/oss/taxonomy/term/362/all en /oss/article/critical-thinking-health-and-nutrition-pseudoscience/dim-science-neuroglow <p>The cosmetics industry sells hope by mixing a little chemistry with a hefty dose of hype. Novelty, whether in “actives,” or in packaging, or just fresh flim-flam is what opens wallets. Since consumers are becoming blasé about over-used terms like moisturizing, anti-aging, rejuvenating, nurturing, hydrating, revolutionary and natural, marketers are pressed to come up with new ploys. Throwing in sciency terms like “psychodermatology” and “neurocosmetics,” can invigorate sales. Neurocosmetics are said to forge a link between the mind and skin care. Who says so? Psychodermatologists.</p> Wed, 22 May 2024 02:16:08 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 9951 at /oss /oss/article/history-general-science/want-cuddle-personality-likely-get-you-further-oxytocin <p>Why do people cuddle? According to a slew of media reports, that answer lies in oxytocin, dubbed either the “cuddle chemical” or the “love hormone.” English pharmacologist and neurophysiologist Sir Henry Hallett Dale was the first to isolate oxytocin from pituitary extract in 1921, eventually receiving the 1936 Nobel Prize in medicine and physiology for the discovery. Dale’s work on oxytocin was prompted by his interest in the ergot fungus, extracts of which had a long history of use for stimulating the contractions of the pregnant uterus. The question was why.</p> Fri, 10 Dec 2021 21:34:54 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 8948 at /oss /oss/article/science-science-everywhere/new-role-oxytocin <p>Could oxytocin, a natural hormone, help patients suffering from anxiety and other related personality dysfunctions? Maybe. At least that is what a group of researchers from the University of California San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine believe. Oxytocin, a chemical found in the brain, plays a number of important physiological functions in all mammals. In women it facilitates labour by promoting cervical dilation and promoting uterine contractions.</p> Sat, 30 Jul 2011 17:41:07 +0000 Ariel Fenster 1583 at /oss /oss/article/news/pucker <p>And just when I was getting used to being single in the summer. July 6th rolls around; International Kissing Day. It’s like a second Valentine’s Day but less sweet. I mean really, no chocolate? But then I think. Sure dedicating an entire day to acknowledge one single pucker of the lips may seem slightly over-the-top, yet there truly is no other display of emotion in which everyone can relate.</p> Fri, 06 Jul 2012 20:52:14 +0000 Emily Shore, B.A, Dipl. PR Management 1715 at /oss