin.  So what you really see on the surface of your skin are dead skin cells.

Keeping your skin properly cleansed and moisturized is vital to healthy, glowing skin. It is the basic of all skincare routines. Be sure to choose a cleanser and moisturizer best suited for your skin type. If you aren’t sure what that is, ask your friendly pharmacist or dermatologist for help. You skin can be acne-prone, oily, dry or a combination of the two. There are hundreds of specialized products out there to suite every skin type.

Feeding the skin means feeding the body. A good skin care regime will always include a healthy diet full of nutrients and vitamins. Whole, organic foods are best if you can get them. Leafy greens, fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains will keep your skin in top shape. Try to avoid junk foods or processed foods as much as possible. These foods rarely contain any real nutrition and can actually overload your skin with sugars and toxins to process.

A weekly light-exfoliation or facial scrub will do much to slough off the top layer of dead skin cells and reveal newer, healthier skin underneath. You can use a soft facial brush found in cosmetic counters, a rough washcloth or a light scrubbing pad as well as pre-packaged facial scrubs or facial masks.

Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: While some sun exposure is necessary to produce vital Vitamin D, excessive sun exposure is very harmful to the skin. Without protection from the sun’s rays, more than 10 minutes of exposure each day can cause freckles, age spots, and spider veins on the face, rough and leathery skin, loose skin, a blotchy complexion and even skin cancer. If you must go outside, be sure to wear a good UV-blocking sunscreen like Zinc Oxide or wear protective clothing such as hats and long sleeves.

LIVE A HEALTHY LIFE STYLE

Although you have no control over intrinsic factors of aging, such as genetics, you are largely in control of the extrinsic factors.  This is where you can make life-altering choices.

Don’t Smoke. You cannot have truly vital skin if you smoke, period.  Smoking depletes your body of essential vitamins, which means you can’t have a healthy body either. If you do smoke, try your best to quit. Plenty has been reported and verified on the dangers of smoking and there are now numerous programs, patches and nicotine replacement therapies that can help you quit.

Exercise: Exercise gives you vitality. If you want fresh and youthful skin, physical activity is a must. It not only tones your muscles, but it increases blood flow to all areas of your body, especially your skin. Regular exercise reduces your stress levels, increases levels of oxygen circulating throughout the body, promoting rejuvenation and repair.

Avoid or Moderate Alcohol: Overindulgence of alcohol causes a decrease in the body’s level of vitamin A. This is a very important antioxidant vitamin that supports body and skin health. Alcohol also dilates small blood vessels in the skin’s surface, creating blemishes and red blotches. Drinking too much alcohol can exacerbate acne-rosacea. Due to the dehydrating effects of alcohol, skin wrinkles can occur after an extended period of alcohol abuse because the water in the body and skin is continually evaporated.

Reduce Stress: A good skin care routine and way of life can include meditation, yoga, relaxation, saunas, regular steams, exercise and most importantly, self love.

Get Plenty of Rest:  Lack of sleep shows up on the face in forms of dark circles, baggy eyes, and saggy skin. Research has shown that most adults function best with eight to nine hours of sleep each night. While we sleep, our skin gets a chance to rest and rejuvenate. Your skin truly does need its “beauty sleep.”

You’ve only got ONE body. Healthy choices that you CAN make every day will have tremendous effect on the quality of your life and health. The body has amazing repair capabilities, and once you stop or reduce toxic behaviors, it will be better able to heal itself.  Taking good care of yourself is the most important step in your skincare routine.

Author: Rachelle Dupree
Vivoderm Natural Skincare

Many consumers today have spent vast amounts of money to improve their appearance. Cosmetic surgery  and the topical skincare industry are multi-billion dollar businesses.  It’s a simple law of economics that the higher the demand, the more skincare manufacturers will flood onto the marketplace. When demand for cheap, readily available products is high, quality ingredients tend to take a backseat over inferior, more accessible ones.

Many skincare products are unfortunately rushed to market to meet this demand without any real consideration to research and development. Most of the budget may go into the marketing of the product. On the surface everything looks great. The bottles and jars that the creams come in look appealing. The magazine advertisements are glossy, complete with a youthful looking model or a well known celebrity who may not even use the products themselves. But underneath the jar lid, one can typically find un-pronounceable ingredients chemically formulated to “imitate” their natural predecessor.

It seems incredible, but many skin care products are loaded with ingredients that actually harm your skin over time. Some of the more controversial preservatives used in recent years are called PARABENS.

WHY ARE PARABENS BAD?

According to Wikipedia, “Parabens are a class of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Parabens are effective preservatives in many types of formulas. These compounds, and their salts, are used primarily for their bactericidal and fungicidal properties. They can be found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, personal lubricants, topical/parenteral pharmaceuticals, spray tanning solution and toothpaste. They are also used as food additives.

Their efficacy as preservatives, in combination with their low cost, the long history of their use, and the inefficacy of natural alternatives like grapefruit seed extract (GSE),[1] probably explains why parabens are so commonplace. They are becoming increasingly controversial, however, because they have been found in extremely low concentrations in breast cancer tumors (an average of 20 nanograms/g of tissue). [2] Parabens have also displayed the ability to weakly mimic estrogen (a hormone known to play a role in the development of breast cancer).[2] No causal link between parabens and cancer has been established, however.[3]”

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in their report “Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the Environment: Agents of Subtle Change?” reported that the chemical preservatives called parabens—methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl (alkyl-p-hydroxybenzoates)—displayed estrogenic activity in several tests.

This means that these chemicals mimic your body´s own hormones and can have endocrine-disrupting action when they are rubbed into your body or washed down the drain into your drinking water. These disruptors interfere with your body´s endocrine system: your hypothalamus, your ovaries, your thyroid—virtually every system in your body. The EPA also stated that “continual introduction of these benzoates (parabens) into sewage treatment systems and directly to recreational waters from the skin leads to the question of risk to aquatic organisms.” Scientists in Europe found other endocrine-disrupting body care chemicals in the bodies of fish that humans are eating, and in human breast milk.

Many organic and natural skincare practitioners claim organic herbal medicinal tinctures made from high quality organic herbs and organic grain alcohol are shelf-stable for around two to three years. These include foods considered by the FDA to be “self-preserving” and containing no preservatives, such as: honey, maple syrup, vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and wine.
According to one organic website, a self-preserved 100% organic moisturizing body oil made from organic sunflower oil, organic cocoa butter, organic coconut oil, organic peppermint oil and organic spearmint oil can have a shelf-life of up to 18 months. While this is HALF of its chemically-based brothers and sisters, some are finding those states to be more than palatable.

The Natural Skincare Authority lists, tea tree oil thyme essential oil, grapefruit seed extract, bitter orange extract among some of the alternatives to synthetic preservatives.  Contrary to popular myth the decaying process is natural and happens with or without preservatives. In reality, preservatives serve only to delay the inevitable. Skin care products (just like food) do not and should not last forever. If left for long enough they will deteriorate and go rancid.

Simple actions like storing your natural/organic products and recipes in the refrigerator will help extend their shelf life (naturally). Taking the time to understand what you are buying and spreading on and through your skin can result in a healthier, happier, longer-lasting you.

1. a b von Woedtke T, Schluter B, Pflegel P, Lindequist U, Julich WD (1999 June). “Aspects of the antimicrobial efficacy of grapefruit seed extract and its relation to preservative substances contained”. Pharmazie (Greifswald, Germany: Institute of Pharmacy, Ernst Moritz Arndt University,) 54 (6): 452–6. PMID 10399191.
2. a b c d Harvey PW, Everett DJ (2004). “Significance of the detection of esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid (parabens) in human breast tumours”. Journal of Applied Toxicology 24 (1): 1–4. doi:10.1002/jat.957. PMID 14745840.
3.  Golden R, Gandy J, Vollmer G (2005). “A review of the endocrine activity of parabens and implications for potential risks to human health”. Critical Reviews in Toxicology 35 (5): 435–58. doi:10.1080/10408440490920104. PMID 16097138.

If you suffer from acne, rosacea, redness or uneven skin tone you might want to pay attention to the ingredients in your skincare products. Inflammation, redness and even allergic reactions can be caused by an overabundance of chemicals in your facial products. Whenever possible, choose facial products that contain a majority of natural or organic ingredients.  Many of these herbs are used today in anti-aging and anti-acne products like facial masks and all forms of cleansers, toners and moisturizers. There is a plethora of herbs to choose from, the following are some of the most predominant and effective.
Chamomile — This very gentle herb is ideal to replenish and enrich dry or sensitive skin. It’s bactericidal, anti-itching, and antiseptic properties help to refresh the skin and reduce swelling.
Chamomile contains phenolic derivatives, which have an antiseptic and healing quality, which is most helpful in relieving skin congestion. These soften the skin, making it an effective ingredient in any anti-aging cosmetic product.
Chamomile is an ideal ingredient to be used in general skin care, and especially where inflammation may be present, such as in various skin problems, including acne, irritation and other forms of rashes and skin complaints, plus the fact that it promotes granulation and cell regeneration.
Comfrey— Comfrey is a sweet, cooling herb with expectorant, astringent, soothing and healing effects. It reduces inflammation and controls bleeding.  It contains allantoin (a chemical compound commonly used in lotions and creams) as well as high amounts of mucilage. It is a superb wound healing herb, but the pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) can be carcinogenic and also cause liver damage if ingested in large doses or too frequently.
Used externally for psoriasis, eczema, sores, varicose veins and skin ulcers, arthritis, sprains, bunions, hemorrhoids, sore breasts during lactation, and injuries, including fractures.  It is particularly effective in slow healing wounds and to help repair tissue damage. Comfrey is used to stimulate growth of new skin cells.
Lavender—Is a great multi-purpose herb. It’s a skin healer; it stimulates cell growth, reduces inflammation, prevents scarring and balances the production of natural sebum or oil.  It is antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory.
Green tea —Very beneficial for sensitive skin types by reducing inflammation and irritation in the skin. Wrinkles, skin sag and other signs of aging have been shown to benefit from Green tea. Green tea gets is power from polyphenols – which are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and help slow down signs of premature of aging.
Rosemary —Helps strengthen the capillaries and has a rejuvenating effect. It contains caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid - both are potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents.  The antioxidants contained in rosemary also help to protect your body’s cells from damage by free radicals.
Marshmallow —Is a flowering plant and it’s extracts have traditionally been used on the skin to treat inflammation.  It’s an excellent therapy for skin rashes or eruptions. The rich, demulcent nature of marshmallow gives it soothing, moistening and calming properties on the skin.
Aloe vera —Stimulates cell renewal, has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. The 20 amino acids it contains are the building blocks of cell tissue.  It is beneficial for skin eruptions and for the treatment of bruises and burns. It is also a cellular regenerator.
Beta Carotene —Dermatologists use beta-carotene for its ability to increase cell turn-over and regeneration in the outer layers of the skin, making it effective for diseases and skin conditions. Topical application of beta-carotene in retailed skin care products can enhance the appearance of the skin by restoring suppleness and adding a “glowing” pigment that seemingly evens out the skin tone. Beta-carotene’s antioxidant attributes, such as sun damage protection, are used to prevent the signs of aging in the skin.
Mint— Mint has significant rejuvenating properties. It is an anti-pruitic and antiseptic, natural cleanser, alleviates, itching, infection, and sooths rashes or inflammation. It is a great addition for anti-acne and natural anti-aging skin care.
It is always best to use the herbs in their most natural form; fresh, dried, pulverized or diluted in common carrier oil, like almond, jojoba or hazelnut oil. You can also find many herbal options in essential oils, but use these with caution. The first rule of essential oil skin care is don’t apply undiluted oils directly to skin. They are super-concentrated, and can cause allergies or chemical burns if used undiluted.

When it comes to anti aging, there is no better a fruit than papaya. Papaya enzymes help to fight free body radicals that cause premature skin aging. Papaya is also a storehouse of beta carotene, Vitamin E and A which consequently help to fight the signs of aging. Not only does the fruit help in preventing the formation of wrinkles, it also helps in erasing age lines that have already developed. It is recommended that people who have an extremely wrinkled skin must use papaya facial pack at least once in a week. Consistent usage of papaya mask will help in erasing out facial lines.

Peach is another great anti aging fruit. The fruit is a good natural source of antioxidants. As a result, it helps to postpone the ugly signs of aging. Peach tree is a native China tree but nowadays the fruit is commercially grown everywhere. Being a rich stock house of potassium, magnesium, calcium and key vitamins, peach is an incredible anti aging agent. Dry peaches are highly rich in sulphur quantities. As such, those who are allergic to sulphur must stay away from dried peaches. Peach pulp may be used to apply all over the facial skin in order to get a taut skin. You may add lemon or rose water in the mixture to enhance its effectiveness.

So, you see there are great anti aging agents lying in your refrigerator! Go, try them!

There are thousands of anti-aging masks which claim to work wonders. For people who are not comfortable with products from the market, there are many home made masks which are good. Before trying anything new one has to understand their skin type so that a person with dry skin ends up using a product meant for oily skin. It would further dry the skin and can lead to signs of early aging.  For people with oily skin it is good to use clay anti-aging masks. Clay has an innate quality of anti-aging as it tightens the sagging and loose skin.

There are a number of homemade masks which can be used safely. Powdered kelp with oatmeal is good to make the skin look radiant. Almonds, jojoba oil and olive oil can work wonder with dead looking skin.  There are masks for skin which have highly wrinkled. There are various herbal anti-aging masks and treatments which can give new life to an aging skin.  Aging can happen due to many external reasons too. Exposure to sun for long hours can cause early aging. Dust and grime deposits on the skin can also make the skin age quickly. To maintain the radiance of the skin it becomes necessary to follow the daily skin care routine.  Look for a mask which can exfoliate too.

Some are born with genes which keep them looking young for a longer period of time where as there are people who look very old early in their life. They can blame it all on the genes however; there are various other reasons which can be held responsible for aging. Some of the culprits are the sun, pollution, heat and dust, lifestyle and some habits. Most of these can be controlled to arrest further deterioration of the skin. Skin care has to be there right from the beginning. Before applying any anti aging facial mask cleansing of the face and neck has to be done. It would be good if one could sit in a steam bath. There are tones of organic anti aging facial masks that can be made at home. Once a mask is applied it is good to sit back and relax for a while. Remove the mask and follow the daily regime of toning and moisturizing.

Before any beauty product is bought it is good to recognize the skin type, tone and texture so that the correct mask is bought to achieve the desired results.