Beauty Tips For Women: How To Achieve That Sexy LookHere are a few proven tips to help you look sexy and attractive in no time. Sometimes you don't have to spend a fortune on beauty products/services in order to look sexy. All you need is some positive attitude, self confidence and a few tips like the ones in this article.
Beauty tip 1: Brush Your Teeth
Always take good care of your teeth. Keep them extra white and shiny (aka sexy). Visit the dentist every now and then to ensure your teeth are healthy.
Beauty tip 2: The Earrings
I strongly recommend using your favorite jewelry when trying to look sexy. I will stress the use of earrings especially at dark hours. A pair of metallic classy earrings can make the difference and give you the hottest look.
Beauty tip 3: The Red Lipstick
Red color is bound to attract attention. Nothing does the job better than a red lipstick. Younger women should also use some lip gloss to sweeten their lips and have that shiny attractive look. Older women should avoid lip-gloss and choose a red lipstick that matches their skin type. For example, a blonde lady should use a pure red lipstick while a dark-skinned lady should go for a dark-red one.
Beauty tip 4: Quit Bad Habits
No matter what you think, quitting bad habits like alcohol or smoke will have a tremendous impact on the way you feel and look.
Beauty tip 5: The Sun Glasses And The Hat
Some people look extremely sexy when they look mysterious. A pair of sunglasses of your choice will give you a mysterious and cute look and it will protect you from UVA and UVB radiation. How about adding a hat to the set? A hat will strengthen your sex appeal and will draw attention too.
Beauty tip 6: Elegant Fabrics
Try wearing clothes made out of elegant fabrics like silk or cashmere. These fabrics feel good and will boost you self-confidence. Plus, you can visualize you are taking the place of your favorite celebrity.
But enough with the beauty tips.
Keep in mind that outer beauty is not all you need. No matter how many tips you know, how many beauty products you've bought, how many experts/stylists you've taken advice from etc.
Do you have the right kind of mindset to look sexy? Do you feel good about yourself?
What is inside is reflected on the outside. You always have to take good care of your inside and feel good about it in order to achieve an astonishing and sexy look. Then you can apply all the beauty tips you want.
Looking for more beauty tips? Take a look at this beauty guide with insider secrets from top beauty professionals. You will learn how to look and feel better than ever. You see, beauty is not just an outer appearance. It is a complete harmony from within that can be felt and sensed by others from the way you present yourself.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Beauty Tips – How To Sparkle At Any Party
Beauty Tips – How To Sparkle At Any Party
If you want to look great at any party and standout from the crowd, learn these quick beauty secrets and you will be the belle of the ball. If you want to look great at any party and standout from the crowd learn these quick beauty secrets and you will be the belle of the ball.
This year metallic is in as a theme and this allows for a dramatic stand out look.
Metallic and smoky eyes have been a big theme on the catwalks and other dramatic colours such as red and plum and electric blue are also big this year.
If you go for a standout colour or you want to be more conservative, the Beauty tips below will help get you noticed.
Make up
1. A great quick beauty secret is some false lashes. You can use alternate short and medium lashes to get a soft innocent look, or look more feline and vampy by using shorter lashes in the centre and medium ones to the side.
2. Eyes are one of your most important assets so make them the centre of attention.
3. Lips should be sexy! If you have pale skin you can use a blackish red lipstick, that will give you a gothic look or another standout colour such as purple.
4. For classy eye make up go for a silver - gold look with eye makeup. It gives an effervescent look and is the ultimate in sophistication.
Nails
Your nails if properly done will always get noticed, so what are the best colours for a party?
1. A French manicure is always classy and a safe choice but if you want to be a bit more daring and metallic crimson reds are a great option.
2. Try and match your lips to your nails. You communicate with both and this will make the upper body frame and make you look chic and sexy.
Hair
For a quick great look try the following – A long bob with a straight parting, which is a classic stylish look. It’s extremely easy to do and the parting can be down the side or centre.
You can also tuck one side behind your ear so you can get some glitzy sparkly earrings.
Face
1. Get your face prepared a day or two before.
The reason for this is if you have a facial on the day impurities tend to come to the surface and you don’t want that on the night! Do 48 hours before to ensure your skin looks its best and simply exfoliate on the day.
2. Powdered skin always gives a uniform appearance so use concealer rather than foundation which can make your face look tired and mask like.
Body
Relax in essential oils and let them moisturize and tone your skin on the day. Exfoliate the day before (not on the day) to avoid possible short term irritation. Make sure you moisturize all over afterwards.
Fragrance
Use strong smelling fragrances such as amber or musk, as they will give a pleasant scent in any party atmosphere.
Just a few beauty secrets that are quick and easy to do and of course there are many more - that will help you look your best on your big night.
If you want to look great at any party and standout from the crowd, learn these quick beauty secrets and you will be the belle of the ball. If you want to look great at any party and standout from the crowd learn these quick beauty secrets and you will be the belle of the ball.
This year metallic is in as a theme and this allows for a dramatic stand out look.
Metallic and smoky eyes have been a big theme on the catwalks and other dramatic colours such as red and plum and electric blue are also big this year.
If you go for a standout colour or you want to be more conservative, the Beauty tips below will help get you noticed.
Make up
1. A great quick beauty secret is some false lashes. You can use alternate short and medium lashes to get a soft innocent look, or look more feline and vampy by using shorter lashes in the centre and medium ones to the side.
2. Eyes are one of your most important assets so make them the centre of attention.
3. Lips should be sexy! If you have pale skin you can use a blackish red lipstick, that will give you a gothic look or another standout colour such as purple.
4. For classy eye make up go for a silver - gold look with eye makeup. It gives an effervescent look and is the ultimate in sophistication.
Nails
Your nails if properly done will always get noticed, so what are the best colours for a party?
1. A French manicure is always classy and a safe choice but if you want to be a bit more daring and metallic crimson reds are a great option.
2. Try and match your lips to your nails. You communicate with both and this will make the upper body frame and make you look chic and sexy.
Hair
For a quick great look try the following – A long bob with a straight parting, which is a classic stylish look. It’s extremely easy to do and the parting can be down the side or centre.
You can also tuck one side behind your ear so you can get some glitzy sparkly earrings.
Face
1. Get your face prepared a day or two before.
The reason for this is if you have a facial on the day impurities tend to come to the surface and you don’t want that on the night! Do 48 hours before to ensure your skin looks its best and simply exfoliate on the day.
2. Powdered skin always gives a uniform appearance so use concealer rather than foundation which can make your face look tired and mask like.
Body
Relax in essential oils and let them moisturize and tone your skin on the day. Exfoliate the day before (not on the day) to avoid possible short term irritation. Make sure you moisturize all over afterwards.
Fragrance
Use strong smelling fragrances such as amber or musk, as they will give a pleasant scent in any party atmosphere.
Just a few beauty secrets that are quick and easy to do and of course there are many more - that will help you look your best on your big night.
8 Natural Beauty Secrets
Do you know that the most effective and simplest ways to create and maintain everlasting beauty, are at your finger tips? It's all there, as nature intended.
1. Drink 8 glasses of water per day
Lots of clean, filtered water will give you a beautiful and youthful complexion. Carry around one or more bottles and aim to finish them off, every day.
2. Don't wear make-up
Read the labels of your average make-up carefully. It is safer and kinder to your skin to wear none. Not only do many of them contain harmful toxins, but they also clog up your skin. Take good care of your skin - it's the largest organ you have!
3. Moisturize your skin with food
The best moisturizer comes from the food we eat. Treat your skin with regular raw certified organic salads. You'll not only look better but you'll also feel better!
4. Have early nights
Going to sleep by 10pm and waking around 6am, provides will relax you so much, that you'll wake up with clear skin and sparkling eyes.
5. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar
Dilute 1 tablespoon of ACV in 2 cups of water. Use as a final hair rinse and leave it in your hair. Your hair will be beautiful and shiny.
6. Bathe in the sun
The early hours of the morning before 10am are the most beneficial to our overall health and wellbeing. When you feel good, you'll look good.
7. Wear colors that suit your skin tone
Wearing the right colors for your skin tone, will always bring out your natural beauty. If unsure, seek the advice of a professional color consultant.
8. Exercise
Walking the dog or doing more strenuous exercise stimulates the body's metabolism. This will in turn create a more youthful complexion and body shape.
1. Drink 8 glasses of water per day
Lots of clean, filtered water will give you a beautiful and youthful complexion. Carry around one or more bottles and aim to finish them off, every day.
2. Don't wear make-up
Read the labels of your average make-up carefully. It is safer and kinder to your skin to wear none. Not only do many of them contain harmful toxins, but they also clog up your skin. Take good care of your skin - it's the largest organ you have!
3. Moisturize your skin with food
The best moisturizer comes from the food we eat. Treat your skin with regular raw certified organic salads. You'll not only look better but you'll also feel better!
4. Have early nights
Going to sleep by 10pm and waking around 6am, provides will relax you so much, that you'll wake up with clear skin and sparkling eyes.
5. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar
Dilute 1 tablespoon of ACV in 2 cups of water. Use as a final hair rinse and leave it in your hair. Your hair will be beautiful and shiny.
6. Bathe in the sun
The early hours of the morning before 10am are the most beneficial to our overall health and wellbeing. When you feel good, you'll look good.
7. Wear colors that suit your skin tone
Wearing the right colors for your skin tone, will always bring out your natural beauty. If unsure, seek the advice of a professional color consultant.
8. Exercise
Walking the dog or doing more strenuous exercise stimulates the body's metabolism. This will in turn create a more youthful complexion and body shape.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Reduce Weight Naturally
Reduce Weight Naturally
In ayurveda, Charak Samhita describes eight different types of bodies that are disease prone. Out of these, the obese body is described as the one afflicted with the most diseases and troubles. Obesity is the condition or physical state of the body when excessive deposition of fat takes place in the adipose tissue.
Extra fat puts a strain on the heart, kidneys, liver and the joints such as the hips, knees and ankles and thus, overweight people are susceptible to several diseases like coronary thrombosis, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, gout, liver and gall bladder disorders. Chief cause of obesity is overeating, irregular eating habits and not following the rules of eating or mixing non-compatible food items in one meal.
To decrease weight and get rid of obesity three things must be kept in mind:
Controlling eating habits.
Regular exercise.
Avoiding the causes of weight gain
Diet recommended to lose weight
Early morning
Juice of half a lemon mixed in a glass of warm water and a teaspoon of honey.
Breakfast
Wheat or Mung bean sprouts and a cup of skimmed milk.
Midmorning
A glass of orange, pineapple or carrot juice.
Lunch
Salad of raw vegetables such as carrot, beet, cucumber, cabbage, tomatoes. Steamed or boiled vegetables
Whole grain bread or whole wheat chapatis (Indian bread) and a glass of buttermilk.
Roasted cumin seeds, green coriander leaves, a little salt and some grated ginger mixed in the buttermilk.
Mid-afternoon
Coconut water
Dry fruits
Lemon tea
Fresh vegetable soup
Dinner
Whole grain bread or chapatis
Steamed vegetables
Seasonal fruits except banana and apple.
Home Remedies for Losing Weight
Increase the quantity of fruits and vegetables and low calorie foods.
Avoid intake of too much salt as it may be a factor for increasing body weight.
Milk products like cheese, butter etc. and non-vegetarian foods should be avoided as they are rich in fat.
Mint is very beneficial in losing weight. A chutney of green mint with some simple spices can be taken with meals. Mint tea also helps.
Spices like dry ginger, cinnamon, black pepper etc. are good for loosing weight and can be used in a number of ways.
Regular intake of carrot juice.
Avoid rice and potato, which contain a lot of carbohydrates. Among cereals wheat is good.
Vegetables like bitter gourd (Karela), and bitter variety of drumstick are useful in loosing weight.
Honey is an excellent home remedy for obesity. It mobilizes the extra deposited fat in the body allowing it to be utilized as energy for normal functions.
Dosage: One should start with small quantity of about 10 grams or a tablespoon, taken with hot water early in the morning. A teaspoonful of fresh lemon juice may also be added.
Fasting on honey and lime- juice is highly beneficial in the treatment of obesity without the loss of energy and appetite. For this, mix one teaspoon of fresh honey with the juice of half a lime in a glass of lukewarm water.
Dosage: Take several times a day at regular intervals.
Raw or cooked cabbage inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat. Hence, it is of great value in weight reduction.
Exercise is an important part of any weight reduction plan. It helps to use up calories stored in body as fat.
Walking is the best exercise to begin with and may be followed by running, swimming or rowing.
The gum of Commiphora Mukul called 'guggulu' is the drug of choice for the treatment of obesity.
Preparation of Home Remedies
According to ayurveda home remedies are prepared in the same way and with the same purpose as other ayurvedic medicines. The main aim is to obtain the maximum therapeutic benefit while making it palatable.
Some common methods of preparing home remedies are:
Juice
The juice may be taken from the fresh leaves, flowers or stems of the herb. The part of the herb used should be crushed or ground in a mortar and pestle, to make a paste. This paste should be put in a piece of cloth and squeezed to take out the juice.
Dosage: One to two tablespoons twice a day.
Powder
Dried herbs are used for powders. The herbs are usually dried in a cool, shady and well-ventilated place, although some herbs are dried in direct sunlight. The herbs are then ground into a fine powder and stored in a dry, airtight bottle. The powder may be taken with water, or if specified, with milk or honey.
Dosage: Half to one teaspoon twice a day
Decoction
A decoction is prepared by boiling the herb in water (ratio: 1 part herb to 16 parts water). The herbs are broken into pieces and soaked in water overnight. This mixture is then boiled until it reduces to one quarter of the original volume. It is then filtered and stored in a glass bottle.
Dosage: One to two tablespoons twice a day.
Infusion
Herbs are soaked in water to make an infusion (ratio: 1 part herb to 8 parts water). Hot infusions result from adding herbs to hot water, or gently heating but not boiling the mixture. This is strained and taken internally. Herbal teas are forms of hot infusions. Cold infusions are made from soaking the herb overnight. Honey can be added.
Dosage: half to one cup once or twice day.
Paste
A paste can be made from either fresh or dried herbs. The flowers, roots, stems, leaves or bark are ground and mixed with water. Pastes are mainly used for external application, in cases of cuts, burns and swellings. The paste should be thick enough to be applied in a layer to the skin.
Tablets
The herbs should be first dried separately and then mixed together in a powder form, in fixed proportions. Water or herbal juice can be added to this powder to make a paste, from which tablets of a specific size or weight are made. Tablets remain potent longer than juices, powders, pastes or decoctions.
Dosage: 1 or 2 tablets twice a day.
Medicated ghee and oil
Ghee is cooked with herbal juices, decoctions or pastes. The ghee should be heated with the herbal mixture at a moderate, controlled temperature. High temperatures can easily burn the ghee or oil, destroying its effectiveness. Medicated ghee and oils are either used internally or massaged externally.
Dosage: Half to one tablespoon.
In ayurveda, Charak Samhita describes eight different types of bodies that are disease prone. Out of these, the obese body is described as the one afflicted with the most diseases and troubles. Obesity is the condition or physical state of the body when excessive deposition of fat takes place in the adipose tissue.
Extra fat puts a strain on the heart, kidneys, liver and the joints such as the hips, knees and ankles and thus, overweight people are susceptible to several diseases like coronary thrombosis, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, gout, liver and gall bladder disorders. Chief cause of obesity is overeating, irregular eating habits and not following the rules of eating or mixing non-compatible food items in one meal.
To decrease weight and get rid of obesity three things must be kept in mind:
Controlling eating habits.
Regular exercise.
Avoiding the causes of weight gain
Diet recommended to lose weight
Early morning
Juice of half a lemon mixed in a glass of warm water and a teaspoon of honey.
Breakfast
Wheat or Mung bean sprouts and a cup of skimmed milk.
Midmorning
A glass of orange, pineapple or carrot juice.
Lunch
Salad of raw vegetables such as carrot, beet, cucumber, cabbage, tomatoes. Steamed or boiled vegetables
Whole grain bread or whole wheat chapatis (Indian bread) and a glass of buttermilk.
Roasted cumin seeds, green coriander leaves, a little salt and some grated ginger mixed in the buttermilk.
Mid-afternoon
Coconut water
Dry fruits
Lemon tea
Fresh vegetable soup
Dinner
Whole grain bread or chapatis
Steamed vegetables
Seasonal fruits except banana and apple.
Home Remedies for Losing Weight
Increase the quantity of fruits and vegetables and low calorie foods.
Avoid intake of too much salt as it may be a factor for increasing body weight.
Milk products like cheese, butter etc. and non-vegetarian foods should be avoided as they are rich in fat.
Mint is very beneficial in losing weight. A chutney of green mint with some simple spices can be taken with meals. Mint tea also helps.
Spices like dry ginger, cinnamon, black pepper etc. are good for loosing weight and can be used in a number of ways.
Regular intake of carrot juice.
Avoid rice and potato, which contain a lot of carbohydrates. Among cereals wheat is good.
Vegetables like bitter gourd (Karela), and bitter variety of drumstick are useful in loosing weight.
Honey is an excellent home remedy for obesity. It mobilizes the extra deposited fat in the body allowing it to be utilized as energy for normal functions.
Dosage: One should start with small quantity of about 10 grams or a tablespoon, taken with hot water early in the morning. A teaspoonful of fresh lemon juice may also be added.
Fasting on honey and lime- juice is highly beneficial in the treatment of obesity without the loss of energy and appetite. For this, mix one teaspoon of fresh honey with the juice of half a lime in a glass of lukewarm water.
Dosage: Take several times a day at regular intervals.
Raw or cooked cabbage inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat. Hence, it is of great value in weight reduction.
Exercise is an important part of any weight reduction plan. It helps to use up calories stored in body as fat.
Walking is the best exercise to begin with and may be followed by running, swimming or rowing.
The gum of Commiphora Mukul called 'guggulu' is the drug of choice for the treatment of obesity.
Preparation of Home Remedies
According to ayurveda home remedies are prepared in the same way and with the same purpose as other ayurvedic medicines. The main aim is to obtain the maximum therapeutic benefit while making it palatable.
Some common methods of preparing home remedies are:
Juice
The juice may be taken from the fresh leaves, flowers or stems of the herb. The part of the herb used should be crushed or ground in a mortar and pestle, to make a paste. This paste should be put in a piece of cloth and squeezed to take out the juice.
Dosage: One to two tablespoons twice a day.
Powder
Dried herbs are used for powders. The herbs are usually dried in a cool, shady and well-ventilated place, although some herbs are dried in direct sunlight. The herbs are then ground into a fine powder and stored in a dry, airtight bottle. The powder may be taken with water, or if specified, with milk or honey.
Dosage: Half to one teaspoon twice a day
Decoction
A decoction is prepared by boiling the herb in water (ratio: 1 part herb to 16 parts water). The herbs are broken into pieces and soaked in water overnight. This mixture is then boiled until it reduces to one quarter of the original volume. It is then filtered and stored in a glass bottle.
Dosage: One to two tablespoons twice a day.
Infusion
Herbs are soaked in water to make an infusion (ratio: 1 part herb to 8 parts water). Hot infusions result from adding herbs to hot water, or gently heating but not boiling the mixture. This is strained and taken internally. Herbal teas are forms of hot infusions. Cold infusions are made from soaking the herb overnight. Honey can be added.
Dosage: half to one cup once or twice day.
Paste
A paste can be made from either fresh or dried herbs. The flowers, roots, stems, leaves or bark are ground and mixed with water. Pastes are mainly used for external application, in cases of cuts, burns and swellings. The paste should be thick enough to be applied in a layer to the skin.
Tablets
The herbs should be first dried separately and then mixed together in a powder form, in fixed proportions. Water or herbal juice can be added to this powder to make a paste, from which tablets of a specific size or weight are made. Tablets remain potent longer than juices, powders, pastes or decoctions.
Dosage: 1 or 2 tablets twice a day.
Medicated ghee and oil
Ghee is cooked with herbal juices, decoctions or pastes. The ghee should be heated with the herbal mixture at a moderate, controlled temperature. High temperatures can easily burn the ghee or oil, destroying its effectiveness. Medicated ghee and oils are either used internally or massaged externally.
Dosage: Half to one tablespoon.
Simple Facial Exercises
Simple Facial Exercises
If you want firmer facial skin, and want to look years younger just follow these ten exercises every morning and watch the age on your face fade away.
Face tapping - to get the circulation going
Tap 20 times on each dot with the pads of your middle fingers. From the bridge of your nose work out along your eyebrows, then in round the top of your cheekbone. Tap up from the sides of your mouth to each inner eye. Then out from the chin along the jawline to each ear. Make sharp, light, very quick taps as if you are testing a very hot iron.
Ear massage - to get your face glowing
With index fingers and thumbs, hold the top rim of your ears and pull upwards. Massage, making small circles between fingers and thumb. Move down all round the rim of the ears, pulling ears out gently and massaging. When you reach the lobes, pull them down slightly and massage for about one minute. Repeat this sequence if you have time. Then, with small, quick circular movements, massage all the crevices and spirals of the ear. Use the surface of the nails of your index fingers, or the pads of your middle fingers.
Throat massage - to beautify your neck
Put the fingers of one hand on one side of your throat and the thumb on the other. Make rapid circular motions up and down the throat. Repeat with the other hand.
Gum stimulation - for glowing gums
With finger tips of knuckles, make circles just above the jawline along the gums.
Under-chin slaps - to sharpen your jawline
Slap quickly and lightly under your chin 30 times with the back of one hand.
Hair massage - to stimulate hair growth and soothe headaches
With pads of your fingertips, massage in small circles all along the front of your scalp for atleast 30 seconds. Then take large fistfuls of hair and gently pull upwards. Now clench your hands into fists and lightly pound your scalp about 20 times.
Face Stroking - to soothe, relax and generally uplift face and mind
Start with the flat of your right hand against your chest and stroke up to your jawline, then immediately follow with your left. Continue alternating like this for atleast ten strokes.
Next, immediately smooth the palms and fingers of your hands over your face very, very lightly. Start at the jawline, move up and over your cheeks and each side of your nostrils, gently over the eyes and over the forehead to the hairline, then back down the sides of your face to your jaw. Repeat five to ten times in a continuous motion.
Now glide your middle fingers towards the bridge of your nose, out along your eyebrow, down your cheekbones and back to the bridge of your nose. Make ten of these light circular movements.
Then with your middle fingers on the bridge of your nose, stroke up towards your forehead. Place all fingers (not thumb) on your forehead and smooth outwards towards your temples; hold for a moment, pressing down slightly. Continue lightly down the side of your face, back along up from the bridge of your nose. Do this ten times.
Temple pressures - to lift eye area and whole face.
Leaning back in a chair, place the base of your palm or the pads of your fingertips against your temples and push upwards. At the same time, suck your tongue against the top of your mouth keeping your back teeth together. Hold this for a count of ten, increasing to 20. Slowly release and relax.
Exercise your mouth - to lift lip lines
Sit or stand, looking into the mirror. Open your mouth quite wide, as if about to yawn. Pull in the sides to form an oval. Now curve your lips over teeth. Then slowly to the count of ten, close your lips until they are about 1.5cm (1/2in) apart. You will feel an upward pull. Release very slowly.
Finish by closing your eyes for a few moments, breathing deeply and gently and allowing yourself to drift off into a peaceful place.
If you want firmer facial skin, and want to look years younger just follow these ten exercises every morning and watch the age on your face fade away.
Face tapping - to get the circulation going
Tap 20 times on each dot with the pads of your middle fingers. From the bridge of your nose work out along your eyebrows, then in round the top of your cheekbone. Tap up from the sides of your mouth to each inner eye. Then out from the chin along the jawline to each ear. Make sharp, light, very quick taps as if you are testing a very hot iron.
Ear massage - to get your face glowing
With index fingers and thumbs, hold the top rim of your ears and pull upwards. Massage, making small circles between fingers and thumb. Move down all round the rim of the ears, pulling ears out gently and massaging. When you reach the lobes, pull them down slightly and massage for about one minute. Repeat this sequence if you have time. Then, with small, quick circular movements, massage all the crevices and spirals of the ear. Use the surface of the nails of your index fingers, or the pads of your middle fingers.
Throat massage - to beautify your neck
Put the fingers of one hand on one side of your throat and the thumb on the other. Make rapid circular motions up and down the throat. Repeat with the other hand.
Gum stimulation - for glowing gums
With finger tips of knuckles, make circles just above the jawline along the gums.
Under-chin slaps - to sharpen your jawline
Slap quickly and lightly under your chin 30 times with the back of one hand.
Hair massage - to stimulate hair growth and soothe headaches
With pads of your fingertips, massage in small circles all along the front of your scalp for atleast 30 seconds. Then take large fistfuls of hair and gently pull upwards. Now clench your hands into fists and lightly pound your scalp about 20 times.
Face Stroking - to soothe, relax and generally uplift face and mind
Start with the flat of your right hand against your chest and stroke up to your jawline, then immediately follow with your left. Continue alternating like this for atleast ten strokes.
Next, immediately smooth the palms and fingers of your hands over your face very, very lightly. Start at the jawline, move up and over your cheeks and each side of your nostrils, gently over the eyes and over the forehead to the hairline, then back down the sides of your face to your jaw. Repeat five to ten times in a continuous motion.
Now glide your middle fingers towards the bridge of your nose, out along your eyebrow, down your cheekbones and back to the bridge of your nose. Make ten of these light circular movements.
Then with your middle fingers on the bridge of your nose, stroke up towards your forehead. Place all fingers (not thumb) on your forehead and smooth outwards towards your temples; hold for a moment, pressing down slightly. Continue lightly down the side of your face, back along up from the bridge of your nose. Do this ten times.
Temple pressures - to lift eye area and whole face.
Leaning back in a chair, place the base of your palm or the pads of your fingertips against your temples and push upwards. At the same time, suck your tongue against the top of your mouth keeping your back teeth together. Hold this for a count of ten, increasing to 20. Slowly release and relax.
Exercise your mouth - to lift lip lines
Sit or stand, looking into the mirror. Open your mouth quite wide, as if about to yawn. Pull in the sides to form an oval. Now curve your lips over teeth. Then slowly to the count of ten, close your lips until they are about 1.5cm (1/2in) apart. You will feel an upward pull. Release very slowly.
Finish by closing your eyes for a few moments, breathing deeply and gently and allowing yourself to drift off into a peaceful place.
Hair Loss
Hair Loss
We loose 50 to 80 strands of hair per day. Do not get alarmed, this is quite normal. Unless there is some deficiency in diet, or ill health, lost hair is quickly replaced by new ones. Each hair grows between one quarter and one half inch each month.
Reasons for hair loss
Hair loss can be triggered off by various reasons, internal diseases, reaction to drugs, dietary deficiencies, scalp diseases, menopause, childbirth, are common causes, which lead to a loss of essential nutrients and minerals from the scalp.
Another cause of hair loss that is usually overlooked is hair damage. Excessive stretching and tugging with hard combs and styling appliances, exposure to extreme heat, regular use of rollers and blow drying, perming and colouring lead to this problem.
Alopecia aerate is another alarming scalp disease. In this disease hair growth may be normal in most areas few bald patched occurring in many parts of the scalp. It maybe confined to one area or the patches may increase and enlarge, merging onto each other and finally resulting in total baldness. The main cause of this is tension and anxiety.
It is essential to remember that hair must be treated gently. Vigorous scalp massage in out, it would result in further hair loss. A wide toothed comb should be used.
Natural treatment
Success has been achieved through use of plant extracts that promote hair growth and improve the health of the scalp. Henna, reetha, shikakai, amla, bael have been used for controlling hair loss since age-old days. These extracts have no side effects.
Home Recipes
Applications of castor oil and iodine alternately for a week is excellent for this problem. Steam the head by wringing out a hot towel and wrapping it around the head. Then shampoo and use a conditioner. A conditioner offers your hair a buffer against external damage – also making it more manageable.
Soak about 200 grams of reetha in four glasses of water. Leave overnight. Next morning, boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes. Squash the reetha seeds and strain the water. Apply to hair.
A paste of lemon seeds and black pepper can be applied on bald patches, twice a week.
Massage whipped egg white all over the scalp. Allow it to dry before washing off.
Wash hair with a paste of cooked ‘ urad dal’ and fenugreek (methi), three times a week.
Combine together 5 tablespoons of pure undulated coconut milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice. Massage well into the scalp.
Most soaps and shampoos have chemicals, use amla and shikakai instead. Oiling and massaging the scalp is a must once a week. Use aloe Vera oil, or coconut oil or mustard oil twice a week. Check your diet – take sufficient proteins and vitamins. Minerals and iodine are also important. Iodine helps improve circulation of blood in the scalp.
Hair must be protected from treatments that cause damage so a regular hair care routine must be followed. Unfortunately, we sit up only when we are confronted with a problem.
We loose 50 to 80 strands of hair per day. Do not get alarmed, this is quite normal. Unless there is some deficiency in diet, or ill health, lost hair is quickly replaced by new ones. Each hair grows between one quarter and one half inch each month.
Reasons for hair loss
Hair loss can be triggered off by various reasons, internal diseases, reaction to drugs, dietary deficiencies, scalp diseases, menopause, childbirth, are common causes, which lead to a loss of essential nutrients and minerals from the scalp.
Another cause of hair loss that is usually overlooked is hair damage. Excessive stretching and tugging with hard combs and styling appliances, exposure to extreme heat, regular use of rollers and blow drying, perming and colouring lead to this problem.
Alopecia aerate is another alarming scalp disease. In this disease hair growth may be normal in most areas few bald patched occurring in many parts of the scalp. It maybe confined to one area or the patches may increase and enlarge, merging onto each other and finally resulting in total baldness. The main cause of this is tension and anxiety.
It is essential to remember that hair must be treated gently. Vigorous scalp massage in out, it would result in further hair loss. A wide toothed comb should be used.
Natural treatment
Success has been achieved through use of plant extracts that promote hair growth and improve the health of the scalp. Henna, reetha, shikakai, amla, bael have been used for controlling hair loss since age-old days. These extracts have no side effects.
Home Recipes
Applications of castor oil and iodine alternately for a week is excellent for this problem. Steam the head by wringing out a hot towel and wrapping it around the head. Then shampoo and use a conditioner. A conditioner offers your hair a buffer against external damage – also making it more manageable.
Soak about 200 grams of reetha in four glasses of water. Leave overnight. Next morning, boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes. Squash the reetha seeds and strain the water. Apply to hair.
A paste of lemon seeds and black pepper can be applied on bald patches, twice a week.
Massage whipped egg white all over the scalp. Allow it to dry before washing off.
Wash hair with a paste of cooked ‘ urad dal’ and fenugreek (methi), three times a week.
Combine together 5 tablespoons of pure undulated coconut milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice. Massage well into the scalp.
Most soaps and shampoos have chemicals, use amla and shikakai instead. Oiling and massaging the scalp is a must once a week. Use aloe Vera oil, or coconut oil or mustard oil twice a week. Check your diet – take sufficient proteins and vitamins. Minerals and iodine are also important. Iodine helps improve circulation of blood in the scalp.
Hair must be protected from treatments that cause damage so a regular hair care routine must be followed. Unfortunately, we sit up only when we are confronted with a problem.
Skin Care for Summers
Skin Care for Summers
This summer promise yourself that you will look fresh and gorgeous. Even if you are barefaced without a trace of make-up. All you’ve to do is be a true water baby. And by that we don’t mean just splashing in the surf during your holiday by the sea. Water can be your beauty Aid No 1, whenever, whenever you are – holidaying, sweating it out at your office or unwinding on a leisurely Sunday at home. Decide that you can’t do without water on your dressing table.
Aqua Skin
Moisturisation is the most important part of daily skin care, since skin needs more moisture (water) than it does color sheen or gloss. You may be surprised that your summer skin, which looked radiant throughout winter, suddenly looks dull, blemished and oily. "This is because, in winter your skin’s natural oils solidifies, whereas in summer it flows freely," explains Kristina McHugh, South African beauty specialist. Because of this, most people need a lighter moisturizer in hot weather."
Although you must, as a rule, buy a water-based moisturizer, work out your skin’s needs. Maybe just plain water works for you. Herbal beautician Shahnaz Husain says that flower-based lotions like rose water can be sprayed on the face to tone and refresh it. "A rose-based skin tonic or cucumber water (made by diluting cucumber juice with water) can be used to spray the face," she says. "Keep them cool in the fridge before use. Honey water helps dry skins more, because honey is a humecant. It dehydrates the skin.
Besides this, make a habit of splashing your face gently with water for instant freshness (try and use mineral water). You can splash as many as 20 times as long as you don’t use very hot or cold water on your skin (which can cause fine vein to appear on your face). Steam face regularly to release dirt (five minutes for dry skin and 10 minutes if it is oily). Pat dry with tissue and moisturize. Moisturizers should be used damp on the skin. This seals in the water and helps skin to hold the moisture better.
Soak Suds
Feet need TLC at the best of times, let alone in summer. And as they, unmanicured, peeling hands are a beauty sin! Blistering heat makes feet swell and sweat and sexy summer footwear means it’s all on show. So, keeping both hands and feet clean with a liberal use of soap and water (followed by a moisturizer) is a grooming must. "There’s nothing more off-putting than looking at cracked, dirty heels," insists Christina Fritzgerald of Sydney salon Smyth and Fitzgerald.
So there you are again, water is your only escape route out of unkempt hair and legs. Soaking feet and hands helps to get rid of fatigue, more so if you add a pinch of salt to the water you use. This softens the dry, dead skin around the your soles, easing its removal. Soak feet for 15-20 minutes. Shahnaz recommends hot and cold contrast soaks for the feet to help boost circulation. Soak your feet first in hot water and then in cold water for two minutes each. Do this for about 15 minutes, once a week.
Bye Bye BO
Have you thought how a small bottle with nothing but clean water in it can rid you of your nightmares? You can use herbal flower water too, to spray your armpits with. Add a few drops of cologne to the water, if you like, in the spray bottle. Earlier in the day, use a spray deo immediately after a bath on semi-damp skin. Water makes a better spray than strong cologne because some cosmetics block the natural and necessary process of perspiration. Spray twice or thrice a day.
The drink of life
Add more water to your life:
You know you should, but do you do it? Drink at least 15 glasses of water a day
Mix the fruit juice of your choice with mineral water for a healthy soda.
Is there a waterfall you can get under, or a brook to swim in? Don’t pass up the opportunity. Great for blood circulation.
Sinking into a bathtub has a tranquilizing effect on the mind. Throw in mineral salts if you can.
Use water as mouth freshener along with a sprig of mint, honey and lime.
Make a compress for dry, flaky, irritated skin using water. Use gauze dipped in tolerably cold water. Apply on affected area and leave on for 10 minutes. Instant relief.
Sebastian Keipp, who wrote My Water Cure, recommends using water as a healing power to cure disease. "Walk barefoot on grass or immerse your legs in cold water up to the knees. This increases resistance to illness."
With water, remember, more is always better.
Absolute hair highlight
The question that hair specialist Colleen Khan was asked most often at the 1999 Cosmo Show in Delhi was how often hair should be washed. "It is a total myth that you can’t wash hair everyday," says Colleen. "Clean hair is the best hair highlight. It is overshampooing that should be avoided."
Shahnaz Husain agrees. "In the summer months, hair collects more dirt and washing it regularly is necessary. Especially in cities where chemical and pollutants to cling to the scalp. In summer, hair should be washed three times a week or more, if needed. But use a small quantity of shampoo and choose a mild, herbal one."
Give your hair a cold rinse prior to turning off the shower-it closes follicles so locks in shine.
Tips for Smooth Skin
Home beauty recipes and remedies have been around for centuries. Remarkable remedies were discovered purely out of necessity. Over a period of time, many home remedies have proven to be effective and natural, therefore healthy! Making your own beauty products costs a fraction of what you pay for over-the-counter preparations.
Keep in mind any allergies or sensitivity you may have to some ingredients; such as glycerin, lemons, strawberries, eggs, etc. Check with your doctor or dermatologist if you are not sure you can use certain ingredients.
Pamper your skin with these face packs:
1. This is an excellent remedy to get rid of those ugly acne scars. Blend the sandalwood paste and rose water and apply on the scars. Keep it overnight and then wash it off with cold water the next day. This does wonders to your skin!
2. Lemons also have exfoliating properties: rub half a lemon on your face with a hint of sugar granules to remove dead cells and lighten a tan. You can also rub on hyper-pigmented areas like elbows to lighten them. Mix with a little cucumber juice to make a natural astringent. Condition your hair with the juice of one lemon mixed with a glass of lukewarm water or get rid of dandruff by rubbing your scalp with hot oil and lemon juice.
Ways to achieve a Smooth Skin
1. Mash the bananas along with milk and then apply on your face. Wash it off after 20 minutes. This makes the skin smooth and supple.
2. Blend the egg white and honey well and then apply on the face. This makes your skin smooth and helps to reduce wrinkles.
3. Blend turmeric powder with milk and apply on the face. It removes the tan and helps to reduce the facial hair. Scrub it off with a good face scrub and then wash with cold water. You can also keep it overnight.
4. Mix oatmeal along with curds and tomato juice and apply on the face. Keep it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water. It helps to remove the tan and lightens the skin.
5. Apply raw sliced potato on the face. Reduces blemishes and other scars.
6. Cucumber juice is an excellent astringent. Applying cucumber juice on the face tightens the pores. Wash it off after 15 minutes.
7. Applying turmeric powder along with limejuice removes the tan. Limejuice is a natural bleach.
8. Dried orange peels mixed with curds help reduce blemishes and scars. Wash it off after 15 minutes with cold water.
9. Honey makes the skin glow. It makes the skin soft and smooth. Helps reduce wrinkles.
10. Citrus face packs and sandalwood face packs are excellent for oily skin.
11. Rubbing ice cubes on the face tightens the pores and increases blood circulation.
Home Truths
It never fails. Just when you thought you’d seen the last of the face invaders, they’re back and larger than life! Suddenly, you feel like an alien, and the only thing you want to do move…to another planet. But wait! Instead of waging war on you skin by blasting blemishes wit supersonic zit creams and harsh scrubbing, take the kinder, gentler approach, just like the women from the past who made good use of everyday items like fruits, vegetables, nuts and cereals for enhancing their beauty. Grandma’s recipes obviously work, because even the most exotic spas of Europe are veering towards herbal and natural therapies.
The best part? You can whip these up in seconds using things that are sitting in the refrigerator or on the kitchen shelf. Masks, facials, packs and cleansers made of homegrown stuff all work in gentle, natural ways to soothe, stimulate, relax, tone or clear the skin. Though you may go according to different or problem skin types, a tutti-frutti approach may be better: everyone’s skin is a combination of oily and dry elements. You might want to use a mask for oily skin on the nose, forehead and chin and mask for dry skin everywhere else.
You can even take a Chinese restaurant approach, and combine, say honey with egg in the same skin category. However, you can cook up your mask, apply it to a cleansed skin and let it do the good work for fifteen or twenty minutes while you relax. Feet up on the pillows or resting on the slant board will double the benefits of any helper you put on the skin. Remember, skin is an all-over affair. Don’t stop with just nourishing your face – spread the good work to hands, to the throats and shoulders. After twenty minutes, splash away the facial with cool or lukewarm water.
What is your skin type? Get a headstart on the road to a dear complexion by understanding the basics:
Oily sin usually has a shiny surface, visible pores and is prone to breakouts.
Dry skin often feels taut, slightly rough and tends to chap and flake.
Combination skin is oily at the T-zone (the forehead, nose and chin) and drier on the cheeks.
Sensitive skin is thin, delicate and easily irritated. It has a red and blotchy.
Natural Masks
Break two large bananas, toss into a blender along with half of the peel and one tablespoon of raw honey. Blend to liquefy, pat on, let dry for 20 minutes.
Mix equal proportions of honey, fresh cream, or oats and almond paste. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes.
Peel and pit an avocado, liquefy in the blender with one tablespoon of raw honey. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Oily Skin Masks
Wash and core two crisp apples, but do not peel, liquefy the whole thing into the blender. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Splash on with cool water.
Wash a big, ripe tomato and liquefy the whole thing in the blender. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes, splash off with cool water.
Two nourishing masks for all skin types:
Blend two egg yolks, two tablespoons of honey, three drops of almond oil. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Grind half a cup of yellow mustard seeds, adding 2 litres of water in it. Also grind in a few rose petals. Apply on skin. Let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse well.
One Clarifying facial mask, good for all skins (to be used occassionally):
This does with gentle natural enzymes what skin-slouching creams, peelers and exfoliating lotions do with chemical – it removes dead, dry skin cells on the surface to expose fresh clear skin.
Peel a ripe banana and puree in the blender. Pat on the fruit, let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Two cleansing and bleaching masks (for faded, end of summer tans as well as winter-drab or season-change sallow skin)
Add the juice of two lemons to one cup of buttermilk. blend, pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Splash off with cool water.
Liquefy one whole lemon (washed, not peeled) and half an orange (washed, not peeled) in the blender, add one cup of plain yoghurt. blend, pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Rnse off with cool water.
Here are a few more any-time masks
For a glowing skin, cucumber mixed with fresh coconut water gives remarkable results.
use mashed bananas and strawberries as a pack to freshen up the complexion.
For curing pimples, apply a mixture of haldi (turmeric) and sandalwood on the face.
Pimples can also be cured with a light massage of rose and sevti flowers extract. The extract is easily prepared by distilling a number of flowers in a distilling apparatus. The extract should be applied on the pimples three times a day
Sunny Tales for winter
The soft chime of the Christmas bells the distant cathedral towers are already bringing in a touch of festivity to the short sunny afternoons that tend to melt away into cold evenings. The fun of celebration and the pain in bidding goodbye to the century is here. And each of us would like to good in the millennium. But as the dry northerly winds brings in an ill omen for your skin, you must be ready with your army of moisturizers, cold creams and cleansing milk to fight away the elements that try to turn your glowing skin into a dry and parched piece of dirt. And if you are not, you better be prepared. For an youthful and healthy skin not only reflects your beauty, it also enhances your personality, turning you into an element of eternal attraction. Hope you wouldn’t be able to resist yourself from being called the star of the evening!
In the days of our mothers and grandmothers, skin care started since childhood. Massaging a body oil and keeping it lying in the open, under the sun, was a regular practice. It not only helped in pigments to synthesize the vital Vitamin D needed for the baby’s bones. With maturity, the teenage girl would be asked to pamper her skin with pastes of turmeric, besan and fresh cream. In those days these simple products were just brought in from the kitchen and never sold in attractive containers with costly herbal labels on them.
But with the changing scenario of the hectic city life seems to sqeeze out all the energy and youth left in you. The pollution and the dirt is the worst enemy of your skin. Morever, busy working women no longer have time to pamper themselves with home-made products. What they can find time for is just a visit to the parlor, a quick facial and then probably an application of a popular night cream at night during the dry winter months.
Though synthetic products are flooding the markets, beauticians and skin care specialists are going back to the days of our mothers. They are advising to hold on the age-old home made products to keep your closer to nature. It is nature’s winds that turn your skin dry, yet it is nature that guards the secret to your beautiful skin.
Our skin is made up of different layers. The outer epithelial layer our epidermis is the most likely target of our environment as the harsh elements can hardly reach the dermal layer that lies below. The epidermis constantly peels off and rejuvenates. But during this course of molting the skin looks dry and you tend to lose the natural glow that you were so proud of. The peeling off is more likely to occur during the winter months as the winds are dry and squeeze out the natural oily texture of the skin. Again there are many who are allergic to the cold environment. They suffer from painful allergic manifestations that have a detrimental effect on the skin and can even lead to infections. They fail to acclimatize with the sudden change in the climate and the greatest effect is felt on the skin. Skin happens to be the reflection of how you are affected by changes in your environment.
Another important enemy in modern city life is the wide range of pollutants that precipitate in what we call the winter smog. These pollutants not only darken your skin, the dirt particles clog the skin pores and do not allow the skin to breathe. In the process your skin shrinks and you look older.
But you can turn your tomorrow into the day after with regular hair and skin care programme. Remember, your scalp is also a part of your skin and requires regular attention, otherwise your hair too will fall off easily and little can be done once this downfall starts. good skin is not one that has been taken for granted and abused with a variety of products, but one where you know what products your skin needs. The texture of all skin types are not same and nor do they have the same requirements. The first step of our skin care treatment is to have knowledge of the skin type – whether it is dry, oily or neutral. The attention you give to your skin today will definitely be reflected years later.
However, application of various products only on the outer surface does not lead to an ultimate healthy skin. What one needs is a healthy diet and a peaceful mind. The meals should have ample amount of juicy fruits and vegetables along with at least ten glasses of water a day. Intake of liquids help your skin to retain the essential oils automatically and acts as a natural protection against dryness. The diet should be deficient in vitamins, specially vitamin C and vitamin E.
Both these vitamins are essential to keep the skin soft and supple. Though most of the modern skin care products contain vitamin E, it is advised to drink milk and eat the white of an egg to assure regular intake of vitamin E.
And as far as vitamin C is concerned a lot of green vegetables and fruits will serve the purpose.
Again, there are certain parts of the body that require special care during the winter months. These are you feet and hands. Specially the feet tend to crack and they are the most neglected areas, constantly exposed to dirt and dryness. Your scalp too needs special mention as many of us suffer from the dandruff that can have long term effect on the like hair fall. And what about your lovely nose? It must look horrible with the blackheads crowding on the soft exposed part.
Three elements of skin care are needed for any skin during winter. These are a deep cleansing milk to remove the dirt or excess oil adhering to the skin. This is followed by astringent applications that cools, tightens and tones the skin enabling it to maintain a natural balance. And last but not the least an oil based nutrient rich in vitamin E to nourish the skin and keep it supple
Skin Care
Being the mirror, the barometer of an individual's health, skin is the clue to one's Ayurvedic constitution. This can be understood by the types of skin that one has. Example: If vata is predominant the skin of a person is dry, rough, cold, thin with fine pores and wrinkled. In case of pitta constitution, the skin is delicate, fair and red toned with freckles, moles or acne and burns easily. If the constitution is of kapha dosha the skin of a person is oily, smooth, moist and thick with a tendency towards large pores.
If the skin is not cared properly and neglected it suffers from premature aging, becomes dull and blemished. Regular consumption of milk, honey and yogurt are good nourishment for skin and prevents premature aging.
Following are some common skin problems and ayurvedic remedy for preventing and curing the same.
Acne and Pimples
The aggravation of tridosha or the three energies of the body results in the occurrence of acne, pimples and blackheads. In all pitta dosha is effected the most and it happens so due to the excessive intake of alcohol, tea, coffee, spicy, oily and fried foods.
Stress, tension, pollution and chemicals are also among the major causes that aggravates Pitta dosha and result in acne, boils, pimples and rashes.
Remedies
A paste made from one teaspoon each of sandalwood powder and turmeric mixed with milk, is very good. A paste of nutmeg and water is also beneficial.
Half a cup of Aloe Vera pulp can be taken internally (Do not take internally if pregnant) or applied externally to the skin. Dosage: Twice a day.
Before going to bed, was the face thoroughly and then apply a paste of 1 Tsp. coriander juice mixed with a pinch of turmeric powder.
For pimples, apply a paste made from one teaspoon of cumin seeds. Remove after one hour.
A paste of fresh fenugreek leaves, applied and washed off with warm water before going to bed prevents pimples.
Pigmentation
Imbalance of Bhrajaka Pitta that colors the skin and can be compared to melanin causes blackening, pigmentation and discoloration of skin. Excessive exposure to the sun, irregular eating, sleeping habits and consumption of foods and drinks that aggravate pitta are responsible for the aggravation of bhrajka pitta also.
Remedies
Grind five almonds and mix with 1 teaspoon of fresh cream and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply this paste to the face and neck. Leave on for about fifteen minutes.
Apply papaya juice, or mashed papaya, to the affected areas.
Grind equal amounts of sesame seeds and turmeric in a small quantity of
Water Apply to the face or discolored skin.
Make a paste from basil (tulsi) leaves and water to use on the affected skin.
Premature Aging
This is due to the aggravation of vata dosha, which naturally increases with age. Thus aging is something that can be prevented to come to early but can't be cured as such. It's a natural ongoing process and beyond human limit to control it.
Aging causes dryness and wrinkling of the skin. Factors like excessive thinking, stress, tension, over work, strain, irregular sleeping and eating habits and cold or dry foods enhance aging. Foods containing artificial flavors, colors, preservatives and chemicals also aggravate the Vata dosha and fasten aging.
Remedies
Massage the face with ghee, almond oil or coconut oil before going to bed.
Use grated cucumber in a face pack.
Apply fresh aloe Vera gel to the skin.
This summer promise yourself that you will look fresh and gorgeous. Even if you are barefaced without a trace of make-up. All you’ve to do is be a true water baby. And by that we don’t mean just splashing in the surf during your holiday by the sea. Water can be your beauty Aid No 1, whenever, whenever you are – holidaying, sweating it out at your office or unwinding on a leisurely Sunday at home. Decide that you can’t do without water on your dressing table.
Aqua Skin
Moisturisation is the most important part of daily skin care, since skin needs more moisture (water) than it does color sheen or gloss. You may be surprised that your summer skin, which looked radiant throughout winter, suddenly looks dull, blemished and oily. "This is because, in winter your skin’s natural oils solidifies, whereas in summer it flows freely," explains Kristina McHugh, South African beauty specialist. Because of this, most people need a lighter moisturizer in hot weather."
Although you must, as a rule, buy a water-based moisturizer, work out your skin’s needs. Maybe just plain water works for you. Herbal beautician Shahnaz Husain says that flower-based lotions like rose water can be sprayed on the face to tone and refresh it. "A rose-based skin tonic or cucumber water (made by diluting cucumber juice with water) can be used to spray the face," she says. "Keep them cool in the fridge before use. Honey water helps dry skins more, because honey is a humecant. It dehydrates the skin.
Besides this, make a habit of splashing your face gently with water for instant freshness (try and use mineral water). You can splash as many as 20 times as long as you don’t use very hot or cold water on your skin (which can cause fine vein to appear on your face). Steam face regularly to release dirt (five minutes for dry skin and 10 minutes if it is oily). Pat dry with tissue and moisturize. Moisturizers should be used damp on the skin. This seals in the water and helps skin to hold the moisture better.
Soak Suds
Feet need TLC at the best of times, let alone in summer. And as they, unmanicured, peeling hands are a beauty sin! Blistering heat makes feet swell and sweat and sexy summer footwear means it’s all on show. So, keeping both hands and feet clean with a liberal use of soap and water (followed by a moisturizer) is a grooming must. "There’s nothing more off-putting than looking at cracked, dirty heels," insists Christina Fritzgerald of Sydney salon Smyth and Fitzgerald.
So there you are again, water is your only escape route out of unkempt hair and legs. Soaking feet and hands helps to get rid of fatigue, more so if you add a pinch of salt to the water you use. This softens the dry, dead skin around the your soles, easing its removal. Soak feet for 15-20 minutes. Shahnaz recommends hot and cold contrast soaks for the feet to help boost circulation. Soak your feet first in hot water and then in cold water for two minutes each. Do this for about 15 minutes, once a week.
Bye Bye BO
Have you thought how a small bottle with nothing but clean water in it can rid you of your nightmares? You can use herbal flower water too, to spray your armpits with. Add a few drops of cologne to the water, if you like, in the spray bottle. Earlier in the day, use a spray deo immediately after a bath on semi-damp skin. Water makes a better spray than strong cologne because some cosmetics block the natural and necessary process of perspiration. Spray twice or thrice a day.
The drink of life
Add more water to your life:
You know you should, but do you do it? Drink at least 15 glasses of water a day
Mix the fruit juice of your choice with mineral water for a healthy soda.
Is there a waterfall you can get under, or a brook to swim in? Don’t pass up the opportunity. Great for blood circulation.
Sinking into a bathtub has a tranquilizing effect on the mind. Throw in mineral salts if you can.
Use water as mouth freshener along with a sprig of mint, honey and lime.
Make a compress for dry, flaky, irritated skin using water. Use gauze dipped in tolerably cold water. Apply on affected area and leave on for 10 minutes. Instant relief.
Sebastian Keipp, who wrote My Water Cure, recommends using water as a healing power to cure disease. "Walk barefoot on grass or immerse your legs in cold water up to the knees. This increases resistance to illness."
With water, remember, more is always better.
Absolute hair highlight
The question that hair specialist Colleen Khan was asked most often at the 1999 Cosmo Show in Delhi was how often hair should be washed. "It is a total myth that you can’t wash hair everyday," says Colleen. "Clean hair is the best hair highlight. It is overshampooing that should be avoided."
Shahnaz Husain agrees. "In the summer months, hair collects more dirt and washing it regularly is necessary. Especially in cities where chemical and pollutants to cling to the scalp. In summer, hair should be washed three times a week or more, if needed. But use a small quantity of shampoo and choose a mild, herbal one."
Give your hair a cold rinse prior to turning off the shower-it closes follicles so locks in shine.
Tips for Smooth Skin
Home beauty recipes and remedies have been around for centuries. Remarkable remedies were discovered purely out of necessity. Over a period of time, many home remedies have proven to be effective and natural, therefore healthy! Making your own beauty products costs a fraction of what you pay for over-the-counter preparations.
Keep in mind any allergies or sensitivity you may have to some ingredients; such as glycerin, lemons, strawberries, eggs, etc. Check with your doctor or dermatologist if you are not sure you can use certain ingredients.
Pamper your skin with these face packs:
1. This is an excellent remedy to get rid of those ugly acne scars. Blend the sandalwood paste and rose water and apply on the scars. Keep it overnight and then wash it off with cold water the next day. This does wonders to your skin!
2. Lemons also have exfoliating properties: rub half a lemon on your face with a hint of sugar granules to remove dead cells and lighten a tan. You can also rub on hyper-pigmented areas like elbows to lighten them. Mix with a little cucumber juice to make a natural astringent. Condition your hair with the juice of one lemon mixed with a glass of lukewarm water or get rid of dandruff by rubbing your scalp with hot oil and lemon juice.
Ways to achieve a Smooth Skin
1. Mash the bananas along with milk and then apply on your face. Wash it off after 20 minutes. This makes the skin smooth and supple.
2. Blend the egg white and honey well and then apply on the face. This makes your skin smooth and helps to reduce wrinkles.
3. Blend turmeric powder with milk and apply on the face. It removes the tan and helps to reduce the facial hair. Scrub it off with a good face scrub and then wash with cold water. You can also keep it overnight.
4. Mix oatmeal along with curds and tomato juice and apply on the face. Keep it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water. It helps to remove the tan and lightens the skin.
5. Apply raw sliced potato on the face. Reduces blemishes and other scars.
6. Cucumber juice is an excellent astringent. Applying cucumber juice on the face tightens the pores. Wash it off after 15 minutes.
7. Applying turmeric powder along with limejuice removes the tan. Limejuice is a natural bleach.
8. Dried orange peels mixed with curds help reduce blemishes and scars. Wash it off after 15 minutes with cold water.
9. Honey makes the skin glow. It makes the skin soft and smooth. Helps reduce wrinkles.
10. Citrus face packs and sandalwood face packs are excellent for oily skin.
11. Rubbing ice cubes on the face tightens the pores and increases blood circulation.
Home Truths
It never fails. Just when you thought you’d seen the last of the face invaders, they’re back and larger than life! Suddenly, you feel like an alien, and the only thing you want to do move…to another planet. But wait! Instead of waging war on you skin by blasting blemishes wit supersonic zit creams and harsh scrubbing, take the kinder, gentler approach, just like the women from the past who made good use of everyday items like fruits, vegetables, nuts and cereals for enhancing their beauty. Grandma’s recipes obviously work, because even the most exotic spas of Europe are veering towards herbal and natural therapies.
The best part? You can whip these up in seconds using things that are sitting in the refrigerator or on the kitchen shelf. Masks, facials, packs and cleansers made of homegrown stuff all work in gentle, natural ways to soothe, stimulate, relax, tone or clear the skin. Though you may go according to different or problem skin types, a tutti-frutti approach may be better: everyone’s skin is a combination of oily and dry elements. You might want to use a mask for oily skin on the nose, forehead and chin and mask for dry skin everywhere else.
You can even take a Chinese restaurant approach, and combine, say honey with egg in the same skin category. However, you can cook up your mask, apply it to a cleansed skin and let it do the good work for fifteen or twenty minutes while you relax. Feet up on the pillows or resting on the slant board will double the benefits of any helper you put on the skin. Remember, skin is an all-over affair. Don’t stop with just nourishing your face – spread the good work to hands, to the throats and shoulders. After twenty minutes, splash away the facial with cool or lukewarm water.
What is your skin type? Get a headstart on the road to a dear complexion by understanding the basics:
Oily sin usually has a shiny surface, visible pores and is prone to breakouts.
Dry skin often feels taut, slightly rough and tends to chap and flake.
Combination skin is oily at the T-zone (the forehead, nose and chin) and drier on the cheeks.
Sensitive skin is thin, delicate and easily irritated. It has a red and blotchy.
Natural Masks
Break two large bananas, toss into a blender along with half of the peel and one tablespoon of raw honey. Blend to liquefy, pat on, let dry for 20 minutes.
Mix equal proportions of honey, fresh cream, or oats and almond paste. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes.
Peel and pit an avocado, liquefy in the blender with one tablespoon of raw honey. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Oily Skin Masks
Wash and core two crisp apples, but do not peel, liquefy the whole thing into the blender. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Splash on with cool water.
Wash a big, ripe tomato and liquefy the whole thing in the blender. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes, splash off with cool water.
Two nourishing masks for all skin types:
Blend two egg yolks, two tablespoons of honey, three drops of almond oil. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Grind half a cup of yellow mustard seeds, adding 2 litres of water in it. Also grind in a few rose petals. Apply on skin. Let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse well.
One Clarifying facial mask, good for all skins (to be used occassionally):
This does with gentle natural enzymes what skin-slouching creams, peelers and exfoliating lotions do with chemical – it removes dead, dry skin cells on the surface to expose fresh clear skin.
Peel a ripe banana and puree in the blender. Pat on the fruit, let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Two cleansing and bleaching masks (for faded, end of summer tans as well as winter-drab or season-change sallow skin)
Add the juice of two lemons to one cup of buttermilk. blend, pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Splash off with cool water.
Liquefy one whole lemon (washed, not peeled) and half an orange (washed, not peeled) in the blender, add one cup of plain yoghurt. blend, pat on, let dry for 20 minutes. Rnse off with cool water.
Here are a few more any-time masks
For a glowing skin, cucumber mixed with fresh coconut water gives remarkable results.
use mashed bananas and strawberries as a pack to freshen up the complexion.
For curing pimples, apply a mixture of haldi (turmeric) and sandalwood on the face.
Pimples can also be cured with a light massage of rose and sevti flowers extract. The extract is easily prepared by distilling a number of flowers in a distilling apparatus. The extract should be applied on the pimples three times a day
Sunny Tales for winter
The soft chime of the Christmas bells the distant cathedral towers are already bringing in a touch of festivity to the short sunny afternoons that tend to melt away into cold evenings. The fun of celebration and the pain in bidding goodbye to the century is here. And each of us would like to good in the millennium. But as the dry northerly winds brings in an ill omen for your skin, you must be ready with your army of moisturizers, cold creams and cleansing milk to fight away the elements that try to turn your glowing skin into a dry and parched piece of dirt. And if you are not, you better be prepared. For an youthful and healthy skin not only reflects your beauty, it also enhances your personality, turning you into an element of eternal attraction. Hope you wouldn’t be able to resist yourself from being called the star of the evening!
In the days of our mothers and grandmothers, skin care started since childhood. Massaging a body oil and keeping it lying in the open, under the sun, was a regular practice. It not only helped in pigments to synthesize the vital Vitamin D needed for the baby’s bones. With maturity, the teenage girl would be asked to pamper her skin with pastes of turmeric, besan and fresh cream. In those days these simple products were just brought in from the kitchen and never sold in attractive containers with costly herbal labels on them.
But with the changing scenario of the hectic city life seems to sqeeze out all the energy and youth left in you. The pollution and the dirt is the worst enemy of your skin. Morever, busy working women no longer have time to pamper themselves with home-made products. What they can find time for is just a visit to the parlor, a quick facial and then probably an application of a popular night cream at night during the dry winter months.
Though synthetic products are flooding the markets, beauticians and skin care specialists are going back to the days of our mothers. They are advising to hold on the age-old home made products to keep your closer to nature. It is nature’s winds that turn your skin dry, yet it is nature that guards the secret to your beautiful skin.
Our skin is made up of different layers. The outer epithelial layer our epidermis is the most likely target of our environment as the harsh elements can hardly reach the dermal layer that lies below. The epidermis constantly peels off and rejuvenates. But during this course of molting the skin looks dry and you tend to lose the natural glow that you were so proud of. The peeling off is more likely to occur during the winter months as the winds are dry and squeeze out the natural oily texture of the skin. Again there are many who are allergic to the cold environment. They suffer from painful allergic manifestations that have a detrimental effect on the skin and can even lead to infections. They fail to acclimatize with the sudden change in the climate and the greatest effect is felt on the skin. Skin happens to be the reflection of how you are affected by changes in your environment.
Another important enemy in modern city life is the wide range of pollutants that precipitate in what we call the winter smog. These pollutants not only darken your skin, the dirt particles clog the skin pores and do not allow the skin to breathe. In the process your skin shrinks and you look older.
But you can turn your tomorrow into the day after with regular hair and skin care programme. Remember, your scalp is also a part of your skin and requires regular attention, otherwise your hair too will fall off easily and little can be done once this downfall starts. good skin is not one that has been taken for granted and abused with a variety of products, but one where you know what products your skin needs. The texture of all skin types are not same and nor do they have the same requirements. The first step of our skin care treatment is to have knowledge of the skin type – whether it is dry, oily or neutral. The attention you give to your skin today will definitely be reflected years later.
However, application of various products only on the outer surface does not lead to an ultimate healthy skin. What one needs is a healthy diet and a peaceful mind. The meals should have ample amount of juicy fruits and vegetables along with at least ten glasses of water a day. Intake of liquids help your skin to retain the essential oils automatically and acts as a natural protection against dryness. The diet should be deficient in vitamins, specially vitamin C and vitamin E.
Both these vitamins are essential to keep the skin soft and supple. Though most of the modern skin care products contain vitamin E, it is advised to drink milk and eat the white of an egg to assure regular intake of vitamin E.
And as far as vitamin C is concerned a lot of green vegetables and fruits will serve the purpose.
Again, there are certain parts of the body that require special care during the winter months. These are you feet and hands. Specially the feet tend to crack and they are the most neglected areas, constantly exposed to dirt and dryness. Your scalp too needs special mention as many of us suffer from the dandruff that can have long term effect on the like hair fall. And what about your lovely nose? It must look horrible with the blackheads crowding on the soft exposed part.
Three elements of skin care are needed for any skin during winter. These are a deep cleansing milk to remove the dirt or excess oil adhering to the skin. This is followed by astringent applications that cools, tightens and tones the skin enabling it to maintain a natural balance. And last but not the least an oil based nutrient rich in vitamin E to nourish the skin and keep it supple
Skin Care
Being the mirror, the barometer of an individual's health, skin is the clue to one's Ayurvedic constitution. This can be understood by the types of skin that one has. Example: If vata is predominant the skin of a person is dry, rough, cold, thin with fine pores and wrinkled. In case of pitta constitution, the skin is delicate, fair and red toned with freckles, moles or acne and burns easily. If the constitution is of kapha dosha the skin of a person is oily, smooth, moist and thick with a tendency towards large pores.
If the skin is not cared properly and neglected it suffers from premature aging, becomes dull and blemished. Regular consumption of milk, honey and yogurt are good nourishment for skin and prevents premature aging.
Following are some common skin problems and ayurvedic remedy for preventing and curing the same.
Acne and Pimples
The aggravation of tridosha or the three energies of the body results in the occurrence of acne, pimples and blackheads. In all pitta dosha is effected the most and it happens so due to the excessive intake of alcohol, tea, coffee, spicy, oily and fried foods.
Stress, tension, pollution and chemicals are also among the major causes that aggravates Pitta dosha and result in acne, boils, pimples and rashes.
Remedies
A paste made from one teaspoon each of sandalwood powder and turmeric mixed with milk, is very good. A paste of nutmeg and water is also beneficial.
Half a cup of Aloe Vera pulp can be taken internally (Do not take internally if pregnant) or applied externally to the skin. Dosage: Twice a day.
Before going to bed, was the face thoroughly and then apply a paste of 1 Tsp. coriander juice mixed with a pinch of turmeric powder.
For pimples, apply a paste made from one teaspoon of cumin seeds. Remove after one hour.
A paste of fresh fenugreek leaves, applied and washed off with warm water before going to bed prevents pimples.
Pigmentation
Imbalance of Bhrajaka Pitta that colors the skin and can be compared to melanin causes blackening, pigmentation and discoloration of skin. Excessive exposure to the sun, irregular eating, sleeping habits and consumption of foods and drinks that aggravate pitta are responsible for the aggravation of bhrajka pitta also.
Remedies
Grind five almonds and mix with 1 teaspoon of fresh cream and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply this paste to the face and neck. Leave on for about fifteen minutes.
Apply papaya juice, or mashed papaya, to the affected areas.
Grind equal amounts of sesame seeds and turmeric in a small quantity of
Water Apply to the face or discolored skin.
Make a paste from basil (tulsi) leaves and water to use on the affected skin.
Premature Aging
This is due to the aggravation of vata dosha, which naturally increases with age. Thus aging is something that can be prevented to come to early but can't be cured as such. It's a natural ongoing process and beyond human limit to control it.
Aging causes dryness and wrinkling of the skin. Factors like excessive thinking, stress, tension, over work, strain, irregular sleeping and eating habits and cold or dry foods enhance aging. Foods containing artificial flavors, colors, preservatives and chemicals also aggravate the Vata dosha and fasten aging.
Remedies
Massage the face with ghee, almond oil or coconut oil before going to bed.
Use grated cucumber in a face pack.
Apply fresh aloe Vera gel to the skin.
Skin Fitness
Skin Fitness
You've always had good skin. But of late, these niggling, problems have been cropping up. What happened? The answer is that your skin doesn't remain the same throughout your life cycle. Pimples, rashes, burns, pigmentation- all of these can change it.
What you basically need to do is to get a skin care program sooner than you think you need it. Cleansing, toning and moisturizing are still healthy skin care imperatives. Without these basic moves, skin becomes dull, devitalized and cannot defend itself against environmental damage.
Even if you follow this routine religiously, you are likely to face skin problems from time to time. Spots, acne, blotchiness, wrinkles are some of the common problems. But they can all handled with a proper skin care routine or camouflaged with make-up, if nothing else.
Spots:Spots and acne are the result of oily skin, stress and the wrong use of skin care products and cosmetics. These are not easy to get rid of and they tend to crop up at the wrong time. What you need is to give them a hard time by robbing them of a friendly environment.
Oily skin needs to be exfoliated to keep the pores clear and unclogged. Instead of covering spots with a concealer that can further clog your pores, dab on an anti-acne formula and face powder to absorb excess oil.
Stress from job pressures and the demands of motherhood also trigger breakouts. Birth control pills high in certain progestins can cause spots, too. Besides, using the wrong cleanser or cosmetics not meant for your skin type can also lead to clogged pores and blemishes. To keep skin clear, use a pre-soap cleanser meant for your specific skin type, followed by a good moisturizing routine (only on dry areas).
All too many people are driven to the myth that sunlight helps dry out pimples. Exposure to sun may dry skin slightly, but the effect is temporary. In fact, heat, humidity and UV rays can itensify acne by stimulating oil production, leading to thick skin that further causes of clogged pores.
A cosmetic way to camourflage spots and to give your skin a smooth matte finish is to rub some loose face powder into your palms. Rub hands together lightly and apply powder over the face. Then dust off the excess with a powder brush.
Blackhead: To keep problems like blackheads (also associated with oily skin) at bay you need to look for an oily-free and non-clogging formula, not only in skin care products, but even where make-up and sun products are concerned. Resist the temptation to disguise blemishes with heavy make-up - stick to oil-free, oil-absorbing foundation.
The T-Zone: Oily skin can be checked with proper exfoliation, which keeps the pores clear and unclogged. However, if you have a shiny T-Zone, use a face mask to de-shine. Alternatively, blot excess oil with a tissue before touching up with powder.
Wrinkles: wrinkles surface first around eyes and the mouth and are sign that the skin lacks hydration. You can put a hold on them by keeping your skin protected from excessive exposure to sun and using a wrinkle-control formula. Though the sun gives us vitamin D, which is great for the complexion, going out in the sun without proper protection is an open invitation for wrinkles in the long run. It can even lead to melanoma(skin cancer).
So use a sunscreen over the face and body before you expose yourself to the rays of the sun. Don't skip the routine when the sky is overcast, for haze and clouds don't block those damaging UV rays. Wear sunglasses with UV protection and make sure your sunscreens stays put.
Blotchiness: blotchiness is another side effect caused by taking in too much sun. Prevent it with daily sunscreen of at least SPF 15 and regular exfoliation (with masks, scrubs and lotions). To conceal blotchiness, apply foundation and loose face powder to integrate the skin tone. Extreme cases can be tackled with a concealer, followed by loose powder and appropriate make-up. To polish away any uneveness, you can apply a slightly shimmered powder.
Sunburn: never exfoliate your skin when it is sunburnt and in the red, sore, tender stage. Wait until all redness disappears before resuming exfoliation. If you are using a prescription skin-peeling drug for acne or sun damage, ask your doctor if addition exfoliation is advisable.
Broken capillaries or spider veins: These are tiny dilated blood vessels or capillaries, usually visible on the face and legs. Exposure to the sun, wind, spicy food, alcoholic drinks and temperature extremes can aggravate the problem.
Besides the above-mentioned problems, the skin undergoes a change during menopause, too. It becomes much drier and you should use a mild soap to clean it gently. Stepped-up exfoliation will bring new cells to the surface (because cell renewal slows down with age). You can try a good emollient in addition to a moisturizing lotion. Remember that sun damage is additive. As your age, your immune system starts slowing down and can't respond as vigorously to a problem as it used to. Learn it help it along
You've always had good skin. But of late, these niggling, problems have been cropping up. What happened? The answer is that your skin doesn't remain the same throughout your life cycle. Pimples, rashes, burns, pigmentation- all of these can change it.
What you basically need to do is to get a skin care program sooner than you think you need it. Cleansing, toning and moisturizing are still healthy skin care imperatives. Without these basic moves, skin becomes dull, devitalized and cannot defend itself against environmental damage.
Even if you follow this routine religiously, you are likely to face skin problems from time to time. Spots, acne, blotchiness, wrinkles are some of the common problems. But they can all handled with a proper skin care routine or camouflaged with make-up, if nothing else.
Spots:Spots and acne are the result of oily skin, stress and the wrong use of skin care products and cosmetics. These are not easy to get rid of and they tend to crop up at the wrong time. What you need is to give them a hard time by robbing them of a friendly environment.
Oily skin needs to be exfoliated to keep the pores clear and unclogged. Instead of covering spots with a concealer that can further clog your pores, dab on an anti-acne formula and face powder to absorb excess oil.
Stress from job pressures and the demands of motherhood also trigger breakouts. Birth control pills high in certain progestins can cause spots, too. Besides, using the wrong cleanser or cosmetics not meant for your skin type can also lead to clogged pores and blemishes. To keep skin clear, use a pre-soap cleanser meant for your specific skin type, followed by a good moisturizing routine (only on dry areas).
All too many people are driven to the myth that sunlight helps dry out pimples. Exposure to sun may dry skin slightly, but the effect is temporary. In fact, heat, humidity and UV rays can itensify acne by stimulating oil production, leading to thick skin that further causes of clogged pores.
A cosmetic way to camourflage spots and to give your skin a smooth matte finish is to rub some loose face powder into your palms. Rub hands together lightly and apply powder over the face. Then dust off the excess with a powder brush.
Blackhead: To keep problems like blackheads (also associated with oily skin) at bay you need to look for an oily-free and non-clogging formula, not only in skin care products, but even where make-up and sun products are concerned. Resist the temptation to disguise blemishes with heavy make-up - stick to oil-free, oil-absorbing foundation.
The T-Zone: Oily skin can be checked with proper exfoliation, which keeps the pores clear and unclogged. However, if you have a shiny T-Zone, use a face mask to de-shine. Alternatively, blot excess oil with a tissue before touching up with powder.
Wrinkles: wrinkles surface first around eyes and the mouth and are sign that the skin lacks hydration. You can put a hold on them by keeping your skin protected from excessive exposure to sun and using a wrinkle-control formula. Though the sun gives us vitamin D, which is great for the complexion, going out in the sun without proper protection is an open invitation for wrinkles in the long run. It can even lead to melanoma(skin cancer).
So use a sunscreen over the face and body before you expose yourself to the rays of the sun. Don't skip the routine when the sky is overcast, for haze and clouds don't block those damaging UV rays. Wear sunglasses with UV protection and make sure your sunscreens stays put.
Blotchiness: blotchiness is another side effect caused by taking in too much sun. Prevent it with daily sunscreen of at least SPF 15 and regular exfoliation (with masks, scrubs and lotions). To conceal blotchiness, apply foundation and loose face powder to integrate the skin tone. Extreme cases can be tackled with a concealer, followed by loose powder and appropriate make-up. To polish away any uneveness, you can apply a slightly shimmered powder.
Sunburn: never exfoliate your skin when it is sunburnt and in the red, sore, tender stage. Wait until all redness disappears before resuming exfoliation. If you are using a prescription skin-peeling drug for acne or sun damage, ask your doctor if addition exfoliation is advisable.
Broken capillaries or spider veins: These are tiny dilated blood vessels or capillaries, usually visible on the face and legs. Exposure to the sun, wind, spicy food, alcoholic drinks and temperature extremes can aggravate the problem.
Besides the above-mentioned problems, the skin undergoes a change during menopause, too. It becomes much drier and you should use a mild soap to clean it gently. Stepped-up exfoliation will bring new cells to the surface (because cell renewal slows down with age). You can try a good emollient in addition to a moisturizing lotion. Remember that sun damage is additive. As your age, your immune system starts slowing down and can't respond as vigorously to a problem as it used to. Learn it help it along
Makeup Tips
Makeup Tips
Before applying any makeup, you should clean your face with water, which has a pinch of soda bicarbonate in it. Then apply ice cubes on the face. This enables the makeup to last longer.
Concealer is used to hide dark circles around the eyes, and is also used to cover blemishes and scars. A beige concealer is ideal for dark skins and one with natural tones for fairer skins. This should be spread evenly using a dry sponge or your fingers. Now, apply the foundation.
Foundation is used to enhance the colour of the complexion. Three basic types may be used, depending upon your skin type. For dry skin, liquid foundation works best whereas semi-liquid is best for combination skins. Foundation can be applied with a sponge and blended into the hairline and along the jaw for a natural finish.
Translucent powder is used to dust the face. This helps that the foundation to stay on longer. Excess powder should be brushed off. Blusher should be blended evenly along the cheekbones.
Lips
The lips should be outlined with a lip liner so that the lipstick does not bleed. Lipstick is then applied and blended with the lip liner. Then dust your lips with powder so that the lipstick lasts for a longer period of time, and then apply the last coat.
Eyes
Eye shadow colours should be selected carefully, light shadow is applied on to the lids to create a base. Darker eye shadow is then used at the outer corners of the eyes, to enhance the eyes. A kajal or kohl stick can be used in the inner eyelid to make the eyes appear even more dramatic. Mascara applied to the lashes increases this effect. Eyebrows should be sharp and tidy and should be free of all traces of makeup.
Making UpMake-up has the power to put you in the mood for whatever lies ahead. It can help make you the person you want to be and put you more at ease and pleased with yourself.
Use make-up to show another side of your personality, possibly one you never knew you had. Sometimes glamorous, sometimes pretty, and sometimes natural …the choice is as wide as you want to make it. Believe in experimenting with colors: a new approach can create the most successful results.
If you do not know how to apply your make-up properly, even the most creative finished effect will look brash than beautiful. But if you spend time in front of the mirror practicing the ground rules and acquiring the tricks of the trade……………you will soon learn to have a perfect face-on.
Essential tools
You don’t need to spend a fortune on your equipment but having the proper tools really does make applying make-up much easier.
Cotton wool: For removing make-up.
Cotton buds: For removing and applying eye make-up.
Tweezers: For shaping your brows.
Eyelash curlers: For curling eyelashes.
Make-up sponges: Using the right sponge will help applying foundation
better without a streaky effect.
Powder applicators: A soft puff is ideal to apply loose powder. brush off excess with a large dome shaped brush.
Blusher brush: Use a soft ,wide brush to prevent harsh lines and a smaller brush for controlled blending.
Eyeshadow brushes: Use a large brush for applying eyeshadow to the whole eye area and for blending, a medium one for the lids, and a small one for covering the socket line and applying highlighter.
Brow brush: The two-in-one tool for brushing eyebrows into shape and combing out mascara from lashes.
Lash separator: Used after mascara has been applied and allowed to dry, this brush separates lashes and prevents clogging.
Lip brush: A firm-tipped lip brush gives you greater control over applying color than a conventional lipstick and also allows you to build up a deeper shade.
Sharpener: For sharpening lip and eye pencils.
Special tips
Make-up that looks just fine in the sunshine can look faded and washed out under artificial lighting. Use warmer and deeper colors for the evenings.
If your face is too full, use a little blusher on the high part of the cheek, closer to the nose. Blend lightly across the too full area.
If your face is too slender, create an illusion of width. Place your blusher on thecurve of the cheek, slightly away from the nose. Blend well, out and above to the temples.
If your face is square and heavy along the jaw line, soften the angles of the jawline by shadowing. Pat on blusher, then blend down across the square part.
A soft blending of rouge under the jaw line or chin takes away a heavy drooping effect .Your jaw line can look more clear-cut with this trickfor the evening.
To accentuate the cheek bones for evening makeup, use a liquid foundationa shade lighter than usual. Apply it in little dabs on the top of the cheek bones and on to the corners of the nose. Blend well.
To focus extra attention on eyes and mouth, circle the outer edge of the face very lightly with blusher .Blend with feathery strokes.
Powder blushers give you color without shine--- oily skins should avoid cream blushers.
Does your face look terribly oily halfway through the day? Your complexion can look and stay natural and soft all day if you try this trick:Take a blusher brush, clean it with cool water and allow to dry. Then sprinklesome baby powder into the open bristles. Dust this powder over your face before applying your foundation.
If your complexion is too sallow ,don’t be tempted by a clear beige or very pink foundation. Avoid yellow or green colors in make –up, these two colors bring out the sallow color of your skin. Go in for warm beige foundation and clear blue eyeshadows. Lipsticks are best in medium tones.
If your complexion is too pale, don’t use a pink foundation. Choose a clear natural foundation for a natural look. Avoid very dark eyeshadows and lipsticks. They would make you look too intense and tired. Go in for dull rust or brown eyeshades. Use a soft blusher on cheeks, chin and forehead.
Never try to match eye shadow color to your eye color and lip color to nail color ---------- result will be too dated.
If you wear false eyelashes, make them look natural by brushing both the false and real lashes with a little mascara after putting them on.
To achieve a subtler look, instead of using eyeliner draw the thinnest possible line at the roots of the eyelashes with a soft dark brown eyeshadow.
In winter use pearly-gray and shell-beige eyeshadows. Avoid highlighters during the daytime, as they would look too harsh.
If your lips are too thin and straight, apply your lipstick from slightly above the line of the upper lip and slightly below the line of the lower lip. Curve the linesslightly with a lip pencil. Make your lips look fuller by using a darker and richer shade of lipstick in the center and a lighter one in the corner
Before applying any makeup, you should clean your face with water, which has a pinch of soda bicarbonate in it. Then apply ice cubes on the face. This enables the makeup to last longer.
Concealer is used to hide dark circles around the eyes, and is also used to cover blemishes and scars. A beige concealer is ideal for dark skins and one with natural tones for fairer skins. This should be spread evenly using a dry sponge or your fingers. Now, apply the foundation.
Foundation is used to enhance the colour of the complexion. Three basic types may be used, depending upon your skin type. For dry skin, liquid foundation works best whereas semi-liquid is best for combination skins. Foundation can be applied with a sponge and blended into the hairline and along the jaw for a natural finish.
Translucent powder is used to dust the face. This helps that the foundation to stay on longer. Excess powder should be brushed off. Blusher should be blended evenly along the cheekbones.
Lips
The lips should be outlined with a lip liner so that the lipstick does not bleed. Lipstick is then applied and blended with the lip liner. Then dust your lips with powder so that the lipstick lasts for a longer period of time, and then apply the last coat.
Eyes
Eye shadow colours should be selected carefully, light shadow is applied on to the lids to create a base. Darker eye shadow is then used at the outer corners of the eyes, to enhance the eyes. A kajal or kohl stick can be used in the inner eyelid to make the eyes appear even more dramatic. Mascara applied to the lashes increases this effect. Eyebrows should be sharp and tidy and should be free of all traces of makeup.
Making UpMake-up has the power to put you in the mood for whatever lies ahead. It can help make you the person you want to be and put you more at ease and pleased with yourself.
Use make-up to show another side of your personality, possibly one you never knew you had. Sometimes glamorous, sometimes pretty, and sometimes natural …the choice is as wide as you want to make it. Believe in experimenting with colors: a new approach can create the most successful results.
If you do not know how to apply your make-up properly, even the most creative finished effect will look brash than beautiful. But if you spend time in front of the mirror practicing the ground rules and acquiring the tricks of the trade……………you will soon learn to have a perfect face-on.
Essential tools
You don’t need to spend a fortune on your equipment but having the proper tools really does make applying make-up much easier.
Cotton wool: For removing make-up.
Cotton buds: For removing and applying eye make-up.
Tweezers: For shaping your brows.
Eyelash curlers: For curling eyelashes.
Make-up sponges: Using the right sponge will help applying foundation
better without a streaky effect.
Powder applicators: A soft puff is ideal to apply loose powder. brush off excess with a large dome shaped brush.
Blusher brush: Use a soft ,wide brush to prevent harsh lines and a smaller brush for controlled blending.
Eyeshadow brushes: Use a large brush for applying eyeshadow to the whole eye area and for blending, a medium one for the lids, and a small one for covering the socket line and applying highlighter.
Brow brush: The two-in-one tool for brushing eyebrows into shape and combing out mascara from lashes.
Lash separator: Used after mascara has been applied and allowed to dry, this brush separates lashes and prevents clogging.
Lip brush: A firm-tipped lip brush gives you greater control over applying color than a conventional lipstick and also allows you to build up a deeper shade.
Sharpener: For sharpening lip and eye pencils.
Special tips
Make-up that looks just fine in the sunshine can look faded and washed out under artificial lighting. Use warmer and deeper colors for the evenings.
If your face is too full, use a little blusher on the high part of the cheek, closer to the nose. Blend lightly across the too full area.
If your face is too slender, create an illusion of width. Place your blusher on thecurve of the cheek, slightly away from the nose. Blend well, out and above to the temples.
If your face is square and heavy along the jaw line, soften the angles of the jawline by shadowing. Pat on blusher, then blend down across the square part.
A soft blending of rouge under the jaw line or chin takes away a heavy drooping effect .Your jaw line can look more clear-cut with this trickfor the evening.
To accentuate the cheek bones for evening makeup, use a liquid foundationa shade lighter than usual. Apply it in little dabs on the top of the cheek bones and on to the corners of the nose. Blend well.
To focus extra attention on eyes and mouth, circle the outer edge of the face very lightly with blusher .Blend with feathery strokes.
Powder blushers give you color without shine--- oily skins should avoid cream blushers.
Does your face look terribly oily halfway through the day? Your complexion can look and stay natural and soft all day if you try this trick:Take a blusher brush, clean it with cool water and allow to dry. Then sprinklesome baby powder into the open bristles. Dust this powder over your face before applying your foundation.
If your complexion is too sallow ,don’t be tempted by a clear beige or very pink foundation. Avoid yellow or green colors in make –up, these two colors bring out the sallow color of your skin. Go in for warm beige foundation and clear blue eyeshadows. Lipsticks are best in medium tones.
If your complexion is too pale, don’t use a pink foundation. Choose a clear natural foundation for a natural look. Avoid very dark eyeshadows and lipsticks. They would make you look too intense and tired. Go in for dull rust or brown eyeshades. Use a soft blusher on cheeks, chin and forehead.
Never try to match eye shadow color to your eye color and lip color to nail color ---------- result will be too dated.
If you wear false eyelashes, make them look natural by brushing both the false and real lashes with a little mascara after putting them on.
To achieve a subtler look, instead of using eyeliner draw the thinnest possible line at the roots of the eyelashes with a soft dark brown eyeshadow.
In winter use pearly-gray and shell-beige eyeshadows. Avoid highlighters during the daytime, as they would look too harsh.
If your lips are too thin and straight, apply your lipstick from slightly above the line of the upper lip and slightly below the line of the lower lip. Curve the linesslightly with a lip pencil. Make your lips look fuller by using a darker and richer shade of lipstick in the center and a lighter one in the corner
Eyes
THE EYES
Eyebrows shouldn't be overlooked. Brows frame and bring focus to the eyes. If yours are sparse, defining them can enhance your eyes dramatically: brush the hair down, draw a line along the base at the roots with an eyebrow pencil, then brush the hairs up again.
If you have deep set eyes, keep your eyebrows thinner to show them off more. If you have widely spaced eyes, make them look closer by drawing your eyebrows in nearer together, extending eyeliner beyond the inner corners of your eyes and blend in eyeshade towards the nose. Anyone over 18 should avoid wearing foundation at the outer corner of the eye where it bunches up into lines: just dust with powder instead.
Think about the structure and contour of your eyes and what imperfections you'd like to correct. For example, a prominent brow bone can be taken away by shading. Apply light shades to highlight and dark to disguise, then add colour to your eyelids.
You should bear your complexion in mind when buying eye shadow. Most women forget about their skin tone, but a blue powder can look mauve over pinkie skin or greenish if you have yellow tones. Donut test shades on the back of your hand as the colour is different from your eyelids. You can only get the palate shade by blanking out the lid area with a pale opaque foundation.
Always start by shaping the eye with pencil before applying eye shadow – if you make a mistake its easier to correct. Then use lighter tones on the inside lid near the nose and on the outer brow bone. Darker shades should lift the shape at the outside corner of the lids to make eyes look younger. Lastly, for people who cant carry off coloured eyelashes, a black coat of mascara followed by another shade like blue or purple gives a hint of colour.
Blue mascara at the tips of lashes makes eyes look bigger. Define fine or pale eyebrows with a little mascara, then lightly touch them with hairspray to keep them in place. And doting highlighter at the inner corner of the eyes makes them look brighter.
Back
Eyebrows shouldn't be overlooked. Brows frame and bring focus to the eyes. If yours are sparse, defining them can enhance your eyes dramatically: brush the hair down, draw a line along the base at the roots with an eyebrow pencil, then brush the hairs up again.
If you have deep set eyes, keep your eyebrows thinner to show them off more. If you have widely spaced eyes, make them look closer by drawing your eyebrows in nearer together, extending eyeliner beyond the inner corners of your eyes and blend in eyeshade towards the nose. Anyone over 18 should avoid wearing foundation at the outer corner of the eye where it bunches up into lines: just dust with powder instead.
Think about the structure and contour of your eyes and what imperfections you'd like to correct. For example, a prominent brow bone can be taken away by shading. Apply light shades to highlight and dark to disguise, then add colour to your eyelids.
You should bear your complexion in mind when buying eye shadow. Most women forget about their skin tone, but a blue powder can look mauve over pinkie skin or greenish if you have yellow tones. Donut test shades on the back of your hand as the colour is different from your eyelids. You can only get the palate shade by blanking out the lid area with a pale opaque foundation.
Always start by shaping the eye with pencil before applying eye shadow – if you make a mistake its easier to correct. Then use lighter tones on the inside lid near the nose and on the outer brow bone. Darker shades should lift the shape at the outside corner of the lids to make eyes look younger. Lastly, for people who cant carry off coloured eyelashes, a black coat of mascara followed by another shade like blue or purple gives a hint of colour.
Blue mascara at the tips of lashes makes eyes look bigger. Define fine or pale eyebrows with a little mascara, then lightly touch them with hairspray to keep them in place. And doting highlighter at the inner corner of the eyes makes them look brighter.
Back
Hairstyles
Hairstyles
The right hairstyle for you
Tired of trying out different hairstyles and coming up with ghastly results? Many of us donut realize that only a particular kind of style will go well with our facial structure.
The right way, say stylists, is to find what works with the structure of the face and looks flattering. A flattering hairstyle can be the most important single factor in your appearance. Not only does it tell about your character, it balances your body, frames your face and complements your clothes and lifestyle. A really professional haircut is a valuable investment, because it will make you feel good as well as look good.
When choosing a new hairstyle you should look carefully at the shape of your face.
What kind of face do you have?
Oval Face
If you have an oval face, you are lucky, as any style will suit you. A long face is best complemented by short hair that is quite full, with a fringe. Don't go for a severe long hairdo that will only make your face look longer.
Round Face
If you have a round face, you should aim to add length. If you don't want long hair, part your hair on the side or add fullness on top. Avoid a neat bob with a fringe. A round face gives an overall appearance of roundness. A full face is flattered by a short, layered cut. The top of the head should be given a ‘long’ look with a layered, curly style, extending to the back. If making a topknot, get a lot of elongated tendrils out. That balances your face. A lot of volume to the hair will give it a flat look. A severe, tied back style also makes the face look rounder. Avoid it.
Square Face
A wide forehead and square jawbone means you have a square face. A style with the hair 2.5 cm, or so below the chin sits pretty on a square face. If your hair is thick or wavy, you can go all one length. With straight or fine hair, you can opt for a slight angle in the front. Donut go in for bobs. Blunt clipped bangs are also not recommended because they would emphasize the squareness of your face. All a square face needs is a little softening if the jawline is too heavy. Draw the attention away from the jaw with a diagonal fringe forward from the hairline and around the ears if you wear your hair up, or long loose hair with a bit of bounce below chin level.
Heart Shape
A Heart shaped face is also easy to flatter. All you need to do is avoid a heavy slab of fringe that will make your face into a triangle. A softer fringe will help. Try a soft fringe too for a high forehead, or try a very heavy fringe that stars quite a way back ans is 'V' - shaped, with the point of the 'V' in the centre of your forehead. If you have a receding or double chin, you need to draw attention away from it. Your hair will look best either piled to the top and back of your head, to balance the chin, or hanging loose to hide it. A large nose needs a short, fluffy style anything sleek or straight will only over-emphasize it.
Long Face
A long, thin face with a narrow chin is oblong. A short, perky bob will go very nicely with your kind of looks. It should be short at the back and the angled chin length, in the front. Wearing it with a side parting, with bangs brushed to the side, rounds out an oblong face. A longer bob, about five-cm, below the chin
The right hairstyle for you
Tired of trying out different hairstyles and coming up with ghastly results? Many of us donut realize that only a particular kind of style will go well with our facial structure.
The right way, say stylists, is to find what works with the structure of the face and looks flattering. A flattering hairstyle can be the most important single factor in your appearance. Not only does it tell about your character, it balances your body, frames your face and complements your clothes and lifestyle. A really professional haircut is a valuable investment, because it will make you feel good as well as look good.
When choosing a new hairstyle you should look carefully at the shape of your face.
What kind of face do you have?
Oval Face
If you have an oval face, you are lucky, as any style will suit you. A long face is best complemented by short hair that is quite full, with a fringe. Don't go for a severe long hairdo that will only make your face look longer.
Round Face
If you have a round face, you should aim to add length. If you don't want long hair, part your hair on the side or add fullness on top. Avoid a neat bob with a fringe. A round face gives an overall appearance of roundness. A full face is flattered by a short, layered cut. The top of the head should be given a ‘long’ look with a layered, curly style, extending to the back. If making a topknot, get a lot of elongated tendrils out. That balances your face. A lot of volume to the hair will give it a flat look. A severe, tied back style also makes the face look rounder. Avoid it.
Square Face
A wide forehead and square jawbone means you have a square face. A style with the hair 2.5 cm, or so below the chin sits pretty on a square face. If your hair is thick or wavy, you can go all one length. With straight or fine hair, you can opt for a slight angle in the front. Donut go in for bobs. Blunt clipped bangs are also not recommended because they would emphasize the squareness of your face. All a square face needs is a little softening if the jawline is too heavy. Draw the attention away from the jaw with a diagonal fringe forward from the hairline and around the ears if you wear your hair up, or long loose hair with a bit of bounce below chin level.
Heart Shape
A Heart shaped face is also easy to flatter. All you need to do is avoid a heavy slab of fringe that will make your face into a triangle. A softer fringe will help. Try a soft fringe too for a high forehead, or try a very heavy fringe that stars quite a way back ans is 'V' - shaped, with the point of the 'V' in the centre of your forehead. If you have a receding or double chin, you need to draw attention away from it. Your hair will look best either piled to the top and back of your head, to balance the chin, or hanging loose to hide it. A large nose needs a short, fluffy style anything sleek or straight will only over-emphasize it.
Long Face
A long, thin face with a narrow chin is oblong. A short, perky bob will go very nicely with your kind of looks. It should be short at the back and the angled chin length, in the front. Wearing it with a side parting, with bangs brushed to the side, rounds out an oblong face. A longer bob, about five-cm, below the chin
Bathroom Essentials & Body Bath
Bathroom Essentials & Body Bath
Bath Smart Good grooming and basic beauty care begin in the bathroom. Bathing can be fun, not a chore and can make you feel fresh and glowing. Personal freshness is essential for everyone. The bacteria on the skin attacking the sweat when it reaches the surface of the skin cause body odder. Perspiration odour doesn't start until about the age of 10, when the special apocrine glands develop. These are found mainly under the arms and between the legs
Once a week, take time to have a lazy bath night, and turn it into a beauty treatment. Make the bath water soft and sweet smelling by adding some bubble bath, bath salts or bath oils. Alternatively, you can soften the water with a large spoonful or borax or powdered water softener.
Your bath wont do you any good if you stay in it so long, as soaking will dry your skin, or if is too hot, as this too is very drying. Twenty minutes is the longest you should linger, and 38o C(100 oF) is the highest temperature you should have the water. If you are not washing your hair, protect it with a shower cap, as the steam will make curly hair more frizzy or straight hair lank.
Other things you might need for your beautiful bath are:
A loofah, friction strap or mitt
A sponge
A back brush
A nail brush
A pumice stone
Soap or body shampoo
Talcum powder
Body lotion
While you are in a bath, rub yourself briskly with a loofah, friction strap or back brush. This makes your skin tingle, improving your circulation and encouraging blemishes to disappear, but be careful if you have delicate skin.
Scrub your feet thoroughly, and follow the foot care routine. The hot steam of the bath will open the skin pores on your face. If you suffer from blackheads, you should be able to press them out gently with your fingertips and remove with a clean tissue. Or try the new blackhead removal strips that are available in the market.
While you are relaxing in the bath, this is a good time to apply a face mask- something you can do occasionally than every week.
If you are not giving yourself a face mask and have oily skin, wash your face with soap and water. If you have dry skin, spread moisturizer on your face and let your steam help it to sink into the pores. After your bath, rub yourself dry briskly with a fairly rough towel. Now is the time to deal with unwanted body hair. It is a matter of personal choice whether you get rid of on your legs and under your arms.
There are many ways of dealing with unwanted hair: shaving, using a depilatory cream or lotion or waxing. If using a depilatory cream, follow the manufacturers instructions carefully. They may advise you not to use it immediately after a bath.
Even if you are careful about the time you spend in the bath and the temperature of the water, your skin will still need help, after your bath, to re-establish its correct moisture balance. Use body lotion, and then dust yourself with talc.
After a bath, your nails are softened, and this is a good time to give yourself a manicure and pedicure.
Milk, Oil and Honey Bath
(To soften and moisturize your skin).
Ingredients: warm water, one cup of powdered skimmed milk, one teaspoon oil (baby or vegetable), two teaspoons clear honey dissolved in one cup hot water.
Duration: 20 minutes
Directions: add all ingredients to water, then lie back and relax for 20 minutes. Maintain the temperature by adding hot water as necessary. Donut dry too vigorously afterwards.
Sea salt Bath
(To cleansing bath for oily skin)
Ingredients: Warm water, two cups of sea salt, additional salt.
Duration: Ten minutes in all (five in the water).
Directions: Pour the two cups of salt into bath water to dissolve. Meanwhile, massage the additional salt over your body with the loofah or friction mitt. Get into the bath, rinse away the salt and soak for five minutes. Use plenty of body lotion afterwards.
Mint Bath
(To refresh and revive you)
Ingredients: Tepid water, two tablespoons dried mint leaves steeped in boiling water for one hour then strained so that only water goes into the bath.
Duration: Ten minutes
Directions: Add the mint infusion after running the bath. Donut have the water too deep as this will dilute the benefits. Lie back for the first few minutes. Wash briskly with the loofah or friction strap or mitt for the remaining five minutes.
Bath Smart Good grooming and basic beauty care begin in the bathroom. Bathing can be fun, not a chore and can make you feel fresh and glowing. Personal freshness is essential for everyone. The bacteria on the skin attacking the sweat when it reaches the surface of the skin cause body odder. Perspiration odour doesn't start until about the age of 10, when the special apocrine glands develop. These are found mainly under the arms and between the legs
Once a week, take time to have a lazy bath night, and turn it into a beauty treatment. Make the bath water soft and sweet smelling by adding some bubble bath, bath salts or bath oils. Alternatively, you can soften the water with a large spoonful or borax or powdered water softener.
Your bath wont do you any good if you stay in it so long, as soaking will dry your skin, or if is too hot, as this too is very drying. Twenty minutes is the longest you should linger, and 38o C(100 oF) is the highest temperature you should have the water. If you are not washing your hair, protect it with a shower cap, as the steam will make curly hair more frizzy or straight hair lank.
Other things you might need for your beautiful bath are:
A loofah, friction strap or mitt
A sponge
A back brush
A nail brush
A pumice stone
Soap or body shampoo
Talcum powder
Body lotion
While you are in a bath, rub yourself briskly with a loofah, friction strap or back brush. This makes your skin tingle, improving your circulation and encouraging blemishes to disappear, but be careful if you have delicate skin.
Scrub your feet thoroughly, and follow the foot care routine. The hot steam of the bath will open the skin pores on your face. If you suffer from blackheads, you should be able to press them out gently with your fingertips and remove with a clean tissue. Or try the new blackhead removal strips that are available in the market.
While you are relaxing in the bath, this is a good time to apply a face mask- something you can do occasionally than every week.
If you are not giving yourself a face mask and have oily skin, wash your face with soap and water. If you have dry skin, spread moisturizer on your face and let your steam help it to sink into the pores. After your bath, rub yourself dry briskly with a fairly rough towel. Now is the time to deal with unwanted body hair. It is a matter of personal choice whether you get rid of on your legs and under your arms.
There are many ways of dealing with unwanted hair: shaving, using a depilatory cream or lotion or waxing. If using a depilatory cream, follow the manufacturers instructions carefully. They may advise you not to use it immediately after a bath.
Even if you are careful about the time you spend in the bath and the temperature of the water, your skin will still need help, after your bath, to re-establish its correct moisture balance. Use body lotion, and then dust yourself with talc.
After a bath, your nails are softened, and this is a good time to give yourself a manicure and pedicure.
Milk, Oil and Honey Bath
(To soften and moisturize your skin).
Ingredients: warm water, one cup of powdered skimmed milk, one teaspoon oil (baby or vegetable), two teaspoons clear honey dissolved in one cup hot water.
Duration: 20 minutes
Directions: add all ingredients to water, then lie back and relax for 20 minutes. Maintain the temperature by adding hot water as necessary. Donut dry too vigorously afterwards.
Sea salt Bath
(To cleansing bath for oily skin)
Ingredients: Warm water, two cups of sea salt, additional salt.
Duration: Ten minutes in all (five in the water).
Directions: Pour the two cups of salt into bath water to dissolve. Meanwhile, massage the additional salt over your body with the loofah or friction mitt. Get into the bath, rinse away the salt and soak for five minutes. Use plenty of body lotion afterwards.
Mint Bath
(To refresh and revive you)
Ingredients: Tepid water, two tablespoons dried mint leaves steeped in boiling water for one hour then strained so that only water goes into the bath.
Duration: Ten minutes
Directions: Add the mint infusion after running the bath. Donut have the water too deep as this will dilute the benefits. Lie back for the first few minutes. Wash briskly with the loofah or friction strap or mitt for the remaining five minutes.
Healthy Hair
Healthy Hair
Frequently asked questions about Hair care
Is shampooing daily harmful for the hair?
Everyday washing shouldn't be a concern as long as you are using a mild shampoo, which can suit your normal hair. Something that nourishes while it cleanses. If your hair doesn't feel unclean, just sweaty it is okay to simply rinse out the sweat too if you choose to.
Also, after wash, keep your damp hair in a turbaned towel for about 15 minutes. Finger comb it in a gentle massage like movements and only brush gently.
The right way of washing Hair
Oiling my hair every time does not help it in any way. On the contrary, you end up using more shampoo every time, damaging the hairs natural oil balance, making it dry. Once a fortnight oiling is just fine.
To wash your hair, always wet it first before applying shampoo. Then, lather it by massaging with your fingertips. Rinse thoroughly until squeaky clean. Pat dry and finger comb out the tangles or use a wide tooth comb.
How to treat split ends?
Split ends, which are mainly caused when your hairs cell fail to hold together are result of exposure to harsh elements, chemicals or even excessive brushing.
The right kind of shampoo will minimize hair damage. Meanwhile it is also important to replenish ceramides, which are hairs natural cement, and is responsible for holding the hair cells together. A ceramides enriched shampoo will help repair hair fibre and reduce split ends.
To maintain Oily Hair
Oily hair always goes with any oily skin. The scalp has a tendency to secrete excess oil, which makes it lank and greasy. It is therefore important to keep the scalp will only activate the oil glands causing further oiliness. So will combing more than required more so ever, do not succumb to the temptations of a harsh shampoo, which temporarily restores your hair but in the long run harms it.
Using a special shampoo for oily hair is the best, which is gentle enough to be used often. Also essential is to rinse at the shampoo thoroughly finishing with cold water.
For thin and limp Hair
Thin, limp, hair does not have a tendency to fall flat and dead. What you need is a volume booster. For starters choose your shampoo carefully. Ordinary shampoos donut do much for your kind of hair. Look up a shampoo especially for limp hair
Secondly, donut comb your hair when wet, Let it dry naturally and finger comb it. A hair dryer can boost your hair for a while but on a regular basis can prove harmful for your hair. Then, brush your brush straight from your scalp and shake it free.
For Dry Brittle Hair
First check your shampoo! If you are using a harsh, unsuitable shampoo, it will not only dry your hair, it will cause breakage and dry scalp may turn flaky and cause a lot of other problems.
Use an especially mild shampoo made for dry hair. One fortified with essential oils to replace the last nourishment is ideal. A good conditioner also helps soften dry hair. After wash keep your damp hair in a turbaned towel for about 15 minutes. Finger comb it in a gentle massage like movements-this-will activate the oil glands in your scalp. Then brush it gently. Oil massages followed by a steamy, hot towel on your head every 15 days will also help get rid of dryness
Frequently asked questions about Hair care
Is shampooing daily harmful for the hair?
Everyday washing shouldn't be a concern as long as you are using a mild shampoo, which can suit your normal hair. Something that nourishes while it cleanses. If your hair doesn't feel unclean, just sweaty it is okay to simply rinse out the sweat too if you choose to.
Also, after wash, keep your damp hair in a turbaned towel for about 15 minutes. Finger comb it in a gentle massage like movements and only brush gently.
The right way of washing Hair
Oiling my hair every time does not help it in any way. On the contrary, you end up using more shampoo every time, damaging the hairs natural oil balance, making it dry. Once a fortnight oiling is just fine.
To wash your hair, always wet it first before applying shampoo. Then, lather it by massaging with your fingertips. Rinse thoroughly until squeaky clean. Pat dry and finger comb out the tangles or use a wide tooth comb.
How to treat split ends?
Split ends, which are mainly caused when your hairs cell fail to hold together are result of exposure to harsh elements, chemicals or even excessive brushing.
The right kind of shampoo will minimize hair damage. Meanwhile it is also important to replenish ceramides, which are hairs natural cement, and is responsible for holding the hair cells together. A ceramides enriched shampoo will help repair hair fibre and reduce split ends.
To maintain Oily Hair
Oily hair always goes with any oily skin. The scalp has a tendency to secrete excess oil, which makes it lank and greasy. It is therefore important to keep the scalp will only activate the oil glands causing further oiliness. So will combing more than required more so ever, do not succumb to the temptations of a harsh shampoo, which temporarily restores your hair but in the long run harms it.
Using a special shampoo for oily hair is the best, which is gentle enough to be used often. Also essential is to rinse at the shampoo thoroughly finishing with cold water.
For thin and limp Hair
Thin, limp, hair does not have a tendency to fall flat and dead. What you need is a volume booster. For starters choose your shampoo carefully. Ordinary shampoos donut do much for your kind of hair. Look up a shampoo especially for limp hair
Secondly, donut comb your hair when wet, Let it dry naturally and finger comb it. A hair dryer can boost your hair for a while but on a regular basis can prove harmful for your hair. Then, brush your brush straight from your scalp and shake it free.
For Dry Brittle Hair
First check your shampoo! If you are using a harsh, unsuitable shampoo, it will not only dry your hair, it will cause breakage and dry scalp may turn flaky and cause a lot of other problems.
Use an especially mild shampoo made for dry hair. One fortified with essential oils to replace the last nourishment is ideal. A good conditioner also helps soften dry hair. After wash keep your damp hair in a turbaned towel for about 15 minutes. Finger comb it in a gentle massage like movements-this-will activate the oil glands in your scalp. Then brush it gently. Oil massages followed by a steamy, hot towel on your head every 15 days will also help get rid of dryness
Friday, April 25, 2008
Beauty Tips
Honey Milk Facial Cream
To make your skin glow and flawless.
Materials: Honey Milk
Procedure: In a piece of container mix honey and milk. Stir until it became creamy. Apply into face and leave it for about 15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water.
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Lemon-Cucumber Whitening Extract
This recipe is good in whitening dark underarms and neck.
You will need: Lemons ,Cucumber , Turmeric
Procedure: Extract lemon juice using juicer, and extract the same with cucumber. Mix lemon and cucumber juice together with a pinch of turmeric. Apply to neck or underarms daily and leave this for 20 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
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Apple Slices Oil Control Solution
This recipe is good for oily face. It cleans the pores and controls oily secretion.
You will need: Apple
Procedure: Thinly slice the apple and rub gently onto oily skin.
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Orange Peels Natural Bleach
For fairer skin and natural skin bleaching.
You will need: Orange peels ,Milk
Procedure: Dry the orange peels under the heat of the sun. Leave it until it is dry enough to be powdered into pieces. Mix the powder and the milk thoroughly and apply this paste in the skin for 25 minutes. Wash off with water and do this regularly or alternate days.
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Tomato-Honey Skin Toner
For a clearer and more vibrant well-toned skin
You will need: Tomato juice ,Honey
Procedure: Mix the tomato juice with honey until it appears sticky. Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck. Wash it after 15 minutes.
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Tomato-Curd Facial Moisturizer
This recipe will moisturize your skin in natural way.
You will need: 2 tablespoon of tomato juice 4 teaspoon of curd
Procedure: Mix the 2 tablespoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curds, mix thoroughly until everything goes creamy. Apply on the face for 20 minutes and rinse face with lukewarm water.
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Cabbage and Yeast Facial Cream
To remove skin blemishes and takes away stubborn skin dirt.
You will need: Pinch of yeast 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice
Procedure: Chop the leaves and the cabbage buds, extract the cabbage juice by any means of juicer. Get 2 teaspoon of the juice and add a pinch of yeast. Apply it to face and leave the cream for 20-30 minutes. Wash face with lukewarm water and pat dry.
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Carrots and Pineapple Extract
To renew skin cells into youthful glow.
You will need: Pineapple juice Carrot juice
Procedure: Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together. Apply on face by using cotton balls. Leave the extract for 15 minutes and wash face with lukewarm water. Repeat this remedy as often as your want.
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Carrots and Pineapple Extract
To renew skin cells into youthful glow.
You will need: Pineapple juice Carrot juice
Procedure: Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together. Apply on face by using cotton balls. Leave the extract for 15 minutes and wash face with lukewarm water. Repeat this remedy as often as your want.
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Oily Skin Controlling Cream
To extensively remove oily skin that may cause pimples.
You will need: Oatmeal Egg white
Procedure: Mix the egg white with oatmeal enough to create a creamy paste. Mix thoroughly and apply to face and neck liberally. Leave the mixture for 20 minutes and wash with clean water. Do this as often as needed.
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To make your skin glow and flawless.
Materials: Honey Milk
Procedure: In a piece of container mix honey and milk. Stir until it became creamy. Apply into face and leave it for about 15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water.
----------------------------------------
Lemon-Cucumber Whitening Extract
This recipe is good in whitening dark underarms and neck.
You will need: Lemons ,Cucumber , Turmeric
Procedure: Extract lemon juice using juicer, and extract the same with cucumber. Mix lemon and cucumber juice together with a pinch of turmeric. Apply to neck or underarms daily and leave this for 20 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
----------------------------------------
Apple Slices Oil Control Solution
This recipe is good for oily face. It cleans the pores and controls oily secretion.
You will need: Apple
Procedure: Thinly slice the apple and rub gently onto oily skin.
----------------------------------------
Orange Peels Natural Bleach
For fairer skin and natural skin bleaching.
You will need: Orange peels ,Milk
Procedure: Dry the orange peels under the heat of the sun. Leave it until it is dry enough to be powdered into pieces. Mix the powder and the milk thoroughly and apply this paste in the skin for 25 minutes. Wash off with water and do this regularly or alternate days.
----------------------------------------
Tomato-Honey Skin Toner
For a clearer and more vibrant well-toned skin
You will need: Tomato juice ,Honey
Procedure: Mix the tomato juice with honey until it appears sticky. Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck. Wash it after 15 minutes.
----------------------------------------
Tomato-Curd Facial Moisturizer
This recipe will moisturize your skin in natural way.
You will need: 2 tablespoon of tomato juice 4 teaspoon of curd
Procedure: Mix the 2 tablespoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curds, mix thoroughly until everything goes creamy. Apply on the face for 20 minutes and rinse face with lukewarm water.
----------------------------------------
Cabbage and Yeast Facial Cream
To remove skin blemishes and takes away stubborn skin dirt.
You will need: Pinch of yeast 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice
Procedure: Chop the leaves and the cabbage buds, extract the cabbage juice by any means of juicer. Get 2 teaspoon of the juice and add a pinch of yeast. Apply it to face and leave the cream for 20-30 minutes. Wash face with lukewarm water and pat dry.
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Carrots and Pineapple Extract
To renew skin cells into youthful glow.
You will need: Pineapple juice Carrot juice
Procedure: Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together. Apply on face by using cotton balls. Leave the extract for 15 minutes and wash face with lukewarm water. Repeat this remedy as often as your want.
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Carrots and Pineapple Extract
To renew skin cells into youthful glow.
You will need: Pineapple juice Carrot juice
Procedure: Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together. Apply on face by using cotton balls. Leave the extract for 15 minutes and wash face with lukewarm water. Repeat this remedy as often as your want.
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Oily Skin Controlling Cream
To extensively remove oily skin that may cause pimples.
You will need: Oatmeal Egg white
Procedure: Mix the egg white with oatmeal enough to create a creamy paste. Mix thoroughly and apply to face and neck liberally. Leave the mixture for 20 minutes and wash with clean water. Do this as often as needed.
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