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Quick Herbal Tips
Down the ages, Indian women have used simple, effective home-made remedies to look after their skin.
Skin Cleanser:
Found in your own kitchen is a simple, chemical free cleanser good ol unboiled milk. All you need to do is dip a piece of cotton wool in milk and wipe your face with it. It also cleans unseen dirt and goes down into your pores. Another fine cleanser is almond oil, especially effective in protecting the delicate skin under the eyes.
Skin Moisturizer:
For normal skin care, you can take 1 cup of yogurt, 1 tablespoon orange juice and 1 tablespoon lemon juice and mix it into a paste. Apply it on your face as a mask and keep it on for 15 minutes. Then clean it off with a wet tissue watch your complexion glow. For dry skin, you could use a mixture of cooked oatmeal and honey; it will not only help moisturize the skin but also acts as a good cleansing agent.
Skin Nourishment and Bleach:
For nourishing your face try a protein mask. You can prepare this mask by first soaking 1 tablespoon urad dal and 4 almonds in water overnight and then grinding them into a paste. You can then apply this protein mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour. This exceptional protein mask will not only nourish the skin but also bleach it.
Wrinkle Prevention and Softer Skin:
To prevent wrinkles and soften your skin, you could try pure castor oil; it is known to slow down the aging process of the skin.
Skin Conditioner:
Another simple and excellent skin conditioner that can be made out of 1 tbsp. honey blended with 2 tbsp. cream (of milk). Leave it on for a few minutes and wash it off. It works like magic.
Skin Blemishes:
For skin blemishes, you can try rubbing a raw potato on your face.
Sun-Protection Lotion:
It's summer time. Time to cool off. So let's wind up with a good home-made sun-protection lotion. Take cucumber juice and equal amounts of glycerine and rose water and make a concoction. This should be refrigerated. Try it, it's really cool.
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Skin Care through Eating Healthy
A healthy glowing complexion is the most important attribute of a natural beauty. Beauty care starts with the skin. The first step, then, would be to take care of what you put on the inside, because it shows up on the outside!
Did you know that scaly skin is a result of fluorine deficiency? Fluorine is the anti-resistant element of the human body, the absence of which creates problems in the blood and spleen. Since cooking and heating foods destroys fluorine, it is better to eat uncooked raw fruits and vegetables. Other foods rich in fluorine are goat milk and cheese, rye flour, avocados, sea plants and cabbage, cream whey and cottage cheese.
Sodium deficiency causes skin to become sticky and makes it wrinkle faster. Cucumbers are ideal for combating and preventing sodium deficiency because they are not only high in sodium, but also help in keeping the body cool, a great summer's treat.
Skin rashes are the result of silicon deficiency. To avoid pus and rashes, eat plenty of sprouts, alfalfa, barley, tomatoes, spinach, strawberries and figs.
Chlorophyll supplements that are found in wheat grass and other green leafy vegetables are excellent to combat skin eruptions.
Always remember that most skin problems start with the kidneys. So flush out your system with plenty of water and eat foods with high iodine content like carrots, beetroot and leafy vegetables. An ideal way to start your day is with a glass of water with a twist of lime and 1 tsp. honey. Drink at least 10 - 12 glasses of water the rest of the day; it not only improves digestion but also clears out toxins from your body.
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Identifying your Skin Type
Buying toiletries and cosmetics today can be a bewildering experience. The bug of super-specialization has bitten even the world of beauty. Everything from moisturizer to soap to face wash to sunscreen to cleansers and toners is classified according to the type of skin you have. When you buy beauty products, you have to know whether you are a dry, normal, oily or combination skin, just like you have to know whether you are a small, medium or large when you buy clothes.
In the looking glass
Normal mirrors and soft lighting can be quite deceptive. The first step in pinning down your skin type is to get hold of a magnifying mirror to see what's really happening with your skin. Now brace yourself, because in most cases, this is not a pretty sight. A magnifying mirror highlights every blackhead, whitehead, pimple, crater and wrinkle. But if it's any consolation, most people's skins don't pass the magnifying mirror test with flying colours.
Tissue test
The next thing to do is to check on the glandular activity of your skin. As complicated as that sounds, it's actually a simple procedure that just requires a paper tissue. Press the paper tissue to your nose and forehead for a few seconds. Do not rub it over the surface of your skin. Then remove the tissue and examine it.
If your glands are working overtime, the tissue will have greasy marks on it. If the tissue is spotless, don't get too excited. It's not a good sign. It means that your skin lacks lubrication. If the tissue is hardly soiled, you are one of the lucky ones with perfect skin.
The pH factor
This may sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but the pH factor is actually a measure of the acidity of your skin. pH is a measure of hydrogen particles, which, in excess, cause 'alkalinity' and if deficient cause 'acidity'. If the pH factor has a value of 7, it is neutral and represents perfect balance. When the figure is above 7, it is alkaline and when it is below 7, it is acidic.
To determine the acidity or alkalinity of your skin, you have to apply litmus paper to the surface of your skin. First clean your face thoroughly. Then wait for an hour before you apply the litmus paper so that the test result is not affected by the remnants of soap or cosmetics. Keep the paper against your skin for one minute and then remove it.
If the paper remains blue, your skin lacks acidity and will be prone to infections. If the paper is a rosy-lilac, your skin is sufficiently acidic. But if the litmus turns a pinky-red, your skin is too acidic as a result of which is delicate, sensitive and likely to show the effects of age prematurely.
Skin can be broadly classified into 5 categories:
Normal
Dry
Extra dry
Oily
Clogged
Normal skin:
It's ironic, but normal skin is a rarity. It's the kind of skin you have as a baby and which rarely survives the ravages of puberty and pollution into adulthood. This type of skin leaves only faint traces on the tissue and turns litmus paper pink. When you squeeze it, the skin is smooth and you don't see any pores.
Dry skin:
This type of skin leaves no traces on the tissue paper and turns the litmus paper red. It is a delicate kind of skin that wrinkles and burns easily under the rays of the sun.
Extra dry skin:
The skin is drab and dull and has a flabby texture. It wrinkles prematurely and its acidity varies from day to day.
Oily skin:
A shiny nose is typical of oily skin. It is not prone to developing wrinkles and has enlarged pores. It leaves very visible traces on the tissue paper and usually lacks acidity.
Clogged skin:
The skin is rough, thick, flecked with blackheads and whiteheads. It tends to be high on alkalinity and leaves no traces on the tissue paper.
You will notice that different areas of your skin exhibit different characteristics. For instance, your cheeks may be really dry, but your nose is always shiny and your forehead is a field of blackheads. In that case, you will have to care for each area of your skin as is required.
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Orange Peel Skin
No, this is not a food article. These phrases are popularly used to describe the dreaded phenomenon of cellulite. Dimpled knees only look cute on babies. If you're way past the baby stage and you have dimpled fat below your waist level, you've got cellulite!
The pinch test
Pinch your skin between your thumb and finger or between the palms of your hands. If it is just plain old fat, the pinched skin will appear smooth. However, if the pinched skin has ripples or bumps similar to an orange peel, it's cellulite.
Skinny people have it too
Cellulite can affect any age group and there is a depressing statistic that claims that 99% of all women develop some cellulite after 30. However, men can also have cellulite around their necks and stomachs. As you may have guessed from the title, it definitely appears on the thighs. It also settles around the buttocks, the hips, the stomach, the ankles, the upper arms, the upper back below the shoulders and the lower back. That seems to cover most of it. The most astounding fact is that you don't have to obese to have cellulite. While overweight people are more likely to have cellulite, even skinny people face the problem.
There are two kinds of cellulite. The hard variety, which appears, believe it or not, in more active people, is harder to detect, as it is not so easily pinched away from the muscle. Soft cellulite is associated with poor muscle tone and is more noticeable as the skin is loose and it sags.
Who's the culprit?
While some researchers would like to believe that cellulite is all in the genes, it is more likely that what parents do pass on are bad habits. Cellulite formation is linked to poor eating habits, a sedentary lifestyle, build-up of toxins in the body and poor circulation. Cellulite may also develop after pregnancy or as a result of taking contraceptive pills due to excessive estrogen levels.
The orange peel or cottage cheese effect is the direct result of the malfunctioning of the waste removal system and the build-up of toxins in the body. When this happens, the connective tissue surrounding the muscles become filled with fluid that hardens into hard pockets making your skin look like the peel of an orange.
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Daily Skin Care
Your skin is not a part of your body that you can forget about (like an appendix or a kidney), assuming that it will look after itself. It is a high-maintenance part of your body, which is sensitive to the slightest changes in your health, emotions and environment. You binge on chocolates and your face becomes a mass of pimples; you don't get a good night's sleep and dark circles appear under your eyes; you're out in the sun a lot and you get burnt or develop freckles. The list is endless. So let's take a look at skin care regimes for different kinds of skin.
Dry skin
Use a rich cream cleanser instead of soap and water. Avoid astringents, as they will further dry your skin. Instead, use a mild skin toner after cleansing your skin. Apply a good moisturizing lotion in the day, before sleeping, before applying make-up and after removing make-up.
Once a week, wash your face with the juice of a melon. You can give yourself a weekly facial by mixing a yolk of an egg with two tablespoons of milk and half a tablespoon of honey. Apply this on your face and leave it on for about fifteen minutes. Then wash with lukewarm water. If you're out in the sun a lot, milk mixed with melted butter helps soften the dry skin.
Lanolin, apple juice, peach juice, sour cream and crushed almonds are also helpful for dry skin.
Oily skin
You may not believe it, but oily skin actually has some advantages. As a result of excess lubrication, wrinkles do not form prematurely and skin is not much affected by wind and sunlight. However, oily skin is a magnet for dirt and grime and thus a good and regular cleansing regime is a must. If oily skin is not cleaned thoroughly and regularly, the dirt will clog the pores in the skin and blackheads will appear.
People with oily skin should wash their faces with medicated soap and water. The use of astringents is advised as they have a tightening and drying effect on the skin. Buttermilk or beaten egg whites also have a drying and tightening effect. Parsley juice mixed with honey and a few drops of lemon or ginger is good for an oily skin. This mixture controls the secretion of oil.
Fuller's earth (Multani mitti), oatmeal, almond paste, or lime juice or vinegar mixed with water are excellent cleansers. Steaming opens up the clogged pores and you can push out blackheads and whiteheads and prevent pimples.
Avoid rich fried foods and load up on green vegetables instead. Take two tablespoons of lecithin granules (a by-product of soyabeans) daily.
After washing your face, soak a towel in hot water and press it to your face. Repeat this process two or three times. Next wet the towel in ice-cold water and repeat the process two or three times to close enlarged pores.
Cucumber, parsley, cabbage, tomato, yoghurt and lemon are natural aids for an oily skin.
Combination skin
If you have an oily nose and forehead, but dry cheeks and chin, you will have to treat each area of your face separately depending on whether it is dry or oily.
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Sunny Side Effects
People tend to look upon the sun in a friendly way. It is what gives us warmth and life. It is associated with good times and cheer. Yet the sun can affect your skin in a distinctly unfriendly fashion. Ask anyone who has stretched out under the fiery rays on a beach in search of the perfect tan and got burnt instead; or someone whose face is a mass of freckles. None of them could be very happy with what the sun has done to their skin. Here are some practical ways of coping with the effects of the sun.
Freckles
If your skin has a light smattering of freckles, pat some lime juice or buttermilk onto the freckles and then leave it on till it dries. Radish is also useful in combating freckles. A combination of four tablespoons of grated radish and a few drops of vinegar makes a good bleaching paste. You can also boil grated horseradish in milk to make a mild bleach. Fresh green beans boiled and then mashed can be applied as a poultice. Rum is also helpful, but the idea is not to drink it, but to mix two ounces of lemon juice to one ounce of rum and then apply this mixture to your freckles.
If you need to use something stronger for those stubborn freckles, a stronger bleach can be prepared by boiling an ounce of horseradish in half a litre of butttermilk for about an hour. Strain the solution and then apply on your freckles. Another strong bleaching agent can be concocted by mixing sixty grains of borax powder with five ounces of lemon juice. Apply this paste at bedtime.
A good tip to keep in mind is that any fruit or vegetable that contains Vitamin C can be used to bleach freckles.
Sunburns
Excessive exposure to the sun's rays makes the pigment in the skin come up to the surface in order to protect the skin from burning. This is the reason your skin becomes darker.
The phrase cool as a cucumber is not completely baseless. Cucumbers are very useful in soothing sunburns. Peel and grate a cucumber. Then take out the juice and mix it with half a teaspoon of glycerine and half a teaspoon of rose water. Pat this solution onto your skin and experience the cooling effect. You can also soak some pieces of cucumber in a cup of milk for a few hours and then apply the milk on your sunburn. A mixture made of equal parts of lime water and linseed oil is also a good alternative. Cod-liver oil, potato juice and even a solution of ordinary tea can have a cooling effect. A homemade face mask constituting one egg-white mixed with a little honey and witch hazel is also very effective in dealing with sunburn.
Darkened skin
For some people a fair skin is of utmost importance. Here are a few simple home bleaching ideas. Mostly all the sunburn remedies also have a bleaching effect. However, they are more suitable for oily skins as they also have a drying effect. So if you are going to use these remedies, remember to follow them up with some nourishing cream if you have dry skin.
Those with dry skin who would prefer not to use the above remedies, could try soaking one slice of lemon in one cup of milk. Then strain the milk and apply it on your face. This serves as a mild bleaching agent and does not dry the skin as much. You could also substitute a pinch of bicarbonate of soda for the lemon.
Grapes are gentler on the skin than lemon juice. What you need to do is to wash a bunch of grapes thoroughly. Then sprinkle them with alum powder and salt. Next, wrap them in aluminium foil or brown paper and bake for 20 minutes in an oven. Finally, squeeze out the juice and wash your face with it.
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Skin Care SecretsDid you know that there's a beauty parlour hiding in your kitchen?
Working women have it tough. In between rushing to work and back, juggling car pools, co-ordinating with baby sitters, cooking and house-keeping, they scarcely have time to take a deep breath. As far as visits to the beauty parlour are concerned, they are at the bottom of the priority ladder! But fear not, help is at hand.
Take a look around your kitchen shelf. You'll be surprised at what you find. Did you know that tomato and lime are excellent bleaching agents? And this is just the tip of the 'ice' berg.
Find out more as you read on.
1. Unboiled milk is an excellent cleanser. Dip a piece of cotton wool in a little cold milk and rub it gently on your face. You will see a lot of dirt on the cotton. Keep cleaning your face in a circular upward movement until the cotton comes out completely clean.
2. Ice-cold water is an excellent astringent and skin freshener and serves to close the pores that have opened while cleansing. It also tones the skin.
3.Cream or 'malai' is a very good moisturizer and it needs to be applied to replace the oils that are lost while cleansing and toning. It will keep your skin supple and young.
4. Equal quantities of corn flour, jowar flour (atta) and cream (malai) can give you an instant facelift. You need to make a paste and apply it on your face. Wash it off after it dries. While jowar atta will remove the dead cells, corn flour will tone up and tighten the skin and the cream will moisturize it.
5. Cabbage juice mixed with a little yeast and a tablespoon of honey is an excellent remedy for dry skin. Leave a thick paste on your face for about 15 minutes for best results.
6. Lettuce juice mixed with an equal quantity of rose water and a few drops of limejuice is an excellent remedy for oily skin. It should be applied for at least 30 minutes for best results.
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Beauty secrets from the kitchenSome more easy-to-implement body care tips.
1.Watermelon juice clears the skin of all its blemishes leaving it fresh and lovely. Grate a watermelon, squeeze out the juice and apply it on your face for 15 minutes. Now wash it with hot water and then splash on cold water.
2. Fenugreek leaves (methi) cure pimples, blackheads, dryness and early appearance of wrinkles. Make a paste of these leaves and apply it every night. Next morning, wash off with warm water. This improves your complexion.
3. Tea leaves and lemon juice helps prevent hair fall. They also lead to soft and shiny hair. You need to boil the leaves in water and strain out the tea. Add a little lemon juice to this concoction and wash your hair with it. Rinse your hair thoroughly.
4. Bengal gram flour (besan) mixed with curd can be applied daily on your face and hair! It will not only give you a glowing complexion, but also long and lustrous locks.
5. Orange juice is great for an instant glow. All you need to do is dip your fingers in the juice and pat your cheeks, chin, neck and forehead. Wash off after ten minutes.
Your kitchen shelf has been secretly storing all these beauty secrets for years.
It is up to you to discover more.
And when you do, don't forget to share them with us!
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Look Beautiful
Everybody's in a hurry. Rushing to college, to a party, to a meeting, to pick up the kids, or to office. You grab your breakfast as you rush out of the house, brush your hair in the car, and if you have the time, you swipe a tube of lipstick over your lips. There. You're all set.
Or so you think.
Most women go through life with looks bordering on average, never realizing their true potential.
Then on the other hand there are those women who do take time out to apply make-up, but somehow they don't reach their beauty peak. They just don't get it right!
It may come as a surprise to know that you could look at least 40 percent better than you do, if you take the time, and make the effort.
Here are a few tips to get you looking your gorgeous best.
Apply foundation
Not only does foundation even out your skin tone making you look fresher, it also protects your skin from the heat, dust and pollution. Mix your foundation with a drop or two of water, or better still, apply it with a damp sponge, so doesn't coat your face heavily. Foundation should be completely invisible.
Target lips or eyes, not both
There should be one area of focus on the face: lips, or eyes. Either apply a heavy eyeliner, or a dark lipstick, not both. Indian women usually have beautiful eyes, so make the most of them by lining them with kohl and layering on the eye shadow.
Apply mascara
Apply a quick coat of mascara to your upper and lower lashes. It opens up your eyes and makes them stand out some more.
Thread your brows
If you think you do not need to thread your eyebrows, think again. Clean, sharply defined brows really bring out your eyes, so if you have never threaded them, it is time you started. Keep a tweezer handy so you can clean them between threading sessions.
Stay away from bright colours during the day
Save those blood red and maroon lipsticks for after nightfall, and stick to pastels or neutral shades during the day. Light pinks and glosses look great in the day.
Get rid of fuzz
It never fails to amaze me when I see women walking around sprouting a moustache, when getting rid of upper-lip hair is so easy. Always, always remove fine hair on your upper lip, by waxing or threading it off. You could bleach it too, but this does not leave as neat a result as waxing or threading does. Similarly, if you have hair under your chin, remove it. If you have very few hair on your chin, pluck it instead of threading it.
Wax or shave regularly, to get rid of all unwanted body hair.
Groom your hair
Wash your hair three times a week to keep it clean and healthy. If your hair is dry and damaged, wash it less often, perhaps just once a week depending upon the extent of damage.
Keep frizzies at bay by applying a frizz-ease, or by applying 2-3 drops of oil to wet hair.
Choose a hairstyle that complements your face cut, and trim it regularly.
Untidy hair draws from your looks, so keep a brush handy.
Experiment, experiment
Don't be afraid to experiment. Keep trying out different looks and hairstyles. You'll never know what looks good till you try it out. Checking out hairstyles on your photograph on some computer screen isn't as good as the real deal. You have to get out there and try it out for real.
Don't stick to a look
So you found a great hairstyle or lipstick shade, and feel that this is THE one for you. Well, you could be surprised. Maybe it looks good, but then again, maybe you still have to stumble upon something that looks better! So even if you are happy with your present look, after a while, opt for a change.
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Lip Sync
Your lips are the most exquisite and sensual part of your body. Make the most of them.Your lips. They're undoubtedly the most exquisite and sensual part of your body. They provide pleasure, and they provide function. You talk, eat, pout and kiss with them. And best of all, they can smile and brighten up a room.
Lips are delicate, sensitive and are the first to show signs of bruising. So if you chew them, lick them and pick at them just to amuse yourself, stop now. Here's how to treat them with the care they deserve.
LIP TIPS
1. Add brushing your lips to your morning ritual. Apply Vaseline to lips and brush lightly with a soft toothbrush to get rid of dead skin. Follow up with another coat of Vaseline or lip balm.
2. Apply a generous coat of lip balm before turning in for the night. If you've run out of lip balm or Vaseline, a great substitute is eye cream.
3. If you're gonna be out in the sun, apply a moisturising lipstick with sun-block. Just because lips don't tan doesn't mean the sun's rays don't harm them.
4. Turn your old lipsticks into new pots of lip-gloss. Simply scrape lipstick out of the tube and place it in a tiny box. Add an equal amount of Vaseline and microwave it for about 30 seconds. Stir until it's smooth, let it cool and apply your lip-gloss.
5. Every once in a while you'll notice that while applying lipstick, tiny vertical lines show up. Simply apply lipstick vertically instead of horizontally to make these lines less noticeable.
6. Do you hate the dry-lips feel you get when you've applied matte lipstick? Try this: apply your regular moisture-rich lipstick and top it off with a lip pencil.
7. Similarly, if you want your lipstick to last longer, first coat lips with a liner and then apply your lipstick.
8. If your lip pencil is hard, simply apply lip balm before applying the pencil.
9. Chill too-soft pencils in the fridge for about half an hour. This makes them easier to sharpen and apply.
10. Do you stay miles away from red lipstick? And are all those tubes just lying and rotting at the bottom of your dresser drawer? Pull 'em out! Applying a touch of brown lipstick to red lip colour plays down the red, and looks great. Experiment a little with reds and other shades. You'll be surprised at the results!
11. Carry some lipstick with you and keep reapplying during the day. Colour on your lips brightens up your face like nothing else can.
12. If you're plagued by dark, almost black lips, here's what you could do: Mix equal amounts of almond oil, glycerin and honey with rose water, shake well and apply.
Do your thin lips have you down in the mouth? Cheer up! Here's how to fool Mother Nature.
13. Apply a light shade of lipstick (darker tones make lips appear smaller). Define lips with a pencil, but for heaven's sake, do NOT go outside your natural lip line. Apply the liner to the outermost edge of your lips and fill in with lipstick.
14. Drawing a line with brown pencil on the center of the upper lip, and then applying your lipstick will also make your top lip look fuller. Glossy lipsticks and frosty shades make lips look fuller, while matte shades make lips look thinner.
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Beauty - The Egyptian Way
While we are definitely more concerned with our looks than the previous generation was, we still have a long way to go before we actively try to make the most of our looks. Look around you. Most of the women we see have their hair pinned up away from their face, with minimal make up, and a few - or quite a few - extra pounds packed around the waist.
However, to be fair, we are getting more and more fitness conscious here in India. A few years ago there must have been a maximum of 5 gyms throughout the country! While now there are about 50 in each city. A good sign, but we still have a long way to go.
Ancient Egypt
No other country or culture was so concerned with beautification as was Egypt. Cleopatra the VII has also written a book of beauty secrets. Even today Egyptian glass perfume vials decorate many a classic dressing table and the herb Aloe, so ingrained in ancient Egyptian beauty treatments, is still a vital ingredient in most skin-care creams.
Body Oil
If body oil is not a daily part of your bathing ritual, perhaps its time you made it so. The heat, dust and pollution of our times plays havoc with our skin. Ever wondered why Egyptian women were renowned for their alabaster skin Records show that all women, from the richest to the most destitute used body oil in huge quantities. In fact, sufficient body oil for daily use was often issued as part of wages!
Egyptian Anti-wrinke cream recipe
1 tsp sweet almond oil
2 drops of Frankincense essential oil or Rose Attar.
Mix these ingredients together and you have an excellent anti-wrinkle cream. Cleanse your face and apply this to your face at night. Massage it in your skin gently for about 5 minutes, and wash off the next morning.
Almonds
Bitter or sweet almond oil were the most common ingredients of Egyptian cosmetics, and are excellent for the skin. Use pure almond oil as an under-eye cream and keep crows-feet at bay. Almond oil is also excellent for your hair. Mix almond and coconut oil to your hair and wash it off after an hour, for excellent results.
Body Oil
Try this:
After bathing, pour a teaspoon of almond oil into a mug of water and pour it over your body as a final rinse.
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Lipstick Lore
Choose the right colour
With so many lipstick shades available at every departmental and cosmetic store, it can be hard to decide which one to pick up. Just because you like a particular shade, does not mean it will suit you. So how do you find out which colours are best for you?
As a rough guide, remember:
- Fair skin tones are flattered by blue-undertone reds, light pinks, honey, mocha and beige with pink undertones.
- Medium skin tones look good in rich reds, brownish pinks and medium browns from mocha to caramel.
- Darker skins like brownish reds and plums, sheer pinks, pink-glossed beige and virtually any shade of brown.
Once you've found the colour that's bang-on target, you're almost done - but not quite! The trick lies in the application.
Read on, and get ready to knock 'em dead!
Too Thick?
Play them down!
Lips can never be too fat. Well. almost never. So if you feel you've got more than your share of lip, here's what you can do:
- Define your lips with a lip pencil by lining them just inside the natural lip line.
- Fill in with the same colour lipstick as your lip pencil. It is always advisable to use a lip brush.
- Use a dark, matte lipstick as these make lips appear thinner. Glossy lipsticks give an illusion of fullness, so stay away from them.
- Dab your lips with a little bit of powder, to tone them down. Et voila! You're all set for a night on the town!
Too Thin?
Play them up!
So who said too much sex appeal is injurious to health? If you're looking to get hot, in-your-face lips that really stand out, here's what to do:
- Apply lip liner just outside your lip line or at the outermost edge. Whatever you do, don't try to make lips look thicker by drawing on an artificial outline that's outside your natural lip line.
- Follow with lipstick. The shade could be lighter than the lip pencil. This gives the illusion of depth.
- Use frosted shades, and load on the gloss. Stay away from matte lipsticks, or follow with a touch of gloss.
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10 Beauty Tips1. Brushing Up
Make body brushing a part of your daily routine. Scrubbing out dirt and grime is the least of its advantages. Body brushing tones and stimulates skin, helping with the natural drainage of the lymph glands. It also helps combat cellulite. When brushing, work towards the heart, up from your legs and thighs, and down from your neck. Oh, and remember, skin should be dry while body-brushing, so make sure you have a soft brush - you don't want abrasions that are hard to explain!
2. Banana Rama
For a great homemade face softener, try this: mash a banana and apply it to your face. Leave on for ten minutes and wash off with lukewarm water. Your face feels like satin. Plus, it puts those over ripe gooey bananas to good use!
3. Pearly White
Ever looked in the mirror and felt that your teeth were going from white to off-white to yellow? Take a hard look at your habits. The biggest culprits in the teeth-yellowing process are tobacco, coffee, tea and red wine. So if you must indulge, brush your teeth afterwards whenever possible, or at least rinse with water.
4. Shades Of Summer
A snazzy pair of sunglasses not only looks great, but also delays the onset of crow's feet (wrinkles on the sides of the eyes) which are accelerated by squinting in the sun.
5. Peaches And Cream
Great looks come with great skin, so get crackin' on that epidermis. Dirt and oil blocks pores causing blackheads and pimples, while dirt, grime and pollutants are drawn to oily skin like moths to a flame. So wash your face as often as possible, and cleanse at least twice a day.
6. Instant Glow
So you've just reached home after a nerve-wrecking day at the office and have to leave immediately for a dinner party thrown by your husband's most revered business client. How to get that glow in a flash? You could cheat and layer on the blusher, but a better option would be to try this: simply mix equal amounts of lemon and honey, apply it to your face and wash off after ten minutes.
7. Luscious Locks
Nothing improves the quality of your hair better than getting a regular oil massage. Get it done at home once a week if you have a husband or mother-in-law that dotes on you, or visit your neighbourhood parlour.
8. All Steamed Up
After applying oil wrap your hair in a steaming towel for twenty minutes. Give your hair this steaming treatment at least once a month. Steaming hair after applying oil helps it soak deeper into the follicles.
9. Fun In The Sun
The sun's warmth may make you feel good but it's ultraviolet rays over time cause at best, dry wrinkly skin and at worst, skin cancer. Don't step out without loading on that sunscreen. In the summers, avoid stepping out between 12:00 to 2:00 when the sun is at its peak.
10. Water, Water Everywhere
You can never drink too much water. It flushes out your toxins and is great for the skin, liver and just about every conceivable body organ! It keeps you cool and feeling fresh, reduces dehydration and rejuvenates your body cells. Drink at least ten glasses of water in a day. Bottoms up!
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More Beauty TipsEyes Right
If eyes are the window to your soul, make sure they stand out. Instead of applying that same jet black liquid eye liner on the upper lid of the eye, try something different. Invest in a dark blue eye pencil and line your eyes all around with it.
Water Water
Want to lose weight but just can't seem to stop eating? Try drinking at least 2 glasses of water before your meal. Drinking subdues the appetite and tricks your stomach into feeling satisfied with less. You're definitely not starving yourself, and neither are you overeating. Perfect, isn't it?
Steamin'
Steam your face once a week to open pores, so it can be cleansed more effectively. Add a few herbs like basil (tulsi) for extra advantage. Don't steam face directly over the burning stove - too hot! Instead, remove the boiling water from the stove and form a tent with your towel.
OOOO!
Though you can't prevent those tiny lines from forming around your mouth and eyes, you can certainly delay their onset. Try this simple exercise. Stretch your mouth into a wide grin and say 'eee' and then into a circle saying 'ooo'. Oh, and do this in the privacy of your room if you don't want to be shipped to the funny farm.
Soft And Silky
For a deep, moisturising skin treatment apply olive oil to your skin once a week. Let it soak in while you take a steamy shower, and blot out the excess with a tissue.
You Better Not Pout!
Lipstick applied to dry lips does not last long. Moisturise lips with lip balm or Vaseline and let it get absorbed before applying lipstick. For a final touch, add a bit of glitter to lips. It's dynamite, but do keep it subtle!
Cheating Mother Nature
The general rule of thumb is that light colours bring things forwards, while dark colours make them recede. So hide that prominent jawbone by brushing a dark shade over it. You could also brush a dark colour in the hollow of your chin for a flirtatious cleft! Who said you needed plastic surgery?
Ice Ice Baby
Keep skin looking young and fresh by splashing your face with ice-cold water. This rejuvenates the skin and delays the onset of wrinkles. (Don't try this if you are prone to broken capillaries.)
Lime N' Lemony
For a great shine to hair, squeeze the juice of one lemon into a mug of water and give your hair a final rinse with this mixture, after shampooing. You could also use a tablespoon of vinegar instead of a lemon.
AND SO TO BED
Never, ever go to sleep without washing off your make-up. That's a surefire step to a disastrous complexion.
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Pimple S.O.SThe rude shock in the mirror
You wake up in the morning, stumble to the basement and wash your sleepy face. As you wipe it dry with a towel, you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror, and let out a loud groan. No, you're not having a bad face day. It's something much worse than that. It's the (shudder!) biggest darned pimple you've ever seen in your life! Ugh! Where did you go wrong?
What causes a Pimple?
A number of things can cause a pimple:
- An improper diet that includes too many soft drinks, spicy and fried food and snacks with high iodine content
- Pores clogged by dirt or pollution
- Stress
- Hormonal changes due to menstruation
- Genes - blame it on the folks
Prevention is better than cure:
Wash Right
Wash your face regularly, not more than 3 times a day, unless you're living in a highly humid and/or polluted city which requires more washing to unclog pores. The best way to wash the face is to first lather your face-wash in your hands, apply it to wet skin and rinse. Pat dry. Scrubbing only aggravates the skin and causes further problems.
Cleansing Routine
Cleanse, tone and moisturise your face twice a day. Don't skip the moisturising step even if you have oily skin - just use an oil-free moisturiser.
Exposure to the elements
Avoid exposing your skin to the harsh elements. If you are going for a long drive, roll up your window slightly, so your face doesn't get plummeted by the wind, especially in polluted towns.
Water
Drink plenty of water to detox your system. Impure blood and poor circulation is one of the primary causes of acne.
Eat Right
Unless you are allergic to certain foods, eating junk food doesn't lead to the formation of pimples. But overeating certain foods, especially heating foods like chocolates and mangoes, can lead to an overnight zit congregation.
Get rid of that zit - ice ice baby!
No! Don't burst it! That's the worst thing you can do! It may solve your problem temporarily so you won't go to that dinner with a large white bud blossoming on your mug, but the scar will remain for a long, long time. Instead, try wrapping an ice cube in a thin muslin cloth and place it for about three minutes on a pimple that is just forming. It kills the growth of the pimple. Believe it, it is true.
If a pimple does burst accidentally (or intentionally!), wash the area with soap. Then reach for a lemon slice and squeeze ten drops into a cotton ball. Keep it on the burst pimple for about 10 minutes. The scar will vanish.
Lime n' Lemony
Lemon maintains the pH balance of skin, and it is a good idea to give your face a rinse of lemon water once a day. Just squeeze half a lemon into half a mug of water and splash it on your face. Rinse off the residue with regular water.
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Sun FunAs summer fades and winter rears its head, people in certain parts of the globe are gearing up to try and stay warm and cozy.
While the sunshine is milder in winter, it can still wreak havoc on your skin, especially if you don't take the proper precautions before venturing out. Once your skin is damaged by excessive UV radiation, it will never repair itself. If you were in doubt as to the damage sun can wreak, here's a refresher:
Premature wrinkling
Skin cancer
Dries the skin
Sunburn
Freckles
So keep these tips in mind before stepping out:
1. Never, ever step out in the sun without wearing a sunscreen lotion.
2. If you are dusky skinned and a tan does not show up, this does NOT mean you are any less at risk of suffering the damage caused by UV radiation.
3. What kind of lotion should you apply Well, look for one which has an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15. This means that it will protect your skin for 15 times longer than if you had no sunscreen. It does not mean it offers stronger protection, but that it offers longer lasting protection. It all depends on how sensitive your skin is to the sun. Thus, if your skin starts going red after you've been in the sun for ten minutes, you will be able to stand the sun for 1 and a half hours if you use an SPF of 15.
4. If your skin is extra sensitive, go in for a sun tan lotion with a higher SPF.
5. Apply the lotion at least 15 minutes before exposure to the sun.
6. If you are going swimming, make sure you wear a water-resistant sunscreen. The combination of chlorine and water is murder for your skin!
7. Don't forget your lips! Lips are sensitive, and they require special protection because they can't tan. Lipstick is better than nude lips, and if you can get your hands on a lipstick which offers UV protection, there's nothing like it!
8. Remember, a sun tan lotion will not prevent you from tanning. It will, however, filter out harmful UV radiation.
9. Stay in the shade as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3 pm. The sun is at its hottest at this time.
10. When you get home after being in the sun for some time, apply an after-sun lotion. This moisturizes your skin, and it also has certain ingredients especially for sun-exposed skin.
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It's About Honey, Honey!Pour it on your paratha, stir it into your milk, dip your fruits in it, apply it to your face or hair, or simply pour a teaspoon down your throat. Whichever way you have it, rest assured, it's a treat for your health, skin and body.
Honey Cleansing Scrub
Take 2 tablespoons of finely ground almonds and mix it with a tablespoon of honey and ten drops of lemon juice. Apply this to your face and scrub gently. Rinse off with lukewarm water.
Firming Mask
Whisk one tablespoon honey with the white of an egg. Add enough flour to this mixture so it forms a paste. You will require approximately quarter of a cup. Smooth this mixture over your face and rinse off after ten minutes with lukewarm water.
Hair Conditioner
Mix half a cup of honey with two tablespoons olive oil. If your hair is very dry, add a third tablespoon. Section off your hair and coat it well with the mixture. Cover your hair with a shower cap so you don't mess up the entire house. In addition, the shower cap traps heat from your scalp, enabling the oils to penetrate further. Wash off after half an hour.
Skin Toner
Puree an apple with one tablespoon honey in a blender. Apply this mixture for face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water. This makes a great toner.
For Dry Skin
Take one tablespoon honey in a katori and add one teaspoon milk. Mix well and smooth it over face. Rinse off with lukewarm water after ten minutes. Your skin will feel soft instantly.
Smoothing Skin Lotion
Mix one teaspoon honey with one teaspoon regular cooking oil and a quarter teaspoon lemon juice. Dip a cotton swab into this mixture and rub it into your elbows, hands and heels. Rinse off with lukewarm water after ten minutes.
Skin Softening Bath
Fill up your tub with warm water and add a quarter cup honey for a smooth, silky bath.
Hair Shine
Stir 1 teaspoon honey into 4 cups warm water. After shampooing, pour mixture through hair. Do not rinse out. Dry as usual. Your hair will shine.
Vocal Cords
Ever wondered what it feels like to have a voice as melodious as that of Lata Mangeshkar? Now is your chance to find out. A teaspoon of honey a day soothes your throat and enhances the sweetness of your vocal chords you're set to be the singing sensation of the millennium. (All you need is ten hours of practice a day.
Energy Booster
If you feel an instant boost of vitality after taking a teaspoon of honey, you're not imagining it. Honey is choc-a-bloc with vitamins, minerals, glucose and fructose, which is why it makes good sense to substitute sugar with honey whenever possible.
Healing Properties
Applying honey on cuts and wounds helps them heal faster, as honey controls anti-oxidants which absorb the oxygen from the air and help the wound heal faster, without scarring. The ancient Egyptians used honey to treat cataracts, cuts and burns. Hippocrates, the Greek physician, prepared honey-based cures for skin disorders and ulcers. During World War I, German doctors used honey mixed with cod liver oil to surgically dress soldiers' wounds.
So what are you waiting for? Rush to the kitchen and grab a spoonful of honey!
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What is microdermabrasion?Microdermabrasion is a simple cosmetic procedure to get rid of wrinkles and scars. Read on to know if this cosmetic procedure is meant for you.
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that makes use of tiny rough grains to remove the outermost dead surface of the skin totally or partially. The plus point of this procedure is that it is not painful and does not need anesthetic. Microdermabrasion is one the most recent and popular skin care techniques.
How microdermabrasion works?
Microdermabrasion can be a great substitute to other expensive and cumbersome cosmetic procedures such as Plastic surgery, Chemical peeling and Botox injections. Stratum Corneum is the uppermost layer of our skin and this layer is prone to most of the skin problems including infections, acne, blemishes and wrinkles.
Microdermabrasion is also referred as skin polishing. It works on the topmost layer of the skin to treat skin problems. The process of microdermabrasion does not require a doctor's attention. Microdermabrasion is done in spas or by beauticians in salons. Crystal microdermabrasion and diamond microdermabrasion are the most common methods of skin polishing.
Crystal microdermabrasion
Crystal microdermabrasion is the traditional process to carry out microdermabrasion procedure. In this process tiny crystals are used to exfoliate the skin. It is believed that this method is a natural method to get glowing skin without any chemicals, surgeries, lasers or side effects.
Aluminum oxide crystals are used as an abrasive agent. Doctors believe that aluminum oxide is safe for skin resurfacing treatments. The irregular shape of the crystals makes them effective for skin resurfacing.
Diamond microdermabrasion
Diamond microdermabrasion is the alternative for crystal microdermabrasion. No crystals are used in this process, instead exfoliation takes place when diamond tipped head abrades against the skin to remove the dead skin layer.
Diamond microdermabrasion does not make use of crystals, thus preventing the contact of the crystals with eyes. Some experts say that this procedure of abrasion is not completely safe. Diamond microdermabrasion helps reducing wrinkles, acne scars and brown spots.
Microdermabrasion at home
Many people prefer home Microdermabrasion systems. Microdermabrasion home kits usually contain crystal creams and applicators. Applicator is a hand held resurfacing wand or foam applicator which massages foam deep into the skin. In some products you need to massage it with your hand instead of using a massaging tool.
Micro abrasion at home is milder as compared to microdermabrasion at clinics or spas. Home microdermabrasion is cheaper than in spas. You just need to cleanse your face and then start massaging with microdermabrasion wand all over your skin or on the affected area. Microdermabrasion at home takes just a few minutes.
Benefits of microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion helps revitalise dull skin and makes it glow. Microdermabrasion is beneficial for reducing dilated, enlarged pores and controls wrinkles. It lightens blemishes, age spots, mild pigments and stretch marks. Microdermabrasion renews skin and helps the growth of the new skin cells.
Microdermabrasion is not a complicated skin treatment. It does not have any side effects and does not make use of harsh chemicals. You can immediately carry on with your daily chores once you are done with the procedure. One should keep in mind some facts in mind before opting for microdermabrasion.
Microdermabrasion should not be used on patients who have taken the medication Accutane in the last twelve months.
The crystals in the microdermabrasion machine should be more than 99% pure to get most out of the process.
Instruments those come in contact with skin during process should be free of bacteria or other microorganisms.
Avoid microdermabrasion if you are pregnant or less than 14 years of age. Due to hormonal changes during these periods microdermabrasion may not show its effects.
Microdermabrasion will make you look young and will make your skin supple. Age will be no bar to flaunt baby soft skin. If you are combating age related skin problems, microdermabrasion can help. Why live with blemishes when you have a choice. Microdermabrasion may give you the skin you desire.
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5 Minutes to a Creamy Complexion
If you don't apply foundation before going out, you're making a mistake. Foundation, if applied well, can make your skin look soft, smooth, flawless and simply spectacular.
Make sure the foundation matches your skin tone.
Do you have a sponge for applying foundation? If not, get one. It ensures an even application.
Mix a little moisturiser in your foundation. Most skins are dehydrated even though we may not realise it. In any case, moisturiser adds a sheen to the foundation.
Mix an equal amount of foundation and moisturiser in the palm of your hand, and wipe it over your face.
Blend it with a damp sponge and finish off with a dusting of compact powder. And voila! You won't be able to tear your eyes away from the mirror.
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Lime ' Lemony'If there's one beauty item your kitchen shelf should not be without, it's the humble LEMON. Here are just a few of the ways you can use it, to achieve spectacular results.
Skin Sense
Mix a few drops of lemon juice with an equal amount of water. Apply it on your face with a cotton ball. This makes a great astringent.
Beset by blemishes? No problem. Simply dab the area with lemon juice a few times a day. This removes the redness from the blemished area.
Mix the juice from 1 lemon with 2 parts coarse salt and 1 part olive oil to make a paste. Step into the shower and massage into body. Turn on the shower and rinse. Pat dry and apply a rich moisturiser. This makes a great exfoliating scrub and leaves your skin soft and glowing.
Turmeric powder is also excellent for your skin. Mix turmeric powder along with a little lemon juice and wash off after 10 minutes. Be careful though the yellow tends to stain the face, so do this before going to bed.
You can make an excellent face mask by mixing 2 tablespoons papaya pulp with 10 drops of lemon juice. Rinse off after 20 minutes. You've heard it said again and again - you can never drink too much water, but what's even better is water to which a twist of lemon has been added. (No sweet or other masalas - we're not talking nimboo pani here!) This is not only great for your health, but good for your complexion as well.
Step by Step to Steam Cleansing
Most skin types benefit from regular steaming, but don't steam your face if you have thread veins as it would only worsen the condition. Also, don't steam your face more than once a week. it may dry your skin excessively. Bring a quarter of water to boil and take it to the table. Add the juice of half a lemon and a handful of any herbs (basil or mint). Tie back your hair and drape a towel over your head and the bowl to form a tent, to trap the steam. After you've steamed your face for fifteen minutes, gently squeeze out blackheads, if any, and splash it with cold water to close pores. Apply a moisturiser 15 minutes later.
A Natural Bleach
Streak your hair the natural way. Add lemon to strands of hair and sit in the sun for fifteen minutes. Do this sparingly because it could damage dry hair. Cut a lemon in half and rub it on hyper-pigmented areas like your elbows and knees to lighten them.
Mix a few drops lemon juice with an equal amount of honey if you have dry skin, or with cucumber juice if your skin is oily. Wash off after 15 minutes. Get rid of age spots. Cut a lemon wedge and hold it directly on the spot for ten minutes. Rinse with warm water. Repeat this every day until the spots lighten or vanish altogether!
Lemon is good for removing stains on teeth - rub with the peel, then rinse with water.
Hair Care
For hair that shines, add the juice of a lemon to one cup water. Pour it over your hair after shampooing as a final rinse. Do not rinse off.
Squeeze lemon juice in your hair while rinsing off the shampoo. This removes shampoo residue from your hair and smells great!
Troubled by hair loss? Try this: Mix the juice of one lemon with 4 tbsp coconut milk. Massage it into your scalp and wash off after half an hour. Do this at least once a week to arrest hairfall.
And More...
Instant refreshment for your face: Add lemon to water and freeze it. Rub your face with these lemonice cubes whenever you're hot, tired or simply bored...
Soak your fingertips in a mixture of 1 cup warm water and the juice of 1/2 lemon for about 5 minutes. Rinse and pat dry, pushing back cuticles as you dry.
Rub lemon peel over your nails and buff with a soft cloth. This is great for your nails. Do this once a week.
Adding lemon to a warm bath helps to invigorate the body. You come out from your bath feeling fresh and fabulous!
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Delay The Onset of WrinklesStop the hands of time! 10 great tips that will take years off your face.
1. Apply moisturiser regularly. Dry skin tends to lose elasticity earlier than oily skin, so applying moisturiser helps combat wrinkles, as it keeps the skin supple. It helps to keep in mind that air-conditioners and room heaters tend to dry out the air, and consequently, your skin. Apply a heavier moisturiser if you are going to be sleeping in an air-conditioned room. If possible, place a humidifier in the bedroom.
2. Avoid resting your face on your arm. This stretches your skin.
3. While removing eye make-up, be very gentle. The eyes are the first areas of the face to develop wrinkles. Under no circumstances should you stretch or pull the delicate under-eye skin.
4. The ageing effects of the sun are as severe as time itself. Make sure you stay out of the sun between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the sun is at its strongest. If you must step out in the sun, wear a cap or carry an umbrella. Apply sunscreen lotion even if you are indoors, during the day.
5. Wear sunglasses if you step out in the sun. Not only do they look great, but they also prevent you from involuntarily crinkling your eyes due to the glare of the sun. This action causes premature wrinkling, and should be avoided.
6. Inverted yoga postures like Chakrasana, Sirshasana, Sarvangasana, Adhomukha Svanasana, increase circulation to the face. Oxygen is pumped into the face, which helps rejuvenate skin. Inverted poses are of tremendous benefit, and also help delay the onset of grey hair. Your skin will look healthier and firmer.
7. Apply nourishing face masks regularly to your skin. You could purchase them, or use ingredients from your kitchen shelf. Egg yolk is extremely beneficial, so if possible, apply it at least once a week. Leave on for ten minutes and wash off. Honey, olive oil, malai (at least a day old), unboiled milk, are all excellent for skin as well. Apply a nourishing mask twice a week. Years down the line, when your contemporaries faces are lined with wrinkles, you will be glad you did.
8. Don't smoke. By smoking, you are increasing the levels of toxins in your body. In addition, the constant puckering of lips around the cigarette, to draw smoke, causes lines around the mouth. Similarly, consume less alcohol. Alcohol, if had in excess, causes puffiness the next morning. This puffiness causes the skin to stretch, and consequently quickens the onset of wrinkles.
9. Anti-ageing creams do help, though they are not the miracle workers they claim to be.
10. Chickpeas (channas) and soya beans have been found to contain ingredients that combat wrinkles. This doesn't mean that you start eating channa bhatura for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and expect to look 25 when you are 50! Chickpeas are best eaten in sprouted form, or you could mash the chickpeas or soya beans and add it to your atta while making chapatti.
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Why to use sunscreensSunscreen is a must as it protects your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Read on to know why sunscreen is necessary for healthy skin.
Exposure to harsh ultraviolet radiations could lead to the onset of wrinkles. Sunlight exposes you to two kinds of ultraviolet light, called UVA and UVB. Both can be responsible for skin damage, including wrinkling and skin cancer.
How effective is your sunscreen?
SPF (sun protection factor) is the measure to count the effectiveness of the sunscreen. A sunscreen with higher amount of SPF guarantees you a maximum protection from harmful UV rays. Applying sunscreen with SPF 15 will protect you from sunburn for approximately 150 minutes. The activities like swimming and sweating will eventually reduce the effectiveness of the SPF.
Unluckily, even sunscreens with high SPF numbers offer you less than full protection. Though sunrays are the source of vitamin D, an excessive exposure to the sunlight may lead to skin damage. Gauge the effectiveness of your sunscreen lotion or cream by using it for a few days. You may get hold of another brand if you are not happy with the one you are using.
Benefits of using sunscreen lotions
Sunscreens chemically reduce the amount of ultraviolet rays that pierce your skin. Sunscreens create a barrier between harsh sunrays and your sensitive skin.
People often end up applying sunscreen only to the face. What about other body areas which are exposed to sun too? Sunscreen should be applied to all sun-exposed areas. Sunscreen takes around 15-20 minutes to get absorbed in the skin. To get maximum benefit of your sunscreen, make it a point to apply it about 15 minutes before stepping out in the sun.
Wearing sunscreen is the part of your daily skin care. Selecting any random product may not fulfill your need. The sunscreen you need may vary according to your skin type, the amount of sunscreen lotion you apply, the amount of reapplication throughout a day, and the amount of sunscreen your skin absorbs.
How to get most out of your sunscreen?
Some ingredients in the sunscreen may lead to skin allergies or reactions. It is very important to carry a patch test before using any skin or hair product. Apply a little amount of sunscreen on a small patch of your skin and keep it for 48 hours. If reaction such as redness or irritation occurs then consider trying another sunscreen brand. If your skin does not show any adverse reactions after skin patch test then it is safe to use the product. Here are few skin care tips for you, so that you can get most out of your sunscreen.
Apply sunscreen about 15-20 minutes before exposing your skin to the sun.
Reapply sunscreen after every 2-3 hours in the sun.
Remember to apply sunscreen lotion to your lips.
Check the label to make sure your sunscreen offers UVA and UVB protection.
Choose a sunscreen with SPF numbers that offer best protection to your skin type.
SPF 15+ is recommended for Indian skin.
Make sure that sunscreen is the last thing you apply on your face. It should be applied after applying moisturiser or foundation.
Apply sunscreen daily without fail.
What ritual do you follow for your skin? Scrubbing, cleansing, toning, and moisturising, is not it? Now it is time to add one more thing to your skin care regime and that is using sunscreen. Would you like to have baby soft skin, even in your 30s, 40s, and 50s and beyond? Always wear sunscreen, with SPF more than 15 and protect your skin. A little care now can go a long way.
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Beauty DONTSNot everyone makes looking beautiful their priority. If you don't have the time to ensure you look your best everyday, make sure you at least have the basics right. Here are a few things you ought to pay attention to, so you make a smart, clean and polished impression.
Chipped Nail Polish
There is no excuse at all for stepping out with chipped nail polish. If your remover has run out, make sure you buy a new bottle before applying that deep pink polish. As soon as your nail polish starts chipping, which may be after around 3-4 days, either apply another coat or remove the polish. If you don't have the time to remove it, then by the same logic you shouldn't have the time to apply it either! If you are one of those people who are constantly distracted and running from pillar to post, have a hundred things to do and really don't even notice when your polish starts chipping, the best thing for you to do would be to apply a very light shade, so even if it starts chipping, it is not noticeable.
Untouched roots
If you have started getting white hair and if you colour your hair regularly, make it a point to touch up your roots regularly. Nothing looks worse than jet black hair with a line of white close to the scalp, near the parting. Also, when colouring your hair, you may want to alternate between two colours. This will give your hair a streaked effect, and it looks better and more natural than jet black. When dying your hair you may also want to consider an alternative to jet black. The market is flooded with numerous colours now, and you can choose from a variety of brown and mahogany shades. Alternating between mahogany and brown is a good idea.
Frizzy hair
With numerous ways to combat frizzy hair there is no reason to step out without first taming your hair. Never leave frizzy hair open. If your hair is looking particularly frizzy, tie it up after applying 3-4 drops of oil mixed with water. This will tame frizz. Similarly, if your hair is long, wavy and is thinning from the bottom, never leave it open without curling the ends. This gives body to the ends.
Hairy upperlip
Anyone can get behind on their threading appointment, and this leaves a slight greenish tinge on the upperlip. In the event of this happening, just apply a touch of concealor on your upperlip area. It will help conceal the green colour somewhat. Long hair on the upperlip area is one of the biggest beauty faux pases ever. Always, always thread, wax or bleach the hair on your upperlip area. You could also consider getting it removed permanently by laser, which will cost you between 5,000 to 7,000. If you are regular with hair removal, you don't need to worry about this, but if getting your upperlip done is really a hassle, you should consider saving up for a laser treatment. Remember, the laser does not work on white hair, so if you keep putting it off, you may need to keep threading your upperlip well into your eighties!
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Preventing Pigmentation ProblemsWhy do we tan
Tanning is a way of protecting our skin from exposure to the sun. When the skin comes in contact with UV radiation, pigment-producings cell or melanocytes produce extra melanin, which is the pigment that gives us our colour, in order to absorb the nasty UV radiation and protect the inner cells from damage. So you can safely conclude that the quicker you tan, the less prone are you to getting skin cancer. If you burn easily and don't tan quickly, you should be more wary of the sun. But there are pros and cons to either side, and if you tan easily, you are also more prone to unsightly hyper-pigmentation (darkening of the skin).
What causes uneven pigmentation
When the skin is over-exposed to the sun to a great degree, melanocytes (pigment producing cells) may go into a panic, and produce excessive pigmentation. So what, you ask. All that this means is that I turn a darker shade. Yes, that is true, but the problem is, due to the panic, the nature of the cells may get altered, and you may find that they start producing more melanin permanently. Your tan just may become permanent. However, this is not where the problem lies, as many people would be happy to have a permanent tan. The problem is, not all cells react the same, so while some cells produce extra melanin or colour, others don't, which leads to pigment patches. To make matters worse, certain melanocytes may shut down due to excessive sun exposure, as they are unable to cope. The skin around this cell consequently turns white, and will never tan. (These white patches should not be confused with leucoderma.) This condition is known as hypo-pigmentation, and is even more severe than hyper-pigmentation, as the white skin patches are particularly prone to skin cancer due to their inability to tan.
Prevention
The sun is the skin's greatest enemy, and while a certain amount of sunlight is desirable, UV radiation is not. The sun quickens ageing of the skin and the formation of wrinkles, and causes age spots and freckles, in addition to skin cancer and pigmenation disorders.
Shield your body from the sun as far as possible to prevent discolouration. Wear full sleeves if you are going to be in strong sunlight, cotton, so you do not feel too hot. If you would rather wear short sleeves, make sure you apply adequate sunscreen not just on your face, but on your arms as well.
What is the cure
If you already have discolouration, you could visit a dermatologist who would be able to prescribe appropriate treatment. Mild chemical pigment peels are also available wherein the outer discoloured layer of the skin is peeled off. But unless your skin tone is starkly uneven, or if you have discolouration or patches on your face, I do not see the need for going in for this. Homeopathy medication has also been known to treat pigmentation, but while there are no guarantees, this medication is safe, has no side effects, and is worth a shot.
Drink at least ten glasses of water in a day. Drink two glasses of water in the morning when you wake up, before brushing your teeth.
Try applying lime (nimbu) to the discoloured area. Do this everyday, and wash off after 15 minutes. You could also apply lime to the affected area at night once in a while, and wash off in the morning when you bathe.
Bleaching the affected area once a month will lighten it too. Do not bleach when pregnant.
Various creams and lotions that claim to reduce pigmenation are also available. You could try them to see if they work for you.
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Banish BlackheadsBlackheads are caused by pores blocked with oil. We tend to believe that the black appearance is due to dirt, but in fact, it is simply oil or sebum which has turned black due to the oxidizing effect.
While it is easy to clean the surface of our face, making sure that our pores are clean takes a little more work than just a perfunctory splash of water.
Removal strips
Blackhead removal strips are readily available at all major departmental stores. All you need to do is to wet the strip, place the strip on your nose, which is where blackheads are very likely to form, leave it on till it dries completely, and peel it off.
Steam
You could also try removing blackheads yourself, but make sure you are gentle, or you may cause scarring. Steam your face for around ten minutes with a steamer, or by placing your face over a vessel of boiling water if you do not have a steamer. Form a tent with your towel over your head and around the bowl, to trap the steam. This opens and softens pores, and makes the blackheads easier to remove. Then take a wad of cotton in both hands, and use the cotton to gently squeeze out the blackheads.
Exfoliate
Make sure the blackheads don't reappear by exfoliate your skin with a face scrub, to get rid of dead skin so they do not block pores. Use it on your nose, or wherever you have blackheads. Scrub the area gently. Do not be too harsh as you may cause further damage.
While you need exfoliate your face only twice a week, many women have reported that their blackheads on their nose have totally disappeared after they started using a face scrub on their nose on a daily basis.
Homemade face scrub
You could purchase a face scrub from the market, or make one at home. Beat up the white of an egg, and add a tablespoon of salt. Apply to your face with your fingertips, massaging gently. Wait for it to dry, and wash off with warm water.
You could also make a scrub by adding salt to a lemon and honey mixture. After scrubbing your face, apply a little yogurt to soothe your complexion and balance the pH level.
Prevention
These are temporary remedies, and blackheads will keep re-appearing unless you target the source. Make sure you keep your skin clean, by cleansing, toning and moisturizing it twice a day.
Do not apply make up if your face is sweating. Always clean your face before applying make-up.
Make sure you wash off all traces of makeup before turning in for the night. Never, ever go to bed with make-up still on, as it contributes to blocking pores, and will lead to pimples and blackheads.
Avoid using oil-based make-up if you have oily skin and are prone to developing blackheads.
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Frown LinesPrevention is no doubt better than cure. Of course, with something like wrinkles, you need to fight a constant prevention battle as they just keep on increasing. Our foreheads, eyes and areas around the mouth are the most susceptible to developing wrinkles. While a laugh line here and there looks charming, a wrinkle on the forehead looks less so, not the least because the permanent frown makes you look like an eternal grouch. So here's what you can do to prevent the premature formation of wrinkles and to essentially delay the process.
Sunglasses
We've said it once, and we're saying it again: wear sunglasses before stepping out in the sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV radiation, look cool, and, as if that wasn't enough reason to wear them, they also prevent you from scrunching up your eyes and forehead in the sun. You may not realize this, but if you happen to be out in the afternoon without a pair of shades, you accelerate the development of wrinkles on your forehead.
Moisturisers
Moisturise your face regularly, even if you have an oily complexion. While applying moisturizer to your forehead, run your hands outward to the sides of your head from the center of your forehead. Do this for a minute, thus giving your forehead a gentle massage and relaxing any tense muscles.
Tape
Often when we are concentrating on a particular task, we tend to frown without realizing it, be it working on the computer, reading a book or newspaper, or even cooking. Discourage yourself from frowning involuntarily by applying a thin tape, horizontally, on your forehead, between your brows, for the duration of the task that causes you to frown.
Cures
Thanks to advances in medicine, cures that do not involve surgery, are not so hard to come by.
Wrinkle reducing creams
The market is flooded with a plethora of creams that claim to reduce and even diminish fine wrinkles. Many of these creams work by plumping out the skin and temporarily reducing wrinkles. Thus, these have temporary effects. In fact, due to this plumping out effect, applying wrinkle reducing creams under your eyes is not recommended. When the skin here gets plumped out, it gets stretched more than needed, and this could even speed up the development of wrinkles in this area. Thus your regular facial moisturizer is too heavy for the delicate undereye area. Thus while applying your nightly cream, avoid direct application to the area just ender your eyes. The undereye area will absorb a small amount of cream, which is sufficient. You could also invest in undereye cream, which is just light enough for this area.
Retinol
Creams containing Retinol, which is essentially Vitamin A, do reduce wrinkles as they work by rejuvenating cells at the lower layers of skin. As Retinol can also be drying and some creams containing Retinol may be too strong, it is safest to apply these creams once in two days, and to alternate with a regular moisturizer. Apply the Retinol cream to your forehead and around your mouth, and rub outwards and upwards with a gentle motion.
Botox
Getting rid of frown lines can take years of your face. While this once meant cosmetic surgery, women now have a better option. All it takes is one quick injection during your lunch break, and poof! That large frown line is history. Botox is in fact used to combat only frown lines, and a treatment is so quick, that it can be done over lunch break. However, the effects are temporary, and a Botox injection needs to be given every few months, with a gap of at least three months. Side effects such as headache, nausea, face pain and others have been known to occur.
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Gloss It Up!Gloss is possibly one of the most versatile of all the cosmetics, and its many uses remain a closely guarded secret. Most of us dismiss gloss as part of a teenager's make-up kit, and the only time we do apply it is over a lipstick.
Eyelids
Gloss adds a touch of shimmer to your eyelids, and makes eyes look bigger and wider set. It's great for application during the day, or anytime when you want your eyes to look great without wearing any makeup. Apply a clear gloss or gloss with a touch of pink to your eyelids, and see how your eyes seem to open up.
Similarly, if you dislike applying heavy eye makeup during the day but feel that you may look all washed out and drained, gloss is a great alternative. After applying a little gloss to the eyelids, you can follow up by drawing a thin line with black pencil, on your upper lid, very close to the lashes.
You could substitute the gloss with clear Vaseline if you prefer, but it will not shine like gloss does! In addition, if you apply mascara after applying Vaseline, the mascara is likely to run. Gloss, fortunately, does not make mascara run.
If you are wearing eyeshadow, you could add gloss over your shadow for more shine.
Lashes
Apply a touch of gloss or clear mascara to your eyelashes as well to make them stand out without looking overbearing.
Eyebrows
You could also try applying a little gloss on your eyebrows. Never thought of that, did you? But then skip the gloss on your eyelids. Make sure you just apply a touch of gloss. Don't layer it on like you would on your lips.
Arch
You could also skip the eyelids, lashes and eyebrows, and just apply a touch of gloss on the area below your eyebrows, to the angle of arch, and blend it outwards.
Cheekbones
Bet you never thought of applying a touch of gloss on your cheekbones! While we do everything for our cheekbones to stand out, we fall short of glossing them over. Make sure you apply the same colour over your cheekbones as the one on your eyes. Too many glossy shades looks like too much is happening, and the effect of subtlety you are trying to achieve, is lost.
Cheeks
To look like you're glowing with health and happiness, apply a touch of gloss on your cheeks.
A great trick would be to apply gloss on those areas light first hits the face. So apply it to the tip of your nose (only if you have a small nose though. If your nose is large, you want to draw attention away from it, and not towards it!) Apply it on your cheeks and on your brow bones as well. Be careful not to overdo it, as you don't want your entire face to be glossed over! Just a few areas, very subtly. The only areas you can apply gloss liberally to are your eyelids and lips. Otherwise, apply a very little, and pat it with your fingers.
The transparent shine of gloss accentuates features naturally, without adding any colour. The effect is light, ethereal and completely make-up free. And unlike when you apply colour, no contouring is necessary. Just layer it on, and leave it. The subtle but glassy sheen left by gloss is simply perfect for daytime wear.
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AcneWhat is acne?
Acne consists of those terrible, red, swollen, pus-filled pimples which are the every woman's worst nightmare. The most common form of acne is known as acne vulgaris, usually found on women with oily skin. Acne occurs most often during puberty, because hormonal changes cause a greater secretion of sebum or oil. The oil blocks the pores, causing acne. Almost every woman will experience a few acne pimples at some point in her life.
There are various other factors that could cause acne.
- Pores clogged by dirt or pollution.
- An undue amount of stress.
- Hormonal changes caused by menstruation.
- Too many soft drinks and too much fried food or chocolates.
- Do your parents have a pimple problem? Genes could be a factor.
- Some forms of medication.
- Dandruff or a greasy scalp. Certain types of products you use in your hair could also irritate your skin, causing acne.
While acne is commonly seen at adolescence, many women get it during pregnancy as well, again due to hormonal changes. However, a few months after delivery the acne subsides as the hormone levels normalize. Surprising as it may sound, many women get acne for the first time in their mid-thirties or forties! This type of acne is called acne rosacea.
Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment
The next time you pick up a face wash or pimple cure cream read the list of ingredients to find out if it contains benzoyl peroxide, very effective for fighting acne. Acne is bacteria, growing in a clogged pore, and benzoyl peroxide fights bacteria. Just make sure you smear enough of it, and use it often. Your skin will start clearing up.
Fight acne on your back by making sure you scrub your back with a loofah or rough cloth while showering, after applying soap. Giving your bath a one minute scrub everyday will work wonders. If you exercise, take a shower after your workout. Don't wait too long, or the sweat will dry up and clog pores, only aggravating the acne. Apply benzoyl peroxide on your back as well.
Benzoyl peroxide is drying, so if your face or back feels very dry, realize that this is normal. Once your face is clean, you can reduce the amount of cream you apply, and your skin will gradually return to normal.
Other Treatment Options
Antibiotics: Acne can usually be treated by antibiotics. Some antibiotics for acne are very strong, and have severe side effects. The hair may start falling, or the woman may even experience difficulty during childbirth. Never, ever take any acne medication that has been prescribed for another person.
The pill: Some birth control pills can also help treat acne. This is because the hormones in the pill can stabilize the hormones that are causing the oily sebum, which causes acne.
Lazer: Lazer treatments are also effective in treating acne, but this is an expensive option. However, acne medication could also make a rather large hole in your pocket as well!
Irritation: Avoid any form of irritation to your skin. Don't pick at it or touch it too much, avoid scrubbing it with a harsh cloth, keep hair away from your face and never use substandard makeup.
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My Fair LadyYou can be beautiful even if you are dark, and unattractive even if you are fair. So why lay such a premium on fair skin.
Why is it so important to be fair
We all know women who are beautiful even if they are not light skinned, and we all know fair skinned girls who are unattractive. Still, all of us spend hours trying to lighten our skin and on wishing that we had lighter skin, and thousands of rupees on products that claim to lighten our skin.
More damaging than the time and money spent, is the inbuilt belief that you are in some manner inferior because you are not 'fair'.
Girls with dark complexions grow up wishing that they had lighter skin, and often develop an inferiority complex. Thankfully, for some, this complex vanishes as they grow older and wiser and discover numerous abilities and talents, but sadly, others never seem to be able to let go of the feeling of inadequacy. Not surprisingly though, when you take a look at any matrimonial ad, and the text will in all probability say looking for a convent educated, fair, beautiful girl And considering that our entire culture evolves around marriage, fair women suddenly seem to command a premium.
Any wonder then that a girl with dark skin will want to lighten it
Beauty companies feed off this inbuilt insecurity, and make millions as they sell their fairness creams to women. The ads make it seem so easy if you transform yourself into a fair skinned woman, you will get the job you want, and the man you want. Needless to say, it's not that easy, and no matter what you believe at the moment, the colour of your skin should be the lowest on your list of beautification priorities. Concentrate the time, effort and money that you would on trying to get fair, on something else, and the results would be far more satisfying.
Here are some tips:
It's a mistaken belief that if you have dark skin, you should not colour your hair light. Nothing is further from the truth. Don't hesitate before adding blonde highlights. They brighten up your complexion, making you look radiant.
Take care of your hair, and ensure it is always well groomed.
If you have frizzy, flyaway hair, style it regularly so it doesn't look messy. 32 year old Hetal doesn't even remember what her hair looks like without blowdrying it, because she is so particular about blowdrying and styling her hair after every wash.
If you don't have the time or patience for blowdrying your hair regularly, get your hair permed. If you are light skinned, you can get away with sporting frizzy hair, but if you are dark, with dark, frizzy hair, colouring it and then blowdrying it straight even if you don't opt for chemical straightening, can make a world of a difference.
White and red suits dark skinned women, so wear these colours often. I know many women whose entire wardrobe consists only of 2-3 colours, because they know what colours suit them, and don't see the need to wear anything else. You could also figure out what colours don't suit you, and stay away from them. There is really no need to possess a top in every colour under the sun. If you have the features, cut your hair short (think Halle Berry). Not everyone can carry off hair this short, but if you can, go for it, as short hair that looks good looks far more effective and attractive than long hair.
Do fairness creams work
They do, to a certain extent. Don't fool yourself into believing that they will make you fair. They will, at the most, lighten your skin slightly, but glowing skin will only come from within. Exercise regularly, and before long your skin will start glowing with health and vitality and a glowing, healthy skin beats light, pale and unhealthy skin any day!
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More on ExfoliationWe have already seen how often you should exfoliate, depending on your age and skin type. Read more about the benefits of exfoliating your entire body.
Exfoliation isn't just for the face. Regular exfoliating and moisturizing will ensure that your skin looks smooth well into your fifties, but then what about your neck. We have all seen unlined, ageless faces perched atop wrinkled necks. If you don't want this to happen to you, understand the importance of treating your neck with as much care as you treat your face, and start exfoliating and moisturizing it now. Exfoliate your neck at least twice a week. Wet your face before exfoliating, and then gently rub your skin using a circular motion, with clean hands.
Always use products designed only for the face, whether you are exfoliating your face or your neck. Exfoliating scrubs designed for the body will be too harsh for the face and you run the risk of bursting blood vessels. Yes, there is such a thing called over-exfoliation, so ensure that you are very gentle at all times. If you exfoliate daily, rub your skin very gently or, ideally, use an exfoliating face wash.
The enzymes in papaya too are great for exfoliating the skin. Mash a papaya and apply it to your face, avoiding the delicate area under your eyes. Rinse off after fifteen minutes with tepid water.
Every once a month, try this before your shower. Take some granulated salt in a small bowl and mix in enough olive oil to make a paste. Apply the mixture all over your body. Leave on for around ten to fifteen minutes while you complete your other morning rituals. Scrub off in a gentle, circular motion, with the help of a bath sponge, if required. This mask removes dead cells from all over your body, leaving your skin clean, fresh and glowing. After you finish off with your shower, don't forget to apply a generous amount of body cream all over.
The rough areas of your elbows and knees, and the soles of the feet also require regular exfoliation to prevent them from turning dry and dark. In order for moisturizer to really penetrate these areas, they need to be clean and free from dead cells. If they are covered with a thick layer of sebum and dead cells, you can apply as much moisturizer as you want, to little avail. These areas require strong exfoliation, and nothing works as well as a pumice stone. Scrub your elbows, knees and feet, concentrating on the heels with a pumice stone daily while bathing, and follow up with moisturizer.
Don't forget to exfoliate your lips too. Lips benefit greatly from exfoliation. As all of us know, lips dry out faster than many other areas of our body, and are constantly peeling and cracking. Exfoliating lips gently, regularly, helps get rid of dead, dry skin, so when you follow up with your favourite lip balm you really see results. The best way to exfoliate lips is to scrub them gently, daily with a soft toothbrush.
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Pimples on the Back Every minute our skin sheds millions of dead cells. Instead of simply falling off and giving way to fresh cells underneath, these dead cells hang on, causing innumerable skin problems. The solution to most of these problems lies in exfoliation.
Often, when we apply soap to our bodies, it is not sufficient to remove all the layers of dirt, oil, dead skin cells and sebum blocking our pores. Although it is easy enough to clean the face well with a face wash as we tend to spend a minute or so scrubbing it, the same does not hold true for our entire body. Most of us just layer on the soap and wash it off. While we may spend more time cleaning our hands and stomach with the soap, we tend to neglect our back. This leads us to develop unsightly pimples and boils on the back, and if you live in a warm and humid climate, you will be especially prone to such pimples. Readers often write in and ask me what they can do to cure such skin problems. The answer lies in exfoliation. All you need to do is to scrub your back with a loofah or washcloth when in the shower. Apply soap, scrub your entire body well, concentrating on your back, and wash off. Your soap will also foam up much more, with the result that you will need to use less soap while bathing!
Scrub your entire body, not just the back. Remember to scrub towards the heart, which means up from the legs and stomach, and down from the shoulders.
The benefits of scrubbing are many. Not only does it clean up the skin completely, clearing out pores and enabling your body to pump out toxins more effectively, but it also reduces the likelihood of developing unsightly cellulite. In addition, scrubbing pumps up blood circulation and aids blood flow to the heart.
Treat your body to a wonderful spa-like salt scrub. Salt scrubs are famous for their ability to transform even dry, coarse skin into soft, glowing skin. You will need:
1 cup sea salt
Enough water or oil to form a paste. Oil is preferable to water.
Loofah
Dampen your entire body and then massage this mixture all over. You should enlist the help of a masseur or your spouse to do this. Once you have applied this mixture on your entire body, take a loofah and start scrubbing in a circular motion, working the mixture into your skin. Work upwards, beginning at the feet. After a half an hour massage, take a shower with warm water, and towel dry. Your skin will feel incredibly soft, and will be glowing with richness! For maximum benefit, do this on a weekly basis, and if that is not possible, do this at least once a month.
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Wrinkle Prevention If you thought it was impossible to look 25-30 when you are in your fifties, think again. With care, a smooth, wrinkle-free complexion can be yours for years to come.
Fruits
Face masks refresh and rejuvenate the skin. They provide intensive nourishment to the skin nourishment that your skin is thrusting for, so make sure you use face masks regularly on your skin. Almost every seasonal fruit can be applied on the skin. Some fruits like peaches and avocadoes are rich in moisturizers and can be applied to dry skin, while other fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, strawberries, apples, are good for oily skin. Bananas too nourish and soften the skin. So the next time you sit down with a fruit, take out a small piece, mash it and apply it to your face. When you start looking a decade younger than your real age, you will be glad you persevered. For some serious skin firming and nourishment, mash a banana, add honey, and apply this on your skin, and all over your body.
Egg
Egg white tones the skin, while egg yolk nourishes it and prevents wrinkles. If your daughter has an oily complexion, she can put egg white on her skin, while you use the egg yolk on yours. Once you cross the age of 35, start applying egg yolk regularly to your skin. Whole egg mayonnaise too is excellent for the skin, since it is rich in skin nutrients like egg, vinegar and oil.
Essential oils
Essential oils too are excellent for the skin, and they have therapeutic benefits as well. When you are using two oils on your skin, you should make sure you mix them together a while before applying them, to give them time to energise each other. Jasmine, Lavender, Myrrh, Patchouli, Sandalwood and Ylang-Ylang all have effective anti-wrinkle properties and work very well when mixed with a moisturizer.
Massage
Every day and night, while you apply your moisturizer, massage your face for at least ten minutes. Massage it from the neck upwards, because you don't want a clear, wrinkle-free face to rest on a wrinkled neck as you age, do you? Regular facials too help keep your skin looking young till a later age, but if you cannot afford to spend so much time or money at the parlour, even giving yourself a regular massage at home will help. The correct massage strokes would be upwards and backwards toward your hairline. Don't pull your skin too hard. In fact, one of the great ways to massage your face would be to slap it quickly and hard, once again, in an upward and backward direction. This stimulates blood flow and increases circulation, which in turn ensures that a rich supply of nutrients are carried to the skin through the blood. Splashing your face with ice-cold water has a similar effect.
Some people have the tendency to develop puffiness in the face. Regular massage and skin slapping reduces puffiness and leaves skin tight and smooth.
If you feel the beginnings of a double chin, when applying your daily moisturizer slap your double chin area with rapid strokes. Your double chin will vanish.
When you apply under-eye cream, tap the under-eye area rapidly with your fingertips, to pimp up circulation and reduce under-eye puffiness.
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Tomato MeNot many of us relish getting pelted on the face with tomatoes, but believe it or not, tomatoes are excellent for the skin.
The humble tomato is one item no kitchen shelf is ever without, no matter what the season or location. Perhaps this is why most of us take the tomato for granted and do not appreciate the tremendous health and beauty benefits it brings.
Not many of us relish getting pelted on the face with tomatoes, but believe it or not, tomatoes are excellent for the skin. In fact, as far as anti-ageing products go, tomatoes rank high on the list.
Tomatoes are rich in anti-oxidants and so they counter the ageing effects on the skin, by cutting out the number of free radicals in your body. Free radicals break down the support system for your hair and skin, so it makes sense to eat a tomato a day.
In addition, tomatoes help preserve moisture levels in the body. In the summer or winter, when our skin is exposed to artificial heating or cooling, moisture levels in our body fall. We need to constantly replenish this water supply, or our body will start sorrying moisture from the skin and the hair. In addition to eating a tomato a day, it makes sense to drink no less than 10 to 12 glasses of water daily.
If your skin is oily, you can apply tomatoes to your face. It counters oily skin by absorbing surplus oil and also helps get rid of pimples and acne. Apply undiluted tomato paste to your face and leave on for 15 minutes. Wash off with warm, not hot, water. In addition, tomatoes also help lighten the complexion, especially if mixed with cucumber juice. This makes a great face mask for oily skin. Place a cucumber slice on each eyelid and cover the rest of your face with the mask, taking care to avoid the delicate under-eye area.
If your skin is dry, you can add some day-old curd to the tomato paste and then apply to your skin. Tomato masks have excellent anti-ageing properties, so start applying them once you cross the age of 25.
If your skin starts burning when you apply to tomato mask, wash it off. You should feel a gentle tingling sensation after applying the tomato but if it stings too much, you could wash it off and add curd before applying the mask.
Do you have a boil or a pimple? Apply tomato paste to it. The acids from the tomato will soothe the pain of a boil and will also speed its recovery.
Slightly red cheeks looks healthy and very appealing. Eating tomatoes regularly gives you a pink and glowing complexion, so eat up!
Hair Tip
If ever your hair has absorbed foul odour which you are not able to lose despite shampooing it, a great way to neutralize this odour and get rid of the smell would be to apply undiluted tomato paste to your scalp. Leave on for fifteen minutes and then wash it off. Your hair should be odour-free, and dandruff free.
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Is Toning NecessaryIt is universally accepted that we need to cleanse and moisturize our skin regularly, but do we really need to use a toner?
To tone or not to tone?
Although it is universally accepted that we need to cleanse and moisturize our skin regularly, opinion is divided on whether we really need to use a toner on our skin. Most women simply skip applying a toner because they don't understand what it does. Does it clean the skin? You use a cleanser, why do you need a toner? Does it remove traces of cleansing lotion? You clean your face with a face wash.
Why do you need a toner?
The first and most important job of a toner is to restore the skin's natural pH balance. The skin has a pH balance of 5.5, while water can have a pH balance as high as 9.5 depending on where you live and on how hard the water is. After washing your skin, your skin's pH balance is completely distorted and your skin starts working overtime to restore pH levels; a process which may take up to half an hour. On the other hand, if you use toner, pH levels are restored in an instant. Your skin is now prepared for the moisturizer.
What toner should I use?
Certain toners clarify and exfoliate the skin, leaving it completely oil and dirt free and removing all dead skin cells. Such toners are strong and tend to contain alcohol, which is ultra-drying. If your skin is very oily using a stronger alcohol-based toner like Clean and Clear should help reduce the oiliness, but there is a possibility that it could also cause more break-outs. The over-drying action of stronger toners causes skin to react by producing excessive oil to combat the dryness, leading to more breakouts. It is thus safer to use an alcohol-free toner. Different skins react differently though, so it is important that you stick with a regime for a couple of weeks before you can tell whether a particular product suits your skin or not.
If your skin is normal to dry go in for a gentle toner that doesn't exfoliate the skin but moisturizes it such as Nivea Alcohol-Free Moisturising Toner. Or you could go in for a toner with anti-ageing properties.
Natural option: One of the gentlest toners is natural rosewater. Splash it on your face to keep face moisturized, fresh and to balance pH levels. This may not be ideal if you have oily skin, but since it is so gentle, it may provide you with just the right amount of moisturizing level you need.
How should you apply toner?
If you apply the toner directly on your face without using cotton, your bottle will last longer. Exfoliating toners do need to be applied with cotton wool, but moisturizing toners can be just splashed on your face. Apply toner to a cotton ball and sweep it GENTLY across your face. The cotton wool should come out relatively clean when toning. If it doesn't, you need to change your cleanser; it's not doing its job.
There is also the temptation to scrub your face clean with toner every time it feels dirty, which should be avoided. This is why you should use these toners only after cleansing, when your skin is already clean so your toner functions as a toner, not as a cleanser.
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Skin Care at 30You've probably spent most of your teenage and early twenties trying to get oil off your skin. But now that you've reached your thirties and your skin is fabulous, here's what you can do to ensure it stays the same another thirty years.
Hydrate
At thirty your face needs moisture and hydration throughout the day. If thick, expensive creams are not for you, here's how you can make your own facial hydrator at home. You will need:
Distilled water, available at grocery stores
3-4 drops of rose or chamomile essential oil
Mix the above ingredients and pour the mixture into a small spray bottle. Carry this along with you in your bag, and keep spraying your face throughout the day, especially if you will be spending time in an air-conditioned environment. Always shake the bottle before use. Your face will feel refreshed and re-hydrated.
If distilled water is not easily available where you live, try and make your own by collecting steam by boiling water and condensing the steam.
Nourish
Masks are undoubtedly excellent for your skin, as they provide much needed nourishment. Think about it. Your face is exposed to the elements throughout the day, and the only form of nourishment it gets is a smattering of moisturizer every now and again. Although we should be applying face masks regularly, how many of us do so Some of us apply facemasks once a month, while others do so no more than 2-3 times a year. Ideally we should apply a nourishing (as opposed to deep cleansing) facemask weekly, even daily if possible. Can you imagine the difference applying a face mask daily will make to your skin ten years down the line You don't need to invest hundreds of rupees to do this. Make your own facemasks by using ingredients from your kitchen shelf. Egg yolk, honey, bananas, day old yogurt all are excellent for the skin, so just splat on whatever is handy. Don't stick to the same face mask all the time. Keep applying something different.
Diet
Diet too plays an important part in your skin's health. Always eat fresh foods, and opt for tanned food only in times of emergency. Your diet mantra should be:
Vegetables
Fruits
Nuts
Water
If you make sure you eat enough of these in abundance and lay off fried, greasy and junk food, you're all set and on the right path to fabulous skin at 60, and, who knows, maybe seventy! Just don't forget to write in and tell us how you did it!
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Exfoliate Your Face!How often do you exfoliate your skin? Is it enough? How should you exfoliate? Read on for information on exfoliation and a great homemade scrub recipe.
The older you grow, the more often you need to exfoliate your skin. As we all know, skin cells die and new cells keep getting regenerated. These dead cells come to rest on the top layer of our skin, making our skin look dull, and, in some cases, patchy. Although dead skin is replaced naturally by new cells, this process takes longer as we age, making our skin look duller and patchier for greater lengths of time. This is why regular exfoliation becomes a must.
How often should I exfoliate?
In your twenties, exfoliate skin twice a week with a granular face scrub. These are gentle on the skin. In your thirties, exfoliate skin every alternate day, or on a daily basis. You can do this by adding exfoliation to your 3-step routine. So your routine can be cleansing, toning and moisturizing once a day, and cleansing, exfoliating, toning and moisturizing the second time around. You can cut down the process by simply using an exfoliating face wash.
Once you enter your forties, you can consider going in for a few microdermabrasion treatments. This treatment entails the use of an abrasive crystal that removes dry, dead tissue and encourages rejuvenation. It is non-surgical, does not require anesthesia, and you can be back at work the same day. Around five to eight treatments should suffice through your forties, and when you reach the age of fifty, go in for a chemical peel.
How should I exfoliate?
Apply face scrub on wet skin after cleansing, and scrub using gentle, circular motions. Wash off with cool or tepid water. Follow up with toner and moisturizer. Once a week, go in for a deep cleansing treatment. Steam your face and then scrub it well with a face scrub. Apply a mud mask to your face and leave on for ten minutes. The properties of the mask will get well and truly absorbed by the skin. Then, wash off the mask make sure you use cool or tepid water, never hot water and follow up with toner and moisturizer. Do this once a week, or once a fortnight, no matter what your age.
Will regular exfoliation help get rid of blackheads?
Yes, exfoliation helps keep a check on blackheads. If an area is prone to blackheads, pay special attention to the area while exfoliating. For example, if you have blackheads on your nose, and even if you do not exfoliate daily, try scrubbing just your nose with your face scrub daily. Over time the blackheads will vanish.
Any homemade recipes?
Here's how you can make your own all-natural exfoliating mask at home.
1 tsp sugar (granulated, not powdered)
1 tsp honey
1 tsp plain yogurt
Mix the ingredients together and apply it to your face. Leave it on for ten minutes, and rinse with water, scrubbing gently. Your face will feel dewy and soft.
And finally
Remember that exfoliation dries out skin, so always apply moisturizer after exfoliating. If you apply moisturizer after exfoliation, not only will the dryness vanish, but the moisturizer will also be able to penetrate the skin deeper, since dead cells are not blocking its path. As a result, your daily moisturizer will become doubly effective!
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Face MassageThere are numerous benefits to a face massage. If you have easy access to an inexpensive parlour, get a regular facial done. Alternatively, here's how you can give yourself a great face massage at home.
Glowing skin
Healthy and glowing skin is one of the most important beauty assets. It doesn't matter how light your skin if it looks sallow and pale. You will only look drawn, tired out and sickly. Most of us concentrate on trying to get our complexions pimple-free, or on lightening our skin. However, just a light, pimple-free complexion does not ensure good looks. Enhancing features with make-up does help, but nothing looks as good as healthy, glowing skin.
Puffiness
Some women have a tendency to develop puffiness on their faces. One of the best ways to counter puffiness is to massage your face regularly.
Wrinkles
Massage stimulates circulation and brings more oxygen to the face. It also stimulates the production of collagen and tightens the skin. It also delays the onset of wrinkles. In addition, wrinkles on the forehead are often caused due to involuntary tightening of the muscles. Massage relaxes the muscles, and delays the formation of forehead wrinkles.
Double chin
Do you have a tendency to get a double chin Even some extremely thin people develop double chins. Regular face massage tightens the loose flesh under the chin so it doesn't hang down.
Massage Technique
You will need face cream, and a bowl of cold water.
Remove your top so you can massage your neck as well, without getting cream all over your clothes.
Wash your hands and cleanse your face.
Sit back on a chair, and apply a generous amount of cream on your face and neck. Massage it gently into your skin.
Take some cold water from the bowl, and apply it to your face as well. You could start from the neck. Lift your chin up and massage your neck using upward strokes.
Then massage the area just under your skin. Use firm strokes. Start from the center, move your hands under your jaw, outwards to the ear. Do this around 20 times or more, depending on how much time you have, and then using small upward strokes, work the entire under-chin area from side to side.
Massage the rest of your face, using upward and outward strokes, and circular motions. Keep reapplying water and cream on your face.
Circle your eyes, pressing down on the temples.
Similarly, use upward and outward strokes on your forehead.
Make a V with two fingers of one hand and put it on your face. Using the index finger of the other hand, massage the skin inside the V area. Move this 'V' all around your face.
Use quick, sharp slapping strokes on your cheeks. 'Slap' yourself for at least 2-3 minutes.
Remember that your entire massage session should consist of upward and outward strokes. Never massage the skin on your face in a downward direction, because your constant endeavour is to fight gravity.
In addition to a face massage, make sure you exercise regularly and drink at least 10 to 12 glasses of water a day.
Some people may develop pimples after a massage. If you develop a few pimples, wait until the pimples go, and use another cream the next time.
Wash your face with cold water after a massage.
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Puffy FaceDoes your face tend to look puffy every now and again Here are some possible reasons, and what you can do to get rid of the puffiness.
Do you ever wake up in the morning and wonder what happened to your face? It looks bloated and puffy, and you have no idea what went wrong. You just put it down to a bad face day, do whatever makeup you can to look a little better, and continue with your day believing that whatever went wrong will just correct itself eventually. There's nothing you can do about it, right Wrong.
First, think about this. Did you exercise today? If not, why not Perhaps because there is no real sense of urgency. If we don't exercise 3 times a week, we don't fall sick on the weekend. But, if our bodies did indeed tell us what we are doing wrong regularly, we would definitely pay more heed.
However, what most of us don't realize, is that our bodies do let us know, in various ways, that something we are doing is wrong, but most of us either don't notice, or ignore it until it goes away and we feel the full effects only years later,
Our face is an accurate indicator of our health. When our bodies are undergoing hormonal changes, we know because we start developing pimples, or thicker facial hair. When we are very stressed, we start experiencing hairfall. When we smoke too much, our lips go black much before our lungs collapse. Similarly, the effects of unhealthy habits such as an improper diet or lack of exercise are only visible years later. When we start putting on weight, develop high blood pressure, problems with our kidneys or lungs due to excessive smoking or drinking, heart problems, or when we develop any other of the numerous lifestyle related problems, we start getting more conscious about our health and habits. Our faces are thus telling us what we did wrong recently. We drank too much Coke or alcohol, ate too many burgers, or exercised too little.
Similarly our faces get puffy when:
We are dehydrated. If we haven't had enough water to drink, our bodies tend to absorb whatever water it can, and as a result blood vessels enlarge, leading to a puffy face. To prevent this, make sure you drink a glass of water every night before going to bed. Keep a bottle of water by your bedside table so you never forget to take that last glass of water. If you wake up and see that your face is puffy, reach for some water immediately and drink up. Avoid tea or coffee, since these are diuretics and will flush even more water out of your system. Keep drinking water through the day, and the puffiness, if caused by dehydration, should reduce.
Our diet is inadequate. We need to take in some fat, so that our skin stays supple. In addition, if your body lacks in beta-carotene or vitamin C, it will show in your face. One of the best things you can have to instantly nourish you and your skin is watermelon juice. Put a large piece of the fruit, along with the seeds, in a blender, extract the juice and drink up.
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Oily SkinIs your skin oily If so, here's what you can do to combat two of the most common problems that accompany oily skin: pimples, and shine.
If you have oily skin, we have some good news and some bad news for you. First, the bad news. People with oily skin have more of a tendency to develop pimples, blackheads and whiteheads, as you probably already know. In addition, your face starts shining due to the oil, making it look dull and dirty. Now for the good news. The excessive oil keeps your skin more elastic, so you will develop wrinkles at a later age than your friends with dry skin will.
This is a basic guide to what you can do to combat two of the most common problems that accompany oily skin.
Pimples
One of the most common causes for the formation of pimples is blocked pores. People with oily skin are more likely to have blocked pores, and so, are more likely to have pimples. Your best bet in this case would be simply to wash your face often, with a face wash for oily skin. Clean and Clear by Johnson and Johnson is fairly effective in this regard. How often you should wash your face differs from person to person. A good rule of thumb would be to wash it with a face wash at least 2 times a day once in the morning, and once at night, before turning in. If you are in an air-conditioned cabin the entire day, then you need not wash your face more than required, and stick to the once in the morning and once at night rule. If you exercise, whether your face is oily or not, wash your face also as soon as you are done with your workout. Wash it at the gym itself, and don't wait until you get home, because the perspiration will dry on your face, causing pimples. Similarly, if you travel by public transport and are exposed to a lot of dirt, pollution and warm, humid air, try and wash your face during mid-day as well, bringing it to a total of 3 to 4 times a day. Remember though, if you wash your face more than three times a day, use a gentler face wash like Dove, or wash it just with water.
Shine
How should you get rid of the shine that accompanies an oily face. The best thing would be to splash water on your face as soon as it starts looking oily, and wipe it gently with a towel or tissue. You could also wash your face with a gentle face wash when it starts looking oily, but, once again, don't use a face wash more than 4 times a day, as this may cause your skin to produce more oil.
However, washing your face during the day may not be very convenient, since you may not have ready access to a washroom. Or, you may have applied make up, and would not want go through the procedure of re-applying all the make-up after washing your face. In this case, consider simply wiping your face with an absorbent face tissue. Carry tissue with you in your bag at all times it always comes in handy.
If you are satisfied with the lack of shine after wiping your face with tissue, great! If not, then consider carrying a compact powder case with you. Dab on the compact powder lightly, making sure it blends well. The compact powder should not be visible as your face will then look caked, and you will look older, and may even look a little haggard. Your compact powder may cause pimples too at times, so if you find your pimples increasing after applying compact, stop using your current brand, and try another brand after a few weeks.
To avoid any problems with compact powder usage, the best thing to do would be to remove the compact powder as soon as you get home with the help of a face wash or a cleanser. Also, never apply old compact powder on your face.
Use oil-free cosmetics as far as possible. Also, apply an oil-free moisturizer even if you have oily skin, as long as your skin is problem free. Although many beauticians feel that moisturizer is a must at all times, I would recommend that you lay off the moisturizer if you have pimples, until your face is clear.
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Facial HairIt's bad enough when you have a lot of hair on your body, but the most annoying is when you have a thick growth of hair on the face.
There are millions such stories of women struggling to cope with facial hair. If you too are one of the numerous women with the same problem, realize that you are not alone in this, and that there is a lot you can do without resorting to drastic means.
Threading
Thread the hair on your upperlip and chin. Read this article for step-by-step instructions to threading. Threading will help you remove even the tiniest and finest of hair, whereas, if you wax, you will need to wait for hair to grow before you can wax it off again.
If you don't have a lot of hair on the chin, instead of threading, selectively pluck just the thick hair. Don't get tempted to pluck fine hair, because it will grow back thicker. Also, thread your eyebrows, but you may want to leave this to professionals. Don't try threading your brows yourself unless you are skilled in threading, because you may mess up the shape. If you have a lot of hair on your forehead, you could thread it when you are doing your eyebrows. Don't thread your forehead if you are prone to developing pimples on this area. Bleaching would be a better solution.
If you don't live in India, and don't have easy access to someone who can thread your eyebrows, pluck them regularly, or get them waxed by a beautician.
Waxing
It is not very feasible to wax your entire face. You could, however, wax your sideburns. Fortunately, sideburns take a while to grow back, and over time, with regular waxing, the growth will reduce. However, be careful to ensure that you don't wax off very fine hair when waxing the sideburns. Wax only the very thickest portion of the sideburns, so the fine hair doesn't grow back thicker or gradually you will need to wax your cheeks as well.
So now you have tackled the main problem areas, which are the upperlip, chin, sideburns and eyebrows. If you have a lot of hair on your cheeks as well, instead of waxing such a large portion of your face, simply apply bleach to your entire face. If you bleach sideburns that are very hairy, blonde hair is often clearly visible. However, now that you have waxed off the hairiest part of your sideburns, bleach your entire face. Your face will look clean, fresh and free of hair.
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5 Top Beauty SecretsHow to pluck the perfect brow, de-puff your eyes, and have skin that looks young and healthy for years to come. Read on for great beauty tips and secrets.
Brows
The perfect arch can make a word of difference to your face, but it is not always easily achievable. Often when we get our brows threaded by different beauticians at a parlour, there is bound to be some variation in the shape. It is important to get your brows threaded or waxed by the same beautician every time, as far as possible. If plucking your brows yourself, be very, very careful that you don't over pluck. It is possible that hair from some places may not grow back, leaving you with a permanent gap in your brows. Try this: take a white eye pencil and colour out the hair you want removed. Once you have a perfect brow shape, you can then start plucking out the coloured portion.
Face powder
Once swab of face powder, and your face will remain oil-free and fresh for a long time. Make sure you carry this with you wherever you go, so if your face gets oily again, you can simply dab on some more face powder. In addition, this can also be used to mask most imperfections in your skin, making it seem smooth and flawless so make sure you're never without this tool. On the other hand, don't forget to wash it off at night.
Eyes
Have your eyes been looking a little tired lately Internationally renowned make-up artist Trish McEvoy's favourite remedy for puffy eyes is to simply place a couple of spoons in the freezer for a few minutes. When the spoons get cold, she places them on the bags of her eyes. Immediately after this, she applies an under-eye cream for an instant moisturizing burst. To brighten eyes, always wear mascara so eyes stand out. Once this is done, try lining the inner lower rim of your eyes with white eyeliner.
Lips
Who wouldn't love to have thick, full lips Always remember that a matte lipstick may make your lips stand out more, but a gloss lipstick makes your lips look fuller and more sensuous. And if getting injected for fuller lips is not an option, stick to glossy lipsticks. The best way to apply lipstick so your lips stand out is to first line your lips with a lip liner. Line just outside your natural lip line. Lining your lips far outside your lip line looks obvious and smutty. After lining your lips, apply a soft, moisture-rich lipstick and follow up with gloss.
Water
The best thing you can do to make your skin look young and healthy is to moisturize it. And we don't just mean moisturize it from the outside, but from within. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to keep your skin looking supple and young. If you have ever worked with models or actresses, you will see that many of them never venture out without packing a bottle of water, and keep sipping through the day. Pair this with regular application of moisturizer, and you're all set.
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The Nose JobOn a hunt for the perfect nose? If you have been toying with the idea of going in for a nose job, here's what you should know.
Your nose sits pretty (or not so pretty) at the centre of your face, and one that is too large, bumpy or bulbous can take away from otherwise attractive features. Here's how you can tell if you are a good candidate for a rhinoplasty - or a nose job.
Do you really need a nose job?
Firstly, understand that you are by no means the best person to answer this question. Not only have you seen your reflection in the mirror millions of times, but you have also mentally magnified every imperfection in your face and body. That bump on the nose that seems so glaring to you may be invisible to most others, including your closest friends. So take a few honest opinions before committing yourself to surgery and remember, what you consider as ugly often passes unnoticed by others. After all, those minor imperfections in your nose could be your sex appeal!
If you have been upset about your nose for many years, if it makes you self-conscious and affects your confidence, you could perhaps consider going in for a nose job.
Are you in good health?
Needless to say, persons with certain health problems may not be able to withstand the demands surgery places on their bodies. You need to be fairly fit and healthy before going in for surgery.
Are you psychologically stable?
A nose job can have emotional ramifications. Results from the surgery will not be immediate. You will have swelling, and may develop blotches on the face. This swelling will go down after a few weeks. Thus, you will definitely come out looking worse for wear in the weeks following the surgery. It can take anywhere from a month to two for you to fully recover and enjoy your new nose! A person who is not mentally strong may go into depression when their reflection in the mirror day after day seems to only get worse.
Do you have realistic expectations?
Often, a person undergoes a nose job after years of debating whether or not he should have one. As such, his expectations tend to be extremely high. Remember, your life is not going to change after you get a nose job. In fact, chances are, people may not even realise you have had plastic surgery! Add this to the fact that recovery time is slow, painful and uncomfortable, and you have a huge chance of being disappointed and depressed after the surgery.
Will the benefits outweigh the risks in your case?
Surgery is not a matter to be taken lightly. Risks associated with rhinoplasty are very few, but make sure the benefits outweigh these risks. You are likely to develop redness on your face, and at times, although not often, these red spots can be permanent. However, they can easily be concealed with makeup. A lot of people swear that they prefer a little redness to an ugly nose. Others report increase in allergies, nosebleeds and side effects to the anaesthesia.
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Fighting and Living with Acne
Acne not only affects skin adversely but also dents self-confidence. Read on if you want to be confident while you get treated for acne.
You have been fighting acne and everyday seems like a mountain. You do not feel like moving out of your house. Your dressing table is full of different acne solutions that you have tried. You are forever trying some or the other treatment in the hopes that something might just work. You prefer to remain indoors and are scared of attending any social events. You might even be worried if people think you are ugly. You keep craving for the radiant skin models and actresses who keep flaunting their skin in ads. Sometimes you feel like giving it all up and just let the situation be.
Do you think your Acne is a menace?
Your daily fight with acne simply drives you crazy. You are looking out for a solution everywhere and acne does not want to leave you. At such times you need to be very patient. Never pick and pop zits, this can spread infection and add to the problem.
Acne takes time to heal and you must be kind to yourself till your acne gets cured. You must remember that there are other skin diseases that are far more difficult to combat. Skin problems like Psoriasis and Rosacea take time to heal and people suffering with them would find living with acne much easier. So think about it and seek medical help if your acne is difficult to deal with.
Is Acne affecting your Self-Confidence?
In a world where a lot of importance is laid on looks, a person with acne may find it difficult to cope with the social demands. You must never allow others to judge you or allow others to make you feel inferior because you have acne. You are fighting it and with help you will have clear skin.
Never let your self confidence get affected because of a bunch of pimples on your face. Difficult it may and sound be, you are as unique as anyone else in the world. It is just a matter of a treatment and with care you can say bye-bye to pimples.
Never get stressed with Acne
Do not allow acne to stress you since it only adds to the stress that gives rise to pimples. The first rule for beautiful skin is rest and relaxation. Stressed skin ages faster and develops wrinkles earlier. Be happy for what you are and sometimes try taking your mind off pimples.
Healthy skin Rules
Being healthy is the first step towards being beautiful. If you are fighting acne you must learn to love your skin in and out. Have enough water, sleep well and eat healthy. These three things are very simple but if followed religiously, they can make a big difference to skin quality. Use products that are for acne prone skin. But avoid something that is too harsh. Always keep skin clean by washing your face with an anti-acne soap or face wash. Tone skin and keep it hydrated. If your pimple problem still persists then it is time you consulted a dermatologist.
Consult a Dermatologist
Consulting a dermatologist is the best thing to do for any kind of skin problems. Instead of spending on expensive cosmetic acne solutions, take medical help. The earlier you consult a dermatologist, the better. Taking help on the onset of acne can reduce the chances of it spreading all over. Find out a good MD and follow the treatment to a 'T'. It will surely lessen down the recurrence of pimples. Your pimple might not even return if you keep following the healthy skin rules.
Tips to live with your Acne
Acne is best treated with dermatological help. But till the time you take the journey from pimple prone skin to flawless radiant skin, read our tips to learn to live with your acne. Guard your self confidence to keep going through pimply times.
Avoid being upset about acne
Speak promptly to people who embarrass you
Avoid judging people on their skin value. People with good skin may have other problems that
you might never experience in your whole life.
Read a book or listen to music if you are feeling blue
Remove make-up before going to bed
Wash your glasses often, if you wear any.
Change your pillow cover every alternate day
Avoid picking and popping pimples
Use make-up to cover pimples and blemishes. Actors, celebrities, and many others use this
technique
Avoid exchanging cosmetics, towels and napkins
Follow your dermatologist's advice
Stay away from stress
Avoid comparing yourself to others
Avoid self-medication
Take rude remarks in your stride. Even the most gorgeous looking people receive the rudest comments
Be patient
Live acne free
Acne can affect your confidence and potential of achievement. If you are suffering with acne, fight it to overcome it. Always take help from a doctor. Medical help is the best if you are seeking relief from acne. Every acne problem is different and the same solutions do not apply to all. This makes medical support very important. Self-medication can be dangerous. A doctor identifies your skin type, lifestyle and the kind of acne and prescribes treatment accordingly.
While you are on your way to live acne free, the biggest support you need is from yourself. Do not hide your acne behind strands of hair. Feel proud to be who you are. Do not miss out on life because your cheeks have bumps that are blocking your self-esteem. Show the world that a bunch of acne cannot stop you from living the life you want.
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Make-up with a right face foundation
Choosing the right shade is very important while buying your foundation. Read on to find out if you are using the right foundation or not.
Are you heading to a party in the evening but looking dull and tired already? Try using a face foundation to perk up your face and look radiant. A foundation can help cover those puffy eyes, sullen cheeks and gives flawless look to the skin. But how do you choose the perfect foundation? It is extremely essential to understand your skin type to find out which type of foundation will suit your skin the best. Read on to know how to select a facial foundation that can keep looking you beautiful for a longer time.
Types of the foundation
The market is cluttered with many types and brands of foundations. Foundations are available in the forms of liquids, creams, powders, gels, cakes and concealer sticks.
Foundations in the form of creams are packed mostly in the jars. They contain high amount of oil. Liquids are usually light shades foundations and are available in bottles. Foundation in gel form comes in the squeeze tube. Cakes and sticks are considered heavy for everyday use but are best to be used on special occasions as they hide dark spots and blemishes effectively.
You may choose your foundation according to your need. Moisture rich foundation is good for dry skin which helps to retain hydration and keeps irritation at bay. Those with oily skin should prefer foundation with oil control effect. Light reflecting foundations are good to bring back that gloss on dry and dull face. There are also foundations available for acne-prone skin. So if you wan to hide those little pimples on a special date, don't hesitate to use a foundation.
Using a wrong foundation may form dry flakes on your skin making your face dull. Some foundations tend to form cracks if you sweat, avoid them. Try brands like L'oreal, Neutrogena mineral foundation, Oriflame, MAC or Body Shop. The right foundation is the key to get that drop dead gorgeous look.
Foundation for your skin type
To understand which type of the foundation is suitable for you, first, you need to understand your skin type. Oil based foundations do wonders on dry skin as they add that additional moisture to the skin. On the other hand water based foundations are recommended for oily skin.
If you are blessed with normal skin type then you are free to use any kind of foundation. Foundations in the cream and liquid forms are recommended for normal skin. Unlike oily skin normal skin can easily carry cream and liquid foundations.
The colour of your skin
The shade of your foundation should blend with the colour of your natural skin. Pick up the shade that will match perfectly with your complexion. Selecting darker shade of the foundation for fair skin tone can mar your look. Whereas a lighter shade for dark skin can look very bad. Remember foundation is used to covers flaws and enhance your natural skin tone.
Choosing the right foundation shade
The easy way to test the colour of your foundation is by applying it near your jaw line. The other area where you can test the shade of your foundation is the inside of your wrist or on your cheek.
Do not make the mistake of testing the shade of the foundation on the back of your hand. The back of the hand is usually much darker than the face. You may end up picking the wrong shade if you use this method of testing.
Always check the colour of your foundation in the sunlight. The natural light will show you the right shade of the foundation. It will help you to pick up the perfect shade that will match with your skin tone.
Cover blemishes, scars and pores
The use of the right foundation helps balance the moisture level of the skin. Foundations work as oil blotters. They absorb the excessive amount of oil on the face and make it look clean.
Application of the foundation covers pores making skin look even and smooth. Choosing the right shade of foundation will help you to hide those blemishes and dark circles under the eyes effectively. Foundation improvises your skin tone, texture and colour.
Once you have bought the right foundation you are just a few minutes away to get creamy complexion that will get you showered with compliments. Apply tiny dots of the foundation on your forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. Blend it quickly but evenly with your fingertips or with a wet sponge. Blot the face with a dry tissue. Proceed with your make-up to to be the star of the evening at the party you are off to.
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Learn to love your natural skin
Your skin mirrors your health. Be it fair or tanned, learn to love your natural skin and be on your way to a flawless complexion.
All parts of our body including our skin are precious gifts of nature. The skin that we live in is the largest organ of the human body. We all admire, revere and desire beautiful, flawless skin. Having bad skin can be a physical as well as an emotional threat. But the good news is that nature has provided us with many things to combat skin problems and heal them.
Many people have problems with their skin colour. The dusky ones want to be fair; the fair ones want to look tanned. Finally, no one loves what they have. The saying rightly goes, 'the grass is always greener on the other side'.
The desire for a different skin tone rather than healthy skin usually ends in making huge investments in having a whiter or tanned skin. But such skin obtained with cosmetics and bleaching is temporary. Bleaching face using chemical products not only harms skin but also makes it rough. Tanners can be bad for skin. Similarly getting a plastic surgery done for your skin requires lots of money. Remember your skin belongs to you whether dark or fair. It makes you different from the rest. So put your money to good use and read on so that you learn to love your natural skin.
Beautiful skin is healthy skin
Cosmetics cannot change your skin they can only hide flaws and highlight areas that you want. But beautiful skin is skin without infections, scars and other disorders. All you have to do to love your skin is keep it healthy. Look after it and love it, be it any tone.
Protect your skin naturally, from the effects of pollution, chemicals and ageing to keep it looking radiant. Here are a few natural remedies that your skin will love. Begin by protecting your skin with these blessing of nature.
Make it a habit to add neem leaves in your bathing water everyday. Neem will help keep away any kind of skin problem. Add neem leaves in boiling water, wait till the water becomes slightly green and mix this water with cold water. You can also use Neem soap if it is difficult to find neem leaves.
Use milk powder to remove tanning of your hands legs and neck. If you want a glowing skin you can use curd on your face, avoid using it if your skin is oily. You can also use honey mixed with few lemon drops which acts as a natural bleach for your face. You should be very careful while applying this mixture, as it acts as bleach. Avoid its contact with hair, do not use this mixture if your skin very sensitive.
Use "Besan" or gram peas flour mixed with a pinch of turmeric and milk to take bath. It can be a good replacement for soap. It will help you manage problems of dry skin in winter.
Experience a royal bath. Use "Uttan" which is a traditional mixture of sandalwood powder, turmeric powder, almond powder and rose water. It was used by Indian princesses, queens and maharanis. The ingredients can be mixed with milk which helps you keep your skin beautiful. It is also easily available in market. Ensure you get a genuine mix.
Use a pinch of turmeric powder to rinse your face once or twice a week, this will help your to keep your face clear.
Massage your face with almond and sandal wood powder mixed with milk twice a week.
Rub a tomato slice on your face sometimes to cleanse your face.
Rub papaya peels on your face and leave it for 10-15 minutes, it will work for you as a face mask.
Keep cucumber slices on your eyes, it will help you reduce dark circles.
Wash your face whenever you come back from outside. In a day wash your face at least thrice or twice.
Diet for healthy skin
Do you know that your face speaks for you? When you are happy, sad, angry, serious, tired your face says it all. Similarly your face can also tell people the kind of food you eat. So be conscious regarding your diet if you want a healthier skin. Here are some of the easiest things that you can try.
Drink lots of water every day, this will help to drain out all the toxics from your body. You should have at least 8 to 10 glasses of water each day.
Make leafy vegetables and salads a part of your every day meal.
Drink lots of fruit juices and eat fruits. If you do not like to eat fruits you can make fruit salads and eat them along with ice-cream.
Lessen the proportion of oil and increase the proportion of water to cook your food.
Eat red fruits like plum, apple, cherries, strawberries etc to get red cheeks. You can also eat a tomato.
Avoid eating lots of sweets.
Drink a glass of milk every day with a pinch of turmeric powder in it.
Safe natural products for your body
Treat your body and face equally. Do not ignore your body just because you think no one is noticing it. Hydrate your skin and nourish it with the goodness of natural ingredients and delay the onset of wrinkles. Check out these simple but great ingredients that you will find right in your kitchen.
Use almond oil, olive oil, coconut oil for massaging your body especially your hands and legs during winter.
Multani-mitti (Indian fuller's earth) can be used for excessive oily skin. Avoid its repetitive use since it dries skin. You must use it only once in a week. Note that it is not suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
You can use Jojoba oil for a wrinkles and lines free skin. You can even get rid of dandruff by massaging it on your scalp.
Your skin reflects your health. Protect your skin and keep it away from skin damaging beauty products. Give your skin a natural treat and be a natural beauty. Wear a lovely smile and you are set to turn heads.
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How to choose a lipstick shade?
Choosing the right shade of lipstick is not as simple as it seems. Know more about choosing a lipstick colour that is made just for you.
The lipstick shade that you pick should compliment yours skin tone and your lip colour. All your efforts of applying lipstick perfectly are of no use if the shade of your lipstick is mistaken. The right shade makes a lot of difference in the appearance and overall personality. You may be a shade away to get luscious lips.
How to test a lipstick shade?
Never use a test lipstick on your lips, doing this can be quite unhygienic. Many of us have a habit of testing lipstick shade on the back of our hand. Testing a lipstick shade on the back of the hand can deceive you and you might end up buying a shade that is not made for you. The best way to test your lipstick colour is testing it on your fingertips.
Test your lipstick shade in the bright light or a natural sunlight so that you will not be misguided by one shade for another. Once testing part is over you heads closer towards getting creamier lips.
Lipstick shade for fair skin
Pick up the lighter shades of pink and orange if you have combination of fair skin and light hair. You can also go for colours like peach and beige. If you have fair skin and dark hair then you should pick up shades of deep pink and caramel to complement the combination. Any lipstick shade will go with medium skin and hair tone but it is better to go for lighter shades to show up the richness of the skin.
Lipstick shade for dark skin
Plum or wine lipstick complements the dark skin perfectly. If you are blessed with an olive skin tone then you can experiment with reds and light browns. If you have dark skin tone then go for matte finish than frosted ones. Keep away from bright reds and pinks and colour your lips with medium and dull shades. Shades of blackberry, caramels and purples are meant for the dusky skin tone.
Tips for applying lipstick
Lipstick is an essential part of a woman's make-up kit. The right shade of lipstick will enhance the beauty of any face in a few minutes. If you fancy luscious lips then you can try out these tricks to have fuller lips that are absolutely kissable.
Use lighter shades during daytime
Go for darker shades if you are going to attend an evening party
Shape your lips with a lip liner that is close to your lipstick shade
Create a shade by blending more than one shades of lipsticks
Apply foundation as a base and then apply lipstick
Avoid lip liners and pencils, to make lips appear soft and natural
The lipstick colour that is meant for you will look great even if you do not wear any other make-up. A shade that looks great under in the tube or stick will not necessarily look great on your lips. Once you have the right lipstick shade, apply it on your lips. Get ready to mesmerise everyone around you. While many may admire your pout, some may bite their lips with envy.
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How to prevent pimples
Pimples can be prevented with natural ingredients and timely medical intervention. Learn to follow a regular skin care regime to keep your skin pimple free.
A single pimple is more than enough to ruin the happiness of any special occasion. The most annoying thing is to see a bump on your nose in the morning when you have to go out for a party in the evening. Such heart breaking incidents can be avoided by following some important skin care tips. All you need are some natural ingredients and lots of care.
Skin is the largest and an important organ. While you may be protecting other organs like eyes, heart, lung, ears etc. ignoring skin care can mean inviting pimples and other harmful infections. As pollution is increasing day by day, skin problems are also on the rise. This makes skin care a must for preventing pimples. Here are some simple tips to prevent pimples and ways to a healthier skin.
Tips for preventing pimples
All you have to do is pick up the right stuff for your skin care regime. However tempting it may seem avoid popping or squeezing a zit. Here is a list of things that you can include in your daily routine. It will definitely help you to stay away from other skin problems too. Remember, staying away from pimples is better than curing them.
Pound and place mint leaves all over your face for 10-15 minutes. Remove all the leaves and wash your face with cold water. Do not rub leaves on skin as it may cause skin irritation if you already have pimples.
Use multani-mitti (Indian fuller's earth) as a mask if you have very oily skin. Add rose water to fuller's earth. This mask will help absorb oil and prevent pimples. Do not over use this mask. You can use it once a week. Avoid using this mask if your skin is very sensitive and dry.
Boils Neem leaves in water. Add some plain water for taking bath to this concentrated mix. It is an Ayurvedic remedy for staying away from most of the skin problems.
Press ice over the swollen pimple. If you have popped a pimple, do not forget to press ice and splash some astringent.
Consult a skin expert before using any product on your skin. If possible always use Ayurvedic and herbal products. They do not have side effects.
Wash your face with cold water at least twice or thrice a day and whenever you come back for outside.
Rub a pinch of turmeric powder while washing your face at least once or twice a week.
Apply a mixture of tomato juice and honey. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and then wash your face. This will help to prevent pimples and also clear previous pimple marks. Do not use this mixture for sensitive skin
Prepare a mixture of apple pulp and honey. Apply this mixture on face and let it stay for 15-20 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water. It is good for getting rid of pimples.
Apply mixture of honey and lemon juice drops to have a shiny and clear skin
If your skin is allergic and sensitive consult an expert before applying any product or even natural ingredient on your face.
Diet for avoiding pimples
You can even avoid pimples by consuming a balanced diet. Your diet plays an important role for getting a healthier skin.
Drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water. This will help to detoxify your body and avoiding pimples
Avoid consuming oily, spicy and junk food as much as you can
Make fruits and vegetables an integral part of your diet. You can drink fruit juices. If you want to have glowing and red cheeks you can eat red fruits like apples, cherries and tomatoes.
Have a glass of milk with a pinch of turmeric powder at least once a day
The best way to prevent pimples is learning to love your natural skin. Avoid using cosmetics to avoid chemicals that harm your skin. Another key to have a healthier skin is to staying healthy. Proper skin care products, a balanced diet and regular exercise are ingredients of a good recipe for reducing ageing process and thus avoiding wrinkles. It also helps to prevent pimples and other skin problems.
Use natural ingredients early to stay away from laser treatments later in life. It will not only help prevent pimples but also make your skin glow. Make a few changes in lifestyle to get a pimple-free skin and wake up to a beautiful you.
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Make - up tips
Learn proper ways to apply Mascara, lipstick, eyeliner, and foundation. Reveal useful make-up tips right here, right now.
Today a woman has to look gorgeous throughout the day. No matter whether she is attending her nine to five job or college lectures, she has to look beautiful. A woman chooses her beauty products with care. It will not be a hyperbole to say that a woman can not live without cosmetics. Her make-up kit consists of lipsticks, nail polishes, mascaras, eye liners, creams and foundation. Here are some make-up tips that will enhance your beauty. Do not blame us, if people start showering you with compliments.
How to apply Mascara - tips
Mascara is essential beauty gear to obtain dramatic eye lashes whenever you want. It is one of the make-up must haves. You can add charm in your looks in minutes by applying mascara. Keep in mind the following tips while applying mascara.
Apply your mascara after finishing your eye make-up. Do not apply mascara before applying eyeliner and eye shadow.
Do not close your eyes until mascara dries. Keep tissue papers handy to remove excessive mascara from your eye lashes.
Make use of lash curler before applying mascara to get elegant eye lashes. Apply your mascara immediately after curling your eye lashes.
Do not forget to use eye make-up remover before going to bed. With a cotton ball remove all your eye make-up at the end of the day.
How to apply lipstick - tips
Coloured and creamy lips will definitely attract admiring glances. Make sure that your make-up kit has a lipstick, a lip gloss, and a lip liner. Keep in mind the following tips while applying lipstick.
Store your lipsticks in a refrigerator. Room temperature might not prove as good for your lipstick as low temperature.
Do not use lip liner that is too light or too dark as compared to your lip colour. Make sure that a colour of your lip liner matches with a colour of your lipstick.
Lip liner should not be obvious. While using lip liner, use lip liner on entire lip instead of using it only on boarders of lips.
Women in their 40s should go for lighter shades. Do not use bright shades like red, orange or pink.
How to apply eyeliner - tips
What kind of eye make-up do you prefer? Do you like sensual smoky eyes or a gothic look? Use eyeliner in a right way and get ready to be on the crush list of many. Keep in mind the following tips while applying eyeliner.
Use pencil eyeliners above top lashes and under lower lashes. Pencil eyeliners last long as compared to eye kohl.
Go for sensual eyeliner colours rather than regular black eyeliner. Blue shade is completely in fashion. Go for it.
Thin line of eyeliner looks prettier than thick one. Apply eyeliner close to a base of eyelashes.
While applying liquid eyeliner, rest your hand on a table top. This will give you balance, thus will not spoil your liner.
How to apply foundation - tips
Using foundation is enough to get creamy complexion. You can apply either liquid foundation or powder foundation before applying blush. Keep in mind the following tips while applying foundation.
Choose a foundation shade that will be one shade lighter than the colour of your natural skin.
Make use of make-up brush while applying foundation in form of powder. If you are using liquid foundation, a wet sponge or fingertips will give better look.
Add a few drops of water before applying your liquid foundation. It will ensure equal application all over face.
Always apply moisturiser before getting started with make-up. Apply loose powder to prevent foundation from becoming sticky.
Looking beautiful is every woman's hidden desire. Looking beautiful is easy with these handy make-up tips. Make sure that your make-up kit has all make-up must haves. Wear your make-up and feel confident. Right make-up will add charm in your personality. Someone has said that, 'it is beauty that captures your attention; personality which captures your heart.
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Skin care through natural ingredients
Do you know that most of the beauty secrets are hidden in your kitchen cabinet? Using these natural ingredients will save a lot of money spent on other beauty products. Read on to know more about the natural skin care remedies.
Most of the women spend quite a lot of money on cosmetics and skin care products. However, they fail to understand that all the beauty secrets are primarily found in their kitchen itself. Such natural skin care ingredients are not only easily available but also much cheaper than other beauty and cosmetic products. If you want to make an optimum utilisation of such natural ingredients lying in your kitchen cabinet, read on.
Natural skin care ingredients and products
Have a quick look at the below mentioned items which will help in your natural skin care regime.
Turmeric powder
Take a little turmeric powder on your palm and add few drops of milk. Rub this mixture at-least once in a week on your facial skin. This habit is good for getting clear skin. If you drink a glass of milk daily, add a pinch of turmeric powder in it. Such practise will help to get a natural glow on face and a healthy skin.
Cucumber slices
Keep cucumber slices on your eyes regularly to get rid of dark circles. Placing cucumber on eyes will also sooth them and make them feel fresh. It will help to reduce itchiness and dryness of eyes.
Cucumber and lemon juice
Prepare a solution of cucumber and lemon juice. Rubbing this solution on the skin will help to reduce dark spots and marks.
Honey and lemon juice
Add few drops of lemon juice to honey. Apply this mixture on your facial skin. This pack will act as natural skin bleach.
Curd
Applying curd on face helps to get soft and smooth skin. It also acts a good moisturizer and good for dry skin. If curd is mixed with henna powder and applied to hair, it acts as a good hair conditioner.
Gram flour (Besan)
Mix gram peas flour with milk and a pinch of turmeric powder. Apply this paste on your face. Let it stay till it dries and then wash your face with water. This remedy will help you if your skin is very oily. This mixture helps to get oil free and smooth skin. This mixture can also be used as substitute for soap to be applied while taking bath.
Neem leaves
Using neem leaves is the best remedy for skin problems. Put some neem leaves in the water which you take bath with regularly. This remedy helps to deal with the problems like skin infection, pimples etc;
Tomato juice
Tomato juice is a good remedy for skin cleansing. Apply it at-least once in a month or three weeks for best results. If you want to get glowing skin, mix tomato juice with curd or honey and apply it on your face. Leave this pack on your face for 10 to 15 minutes and wash your face with water. Tomato juice remedies help to deal with oily skin and blackheads
Papaya slices
Papaya slices or papaya pulp if rubbed or applied on the facial skin act as a good face pack. It helps to deal with the symptoms of ageing.
Almond oil
Almond oil massaged on skin helps to reduces dryness. It helps to bring natural lustre on the skin. Almond oil can be used for skin care during winters when excessive dryness in skin can be observed.
Jojoba oil
Few drops of jojoba oil massaged regularly on facial skin can work as a good moisturiser and helps to deal with acne and wrinkles. It can be used efficiently as makeup remover or hair conditioner.
Milk
Milk is good for health as well as can be used for removing skin tanning. Milk is one of the good skin cleansers and helps to deal with skin irritation.
Using such natural ingredients in your skin care regime will definitely give you better results. At the same time it will save your money spent on other cosmetic and chemical based beauty products. You do not have to worry at all about the costly face packs as your can create many at your home with these ingredients. If your skin is sensitive or allergic to the above mentioned ingredients avoid using them.
Store these ingredients at your easy accesses for the perfect and quick skin care. Such unique skin care regime will fulfil your desire of getting flawless and beautiful skin. Maintaining a good and healthy skin for longer time will be possible with natural skin care as compared to other products. With such natural way for skin care you will learn to love and protect your natural skin. Good luck for exploring the natural beauty of your skin!
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Simple skin care remedies
If you really love your skin, use only natural and herbal products on it. You also need to follow a balanced diet to get beautiful skin. Read on to know some simple skin care remedies.
Loads of cosmetics and skin care products are available in the market. We spend lot of money on these cosmetics and skin care products. However, we tend to forget some basic things which can create miracles to our skin. There are some natural remedies which can help to maintain beautiful skin without spending much on cosmetics.
As skin is the largest and sensitive organ of our body, proper skin care regime is a must. If you follow a proper diet and use natural products you can save a lot on other beauty treatments. Here’s a guide on how you can use simple skin care remedies to obtain a beautiful and flawless skin.
Skin care products
Have a quick look at how you can use easily accessible and natural products for your skin care regime. These skin care regime will not only help you to deal with infections, scars and other disorders but also help you love your skin.
Rub a slice of papaya on your face skin and let it stay for 10-15 minutes. Wash your face with cold water. This mask is good for dealing with an oily skin if it is used at-least once in two weeks. Try to avoid this practice if your skin is sensitive.
Get a beautiful glow on your face by massaging your face skin with the mixture of almond, sandalwood and milk.
Mix water boiled with neem leaves in cold water and take bath with such water regularly. This practice will help you to deal with all kinds of skin problems and infections.
Use milk powder to deal with a tanned skin. You just have to mix milk powder with water and rub it on your skin. You can also use milk instead of using milk powder for de-tanning your skin.
Massage your skin with curd if you want to get rid of very dry skin. Curd will also act as natural skin bleach for your skin. You can also use a mixture of honey and few drops of lemon juice as skin bleach. Avoid using curd or mixture of honey and lemon juice drops if you are having a very sensitive skin.
Make use of almond oil, olive oil or coconut oil to massage your face, hands and legs before taking bath during winters. It will help you to deal with dry skin during winters and get a natural glow on your face.
Place mint leaves all over your face and let it stay for 10-15 minutes. This practice will help you to deal with pimples.
Cleanse your skin by rubbing tomato slices on your face.
Keep your face fresh by washing it three to four times a day without using soap or face-wash solution.
Maintain a clear skin by rubbing your face with a pinch of turmeric powder. You should practice this remedy at least once a week.
Skin care by eating healthy
You do not have to go on a strict diet for obtaining healthy and beautiful skin. You just need to make small changes in your eating habits. Read on to find how you can imbibe healthy eating habits to get a gorgeous skin.
Keep a habit of drinking at-least 1.5 liters of water a day. Drinking lots of water detoxifies body. It not only helps to get a beautiful skin but also lose weight. Water therapy is illustrious these days to treat various health disorders.
Try to reduce the proportion of oil while cooking your regular meals. Instead, try cooking food with more of water than oil.
Eat fruits daily and try to eat raw tomatoes to get red cheeks. If you are took keen to have red cheeks try to eat red fruits and vegetables regularly.
Eats lots of fruit or vegetable salads if you do not like to eat fruit as a whole or a cooked vegetable.
Put a pinch of turmeric powder in each glass of milk you drink to deal with some skin disorders.
Have a balanced diet always to get a beautiful skin.
Nature has gifted us so many products which are much better than chemical based beauty products. Learn to make use of natural and herbal products instead of damaging your skin. Cosmetics can only give temporary good look. But natural remedies help to maintain good and healthy skin forever. Natural beauty of your skin is a real beauty indeed.
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Home remedies for Glowing Skin
Getting glowing skin is very easy with the help of home remedies. Some home remedies can really work wonders for getting glowing skin. These remedies are simple indeed and used since ages to get beautiful and glowing skin. Such remedies are not only effective but also help to save money spent on cosmetics, beauty products and beauty treatments. Read on to know more about the home remedies for glowing skin.
Have a quick look at some of the home remedies which can be used for getting glowing and flawless skin.
Simple Home Remedies for Glowing Skin
Here are some simple home remedies which can be tried using easily accessible and other ingredients available in your kitchen cabinet. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients or products mentioned below, avoid using them.
Ice and Moisturiser
If you want to get a glowing skin quickly, try using ice and moisturizer. Put few drops of moisturizer or malai on a cube of ice. Massage your face with this cube for 2-5 minutes. Practicing this remedy will help you to get glowing skin and fresh look instantly. You can try this remedy during winters when your skin becomes very dry and scaly. This remedy can also be used when you are feeling tired and dull to get quickly refreshed.
Ripe Papaya Paste
If you have some ripe papaya at home, use it as a beauty and skin care remedy. Take this ripe papaya and churn it into a thick paste. Apply this thick paste on your skin and massage slowly for few seconds. Use clean and cold water to wash your face after 10 -15 minutes. Wipe your face with dry cloth or towel after washing your face. This remedy is good for treating oily skin. Try this remedy once in every two weeks to get a refreshing look and glowing skin.
Curd
If you are worried about your dry skin, use curd. You can massage your skin with curd at least once in fifteen days. It will help you to get rid of dry skin as well as get glowing skin with an ease.
Besan or Gram Flour
A mixture of besan or gram flour, milk and turmeric powder is used by many people as a natural face pack. It helps to deal with oily skin and get a flawless and beautiful glow on your skin. Many people use this mixture while bathing their babies also. However, if you want to use this mixture for your baby, you should consult your doctor.
Mixture of Honey and Lemon juice
Mix honey with some lemon juice and make a paste out of it. Apply this paste evenly on your facial skin. You can also use this paste on your hands, legs, neck and back. Let this pack stay on your skin for at least 5-10 minutes before you wash your face. This remedy will help you to get soft and glowing skin in minutes. It also acts as a substitute for skin bleach and helps to deal with oily skin. You can use this remedy during summers when skin tends to become oily quite often.
Cucumber Juice
You can extract some cucumber juice for your skin care regime. Take this juice and rub it on your face for some time. Wait for few minutes and wash your face with cold water after that. It is a good skin care remedy for treating spots and marks on skin and getting clear and glowing skin. It also proves effective to treat dark circles and dull skin.
Turmeric and Sandalwood Paste
Turmeric and sandalwood paste is one of the oldest and traditional skin care remedies used for getting beautiful and glowing skin. You can make a natural face-pack using turmeric powder, sandalwood powder and milk. Mix these three ingredients properly and your instant face-pack is ready. This face-pack can also be used for improving the complexion of your skin.
Neem, Mint and Tulsi Leaves
Wash your face regularly with neem and tulsi water to deal with skin problems. You can also use mint leaves to treat skin problems like acne and pimples. Neem, mint and tulsi leaves are good for treating most of skin problems and help to get beautiful and glowing skin.
Home remedies for glowing skin, including herbal and ayurvedic remedies are used in India since ages. These home remedies were the beauty secrets of most of the Indian Princesses, Queens, Rajkumaris and Maharanis. However, you also need to take proper care of your diet and consume sufficient amount of water along with home remedies. So, why depend only on cosmetics and chemical based products if we can make best use of home remedies to get glowing skin.
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Pimples - Causes and Remedies
Pimples are often a cause of embarrassment and frustration to many. Pimples spoil the looks of a pretty face and leave one in despair. However, taking proper care will help you to deal with pimples effectively. Find out how you can avoid those unwelcome pimples and get rid of them.
There are a number of factors which are responsible for the break out of pimples. There could be one single reason or a combination of many. Pimples are the result of blockages in skin pores. Some people never seem to get pimples while others seem to regularly find them on their face.
Pimples affect not only adolescents but some adults also. Pimples are often a cause of frustration. Having a face with pimples reduces self-confidence in a person. Having a flawless and, pimple-free face will help you get back that confidence. When you look good you feel good! Have a quick look at the causes of pimples and remedies for coping with them.
Constipation
Constipation is one of the main reasons which lead to the formation of pimples. If you have it, treat it immediately. To cure constipation drink plenty of water and keep your body well hydrated. Do not gulp down your food hurriedly, sufficient chewing is important. Eat a diet rich in fiber comprising of foods like oats, muesli, green vegetables etc. Guava which is a very rich source of dietary fiber must be eaten with the seeds. It serves as an excellent laxative made by nature and is known to help in relieving constipation.
Stress
Worrying too much and excessive stress is also a cause for the formation of pimples. Get plenty of sleep and do not overwork yourself. Relax and always remember that health is more important than wealth .Never let your work take a toll on your health. Take time out to relax.
There are many stress reduction techniques. Practice meditation to beat the daily stress. Listen to some soothing and relaxing music. Try to reduce intake of caffeine in your diet as this can help in reducing stress levels. Humour also helps to reduce stress levels. Watch some light hearted comedy programmes on television which will make you laugh. Spend time with your family and children. If your children are small play some games with them as this will make them happy and also help you to relieve your tension and stress.
Faulty Eating Habits
Your face is a mirror of your food intake. If you eat healthy it reflects on your skin. Vice-versa, if your eating habits are improper and faulty, it shows on your face. What goes in reflects outside on your face, hence it is important to eat healthy. To reduce pimples on your face, avoid eating too many sweets, oily, spicy or fried food. Try and reduce intake of pastries, burgers, cookies, chocolates and other junk foods.
If you are craving to eat a burger, try to eat a grilled burger instead of a fried one. Try to use low-fat cheese for toppings on pizzas. For sandwiches, you can put butter only one side of the bread instead of both sides. The next time you are thirsty and want to reach out for that can of cold drink, substitute it with a glass of fresh fruit or vegetable juice instead.
Lack of Exercise
Exercise also plays an important role in good healthy skin. Lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle may also cause eruption of pimples. Exercise daily until you sweat. Sweat helps to open up the pores and remove toxins from the body.
Dirty Pillow Covers
Even dirty pillow covers can cause pimples. Every night when you sleep, your face comes into contact with your pillow which causes all the oil and dirt from your face to touch the pillow. Constant exposure to the same pillow can also lead to outbreak of pimples. Therefore, changing your pillow covers often is very important to avoid pimples.
Improper Cleaning Habits
Skin must be kept as dirt-free as possible .Devote time to taking care of your skin and keeping it clean always !Wash your face at least 2-3 times a day. Use a facewash and moisturizer suitable to your skin type. Avoid going out in the scorching heat and if you must go out then wear a sunscreen before stepping out. Avoid using too much make-up. Do not go to bed with make-up as this is very bad for the skin. Always remove the make up before going to sleep.
Follow a healthy lifestyle and make the pimples stop following you! And whatever happens, do not constantly touch the pimples. Never pop them as doing this may leave permanent marks on your face.
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Tips for Dry Skin
Do have dry skin? Read these useful tips for dry skin. Dry skin can often aggravate in winter leading to itchy and flaky skin. Facial dryness can be a bothersome affair. These effective dry skin care tips will help you understand how you can keep your skin moist and prevent your skin from drying.
Very often people with dry skin experience cracking and peeling of skin especially in winter. People with dry skin always need to keep their skin moisturized. People who have dry skin should select facial products and cleansers that are especially made for dry skin to ensure that their skin receives appropriate amount of moisture.
In the winter, the skin becomes drier due to low temperature and low humidity which deplete the skin of natural lipid layer. It is the natural lipid layer of the skin which helps to keep the skin from drying out.
These are Some Effective Tips for Dry Skin
1) Avoid Very Hot Water Baths or Showers
Although, hot water baths can be wonderful in winter the fact is that extremely hot water can actually cause your skin to lose moisture. Use lukewarm water instead of hot water. However, if you must have that hot water bath in the freezing weather, restrict yourself to a few minutes rather than half an hour. Once, you are done with the bath immediately apply a moisturizer. According to experts, moisturizers must be applied within three minutes of getting out of the shower.
2) Avoid Using Soaps Which Dry
Do not use regular soap to wash your face. Use a soap which will retain the moisture of the skin and not strip the skin of its natural oils.
3) Moisturize Properly
Dry skin is usually sensitive and requires thorough care. For moisturizing avoid using commercial creams and lotions which contain mineral oils and other petroleum products. The best thing would be to apply coconut oil all over the body after showering. Coconut oil naturally contains ingredients which are nourishing for the skin. Use natural creams and lotions.
4) Diet for Dry Skin
Increase intake of good oils in your diet. Dry skin is more prone to skin diseases like eczema and other uncomfortable skin conditions. Try to include more of essential oils in your diet like coconut oil, cod liver oil and Omega-3 fish oil pills. Studies conducted have shown that people with dry skin who consumed Omega-3 fish oil pills had a remarkable improvement in their skin condition, hair and nails.
5) Use a Cream at Night
People often do not apply a cream at night just as they apply a day cream. The importance of a night cream is overlooked or is not known. Applying a cream at night is equally important. Using a night cream rich in natural moisturizing oils helps your skin to stay hydrated through the night. At night during sleep the body undergoes a natural repair process. Applying a night cream provides extra nutrients for the skin which will aid the body during the natural repair process.
6) For Dry Lips
Constantly keep moisturizing lips with a simple lip balm which effectively serves the purpose. Lips are a part of the body which becomes dry more quickly than rest of the body. Licking your lips is not going to help. In fact, licking your lips will make it drier. Continually applying lip balm even after the cracks have healed helps to keep the lips soft and supple.
7) Avoid Tap Water for the Face and Apply Sunscreen
Avoid tap water for face. Tap water contains a lot of undesirable harsh chemicals like chlorine which are drying for the face. Instead use cold mineral water and an alcohol free toner to cleanse your face. Always step out into the sun only wearing a sunscreen. Exposure to sun rays increases the risk of developing dry skin.
Dry skin can be quite an annoyance as it can cause itching and flaky skin. These effective dry skin care tips will help to bring about a change in dry skin. It is essential to follow these tips diligently. One should not be careless with skin as skin is a very sensitive part of the body
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How to Cope with Oily Skin
Oily skin is associated with many skin problems. However, this can be easily treated at home. If you want to get rid of them or prevent them read on and learn easy ways to do so.
It is very easy to identify an oily skin, as it is shiny, thick and dull coloured. Normally oily skin is associated with problems like pimples, blemishes, coarse pores and other embarrassing stains. Although oily skin is coupled with teenage, it can occur in any age. It is true that teenagers have to go through all this more than others. This is usually due to the hormonal changes that they undergo during this age.
Generally speaking, skin tends to get drier as the person advances through age. It is also observed that when hormonal changes occur during pregnancy or menopause, the skin balance gets upset and activates the oil producing glands present in the skin.
Causes of Oily Skin
Inheritance
Eating habits
Change in hormones during teenage, pregnancy and menopause
Usage of make up and beauty products
Taking birth control pills
Pregnancy
Dampness in environment
Summer
Although these are some of the common causes for oily skin, there can be other causes also. However, no matter what the cause is, if the oily skin is taken care of properly and systematically it can get a flawless appearance. The greatest advantage of having oily skin is that your skin will show signs of aging much later than dry skin.
Tips to Take Care of Oily Skin
Oily skin needs proper and regular cleansing with warm water and soap. This helps the oil to wash off and prevent it from clogging. It is good to use natural and home made products for cleansing or at least avoid using chemical based products. It is good to use oil based cleansers as it helps dissolve sebum effectively. After the cleansing it is advisable that you use an oil-free moisturizer to retain a shine-free complexion.
Experts are of the opinion that people with oily skin should keep their skin clean. But this does not mean that you have to clean your face many times a day. 2-3 times a day of cleaning is more than sufficient. It is important that you massage your face with your fingertips properly when you apply the cleanser.
Always choose the cosmetics that are specially made for oily skin. Use an antiseptic day cream before applying make up. If you wish, you can use light antiseptic night cream occasionally and apply clarifying masks one or two times a week.
Homemade Natural Skincare for Oily Skin
Mix half teaspoonful of lemon juice and same quantity of cucumber juice and apply to your face and gently massage. This you can do half an hour before taking bath. If the skin is extremely oily, you can add few drops of eau de cologne to it. This helps in keeping your skin oil-free the whole day and also prevents eruption of acne.
If you want your make up to be applied thoroughly and evenly, you can apply cucumber juice on your face, let it dry and then apply your makeup. Equal parts of lemon juice and water mixed together and applied on face twice daily also helps. You have to let the mixture dry and then wash with warm water following with cool water splashes on your face.
Diet for Oily Skin
When talking about oily skin care you cannot forget considering the diet. Wrong eating habits are also one of the causes that increase the problems of oily skin. You need to pay special attention to your diet. Your diet should be rich in protein but sugar and oil should be minimized.
Do not leave your skin dehydrated. Drink at least 2 liters of water daily. Drinking plenty of water will help you and your skin feel better as well as flush out the toxins also. Take plenty of fruits and vegetables and reduce the amount of fat. Avoid sugar, soft drinks, alcohol, chocolate and junk food.
If you follow these easy and simple tips and try to look after your oily skin, you will definitely be able to reduce the skin problems associated with it. The products are easy to find in your kitchen and not complicated to use also.
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How to Apply Lipstick
Applying lipstick enhances beauty of lips and your overall look. However, you must know how to apply lipstick perfectly. You should also be aware of how to choose and apply right lipstick which lasts longer. Read on to know more about how to apply lipstick perfectly and enhance your beauty.
Whether you apply light or heavy makeup, lipstick gives it the final touch and enhances the entire look. Lip liners give a perfect shape to the lips. With some tips on how to apply lipstick, you will be able to give a perfect finishing touch to your make up. Colouring your lips will help you complement your make up, undoubtedly. You have to take care of the colour, the shape and the manner in which it stays for the daylong. Although almost every woman applies lipstick, very few of them know exactly how to apply it in the right way.
Tips to Apply Lipstick Perfectly
Choose the right colour of your lipstick. It is better to select the colour that complements your skin tone and a little darker shade will help you do that. Choose matte finish for a day make up and satin and gloss finish for the evening make up.
Apply other make up first because lipstick is the last thing to apply. After finishing your entire make ups, you can put on the lipstick and the lip liner.
You can dab a little of petroleum jelly or any lip balm so that your lips get some moisture prior to applying lipstick.
Choose a lip liner that has a bit darker shade than the lipstick and apply through the outline of your lips.
Now you can apply the lipstick either with the help of a strong lipstick brush or with the tube itself. Make sure you coat the lips with the lipstick evenly and pay attention so that they do not ever touch outside of the lips and the edges.
Blot the lips with the tissue or blotting paper so that if there is any extra lipstick, it will get wiped away giving the lips a perfect finish.
How to Choose and Apply the Right Lipstick that Lasts
When you are choosing the colour of the lipstick, you should first decide whether you want stress on your lips more or not. There are times when eye make up is done with the intention of catching attention through the eyes. So, if you are paying more attention to highlight any other part of your face, keep the colour of the lipstick lighter.
If your lips are plump up naturally, apply the lip liner to just outline your lips. You can even leave your lips naturally by applying a little bit of gloss to the lips.
Applying liner before lipstick will not only give it a perfect look, it will also help the lipstick last longer.
When using light lipstick, choose the liner with just a bit darker shade and do not go for very dark ones.
When using a glass to drink water or any other drink, lick your lips so that your lipstick does not get wiped or discolored.
There is no single rule as to how you should apply lipstick. Just keep in mind the tips and you will be able to apply them perfectly. Make sure you choose the right colour that matches with your entire makeup and complements your styling and personality. The colours are also chosen paying attention to the time of the day and type of occasion you are going to attend. You can now have a feminine look with an added charm of your beautiful and attractive smile.
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Home Remedies for Pimples
Pimples are caused due to improper eating habits and various other reasons. However, pimple can be cured easily with the help of home remedies. Pimples can even erupt on your face due to use of chemical based beauty products. There are lots of factors which can cause pimples. Even if you do not take basic care of your face, pimples can show up on your face. Read on to know more about how to cure pimples using home remedies.
Pimples are a real point of worry for teenagers. Although it is known to most of us that pimples are skin problems in teenagers, it is actually due to various reasons. Age is not the only factor that works behind eruption of pimples. If you are having alarming number of pimple eruptions, you should immediately consult a caregiver. However, one or two pimples here and there are quite common and should not be taken very seriously. Even though if you want to have a pimple free skin, consider the tips mentioned here.
Home Remedies for Pimples
If you are having pimple eruption in controlled number try these treatments. However, if the ingredients mentioned below do not suit your skin, you should avoid using these remedies.
Take one cucumber and make it a paste in the grinder. Apply this paste on your face and after one and half hour wash your face.
Apply a dab of any toothpaste on your pimple. It will help it dry in almost a day.
Use lavender oil and apply on the pimple everyday. This is considered one of the best home remedies for pimples.
Use lemon juice in your daily cleansing facemask. This will work wonders and even stop eruption of pimples after regular use.
Avoid touching your face especially pimples with your hands. This is the best way to stop them from spreading.
Tea tree oil is considered as doing wonders in skin care. Mix few drops of tea tree oil with olive oil and rub on the pimples. Its natural antiseptic quality will help you get rid of the pimples faster.
Dab a small amount of honey on the pimple after your ‘before bed’ cleansing of face and leave it there overnight.
You can also apply pure honey on your face and wait for fifteen minutes and then wash it off. You will find a typical glow in your skin and it will have positive effect on removing pimples also.
Crush a clove of garlic and apply on the pimples. It will naturally destroy the bacteria and hence cure pimples.
Besides these remedies you must keep in mind that cleansing and diet are also very important. You must keep your face clean and oil free and for this you should use a good cleansing product that is free of chemicals and wash your face at least twice daily.
As far as diet is concerned, you must switch to vegetables and fruits and avoid junk and fried food as much as possible. Include fruits in your diet and have at least one fully nutritious meal everyday. Drink plenty of water, at least 8 - 10 glasses everyday.
Causes Behind Pimple Eruption
The best way to treat pimples is to find the right cause behind its eruption. There are various causes and one of the common ones is wrong eating habits. If you are having fried and packed food items more often and you do not pay attention to nutrition in your diet, pimples are likely to erupt often. Second thing is to take care of the cleaning part. Wash your face with water 3 - 4 times daily and with a chemical free face wash at least twice.
Following these tips will not only help you get rid of the pimples you are having now, it will assist you stop further eruption of pimples also.
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How to Get Clear Skin
Getting clear skin naturally is not so difficult. You just have to follow some simple home remedies and get clear skin with an ease. You need to make slight changes in your lifestyle for getting clear skin. Read on to find helpful beauty tips for getting clear skin naturally.
Dealing with your skin must be a big problem because of various factors that are harmful for your skin. You cannot avoid them in the present scenario and so today, many people dream of having a glowing and flawless skin. There are some tips that would help you have a clear and good skin. This should be done on daily basis, as gradually you will have a good skin.
Tips for Getting Clear Skin
Follow these simple tips to get flawless and clear skin.
Cleansing
Pay attention to cleaning your skin, which not only include use of soap and water. Scrubbing and deep cleansing is important for your skin daily. Be gentle to your skin and do not scrub with any hard material. Rather, use some face packs, which will naturally scrub your skin taking out the dead cells, and this will help you have a clear skin. Wash your face twice daily so that the dust and germs that accumulate are cleaned out.
Drink Water
Drink at least 8 - 10 glasses of water daily. This will help flush out the toxins from your body and this will ultimately give you clean and clear skin.
Sleep
Good sound sleep is very important, not only for our body, for our skin also. Lack of sleep will result in dark circles and your skin will appear dull as well.
Choose the Right Skin Care Product
Do not get into market gimmicks. Choose the right skin care product that suits your skin and stick to it. There are always new products launched in the market. Do not give all of them a try. Make sure you make use of products that are from natural ingredients. You can wear sunscreen so that you are saved from daily damage to your skin from the sunrays. This will also help you get rid of the dark circles.
Changing Bed Sheet
Changing bed sheets and pillow covers frequently also save a lot of skin damages. This is because every night we sleep with some dust or dirt left behind on our skin. If we repeatedly sleep on the same bed sheet every night, it harms our skin.
Diet
Pay attention to your diet. If your daily diet includes all nutrients and plenty of water, you will have clear skin very soon. This will be a permanent change. Try to avoid fried and junk food items to have a flawless skin.
Massage
You must give your skin, body and face both, an extra massage at least once a week for that extra boost up.
Although there are some quick fix formulas that work wonders apparently on your skin, they may have some side effects that you will have to suffer afterwards. Stay away from artificial and chemical treatments. If you have any kind of skin problem, no matter whether it is eruption of acne, pimples, blemishes or any other, the best thing is to opt for natural treatments.
Natural and herbal treatments have no side effects and they are normally good for skin. The only thing is that you should follow an expert’s advice. Do not just buy another herbal product from the market. Make certain that the product is actually made out of natural substances and only when you are assured, use it. If the problem is severe, consult a dermatologist instead of going through trial and error methods.
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Beauty Tips for Face
Are you looking for beauty tips for having flawless and glowing face? Follow these simple beauty tips to make sure that you have clean and clear face. These remedies are very simple which can be practiced using some ingredients from your kitchen cabinet and some from your beauty kit. Read on to find beauty tips for face.
When you look into the mirror, does your face look dry, oily or simply flawed? Well, you need to take care of your skin and face. In fact, the cleansing, toning and moisturizing of face is very important and needs to be done regularly. You can give yourself just 15 minutes in the morning and the same before you go to bed.
There are numerous beauty products that are available in the market today. Some of them will claim to have natural ingredients and herbs. But when you have all things available in your kitchen, why not use natural products in its natural form?
Tips to Keep your Face Flawless
Follow these beauty tips to the 'T' to have flawless, beautiful and glowing face.
Take 1 tbsp of fresh milk and dip a cotton wool in it. Now gently rub your face with it. It should be circular movements on the face and upward strokes in the neck area. Leave this just for 15 minutes and then wash your face.
Take a slice of cucumber without peeling it and rub it gently on your face using circular motion and upward strokes in the neck area. Wait for 15 minutes and wash your face.
Crush a tomato and rub it gently on your face and neck area. Just keep on for 15 minutes and wash your face.
If your skin is oily, slice apple in thin pieces and place it on your face. Wait for 15 minutes and then wash your face. This will soak the extra oil in your face.
Grate raw coconut. Squeeze coconut milk from it and apply on your face and lips. It will add a glow to your skin.
Take one cup of yogurt and add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of orange juice to it. Apply this on your face as facemask. Clean it with a wet tissue after 15 minutes. This will improve your complexion and add glow to your skin.
Apply pure castor oil on your face. This prevents wrinkles and slows down the ageing process also.
Take 2 tablespoons of fresh cream and mix it with 1 tablespoon of honey. Apply this on your face and leave it for few minutes. It works wonders and you can see the amazing difference yourself.
Wet your face. Apply 1 - 2 tablespoons of sea salt on your face and massage with fingers or wet washcloth. Do this for 1 or 2 minutes. Wash with cold water. You can do this once a week to exfoliate your skin.
When we talk about nature, we simply talk about beautiful things. The word ugly is not normally used to describe anything related to nature. Also, beauty lies in the eyes of the other person and within your heart. You can gain this inner beauty from yoga, meditation and using natural products to clean and maintain your face.
If you try the natural and proven beauty boosters, you will feel that you have gone through a spa therapy and that too without burning a hole in your pocket. Nature has huge number of hidden secrets in it. You simply have to follow the verified ones. Just clean and moisturize your skin daily and exfoliate it at least once a week to get a flawless and beautiful skin.
Although there are plenty of skin care products in the market, natural way of treating your skin will save it from side effects of these products and these products are inexpensive and uncomplicated to prepare also.
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Beauty Tips for Oily Skin
Lot of factors like stress, unhealthy food and pollution are responsible for oily skin. Oily skin requires lot of care. It is very necessary to follow proper remedies for coping with oily skin as oily skin is more prone to infection. Read on to find some beauty tips for taking care of oily skin.
Some people have oily skin and some experience it at the age of puberty when there are hormonal changes going on in the body. Causes of oily skin can also be lot of stress, environmental pollution and diet as well. However, oily skin is only due to result of increased production of oil in your skin. There are various skin care products available in the market right from synthetic to herbal products. You can choose the product that suits you well and gives you positive results.
Beauty Tips and How to Care for Oily Skin
Do not wash your face too many times. Although acne is termed to be result of dust particles on oily skin, it is not a hygienic issue. So, washing for more and more times will not help.
Use warm water whenever you wash your face or bathe.
Use a cleanser specifically for oily skin. And try to buy a gentle face wash that contains glycerin or salicylic acid to keep your pores clean.
Consult your dermatologist and take some medicine for over production of oil.
Dry your skin before you apply anything on your face. This will save you from clogging your pores.
Choose skin care products and cosmetics that are oil free. Also, make sure they are not irritating and are free from artificial fragrance.
Choose and use the moisturiser wisely. If your skin needs it, buy the one that is oil free and do not apply often.
Wear a sunscreen whenever you go out or even if you stay indoors, apply at least once in the morning after your bath. Choose the one that has SPF 15 or more and is oil free too.
Before applying make up, make use of the blotting papers and soak all extra oil from your face. This will help you apply the make up evenly and will help it stay longer too.
Home Remedies for Oily Skin
Crab an apple and apply it on your face. Leave it for 20 minutes and then wash it with lukewarm water. This will give a typical glow to your oily skin.
Take gram flour, cream, few drops of lemon juice and a pinch of turmeric powder. Make it a paste and apply it on your face. Leave it to dry partially and then scrub gently. Wash your face with warm water.
Honey is an excellent natural moisturiser. Although oily skin needs less moisturising, you can take the help of honey for that.
Juice of cucumber also helps in reducing oil production and brings a glow to the skin too.
You need to exfoliate your skin at intervals and here rice powder, corn flour and few drops of lemon juice helps do that very nicely.
Home remedies are very useful in giving good results. The best thing is that they do not have any side effects and you can give anything a try for sometime. Just keep in mind that natural remedies need some time to show effects. Spend 15 – 20 minutes for yourself everyday and the results will be visible within a week or 10 days. Spend some time on yoga or exercise and take care of your diet as well. All these things will help you have a good, flawless and glowing skin.
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Beauty Tips for Dry Skin
Dry skin can make your face look dull. Therefore, you need to follow right skin care remedies for taking care of your dry skin. If you skin type is dry, you need to take extra care during winters. Read on to find beauty tips for dry skin.
Dry skin can be by nature or due to the season or place. Although dry skin can happen anytime in the year, winter is the season when dry skin is very prevalent and common. If you take few precautions and proper care of your dry skin you will stay away from the drawbacks of the dry skin. First you should find out which part of your body tends to dry more like face, feet, hands or entire body.
Why the Skin Turn dry During Winter?
In winter the temperature is low and so is the humidity in the atmosphere. We do have to face strong and harsh winds most often and this depletes the natural lipid layer of the skin turning it dry. Also the dry air that comes out of the furnaces and heat blowers, make your skin dry.
Tips for Dry Skin
Regular Cleansing - Clean your face habitually and moisturize it with the right kind of moisturiser.
Take Care of Your Diet - Make some changes in your diet that can help improve your skin’s appearance. You can eat fish as much as you can because it contains omega 3 which is very healthy and supporting for the skin.
Drink Plenty of Water - This will save your skin from dehydration as well as drying out of your skin too.
Avoid Using hot Water Bath - Make use of slightly warm water while taking bath as hot water also produces dryness in your skin. Extremely hot water leads to skin losing moisture. If you cannot stay go without taking bath with warm water in winter, try to limit it to few minutes or try to switch to lukewarm water.
Apply Moisturising Cream after Bath - As soon as you finish drying up, apply a good moisturising cream or body lotion all over your body parts.
Avoid using Soaps - Do not use soaps or at least avoid dry soaps for your body and especially for your face. You can use glycerin soap or soaps especially made for dry skin.
Use Day and Night Cream - Although people use moisturisers during the day time, night creams are also very important especially when you are suffering from dry skin. This will save your skin from getting hydrated during the night time.
Use Hydrating Face Mask - Make use of a face mask that hydrates your skin. It can even repair your skin too.
Do not Overdo Cleansing - When you are going through the cleansing part, make sure you just do the right thing. You will have to follow the same routine everyday and it is not that if you do the cleansing and moisturising one day, you will not need it the other day.
Limit Sun Exposure - Save yourself from prolong exposure to sun. Use sunscreen lotion whenever you go out.
Save from Strong and Dry Winds - Protect yourself from dry winds during winter.
The main thing is that you need to follow a regular regime of skin care if your skin is dry in nature. If you are able to follow the right skin care regime and take some precautions mentioned here, you will be able to stay away from the side effects of dry skin. Try to use natural and herbal skin care products so that you have the satisfaction of using chemical free skin care products.
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Beauty Tips for Coping with Pimples
Pimples can be caused due to oily skin, faulty eating habits, improper skin care and lot of other factors. If you are coping with pimples, you must read the following article. In this article you will find common causes of pimples and how to cope with pimples. Read on to find beauty tips for coping with pimples.
People mostly believe that pimples occur due to adolescent age, which is not completely true. There are many reasons behind the occurrence of pimples and so it is better to know the cause first and then treat it accordingly. Here the food we eat has a major role to play. Whatever the reason or the age may be, no one likes to have even one pimple. The main reason is that they occur on face, especially on cheeks, nose, forehead and spoils the look of the person.
Causes of Pimples
Have a quick look at some common causes of pimples.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is one of the causes behind occurrence of pimples. To avoid this, you should take care of your oily skin and keep it clean and free from oil as much as possible.
Touching Face
People have the habit of touching their face very now and then. This transfers the dirt and dust on hands to the face which enters into the skin through pores. This also causes pimples.
Diet
Wrong eating habits are one of the major causes of occurring of pimples. You must avoid fried and junk food items as much as possible.
Constipation
Constipation is a very common problem and this result in eruption of pimples every now and then. For this you need to add fiber in your diet and get rid of constipation.
Home Remedies for Pimples
Here is how you can cope with pimples by using home remedies.
Honey is one of the greatest remedies for pimples. It actually kills the bacteria and helps people stay away from pimples.
Juice of raw papaya when applied on pimples helps get rid of them and also gives good results on skin.
Apply toothpaste on the pimple and leave it for few minutes. It will take off the pimple and leave your skin blemish free. Just keep in mind that the toothpaste is of paste variety and not gel and it is not left applied for too long time.
Peel and grate raw potato and put it in soft or muslin cloth and then rub this gently on your face. In the absence of these, you can apply potato pieces on your face and rub gently. This will help you get rid of the scars.
Eat lot of fresh fruits and vegetables regularly. This helps keep the digestive system strong and healthy and keeps your face free of pimples too.
Drink lots of water. This will clean the toxins and save you from dehydration and other skin problems.
Dry the orange peel for four days and powder it. Wash your face after applying paste of orange peel powder with water and leaving it for few minutes. You can use this 2 - 3 times a day as the requirement may be.
Mix lemon juice and groundnut oil in equal amounts and apply it on your face. Leave it for 15 minutes and then wash it off with water. This works as prevention from pimples.
Make pulp of ripe potatoes and apply it on pimples. Leave for an hour and then wash off.
Clean your face at night and keep it make-up free.
If you keep in mind these points and take regular care of your face, you will definitely be able to get rid of pimples and will also save your skin from the blemishes and recurrence of pimples every now and then. Make sure you have proper and right meal and you keep your face clean using right skin care products.
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Beauty Tips for Fairness
Are you looking for beauty tips for fairness? In this article you will find top 10 tips for fairness. Fairness is one of the features of beauty and not only women but also men want to have fair skin these days. Read on to find good beauty tips for fairness.
Getting a fair skin is not the ultimate choice of girls because today, men are also rushing towards trying different skin care products just to get a beautiful, fair and glowing skin. Gone are the days when men used to like the rugged look or girls got impressed by tall, dark and handsome men. Things have changed and so preferences and inclinations have also changed a lot in the recent past.
Beauty tips for fairness is effective for all types of skins. No matter whether you have a round face or oval face, the face packs and the creams will work equally. The only thing that you need to consider is whether your skin is oily, dry or combined and the texture of your skin. There are many tips and suggestions that will help you improve and make your skin fairer.
Top 10 Beauty Tips for Fairness
1.Cleansing your skin is the first step and is the most important one too. Use a mild cleanser and follow the instructions provided on the label. Rub the cleansing lotion in a circular motion and gently massage your face with it. This stimulates blood circulation and helps in enhancing the effect of the fairness lotion or face pack.
2.Great looks come only when the skin is kept clean. So cleanse your face at least twice daily.
3.Mix equal amounts of honey and lemon juice and apply it to your face. Wash your face after ten minutes and you will have a glow on your skin.
4.Lemon juice, tamarind, honey, turmeric all are natural beaching agents. You can use any of these to lighten up your skin tone.
5.Drink plenty of water daily so that the toxins in your body get washed away.
6.Take 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 tablespoons of powdered almonds, with 1 / 2 teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply this on your face massaging gently and wash it after few minutes with warm water.
7.Grated white radish is useful for making skin fairer when applied on the face.
8.Mix 1 teaspoonful of yogurt with a pinch of turmeric powder and apply it on your face. Wash after few minutes.
9.Take 4 almonds and soak them overnight. Make a fine paste by grinding it with milk. Apply this on your face before going to bed and wash your face next morning with cold water. Do this for 15 days and see the difference.
10.Mix 2 - 3 drops of lemon juice to grated tomato and apply it on face and neck. Leave for 20 minutes and wash your face.
If you will follow these home made face packs and cleansers you will definitely find the difference in your skin tone. There are many fairness creams available in the market and these confuse the consumers and they most often are unable to decide which one is right for them.
The best skin care products are those that can be prepared in front of your eyes and with the things you know well. A freshly made face pack is far better than a packed one. So, if you really want a good and fair skin, you should spend sometime for yourself and make use of the natural products and face packs. You will be free from any side effect and will have a flawless and glowing skin in return.
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Beauty Tips for Glowing Skin
Do you want to have glowing skin? If you follow simple beauty tips for glowing skin, you can get glowing skin very easily. Here are some beauty tips just for you to have glowing, flawless and beautiful skin.
Everyone wishes to have glowing and flawless skin. Just as there are several tips, there are numerous causes behind having flawed skin. If you are able to find the cause and work on curing it or avoiding it, you will get radiance on your skin. It is good if you work on permanent glow instead of going for instant ones. Working on having permanent glow will help you get good skin and save you from having any kind of skin problem also.
If you are able to take care of your skin on regular basis, you will have a velvety soft skin free of any problem. It is always proved, 'Prevention is better than cure'. The first thing is that you should keep your skin clean and take care of your skin in natural ways.
Beauty Tips for Glowing Skin
Have a quick look at the beauty tips for glowing skin.
Cleansing Skin
Cleansing of your skin is important and this should be done on regular basis. Keeping your skin free of dust and germs will help you keep it glowing too. Do not just take care of your face. Pay attention to neck, shoulders and other body parts too.
Eat Healthy
Eat healthy and nutritious food. This has a big role to play and not only helps you stay fit and healthy; it also helps you have a beautiful skin always. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables and add honey instead of sugar in your juice.
Avoid Junk and Fried Food
Junk and fast food items are not good for your skin apart from being harmful for your body. Also avoid fried food as well as simple carbohydrates.
Prevent Constipation
Constipation is one of the reasons why people do not have glowing skin even when they are young. To avoid constipation, drink 2 - 3 glasses of warm water as the first thing in the morning. Also drink at least 8 - 10 glasses of water throughout the day.
Wash your Face
Whenever you go out and come back, wash your face so that the dirt and dust accumulated on your face gets removed immediately. Avoid using soap all the time and natural products to clean your face.
Protect from Sunrays
Use an umbrella or apply sunscreen lotion when you have to go out in sun. The ultra violet rays produce harm to your skin and you need to protect it from that.
Bath
Taking bath twice daily will also help you keep your skin dust free and nourished. At the same time it will help you stay cool as well.
Steam
Steam your face once a week after a light and circular massage. If you have blackheads or whiteheads, add lemon juice to the water and then take the steam.
Exfoliate your Skin
You should exfoliate your skin at regular interval of time and it will be better if you use natural products for the purpose.
Take care of these basic yet important tips and you will find that your skin is getting flawless and has a typical glow gradually. Just keep in mind that you must remove all traces of makeup before you go to bed. Take bath in lukewarm water or cool water. Pay attention to regular exercise as this helps you have soft and velvety skin as well. The best way is to make use of natural skin care products always.
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Home Made Face Packs for Glowing Skin
Home made face masks can work wonders with skin and give you flawless and glowing skin. Home made face masks can suit any type of skin. In this article you will find home made face masks for normal skin, oily skin and dry skin.
If you think that looking good or having that magical glow on your skin costs lot of money, you are wrong. You have everything around you to help you have a glowing skin and you do not have to empty your pocket also. You simply have to take help from Mother Nature and invest some time and put in some of your efforts. Just got to know what type of skin is yours - oily, dry or normal. Select the face pack that best fits in your skin type and go ahead. You will have glowing and flawless skin in few days.
Only if your skin is sensitive or allergic to any natural product, you need to consult a dermatologist. You can put these face packs once a week or if you want instant glow before going for a party or a special dinner.
Home Made Face Packs
Have a quick look at the face packs for different skin types.
Face Packs for Normal Skin
Take juice of half tomato or orange and add it to two teaspoons of curd. Apply this mixture on your face and neck in upward direction. Let it dry and then wash with cold water and wipe it gently.
Save the papaya peel and rub the inner portion on your face. Wash your face with cold water when it dries up.
Grate cabbage and extract juice of half cup of grated cabbage. Apply this on your face, let it dry and wash with cold water. This will help prevent occurring of wrinkles and will tighten your skin as well.
Take juice of one carrot after grinding and apply it on your face. After it dries up wash with cold water. This will make your skin younger.
The skin of apple is also a best skin cleanser.
Beat white of an egg and apply on your face in upward direction. Wash after it dries up to delay occurrence of wrinkles.
Face Packs for Oily Skin
Take 2 spoon of wheat flour and make a paste using water. Apply on your face in upward direction and wash with cold water when it dries up.
Mix two teaspoon of raw milk, two teaspoon of cucumber juice and few drops of lemon. Apply this on your face and wash when it dries out.
Soak two teaspoons of fenugreek seeds overnight and grind it to paste in the morning. Apply this paste on your face and wash after it is dry.
Apply cucumber juice and wash after dry.
Grind two teaspoon of whole red gram after soaking it overnight. Apply the paste on your face and wash when dry.
Face Packs for Dry Skin
Mash one ripe banana and add 1 teaspoon of honey to it. Apply this on your face and wash when dry.
Add milk to grind 2 teaspoon of poppy seeds soaked overnight. Apply on face and wash after it dries up.
Take one teaspoon of milk cream, add few drops of olive oil and a pinch of turmeric. Apply on your face and wash when dry.
Applying raw milk in upward direction also helps rejuvenate dry skin.
Take 2- 5 peanuts and grind it with raw milk. Add a little bit of honey and apply it on your face. Wash after it gets dried.
Find your skin type and choose the home made face packs just right for you. Once you start using it you will feel the difference. In addition to this pay attention to your diet and add fresh fruits and vegetables to it.
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How to Have Natural Pink Lips
Everyone wants to look attractive and have beautiful luscious lips. Get tips for naturally pink lips without much hassle. If you think having naturally pink lips is hassling, read to know how simple and less time taking it is. Read more
Lips are one of the features that catch attention of the onlooker. Everyone, especially girls and women wish to have luscious lips but at the same time they wish to have them look naturally pink. Although there are artificial ways to make your lips look pink and beautiful, keeping it naturally pink can have unmatched effect. Here are some tips that will help you make your lips naturally pink. Even if they are dark in color you can make them turn pink or lighten their darkness gradually.
Tips to Have Natural Pink Lips
Avoid Hot Bath - The first thing that you should keep in mind if you want to keep your lips looking good and pink is that you should stay away from heat. This means avoid hot showers, hot baths and hot sun. These will take away moisture from your lips and will trigger dryness instead. Use a wax based lip gloss or lip balm when going out in sun to protect your lips from getting dried or faded.
Beetroot Juice - Apply juice of beetroot before going to bed. You can also extract juice from a beetroot and apply it 3 - 4 times during daytime. You can also apply this while going out. It will appear like you have used lipstick.
Rose Petals - Grind Rose petals and apply before going to bed. Crush 4 - 5 Rose petals and brush them on your lips. You can make lip balm by mixing the crushed rose petals with milk cream and apply it on your lips. This you can apply and keep for 20 minutes and then wash off.
Ghee - Natural ghee can improve the health and pinkness of your lips if applied regularly. You can wash it off after sometime. You will not even need a lip balm after that for the whole day.
Mustard Oil - Mustard oil has been used to cure dry skin since old times. Here the tip is different. You have to put 1 - 2 drops of mustard oil in your belly buttons before going to sleep at night. It not only heals the chapped lips, but makes it soft and smooth also.
Olive Oil - Apply olive oil on your lips before going to take bath. You will never need a lip balm. You can also apply clove oil in the similar way. This oil has antiseptic property
Exfoliate - Exfoliating of lips is equally important as the skin. Brush your lips with a smooth brush to get rid of dry skin and flakes.
Vitamin E - Apply vitamin E oil at bedtime
Honey - Natural honey applied on lips before going to bed helps get naturally pink lips
Avoid Smoking - Smoking will turn your lips darker.
Watch your Diet - Cut down excess of tea and coffee. Avoid or reduce intake of red wine too. Take a healthy and nutritious diet daily. Vitamin A rich diet will help in making your lips and face look healthy and pink as well.
Following the tips and taking care of your lips and skin in natural way will help a lot in making your lips turn naturally pink. Beautiful lips are really very attractive and getting it naturally is not very hard. You simply have to stay consistent and take care of them with natural home remedies discussed.
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Beauty Tips for Lips
Lip care is the most important part of the beauty care regimen. It is very important to pay attention and maintain the beauty of lips as lips highlight your face. An appropriate lip makeup can make your face look more beautiful. Have quick look at some beauty tips for taking care of your lips and making them more beautiful.
Usually we pay attention to the skin care of our face and even eyes but more often we neglect proper care of other important areas like lips and neck. These are not always included in our daily skin care regime. Lips are extremely delicate part of our face and they are very sensitive too. When lips are not taken care of properly, they become apparently dull and vertical lines also occur sometimes.
One of the facts is that as you age, your lips become dull and prone to dryness, cracking and flaking. If this is not nursed in proper time, it becomes difficult for the person to talk or eat even. Whatever be the reason behind the dullness of lips, proper care will definitely help you stay away from all these problems.
Beauty Tips for Taking Care of Lips
Moisturising Balm - Apply moisturising balms that are specially meant for lips especially during cold season. There are many types of lip balms available. Choose the suitable one for your lip type.
Lipsticks with Moisturisers - If you use a lipstick choose the one that has lip moisturizing element as well as UV protection in it.
Vitamin E - If your lips are affected by strong breeze or winter season, break open a capsule of Vitamin E and apply the content on it. Massage gently so that it penetrates in your lips.
Avoid licking - Usually when people have cracks developed on their lips they find instant relief by licking them. However, this will only increase your pain and cracks because saliva evaporates very quickly leaving the lips drier.
Beauty Tips for Lip Makeup
Every girl dreams of having luscious and kissable lips. Some even go for painful injections or buy lip enhancers available in the market. However, if you pay attention to your lip makeup, you can get the kind of lips you desire to have.
Makeup Tools for Kissable Lips
Use lip liner to help you get the shape of lips you want to have. Make the shape prominent or outstanding by carefully using the lip liner.
When using the lipstick you must select the colour that matches with your attire and your personality too. You can use lighter shades if you have pale skin colour while if your skin is of darker shade, use vibrant colour to enhance the shape and appearance.
You can also use lip gloss to give finishing touch to your lip makeup.
Makeup for Luscious Lips
Before you apply the lip liner, make sure that your lips are soft, smooth and free from lubricant as well. Choose the lip liner close to the colour of your lipstick. Avoid making it too dark.
Use a lip brush to apply lipstick and start from the center moving sideways.
Blot off excess lipstick on your lips by folding a tissue paper between your lips. Just give a light press on the tissue paper.
If you want to have the gleaming look, apply lip gloss and give finishing touch to your lip makeup.
Remember, making your lips up is the final stage of your makeup. There are different types of lipsticks and wide range of colours available. Always choose the colour that suits you and matches with your skin tone. Careful and smart selection of colour will enhance the beauty of your lips.
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Beauty Tips for Dark Lips
Dark lips are one of the beauty issues which both men and women face. However, dark lips can be prevented or dealt with easily by following simple home remedies and tips. Read on to find beauty home remedies for getting rid of dark lips and beauty tips for preventing dark lips right here.
Lips can be of dark, rosy or pink in colour and these are natural colours of lips. However, everyone wants to have pink and rosy lips and no matter what the reason is behind dark lips, men and women wish they would get rid of dark lips. Dark lips are also due to the dark skin tone or they can be due to excess smoking, iron deficiency or some side effect of medicines.
Today with the advancement of science and technology, you can have or create lip colour you want. But in the long run, home remedies or natural treatments are the best ways to get desired results especially when the matter is connected with your face and skin.
Home Remedies to Deal with Dark Lips
Here are some natural beauty tips for getting rid of dark lips.
Equal amount of honey and lime juice can be applied on dark lips. You will get positive results in only few days. You can also mix glycerin to this mixture as it will help make your lips soft and supple too.
Powdered almond is also said to be very helpful. Mix equal amount of powdered almonds with milk and apply this on your lips. Regular use of this will help you have lighter colour and then ultimately the pink lips that you desire for.
Applying butter on your lips will make them lighter, soft and agile.
Aloe Vera is also very effective, apply the Aloe Vera gel on your lips daily and you will get pink lips after sometime, getting rid of the dryness as well.
Apply milk daily on your lips. This will make you lips lighter and soft eventually.
Exfoliate your lips at regular intervals with lemon juice and glycerin. You simply have to rub the mixture gently on your lips.
If you have stains on your lips, you can apply pure almond oil. You can mix it with cream before applying. It will not only help make the lips stainless, but also moisturize it and make it look luscious.
Try juices of beetroot, pomegranate or coriander to lighten your lip colour. These will also help you get pink lips later.
Apply thin layer of toothpaste and leave it overnight, your lips will become redder and smoother.
Tips and Advices for Preventing Dark Lips
Here are some tips for preventing dark lips.
Get rid of your smoking habit.
Protect your lips and skin from exposure to sun. Apply sunscreen to your lips when you go out in sun.
Avoid or cut down intake of coffee and tea.
Cut down application of lipsticks as much as you can. Regular and more use of lipsticks are also one of the causes behind darkening of lips.
Keep your lips moisturized, conditioned and protect it from sun, dust and pollution as much as you can.
Follow the tips and you will find great difference in the colour and feel of your lips. These remedies are all convenient, easy to apply and mot much time taking also. Take care of your diet and keep it balanced and eat fresh fruits daily. Eat more healthy food items. Just remember that the main thing is to give your lips a healthier and smoother look. Make use of skin friendly cosmetics that are free from chemicals and switch to natural products as much as you can.
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How to Have Natural Red Lips
Naturally red lips are one of the ornaments of beauty. Do you want to know how to have natural red lips? In this article you will find tips for having natural red lips. Read on and find best home remedies for having natural red lips. You will also find tips for maintaining your natural red lips.
Lips are said to be the second point of attraction on any woman’s face after eyes. Lips do get older along with you and your skin. But if you want to keep your lips luscious and naturally red, you will have to spend some time and put in your effort. There are natural ways by which you can make your lips look younger, bigger and red.
Everyone, especially women long to have red lips. However, there are many factors that take away the natural redness of your lips. With the natural tips you can restore the plumpness and young looks and this you can do by making it soft and sensual. One of the facts is that red lips do depend a lot of genetics, but you can treat them to look red also. So, without spending a lot on cosmetics, you can have red lips and that too by following natural methods.
Tips to Have Natural Red Lips
Have a quick look at the tips for having natural red lips.
Extract ginger juice and mix it with the yolk of a village chicken’s egg. Have this with your breakfast every day. You will see the difference in no time.
If your lips are allergic to lipsticks, you can add egg yolk and honey to green coconut water and drink daily.
Apply few drops of olive oil mixed with honey or sugar on your lips. Make sure your lips are free of lipstick. Rub the mixture gently on your lips and then wash it off.
Make paste of a beetroot and apply on your lips. Wash it after half an hour and you will find the instant and natural redness in your lips.
Increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Do not lick your lips often. This will make it dry and pale.
Use a lip moisturiser during daytime, especially when you go out. Make sure the moisturiser has sunscreen.
Make a paste by mixing 1 tablespoon of sugar with olive oil, coconut oil or cocoa butter. Brush your lips with this mixture constantly for 30 seconds and then wash them off.
Use lip balms that contain Vitamin E, almond, shea butter or jojoba. If you use this balm regularly, you will be able to preserve the softness of your lips.
Massaging your lips with coconut oil daily will reduce fine lines and wrinkles on it.
Remedies for Preventing Dark Lips
To maintain your natural red lips, you need to prevent darkening of lips. Have a quick look at some tips for preventing dark lips.
If your lips have blackened, you can apply toothpaste on it before taking bath. It will get lightened in few days.
Quit smoking immediately, if you smoke.
Avoid using lipstick for too long time as well as using too much of lipstick or its frequent use should also be avoided.
Clean your lips of any lipstick and apply honey on it everyday at bedtime.
Besides all these tips, it is very important you take care of your lips daily to save it from getting cracked, thin or chapped. Remember, loss of moisture make the lips flaky, dry or cracked. Along with moisturising your skin you need to exfoliate your lips regularly.
If you are not gifted with beautiful lips, you can even create an illusion of having fuller lips by applying right kind and way of lip makeup. Use the make up tips that are helpful for you in making your lips look luscious on special occasions.
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How to Have Natural Looking Make-up
Having natural looking make-up is a must when you apply make-up on regular basis. Make-up for getting the natural look includes basic skin care regimen, moisturising, eye make-up, lip make-up etc. Read on to find quick tips on the steps which you need to follow to get a natural looking make-up.
If you are a person who likes to have natural glow on face and at the same time hiding the flaws of the skin, here are some tips that will help you have a natural make-up. The word make-up usually brings in mind a slight coating on anyone’s face or some additional outside layer that is added to the face. However, there are still many women who want to give their face a freshened up look but do not prefer make-up materials. Today, even the celebrities do not fancy over doing of make-up.
Natural make-up means there should be a natural glow on your face and skin. Make sure the shine is not excess as it will make the skin look oily. You can apply the natural make-up tips to get a natural look on daily basis also.
Tips Helpful in Having Natural Make-up
Have a quick look at the steps for having a natural looking make-up.
Basic Skin Care
Find out your skin type and make it clean before applying any kind of make-up. If you have any kind of skin problem like blackheads or spots, it is better you exfoliate your skin first.
Skin Mositurising
Second step is to moisturize your skin and this should be done by taking a pea size amount of the moisturizing lotion and then gently massaging your face with that.
Apply Foundation
Next step is to make use of the foundation. Here you have to be very careful and conscious and choose the right colour and type of foundation that suits you perfectly. While testing the colour of the foundation, make sure you move your face in different angles and check out so that the colour matches with your skin tone perfectly.
Apply the foundation using your fingers. This will give you the perfect natural look. If you have an even-toned skin you can avoid the foundation and simply use a luminizing powder.
Add blush
Now it is the time to add blush. Experts are of the opinion that you should give your cheeks a rosy radiance and apply the blush exactly on the spot where you blush. If you are not sure about the spot, you can check that out right after your workout session.
Eye Make-up
Now it is the time for the make-up of your eyes. Here you can go ahead and have some experiments too. Make your eye lashes curl, keep the colour soft and keep it close to the lash line. Swipe the same colour slightly under the brows so that it mixes with the colour of the cheeks and gives your face a perfect balance of colours.
Apply Lipstick
Apply natural coloured lipstick on your lips. You can also use a lip liner to redefine the shape of your lips and fill in with a natural lip gloss. This will add up to the natural make-up and will make you look attractive and at the same time you will not have the apprehension of overdoing anything.
Follow the tips and keep in mind that the colours you use must blend with each other perfectly. Remember, using natural make-up is also good for the health of your skin and face. Also keep an eye on your cosmetic products and do not use old ones. Try to enhance your natural features with the help of make-up and do not hide them. You can also take advice from a trusted friend about the colours that you should use.
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How to Have Natural Rosy Cheeks
Having rosy cheeks naturally is an add-on to the overall beauty. If you want to have rosy cheeks naturally, you can follow these beauty tips. These beauty tips are very simple to follow. By following these beauty tips you can get natural rosy cheeks without spending a penny.
The definition of beauty has changed in recent past. People are taking towards natural glow and many people consider tanned skin more beautiful as it makes you look naturally beautiful. Natural rosy cheeks are a real center of attraction. However, even if you believe in tanning your skin every now and then, make sure you take proper care and protect your skin from harmful sunrays. The ultraviolet rays of the sun are extremely harmful and can cause skin damages and if uncared or left untreated, it may cause skin cancer also.
Tips to Have a Natural Glow and Rosy Cheeks
Have a quick look at the tips for enhancing your beauty by having natural red cheeks.
Nutrition
This is the most important thing that can bring natural glow to your skin. Have a balanced diet regularly. Pay proper attention to nutrition; add fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. This will help you have a natural glow on your skin and your cheeks will turn rosy naturally.
Exercise
Exercise regularly. This will not only help you have a good health, you can also have the health displayed through your skin and this will reflect through your rosy cheeks. Proper nutrition and right amount of exercise is the best way to have natural radiance on your skin, especially face. If you will exercise outside, you will automatically have a rosy glow on your cheeks.
Exfoliate
In addition to regular cleansing of your face and skin, you should pay attention to exfoliating your skin at regular intervals. You can use juice of one lemon and whip it with the help of the blender. Now apply this to your face. Wash your face with fresh water after few minutes. This will not only help clean your face but will also help exfoliate it and make it fairer too. If your skin is dry add flour to the juice and apply evenly on your face. Leave it for 20 minutes and then wash your face with warm water. Use of this mask daily will clean your face and help you have rosy cheeks as well.
Face Mask
Cucumber face mask is very helpful when you wish to clean and exfoliate your skin. Just blend the cucumber in our mixer and apply the pulp on your face. Leave it for sometime and then wash your face. Applying apple cider vinegar on your cheeks will also help you have pink and rosy cheeks. Dip a cotton ball in the apple cider vinegar and tab it on your cheeks and let it dry.
Take Dietary Supplements
Taking Vitamin E and Vitamin C will help you have rosy cheeks naturally. Take care that you increase intake of fresh fruits. Apply paste of powdered orange peel with fresh milk or cream on your cheeks. Use of this regularly will help you get healthy and beautiful looking cheeks.
Avoid Stress and Anger
Try to talk softly and if you will blush naturally, you will have rosy cheeks automatically. Anger and stress will make your skin fade and the natural beauty will automatically fade away. The tips are extremely helpful and they are beneficial only when you pay attention to proper nutrition and healthy routine. Massaging your face will also help you have a flawless skin and your cheeks will be pink and rosy. Just keep in mind, if your overall health is good it will be reflected through your face and skin automatically.
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Beauty Tips for Pimple Marks
Though you are successful in getting rid of pimples, curing pimple marks can be quite daunting. However, some beauty treatments and natural remedies can help you to get rid of pimple marks or pimple scars easily. Read on to find how you can cope with pimple marks with beauty treatments and natural remedies.
Once you get rid of pimples, they leave ugly marks on your face. Although it is not difficult to deal with pimple marks, dealing with acne and pimple scars can be frustrating at times. It also depends on how long you have been suffering from pimples and what was the treatment you went through to get rid of it. Also, the effects of different types of treatments vary from person to person.
Treatment Options for Pimple Marks
There are few treatment options to remove the left over scars of pimples. It is good to consult a dermatologist so that he prescribes you the right kind of treatment.
Chemical Peels - In this treatment the first layer of the skin gets peeled off which automatically even out the marks and scars. This can be done by beauty salons and dermatologists.
Dermabrasion - This treatment is done in beauty clinics and salons and gives quick and visible results as well. If you want to remove the scars completely you will have to give few sittings.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid - This helps in the growth of skin cells which helps in reducing the scars and blemishes. This is found in creams and lotions that can be found in any cosmetic or medicine store.
Laser Treatment - This is one of the ways of treating pimple scars that is very effective. It is an expensive method of getting rid of pimple marks because if the scars are deep you will have to go for more than one sitting for the treatment.
Natural Methods for Coping with Pimple Marks
Chemical or artificial ways of treating pimple marks have some disadvantages attached to it. They are expensive and have some or the other side effects. Although some treatments give you temporary side effects, they differ from person to person. However, if you opt for natural remedies, it is for sure that you will not have to undergo any side effects and you will find the ingredients right into your kitchen.
Lemon Juice - This is very effective and can be applied on the scars directly. This will lighten your pimple marks and eventually it will go away.
Vitamin E - Most of the people are now aware that Vitamin E is beneficial for skin and problems related to it. It is also possible that the scars are there just because of the deficiency of Vitamin E in your skin. Get a good nourishing cream that has Vitamin E in it and start using it as directed. You will find positive results in no time.
Puree of Fruits - Make puree of fruits like pineapple or apple and apply on the affected area. Wash your face after 20 minutes.
Sandal Wood Paste - Make a paste of sandalwood powder and black gram dal and apply it on the scars. Leave overnight and wash it in the morning. Paste of sandalwood power and rose water applied on the scars also help remove the scars. Leave the paste overnight and then wash your face in the morning.
Cucumber Juice - Application of cucumber juice on face also helps lighten the scars.
Tomato Slice - Rub a sliced tomato on your face. Leave for 15 - 20 minutes and then wash.
These are natural ways of treating pimple marks. Keep in mind that it will take some time and will give better results if carried on consistently. It is good to stay natural for an effective, long term and side effect free cure from pimple marks..
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Acne - Causes and Cures
Acne is caused due to stress, excessive, usage of bad cosmetics, improper diet, hormonal imbalance etc. However, acne can be cured using the natural ingredients available right at your finger tips. Read on to find more about the cause of acne and natural cures for acne.
When treating skin disorders, it is good to stick to natural ways and remedies. This is because you are sure about one thing, that is, you will not have to undergo any adverse side effects after the treatment is over. However, as far as acne is concerned you will find plenty of home remedies and the ingredients will be found right in your kitchen. Before trying out any remedy, it is good to find out causes behind your acne eruption. This will help you treat the acne from both sides, inside and outside.
Acne is a common problem. It not only looks ugly but the person suffering from it feels embarrassed and it irritates him or her too. Although most people believe that acne eruption is only possible in teenagers, it is not completely true. This is because acne is caused due to deposit of oil and dirt on the skin. Sometimes they result into painful forms also.
Causes Behind Eruption of Acne
Have a quick look at some common causes of acne.
Chronic constipation
Stress
Hormones
Bad cosmetics
Birth control pills
Home Remedies for Curing Acne
Here are some traditional home remedies for curing acne.
Just give in some effort and time and you will not only be able to get rid of acne but they will never erupt in future.
Keep your face clean. Make use of a good cleanser to clean your face off dirt and oil twice daily.
Lemon is extremely useful for treating acne and pimples. Mix 1 teaspoonful of lemon juice and equal amount of cinnamon powder to the acne. Leave it for sometime and then wash your face. Remember, if you have a sensitive skin, you should not apply this.
Rub and apply fresh garlic on your pimples and the surrounding areas. You will find remarkable results.
If your acne is aggravated and swollen, try applying fresh and ripe papaya pulp on it. You can also make the juice of papaya with its seeds and peels and apply it on the affected area for positive results.
Take a glass of boiled milk and add fresh lemon juice to it. Use this mixture as face wash. You will get rid of acne very soon.
Lemon juice mixed with equal amount of rose water also helps eliminate acne.
Apply pulp of ripe tomatoes on the affected area and leave it for one hour and wash your face after that. Repeat this treatment for few days for good results.
Applying juice of mint leaves every night on the acne will also give you excellent results.
These home remedies are proven ones and you will definitely find positive results using them. Just keep in mind that the process will take some time and so you will have to be patient when applying them. Take out some time from your busy routine and invest for the health of your skin and for caring your face.
Some people opt for chemical remedies just because they want instant results. However, these most often leave scars and blemishes behind for which they have to look for other remedies. The best thing to cure acne is to find the right cause behind it. Treating the cause will automatically reduce and eliminate eruption of acne on your face. Acne controlling measures will certainly help you have a clear and flawless skin.
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Home Remedies for Dark Spots
Dark spots are threat to the beauty. But, some home remedies can work wonders with your skin for curing dark spots. Read on to find tips for treating dark spots by using some simple home remedies.
Dark spots are seen on face, upper arms or feet. Although they are harmless, they can be reason for embarrassment. There are many reasons why the dark spots occur and the most common one is excess exposure to sunlight. Secondly ageing is also one of the causes behind dark spots. However, no matter what the cause is behind the occurrence of your dark spots, if you learn about it, it will be easy for you to treat in naturally.
If you want to get rid of the dark spots naturally, you will find a plenty of things right into your kitchen. If you get familiar with the things and how to use them, it will be easy for you to make use of them. Here are some tips that will help you make use of simple things that we use in our everyday life to get rid of dark spots.
Common Home Remedies for Facial Dark Spots
Since face is one of the most sensitive parts of your body, you should treat your dark spots naturally. Using chemicals on your face can be harmful and may create some other problem also.
Aloe Vera - Aloe Vera is a plant with regenerative properties and the extract comes in gel form. Regular application of Aloe Vera gel will reduce the dark spots on your skin as the regeneration will make the new cells replace the old ones. These dark spots can be also because of a pimple or zit that occurred sometime back.
Glycerin based Creams - Glycerin helps in rejuvenation of skin. You can get a glycerin based cream in any store and regular application of this cream will eventually fade away dark spots. It is better to apply this cream at night so that it does the healing without getting disturbed by the sunlight. You can also apply few drops of glycerin to your regular moisturiser and apply to your skin.
Citrus Fruits - Fruits like lemons, oranges and limes are called citrus fruits and they contain vitamin C. Lemon is considered as the most helpful fruit when it comes to getting rid of dark spots. You can apply lemon juice directly on your face with the help of cotton. It will bleach your skin and clarify the spots. Lemon juice can also be added to any fruit or vegetable face mask.
Parsley - Parsley juice mixed with orange, lemon and red currant juice can be applied for positive results.
Milk and Honey - Dark facial spots can be treated by applying milk and honey on the face. You can use these two items along with any facial pack also. You can also heat some honey and then apply to your face. Tap your face gently with your fingers. Here you need to wash the honey with warm water and then splash cool water on your face.
Vitamin E - Apply vitamin E at night before going to bed.
Sugar and Lemon Juice - Add little sugar to lemon juice and apply it on the freckles of your face with the help of a brush.
Keeping your skin clean and germ free can also help you remain free from dark spots. Remember, prevention is better than cure. Sometimes improper functioning of liver can also result in dark spots. So, get your tests done and make sure you find out the real cause behind these spots so that the right remedy is followed.
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Dealing with Dark Underarms
Are you coping with dark underarms? If you follow right beauty remedies, you can deal with dark underarms easily. Read on to find the causes of dark underarms and tips for dealing with dark underarms naturally.
Dark underarms make many women feel embarrassed. When you have to wear sleeveless tops, you must be taking all caution not to raise your hands just to hide your dark underarms. Some of you might be choosing the tops that hide your underarms with the sleeves even if that does not look actually smart.
Well, there are natural remedies that can help you get rid of dark armpits and you will not need to avoid exposing your armpits. There are certain factors that should be avoided. There are many women who walk around with this problem but they do not know that there are simple solutions for this problem.
Causes of Dark Underarms
Have a quick look at the causes of dark underarms.
Shaving - It has been observed that excess of shaving results in dark underarms. The main reason here is that the hair is not pulled from the root and so it becomes visible in one or two days which makes the woman shave again and again.
Hair removing creams - Regular use of hair removing creams also makes the armpits darker. The chemical in the cream is harsh and burns the skin too. You can avoid using them on regular basis or choose a cream that has components safer in this regard.
Deodorants - Most of the deodorants are harmful and so you can stay away from deodorants when you are at home. Choose deodorants that are chemical free or less harmful.
Hair Removal Methods for Preventing Dark Underarms
Here are some safe ways remove hair from underarms and prevent dark underarms.
Waxing - This is a method of removing hair from underarms in a safer mode. This is because waxing removes hair from the roots and it clears the skin because there is no hair left under the skin. It also helps clear the dead skin and so the skin is in lighter shade. Just make sure that the temperature of the wax is right so that you are saved from the burns resulted through that.
Epilator - Use of epilator can help you remain hair free on a daily basis.
Bleaching - Bleaching and whitening treatments of your armpits can result in lighter skin tone.
Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Dark Armpits
Here are some home remedies which can be used to cure dark armpits naturally.
Use baking soda and rub it on your armpits before taking bath.
Maintain personal and health hygiene.
Avoid using deodorants as far as possible.
Take a lemon and rub it in the area. You can do this before taking bath.
Make a paste of teaspoon of gram flour, few drops of lemon and a teaspoonful of cream. Apply this on your hair free armpits and rub off after some time.
Avoid wearing insufficient clothes. Cover your body parts to avoid such situation.
Apply whitening creams and lotions.
Go to your dermatologist so that you can go through the treatment that targets the cells of the body.
In addition to taking care of the above mentioned tips you can also take some precautions so that you remain free from dark armpits. Try to avoid using products that irritate your skin and observe proper hygiene. Use talcum powder when you stay at home as this absorbs sweat.
Pay attention to the cleanliness of your clothes. Find out the cause behind darkness of your underarms and deal with it. You do not have to get embarrassed; you can get rid of the dark armpits naturally and without spending lots of money too.
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How to Get Fair Skin
Fairness is one of the signs of beauty. Not only women but also men want to have fair and glowing skin. It is not necessary that fair skin can be obtained only after applying expensive cosmetics and undergoing costly beauty treatments for fair skin. Read on to find simple tips for getting fair skin.
Men and women have always wanted to get fair skin. Nowadays, the skin gets dark also because of more exposure to sun and pollution. It has been observed that many people who have to stay outdoors for long get dark skin on hands and face and the place that is not covered with clothes.
There are many reasons why the skin does not show its natural fairness. If you are able to find out the reason, it will be easy for you to follow the tips as they differ from reason to reason. There are four steps to get your fairness back.
Basic Steps for Fairness
Here are some basic steps to keep your skin fair and glowing.
Exfoliate your Skin - It is good to prepare a homemade skin peal for exfoliation as this will have no side effects and will work well on your skin. This will help you get rid of dead skin and promote new cells to develop. Give an interval of at least three days after doing the peal therapy. Use cold creams and avoid giving your skin sun exposure during this period.
Use natural Scrub - This will remove all dead cells. However, there is no need to be harsh with the scrub. Make use of the scrub gently. You can use moisturiser after this. Give a break of three days or you can wait for a week also.
Skin Whitening - Now it is the time to use skin whitening and here too you should prefer natural skin whitening. This will rejuvenate your skin and help you get a fair complexion as well. Wait for one day and then proceed with step four.
Tightening of Skin - This is usually done in the evening and you can put the natural skin tightening solution for one hour. Remove the pack and apply cold cream and just go to sleep. Next morning wash your face with cold water.
If you use these four steps of skin whitening measure and make use of natural face packs, you will definitely see positive results and get back your fairness as well.
Natural Remedies and Tips for Fair Skin
Natural remedies can work wonders with your skin to make it fair and glowing. Have a quick look at these natural remedies for fair skin.
Grind almonds into a fine paste and mix it with rose water. Regular application will bring a natural fairness.
Cut a tomato and rub it gently on your face and affected parts. Wash it off after 15 minutes. You can see the difference in few days.
Soak potatoes for 10 minutes in cold water. Rub this on face, neck and hands. Wash off after 15 minutes. Using this method regularly, you will find difference in few days.
Soak four almonds at night. Remove the skin and grind them. Mix gram flour, one tea spoon of milk and few drops of lime juice. Massage your face with this regularly and you will find the difference in few days.
Grape juice brings remarkable difference and you can get your fairness back if you apply grape juice or grape seeds regularly.
Make a paste of cucumber with coconut water and apply it on your face, neck and hands. This will also help bring back the glow on your face.
Applying turmeric powder and sandalwood paste regularly and see the difference.
Nature has lot to give and these natural and handy tips will help you get your complexion back. The best part is that you will get everything in your kitchen and you will also be saved from any kind of chemical that is added to beauty products these days.
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Dark Underarms - Causes and Treatments
Dark underarms are observed by both males and females. Dark underarms are caused due to excessive sweating, usage of deodorants, improper skin care and so on. You can get rid of dark underarms easily if you follow some simple home remedies. Read on to find more about the causes of dark underarms and tips for treating and preventing dark underarms naturally.
Do you suffer from dark underarms? Do they make you feel embarrassed and shy of wearing sleeveless outfits? Well, there are some natural treatments that can help you get rid of dark armpits. There are various causes behind having dark underarms and they include sweating, lack of proper cleanliness, regular shaving, friction due to some specific material of clothing, use of deodorants and many others.
It is rather difficult for people who are born with dark underarms to get it lightened. However, if you are otherwise fair and have dark underarms due to some reason, you can get it lightened and on regular and consistent use of natural remedies, you can even get rid of them as well.
Dark Underarms Causes
Following are some of the common causes of dark underarms.
Excessive sweating
Regular shaving
Regular use of deodorants
Friction due to tight tops or blouses
Infection
Lack of cleanliness
Building up of dead cells
Use of chemicals and alcohol
Home Remedies for Dark Underarms
Try these home remedies for getting rid of dark underarms naturally.
One of the most easy and simple method is to rub lemon slice on dark armpits.
Apply Vitamin E oil.
Washing your armpits with coconut oil will also help you get rid of dark underarms
Make a paste of 1 teaspoonful of cucumber juice, same amount of lime juice with a pinch of turmeric powder. Apply this paste on your armpits and leave it for 20 minutes and then rinse. If you use this method alternate day you will find good results.
Make a paste of 1 teaspoon of curd, gram flour of same amount, a pinch of turmeric powder with 1 teaspoonful of milk. Wait till it dries and then rinse it with cold water.
You can also apply some rejuvenating cream and leave it overnight to treat the discolouration.
Paste of rosewater and sandalwood powder also helps in chucking out the problem of dark underarms.
Apply potato juice on the affected area and keep it for sometime. It is an active natural bleaching agent and will remove darkness from your underarms.
Tips for Preventing Dark Underarms
Here are some simple tips for preventing dark underarms.
Use talcum powder in place of deodorants.
Avoid razors and hair removing creams at least for some time.
Avoid wearing synthetic clothes. Instead wear cotton and skin friendly clothes.
Use antifungal powder instead of antiperspirants.
Follow these natural remedies and you will find a great difference in the colour of your underarms. One of the facts is that many people inherit dark underarms while some get because of one or more causes discussed above. It is good to find out the exact cause behind your dark underarms so that you can avoid using that product and get your skin lightened automatically.
On the other hand, it is easy to get rid of discolouration of underarms in natural ways. You can do everything right with the comforts of your home. Apart from all these remedies, you should take care of cleanliness and hygiene. Also, make it a point that you wear cotton clothes at least in summer as this will prevent you from sweating a lot.
So, it is time now you get ready to wear sleeveless attires and admire your beauty along with having high comfort level. Make it a point that you give proper attention to all your body parts on regular basis.
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Oily Skin Care Tips
Are you coping with oily skin? Right oily skin care regimen can give you positive results. If you want to find good oily skin care regimen, read on. Find the common causes of oily skin, problems associated with oily skin and tips for taking care of your oily skin right here.
Oily skin is a problem faced by many men and women. Oily skin can be caused by a number of factors, but thankfully there are remedies to deal with oily skin. Oily skin can make your skin look excessively shiny.
Oiliness of skin can result in blockage of pores, leading to formation of pimples. Generally it is during adolescence that teenagers are plagued with problems of oily skin and acne breakouts, but sometimes it can continue up to adult years. Here are some tips to deal with oily skin.
Causes of Oily Skin
The problem of oily skin can affect a number of people irrespective of sex, way of life or geographic location. Poor facial cleansing habits, humidity and even exposure to cigarette smoke can be responsible for oily skin.
Both men and women can suffer from oily skin. Sebaceous glands in the pores of the skin produce an oily substance called sebum to keep your skin moisturised. Oily skin is caused when more sebum is produced.
Additionally pregnancy, women going through menopause or those taking birth control pills have greater chances of developing oily skin. A poor diet, genes and hormones are also known to contribute to oily skin.
Problems of Oily Skin
One of the major disadvantages with oily skin is that it tends to accumulate more dust and dirt than dry skin. This causes clogged pores which results in formation of acne and blackheads. If you suffer from oily skin, you might find that your makeup wears off more easily and your skin turns greasy soon after a shower. Your skin always appears shiny, coarse and dull colored. Your pores are more visible and your face always wears a lifeless, greasy look.
Tips for Dealing with Oily Skin
Have a quick look at the tips for dealing with oily skin.
Diet for Oily Skin
Since a possible reason for your oily skin could be deficiency of Vitamin B5 and B2, include foods which contain these vitamins in your diet. Foods like lemons and kiwifruits, beans, nuts and whole grains should be a part of your diet. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day to keep your skin hydrated. Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits.
Facial Cleansing Regimen
Wash your face three to four times a day with a mild and fragrance free cleanser. Keep your face very clean always but do not scrub it too hard. Use oil free products to cleanse your face. Avoid harsh soaps and instead use soaps made from natural ingredients like Aloe Vera based soaps. You can also choose a light medicated soap. Applying clay masks or mud masks on your face is also known to be an effective treatment for oily skin.
Toning and Moisturising for Oily Skin
Toning is essential only if you are suffering from extremely oily skin. However certain alcohol contained in toners can dry out the skin too much which is why people with severely oily skin need to use a toner just once a week or so. For people with oily skin, opt for a toner with alcohol as a component rather than a non alcoholic product. As for moisturising, luckily people with oily skin do not have to worry too much about daily moisturising. Water based moisturisers which have a light, non-greasy feel are great for oily skin.
Benefits of Oily Skin
Do not get too worried about your oily skin. There is some good news as well for those suffering from oily skin. It has been found that those with oily skin are less prone to wrinkles and lines in old age. When they grow older, their skin looks younger as compared to those with dry skin.
Oily skin gets tanned more evenly and uniformly leaving you with an enhanced natural appearance. Also, as compared to dry skin, oily skin is easier to treat. Regular care and the right type of treatment will give you good results.
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Dealing with Wrinkles
Wrinkles are observed mainly due to increasing age. However, there are several other reasons like stress, pollution, smoking, drinking etc, due to which wrinkles can be caused. Read on to know more about the common causes of wrinkles and ways to deal with wrinkles.
Wrinkles are usually associated with ageing but if proper skin care is not taken it may appear sooner than expected. A large number of products can be found in market today that claim to help you get rid of wrinkles in few days or by regular use. Well, these have some or the other artificial agents that can perhaps minimise the appearance of wrinkles on your face.
There are several ways in which you can minimise wrinkles. You need to learn the reasons why wrinkles appear and also some ways to reduce the occurrence of wrinkles. If you start taking care of your skin in early age and use natural products as much as possible, you will automatically reduce the emergence of wrinkles. Just keep in mind that they appear not only on face but also on neck and hands.
Causes of Wrinkles
Here are some of the common causes of wrinkles.
Ageing
Pollution
Stress
Insufficient sleep
Hectic lifestyle
Excess pressure of work
Fatigue
Excessive smoking or drinking
Hereditary
Some kind of health problem
Some facial expressions
Ways to Deal with Wrinkles
The best way to deal with wrinkles is to prevent them from coming.
Balanced Diet - Diet has a very important role to play in your life. Almost everything is based on what you eat including the time, quality and quantity. Choice of food is important. For healthy skin foods rich in vitamin E and C are good. Drinking plenty of pure water is very important for a glowing and flawless skin.
Sunrays - Sun is the main culprit when it comes to skin problems. Overexposure to sun can cause excessive damage to your skin. If you can avoid going out in sun, it is good. Otherwise you can make use of sunscreen and sunglasses while going out.
Regular Skin Care - Taking care of your skin is very important. If you keep your skin clear of pollution, dust and damages, you will keep away wrinkles to great extent. Rejuvenate and exfoliate your skin at regular intervals so that dead skin is rubbed off and gives way to new and fresh one.
Nourishing Your Skin - Vitamin E is very good for skin. You can cut the capsule of vitamin E and mix it with the normal moisturiser that you use and massage your face gently for good results.
Facial Expression - Try to maintain a pleasing expression on your face so that your face muscles stay relaxed. Avoid frowning and eye brow rising as they may leave permanent lines on your face after sometime.
Natural Remedy - There are some natural remedies to keep your face wrinkle free. For example mix two tea spoon of honey, a pinch of turmeric powder with few drops of lemon and massage on your face. Leave it for 10 - 15 minutes and then wash away with normal water.
Remove Makeup - Avoid going to sleep with any cream on your face unless it is recommended for any specific reason. It is good to clean your face properly before you go to sleep.
Sleep on Your Back - It is believed that sleeping on sides cause sleep lines or wrinkles. So, try and avoid it as far as possible.
Well, ageing signs are definitely going to come sooner or later. You can do your best and avoid it as much as possible. Follow the simple ways and take care of your skin and mind your daily routine to get desired results.