1. What is a Hangover Anyway?
Not suprisingly, medical science is unable to provide a precise, equivocal answer to exactly what a hangover is. The best answer yet provided is that a hangover is a collection of symptoms produced by a variety of conditions that are the direct result of your choices the night before. Helpful, huh? Well, we’ll dig into what exactly these ‘conditions’ are and what we can do to eliminate or minimize them.
2. Hangover Symptoms and Causes
Ok, so a hangover is a collection of symptoms produced as a result of specific conditions in the body, right? Let us now take a look at the most common symptoms and what may be causing them.
Hangover Causes
* Thirst: This one’s a no-brainer. Alcohol causes dehydration. Dehydration causes thirst.
* Fatigue: When you saturate your body with alcohol, it must then devote a lot of vitamins, minerals, and energy into metabolizing it, sapping resources from normal functions and reducing the restfulness of sleep. Alcohol also drops your blood-sugar which will produce fatigue.
* Headaches: Often, headaches are associated with dehydration. Congeners are also believed to contribute to this. Congeners are chemicals produced during the manufacture of certain types of alcohol (Dark liquors have the highest concentrations).
* Nausea and Stomach Discomfort: Alcohol irritates your entire digestive tract. Not surprisingly it can leave you very sensitive the next morning.
There are more of course, but these are the most common ones. Keep reading for some tips on preventing them in the future followed by methods to get rid of a hangover when it’s too late for prevention.
3. Preventing a Hangover
First things first - NEVER take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or other painkillers before bed after you’ve been drinking. This places additional stress on your already stressed liver and can cause it to release even more toxins into your bloodstream. With that out of the way, let’s have a look at some commonly used methods of preventing a hangover.
Hangover Prevention
* Remember this old adage:
“Beer before liquor, never sicker;
liquor before beer, never fear.”
* Eat – Eat something hearty before or during your drinking session. This slows your alcohol absorption and provide some nutrients.
* liquorLimit your consumption of congeners – Darker liquors tend to contain more congeners then lighter and clear liquors. Congeners are chemicals produced during the fermentation process and are toxic to us humans.
* Stick to one type of drink – Don’t mix! If you start off by drinking Vodka, don’t change whisky or you run the risk of getting sick and suffering a bad hangover the next morning.
* Drink plenty of water – Drink one glass of water between each alcoholic drink to keep yourself hydrated. You’ll pee a lot, but you will feel much better in the long run for doing it. Drink a large glass of water before going to sleep too.
* Stay up – After you’re done partying, stay up a few hours until the alcohol starts wearing off. This will give you time to re-hydrate, get little real food in your stomach, and ‘expel’ much of the poison you’ve ingested, making your sleep higher quality.
* Alarm ClockSet your alarm clock – I know, I know… why would you want to get up early?!?! You want to get up early so you can go pee, take a multivitamin, and drink a biiig glass of water (some V8 is good too) – then go back to bed. This will vastly improve your chances of waking up without pain, and you’ll probably not even remember doing it.
Whenever you wake up with a bad hangover, it’s a good idea to take note of what you did the night before and not do it again. Common sense, right?
4. How to Cure a Hangover
So it’s too late for prevention and you’re reading this page through squinted eyes with a pounding headache hoping to find sweet hangover relief. Have no fear, we’ve collected some great hangover remedies here – take your pick and let us know how it works out. Also feel free to leave your own hangover cure using the form at the bottom of the page if it isn’t already here.
Hangover Cures
* Hair of the dog – Some folks advocate having a small alcoholic beverage soon after waking. While it is true that this will stop the pain – the relief is only temporary. As soon as the alcohol passes the hangover will be back.
* Re-hydrate – Start off the morning with a big glass of water, Pedialite or Gatorade.
* Eat something light – Eat something easy to digest like toast, crackers, or oatmeal. Foods that are touted for their properties as hangover cures are:
o Menudo
o Bananas
o Apples
o Miso Soup
o Honey (in tea or on toast)
o V8
o Pickles and/or pickle juice (yummmm)
o Green Tea
* Take a pain-reliever – Read the label carefully first, and make sure all alcohol is out of your system. Some recommended for curing a hangover are:
o Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
o Ibuprofen
o Alka-seltzer Morning Relief
o “Chaser”
* Take a multivitamin
* Shower, eat light, drink water, and go back to bed
* Go Jogging!Exercise! – Probably the last thing you want to do, but some mild exercise will get your heart and lymphatic system pumping, moving out waste products that have built up from the night before. This will increase your metabolism, release endorphins (natural pain-killers), and re-oxygenate your blood. Eat some carbs and protein afterwards.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
How to Get Rid of Hiccups
Hiccups are involuntary spasms of the diaphragm often accompanied by the familiar “hic” sound. Occasionally they manifest as louder and more embarrassing “huuuugggghhhh”s. Why do we hiccup? It’s a mystery.
Tips for Getting Rid of Hiccups
* Repeated swallowing works for mild cases. Do this by holding your breath and repeatedly swallowing as fast as you can, or by slowly drinking down a beverage with as many swallows as is possible. It’s important that you hold your breath for as many gulps as you can. Placing a napkin over a glass of water canl help moderate your speed.
* Plug your nose and ears then swallow 20 times as fast as possible.
* If you notice a friend has a case of hiccups, it is believed that your can ’scare’ them away. Sneak up on them and give ‘em a good jolt (Be careful though ;) ). What? They don’t have hiccups? Do it anyway!
* Relax, sit still and breathe in deep, slow, rhythmic breaths expanding and contracting your lungs completely.
* Distract yourself. Sing a song, go over your 7 times tables (7 x 1 = 7, 7 x 2 = 14, etc) until the hiccups are gone,
* Exhale completely and hold your breath for as long as possible.
* Squawk like a chicken while flapping your arms and bobbing your head as if you were pecking at something. Bugawk!
* Laugh. Think of something funny, or do something funny - see above.
* A spoon full of peanut butter makes the hiccups go awayEat a tablespoon of peanut butter.
* Stand on your head and drink small gulps of water from a sports bottle.
* Exaggerate your hiccups by inhaling right as you hiccup - this will result in a long and loud “huuuaaagggghhh” that’ll either be funny or embarrassing depending on your environment, but after 2-4 of these the hiccups should be gone.
* Take a shot of lemon juice.
* Let a teaspoon of sugar dissolve under your tongue.
* Think of the ugliest person you’ve ever seen. Now picture them naked, rolling naked down a hill or riding a bike and slathered in A-1 steak sauce.
* Eat some pickles.
* Think the alphabet backwards as fast as you can.
* Close your eyes, relax, still your mind and concentrate on nothingness until they’re gone.
Tips for Getting Rid of Hiccups
* Repeated swallowing works for mild cases. Do this by holding your breath and repeatedly swallowing as fast as you can, or by slowly drinking down a beverage with as many swallows as is possible. It’s important that you hold your breath for as many gulps as you can. Placing a napkin over a glass of water canl help moderate your speed.
* Plug your nose and ears then swallow 20 times as fast as possible.
* If you notice a friend has a case of hiccups, it is believed that your can ’scare’ them away. Sneak up on them and give ‘em a good jolt (Be careful though ;) ). What? They don’t have hiccups? Do it anyway!
* Relax, sit still and breathe in deep, slow, rhythmic breaths expanding and contracting your lungs completely.
* Distract yourself. Sing a song, go over your 7 times tables (7 x 1 = 7, 7 x 2 = 14, etc) until the hiccups are gone,
* Exhale completely and hold your breath for as long as possible.
* Squawk like a chicken while flapping your arms and bobbing your head as if you were pecking at something. Bugawk!
* Laugh. Think of something funny, or do something funny - see above.
* A spoon full of peanut butter makes the hiccups go awayEat a tablespoon of peanut butter.
* Stand on your head and drink small gulps of water from a sports bottle.
* Exaggerate your hiccups by inhaling right as you hiccup - this will result in a long and loud “huuuaaagggghhh” that’ll either be funny or embarrassing depending on your environment, but after 2-4 of these the hiccups should be gone.
* Take a shot of lemon juice.
* Let a teaspoon of sugar dissolve under your tongue.
* Think of the ugliest person you’ve ever seen. Now picture them naked, rolling naked down a hill or riding a bike and slathered in A-1 steak sauce.
* Eat some pickles.
* Think the alphabet backwards as fast as you can.
* Close your eyes, relax, still your mind and concentrate on nothingness until they’re gone.
What is Athlete’s Foot & how to get rid of it ?
1. What is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis is a fungal infection which most commonly occurs in the feet. The most common fungi that cause this embarrassing condition are called Trichophyton, Epidermophyton floccosum, and Microsporum. These parasitic fungi thrive in dark, warm, moist environments like those found inside our shoes and between our toes.
Athlete’s foot symptoms are typically:
* Dry, itchy skin
* Scaling (Hard, white patches of skin that often crack creating the appearance of scales.)
* Painful inflammation
* Blisters
2. How does athlete's foot spread ?
Athlete’s foot is spread by contact with materials on which the fungus is present such as floors, footwear and bedding. It can also stay alive on these surfaces for several days. This means you can contract it simply by walking barefoot through a public shower or locker room. Athlete’s foot is not limited to just the feet, either – it can be spread to the groin (a.k.a. jock itch) and underarms so don’t scratch, and if you do touch an infected area, immediately wash your hands.
The most common causes of athlete’s foot are:
Sharing socks or shoes with others
Since athlete’s foot is a foot fungus, it stands to reason that it can be spread by sharing the footwear of someone who is infected. The insides of shoes and socks are dark, warm, and often moist – optimal growth conditions for this hearty fungus. Using a foot powder in your socks and shoes can help reduce moisture.
Going barefoot in showers and locker rooms
Many schools have experienced outbreaks of athlete’s foot due to the fungus being left behind on shower room and locker room floors. If you have to remove your footwear in these areas, thoroughly wash and dry your feet before putting your shoes back on – or better yet, invest in a pair of sandals to keep your feet from contacting these common surfaces in the first place.
Skin on skin contact
If you come into direct contact with an infected area of someone else’s body, you will likely contract the fungus. If this happens, immediately wash yourself, and if you want to be extremely careful, apply an anti-fungal cream or spray and keep the area as dry as possible.
3. How to Prevent Athlete’s Foot
There are many ways which you can avoid athlete’s foot:
Wash your feet
Wash you feet whenever after have come into contact with any common surface, as well as at least once a day.
Keep your feet dry
Foot fungus thrives in moist environments, meaning the dryer your feet, the less hospitable they become as a home for athlete’s foot. Dry your feet completely after every shower, paying particular attention to the spaces between your toes. You can also use foot powders to help keep them dry as you go about the day’s business.
Go barefoot around the house
The open air will keep your feet dry and inhospitable to foot fungus. Just remember, barefoot outside and around the house is one thing, but a locker room is a whole other ball game.
Choose the right footwear
Not all socks and shoes are equal. To keep your feet as dry as you can opt for socks and shoes made out of breathable materials like cotton, wool and some leathers. Any synthetic materials and you are much more likely to sweat and make a happy home for this kind of foot fungus.
Wear sandals
These types of open footwear don’t trap moisture. This allows good air circulation and helps to keep the feet much drier throughout the day while still offering protection from potentially infected surfaces.
Never wear the same socks twice
Change your socks or pantyhose every day and wash them in hot water between uses. If you have more than one pair of shoes you should try wearing a different pair each day. This will allow the last-used pair to completely dry out before their next use.
4. Getting Rid of Athlete’s Foot
If you prolong getting your foot fungus treated it can spread to your toenails and once it has gotten under there you will have a hard time fighting it off. If this happens, go see your doctor and get a prescription – in rare cases you may even need to get your toenails removed. I don’t have to tell you that this is not the kind of thing you want to go through, ever – so go see your doc!
Treatments for athlete’s foot:
Topical anti-fungal creams, sprays and liquids
These are put directly onto the infected skin several times a day. When you choose a product, follow the instructions that come with it. Most topical antifungal solutions contain miconazole, itraconazole, or terbinafine and can take up to 2 months to completely cure the infection, so continue using them for at least a few weeks after your itching and scaling has stopped. Common brands include Lamasil and Lotrimin.
Anti-fungal powders
Foot powders are a smart choice for getting your shoes and socks fungus free. Thoroughly apply the powders directly into your shoes and socks making sure you completely cover the inside - including the toes. Powders can also be rubbed directly into the skin, which is a very effective method of treatment as it not only contains a fungicide, but will help keep your skin dry as well. Foot powders can be used in conjunction with foot fungus sprays, creams and liquids. Athlete’s foot treatment powders that you purchase for your foot fungus should contain clotrimazole, itraconazole, or miconazole. Commonly used brands include Lamasil, Lotrimin, CVS, and Gold Bond foot powder.
Aluminum acetate drying solutions
Burrow’s solution and Domeboro’s solution both contain aluminum acetate and are used in a liquid solution that you soak your feet in. Aluminum acetate will reduce the moisture levels of your feet. Yay.
Home Remedies for Athlete’s Foot
Following are some home remedies that have been passed on to me to cure athlete’s foot naturally. Try them out and see what works for you. If you know of one this isn’t here, please share it using the form at the bottom of this page.
* Bleach and water soak – Mix a small amount of bleach in a larger quantity of water and soak your feet for 5-10 minutes every day.
* Topical Tea Tree Oil – Massage diluted tea tree oil into your infected feet, or add a few drops to a foot bath and soak them.
* Soak your feet in mouthwash – Sounds odd, but many people recommend this remedy for foot fungus.
* Pee on your feet – This may be gross, but human urine contains urea, which is already used in many over-the-counter athlete’s foot remedies. So, if you’re brave, pee on your feet when you shower in the morning or evening and let us know how it works.
5. See your doctor
If your athlete’s foot just won’t go away, you should consult your doctor as he will be able to identify the exact cause and prescribe much stronger medicines for treatment. Do this before it becomes severe.
Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis is a fungal infection which most commonly occurs in the feet. The most common fungi that cause this embarrassing condition are called Trichophyton, Epidermophyton floccosum, and Microsporum. These parasitic fungi thrive in dark, warm, moist environments like those found inside our shoes and between our toes.
Athlete’s foot symptoms are typically:
* Dry, itchy skin
* Scaling (Hard, white patches of skin that often crack creating the appearance of scales.)
* Painful inflammation
* Blisters
2. How does athlete's foot spread ?
Athlete’s foot is spread by contact with materials on which the fungus is present such as floors, footwear and bedding. It can also stay alive on these surfaces for several days. This means you can contract it simply by walking barefoot through a public shower or locker room. Athlete’s foot is not limited to just the feet, either – it can be spread to the groin (a.k.a. jock itch) and underarms so don’t scratch, and if you do touch an infected area, immediately wash your hands.
The most common causes of athlete’s foot are:
Sharing socks or shoes with others
Since athlete’s foot is a foot fungus, it stands to reason that it can be spread by sharing the footwear of someone who is infected. The insides of shoes and socks are dark, warm, and often moist – optimal growth conditions for this hearty fungus. Using a foot powder in your socks and shoes can help reduce moisture.
Going barefoot in showers and locker rooms
Many schools have experienced outbreaks of athlete’s foot due to the fungus being left behind on shower room and locker room floors. If you have to remove your footwear in these areas, thoroughly wash and dry your feet before putting your shoes back on – or better yet, invest in a pair of sandals to keep your feet from contacting these common surfaces in the first place.
Skin on skin contact
If you come into direct contact with an infected area of someone else’s body, you will likely contract the fungus. If this happens, immediately wash yourself, and if you want to be extremely careful, apply an anti-fungal cream or spray and keep the area as dry as possible.
3. How to Prevent Athlete’s Foot
There are many ways which you can avoid athlete’s foot:
Wash your feet
Wash you feet whenever after have come into contact with any common surface, as well as at least once a day.
Keep your feet dry
Foot fungus thrives in moist environments, meaning the dryer your feet, the less hospitable they become as a home for athlete’s foot. Dry your feet completely after every shower, paying particular attention to the spaces between your toes. You can also use foot powders to help keep them dry as you go about the day’s business.
Go barefoot around the house
The open air will keep your feet dry and inhospitable to foot fungus. Just remember, barefoot outside and around the house is one thing, but a locker room is a whole other ball game.
Choose the right footwear
Not all socks and shoes are equal. To keep your feet as dry as you can opt for socks and shoes made out of breathable materials like cotton, wool and some leathers. Any synthetic materials and you are much more likely to sweat and make a happy home for this kind of foot fungus.
Wear sandals
These types of open footwear don’t trap moisture. This allows good air circulation and helps to keep the feet much drier throughout the day while still offering protection from potentially infected surfaces.
Never wear the same socks twice
Change your socks or pantyhose every day and wash them in hot water between uses. If you have more than one pair of shoes you should try wearing a different pair each day. This will allow the last-used pair to completely dry out before their next use.
4. Getting Rid of Athlete’s Foot
If you prolong getting your foot fungus treated it can spread to your toenails and once it has gotten under there you will have a hard time fighting it off. If this happens, go see your doctor and get a prescription – in rare cases you may even need to get your toenails removed. I don’t have to tell you that this is not the kind of thing you want to go through, ever – so go see your doc!
Treatments for athlete’s foot:
Topical anti-fungal creams, sprays and liquids
These are put directly onto the infected skin several times a day. When you choose a product, follow the instructions that come with it. Most topical antifungal solutions contain miconazole, itraconazole, or terbinafine and can take up to 2 months to completely cure the infection, so continue using them for at least a few weeks after your itching and scaling has stopped. Common brands include Lamasil and Lotrimin.
Anti-fungal powders
Foot powders are a smart choice for getting your shoes and socks fungus free. Thoroughly apply the powders directly into your shoes and socks making sure you completely cover the inside - including the toes. Powders can also be rubbed directly into the skin, which is a very effective method of treatment as it not only contains a fungicide, but will help keep your skin dry as well. Foot powders can be used in conjunction with foot fungus sprays, creams and liquids. Athlete’s foot treatment powders that you purchase for your foot fungus should contain clotrimazole, itraconazole, or miconazole. Commonly used brands include Lamasil, Lotrimin, CVS, and Gold Bond foot powder.
Aluminum acetate drying solutions
Burrow’s solution and Domeboro’s solution both contain aluminum acetate and are used in a liquid solution that you soak your feet in. Aluminum acetate will reduce the moisture levels of your feet. Yay.
Home Remedies for Athlete’s Foot
Following are some home remedies that have been passed on to me to cure athlete’s foot naturally. Try them out and see what works for you. If you know of one this isn’t here, please share it using the form at the bottom of this page.
* Bleach and water soak – Mix a small amount of bleach in a larger quantity of water and soak your feet for 5-10 minutes every day.
* Topical Tea Tree Oil – Massage diluted tea tree oil into your infected feet, or add a few drops to a foot bath and soak them.
* Soak your feet in mouthwash – Sounds odd, but many people recommend this remedy for foot fungus.
* Pee on your feet – This may be gross, but human urine contains urea, which is already used in many over-the-counter athlete’s foot remedies. So, if you’re brave, pee on your feet when you shower in the morning or evening and let us know how it works.
5. See your doctor
If your athlete’s foot just won’t go away, you should consult your doctor as he will be able to identify the exact cause and prescribe much stronger medicines for treatment. Do this before it becomes severe.
How to get rid of stretch marks ?
Stretch marks, as the name suggests, are crack like lines that form on the skin. When skin is tight or lagging, the weight or pressure causes it to stretch further than it should. The connective tissue becomes damaged, and small tears form the lines we are referring to.
Who do they Affect?
Men and women both suffer from them, and most women get some after pregnancy. The most common reason for stretch marks appearing is after a person either loses weight or puts weight on over a short time. As all women do this when pregnant, a high percentage will have them. The areas affected most often are the breasts, hips, arms, thighs and abdomen.
Many people who have them become ashamed of their bodies. They are reluctant to wear swimmers or anything that reveals the lines. The problem with stretch marks is that you usually don't know they are forming until it's too late, and you suddenly have them.
Hormones can also affect the likelihood of stretch marks. This is why some teenagers will discover them during puberty, especially if their weight has fluctuated. Certain pharmaceuticals can contribute as well, such as steroids or the pill, bad diet or anxiety disorders.
Over the Counter Products
You can purchase any number of products for helping with your problem. Some stretch marks are light in color and easier to treat, where others can be pink, red or even purple and very raised and lumpy. The latter is much harder to repair, so do your research before handing over a fortune. There are people who swear by some of the brands on the market today, and some are guaranteed to at least make them fade. There are also excellent creams to maintain skin elasticity for preventing them in the first place. Avoid caffeine and keep up the water intake, ensuring you drink at least eight glasses a day. You need a diet full of adequate vitamins and minerals, and exercise regularly to keep your skin toned. If you want to lose weight, you are better off doing it gradually.
Treatment Options
If you treat your stretch marks sooner rather than later, your chances of success are much higher. There are creams, beauty treatments, scrubs and laser therapy which all have their fans. Retin-A is one that can be used on darker lines with positive results, as long as they haven't been there for more than twelve months. There is also microderm abrasion, but it can hurt and is expensive. Although Lasers are very efficient, you can spend thousands on treatments and they can be such agony some people need anesthesia to get through.
There really are no guaranteed treatments for stretch marks. With the right product used the right way, along with diet, exercise and hydration, you should be able to make them fade. With so many people hiding theirs, you certainly shouldn't be ashamed. They are a natural part of life, so look at them more like signs of experience and maturity.
Do Treatments Work?
You can purchase any number of products for helping with your stretch mark problem. Some are light in color and easier to treat, where others can be pink, red or even purple and very raised and lumpy. The latter is much harder to repair, and laser treatment may be the only option. There are people who swear by some of the treatments on the market, and some are guaranteed to at least make them fade. There are also excellent creams to maintain skin elasticity for preventing them in the first place.
Summary:
People who drop pounds rapidly or vice versa will often get stretch marks. These marks are like cracks made from scar tissue, and are actually signs of the connective skin tissue having been damaged. There are many treatments on the market you can try, some more affordable than others.
Who do they Affect?
Men and women both suffer from them, and most women get some after pregnancy. The most common reason for stretch marks appearing is after a person either loses weight or puts weight on over a short time. As all women do this when pregnant, a high percentage will have them. The areas affected most often are the breasts, hips, arms, thighs and abdomen.
Many people who have them become ashamed of their bodies. They are reluctant to wear swimmers or anything that reveals the lines. The problem with stretch marks is that you usually don't know they are forming until it's too late, and you suddenly have them.
Hormones can also affect the likelihood of stretch marks. This is why some teenagers will discover them during puberty, especially if their weight has fluctuated. Certain pharmaceuticals can contribute as well, such as steroids or the pill, bad diet or anxiety disorders.
Over the Counter Products
You can purchase any number of products for helping with your problem. Some stretch marks are light in color and easier to treat, where others can be pink, red or even purple and very raised and lumpy. The latter is much harder to repair, so do your research before handing over a fortune. There are people who swear by some of the brands on the market today, and some are guaranteed to at least make them fade. There are also excellent creams to maintain skin elasticity for preventing them in the first place. Avoid caffeine and keep up the water intake, ensuring you drink at least eight glasses a day. You need a diet full of adequate vitamins and minerals, and exercise regularly to keep your skin toned. If you want to lose weight, you are better off doing it gradually.
Treatment Options
If you treat your stretch marks sooner rather than later, your chances of success are much higher. There are creams, beauty treatments, scrubs and laser therapy which all have their fans. Retin-A is one that can be used on darker lines with positive results, as long as they haven't been there for more than twelve months. There is also microderm abrasion, but it can hurt and is expensive. Although Lasers are very efficient, you can spend thousands on treatments and they can be such agony some people need anesthesia to get through.
There really are no guaranteed treatments for stretch marks. With the right product used the right way, along with diet, exercise and hydration, you should be able to make them fade. With so many people hiding theirs, you certainly shouldn't be ashamed. They are a natural part of life, so look at them more like signs of experience and maturity.
Do Treatments Work?
You can purchase any number of products for helping with your stretch mark problem. Some are light in color and easier to treat, where others can be pink, red or even purple and very raised and lumpy. The latter is much harder to repair, and laser treatment may be the only option. There are people who swear by some of the treatments on the market, and some are guaranteed to at least make them fade. There are also excellent creams to maintain skin elasticity for preventing them in the first place.
Summary:
People who drop pounds rapidly or vice versa will often get stretch marks. These marks are like cracks made from scar tissue, and are actually signs of the connective skin tissue having been damaged. There are many treatments on the market you can try, some more affordable than others.
What is blackhead & how to get rid of it ?
Let’s face it! Blackhead removal seems to be the most difficult part of maintaining healthy skin. There’s no easy way to get rid of these annoying blemishes. However, there are some helpful tips to prevent and get rid of blackheads when necessary.
What is a Blackhead?
Blackheads are technically referred to as open comedones. These bumps are often indented and may look like tiny plugs. The confusion over blackheads and whiteheads has to do with the fact that blackheads accompany oily skin where whiteheads could be present on oily or dry skin.
What Causes Blackheads?
A blackhead is caused by excess oil that has clogged a pore. This clog occurs when the built-up oil is unable to flow to the surface of the skin due to a misshapen or impaired pore and dead skin cells blocking the way. When the pore is open, the oil is exposed to oxygen, which reacts and turns it a dark color, resulting in a black head.
* Hormones are the leading cause of increased oil production. An increase in the male hormones, androgens, will increase the natural production of oil in your skin causing more oil to build up in the pores, often times resulting in the appearance of black heads.
* The next big culprit in blackhead formation is the use of skin-care products or make-up. These products will mix with your body’s natural oil and add to the build-up that can block pores.
* Whitehead and blackhead pimple formation seems to be a predisposed condition that is aggravated or increased when combined with the above toxins.
Blackhead Prevention
There are many things that you can do to prevent blackheads from appearing on your face. Most involve cleansing and some require the use of medications.
* Avoid using creamy, greasy, and thick (emollient) products. This alone will greatly lessen your chances of sprouting blackheads.
* Use a gentle and water-soluble cleanser.
* DO NOT use bar soap!!! The ingredients that hold soap in a bar form can clog the pores in your skin. They can also cause skin cells to flake off prematurely and clog the pores. If you have dry skin you will need to use a cleanser that has a bit of moisturizer in it, but be careful! The excess moisturizers can cause an increase in oil on your skin.
* Exfoliate to eliminate dead skin cells. If there are no skin cells to clog the pores, the natural oil is able to flow through freely. Exfoliation also removes the built up dead cells from inside the pores that cause them to become misshapen and more-easily clogged. Using an exfoliant that contains 1% or 2% beta hydroxy acids (BHA or Salicylic Acid) will penetrate the lining of the pore. If you are unable to use BHAs, you could use products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), however these acids are only good for surface exfoliation because they do not penetrate the pore lining.
* Absorb excess oil. If you have oily skin, try using a clay mask that does not contain mint, peppermint or other irritating ingredients. This will absorb the oil that may clog the poor. If you have dry skin, this is not necessary because pimples on dry skin are caused by oil inside the pore, not on the surface of the skin. Also, oil-absorbing papers may help to reduce the oil in your pores.
* Wash your faceVisit your dermatologist. Retinoids, which are a form of Vitamin A, can help regulate the pore shape which will keep oil flowing normally. The most common retinoids are tretinoin and adapalene, found in prescriptions such as Avita, Renova, Retin-A, Tazorac, and Differin.
* Other medications. Hormone blockers and low-dose birth control pills can lower levels of androgens (the male hormone) and Accutane should be discussed with your physician in severe cases of oily skin and breakouts.
Blackhead Removal
Though the best way to remove blackheads is an area of contention, the most common method for getting rid of blackheads is to gently squeeze them. Removing the “stuff” inside of the blackhead helps the skin because you are relieving the pressure which causes the damage. We know it can be nearly impossible to leave a blemish alone so here are some tips for gentle blackhead removal:
1. Use a mild scrub or exfoliant to remove any dead cells and expose the blackhead.
2. Pat your face dry.
3. Place a slightly warm compress on your face for approximately 10-15 minutes in order to soften the blackhead, making it easier to remove.
4. Pat your face dry again.
5. Place a piece of tissue on the tip of each finger to avoid slipping, which could tear the skin and cause further damage.
6. Gently apply even pressure to both sides of the blackhead by pushing down, then up around the blemish. You’re trying to apply the pressure from *underneath* the blackhead.
Only attempt this once or twice. If it does not “pop”, you may bruise the skin, make the blackhead worse, and could cause scarring.
What is a Blackhead?
Blackheads are technically referred to as open comedones. These bumps are often indented and may look like tiny plugs. The confusion over blackheads and whiteheads has to do with the fact that blackheads accompany oily skin where whiteheads could be present on oily or dry skin.
What Causes Blackheads?
A blackhead is caused by excess oil that has clogged a pore. This clog occurs when the built-up oil is unable to flow to the surface of the skin due to a misshapen or impaired pore and dead skin cells blocking the way. When the pore is open, the oil is exposed to oxygen, which reacts and turns it a dark color, resulting in a black head.
* Hormones are the leading cause of increased oil production. An increase in the male hormones, androgens, will increase the natural production of oil in your skin causing more oil to build up in the pores, often times resulting in the appearance of black heads.
* The next big culprit in blackhead formation is the use of skin-care products or make-up. These products will mix with your body’s natural oil and add to the build-up that can block pores.
* Whitehead and blackhead pimple formation seems to be a predisposed condition that is aggravated or increased when combined with the above toxins.
Blackhead Prevention
There are many things that you can do to prevent blackheads from appearing on your face. Most involve cleansing and some require the use of medications.
* Avoid using creamy, greasy, and thick (emollient) products. This alone will greatly lessen your chances of sprouting blackheads.
* Use a gentle and water-soluble cleanser.
* DO NOT use bar soap!!! The ingredients that hold soap in a bar form can clog the pores in your skin. They can also cause skin cells to flake off prematurely and clog the pores. If you have dry skin you will need to use a cleanser that has a bit of moisturizer in it, but be careful! The excess moisturizers can cause an increase in oil on your skin.
* Exfoliate to eliminate dead skin cells. If there are no skin cells to clog the pores, the natural oil is able to flow through freely. Exfoliation also removes the built up dead cells from inside the pores that cause them to become misshapen and more-easily clogged. Using an exfoliant that contains 1% or 2% beta hydroxy acids (BHA or Salicylic Acid) will penetrate the lining of the pore. If you are unable to use BHAs, you could use products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), however these acids are only good for surface exfoliation because they do not penetrate the pore lining.
* Absorb excess oil. If you have oily skin, try using a clay mask that does not contain mint, peppermint or other irritating ingredients. This will absorb the oil that may clog the poor. If you have dry skin, this is not necessary because pimples on dry skin are caused by oil inside the pore, not on the surface of the skin. Also, oil-absorbing papers may help to reduce the oil in your pores.
* Wash your faceVisit your dermatologist. Retinoids, which are a form of Vitamin A, can help regulate the pore shape which will keep oil flowing normally. The most common retinoids are tretinoin and adapalene, found in prescriptions such as Avita, Renova, Retin-A, Tazorac, and Differin.
* Other medications. Hormone blockers and low-dose birth control pills can lower levels of androgens (the male hormone) and Accutane should be discussed with your physician in severe cases of oily skin and breakouts.
Blackhead Removal
Though the best way to remove blackheads is an area of contention, the most common method for getting rid of blackheads is to gently squeeze them. Removing the “stuff” inside of the blackhead helps the skin because you are relieving the pressure which causes the damage. We know it can be nearly impossible to leave a blemish alone so here are some tips for gentle blackhead removal:
1. Use a mild scrub or exfoliant to remove any dead cells and expose the blackhead.
2. Pat your face dry.
3. Place a slightly warm compress on your face for approximately 10-15 minutes in order to soften the blackhead, making it easier to remove.
4. Pat your face dry again.
5. Place a piece of tissue on the tip of each finger to avoid slipping, which could tear the skin and cause further damage.
6. Gently apply even pressure to both sides of the blackhead by pushing down, then up around the blemish. You’re trying to apply the pressure from *underneath* the blackhead.
Only attempt this once or twice. If it does not “pop”, you may bruise the skin, make the blackhead worse, and could cause scarring.
WORDS TO GET WELL WITH
Fall seven times, stand up eight. Japanese proverb.
Angels can fly because they take themselves lightly. G.K. Chesterton
When pain strikes, we often ask the wrong questions, such as, Why me? The right questions are, What can I learn from this? What can I do about it? What can I accomplish in spite of it? Norman Vincent Peale
Patience is enjoying the journey. It's not climbing the mountain to get to the top; it's climbing the mountain to enjoy the climb. Enjoy the process of your own life. John-Roger
Have patience with all things, but mostly with yourself. Do not lose courage considering your own imperfections, but instantly begin remedying them. Every day begin the task anew. SaintFrancis de Sales
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Chinese proverb
It's hard to beat a person who never gives up. Babe Ruth
Trust in God, but tie your camel to a tree. Arab proverb.
"Success" comes before "work" only in the dictionary. Anonymous
A needle that pierces may carry a thread that binds. James Hastings
An elephant can only be eaten one bite at a time. Proverb
You cannot prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair. Chinese proverb
To get results, decide to have fun. Fun creates enjoyment, which invites participation, which focuses attention, which expands awareness, which promotes insight, which generates knowledge, which facilitates action. And action gets results. Oswald Shallow
Every day is a gift. Treat it kindly. Share it with joy. Anonymous
Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. John Wooden
Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished. If you're alive, it isn't. Richard Bach
No man is useless while he has a friend. Robert Louis Stevenson
Life is like the car pool lane. The only way to get to your destination quickly is to take some people with you. Peter Ward
Angels can fly because they take themselves lightly. G.K. Chesterton
When pain strikes, we often ask the wrong questions, such as, Why me? The right questions are, What can I learn from this? What can I do about it? What can I accomplish in spite of it? Norman Vincent Peale
Patience is enjoying the journey. It's not climbing the mountain to get to the top; it's climbing the mountain to enjoy the climb. Enjoy the process of your own life. John-Roger
Have patience with all things, but mostly with yourself. Do not lose courage considering your own imperfections, but instantly begin remedying them. Every day begin the task anew. SaintFrancis de Sales
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Chinese proverb
It's hard to beat a person who never gives up. Babe Ruth
Trust in God, but tie your camel to a tree. Arab proverb.
"Success" comes before "work" only in the dictionary. Anonymous
A needle that pierces may carry a thread that binds. James Hastings
An elephant can only be eaten one bite at a time. Proverb
You cannot prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair. Chinese proverb
To get results, decide to have fun. Fun creates enjoyment, which invites participation, which focuses attention, which expands awareness, which promotes insight, which generates knowledge, which facilitates action. And action gets results. Oswald Shallow
Every day is a gift. Treat it kindly. Share it with joy. Anonymous
Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. John Wooden
Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished. If you're alive, it isn't. Richard Bach
No man is useless while he has a friend. Robert Louis Stevenson
Life is like the car pool lane. The only way to get to your destination quickly is to take some people with you. Peter Ward
How to get rid of spots ?
1. Do NOT touch your face with your hands
Throughout the day, your hands come in contact with the world around you. Your hands touch surfaces like the phone, the computer keyboards, your bag, the table and basically everything around you. Picking up germs as you go along. Touching your face with your hands before washing them is a big No No. The last thing you want is to introduce more bacteria to your skin, leading to more pimples.
2. Keep your hair off your face
Oily skin usually means oily hair. You have enough natural oil on your face. You do not need to add more oil and hair care products to your skin, which is what happens when your hair covers any part of your face. If you notice more pimples on your forehead, beneath your fringe, or along the sides of your face where your hair might brush against, your hair could be the culprit. You could keep your hair off your face by wearing it in a pony tail, or using hair clips to hold it off your face.
3. Wash your face 3 times everyday with a cleanser that is meant for skin with acne
That's what a doctor told me. Another doctor told me that the problem with many people that have pimples is that they use cleansers that are too rich for the face. That doctor recommended a soap and water regime. Another recommended an cleanser that was meant for acne.
4. Stick to skin care that works for your skin
What works on your best friend may not necessarily work on you. Especially if her skin is dry and your is oily. The latest richest skincare products might make her look radiant but they could trigger a nasty acne outbreak in your skin.
5. Take a break
Stress tends to trigger acne outbreaks. Does your skin act up more before an exam or a stressful event? Learn to relax. Take a long bath. Watch a funny movie. Read a favourite magazine. Talk it out with a best pal. Do whatever works for you to ease the stress
6. Get a good night's sleep every night
Your body needs sleep. Without enough sleep, even your skin acts up. Try to stop all work a few hours before bed time. That is actually the last resort. Better ways would be to exercise in the day so you can sleep better at night.
7. Avoid using pressed powder to cut down the sheen
My friend's friend used a pressed powder compact to hide her acne. Instead, the more she used it the worse it got. Just think. By mid day, your skin gets oily. You take out the powder compact, and use that powder puff to apply pressed powder on your face. Now, your face would already have dirt, bacteria and oil on it. Pat your face with that powder puff and now that puff picks up the dirt, bacteria and oil. You put it back into the compact. The bacteria happily breeds in there. Then you take out the compact again and pat more powder, mixed with oil, dirt and bacteria onto your face, picking up more gunk, putting in more gunk into your compact. The cycle goes on. A better bet would be to use to blot off the excess oil instead. Then you can throw the paper away after use.
8. Do not let bacteria breed happily in your make up tools
Wash all your make up brushes regularly, with soap and water. Then dry them completely before you keep them.
Throughout the day, your hands come in contact with the world around you. Your hands touch surfaces like the phone, the computer keyboards, your bag, the table and basically everything around you. Picking up germs as you go along. Touching your face with your hands before washing them is a big No No. The last thing you want is to introduce more bacteria to your skin, leading to more pimples.
2. Keep your hair off your face
Oily skin usually means oily hair. You have enough natural oil on your face. You do not need to add more oil and hair care products to your skin, which is what happens when your hair covers any part of your face. If you notice more pimples on your forehead, beneath your fringe, or along the sides of your face where your hair might brush against, your hair could be the culprit. You could keep your hair off your face by wearing it in a pony tail, or using hair clips to hold it off your face.
3. Wash your face 3 times everyday with a cleanser that is meant for skin with acne
That's what a doctor told me. Another doctor told me that the problem with many people that have pimples is that they use cleansers that are too rich for the face. That doctor recommended a soap and water regime. Another recommended an cleanser that was meant for acne.
4. Stick to skin care that works for your skin
What works on your best friend may not necessarily work on you. Especially if her skin is dry and your is oily. The latest richest skincare products might make her look radiant but they could trigger a nasty acne outbreak in your skin.
5. Take a break
Stress tends to trigger acne outbreaks. Does your skin act up more before an exam or a stressful event? Learn to relax. Take a long bath. Watch a funny movie. Read a favourite magazine. Talk it out with a best pal. Do whatever works for you to ease the stress
6. Get a good night's sleep every night
Your body needs sleep. Without enough sleep, even your skin acts up. Try to stop all work a few hours before bed time. That is actually the last resort. Better ways would be to exercise in the day so you can sleep better at night.
7. Avoid using pressed powder to cut down the sheen
My friend's friend used a pressed powder compact to hide her acne. Instead, the more she used it the worse it got. Just think. By mid day, your skin gets oily. You take out the powder compact, and use that powder puff to apply pressed powder on your face. Now, your face would already have dirt, bacteria and oil on it. Pat your face with that powder puff and now that puff picks up the dirt, bacteria and oil. You put it back into the compact. The bacteria happily breeds in there. Then you take out the compact again and pat more powder, mixed with oil, dirt and bacteria onto your face, picking up more gunk, putting in more gunk into your compact. The cycle goes on. A better bet would be to use to blot off the excess oil instead. Then you can throw the paper away after use.
8. Do not let bacteria breed happily in your make up tools
Wash all your make up brushes regularly, with soap and water. Then dry them completely before you keep them.
How do you get rid off cellulatis?
Cellulite, Is what you are needing to lose.
It is hard to do, you have to drop your cal intake drastically and exercise more, cardio and aerobic..
Cellulitis is a skin infection caused by bacteria. The infection extends into the tissues below the outer layer of skin (subcutaneous tissue). It most often develops anywhere the skin has been broken—often from a cut, burn, or an insect bite. The infection spreads from the skin to underlying tissues. In severe cases, it can spread quickly, within hours or days. Cellulitis is usually not contagious.
What causes cellulitis?
Cellulitis is caused by bacteria (usually Streptococcus or Staphylococcus). Some people are at risk for infection by other types of bacteria that result in cellulitis. At-risk groups include people with impaired immune systems and people who handle fish, meat, poultry, or soil without using gloves.
What increases my risk of cellulitis?
You may be at increased risk for cellulitis if you have:
A cut or injury to the skin, a surgical wound, a skin infection, a burn, or an animal or insect bite.
Skin lesions, such as ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, or a fungal infection such as athlete's foot. One study found that inflammation caused by toes rubbing together (toe-web intertrigo) is often a cause of cellulitis in the leg, and that treating this skin inflammation could prevent cellulitis. 1
Certain medical conditions, such as a circulatory disease, fluid buildup in the body tissues (edema), an impaired immune system, diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or being overweight.
Impaired lymphatic drainage or blood circulation after surgery, such as after having a breast removed (mastectomy) or having a vein removed from your leg for use in coronary bypass surgery. 2, 3
Liposuction, which is a procedure to remove excess fat tissue. 3
Injected illegal drugs under your skin. 3
What are the symptoms of cellulitis?
Cellulitis can cause tenderness, pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the infection. Fever and chills are also common. Cellulitis can occur anywhere on the body. In adults, it often occurs on the legs, face, or arms. In children, it commonly develops on the face or around the anus. Facial infection requires immediate medical attention; antibiotics can help prevent a potentially dangerous eye infection.
Are there complications of cellulitis?
Complications such as bacteremia (presence of bacteria in the blood) or sepsis (body's response to widespread infection) can develop if the bacteria that cause cellulitis spread quickly through the body. Facial cellulitis infection can spread to the brain (meningitis). Other complications, such as thrombophlebitis or, rarely, gangrene, can also develop. If you are an older adult, have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or peripheral arterial disease, or have an impaired immune system, you are more likely to have complications. Your chances of the cellulitis coming back may also be higher.
How is cellulitis treated?
Antibiotics are the main treatment for cellulitis and are usually successful in curing the infection. Antibiotics can be taken either by mouth or intravenously (IV). If you have certain medical conditions that increase your risk of getting cellulitis, you can take antibiotics after a skin injury to help prevent the infection. i think you mean cellulite,the other is a very bad skin infection cured only by antibiotics
It is hard to do, you have to drop your cal intake drastically and exercise more, cardio and aerobic..
Cellulitis is a skin infection caused by bacteria. The infection extends into the tissues below the outer layer of skin (subcutaneous tissue). It most often develops anywhere the skin has been broken—often from a cut, burn, or an insect bite. The infection spreads from the skin to underlying tissues. In severe cases, it can spread quickly, within hours or days. Cellulitis is usually not contagious.
What causes cellulitis?
Cellulitis is caused by bacteria (usually Streptococcus or Staphylococcus). Some people are at risk for infection by other types of bacteria that result in cellulitis. At-risk groups include people with impaired immune systems and people who handle fish, meat, poultry, or soil without using gloves.
What increases my risk of cellulitis?
You may be at increased risk for cellulitis if you have:
A cut or injury to the skin, a surgical wound, a skin infection, a burn, or an animal or insect bite.
Skin lesions, such as ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, or a fungal infection such as athlete's foot. One study found that inflammation caused by toes rubbing together (toe-web intertrigo) is often a cause of cellulitis in the leg, and that treating this skin inflammation could prevent cellulitis. 1
Certain medical conditions, such as a circulatory disease, fluid buildup in the body tissues (edema), an impaired immune system, diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or being overweight.
Impaired lymphatic drainage or blood circulation after surgery, such as after having a breast removed (mastectomy) or having a vein removed from your leg for use in coronary bypass surgery. 2, 3
Liposuction, which is a procedure to remove excess fat tissue. 3
Injected illegal drugs under your skin. 3
What are the symptoms of cellulitis?
Cellulitis can cause tenderness, pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the infection. Fever and chills are also common. Cellulitis can occur anywhere on the body. In adults, it often occurs on the legs, face, or arms. In children, it commonly develops on the face or around the anus. Facial infection requires immediate medical attention; antibiotics can help prevent a potentially dangerous eye infection.
Are there complications of cellulitis?
Complications such as bacteremia (presence of bacteria in the blood) or sepsis (body's response to widespread infection) can develop if the bacteria that cause cellulitis spread quickly through the body. Facial cellulitis infection can spread to the brain (meningitis). Other complications, such as thrombophlebitis or, rarely, gangrene, can also develop. If you are an older adult, have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or peripheral arterial disease, or have an impaired immune system, you are more likely to have complications. Your chances of the cellulitis coming back may also be higher.
How is cellulitis treated?
Antibiotics are the main treatment for cellulitis and are usually successful in curing the infection. Antibiotics can be taken either by mouth or intravenously (IV). If you have certain medical conditions that increase your risk of getting cellulitis, you can take antibiotics after a skin injury to help prevent the infection. i think you mean cellulite,the other is a very bad skin infection cured only by antibiotics
How to Get Rid of a Cold Without Using Medications
Get rid of a cold without taking medications.
Steps
1. If your fever is 103 or under don't take fever reducer (like Tylenol or ibuprofen) unless you have problems with seizures. The fever kills the virus and is actually beneficial.
2. Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons of honey (or more if you desire) and fresh squeezed juice from 1/2 lemon (this is helpful but not completely necessary) to a mug of water that has been boiled. Stir. Drink this three times per day.
3. If hungry, eat homemade chicken noodle soup with lots of fresh ground pepper. Also, eat spicy stuff (example; hot wings)
4. Lie around and watch movies as much as possible.
5. Suck on zinc lozenges, do not chew them. Take according to package instructions.
6. Take lots of baths and showers
7. Use a vaporizer or humidifier
8. Boil water on the stove all day to humidify the house. Be careful to not let all of the water evaporate out.
9. Use a microwaved rice sock on your head, ears, neck, or wherever you have muscle aches and discomforts.
Warnings
* Always ask you doctor if there is any medical reason you should not try these methods.
* Use caution when using vaporizers and boiling water around children, steam from vaporizers can get very hot and a child can pull a pan down from the stove.
Things You'll Need
* Apple cider vinegar, honey, lemon, water, homemade chicken noodle soup, spicy food, fresh ground pepper, movies, TV, something to lay on, blanket, zinc lozenges, bathtub, pan to boil water, vaporizer or humidifier, rice sock
Steps
1. If your fever is 103 or under don't take fever reducer (like Tylenol or ibuprofen) unless you have problems with seizures. The fever kills the virus and is actually beneficial.
2. Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons of honey (or more if you desire) and fresh squeezed juice from 1/2 lemon (this is helpful but not completely necessary) to a mug of water that has been boiled. Stir. Drink this three times per day.
3. If hungry, eat homemade chicken noodle soup with lots of fresh ground pepper. Also, eat spicy stuff (example; hot wings)
4. Lie around and watch movies as much as possible.
5. Suck on zinc lozenges, do not chew them. Take according to package instructions.
6. Take lots of baths and showers
7. Use a vaporizer or humidifier
8. Boil water on the stove all day to humidify the house. Be careful to not let all of the water evaporate out.
9. Use a microwaved rice sock on your head, ears, neck, or wherever you have muscle aches and discomforts.
Warnings
* Always ask you doctor if there is any medical reason you should not try these methods.
* Use caution when using vaporizers and boiling water around children, steam from vaporizers can get very hot and a child can pull a pan down from the stove.
Things You'll Need
* Apple cider vinegar, honey, lemon, water, homemade chicken noodle soup, spicy food, fresh ground pepper, movies, TV, something to lay on, blanket, zinc lozenges, bathtub, pan to boil water, vaporizer or humidifier, rice sock
How to get rid of pimples ?
Here are 4 Simple tips that could help you get rid of pimples.
1. Keep you hands off of your face. This is extremely important. Unless your hands have just been washed do not touch your face with them. All day, your hands come in contact with bacteria and oils that can and will spread your acne and make it worse. Don't sit there feeling them and popping them all day long.
2. Wash your face gently with Warm water and a soft wash cloth 2-3 times a day. Do not use a tough wash cloth. Once this is done you can then apply your exfoliant, which works well in the fight against acne.
3. Baby Powder can work well in drying out your pimples and getting rid of them. Remember to wash your face first though.
4. Eat plenty of nutritional foods that are high in fiber, iron, protein, and zinc. Also remember to drink plenty of water as It helps flush a lot of toxins out of your body.
1. Keep you hands off of your face. This is extremely important. Unless your hands have just been washed do not touch your face with them. All day, your hands come in contact with bacteria and oils that can and will spread your acne and make it worse. Don't sit there feeling them and popping them all day long.
2. Wash your face gently with Warm water and a soft wash cloth 2-3 times a day. Do not use a tough wash cloth. Once this is done you can then apply your exfoliant, which works well in the fight against acne.
3. Baby Powder can work well in drying out your pimples and getting rid of them. Remember to wash your face first though.
4. Eat plenty of nutritional foods that are high in fiber, iron, protein, and zinc. Also remember to drink plenty of water as It helps flush a lot of toxins out of your body.
How to check & manage high blood pressure ?
Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. It's defined in an adult as a blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg systolic pressure or greater than or equal to 90 mm Hg diastolic pressure. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg). High blood pressure directly increases the risk of coronary heart disease (which leads to heart attack) and stroke, kidney failure especially along with other risk factors.
Tips For How You Can Manage High Blood Pressure.
Check your blood pressure regularly: Of the people that have high blood pressure, 32% don't know they have it and are causing stress and strain on their heart without even realizing it. Your blood pressure tends to increase slightly with age, so it's a good idea to have your doctor check it at least once per year.
Reduce your sodium intake: Too much sodium (found in table salt) can aggravate high blood pressure by causing your body to retain excessive fluids. These fluids can make it harder for your heart to pump effectively and can irritate blood vessels that are already sensitive.
Limit cholesterol and fats: Too much dietary cholesterol and saturated fats can build up on the inner walls of blood vessels and cause strain on them. Limit your daily cholesterol to no more than 100 mg of cholesterol per 1,000 calories of food. Restrict saturated fats to no more than 10% of your daily calories. Follow food labels carefully and track your progress.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise of any form if done religiously helps lower blood pressure as well as raises levels of "protective" HDL cholesterol (the kind that carries artery-clogging cholesterol out of your blood). Just make sure you consult with you physician before you start an exercise program and don't overdo it, especially when you first start out.
Stop smoking: If you smoke, stop right now! Smoking both raises your blood pressure and causes higher levels of artery-clogging cholesterol.
Take prescribed medications: Finally, if your doctor prescribes medication, make sure you take it faithfully in addition to any dietary modifications and exercise programs recommended. Too often, people take medication irregularly or not at all, causing them to be right back in the high-risk category. If you experience side effects, don't stop taking your medication. Instead, notify your doctor who can recommend an alternate type of medicine.
Tips For How You Can Manage High Blood Pressure.
Check your blood pressure regularly: Of the people that have high blood pressure, 32% don't know they have it and are causing stress and strain on their heart without even realizing it. Your blood pressure tends to increase slightly with age, so it's a good idea to have your doctor check it at least once per year.
Reduce your sodium intake: Too much sodium (found in table salt) can aggravate high blood pressure by causing your body to retain excessive fluids. These fluids can make it harder for your heart to pump effectively and can irritate blood vessels that are already sensitive.
Limit cholesterol and fats: Too much dietary cholesterol and saturated fats can build up on the inner walls of blood vessels and cause strain on them. Limit your daily cholesterol to no more than 100 mg of cholesterol per 1,000 calories of food. Restrict saturated fats to no more than 10% of your daily calories. Follow food labels carefully and track your progress.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise of any form if done religiously helps lower blood pressure as well as raises levels of "protective" HDL cholesterol (the kind that carries artery-clogging cholesterol out of your blood). Just make sure you consult with you physician before you start an exercise program and don't overdo it, especially when you first start out.
Stop smoking: If you smoke, stop right now! Smoking both raises your blood pressure and causes higher levels of artery-clogging cholesterol.
Take prescribed medications: Finally, if your doctor prescribes medication, make sure you take it faithfully in addition to any dietary modifications and exercise programs recommended. Too often, people take medication irregularly or not at all, causing them to be right back in the high-risk category. If you experience side effects, don't stop taking your medication. Instead, notify your doctor who can recommend an alternate type of medicine.
How to get rid of asthma ?
Usually, you don’t even notice when you are breathing. Air that passes through your nose gets cleansed by the tiny hair, moves into your windpipe and then branches into your bronchial tubes before getting distributed into the lungs. During an asthma attack, the muscles surrounding the bronchial tubes tighten up and thus make you gasp for air. This muscle constriction (tightening) usually begins with a irritant such as a virus, fungus or bacteria that can come from dust, environmental pollutants, feathers, pets, food additives, tobacco smoke, chemicals etc. These irritants stimulate inflammatory responses in the body, which are responsible for the asthma attacks. Although a few people may be hereditarily prone to asthma, experts feel that environmental pollution is the main cause.
Nutrition To The Rescue:
Eating correctly can help reduce the frequency of attacks. No amount of medications can banish asthma completely without nutritional support. Although nutrition is not the answer to asthma, but it forms the cornerstone for its treatment.
Diet:
A diet plan for patients suffering with asthma should incorporate the following things:
* Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, pulses and brown rice are helpful.
* Your diet should be moderately low fat, preferably vegetarian.
* Go slow on red meats and dairy products.
* Garlic and onion contain quercetin that reduces the inflammation and mucus.
* Ginger juice taken with honey in hot water also helps to reduce mucus formation and reduces frequency of attacks.
* Wheat grass juice helps the body to get rid of toxins and mucus.
* Avoid cold stuff like ice-creams, soft drinks and cold sherbets. The bronchial tubes may go into spasm.
* Fasting for one day in a week on raw fruits and vegetables will also help the body to get rid of toxins and reduce mucus. Besides raw fruits and vegetables are loaded with phytochemicals (Plant chemicals) that work in mysterious ways to keep us healthy.
Nutrients That Help:
Omega-3 Fats: These fatty acids are found in sea-food and flaxseeds. They work by reducing inflammatory responses, thereby preventing the blockages in the air passages. You can get Omega-3 fats by consuming flaxseeds (alsi) about 2 powdered tablespoons daily. Taking fish oil capsules also helps but if you are sensitive to asprin, check with your doctor before taking any fish oil capsules.
Magnesium: This mineral works as a bronchodialator and helps relax muscles. It opens up the air passages. Asthmatics can consume about 400 mg of magnesium aspartate daily.
Licorice: It helps in reducing inflammation and thus prevents frequent attacks.
Vitamin C: Helps to cut the risk of wheezing by reducing inflammation of the tissues surrounding the bronchial tubes. It also helps to reduce allergic reactions to dust, pollutants, pets and fumes. It helps boost immunity and prepares the body to fight the allergens, thus reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Natural Foods For Controlling Asthma:
Banana: A low-cost, delicious fruit that is available round the year. It has a high nutritional value with a rare combination of energy, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Banana is very useful for those who are allergic to certain substances and suffer from asthma. The reason underlying this is that banana is rich in those amino acids, which are anti-allergic to asthmatics.
Grapes: A high therapeutic value -- owing to their easy assimilation property - makes grapes beneficial for asthma. The fruit as well as its juice has a favourable influence in controlling the disease since being rich in moisture grapes increase the moisture of the lungs.
Orange: The most popular citrus fruit, orange is an effective remedy to control asthma. All you have to do is mix a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of honey in orange juice. Orange acts by its saline action on the lungs and protects from secondary infections.
Bitter Gourd: Karela or bitter gourd has excellent medical virtues and has been used as a folk medicine for respiratory disorders from ancient times. A teaspoon of root paste mixed with equal amount of tulsi leaf juice taken for a month acts as an excellent medicine for asthmatics.
Garlic: A food, herb, medicinal plant and a beauty accessory since time immemorial, garlic owes its medicinal values to a volatile oil called allyl sulphade, that has a marvellous therapeutic value. The garlic pod is peeled and boiled in 120 ml of pure malt vinegar. This mixture is strained and mixed with equal amounts of honey and then preserved. A teaspoon of this mixture taken every day helps to reduce the severity of the attacks.
Ginger: A teaspoon of fresh ginger juice mixed with a cup of fenugreek decoction acts as an expectorant in asthma.
Spinach: It is a rich source of essential amino acids, iron, vitamin A and folic acid. Infusion of fresh leaves prepared with fenugreek seeds and mixed with a pinch of ammonium chloride acts as an effective expectorant for treatment of asthma. It soothes the bronchioles and forms healthy tissue in the lungs, thereby increasing resistance against respiratory infections.
Safflower Seeds: These are beneficial in the treatment of bronchial asthma. Taking half a teaspoon of the seed powder along with a tablespoon of honey acts as an expectorant and reduces the spasms by liquefying the tenacious sputum.
Honey: This sweetner is rich in ethereal oil and alcohol that is beneficial in asthma. Inhaling the air that comes in contact with honey brings relief and the patient is able to breathe deeper and easier.
Thus by consuming a diet that is rich in essential nutrients you can effectively control your asthma.
Nutrition To The Rescue:
Eating correctly can help reduce the frequency of attacks. No amount of medications can banish asthma completely without nutritional support. Although nutrition is not the answer to asthma, but it forms the cornerstone for its treatment.
Diet:
A diet plan for patients suffering with asthma should incorporate the following things:
* Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, pulses and brown rice are helpful.
* Your diet should be moderately low fat, preferably vegetarian.
* Go slow on red meats and dairy products.
* Garlic and onion contain quercetin that reduces the inflammation and mucus.
* Ginger juice taken with honey in hot water also helps to reduce mucus formation and reduces frequency of attacks.
* Wheat grass juice helps the body to get rid of toxins and mucus.
* Avoid cold stuff like ice-creams, soft drinks and cold sherbets. The bronchial tubes may go into spasm.
* Fasting for one day in a week on raw fruits and vegetables will also help the body to get rid of toxins and reduce mucus. Besides raw fruits and vegetables are loaded with phytochemicals (Plant chemicals) that work in mysterious ways to keep us healthy.
Nutrients That Help:
Omega-3 Fats: These fatty acids are found in sea-food and flaxseeds. They work by reducing inflammatory responses, thereby preventing the blockages in the air passages. You can get Omega-3 fats by consuming flaxseeds (alsi) about 2 powdered tablespoons daily. Taking fish oil capsules also helps but if you are sensitive to asprin, check with your doctor before taking any fish oil capsules.
Magnesium: This mineral works as a bronchodialator and helps relax muscles. It opens up the air passages. Asthmatics can consume about 400 mg of magnesium aspartate daily.
Licorice: It helps in reducing inflammation and thus prevents frequent attacks.
Vitamin C: Helps to cut the risk of wheezing by reducing inflammation of the tissues surrounding the bronchial tubes. It also helps to reduce allergic reactions to dust, pollutants, pets and fumes. It helps boost immunity and prepares the body to fight the allergens, thus reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Natural Foods For Controlling Asthma:
Banana: A low-cost, delicious fruit that is available round the year. It has a high nutritional value with a rare combination of energy, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Banana is very useful for those who are allergic to certain substances and suffer from asthma. The reason underlying this is that banana is rich in those amino acids, which are anti-allergic to asthmatics.
Grapes: A high therapeutic value -- owing to their easy assimilation property - makes grapes beneficial for asthma. The fruit as well as its juice has a favourable influence in controlling the disease since being rich in moisture grapes increase the moisture of the lungs.
Orange: The most popular citrus fruit, orange is an effective remedy to control asthma. All you have to do is mix a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of honey in orange juice. Orange acts by its saline action on the lungs and protects from secondary infections.
Bitter Gourd: Karela or bitter gourd has excellent medical virtues and has been used as a folk medicine for respiratory disorders from ancient times. A teaspoon of root paste mixed with equal amount of tulsi leaf juice taken for a month acts as an excellent medicine for asthmatics.
Garlic: A food, herb, medicinal plant and a beauty accessory since time immemorial, garlic owes its medicinal values to a volatile oil called allyl sulphade, that has a marvellous therapeutic value. The garlic pod is peeled and boiled in 120 ml of pure malt vinegar. This mixture is strained and mixed with equal amounts of honey and then preserved. A teaspoon of this mixture taken every day helps to reduce the severity of the attacks.
Ginger: A teaspoon of fresh ginger juice mixed with a cup of fenugreek decoction acts as an expectorant in asthma.
Spinach: It is a rich source of essential amino acids, iron, vitamin A and folic acid. Infusion of fresh leaves prepared with fenugreek seeds and mixed with a pinch of ammonium chloride acts as an effective expectorant for treatment of asthma. It soothes the bronchioles and forms healthy tissue in the lungs, thereby increasing resistance against respiratory infections.
Safflower Seeds: These are beneficial in the treatment of bronchial asthma. Taking half a teaspoon of the seed powder along with a tablespoon of honey acts as an expectorant and reduces the spasms by liquefying the tenacious sputum.
Honey: This sweetner is rich in ethereal oil and alcohol that is beneficial in asthma. Inhaling the air that comes in contact with honey brings relief and the patient is able to breathe deeper and easier.
Thus by consuming a diet that is rich in essential nutrients you can effectively control your asthma.
Tips For Eating Out
Many patients have found themselves very capable of eating properly at home but quickly fall into old habits when it's time to eat out. During the past 10 years or so, however, restaurants have become more aware that many of their patrons are on restricted diets. There is absolutely no reason to feel uncomfortable about ordering a baked potato and a salad in a fine restaurant. In fact, you can and should, make special requests for foods that are more appropriate to your needs. Keep the following tips in mind when you order a meal:
* Entrees covered with sauces, as well as creamy dressing, thick soups and casseroles should be avoided because they are usually rich in fat.
* Order a low-fat appetizer and a salad. Specify that it come with your partner’s entree.
* Avoid fried foods. Choose baked, broiled, boiled, roasted, steamed and grilled.
* Club soda, herbal tea, and decaffeinated coffee are good choices of beverages at a meal, as is a glass of ice water with a wedge of lemon or lime.
* Sourdough, whole-wheat, rye and French breads are lower in saturated fats than biscuits, white bread, and dinner roles.
* Salads are available almost everywhere. Order salads with reduced-calorie salad dressing. Choosing your meal from the salad bar is a good source of good foods (omitting the occasional fat-laden salads and salad dressings that are sometimes there!).
* Ask to have sauces and gravies omitted, or "on the side".
* Look for items labeled "heart-healthy" on the menu
* Don’t be afraid to ask how a dish is prepared.
* Substitute low-fat choices (steamed vegetables for creamed sauces, baked potatoes for french fries, etc.).
* Avoid items described with terms like battered, creamed, au gratin, scalloped, breaded. Good terms include au jus, poached, steamed, baked, etc.
* Pizza: choose thin-crust, avoid meat toppings and get small amounts of cheese (if you pat the top of a pizza with a napkin, this will soak up a lot of extra fat).
* Pastas: good choices if accompanied by red marinara sauce or simple vegetables. Avoid cream or meat sauces.
* Sandwiches: choose lean and not processed meat, get extra lettuce and tomato, and hold the mayo.
* Dessert: Order the fresh fruit. If you HAVE to have that chocolate decadence (or whatever your hot button is), split it with a companion, and make sure you cut down somewhere else. Okay, I’m feeling sorry for you, sometimes you simply cannot resist temptation . . . eat the whole thing, but feel very guilty (and make sure you cut down somewhere else).
* Entrees covered with sauces, as well as creamy dressing, thick soups and casseroles should be avoided because they are usually rich in fat.
* Order a low-fat appetizer and a salad. Specify that it come with your partner’s entree.
* Avoid fried foods. Choose baked, broiled, boiled, roasted, steamed and grilled.
* Club soda, herbal tea, and decaffeinated coffee are good choices of beverages at a meal, as is a glass of ice water with a wedge of lemon or lime.
* Sourdough, whole-wheat, rye and French breads are lower in saturated fats than biscuits, white bread, and dinner roles.
* Salads are available almost everywhere. Order salads with reduced-calorie salad dressing. Choosing your meal from the salad bar is a good source of good foods (omitting the occasional fat-laden salads and salad dressings that are sometimes there!).
* Ask to have sauces and gravies omitted, or "on the side".
* Look for items labeled "heart-healthy" on the menu
* Don’t be afraid to ask how a dish is prepared.
* Substitute low-fat choices (steamed vegetables for creamed sauces, baked potatoes for french fries, etc.).
* Avoid items described with terms like battered, creamed, au gratin, scalloped, breaded. Good terms include au jus, poached, steamed, baked, etc.
* Pizza: choose thin-crust, avoid meat toppings and get small amounts of cheese (if you pat the top of a pizza with a napkin, this will soak up a lot of extra fat).
* Pastas: good choices if accompanied by red marinara sauce or simple vegetables. Avoid cream or meat sauces.
* Sandwiches: choose lean and not processed meat, get extra lettuce and tomato, and hold the mayo.
* Dessert: Order the fresh fruit. If you HAVE to have that chocolate decadence (or whatever your hot button is), split it with a companion, and make sure you cut down somewhere else. Okay, I’m feeling sorry for you, sometimes you simply cannot resist temptation . . . eat the whole thing, but feel very guilty (and make sure you cut down somewhere else).
Low - Fat Eating
Low - Fat Eating
Here are some specific tips on eating a low-fat diet. Remember it’s not as hard as it seems. For more on this topic, check out the section on Cholesterol in the HeartPoint Gallery.
* Make a shopping list
* Eat more vegetables, fruit and grains.
* You don’t have to stop eating foods you enjoy that are high in fat, just cut down on the amount of their servings. Use bigger quantities of low-fat foods to accompany them.
--Instead of a steak that covers the whole plate, get a cut that you really like of modest size. 4 ounces of beef is recommended – that’s a steak about the size of a deck of cards.
--Flavor your stew with meat in modest amounts, don’t overpower it.
--Eat one egg instead of two.
* Eat fatty foods less often. You don’t have to quit your favorite foods completely. For example, you don’t have to have meat every day.
* Trim the visible fat. Remove all of the skin from poultry.
* Limit organ meats (liver, kidney)
* Use lunch meats sparingly (salami, bologna, sausage)
* Make egg dishes with egg whites rather than egg yolks.
* Drink skim or 1% milk (if you drink milk)
* Watch the cheese (sorry!). Look for low-fat varieties, especially for cooking.
* Don’t add fat as you cook.
--Instead of :
--Frying
--Use these techniques :
--Roasting (on a rack if possible so fat drains away)
--Grilling
--Baking
* Don’t settle for dull. A little imagination can go a long way in keeping foods interesting:
--Try new spices
--Get a good low-fat cookbook with a number of recipes and alternatives. Invest a little time in planning some good alternatives.
--Come back and check out Bonnie’s recipes on HeartPoint!
* Cut down on added fats, such as salad dressing and butter. Try and use those which are low in saturated fats, and in moderation!
--Avoid
--Butter
--Lard
--Palm oil, coconut oil
(These contain about 40% saturated fat)
--Use
--Olive oil
--Use a vegetable oil spray to brown or saute food.
--Canola, safflower, sunflower, peanut, and corn oil.
(These contain about 20% saturated fat)
* Read the labels (follow the links). Unfortunately, you really have to pay attention to some foods that say "Healthy" or "No cholesterol". They may still contain large amounts of fat and saturated fat!
* Make some reasonable substitutions
* Use prudence when dining out
* KEEP ON TRYING ! !
Here are some specific tips on eating a low-fat diet. Remember it’s not as hard as it seems. For more on this topic, check out the section on Cholesterol in the HeartPoint Gallery.
* Make a shopping list
* Eat more vegetables, fruit and grains.
* You don’t have to stop eating foods you enjoy that are high in fat, just cut down on the amount of their servings. Use bigger quantities of low-fat foods to accompany them.
--Instead of a steak that covers the whole plate, get a cut that you really like of modest size. 4 ounces of beef is recommended – that’s a steak about the size of a deck of cards.
--Flavor your stew with meat in modest amounts, don’t overpower it.
--Eat one egg instead of two.
* Eat fatty foods less often. You don’t have to quit your favorite foods completely. For example, you don’t have to have meat every day.
* Trim the visible fat. Remove all of the skin from poultry.
* Limit organ meats (liver, kidney)
* Use lunch meats sparingly (salami, bologna, sausage)
* Make egg dishes with egg whites rather than egg yolks.
* Drink skim or 1% milk (if you drink milk)
* Watch the cheese (sorry!). Look for low-fat varieties, especially for cooking.
* Don’t add fat as you cook.
--Instead of :
--Frying
--Use these techniques :
--Roasting (on a rack if possible so fat drains away)
--Grilling
--Baking
* Don’t settle for dull. A little imagination can go a long way in keeping foods interesting:
--Try new spices
--Get a good low-fat cookbook with a number of recipes and alternatives. Invest a little time in planning some good alternatives.
--Come back and check out Bonnie’s recipes on HeartPoint!
* Cut down on added fats, such as salad dressing and butter. Try and use those which are low in saturated fats, and in moderation!
--Avoid
--Butter
--Lard
--Palm oil, coconut oil
(These contain about 40% saturated fat)
--Use
--Olive oil
--Use a vegetable oil spray to brown or saute food.
--Canola, safflower, sunflower, peanut, and corn oil.
(These contain about 20% saturated fat)
* Read the labels (follow the links). Unfortunately, you really have to pay attention to some foods that say "Healthy" or "No cholesterol". They may still contain large amounts of fat and saturated fat!
* Make some reasonable substitutions
* Use prudence when dining out
* KEEP ON TRYING ! !
Tips to Avoid Over Eating
* Slow down, chew with purpose: Take at least 20 minutes to consume a meal. Taking longer to eat will make you feel as though you are eating more. Enjoy the conversation and companionship.
* Eat only while sitting down: Much extra food in consumed on the run. Making it a point to sit down while eating will help you think about how much you are consuming.
* Eat off smaller plates!
* Drink a 12 ounce glass of water before eating: It will take up room in your stomach and make you feel less hungry.
* Wait 10 minutes before snacking: Between meal snacks are usually impulsive acts. A wait before eating them will often make you realize you aren't hungry after all.
* Keep the right stuff up front: Make such foods as fruit and vegetables readily available by keeping them in the front of the refrigerator shelves.
* Eat only while sitting down: Much extra food in consumed on the run. Making it a point to sit down while eating will help you think about how much you are consuming.
* Eat off smaller plates!
* Drink a 12 ounce glass of water before eating: It will take up room in your stomach and make you feel less hungry.
* Wait 10 minutes before snacking: Between meal snacks are usually impulsive acts. A wait before eating them will often make you realize you aren't hungry after all.
* Keep the right stuff up front: Make such foods as fruit and vegetables readily available by keeping them in the front of the refrigerator shelves.
Tips to look Slim
There are times especially the holiday season when you take a break from your sensible-eating and exercise regime and want to just lie back and enjoy all those forbidden foods. Well then you are bound to put on weight but until you have worked towards reducing the excess weight you can follow these few tips to look slim.
* Stand comfortably erect and stick your stomach in. Good posture always makes you look slimmer.
* Dark colours such as olive, black, charcoal grey, and navy help make areas appear smaller so wear them where you think you need it. For most women it's from the waist down.
* Avoid shiny or heavily textured fabrics. Shiny fabrics reflect light, making any area appear larger. Heavily texture fabrics only add extra weight.
* Sewn-down pleats in skirts and blouses can both create a slimming effect. Include vertical lines in your accessories, such as long chains worn around the neck.
* Avoid extensive use of horizontal lines - belts, boat-collar blouses and border print skirts. These styles can add extra width to your body frame.
* Your best asset is your face; so draw attention to it with scarves and jewellery worn around the face.
* Introduce simple lines, such as A-line skirts, tailor-notched, collared blouses and blazers. The oversized blazer is a great solution for camouflaging large derrieres and hips. Double-pleated skirts and trousers mask protruding stomachs and provide comfort as well.
* If you want to appear thinner incorporate dark, cool and dull colours and textures. Dull textures absorb the light like wool or cotton. Some very slimming colours include black, navy, olive, violet, charcoal grey, chocolate brown, plum, eggplant and burgundy.
* Stand comfortably erect and stick your stomach in. Good posture always makes you look slimmer.
* Dark colours such as olive, black, charcoal grey, and navy help make areas appear smaller so wear them where you think you need it. For most women it's from the waist down.
* Avoid shiny or heavily textured fabrics. Shiny fabrics reflect light, making any area appear larger. Heavily texture fabrics only add extra weight.
* Sewn-down pleats in skirts and blouses can both create a slimming effect. Include vertical lines in your accessories, such as long chains worn around the neck.
* Avoid extensive use of horizontal lines - belts, boat-collar blouses and border print skirts. These styles can add extra width to your body frame.
* Your best asset is your face; so draw attention to it with scarves and jewellery worn around the face.
* Introduce simple lines, such as A-line skirts, tailor-notched, collared blouses and blazers. The oversized blazer is a great solution for camouflaging large derrieres and hips. Double-pleated skirts and trousers mask protruding stomachs and provide comfort as well.
* If you want to appear thinner incorporate dark, cool and dull colours and textures. Dull textures absorb the light like wool or cotton. Some very slimming colours include black, navy, olive, violet, charcoal grey, chocolate brown, plum, eggplant and burgundy.
Massage for good health
Massage
An aromatherapy massage using essential oils is a therapeutic treatment for both the mind and body that works mainly on the nervous system. More effective than any other massage, aromatherapy can either relax or stimulate the body and mind. The highly potent essential oils penetrate the body via the skin and are also inhaled as the massage progresses.
For the massage, you need to dilute 1 or 2 drops of essential oil in a base oil (coconut, sweet almond and jojoba) of your choice and then gently massage it all over your body. If you have a dry skin, add some avocado or wheatgerm oil to the base oil. Find a friend or your partner and get started on the magic of aromatherapy.
Setting up
Any massage is relaxing but you can enhance the experience by following a few simple steps to help create the right mood. An aromatherapist uses a massage bench, but at home you can work comfortably on a cushioned floor. Prepare the floor or surface with a large cotton sheet covered with a bath towel. You should keep a pillow, a large wraparound towel for the body and a warm blanket by the feet.
With a partner
Creating the right ambience is a must before you start the actual massage.
* Fragrance the room with incense or spray a whiff of perfume and switch on some soothing background music.
* Keep the room temperature warm, draw the curtains and dim the lights.
* It is important that you keep outside noises such as traffic, telephone or even children screaming, at bay.
* Make sure that your partner is comfortable, so cover parts that are not being worked on if you think your partner may be getting cold.
* A top to toe aromatherapy massage takes close to an hour so make sure that you are undisturbed for that period.
Important Tips
If performed correctly, a massage can work wonders. Apart from your hands and fingers, your whole being must be totally involved in the process of giving a massage. You also need to remember the following tips:
* Try out the movements on parts of your own body to get a sense of how the strokes should feel and how much pressure to use.
* Massage movements should be slow and gentle to help relaxation and eliminate tension that tightens the muscles.
* Remember that the movements should flow into each other. If you find you have missed out a step or gone on to the wrong part of the body, don't panic. Finish the part you are working on before going back to it, or leave it out altogether, rather than interrupt the flow of the massage.
* When you give the massage, make sure you are relaxed and comfortable, or you will transmit your own tensions to your partner and it will not be an effective massage.
* Try to maintain contact with your partner's body as much as possible even as you move into a different position.
* When massaging different parts of the body keep the areas not being worked on covered with a large towel or blanket. The heat helps the body to absorb the oils.
* If the recipient's back is stressed in any way, place a pillow under the knees when lying on the back, and under the pelvis when lying on the stomach.
* Wear loose comfortable clothing to give the massage, so your movements are not hampered.
* For complete relaxation, avoid chatting during the massage. But do encourage feedback from your partner - you must be told if something doesn't feel good.
Getting massage done
Your masseur may be perfect, but if you are not prepared to receive the massage, then the massage will lose its efficacy. Here's how to make the most of your massage:
Before the massage:
* Have a cool shower or wash before a massage. Do not soak in a hot bath or the oils will immediately seep into the skin.
* Don't use an underarm deodorant or body spray during the treatment, as this will block the effect of the oils.
* Don't have a large meal just before an aromatherapy massage as your system will be too busy digesting to be thoroughly relaxed.
* Don't drink alcohol before a treatment.
* Don't have a massage if you have flu or a fever or any serious ailment.
After the massage:
* Drink a glass of water immediately after a treatment.
* Lie still for at least 5 minutes before getting up.
* Don't bathe or shower for at least 12 hours after a treatment, to allow the oils to be absorbed by the skin and begin the all-important work of detoxifying the body.
* Drink plenty of water for the rest of the day as the kidneys will be active in eliminating the toxins.
* Avoid alcohol for at least 12 hours after the treatment to give the body a chance to detoxify thoroughly.
An aromatherapy massage, especially done with your partner, will leave you feeling relaxed and stimulated at the same time. It will relieve you of your stress and fatigue and give you a new lease of life. What's more, it has no side effects, is natural, safe and the perfect prescription for good health.
An aromatherapy massage using essential oils is a therapeutic treatment for both the mind and body that works mainly on the nervous system. More effective than any other massage, aromatherapy can either relax or stimulate the body and mind. The highly potent essential oils penetrate the body via the skin and are also inhaled as the massage progresses.
For the massage, you need to dilute 1 or 2 drops of essential oil in a base oil (coconut, sweet almond and jojoba) of your choice and then gently massage it all over your body. If you have a dry skin, add some avocado or wheatgerm oil to the base oil. Find a friend or your partner and get started on the magic of aromatherapy.
Setting up
Any massage is relaxing but you can enhance the experience by following a few simple steps to help create the right mood. An aromatherapist uses a massage bench, but at home you can work comfortably on a cushioned floor. Prepare the floor or surface with a large cotton sheet covered with a bath towel. You should keep a pillow, a large wraparound towel for the body and a warm blanket by the feet.
With a partner
Creating the right ambience is a must before you start the actual massage.
* Fragrance the room with incense or spray a whiff of perfume and switch on some soothing background music.
* Keep the room temperature warm, draw the curtains and dim the lights.
* It is important that you keep outside noises such as traffic, telephone or even children screaming, at bay.
* Make sure that your partner is comfortable, so cover parts that are not being worked on if you think your partner may be getting cold.
* A top to toe aromatherapy massage takes close to an hour so make sure that you are undisturbed for that period.
Important Tips
If performed correctly, a massage can work wonders. Apart from your hands and fingers, your whole being must be totally involved in the process of giving a massage. You also need to remember the following tips:
* Try out the movements on parts of your own body to get a sense of how the strokes should feel and how much pressure to use.
* Massage movements should be slow and gentle to help relaxation and eliminate tension that tightens the muscles.
* Remember that the movements should flow into each other. If you find you have missed out a step or gone on to the wrong part of the body, don't panic. Finish the part you are working on before going back to it, or leave it out altogether, rather than interrupt the flow of the massage.
* When you give the massage, make sure you are relaxed and comfortable, or you will transmit your own tensions to your partner and it will not be an effective massage.
* Try to maintain contact with your partner's body as much as possible even as you move into a different position.
* When massaging different parts of the body keep the areas not being worked on covered with a large towel or blanket. The heat helps the body to absorb the oils.
* If the recipient's back is stressed in any way, place a pillow under the knees when lying on the back, and under the pelvis when lying on the stomach.
* Wear loose comfortable clothing to give the massage, so your movements are not hampered.
* For complete relaxation, avoid chatting during the massage. But do encourage feedback from your partner - you must be told if something doesn't feel good.
Getting massage done
Your masseur may be perfect, but if you are not prepared to receive the massage, then the massage will lose its efficacy. Here's how to make the most of your massage:
Before the massage:
* Have a cool shower or wash before a massage. Do not soak in a hot bath or the oils will immediately seep into the skin.
* Don't use an underarm deodorant or body spray during the treatment, as this will block the effect of the oils.
* Don't have a large meal just before an aromatherapy massage as your system will be too busy digesting to be thoroughly relaxed.
* Don't drink alcohol before a treatment.
* Don't have a massage if you have flu or a fever or any serious ailment.
After the massage:
* Drink a glass of water immediately after a treatment.
* Lie still for at least 5 minutes before getting up.
* Don't bathe or shower for at least 12 hours after a treatment, to allow the oils to be absorbed by the skin and begin the all-important work of detoxifying the body.
* Drink plenty of water for the rest of the day as the kidneys will be active in eliminating the toxins.
* Avoid alcohol for at least 12 hours after the treatment to give the body a chance to detoxify thoroughly.
An aromatherapy massage, especially done with your partner, will leave you feeling relaxed and stimulated at the same time. It will relieve you of your stress and fatigue and give you a new lease of life. What's more, it has no side effects, is natural, safe and the perfect prescription for good health.
What is body odour & how to beat it ?
Body odour is a general term for what happens to sweat and other skin secretions when they are acted upon by naturally occurring bacteria. Sweat or perspiration is a salty liquid, which oozes out of the pores in our skin. Two types of glands produce sweat, the "eccrine" glands and the "apocrine" glands. The "eccrine" glands are dispersed throughout the body but are concentrated in the armpits, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and the forehead. When the body is overheated - from hot weather, physical exertion, or fever - the "eccrine" glands help regulate body temperature by expelling a solution of water and salts that cools the skin. The "apocrine" glands are concentrated in the armpits and around the groin. These glands develop during puberty and have nothing to do with temperature regulation; instead, they respond to such conditions as sexual arousal, nervousness, and anger, as well as to heat and exertion. The sweat they produce is rich in organic substances that attract bacteria and produce a strong odour. Other reasons could be the purely the 'faulty lifestyles' or 'emotional stresses' like in ovulation or menopause when the hormones trigger the "apocrine" glands to produce the characteristic smell.
Actually sweat is body's most convenient way of maintaining "homeostasis" or keeping cool. But when the temperature spurts above the normal there are about 2.5 million sweat glands, which act as tiny air-conditioners in maintaining the homeostatic balance. Surprisingly our sweat has no odour of its own. It usually smells bad only when the bacteria act on the sweat after reaching the skin surface. Normally most people tend to combat bad body odour with products like deodorants or body sprays as a solution. But it can only diminish the effects temporarily. In fact bad body odour (B.O) indicates that you're disturbed emotionally or physically.
Broadly, there are three completely different kinds of problem that are responsible for bad body odour
1. Hygiene problem; not cleaning up properly, not having proper bath or using clean clothes. Ask the pharmicist for advice on soaps and cleansers and deodorants. But be warned; an excess of chemicals can make things worse, not better. Take advice and follow it.
2. Skin problem; if you have a bit of eczema or psoriasis or allergy problems, it is possible that a skin infection, probably fungal, is contributing to the problem. You need to know, and if that's the case, it is treatable, though not always easily.
3. There are some uncommon genetic conditions that are associated with odour. They are uncommon, and there are methods of dealing with the problem. Again, consult your doctor.
Following are the factors that are the main cause of body odour
* Obesity
* Warm temp not only stimulate the sweat glands but also cause bacterium to break sweet down into a sticky coating that becomes a magnet for dirt thereby causing bad body odour.
* Synthetic fabrics like polyester look good but trap sweat. This trapped sweat makes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
* Bad eating pattern
* Tight fitting clothes / shoes also increase the likelihood of excess perspiration and body odour.
Golden rules to fight body odour
* Take a shower using an antibacterial soap followed by a deodorant once in a day especially in the areas around the anus and the genitals.
* When bathing, use a good brush in circular movement.
* Use cotton clothes especially cotton undergarments, which lets the skin breathe. Avoid synthetic clothes.
* Wear loose cloths instead of figure-hugging ones and change your cloths daily.
* Washing areas under the armpits is a must as 80% of the body's sweat is present there.
* If you're buying products to handle perspiration knowing their difference is a must. For example, antiperspirants stop the sweat from leaving the skin by blocking the pores while deodorants destroy the bacteria when sweat leaves the body.
* To get rid of smelly feet, wash and dry between the feet adequately and wear well-ventilated footwear to let feet breath.
* Double-check your Medicine. Synthetic hormones, oral contraceptives, steroids and some asthma medications stimulate sweat production. Respond by applying medically formulated antibacterial creams to your underarms.
* Use a deodorant or anti-perspirant that contains aluminium chlorohydrate or zirconium.
* Curb your coffee and tea intake. Caffeine can stimulate the autonomic nervous system, which regulates sweating. Limit yourself to two cups daily.
* Avoid alcohol since it increases perspiration potential by dilating blood vessels.
* If none of the above work and or the scent of your perspiration becomes stronger or more intense. See your doctor.
Some Home Remedies
* After your bath, add a tablespoon of honey to tepid water for the final rinse. This will help keep body odour in check.
* Adding a teaspoon of alum to your bath water make you smell fresh all the day.
* In summer, add a cup full of vinegar to your bath water or add a cupful of camphor oil to your bath water.
* Baking soda used as a powder will absorb chemicals; therefore this will remove body odours. Use a powder puff, which has been used for talc, to apply the powder.
* Boil mint leaves and add the water to your bath water. Keep some aside for a special dousing for your armpits and between the thighs.
Foods that help deal with bad body odour
* A balance diet is a must. Ideally it should be the one, which has about 20% protein i.e., fish, poultry, or combinations of pulses and grains, 20% oils and fats and balance from vegetables, fruit, pulses and grains.
* Include turnip or its juice in your diet.
* Red radish juice can be included in the diet. You can also apply it under the arm after the morning shower. Also apply it on your feet and in between the toes. Radish juice helps keep body odour at bay.
* Drinking plenty of water will also ensure that you smell fresh and sweet.
* Eating a tablespoon of aniseed is other way of smelling fresh and sweet.
Foods to be avoided
People with body odour should avoid food that are rich in lecithin or choline or cantine/lysine such as soya products, corn, wheat and also chocolates, peanuts, nuts, raisins, cereals, eggs, etc or limit the intake of these foods to a small part of the daily diet.
Actually sweat is body's most convenient way of maintaining "homeostasis" or keeping cool. But when the temperature spurts above the normal there are about 2.5 million sweat glands, which act as tiny air-conditioners in maintaining the homeostatic balance. Surprisingly our sweat has no odour of its own. It usually smells bad only when the bacteria act on the sweat after reaching the skin surface. Normally most people tend to combat bad body odour with products like deodorants or body sprays as a solution. But it can only diminish the effects temporarily. In fact bad body odour (B.O) indicates that you're disturbed emotionally or physically.
Broadly, there are three completely different kinds of problem that are responsible for bad body odour
1. Hygiene problem; not cleaning up properly, not having proper bath or using clean clothes. Ask the pharmicist for advice on soaps and cleansers and deodorants. But be warned; an excess of chemicals can make things worse, not better. Take advice and follow it.
2. Skin problem; if you have a bit of eczema or psoriasis or allergy problems, it is possible that a skin infection, probably fungal, is contributing to the problem. You need to know, and if that's the case, it is treatable, though not always easily.
3. There are some uncommon genetic conditions that are associated with odour. They are uncommon, and there are methods of dealing with the problem. Again, consult your doctor.
Following are the factors that are the main cause of body odour
* Obesity
* Warm temp not only stimulate the sweat glands but also cause bacterium to break sweet down into a sticky coating that becomes a magnet for dirt thereby causing bad body odour.
* Synthetic fabrics like polyester look good but trap sweat. This trapped sweat makes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
* Bad eating pattern
* Tight fitting clothes / shoes also increase the likelihood of excess perspiration and body odour.
Golden rules to fight body odour
* Take a shower using an antibacterial soap followed by a deodorant once in a day especially in the areas around the anus and the genitals.
* When bathing, use a good brush in circular movement.
* Use cotton clothes especially cotton undergarments, which lets the skin breathe. Avoid synthetic clothes.
* Wear loose cloths instead of figure-hugging ones and change your cloths daily.
* Washing areas under the armpits is a must as 80% of the body's sweat is present there.
* If you're buying products to handle perspiration knowing their difference is a must. For example, antiperspirants stop the sweat from leaving the skin by blocking the pores while deodorants destroy the bacteria when sweat leaves the body.
* To get rid of smelly feet, wash and dry between the feet adequately and wear well-ventilated footwear to let feet breath.
* Double-check your Medicine. Synthetic hormones, oral contraceptives, steroids and some asthma medications stimulate sweat production. Respond by applying medically formulated antibacterial creams to your underarms.
* Use a deodorant or anti-perspirant that contains aluminium chlorohydrate or zirconium.
* Curb your coffee and tea intake. Caffeine can stimulate the autonomic nervous system, which regulates sweating. Limit yourself to two cups daily.
* Avoid alcohol since it increases perspiration potential by dilating blood vessels.
* If none of the above work and or the scent of your perspiration becomes stronger or more intense. See your doctor.
Some Home Remedies
* After your bath, add a tablespoon of honey to tepid water for the final rinse. This will help keep body odour in check.
* Adding a teaspoon of alum to your bath water make you smell fresh all the day.
* In summer, add a cup full of vinegar to your bath water or add a cupful of camphor oil to your bath water.
* Baking soda used as a powder will absorb chemicals; therefore this will remove body odours. Use a powder puff, which has been used for talc, to apply the powder.
* Boil mint leaves and add the water to your bath water. Keep some aside for a special dousing for your armpits and between the thighs.
Foods that help deal with bad body odour
* A balance diet is a must. Ideally it should be the one, which has about 20% protein i.e., fish, poultry, or combinations of pulses and grains, 20% oils and fats and balance from vegetables, fruit, pulses and grains.
* Include turnip or its juice in your diet.
* Red radish juice can be included in the diet. You can also apply it under the arm after the morning shower. Also apply it on your feet and in between the toes. Radish juice helps keep body odour at bay.
* Drinking plenty of water will also ensure that you smell fresh and sweet.
* Eating a tablespoon of aniseed is other way of smelling fresh and sweet.
Foods to be avoided
People with body odour should avoid food that are rich in lecithin or choline or cantine/lysine such as soya products, corn, wheat and also chocolates, peanuts, nuts, raisins, cereals, eggs, etc or limit the intake of these foods to a small part of the daily diet.
Beauty treatment-the natural way
Pack for a fair and smooth skin
Take 2 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp glycerin and 3 tsp rose water and mix. Apply this lotion all over the body and keep it for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.
Take 1 tsp lemon juice, cup yogurt and 1 tsp orange juice. Make a paste and apply this on your face and neck and keep for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.
For dry skin this mask works wonders. Take one egg and beat it till frothy. Add 1 tsp honey. 1 tsp glycerin, 1 tsp mineral oil. Apply this on the face and other dry areas on the body and wash after 15 minutes.
Protein Pack: soak 1 tsp 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.
Mix 2 tsp rice powder, 4 tsp tea water, 1 tsp honey. Apply this mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour with lukewarm water.
Take 1 egg and beat it in a small bowl. Add cup coconut oil and 1 tbsp honey and beat it slowly bringing its consistency like mayonnaise. Spread the mixture into a toilet paper roll, and set in the freezer overnight. To use, peel away the top of the cardboard roll and smooth the frozen stick over your face. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, and then wash off with warm water.
Take 1 tbsp powder milk, 1 peeled cucumber and 1 tsp yogurt. Mix all these together in a blender to a fine paste and apply on the face for 15-20 minutes and wash off with warm water.
Astringents
Take 1 peeled cucumber; add 6 tsp rose water, 4 tsp Eau-de-cologne and 3 tsp glycerin. Make a paste in a blender and strain to get a lotion. Refrigerate and use on face and body.
Take lemon, orange and 3/4 cup ethanol alcohol. Blend in a mixer and strain. Refrigerate and use.
Mash strawberries, use as an astringent and cleansing facemask.
Lemon is a strong astringent, dilute with water before using, being careful to keep away from eyes.
Take 2 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp glycerin and 3 tsp rose water and mix. Apply this lotion all over the body and keep it for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.
Take 1 tsp lemon juice, cup yogurt and 1 tsp orange juice. Make a paste and apply this on your face and neck and keep for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.
For dry skin this mask works wonders. Take one egg and beat it till frothy. Add 1 tsp honey. 1 tsp glycerin, 1 tsp mineral oil. Apply this on the face and other dry areas on the body and wash after 15 minutes.
Protein Pack: soak 1 tsp 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.
Mix 2 tsp rice powder, 4 tsp tea water, 1 tsp honey. Apply this mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour with lukewarm water.
Take 1 egg and beat it in a small bowl. Add cup coconut oil and 1 tbsp honey and beat it slowly bringing its consistency like mayonnaise. Spread the mixture into a toilet paper roll, and set in the freezer overnight. To use, peel away the top of the cardboard roll and smooth the frozen stick over your face. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, and then wash off with warm water.
Take 1 tbsp powder milk, 1 peeled cucumber and 1 tsp yogurt. Mix all these together in a blender to a fine paste and apply on the face for 15-20 minutes and wash off with warm water.
Astringents
Take 1 peeled cucumber; add 6 tsp rose water, 4 tsp Eau-de-cologne and 3 tsp glycerin. Make a paste in a blender and strain to get a lotion. Refrigerate and use on face and body.
Take lemon, orange and 3/4 cup ethanol alcohol. Blend in a mixer and strain. Refrigerate and use.
Mash strawberries, use as an astringent and cleansing facemask.
Lemon is a strong astringent, dilute with water before using, being careful to keep away from eyes.
Tips for teeth care
A good smile catches the attention of everyone and increases your face value. However your smile looks more beautiful if you have sparkling white teeth. Therefore, it is important that you take care of those tiny pearls that make your smile so special.
If you want to get the glitter in your smile then you have to learn to take care of your teeth. It is very important to take care of your teeth since it helps prevent formation of plague around the gums of teeth causing tooth decay and inflammation of the gums. Following are a few tips that help keep your teeth sparkling clean and prevent tooth decay.
* Learn to brush properly: Brush your teeth properly in order to keep your teeth scrupulously clean. It is important to learn how to brush properly. Move the brush from the gum to the biting edge, working the bristles between the teeth to dislodge food particles. Besides the teeth, the gum should also be cleaned. Massage them in the same stroke as brushing your teeth and give them an occasional extra massage, rubbing them gently in circular movement with a little toothpaste on your finger. Brush teeth systematically around the front and then the inside followed by a sawing movement across the tops of the teeth.
* A good toothbrush is as important as the toothpaste. Hence it is important to choose shape and brand of toothbrush. A good one should have small angled head and soft to medium rounded bristles. This is important as it helps clean all those hidden areas of your teeth.
* Always change your toothbrush after every 3 months.
* Floss regularly to remove the plaque and food debris stuck between the teeth.
* Use a mouthwash to make sure that your breath is fresh. Put a few drops in warm water and rinse your mouth after you clean your teeth in the morning.
* Brush your teeth twice daily or after every meal if possible.
* Visit the dentist regularly and this will help keep your teeth healthy.
Some home-made beauty tips that will keep your teeth sparkling clean
* For sparkling teeth, rub them once or twice a week with a dried bay leaf (tej patta) or with table salt.
* For bringing glitter in your teeth rub them with cotton wool dipped (and then squeezed out) in hydrogen peroxide. This has a slight bleaching effect. You can also make a liquid of these products by mixing two teaspoons of table salt and two teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide in a large glass of warm water. Then wash your mouth.
* If your teeth have stains, you can remove them by rubbing strawberries or putting three tablespoons of soda bicarbonate with two tablespoons of salt.
* To use as mouthwash take cup of vinegar, cup wine, cup honey, and 1 teaspoon of powdered cloves and boil them. This works as an effective mouthwash.
If you want to get the glitter in your smile then you have to learn to take care of your teeth. It is very important to take care of your teeth since it helps prevent formation of plague around the gums of teeth causing tooth decay and inflammation of the gums. Following are a few tips that help keep your teeth sparkling clean and prevent tooth decay.
* Learn to brush properly: Brush your teeth properly in order to keep your teeth scrupulously clean. It is important to learn how to brush properly. Move the brush from the gum to the biting edge, working the bristles between the teeth to dislodge food particles. Besides the teeth, the gum should also be cleaned. Massage them in the same stroke as brushing your teeth and give them an occasional extra massage, rubbing them gently in circular movement with a little toothpaste on your finger. Brush teeth systematically around the front and then the inside followed by a sawing movement across the tops of the teeth.
* A good toothbrush is as important as the toothpaste. Hence it is important to choose shape and brand of toothbrush. A good one should have small angled head and soft to medium rounded bristles. This is important as it helps clean all those hidden areas of your teeth.
* Always change your toothbrush after every 3 months.
* Floss regularly to remove the plaque and food debris stuck between the teeth.
* Use a mouthwash to make sure that your breath is fresh. Put a few drops in warm water and rinse your mouth after you clean your teeth in the morning.
* Brush your teeth twice daily or after every meal if possible.
* Visit the dentist regularly and this will help keep your teeth healthy.
Some home-made beauty tips that will keep your teeth sparkling clean
* For sparkling teeth, rub them once or twice a week with a dried bay leaf (tej patta) or with table salt.
* For bringing glitter in your teeth rub them with cotton wool dipped (and then squeezed out) in hydrogen peroxide. This has a slight bleaching effect. You can also make a liquid of these products by mixing two teaspoons of table salt and two teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide in a large glass of warm water. Then wash your mouth.
* If your teeth have stains, you can remove them by rubbing strawberries or putting three tablespoons of soda bicarbonate with two tablespoons of salt.
* To use as mouthwash take cup of vinegar, cup wine, cup honey, and 1 teaspoon of powdered cloves and boil them. This works as an effective mouthwash.
What are skin types ?
Skin Types
There are five basic skin types, and you will want to consider yours when making your own aromatherapy beauty products.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is caused by over-active glands, which produce a substance called Asebum, a naturally healthy skin lubricant. When the skin produces too much sebum, it becomes thick and heavy in texture. Shininess, pimples and blemishes characterize oily skin. Frequent steam cleaning and exfoliation can help reduce these symptoms.
Dry Skin
Dry skin usually results when skin fails to produce enough sebum to maintain a naturally lubricated surface. This lack of oil in the skin is often hereditary, but can also be caused by over-exposure to the sun and other environmental elements. As we age, our skin becomes drier as decreased metabolism reduces the rapidity with which dead skin cells are replaced. Dry skin often appears coarse, tight, dull and flaky, with visible lines and wrinkles. Massage with essential and cold pressed oils can stimulate metabolism and alleviate dry skin conditions.
Normal Skin
Normal skin produces a healthy amount of sebum, and tends to be neither dry nor oily in feel.
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin reacts unfavorably to a variety of chemicals and environmental factors. Having had ample opportunity to compare brand new baby skin with skin that is just a few years old, it seems to me that all skin is delicate and sensitive when it is new. Increased exposure to nature's elements such as the sun, wind and cold, as well as to harsh cosmetic ingredients, tend to toughen skin over time.
Combination Skin
Many people have different skin types on different parts of the face. For example, it is not uncommon for a person to have oily skin around the nose, forehead and chin, while the rest of the face is more on the dry side. If you have more than one skin type on your face, it is wise to use products containing different ingredients to treat the areas differently.
Your Step-By-Step At-Home Facial
A basic facial must include at least 3 elements:
(1) cleansing;
(2) toning; and
(3) moisturizing.
Additional steps might include steaming, exfoliating and masking.
Step 1. Before cleansing your skin with a gentle cleanser, it is wise to give yourself a light steam treatment to open your pores and prepare your face for cleaning. To do this, simply soak a soft towel in a bowl of comfortably warm herbal tea. Wring out the towel and place it over your face and neck area and relax until it cools slightly. You may repeat this process, as it is quite soothing.
Step 2. Cleanse your face with a gentle handmade cleanser such as Rose Cream Cleanser. Use upward, circular movements of the fingertips to gently stimulate the skin and help lift surface debris and excess oil. Rinse with warm water and gently pat excess moisture from face with a soft towel. If you wear heavy make-up, you might wish to repeat the cleansing process.
Step 3. After cleansing, it is important to tone the skin using ingredients that help balance the pH of the skin, which is typically disturbed during the cleansing process. Apply the toner with a soft cotton pad, but do not rub the skin. Rather, saturate the pad and pat the toner over the face and neck area. Do not pat skin dry. Avoid eye area when using toner. You skin is now ready for moisturizing.
Step 4. Moisturize your skin using Aromatic Facial Oil, which contains a host of soothing ingredients to add moisture and nutrients to your skin. To seal in the moisture, be sure to apply the oil while skin remains damp from applying the toner. Gently apply the oil to your face and neck using patting motions. For oily areas of skin, one application of oil should suffice. Apply twice to dry areas of skin, waiting about 2-3 minutes between applications, and being sure to moisten the skin slightly with water or toner before the second application.
Aroma Facial For Oily Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Apply a paste of 1/2 tsp Milk powder, 2 drops Lemon oil, 1 drop Cedar wood on the face and neck and massage for a minute or two. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Apply on skin a paste made of fuller's earth, 2 drops rosemary and 2 drops basil and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non-perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 2 drops Lavender. Apply gently on skin.
Aroma Facial For Dry Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Make a paste of 1 tsp milk powder, I pinch sugar, 2 drops basil and 2 drops lemon and apply on the face and neck and gently massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Make a paste using almond powder, 1-drop lemon and 1-drop rose water and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non -perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 1 drop Rose and 1 drop Sandalwood. Apply gently on skin.
Aroma Facial For Normal Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Make a paste of 1 tsp milk, sandalwood powder and almond powder. Apply on face and neck and massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Make a paste using almond powder, 1/2 tsp honey and 1-drop rose and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non -perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 1 drop Rose and 1 drop lavender. Apply gently on skin.
Aroma Facial For Combination Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Apply a paste using 1 tsp. milk powder, 2 drops of Rosemary and 1 drop of juniper berry on face and neck and massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
For Dry Areas
Make a paste using Almond powder, 1-drop lemon, 1 drop rose and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
For Oily Areas
Make a paste using Fullers Earth, 2 drops Rosemary and 2 drops basil. and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality moisturizing cream and add 2 drops Lavender. Apply gently.
Aroma Facial For Sensitive Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Apply a paste using 1/2 tsp. milk powder, 2 drops of lavender and warm water on face and neck and massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Apply on skin a paste made of fuller's earth, 3 drops Chamomile and honey and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non -perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 5 drop Rose. Apply gently on skin.
There are five basic skin types, and you will want to consider yours when making your own aromatherapy beauty products.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is caused by over-active glands, which produce a substance called Asebum, a naturally healthy skin lubricant. When the skin produces too much sebum, it becomes thick and heavy in texture. Shininess, pimples and blemishes characterize oily skin. Frequent steam cleaning and exfoliation can help reduce these symptoms.
Dry Skin
Dry skin usually results when skin fails to produce enough sebum to maintain a naturally lubricated surface. This lack of oil in the skin is often hereditary, but can also be caused by over-exposure to the sun and other environmental elements. As we age, our skin becomes drier as decreased metabolism reduces the rapidity with which dead skin cells are replaced. Dry skin often appears coarse, tight, dull and flaky, with visible lines and wrinkles. Massage with essential and cold pressed oils can stimulate metabolism and alleviate dry skin conditions.
Normal Skin
Normal skin produces a healthy amount of sebum, and tends to be neither dry nor oily in feel.
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin reacts unfavorably to a variety of chemicals and environmental factors. Having had ample opportunity to compare brand new baby skin with skin that is just a few years old, it seems to me that all skin is delicate and sensitive when it is new. Increased exposure to nature's elements such as the sun, wind and cold, as well as to harsh cosmetic ingredients, tend to toughen skin over time.
Combination Skin
Many people have different skin types on different parts of the face. For example, it is not uncommon for a person to have oily skin around the nose, forehead and chin, while the rest of the face is more on the dry side. If you have more than one skin type on your face, it is wise to use products containing different ingredients to treat the areas differently.
Your Step-By-Step At-Home Facial
A basic facial must include at least 3 elements:
(1) cleansing;
(2) toning; and
(3) moisturizing.
Additional steps might include steaming, exfoliating and masking.
Step 1. Before cleansing your skin with a gentle cleanser, it is wise to give yourself a light steam treatment to open your pores and prepare your face for cleaning. To do this, simply soak a soft towel in a bowl of comfortably warm herbal tea. Wring out the towel and place it over your face and neck area and relax until it cools slightly. You may repeat this process, as it is quite soothing.
Step 2. Cleanse your face with a gentle handmade cleanser such as Rose Cream Cleanser. Use upward, circular movements of the fingertips to gently stimulate the skin and help lift surface debris and excess oil. Rinse with warm water and gently pat excess moisture from face with a soft towel. If you wear heavy make-up, you might wish to repeat the cleansing process.
Step 3. After cleansing, it is important to tone the skin using ingredients that help balance the pH of the skin, which is typically disturbed during the cleansing process. Apply the toner with a soft cotton pad, but do not rub the skin. Rather, saturate the pad and pat the toner over the face and neck area. Do not pat skin dry. Avoid eye area when using toner. You skin is now ready for moisturizing.
Step 4. Moisturize your skin using Aromatic Facial Oil, which contains a host of soothing ingredients to add moisture and nutrients to your skin. To seal in the moisture, be sure to apply the oil while skin remains damp from applying the toner. Gently apply the oil to your face and neck using patting motions. For oily areas of skin, one application of oil should suffice. Apply twice to dry areas of skin, waiting about 2-3 minutes between applications, and being sure to moisten the skin slightly with water or toner before the second application.
Aroma Facial For Oily Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Apply a paste of 1/2 tsp Milk powder, 2 drops Lemon oil, 1 drop Cedar wood on the face and neck and massage for a minute or two. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Apply on skin a paste made of fuller's earth, 2 drops rosemary and 2 drops basil and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non-perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 2 drops Lavender. Apply gently on skin.
Aroma Facial For Dry Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Make a paste of 1 tsp milk powder, I pinch sugar, 2 drops basil and 2 drops lemon and apply on the face and neck and gently massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Make a paste using almond powder, 1-drop lemon and 1-drop rose water and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non -perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 1 drop Rose and 1 drop Sandalwood. Apply gently on skin.
Aroma Facial For Normal Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Make a paste of 1 tsp milk, sandalwood powder and almond powder. Apply on face and neck and massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Make a paste using almond powder, 1/2 tsp honey and 1-drop rose and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non -perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 1 drop Rose and 1 drop lavender. Apply gently on skin.
Aroma Facial For Combination Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Apply a paste using 1 tsp. milk powder, 2 drops of Rosemary and 1 drop of juniper berry on face and neck and massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
For Dry Areas
Make a paste using Almond powder, 1-drop lemon, 1 drop rose and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
For Oily Areas
Make a paste using Fullers Earth, 2 drops Rosemary and 2 drops basil. and apply on the face and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality moisturizing cream and add 2 drops Lavender. Apply gently.
Aroma Facial For Sensitive Skin
Step 1. Cleansing
Apply a paste using 1/2 tsp. milk powder, 2 drops of lavender and warm water on face and neck and massage. Then wipe using tissue or cotton.
Step 2. Toning
Apply on skin a paste made of fuller's earth, 3 drops Chamomile and honey and leave it to dry. Then wipe it with wet towel.
Step 3. Moisturizing
Take any good quality non -perfumed moisturizing cream. To it add 5 drop Rose. Apply gently on skin.
How can I cure chapped lips?
How can I cure chapped lips?
Lips chap when its natural moisture is lost either by over-use of matte lipsticks or eating citric fruits or even by smacking lips too often. It could also be an allergic reaction to your toothpaste, mouthwash or lipstick.
Some tips to avoid chapped lips:
First rule of winter lip care: Don't lick your lips! Especially in cold weather, frequent lip-licking (something most of us do without even thinking about it) can lead to dry, cracked, painful lips. That's because as the saliva on your lips evaporates, it takes your lips' natural moisture with it -- and since lips don't have oil glands, their natural moisture is scarce to begin with. Once you've sworn off licking, here are some other tricks to turn your lips smooth and soft:
* Use a lip balm to help seal in moisture. Stay away from flavoured balms; you may just end up smacking your lips unable to resist the great taste. Try Vaseline Lip Guard.
* Exfoliate your lips once a week. Wet a soft toothbrush and gently brush your lips with a circular motion.
* Instead of using drying matte lipsticks, line your lips with a lipliner, then fill them in and cover with a gloss.
* Apply and reapply a thick, moisturising lip balm. For already-chapped lips, look for a medicated balm containing cooling, pain-reducing ingredients such as camphor, menthol, and phenol.
* Once your lips have healed, switch to a non-medicated balm with ingredients like vitamin E, allantoin, and honey. Apply in the morning, throughout the day under or over lipstick, and before bed.
* Slough off flakes. To keep lips silky, use a washcloth or wet toothbrush (skip the paste) to gently buff your lips every other day.
* Use a humidifier. Dry indoor air can sap the moisture from lips, so use a humidifier when you're indoors, and especially while you sleep.
How can I prevent dry feet and hands?
Apply olive oil on your hands and feet every night to avoid dry and flaky skin. Applying a moisturising lotion also does the trick. Use moisturisers from reputed companies as they have longer durability. Moisturising bars and glycerine-based soaps are also of great help too.
What about dandruff?
Winter is the time when dandruff strikes hard and again, it is mainly due to dry weather. Dandruff is basically nothing but dry scalp skin that flakes out. The key is to retain moisture in the scalp so that the skin doesn't peel off. Oil your hair twice a week and wash it with a good anti-dandruff shampoo with lukewarm water.
If I have oily skin, need I moisturise it?
Most people with oily skin have a wrong notion that they don't need moisturisers in winter. They feel that doing this will make their skin oilier. But even oily skin needs its own share of dampening. What you can do is use water-based moisturisers to avoid the blotchy look.
Simple solutions to three of your biggest winter hair worries:
Our hair has it rough all year long: But winter assaults hair in the worst ways. Read on for tips on how to beat the trickiest winter problems:
Problem: Dry, fuzzy ends
Solution: Schedule trims religiously -- every four to six weeks -- which prevents fried ends from getting worse. Stock up on a conditioner that's richer than your summer conditioner, and try an ultra-moisturising hair mask every week.
Problem: Static and flyaways
Solution: Spritz on a leave-in conditioner before you style, which helps to weigh hair down. When hair is dry, apply a small dab of shine serum with your hands, or mist on a light dose of hairspray. In the worst cases, rely on hairstylists' age-old solution: Spray a brush with Static-Guard, and run it through your hair.
Problem: Dullness
Solution: Ask your colourist to add a few highlights or apply a clear gloss to boost shine and luminosity. If you don't colour, use a gel or cream with silicone (a shine enhancer) before you style your hair.
Lips chap when its natural moisture is lost either by over-use of matte lipsticks or eating citric fruits or even by smacking lips too often. It could also be an allergic reaction to your toothpaste, mouthwash or lipstick.
Some tips to avoid chapped lips:
First rule of winter lip care: Don't lick your lips! Especially in cold weather, frequent lip-licking (something most of us do without even thinking about it) can lead to dry, cracked, painful lips. That's because as the saliva on your lips evaporates, it takes your lips' natural moisture with it -- and since lips don't have oil glands, their natural moisture is scarce to begin with. Once you've sworn off licking, here are some other tricks to turn your lips smooth and soft:
* Use a lip balm to help seal in moisture. Stay away from flavoured balms; you may just end up smacking your lips unable to resist the great taste. Try Vaseline Lip Guard.
* Exfoliate your lips once a week. Wet a soft toothbrush and gently brush your lips with a circular motion.
* Instead of using drying matte lipsticks, line your lips with a lipliner, then fill them in and cover with a gloss.
* Apply and reapply a thick, moisturising lip balm. For already-chapped lips, look for a medicated balm containing cooling, pain-reducing ingredients such as camphor, menthol, and phenol.
* Once your lips have healed, switch to a non-medicated balm with ingredients like vitamin E, allantoin, and honey. Apply in the morning, throughout the day under or over lipstick, and before bed.
* Slough off flakes. To keep lips silky, use a washcloth or wet toothbrush (skip the paste) to gently buff your lips every other day.
* Use a humidifier. Dry indoor air can sap the moisture from lips, so use a humidifier when you're indoors, and especially while you sleep.
How can I prevent dry feet and hands?
Apply olive oil on your hands and feet every night to avoid dry and flaky skin. Applying a moisturising lotion also does the trick. Use moisturisers from reputed companies as they have longer durability. Moisturising bars and glycerine-based soaps are also of great help too.
What about dandruff?
Winter is the time when dandruff strikes hard and again, it is mainly due to dry weather. Dandruff is basically nothing but dry scalp skin that flakes out. The key is to retain moisture in the scalp so that the skin doesn't peel off. Oil your hair twice a week and wash it with a good anti-dandruff shampoo with lukewarm water.
If I have oily skin, need I moisturise it?
Most people with oily skin have a wrong notion that they don't need moisturisers in winter. They feel that doing this will make their skin oilier. But even oily skin needs its own share of dampening. What you can do is use water-based moisturisers to avoid the blotchy look.
Simple solutions to three of your biggest winter hair worries:
Our hair has it rough all year long: But winter assaults hair in the worst ways. Read on for tips on how to beat the trickiest winter problems:
Problem: Dry, fuzzy ends
Solution: Schedule trims religiously -- every four to six weeks -- which prevents fried ends from getting worse. Stock up on a conditioner that's richer than your summer conditioner, and try an ultra-moisturising hair mask every week.
Problem: Static and flyaways
Solution: Spritz on a leave-in conditioner before you style, which helps to weigh hair down. When hair is dry, apply a small dab of shine serum with your hands, or mist on a light dose of hairspray. In the worst cases, rely on hairstylists' age-old solution: Spray a brush with Static-Guard, and run it through your hair.
Problem: Dullness
Solution: Ask your colourist to add a few highlights or apply a clear gloss to boost shine and luminosity. If you don't colour, use a gel or cream with silicone (a shine enhancer) before you style your hair.
Tips for beatiful skin
In today's world with competition and perfection being the most essential thing, it is imperative to look good. Make-up will help you to some extent but what is most important is natural beauty and a glowing skin. The major culprits that ruin and play havoc on our skin are ultraviolet rays, pollution and stress to some extent. However the most important thing for a glowing and a fresh look and skin is regular exercise and a balanced diet. However at the same time you also need to give your skin a little time for its care and here are a few tips for your skin care regime.
Cleansing
Your skin requires proper cleansing to keep it properly toned and clean. Cleansing removes the dust and stress from your face by cleaning the pores and circulating the blood supply. Use a gentle cleansing agent. Face washes are specially prepared to be effective at cleansing your skin gently and tenderly. For your body use a good mild and moisturizing soap.
Moisturizing
It is essential to use good moisturizers since the UV rays and pollution dries your skin thoroughly and makes it lifeless. There is a range of moisturizers available in the market to suit your skin type but what is important here is to pick the right one with the right components in it. Choose moisturizers, which have anti-aging ingredients and vitamins, added to it and use it regularly. Vitamin A or Retinol and Alphahydroxy Acids are the best anti-aging agents. There are several salts of vitamin A and isotretenioin is found to have definite anti-aging properties and is very effective. It is also an effective care for acne but it dries the skin and also can give mild irritation and hence has to be used under the supervision of dermatologist. Vitamin C is found to have antioxidants and thus has a protective effect on the skin. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and works by quenching oxygen radicals. Oxygen radicals are formed which causes damage to the skin because of pollution and ultraviolet rays. Collagen, Elastin and Hyaluronic Acid are all good moisturizers as they have a good water binding capacity. Ceramides work effectively on the skin barrier function as well as in the metabolism of the skin. However all these components have to be present in a proper concentration and then only can they be effective.
Sunscreens
With the rise in pollution level and the intensity of the ultraviolet rays it is very essential to use sunscreens during daytime to protect your skin form any kind of damage and premature wrinkles even if you are at home because these rays come in through the windows and there is no running away from it. The UVA ultraviolet rays penetrate deep down in the skin and damage not only the top layer of the skin called epidermis but also the collagen and elastin tissues thereby causing wrinkles and sagging skin. These rays tan your skin and also harms the skin immune system thereby making the skin vulnerable to allergies. Another type of UV-rays is UVB. The sunscreen you use should denote the sun protection factor (SPF) and the approximate measure for protection against UVB is 30 or higher is always better and also check out the protection measures against UVA.
Facials
Facial is also a vital step towards beautiful skin.Facial thoroughly cleanse your face and remove the top dead layers of the skin resulting into having a beautiful and glowing skin. Facial moisturizers your face effectively and help in faster cell reneval and relaxes the muscle of the face. Facial can also treat problems like dark patches, treating acne, restoring skin colour and toning the skin. Facial must be done at least once a month and by a professional beautician.
Cleansing
Your skin requires proper cleansing to keep it properly toned and clean. Cleansing removes the dust and stress from your face by cleaning the pores and circulating the blood supply. Use a gentle cleansing agent. Face washes are specially prepared to be effective at cleansing your skin gently and tenderly. For your body use a good mild and moisturizing soap.
Moisturizing
It is essential to use good moisturizers since the UV rays and pollution dries your skin thoroughly and makes it lifeless. There is a range of moisturizers available in the market to suit your skin type but what is important here is to pick the right one with the right components in it. Choose moisturizers, which have anti-aging ingredients and vitamins, added to it and use it regularly. Vitamin A or Retinol and Alphahydroxy Acids are the best anti-aging agents. There are several salts of vitamin A and isotretenioin is found to have definite anti-aging properties and is very effective. It is also an effective care for acne but it dries the skin and also can give mild irritation and hence has to be used under the supervision of dermatologist. Vitamin C is found to have antioxidants and thus has a protective effect on the skin. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and works by quenching oxygen radicals. Oxygen radicals are formed which causes damage to the skin because of pollution and ultraviolet rays. Collagen, Elastin and Hyaluronic Acid are all good moisturizers as they have a good water binding capacity. Ceramides work effectively on the skin barrier function as well as in the metabolism of the skin. However all these components have to be present in a proper concentration and then only can they be effective.
Sunscreens
With the rise in pollution level and the intensity of the ultraviolet rays it is very essential to use sunscreens during daytime to protect your skin form any kind of damage and premature wrinkles even if you are at home because these rays come in through the windows and there is no running away from it. The UVA ultraviolet rays penetrate deep down in the skin and damage not only the top layer of the skin called epidermis but also the collagen and elastin tissues thereby causing wrinkles and sagging skin. These rays tan your skin and also harms the skin immune system thereby making the skin vulnerable to allergies. Another type of UV-rays is UVB. The sunscreen you use should denote the sun protection factor (SPF) and the approximate measure for protection against UVB is 30 or higher is always better and also check out the protection measures against UVA.
Facials
Facial is also a vital step towards beautiful skin.Facial thoroughly cleanse your face and remove the top dead layers of the skin resulting into having a beautiful and glowing skin. Facial moisturizers your face effectively and help in faster cell reneval and relaxes the muscle of the face. Facial can also treat problems like dark patches, treating acne, restoring skin colour and toning the skin. Facial must be done at least once a month and by a professional beautician.
What is cosmetic allergy ?
Skin texture differs from person to person and some people have very sensitive skin and thus are allergic to certain cosmetics. However it is very difficult to determine what is actually causing the allergy or irritation. True allergic reactions are generally characterized by swelling and hive-like breakouts, and sometimes red, raw skin. Sensitive skins may be allergic to products like soaps and soap-like formulations (e.g., detergent-based shampoos). Dyes, formaldehyde (released in the finishing process), and polyester-blends in fabrics, such as clothing and bed linen. Essential oils used for aromatherapy, condoms, Vegetable plants, such as garlic, onion, tomatoes, ginger and carrot. Cosmetics can also cause allergy to your skin.
Always check out the following things before using any cosmetic:
* Applying too much cosmetics to your skin and using several new products simultaneously can be one reason of cosmetic allergy.
* Using used or dirty brushes or applicators also cause skin allergies. Avoid trying new makeup products with a brush or applicator still "dirty" from use with other products. For best results, frequently used applicators and brushes should be cleaned no less than 2-4 times per month. Thus always clean and dry cosmetic applicators before using them for any new products. If not taken care then you might suffer from "cosmetic acne", including blackheads, whiteheads and mild irritation.
* Also check out each cosmetic product before using them because they might be adulterated and contaminated causing skin allergies.
* Use proper brush for the particular product that you use because using wrong brush also causes skin irritation. For most makeup, use natural-hair brushes for easiest and best application. With cream-based formulas, however, best results will come from using synthetic or nylon-hair brushes because synthetic brushes hold less of the product, enabling more controlled application.
Take the following precautions
* If you have sensitive skin then always test the product on your skin before using it.
* Wash hands before applying cosmetics, especially to your eyes because your hands contain bacteria that could cause infection to the eye.
* Always keep a check on the expiry dates of the cosmetics you are using and throw the cosmetics that have expired.
Always check out the following things before using any cosmetic:
* Applying too much cosmetics to your skin and using several new products simultaneously can be one reason of cosmetic allergy.
* Using used or dirty brushes or applicators also cause skin allergies. Avoid trying new makeup products with a brush or applicator still "dirty" from use with other products. For best results, frequently used applicators and brushes should be cleaned no less than 2-4 times per month. Thus always clean and dry cosmetic applicators before using them for any new products. If not taken care then you might suffer from "cosmetic acne", including blackheads, whiteheads and mild irritation.
* Also check out each cosmetic product before using them because they might be adulterated and contaminated causing skin allergies.
* Use proper brush for the particular product that you use because using wrong brush also causes skin irritation. For most makeup, use natural-hair brushes for easiest and best application. With cream-based formulas, however, best results will come from using synthetic or nylon-hair brushes because synthetic brushes hold less of the product, enabling more controlled application.
Take the following precautions
* If you have sensitive skin then always test the product on your skin before using it.
* Wash hands before applying cosmetics, especially to your eyes because your hands contain bacteria that could cause infection to the eye.
* Always keep a check on the expiry dates of the cosmetics you are using and throw the cosmetics that have expired.
What is a face mask ?
A facial mask is the quickest and easiest way to boost your skin. These deep cleansers stimulate, refine and draw the impurities from the pores, to leave you with a radiant complexion.
Biotique as we all know is one of the pioneers in skin and hair care range. It has a wide variety of packs for all kinds of skin and for different problems. Clove oil and wild turmeric face pack helps in controlling pimples and other skin blemishes. And the fruit pack makes the skin fairer and firmer.
Then the fruit pack is a skin whitening and fairness pack. The juices of pineapple, tomato, lemon and papaya fruit leave the skin clear, youthful and fresh.
Oriflame offers creamy clay purifying masque for oily skin. It is a deep cleansing treatment with herbs and mineral clays to absorb excess oiliness. There is cucumber aloe hydrating masque which contains a rich blend of cucumber, aloe and moisturisers and it is meant for normal to dry skin.
The third variety is the citrus peel-off clarifying masque. It is a lemon scented gel with birch and camomile extract and forms a transparent film on the skin, which is gently peeled away.
Another player, lotus herbals offers jasta bhasam face pack for pimple and acne. It suits all skin types and its key ingredients are lemon peel, orange peel, zinc oxide, suhaga and alum.
Then there is also almond face mask for wrinkles. It tightens skin pores and removes wrinkles. The fruit mask is available in 200gms and 100gms sizes.
Blossom Kochhar’s beauty packs are also very popular. The glossy pack is meant for pigmented skin. It lightens pigmentation, dark rings around eyes and acne scars. The beauty pack is the rejuvenating treatment as its natural exfoliating agents tighten and firm skin, leaving it fresh and youthful. Then there is glow face pack which is a firming masque. It revitalises skin, lightens and removes blemishes. Seaweed pack is the hydrating masque, enriched with extracts of rare seaweed.
Kamini Jha, a low profile cosmetologist and scalpologist in Safdarjung Enclave who is quietly engaged in improving the skin of many by her special home made therapy. Kamini shares her creations by appointment only through a range of herbal mixtures, pastes, lotions, packs and oils which she hands out under the brand name ´Keshika´.
Twenty four carat natures gold beautifying mask is a special product from Shahnaz Group. Then there is a home pack from Shahnaz basket. A highly specialised combination, this pack has been in use in clinical and home treatments for over 25 years.
So now do you realise how important it is to apply face packs? Yes, you will unmask a youthful face for sure. What else does one want?
Biotique as we all know is one of the pioneers in skin and hair care range. It has a wide variety of packs for all kinds of skin and for different problems. Clove oil and wild turmeric face pack helps in controlling pimples and other skin blemishes. And the fruit pack makes the skin fairer and firmer.
Then the fruit pack is a skin whitening and fairness pack. The juices of pineapple, tomato, lemon and papaya fruit leave the skin clear, youthful and fresh.
Oriflame offers creamy clay purifying masque for oily skin. It is a deep cleansing treatment with herbs and mineral clays to absorb excess oiliness. There is cucumber aloe hydrating masque which contains a rich blend of cucumber, aloe and moisturisers and it is meant for normal to dry skin.
The third variety is the citrus peel-off clarifying masque. It is a lemon scented gel with birch and camomile extract and forms a transparent film on the skin, which is gently peeled away.
Another player, lotus herbals offers jasta bhasam face pack for pimple and acne. It suits all skin types and its key ingredients are lemon peel, orange peel, zinc oxide, suhaga and alum.
Then there is also almond face mask for wrinkles. It tightens skin pores and removes wrinkles. The fruit mask is available in 200gms and 100gms sizes.
Blossom Kochhar’s beauty packs are also very popular. The glossy pack is meant for pigmented skin. It lightens pigmentation, dark rings around eyes and acne scars. The beauty pack is the rejuvenating treatment as its natural exfoliating agents tighten and firm skin, leaving it fresh and youthful. Then there is glow face pack which is a firming masque. It revitalises skin, lightens and removes blemishes. Seaweed pack is the hydrating masque, enriched with extracts of rare seaweed.
Kamini Jha, a low profile cosmetologist and scalpologist in Safdarjung Enclave who is quietly engaged in improving the skin of many by her special home made therapy. Kamini shares her creations by appointment only through a range of herbal mixtures, pastes, lotions, packs and oils which she hands out under the brand name ´Keshika´.
Twenty four carat natures gold beautifying mask is a special product from Shahnaz Group. Then there is a home pack from Shahnaz basket. A highly specialised combination, this pack has been in use in clinical and home treatments for over 25 years.
So now do you realise how important it is to apply face packs? Yes, you will unmask a youthful face for sure. What else does one want?
Tips on homemade facials
Following are a few homemade facials that will help make your skin beautiful and vibrant.
Citrus and grapefruit mask for oily skin type:
Ingredients:
grapefruit
lemon's juice
cored apple
1-2 egg whites
30-40 seedless grapes
Mix ingredients together in a blender. Apply on your face and leave for fifteen minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Grapefruit unclogs pores and lemon is an excellent astringent and clarifier, while egg whites tighten the skin. Expect a tingle with this mask-that means its working but if your skin is dry it could start to burn. If this occurs, wash it off immediately.
Fruit Masque for dehydrated skin:
Ingredients:
1 cup of mixed mashed fruit (try melon, peaches, strawberries, and bananas)
2-3 Tbsp. Double cream
3 tsp. cottage cheese
1 tsp. brown sugar
4 tsp. oatmeal powder
Blend all the ingredients together and apply on your face. Relax for ten minutes, and rinse off with warm water.
The luscious combination of cream and juicy fruits works wonders after a hot day in the sun and helps refresh the skin.
Honey Mask
Ingredients:
1 tbsp. honey
1 egg white
2 tsp. glycerin
1/3 cup flour
Whisk the honey, egg white and glycerin, and then add the flour. The result should be a thick paste. Apply to face and rinse after 15 minutes This mask effectively moisturizes and tightens the skin, making it smooth and soft.
Egg Mask
Ingredients:
1 egg white
Separate the egg white from the yolk. Put the egg white on your face and relax for about 15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water.
This mask leaves your skin smooth, refreshed and tightens your skin.
Ingredients:
Egg yolk
Separate the yolk from the egg white. Mix the yolk and apply over clean skin. Let it set for about 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
The egg yolk acts as an ant-oxidant and does wonders for your complexion as it pulls impurities out of your skin, leaving it soft and healthy.
Yoghurt Moisturizing Mask
Ingredients:
Plain yoghurt
Smooth yoghurt over your face and let it set for about 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
This mask is super-simple and will add lots of moisture to your skin. Especially a treat to people having dry skin. Plus, it's great for those of us who hate spending time in the kitchen and want something that's quick to prepare and easy to make.
Egg and Honey Facial
Ingredients:
1 egg yolk
1 tsp. honey
1 tsp. vitamin E oil
1 tsp. almond oil
Mix all ingredients together, stirring until smooth. To use, apply to face and rinse with warm water after 15 minutes.
This easy mask is suitable for all skin types. It clarifies and moisturizes the skin, leaving it cleansed and silken. Egg yolks contain anti-oxidants, which are very beneficial to our skin.
Vegetable Mask
Ingredients:
1/2 tomato, mashed (remove seeds and skin)
2 tsp. curd
1 tsp. mashed cucumber
3-4 tsp. oatmeal powder
3 crushed mint leaves.
Mix ingredients together and apply on your face. Wait for ten minutes, and then wash off with warm water.
This mask works well for oily skin, since it absorbs the surplus oils. Tomatoes are excellent anti-oxidants, and the curd prevents excessive drying.
Fruity Facials
Ingredients:
Strawberry
Crush strawberry and apply on face and leave it on for 2/3 minutes and then rinse with plenty of water.
Strawberry is rich in vitamin c and is very refreshing for your skin. However some people are allergic to strawberry so before applyinh test it on your skin and if there is any irritation then do not apply.
Ingredients:
Papaya
Crush papaya and apply on face and leave it on for 5 minutes. Rinse off with plenty of water.
Papayas contain an enzyme 'papain', which is useful in exfoliating the skin.
Ingredients:
Watermelon
Crush watermelon and apply on the face for 5 minutes and then rinse. Watermelon cleanses the skin.
Additional Homemade Facials
* Mix 1 1/2 teaspoons honey, the juice from 1/2 of a lemon, and 3-tablespoon yoghurt. Stir in 1 whipped egg white. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* Make a paste from a little oatmeal and water. Apply to face and let it dry. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* Mash half of an avocado and apply to entire face. Let set for about 20 minutes and then wash off.
* Mash 1/2 banana and add 1-tablespoon honey and 2 tablespoons sour cream. Apply to face and let set for about 10 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* Two tablespoons of cornmeal mixed with enough water to make a thick paste makes a great inexpensive facial mask. Gently apply to face and wash off.
* Soak 1 cup dried apricots in water until softened. Puree in blender or food processor with 2 tablespoons skim milk powder. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* In a food processor or blender, combine 1/2 cucumber, 1-tablespoon yoghurt, a few strawberries, and 1-teaspoon honey. Apply to face and let it dry. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* To loosen blackheads, combine equal parts baking soda and water in your hand and rub gently on your skin for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Citrus and grapefruit mask for oily skin type:
Ingredients:
grapefruit
lemon's juice
cored apple
1-2 egg whites
30-40 seedless grapes
Mix ingredients together in a blender. Apply on your face and leave for fifteen minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Grapefruit unclogs pores and lemon is an excellent astringent and clarifier, while egg whites tighten the skin. Expect a tingle with this mask-that means its working but if your skin is dry it could start to burn. If this occurs, wash it off immediately.
Fruit Masque for dehydrated skin:
Ingredients:
1 cup of mixed mashed fruit (try melon, peaches, strawberries, and bananas)
2-3 Tbsp. Double cream
3 tsp. cottage cheese
1 tsp. brown sugar
4 tsp. oatmeal powder
Blend all the ingredients together and apply on your face. Relax for ten minutes, and rinse off with warm water.
The luscious combination of cream and juicy fruits works wonders after a hot day in the sun and helps refresh the skin.
Honey Mask
Ingredients:
1 tbsp. honey
1 egg white
2 tsp. glycerin
1/3 cup flour
Whisk the honey, egg white and glycerin, and then add the flour. The result should be a thick paste. Apply to face and rinse after 15 minutes This mask effectively moisturizes and tightens the skin, making it smooth and soft.
Egg Mask
Ingredients:
1 egg white
Separate the egg white from the yolk. Put the egg white on your face and relax for about 15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water.
This mask leaves your skin smooth, refreshed and tightens your skin.
Ingredients:
Egg yolk
Separate the yolk from the egg white. Mix the yolk and apply over clean skin. Let it set for about 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
The egg yolk acts as an ant-oxidant and does wonders for your complexion as it pulls impurities out of your skin, leaving it soft and healthy.
Yoghurt Moisturizing Mask
Ingredients:
Plain yoghurt
Smooth yoghurt over your face and let it set for about 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
This mask is super-simple and will add lots of moisture to your skin. Especially a treat to people having dry skin. Plus, it's great for those of us who hate spending time in the kitchen and want something that's quick to prepare and easy to make.
Egg and Honey Facial
Ingredients:
1 egg yolk
1 tsp. honey
1 tsp. vitamin E oil
1 tsp. almond oil
Mix all ingredients together, stirring until smooth. To use, apply to face and rinse with warm water after 15 minutes.
This easy mask is suitable for all skin types. It clarifies and moisturizes the skin, leaving it cleansed and silken. Egg yolks contain anti-oxidants, which are very beneficial to our skin.
Vegetable Mask
Ingredients:
1/2 tomato, mashed (remove seeds and skin)
2 tsp. curd
1 tsp. mashed cucumber
3-4 tsp. oatmeal powder
3 crushed mint leaves.
Mix ingredients together and apply on your face. Wait for ten minutes, and then wash off with warm water.
This mask works well for oily skin, since it absorbs the surplus oils. Tomatoes are excellent anti-oxidants, and the curd prevents excessive drying.
Fruity Facials
Ingredients:
Strawberry
Crush strawberry and apply on face and leave it on for 2/3 minutes and then rinse with plenty of water.
Strawberry is rich in vitamin c and is very refreshing for your skin. However some people are allergic to strawberry so before applyinh test it on your skin and if there is any irritation then do not apply.
Ingredients:
Papaya
Crush papaya and apply on face and leave it on for 5 minutes. Rinse off with plenty of water.
Papayas contain an enzyme 'papain', which is useful in exfoliating the skin.
Ingredients:
Watermelon
Crush watermelon and apply on the face for 5 minutes and then rinse. Watermelon cleanses the skin.
Additional Homemade Facials
* Mix 1 1/2 teaspoons honey, the juice from 1/2 of a lemon, and 3-tablespoon yoghurt. Stir in 1 whipped egg white. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* Make a paste from a little oatmeal and water. Apply to face and let it dry. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* Mash half of an avocado and apply to entire face. Let set for about 20 minutes and then wash off.
* Mash 1/2 banana and add 1-tablespoon honey and 2 tablespoons sour cream. Apply to face and let set for about 10 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* Two tablespoons of cornmeal mixed with enough water to make a thick paste makes a great inexpensive facial mask. Gently apply to face and wash off.
* Soak 1 cup dried apricots in water until softened. Puree in blender or food processor with 2 tablespoons skim milk powder. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* In a food processor or blender, combine 1/2 cucumber, 1-tablespoon yoghurt, a few strawberries, and 1-teaspoon honey. Apply to face and let it dry. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
* To loosen blackheads, combine equal parts baking soda and water in your hand and rub gently on your skin for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
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