Have you ever been so afraid it changes your life in a bad way? Perhaps you stopped swimming in the ocean after you saw Jaws? Maybe you keep a brick in your bedroom to smash spiders. Or you walk up 15 flights of stairs because there is no way you are getting into the deathtrap that some people call an elevator.  

Experiencing fear occasionally is one thing, but living with a phobia can ruin your life. Take our quiz to learn more about the difference and how you can take control of your fears.  

By the way, if you have a spider smashing brick, we are not judging. Some spiders are frightening, and we don’t want them on the bottom of our shoe either. 

Experiencing fear occasionally is one thing, but living with a phobia can ruin your life. Take our quiz to learn more about the difference and how you can take control of your fears.  

Lace-up your running shoes, slip on your favorite earbuds and start running like you are going to live forever … or at least longer. Studies show even a small amount of running can add years to your life.  

We all know the dangers of laying out in direct sunlight or jumping into the nearest tanning bed. So how do you achieve that perfect tanned glow without harmful ultraviolet rays? It sounds almost too good to be true, but sunless tanning can safely turn you freshly bronzed with just a dab of lotion or a spritz of spray. 

Before you reach for that miracle in a bottle, though, read on for the how-to’s of sunless tanning products. 

How it works 

Self-tanning products typically come in two forms: lotions and sprays. Most sunless tanning lotions are sold over-the-counter, while sprays can usually be found in professional salons and spas. 

The active ingredient in most of these lotions is dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, which temporarily darkens the color of the dead skin cells in the outermost layer. Like most tanning options, sunless tanning typically lasts just a few days before the skin returns to its normal color. 

Getting even results 

Before using any sunless tanning product, you’ll need to apply an exfoliator to your skin to remove any loose dead skin cells. This will allow the product to work the most effectively. 

When you’re ready to apply the tanning lotion, it’s best to put it on in sections, beginning on your torso and arms before moving to the next section. Use the least amount necessary; excessive use can result in that dreaded orange glow. Also, be sure to work the product onto your skin in a circular motion to ensure the lotion is applied evenly so you avoid streaks. And if you opt not to use gloves when applying the product, be sure to wash your hands immediately after to prevent any staining. 

Safety factors 

While the Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of DHA in sunless tanning products (as long as they are applied externally), it is not approved for use on certain parts of the face, including the eyes, nose and mouth. The FDA also recommends against the use of sunless tanning pills because they can potentially damage your eyesight, along with your liver and other vital organs. 

And remember that the active ingredients in sunless tanning lotions and sprays will not protect you against UV rays, so always use sunscreen on your self-tanned skin. 

We all know the dangers of laying out in direct sunlight or jumping into the nearest tanning bed. So how do you achieve that perfect tanned glow without harmful ultraviolet rays?

Genesis HealthCare System earned primary stroke recertification by the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP), the nation’s original independent accreditation organization recognized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Thomas A. Washer, PA specializes in Pathology. He practices in Zanesville, Ohio.

Baby Carrots with Orange Glaze

This delicious baby carrots with orange glaze recipe only takes 25 minutes to prepare and makes 4 servings.

Bayer Heritage Federal Credit Union recently donated $6,065 to Genesis Cancer Services. The money was raised by events held by credit union employees and will go toward comfort care items for patients undergoing cancer treatment at the Genesis Cancer Care Center.

Body art is a growing trend among all age groups. While ear piercing has been a staple accessory for decades, piercings on other parts of the body are also growing in popularity.