Beauties Beauty Tips

Few Simple Tips To Have Shiny & Soft Hair...

2008-01-24T06:28:00.000-08:00

Shiny Hair is healthy hair. It’s hard to keep hair shiny and healthy when you use a hair dryer, curling iron, flat iron, hair color and other styling tools and techniques that rough up your hair cuticles.

It’s a roughed up cuticle that makes hair look dull. A smooth hair cuticle looks like a roof under a microscope, with all the singles neatly lying flat. Smooth cuticles are shiny because l igth reflects off smooth surfaces. But dry it-and curl and color it-and before you know it, your hair is dull.

Here Are Ways To Bring Back The Shine:

1. Eat right: Feed your hair lots of protein! Lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, and low-fat dairy products will help make your hair healthy. Eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, avocados , flax seed and almonds. “ It takes six month for your new diet to make your hair shine”.

2. Clean up! Banish the buildup of all those hair products you use-from hair spray to mousse. Kingsley recommends using a clarifying shampoo once a week, or try this homemade recipe: Add one tablespoon of baking soda to two tablespoons of your shampoo. The baking soda will remove sticky residue from your hair.

3. Use conditioner: Use a conditioning product every time you shampoo.

4. Blot it: When you get out of the shower and dry your hair, squeeze and blot it. Don’t rub it as the friction roughs up the cuticles.

5. Cool off: Before blow-drying your hair, use a heat resistant product to seal in shine and prevent damage from the dryer’s high temperature. Every occasionally use the cool setting on your dryer.

6. Sleep on satin: Satiny hair needs satiny pillowcases. Look at it this way. When you’re asleep your head is about nine pounds of deadweight. Friction from tossing and turning can create frizz. Satin pillowcases reduce the friction.

7. Brush with boar: Plastics can break your hair. Use only boar bristle brushes, which are superior for smoothing hair and disturbing natural oils.

Basic Beauty Tips To Have A Glowing Skin...

2008-01-24T06:27:00.000-08:00

The basic beauty tips to have a glowing skin are as follows:

1. When out in the sun or indoors in a summer morning, use a sunscreen lotion with a minimum SPF 30.

2. Give-up smoking if you want to say a final good-bye to ageing.

3. Please drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and to reduce wrinkles.

4. Use retinoic acid daily to save your skin from sun damage and ageing.

5. A regular intake of Vitamin C, preferably in terms of fruits will provide you with natural collagen.

6. Use a moisturizer with SPF combination daily to keep your skin hydrated

You can bet on these for a naturally glowing skin that says no to any artificial repairs.

Ways To Lose Those Extra Pounds...

2008-01-21T06:24:00.000-08:00

A lot of us live our lives like penned animals. Built to move, too often we put ourselves in a cage. We have bodies designed for racing across the savannas, but we live a lifestyle designed for migrating from the bed to the breakfast table; to the car seat; to the office chair; to the restaurant booth; to the living room couch and back to the bed.

Today, our daily obligations of work and home keep us tied to our chairs, and if we want exercise, we have to seek it out.

In fact, health experts insist that obesity problem is probably caused at least as much by lack of physical activity as by eating too much. Hence, it is important that people need to move around.

However, that does not mean that a lap or two around the old high school track will offset a daily dose of junk food. Exercise alone is not very efficient, experts say. They contend that if you just exercise and do not change your diet, you may be able to prevent weight gain or even lose a few pounds for a while.

Nevertheless, it is not something that you are likely to sustain unless exercise is part of an overall program. The more regularly you exercise, the easier it is to maintain your weight. Here is what to do every day to make sure that you get the exercise you need.

1. Get quality Zzzs:

Make sure that you get adequate sleep. Good sleep habits are conducive to exercise, experts point out. If you feel worn out during the day, you are less likely to get much physical activity during the day.

In addition, there is evidence that people who are tired tend to eat more, using food as a substance for the rest they need.

2. Walk the walk:

It is probably the easiest exercise program of all. In fact, it may be all you ever have to do, according to some professional advices of some health experts.

Gradually build up to at least 30 minutes of brisk walking five times a week. Brisk walks themselves have health and psychological benefits that are well worth the while.

3. Walk the treadmill:

When the weather is bad, you might not feel like going outdoors. But if you have a treadmill in the television room, you can catch up on your favorite shows while you are doing your daily good turn for your weight-maintenance plan.

Most of us watch television anyway, and indoor exercise equipment enables anyone to turn a sedentary activity into a healthy walk.

4. Seize the time:

Excuses aside, lack of time is certainly a limiting factor in most lifestyles. That is why health experts suggest a basic guideline for incorporating exercise into your schedule.

Get as much exercise as you can that feels good without letting it interfere with your work or family life. If you need to, remind yourself that you are preventing many health problems when you prevent weight gain; and keeping your health is a gift to your family as well as yourself.

Tips for Dry Skin Care...

2008-01-20T08:42:00.000-08:00

During the cold months of the year is when many people experience "winter itch," caused by dry, flaky skin.

How To Avoid Winter Itch:

* Moisturize daily. Cream moisturizers are best for normal to dry skin. A moisturizer without perfume or lanolin is best for sensitive skin.

* Don't overdo skin cleansing. Once a day is sufficient to wash your face, hands, feet and between the folds of your skin. You can rinse your trunk, arms and legs daily, but don't use cleanser or soap on these areas every day. Too much cleansing removes the skin's natural moisturizers.

* If you have winter itch, take short, lukewarm showers or baths and use non-irritating, non-detergent-based cleansers. Immediately after your shower or bath, apply a water-in-oil-type moisturizer and gently pat your skin dry.

* Household humidifiers can help prevent dry skin.

* Protect yourself from the wind by covering your face and using a natural oil based lip balm.

* Try to avoid extreme cold, which can cause frostbite or skin disorders in some people.

* Protect your skin from the sun. Winter sun can be as dangerous as summer sun. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or greater.

* Twenty to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week can give your skin a healthy glow.

* If you have persistent dry skin, itching or scaling, see your dermatologist.

Hair Styling Tips Of Hollywood Celebrities...

2008-01-20T08:41:00.000-08:00

Here is an opportunity to gain inside information on the hottest celebrity hair styling that can be equally practiced by both men and women.

Celebrity hair styling is a good combination of style and health, they are equally balanced in the health of the hair and a stylish outlook.

Given below are some great trendsetting, celebrity hair styling tips practiced by famous Hollywood beauties.

Angelina Jolie:

Angelina Jolie is one of the famous Hollywood actresses who is known for her voluminous hair. If you want to follow the same hair styling as that of Angelina Jolie then follow the steps:

* Trim your hair into long layers. The hair will look voluminous and also the weight will be reduced.

* Wash and condition your hair with a nutritious shampoo.

* Dry the hair with a towel. Apply hard holding gel or glaze at the hair follicles or root area.

* Dry your hair with the help of the electronic dryer. Keep moving your dryer on both the directions or anyway you feel will add volume to your hair.

* Divide your hair into 6-7 sections. Curl them with a large curling iron. It will create waves in your hair.

* Separate the curly hair waves with your fingers.

* In order to avoid a fine texture to your hair, apply hair crème or pomade.

* Take a small amount of crème in your hand and rub the pomade dipped hands together . Then run your fingers across the hair many times. This will separate the hairs from one anotherand the cream will add volume.

* The curls that fall in front of your face take them back by using a hair brush.

* Use a little pomade on the front curls to keep it back along with the rest of the hair.

* You can apply hair spray which will enhance control over your hair.

Angelina Jolie prefers a dark chocolate tinge to the hair. This approach is typical of woman hair styles and not only adds glow to the face but also highlights the curls.

Man hairstyles:

Just as there are many woman hairstyles, there are several interesting man hairstyles too. According to the fashion and beauty experts male Hollywood stars are more inclined towards longer hair. They are trying to move away from the stereotype short hair of the 90s. Now the preferred length of hair of the current Hollywood stars is down to the tops of the shoulders.

Though the trendy man hair styles have increased in its length to about 4-6 inches more but they still prefer waves and curls on their hair. The spike and crazy man hair style is worn over and the Hollywood stars are opting for more controlled and fresh look.

The male Hollywood celebrities like Brad Pitt and Matt Damon usually prefer light colored hair. Brad Pitt opts for different hues of brown color. The popular man hair styles in Hollywood are more inclined towards hair color that goes well with their skin tone.

In both man and woman hair styles, celebrity hair styling plays an important role and is setting the trend for the years to come.

Some people have a misconception that while imitating the hair styling tips of the celebrities, they may have to expose their hair to potentially harmful chemically formulated styling products, but it is not so.

Even the celebrities are becoming more and more aware of the use of natural hair growth products and using them more often.

So follow this tip to use all the natural ingredients like olive oil, organic beeswax, mango butter, babassu oil, jojoba, wheat germ oil, essential oils of bay laurel, cedar atlas, fir balsam and massoia and Vitamin A, C & E to take care of your hair naturally.

Good hair is ideal for any hair style, be it celebrity hair styling or any ordinary everyday man or woman hair styles.

A Model's Secret (Beauties Beauty Tips)

2008-01-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

What happens when you gather some of the world’s most divine beauties under one roof? They share beauty tips, of course.

Indian supermodels show us just how they do it back home, but not without packing their favourite beauty products for the journey.

Ami Vashi - Femina Miss India World 2003

Beauty secret :: I do Yoga which helps me calm down, because stress always affects beauty. Which is why my skin is kept in good condition and not spotty. Why leave it for foundation to sort it out when you can just have a clear complexion to start with?
Magic product :: Every girl needs her kajol. But you need to know how to apply it otherwise you damage your eyes – don’t share sticks, kids!
Handbag essential :: St Ives hand cream, it keeps my hands very soft.Can’t live without :: My cleanser, to keep my skin clean and fresh.
Must have :: My lip-gloss. Lips are good for the look and the spirit. If your lips are feeling gorgeous and full, you will want to smile more.
Beauty tip :: Drink lots of water. It’s cheap, cheerful and thankfully nowadays, considered chic!

Gauhar Khan - Former Femina Miss India

Beauty secret :: If you are beautiful, you are beautiful, that’s all there is to it. There’s no big secret. All make-up can do is enhance what you’ve already got. For a magic transformation, you’ll need a cosmetic surgeon not cosmetics!
Magic product :: MAC products and Body Shop body butter cream are amongst the greatest things that have ever been invented. After the wheel and, perhaps, penicillin!
Handbag essential :: Perfume. I have so many I can’t choose. Issey Miyake is usually the one that suits my mood the most. Or at least at the moment.
Can’t live without :: My face powder from Maybelline.
Must have :: As in what product could I not live without? I don’t think any product is worth killing yourself over. If there is such a thing, it’s probably best not to know what it is!
Beauty tip :: Drink eight glasses of water daily.

Shonali Nagrani - Femina Miss India International 2003

Beauty secret :: Don’t smoke, eat lots of fruit and vegetables and avoid late nights. Beauty products help you improve your natural beauty, so it helps if you look good to start off with.
Magic product :: Aloe vera gel, it’s great for the skin. I can’t stress how important good skin is.
Handbag essential :: My gloss. A girl just can’t sparkle without it…Can’t live without :: My transparent mascara – it’s natural to the point where it almost looks real.
Must have :: Aromatherapy oils, it always helps me relax and be calm.
Beauty tip :: I regularly take B-complex vitamins to keep my skin looking radiant.

Tina Chhatwal - Former Femina Miss India

Beauty secret :: My fitness training. A lot of models will tell you they don’t need to do a single thing to look as good as they do, but come on! If you want something to look good you’ve got to take care of it.
Magic product :: Neutrogena face wash, keeps me spot free. There’s nothing more depressing than a visible spot, nothing more magical than making it vanish.
Handbag essential :: CK perfume, lip gloss from Body Shop and my MAC studio fix.
Can’t live without :: My lip gloss. Your mouth is so important – you smile with it, talk through it, kiss with it – your lips are the most inviting, enticing part of your face.
Must have :: Mineral water.
Beauty tip :: Use good products, moisturise your skin well, drink lots of water and eat fruits.

Care To Be Taken For Oily Skin...

2008-01-20T08:39:00.000-08:00

Oily skin is caused by over-active glands, which produce too much sebum. Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands. It is necessary as it helps lubricate your skin and carries away dead skin cells. When the skin is oily, too much sebum is being produced. This article tells you:

* What are the problems faced by people having oily skin?
* How food intake and oily skin are associated?
* What causes oily skin?

The right oily skin care is essential for anyone with oily skin. Oily skin does not look healthy and is prone to skin problems like acne. It is important that such skin be given proper treatment for oily skin.

What is oily skin and how is it caused?

Oily skin is caused by over-active glands, which produce too much sebum. Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands. It is necessary as it helps lubricate your skin and carries away dead skin cells. When the skin is oily, too much sebum is being produced. The skin becomes dull and greasy and pores may become clogged.

The extra secretion of sebum can be caused by many factors. Heredity, diet, birth control pills and the wrong cosmetics can all cause oily skin. Hormonal balances can also affect the production of sebum, which is why oily skin is often common in teenagers, pregnant women or women going through menopause.

Problems Faced by People with Oily Skin:

People with oily skin often suffer from skin problems, like blemishes, acnes, black heads, white heads and pimples. Enlarged and clogged pores may be a problem. Oily skin often looks dull and shiny. With the right oily skin treatment, it is possible to treat such problems.

How to have less oily skin:

Oily skin, and the problems it brings, can be minimized. Thorough cleansing can prevent some of the problems associated with oily skin, as it removes the dirt and dust and stops the pores becoming clogged. As make-up can also clog pores, it is important that all make-up is removed before going to bed. Here are some more tips on how to have less oily skin.

NATURAL METHODS:

Natural oily skin care can be very effective. Food intake, proper hydration, herbal care and other natural remedies can all help provide the proper treatment for oily skin.

Food Intake:

To improve your oily skin through nutrition, eat plenty of foods that are rich in protein. Include lots of leafy vegetables and fresh fruit. Vitamin B2 can help prevent oily skin, so include good sources of B2 by eating wheat germs, whole grains, beans and nuts.

Cut down on the amount of sugar and fat in your diet, and avoid soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, chocolate and fried food.

Hydration:

People sometimes make the mistake that oily skin does not need to be hydrated, but oil is not moisture. Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water. A good moisturizer, that is suited to oily skin, can also help keep your oily skin hydrated.

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2008-01-20T08:22:00.000-08:00

Homemade Cleansing Creams:

1. Almond cleansing cream:

Ingredients:

* White bee wax - 120 gm
* Almond oil - 500 ml
* Rose water - 1 cup
* Borax powder - 1 teaspoon

Heat the bee wax in a saucepan. When it melts, add almond oil, borax powder and rose water. Mix them thoroughly and keep stirring till the mixture cools. It can be refrigerated for a long time.

2. Almond cleansing cream:

Ingredients:

* Sweet almond oil - 1 cup
* Bitter almond oil - 1 cup
* Sodium benzoate - 1 teaspoon
* Honey dew soap - 30 gm

Mix all the ingredients except sodium benzoate over a low flame. When the mixture cools down, add sodium benzoate. Store it in a bottle under refrigeration.

3. Almond cleansing cream:

Ingredients:

* Sweet almond oil - 1 cup
* Ground almond - 120 gm
* Egg yolk - 4 eggs
* Honey - 250 gm
* Sodium benzoate - 1 teaspoon

Beat egg yolk and honey. Mix almond oil and powder making them into a paste. Now blend the beaten egg and honey to the paste of almond oil and add sodium benzoate too. This cream can be kept under refrigeration for 1 – 2 months.

4. Cucumber cleansing cream:

Ingredients:

* Bee wax - 30 gm
* Spermaceti - 30 gm
* Olive oil - 500 ml
* Cucumber juice - ½ cup
* Sodium benzoate - 1 teaspoon

Put a bowl in an open pot filled with boiling water. Pour spermaceti and bee wax in the bowl. After they have melted remove the bowl from the pot. Pour olive oil and cucumber juice. Keep stirring. While the mixture is still warm, add sodium benzoate.

5. Oatmeal cleansing cream:

Ingredients:

* Buttermilk - ½ cup
* Oatmeal - 60 gm
* Sodium benzoate - 1 teaspoon

Mix sodium benzoate in the buttermilk and add oatmeal to the mixture. Make a fine paste and the cleansing cream is prepared.

(Buttermilk is residue liquid from which butter has been separated)

6. Chamomile cleansing cream:

Ingredients:

* Chamomile flowers - 50 gm
* Distilled water - 500 ml
* Lemon juice - 1 teaspoon
* Sodium benzoate - ½ teaspoon

Put chamomile flowers and water in a saucepan over a low flame for 10 – 15 minutes. Strain and let it cool. Add lemon juice and sodium benzoate. Keep it in a bottle under refrigeration.

7. Rose petal cleansing cream:

Ingredients:
* 50 gm rose petals
* 500 ml distilled water
* 1 teaspoon lemon juice
* ½ teaspoon sodium benzoate

Pour hot distilled water over the rose petals, and keep on low flame for 10 minutes. Strain and cool. Add the lemon juice and sodium benzoate. Stir well and keep in a refrigerator.

Causes & Symptoms Of Dandruff...

2008-01-09T14:59:00.000-08:00

When the hair is combed or brushed, or when the scalp is scracthed, the scales from the scalp fall like snowfall and settle on the eye brows, shoulders and the clothes . These scales sometimes appear as lumps or crusts on the scalp. often there is itching as well and the scalp may become red from scratching The main causes of dandruff are impairment of general health, development of toxic condition mainly due to taking of wrong foods, constipation, and a low vitality due to infectious diseases. Other factors contributing to this disorder are emotional tensions, harsh shampoos,exposure to cold, and general exhuastion

SOME NATURAL REMEDIES TO COMBAT DANDRUFF:

* FENUGREEK SEEDS - THE USE OF FENUGREEK SEEDS IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT REMEDIES IN THE TREATMENT OF DANDRUFF. 2 TBSP OF THESE SEEDS SHOULD BE SOAKED OVERNIGHT IN WATER AND GROUND INTO A FINE PASTE IN THE MORNING. THIS PASTE SHOULD BE APPLIED ALL OVER THE SCALP AND LEFT FOR HALF AN HOUR. THE HAIR SHOULD THEN BE WASHED THOROUGHLY WITH SOAP-NUT SOLUTION OR SHIKAKAI.

* LIME- THE USE OF A FRSH TEASPOON OF FRESH LIME JUICE FOR THE LAST RINSE, WHILE WASHING YOUR HAIR, IS ANOTHER USEFUL REMEDY. THIS NOT ONLY LEAVES THE HAIR GLOWING BUT ALSO REMOVES THE STICKINESS AND REMOVES THE DANDRUFF

* GREEN GRAM POWDER- A VALUABLE PRESCRITION FOR REMOVAL OF DANDRUFF IS THE USE OF GREEN GRAM POWDER. THE HAIR SHOULD BE WASHED TWICE A WEEK WITH YWO TABLESPOONS OF THIS POWDER MIXED WITH HALF CUP OF CURD

* BEET- BEETS HAVE BEEN FOUND USEFUL IN DANDRUFF. BOTH TOPS AND ROOTS SHOULD BE TAKEN IN WATER AND BOILED AND THIS WATER SHOULD BE USED TO MASSAGE THE SCALP EVERY NIGHT. WHITE BEET IS BETEER FOR THIS PURPOSE

* SNAKE GOURD- THE JUICE OF SNAKE GOURD HAS BEEN FOUND BENEFICIAL IN THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF DANDRUFF. THE JUICE SHOULD BE RUBBED OVER THE SCALP FOR THIS PURPOSE.

HOMEMADE FACE PACKS FOR DRY SKIN

2008-01-06T03:47:00.000-08:00

Face Packs for Dry Skin:

Mint face pack:

Ingredients:

* Take one teaspoon of mint powder
* One tablespoon of yogurt
* One tablespoon of multani mitti

Soak multani mitti and mint powder in yoghurt for half an hour. Then mix them well by beating. Apply it on face for 15 minutes and leave it to dry. When dried wash off with lukewarm water. Then rinse by cold water.

Egg face pack:

Ingredients:

* Egg yolk of one egg
* One teaspoon of milk powder
* Half teaspoon of honey

Beat the egg yolk, mix the milk powder and honey in it. Beat again. When a paste of medium thickness is obtained, apply it on the face. When it is dry, wash off with lukewarm water.

HOW TO GROW STRONGER & LONGER NAILS

2008-01-06T03:38:00.000-08:00

There are few things more frustrating than spending a half an hour getting a manicure or painstakingly giving yourself one just to have your nails break. Or when your nail polish chips before the end of the afternoon. Or maybe there are more irritating things, but when faced with a chipped nail or nail paint, few will spring to mind.

To avoid chipping polish, make sure you apply your manicure correctly. Start with clean, dry nails. Buff them before you apply anything and make sure that any old polish is completely removed. Next, apply a base coat. Use long strokes starting at the base of nail and go all the way out to the tip. Start in the middle of the nail and then fill in the sides with similar long strokes. After that dries, apply one thin layer of nail polish and then another coat after that dries. The emphasis is on ‘thin' layers. Thick layers tend to chip easier. After the second layer of nail polish has dried, apply a top coat to seal it. Re-applying a top coat every couple of days will help preserve your manicure with minimal effort.

Regular nail maintenance, whether or not it is followed by 4 or 5 rounds of polish, is necessary to keep your nails looking good. Keep them trimmed in a nice rounded shape that mirrors the half moons at the base of your nail, push back the cuticles, and apply a clear coat of polish if you like. Don't bite them! Use a nail file if they need shaping and if you prefer longer nails, paint underneath with clear polish once a week.

A FEW TIPS:

Add a few of these tricks to your nail care repertoire and you will see your nails grow stronger and longer than they have ever been before.

* Massage your nails: Yes, even nails need a massage, and we don't mean the cuticle; we're talking the actual nail itself. Massage stimulates the blood flow in your nails just as it does in every other part of your body, which keeps them growing and healthy.

* Avoid acrylic nails: They only make your real nails weaker. The goal is to get to where you need less maintenance – not more. Acrylic nails are pretty high maintenance - not to mention expensive.

* Drink lots of water: Water is nature's magic elixir. Brittle nails, like dull hair and dry skin, start with dehydration. You will eliminate the problem at its root by supplementing any other nail care with a good 2 liter bottle of water (at least) every day.

* Moisturize your hands regularly : Some use nail creams tailored specifically for the purpose of moisturizing your nails. Other use hand cream and make sure that their nails are liberally covered. Still others swear by soaking their hands in olive oil. Whatever you prefer, do it often. Your hands need hydrating inside and out and your moisturizing potion of choice will take care of the outside the way water takes care of the inside.

* Calcium and vitamin D : A regular serving of yogurt and non fat milk will give you the calcium necessary to keep your hair, teeth, and nails growing healthily. The vitamin D usually comes along with it as it is necessary for your body to process the calcium. Take a multi-vitamin daily just to be on the safe side.

Scrub For Fair Complexion...

2008-01-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

Scrub for skin fairness – Fair Complexion

* A complexion scrub works wonders and leaves your skin with a healthy, shining glow.

* complexion scrub is an effective means of removing the dead cells from the surface of the skin.

* The slightly, abrasive tiny grains present in a scrub,stimulates and gently sloughs away dead and flaky skin.

* Afresh, smooth look is left behind.

* A complexion scrub must be used once a week to loosen ingrained impurities from the pores.

For dry skin: a scrub once a month, will suffice. Scrubs are an excellent product

For oily skin: Scrubs are an excellent product

Home made scrubs.

1. Wheat germ scrub:

Ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon oatmeal powder
* 1 tablespoon wheat germ (powder)
* 1 tablespoon skimmed milk powder
* 1 teaspoon sandal wood powder.

Method: Mix the ingredients together and fill in a small muslin bag. Dip the muslin bag in lukewarm water and gently rub on to face and neck for atleast fifteen minutes. Use circular movements. Wash off with tepid water.

2. Green gram scrub

Ingredients :

* 4 tablespoons green gram powder
* 2 tablespoons besan
* 2 teaspoons sandal wood powder

Method: Combine all ingredients together and store in airtight container.

3. Complexion scrub

Ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon ground almond
* 1 tablespoon orange peel powder
* 1 teaspoon ground oatmeal

Method: Grate orange peel and dry it. Powder the orange peel. Combine together all the three powders and store in an airtight container.

Muslin bag:

You may make a small muslin bag to hold your scrub. Take a 6 inch X 6 inch piece of muslin cloth and fold into halves stitch up three sides and leave out an opening. After filling muslin bag with scrub you may tie the loose ends tight with a rubber band.

Abrasives:

• Combine together lemon juice, sugar and glycerin to make an effective facial abrasive.
• Massage in a teaspoon of sugar along with pears soap.

This mild abrasive removes dead cells from the surface of the skin, leaving skin clean and glowing.

Deep Cleansing:

Atleast once a week, a deep cleansing routine is a must for a clear complexion. Cleanse your face using a cleanser. Apply massage oil or cold cream and follow this with a facial massage.

Dry & Chapped Hands Remedies...

2007-12-31T14:57:00.000-08:00

Homemade Chapped Balm Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup Cocoa Butter
1 cup Shea Butter
1/2 cup Jojoba Oil
1/4 cup Beeswax

Directions:

* If you have a large enough Pyrex measuring cup, place ingredients in that or just use a deep casserole dish of some kind. Loosely cover the top with foil (for steam and moisture to escape).
* Heat in oven at 180°F for two hours or until all ingredients are melted.
* Stir very well then pour into heat proof jars with mouths large enough for your hand to get in. Once cool, cover with lids and let set fully.
* Use as needed on dry or chapped skin (it doesn’t take much).

If commercial hand creams and balms are too harsh for your sensitive skin (due to perfumes, additives, etc.), a couple quick & easy home remedies you could try:

* Crisco Shortening (Plain) - Rub into hands just like a lotion. Strange, but true.
* Mineral Oil (Baby Oil)
* Olive Oil - Rub into hands
* Vaseline - Coat hands then cover in cotton gloves (at bedtime)

Beauty Defined...

2007-12-30T14:56:00.000-08:00

With a multitude range of beauty products in market today, consumers are often seen cashing in on them for enhancing their skin and look beautiful. But can beauty be achieved only through them?

We receive loads of books about longevity with preposterous titles like Stop Aging, Start Living, The New Anti-Aging Revolution: Stopping the Clock and The Science of Staying Young.

These books contain some practical advice. But at this stage of medical knowledge among most people, one has about as much chance of thwarting time as he or she does in personally preventing an ice storm, so that the New Year resolution can start right now by forgoing such books.

There is no way around the fact that every body skin included ages biologically over time, a process over which humans have forever grieved. It is the blight man was born for, the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins wrote in 1880, anticipating the Botox era. Still, many skin experts recommend practical steps to maintain skin as it ages and to mitigate external factors like sun exposure and chronic stress that could accelerate changes.

These eight skin-care resolutions for 2008 are simple and inexpensive. Research in medical journals supports some of them. Others are based on the experience of skin doctors.

Discard old, used beauty products:

Because people may transfer bacteria from their fingers to pots of face cream, possibly leading to the growth of micro-organisms, some dermatologists recommend discarding products one year after opening them. Because micro-organisms may also grow in mascara tubes, creating the risk of eye infection, experts recommend replacing mascara three months after opening it. In United States, beauty products manufacturers are not obliged to print the expiry date. But European regulations require products whose minimum durability is less than 30 months to display an icon a graphic of a jar with an open lid indicating a products shelf life after it has been opened.

Stop smoking:

What’s good for your lungs may also may have positive effects on your skin. Some dermatologists, for example, said that the nonsmokers among their patients generally had younger-looking skin than smokers, whose skin appeared to have aged prematurely. And sometimes smokers have sallower skin.

But the research into such observations is conflicting. One study published in England, based on interviews and physical examinations of elderly patients, suggested that smoking a pack a day over decades was associated with skin changes like wrinkles that added the equivalent of almost a decade of chronological aging to the face. But another study in Finland, in which researchers performed biopsies on the arm skin of volunteers, found no difference in skin elasticity between smokers and nonsmokers.

Several other studies have linked smoking to an increased risk of skin cancer. But doctors said it is not clear whether smoking per se may increase the risk of skin cancer or whether smokers tend to sunbathe more than nonsmokers.

Unhand those pimples!

For those who can’t help squeezing their pimples, think again. People think they are squeezing something bad out, but they could actually be pushing bacteria deeper into their skin, creating an infection, said Dr Bradford R Katchen, a dermatologist in Manhattan. Subsequent inflammation could cause pigmentary changes, or worse. It could scar your face, Dr Katchen said.

More sleep, less stress:

Psychological stress may impair the skins barrier function, which keeps bacteria out and water in.

Studies have shown that the skin of people under chronic stress caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients or medical students during exam time will heal more slowly, said Dr Ladan Mostaghimi, an assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.

Wear sunscreen:

Clinical studies show that using sunscreen regularly can impede the development of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Less conclusive evidence suggests that sunscreen might also hamper basal cell carcinoma and melanoma, deadliest form of skin cancer. But dermatologists encourage patients to make sunscreen a habit for another purpose: vanity. Sunscreen use may inhibit sun-induced changes to skin’s texture.

If you look at your derrihre when you come out of the shower, its obvious that the texture is smoother and the coloration is more uniform than your face, which gets regular sun exposure, Dr Katchen said.

Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or Mexoryl SX, ingredients that work against both the suns longerand shorter-length rays.

Simplify your beauty:

Some dermatologists advise their patients to restrict skin-care regimens to no more than three or four products daily.

Dr Katchen’s prescription: a mild cleanser; a sunscreen or moisturizer containing sunscreen; a product that contains antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, pomegranate, soy and green tea; and an anti-wrinkle product containing ingredients like retinoids, a form of Vitamin A, or protein fragments called peptides.

Wash your face:

Washing off minute dirt particles, along with makeup, every evening gives the skin a rest from exposure to possible irritants.

As a general hygiene principle, it’s good to wash your face at night, Dr Sundaram said. But if you apply a greasy night cream after that, it is just going to clog your pores.

Rethink products that cost more than $30:

Consumers do not have a proven, objective method by which to determine whether more-expensive beauty products work better or whether they simply look fancier and emit more exotic perfume than less-expensive items containing similar ingredients.

Your chances of achieving good skin are not directly proportional to the amount of money you spend, Dr Sundaram said. All too often, what you are paying for is the packaging, the advertising and the celebrity endorsements.

For all the doctors’ advice and the follow-up, 2008 may be declared Year of the Drugstore.

Source:Timesofindia

Tricks To Slim Down...

2007-12-29T14:54:00.000-08:00

Check out these great tips and tricks to help you lose weight, without trying too hard!

Breakfast:

Eat a heavy breakfast. Needless to say, heavy does not include fried foods. Stick to corn flakes, brown toast, eggs and the like, and you will not feel so hungry at lunchtime. The best and healthiest way to go is to breakfast like a King, lunch like a Queen and dine like a pauper. If you're still confused, we'll translate for you: breakfast should be the heaviest meal of the day. Lunch should be lighter than breakfast, and dinner should be the lightest meal of the day.

Dinner:

Try sticking to tasty soups, mixed (baked or boiled) vegetables with mayonnaise, and garlic bread, at night. Not only will you lose weight, but you will also give your much-abused digestive system, a much-needed break.

Green Tea:

Did you know that green tea helps you lose weight? (Not if you add two spoons of sugar with every cup, though!) Opt for green tea without sugar or milk, but with a dash of lime, and try and drink at least 3 cups a day. In addition to helping you burn calories, green tea is known for its anti-oxidant properties, and thus has great health benefits as well.

Spices:

Be generous with sprinklings of spices like garlic, Tabasco sauce and green peppers. They actually increase your body's calorie burning activity by 25%. Could there be an easier way to lose weight?

Yes! Surprise, surprise !

Sleep:

Get enough sleep. If you feel your body has a slow metabolism, getting sufficient sleep is a great way to boost it. This does not mean that you sleep for forty days and forty nights at a stretch and expect to wake up skinny as a bamboo stick! Sorry, but you're just not that lucky. However, if your body is not getting sufficient sleep, it slows down your metabolism. Try and catch eight to nine hours of sleep every night; you will end up burning more calories than you did with just six or seven hours of sleep.

Lights:

Did you know that dark rooms tend to make you feel low, and also cause you to overeat? And if you are one of those people who tend to eat more when they are unhappy, it's time to lighten up! Brighten your room, liven up the atmosphere - don't live in dingy surroundings. Add some cheer to your home! Bin those 60-watt bulbs and place 100-watt bulbs in your room.

Incentives:

Need some cutting edge incentive? If you have fat upper arms, get a tattoo high up on your arm. You can then work towards losing weight on your arms to show it off. If you want to lose weight on your belly, pierce your belly button or get a tattoo on your waist, just above where you wear your trousers. You will be aching to flaunt it!

Clothes:

Choose your clothes carefully:

* If you have large hips, wear shoulder pads so your hips look like they are in proportion to your body. Make sure the shoulder pads are not too big, nor are they too prominent. One should not be able to make out that you are wearing them.

* Don't wear clinging stuff in the hopes that it will make you look thin. Stay away from lycra.

* Don't wear clothes that are too loose.

* Steer clear from pleats.

* Wear one colour from top to toe to give an illusion of slimness.

* Wear fabrics like chiffon, that skim the body and show your curves, yet hide your fat.

Tips To Keep Hands Soft & Beautiful...

2007-12-28T14:53:00.000-08:00

Hands very often are treated roughly. People treat them badly while washing clothes, dishes, scrubbing floors and working in the garden. Hands are so beautiful and important but one probably feels no need of taking care of them. One must take proper care of the hands.

Hands are the most precious gift given to the human beings from God. Like one takes care of other parts of body, hands too need proper care and protections. Hands are the most noticeable part of the body. One must give proper attention to them as one gives to the face.

By following some easy tips, one can maintain the natural beauty of the hands. The hands will definitely thank one for taking good care of them. Hands ask for a little care in turn of infinite jobs that they perform for us.

There are some useful tips that one can follow to keep the hands safe, soft and healthy:

* Always wear rubber gloves while working with harsh chemicals soaps and detergents. It is also necessary to wear rubber gloves while gardening or spading snow. Gloves protect hands from harsh chemicals and prevent them from loosing natural softness.

* Prefer washing the hands with mild soaps or hand wash. After washing, pat dry the hands and apply a nice moisturizer to them. One should use a moisturizer that contains lactic acid’s urea, which is an essential hand care chemical that helps in binding water efficiently to the skin.

* For soft and beautiful hands, apply Vaseline or any other good moisturizer before going to bed. One will find hands amazingly soft by the morning.

* Exfoliate the hands at least once a week with a nice face exfoliater. One can also use weekly the night face cream on the hands before going to bed. One should use proper hand care lotion to prevent the hands from harmful sunlight and dry weather.

Vitamin C May Slow Skin Wrinkles...

2007-12-26T14:52:00.000-08:00

Researchers now report that people who eat plenty of vitamin C-rich foods have fewer wrinkles than people whose diets contained little of the vitamin.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means that it can combat the effects of free radicals in your body and on your skin. Free radicals are the unstable molecules in the environment that can cause aging of the skin. So, when vitamin C is properly delivered into skin cells, there is a good chance to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture.

However, eating a bag of oranges every week is not going to bring about the desired results for your skin. In order to see the benefits of vitamin C on the outside of your body, you will need to find a way to combine a healthy diet that is rich in vitamin C with skin care products that contain this important nutrient. Scientists have now discovered how to use a variety of vitamin C derivatives in skin care products that will bring about the same benefits as natural vitamin C with less of the ingredient required for results.

Apart from intake of vitamin c there are also other ways to protect skin from damage and keep it glowing. Free radicals which damage the skin are accumulated due to excessive sun exposure, cigarette smoke and environmental pollutants. Hence, skin has to be protected against these. Have plenty of water, when people are dehydrated wrinkles are much more noticeable. Use sunscreen and a good night moisturizer.

Mud Bath To Treat Skin Poblems...

2007-12-25T14:51:00.000-08:00

Naturopathy

Since ancient period sand has been very effective in naturopathy, in removing the illness. It removes the inner obstacle of body & activates the blood.

MUD THERAPY:

Mud therapy opens the pores of skin & increases the blood circulation, till the upper layer of skin. It cures the inner obstacle & pain of body. It removes the toxic materials of body. In naturopathy illness like indigestion, skin disease, pain in knees, eye problem, head pain, chronic pain & metabolic disorder is removed through sand. In natural therapy treatment is done by applying:-

* Stripe of mud on eyes.
* Stripe of mud on stomach.
* Stripe of mud on the spine bone.

HERBAL MUD BATH:

* 2-3 foot pit is dogged near river or lake, & black oily sand is taken out. It is crushed & filtered. Than it is dried in sunlight. Before using it, soak it for 12 hours in water.

TO PREPARE THE HERBAL MUD:

* Black sand, yellow ochre powder, orange shell powder, white sand powder, rose leaves powder & turmeric is mixed.

* Pour the herbal mud in clean container, mix cold water in it. Make a paste by shaking it with wooden spoon in such a manner so that it can be easily applied on the whole body.

* After soaking it in water for 12 hours, apply it on the whole body & sit in sun for 15- 60 minutes, according to the need.

* When the paste is dried, remove it with cold water by massaging. This way mud massage will also be done.

Home Remedies For Skin Problems...

2007-12-23T14:50:00.000-08:00

FACE - Skin Problems

Contrary to popular belief, acne is not a skin problem that only adolescents and teenagers face. In fact, many adults have it as well. However old or young, a commonality between the two lies in finding the ultimate solution to solving this painful condition. Here are some economical home remedies for clear and glowing skin.

Garlic has well known antibiotic properties making it an excellent treatment for pimples and acne. Peel and mash eight cloves of fresh garlic and apply to face avoiding the area around the eyes. Leave on for about 15 minutes and wash off with a warm cloth.

Dilute some lemon juice with water and dab on pimples to kill germs, cool inflammation and improve blood circulation.

To loosen and cleanse blackheads, make a paste of oatmeal, honey and an egg white. Apply to the skin, massage for 10 minutes then rinse with lukewarm water.

A mask of grated apple mixed with a little honey is an excellent remedy for pimples. Most facial masks can be applied to the skin for 15-20 minutes then washed off with warm water, followed by a cold rinse.

Build Your Personality...

2007-12-20T14:47:00.000-08:00

Tips for growing your relationship

SELF SACRIFICE:

It is not feasible to get your way all the time and expect to have a good relationship. You have to give in occasionally. Another thing to remember is avoid keeping score as some couples do.

COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY:

Yes you sacrifice but it still bothers you that the other person doesn't reciprocate. You do not say anything but all the while resentment is quietly building. If you are upset then do not let it fester. Tell your partner why as soon as possible.
What's more, be ready to listen and try to understand their point of view.

THE SPACE:

Sharing intimacy and affection on a regular basis is healthy for any relationship but so is giving the other person room. Being in close proximity to your partner for an inordinate amount of time can feel downright claustrophobic.

Dry Mouth Causes Bad Breath

2007-12-14T14:46:00.000-08:00

Dry Mouth Causes

It's a simple fact that having a dry mouth causes bad breath. It is probably not immediately obvious to many of us

why this should be so, but the explanation makes sense when you think about it. Our mouths are being constantly bathed by saliva. It keeps the tissues moist and contains antibodies and enzymes that help fight off infection. It plays a key role in controlling the population of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in our mouths.

There are billions of bacteria living in our mouths - and before you rush for the antiseptic mouthwash, you should know that they are meant to be there. In most cases, they do no harm at all and even assist in breaking down food particles and preventing infection. Having a dry mouth causes some bacteria to do better, and others to do poorly. To make matters worse, among the causes of dry mouth are things that actually provide nutrients for an undesirable group of bacteria - the ones that cause bad breath.

What are the causes of dry mouth? Well, first, there are things that decrease saliva flow. Sleep is one. Advancing age is another. Many drugs cause a decrease in saliva production as a side effect, as do alcohol and coffee, and of course, some medical conditions are dry mouth causes. When there is less saliva in the mouth, the environment at the back of the tongue where odor-producing bacteria live becomes more anaerobic, that is, there is less oxygen there, which favors the proliferation of these undesirable bacteria.

Other causes of dry mouth include exposure to air with a natural drying effect. Breathing through the mouth is the main factor here. It happens when we sleep and is worse if we snore. It happens when there is nasal congestion or inflammation of the sinuses, and some people just habitually breath through the mouth. Unfortunately, nasal congestion and sinus drainage, besides being dry mouth causes, contribute to bad breath by delivering nutrients to the back of the tongue in the form of nutrient rich drainage down the back of the throat.

Clearly, there are some causes of dry mouth that can be avoided. Coffee, alcohol, and some drugs are optional. Snoring can sometimes be treated, and humidity can be added to the air in a bedroom with a humidistat or humidifier. Colds and sinus problems can often be treated if they don't clear up on their own. Other dry mouth causes, however are simply not going to go away, and for these, you'll need to tackle the resulting halitosis with a good commercial product that acts on the odor-producing bacteria causing the problem at the back of the mouth.

Asian Beauty Tips...

2007-12-12T14:45:00.000-08:00

The eyes are the most enchanting Asian feature and so special attention should be paid to them.

Remember this: black mascara and black liquid eyeliner are your best friends. If you have a fair amount of lid, then you may escape the use of eyeliners and mascara, but to enhance your almond shaped eyes, you can't do without these essential tools.

* Skin tone is a big factor when choosing hues for foundation, eye makeup and lipstick. Lighter shades will create a "washed out" look, while intense hues will add dramatic effect and bring to life the eyes and cheekbones.

* Use foundation and powder with a yellow undertone. Although many Asian women believe they need to wear pink makeup shades to counteract their natural skin tones, this creates a very unnatural, outdated look. Using yellow-based products do not make Asian women look more yellow, but rather they produce a natural, flawless look that is modern and beautiful.

Eyeshadow: The most important factor in deciding what colour and how to apply eye shadow is to take into consideration the amount of fold you have above the eye lid. If you possess a fair amount of fold, then you can boldly apply dramatic colors such as black, deep purple, deep turquoise (really stunning) and navy blue for night time wear and utilize the technique of multilayering colors. Colors that are especially flattering for daytime wear are bronze and light colours applied close to the lashes while more intense colors are blended on top.

Asian Hair: Most hair-color products on the North American market just don't work well on Asian hair, which is the thickest of all hair types. More often than not, any amount of lightening turns out brassy; even black comes out looking unnatural much of the time because it's a difficult color to match. Your best bet is to go to an experienced colorist. If you decide to try it at home, remember that thick hair tends to absorb dyes fairly quickly, and very dark hair is especially resistant to bleaching, so always do a strand test to get the timing right.

How To Get Fabulous Feet:

It's time to take off the sneakers and socks and slip your feet into a sexy pair of sandals. Here's how to make sure that your feet look terrific.

1. Soak your feet for about ten minutes.
2. Pat feet dry.
3. Clip toenails straight across. Or, if you would rather, use an emery board (but wait until toenails are completely dry).
4. Using pumice stone, remove any rough areas.
5. Massage cuticle area with a little oil or moisturizer.
6. Gently push back cuticles.
7. Apply foot lotion and massage into each foot.
8. Remove any excess lotion.
9. If you wish to apply polish follow the procedure below.
10. Put a small amount of polish on your brush; paint one stroke down the center of your nail. Your brush should hold just enough color to accomplish this. Stroke the sides of the nail and you are done.
11. Wait until polish is set (dry to the touch) and then apply the top coat. Don't skip this step as it not only adds life to your pedicure, it will protect your nails as well.
12. Sanitize all of your equipment with alcohol and when they are dry, store them away until the next manicure or pedicure.

Which soap is best?

All soap contain alkali which break up the horny top layer of skin, allowing water to penetrate more (as well as to escape). Although normal skin renews this horny layer, repeated use of soap may weaken the repair process. This can cause extreme scaling and dryness known as chapping.
Perfume added to soap makes it much more appealing to use, but has no other virtue.... So then?

The safest soap to use is the simplest kind which has no added disinfectant, and no purfume.
While on the subject, remember that detergents, which are synthetic chemical compounds, will remove grease from the skin more effectively than soap. But their actions are too harsh for regular use and they easily cause chapping.

Glow Like A Rose:

For a rosy face...

These are homemade treatments that will put a rosy glow on your face :

1. Boil fresh rose petals and use this rose water instead of plain water for your skin treatments.
2. Prepare a rose facemask by grinding a handful of petals into a paste. Apply on clean skin and leave the application on for 15 to 25 minutes. Then wash with plain water (no soap). Your complexion will be smooth and glowing.

Oily Skin Controlling Cream...

2007-12-12T14:42:00.000-08:00

To extensively remove oily skin that may cause pimples.

YOU WILL NEED:

* Oatmeal
* Egg white

PRODUCER:

Mix the egg white with oatmeal enough to create a creamy paste. Mix thoroughly and apply to face and neck liberally. Leave the mixture for 20 minutes and wash with clean water. Do this as often as needed.

Treatment For Your Feet...

2007-12-11T14:41:00.000-08:00

TOP 5 TIPS FOR FEET

* If you haven’t treated your feet for a while, just this once go to a chiropodist and get your feet spoilt for a session. And it has to be a chiropodist - a pedicurist will pretty things up, but they won’t do the mega-makeover your forgotten feet probably need right now.

* Once your feet have been treated by the chiropodist, don’t wait for them to revert to their previous state before you deal with them again. You feet will now be at their best, so work on maintaining that perfection.

* Before every bath or shower, spend two or three minutes whisking over your feet with a foot file or pumice to remove dead skin. In a pedicure you do this after you’ve soaked, but day to day it’s better done before your bath as water hydrates the dry skin and you won’t always see which areas need to be tackled.

* Give yourself a major pedicure once a month to keep nails under control.

* Treat any unusual problems quickly. While you may not like to think about it feet do get some nasties on them - and pretty quickly too. So if you get corns, verrucas or fungal infections, sort them out as soon as you notice them. That way they’ll go more quickly and nothing evil (like lost toenails) will occur.

TREATMENT FOR YOUR FEET:

Treat your feet with this homemade foot bath, which will soothe aching limbs and speed up circulation:

* Boiling Water
* Green Tea (loose or bags)
* Peppermint Oil

Fill a bowl full of boiling water. Add five green tea bags - or two scoops of flaked green tea - and three drops of peppermint oil. Wait five minutes and check the water has cooled enough to put your feet in (if it hasn’t, add some cool water). Soak your feet for five minutes. Get out, pat them dry and apply foot cream or body lotion.

Tips To Make Your Hair Shiny...

2007-12-11T14:40:00.000-08:00

Your hair is an important part of your appearance. If your hair does not look good, your entire appearance can be ruined. All of us would like to have beautiful, silky, shiny hair. But like a number of other beauty secrets many of us do not know how to make our hair shiny. Different hair textures need different ingredients to make it shiny. Healthy, shiny hair enhances the beauty of a person.

Fine Hair: for fine hair look for a shampoo with wheat proteins and polymers. These ingredients coat the hair shaft making it look thicker. Use spray volumizers. These are light enough and will deposit a light mist of shine in the form of droplets without wilting your hair.

Normal Hair: for normal hair use a shampoo that has silk amino acids, this softens and repairs hair structure. Lecithin restores hair texture. To add shine you can use gels and creams. First apply the product on your palm, rub your hands together and pat gently on to your hair.

Thick and Coarse Hair: Use pomades they will not only make your hair shiny but will moisturize your hair as well.

TIPS FOR SHINY HAIR:

* Use heat-activated shampoo

* Deep condition at least weekly

* Don’t use a lot of styling products as they can dull the hair by coating it.

* Use Strawberry hair mask: mash eight strawberries with one-tablespoon mayonnaise. Massage this into washed but damp hair. Cover it with a shower cap and then a warm towel. Wash out with a shampoo and then condition. This mask will give your hair a rich gloss.

* Increase the shine in your hair by giving your hair a cool blast of air to seal the cuticle after it is completely dry. If the cuticles are ragged then your hair will not shine.

* For blonde hair use a few tablespoons of lemon juice to your rinse water. This will make your hair shiny.

* For brown and red hair add a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to your rinse water.

* For shiny hair you can also mix one teaspoon of honey into 4 cups of warm water. After shampooing, pour the mixture through your hair, but do not rinse. Dry as normal.

Tips To Have a Baby Soft Skin...

2007-12-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

Don't you hate having dry, ashy, or rough skin? By taking on a few simple habits, you can be well on your way to having baby-smooth skin.

STEPS:

1. Cleanse your skin once a day with soap, water, and a soft sponge.

2. The MOST important step- Ex-fo-li-ate! Exfoliate once a week or once a fortnight if you have sensitive skin. It will remove dead skin cells, dirt and oil and will leave your skin baby soft!

3. Pat dry with a towel. Don't rub or scrub - this damages your skin and also creates wrinkles later on in life.

4. Apply lotion or cream before you leave the steam-filled bathroom. This is the best time to moisturize your skin because your pores are still open and your skin is still moist.

5. Wear sunblock if you're going to step outside of your house. One of the reasons babies have such soft skin is that they haven't been exposed to the harmful effects of UV rays!

6. Moisturize especially dry or tough areas, especially the feet, elbows, knees, and hands, right before going to sleep.

7. Drink half your weight in ounces of water every day. For example, if you weigh 140 lbs., you should drink 70 ounces of water every day. This will keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

8. Take a daily multivitamin to help your skin fight off damage and wrinkles.

9. After your shower put baby oil on your skin. Another step that is important to getting baby soft skin!

10. If you take a bath put 5 capfuls of baby oil in the water

11. After bath or shower dry skin and put on lotion

12. Put on powder after bath or shower

TIPS:

* Gentle, unscented soaps are best for your skin.

* Remember that your skin is your body's largest and most vulnerable organ. Take good care of it!

* In step 4 one can use baby oil, preferably with aloe vera and vitamin E, instead of lotion. Make sure there is some water left on the skin after patting dry, simply to avoid excessive oiliness.

* Add a handful of sugar to your favorite lotion and mix. Rub it into your dry skin and then towel it off.

Trendy Gym Clothing For Men...

2007-12-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

With health, nutrition & stress relief taking centre stage in our ever more frenzied lives, gym, health club & fitness are more than buzz words today. Getting with a fitness regime is today seen as less a fad and more a necessity of life.

DRESSING FOR EXERCISE:

Before starting a fitness routine, you need to determine what kind of clothing and shoes you will need. Here are some tips for dressing for comfort when you work out.

SHOES:

These days, it seems like they make a shoe for almost every activity. It’s important to wear the right shoes depending on your activity of choice. For example, for running, you might want a lightweight shoe; for kick boxing, ankle-high sneakers will help protect your ankles. But the most important thing is to choose shoes that fit well and are comfortable. Make sure you have
enough room for toes with socks. Choose shoes that give your foot enough support, especially the arch.

Choose between regular lace up shoes or contemporary slip on type. If lace ups are your style of choice, then be careful to keep them properly tied while using gym equipment. If you don't, you risk injury.

You don't need to spend a fortune to get a sturdy pair of athletic shoes. Factory outlets are increasingly the best place to get branded shoes, at earthly prices. Do check the shoes carefully before purchasing though, as there maybe minor visible defects.

CLOTHING:

What you wear will depend on what your activity is, whether it's indoor or outdoor, and what the weather is like. When exercising you should make sure you don't get overheated, or too cold.
When exercising outdoors in chilly weather or indoors in air conditioned environs, make sure you wear enough layers. You can shed them if you feel too hot. Several light layers often work better than one heavy layer.

• The layer closest to your skin should absorb moisture & take it away from your skin. This could be a muscle vest or t-shirt.

• Another layer should provide warmth (if needed) and support to keep you comfortable as you move, such as a zip front jacket/ hoodie.

* Most importantly make sure your exercise clothes are comfortable. Loose-fitting track pants, cargos or shorts, paired with a comfortable t-shirt or sweatshirt are best. These work for most activities like weight training, hiking and kick boxing.

* Your clothes should allow you plenty of room for moving and stretching. Avoid pieces that have unnecessary cords, tight elastication and fastenings, especially around the neck, wrists and ankles. These could restrict your breathing, movement and circulation or get caught in equipment and cause injury.

* Fabrics like cotton that breathe (allow air to circulate) are best, so that your clothing doesn't stick to you too much when you sweat. It’s best to take into account a ‘support’ for high intensity cardio activities like running, kick boxing, aerobics and cycling.

Remember, you don't need to dress to impress just to be at ease and active!

Sole Searching !!!

2007-12-01T14:37:00.000-08:00

Footwear is becoming the cynosure of all eyes. Shoe fetish or not, it’s nice to avoid footwear faux pas

THAT’S THE verdict: Flats are the new footwear imperative. They’ve been around for a while – the ballerinas, the gladiators and wafer-thin thongs. But this is when the craze for flats reaches grandiose proportions. It’s time to sit up and take stock of your shoe closet.

Sure, on the ramp, designer ensembles look uber glamourous when waif-like models are propped up on four-inch stilletoes or hefty-sole platforms. But as you saunter through the mall on a Saturday afternoon or even as you sip coffee, sitting crosslegged in front of your date— flats lend a free-spirited, vivacious vibe to your persona. Besides, anyone who plans to wear this season’s thigh-skimming baby doll dresses, micro minis, tents and leggings, should take the lead.
The new silhouette is youthful and flirty. And flats, with their effortlessly earthy look, can do
wonders for it.

Many of you might have gone “Pas moi!” seeing a pair of flats. Like the perpetually high-heeled goddess, Malaika Arora-Khan admits, “I have to be really unwell to wear flats. I love my heels. So for me, they’re never out.” But fashion pundits recommend the low road every once in a while. Think of Twiggy who looked fresh and gamine in her minis and flats way back in the 1960s.

PROP ME UP:

It starts with basic physiology. Shoes really determine the way we walk and carry ourselves. Any woman would agree that her shoes dictate her comfort level at any given time of the day. “Those accustomed to heels are used to arching their lower back out and being pitched forward. This instantly sexualises a woman’s silhouette and hence her mindset,” says stylist, Pria Agni. Agreed, the hopelessly heel-addicted might feel rather inelegant without that extra prop. Supermodel Jesse Randhawa points out that while she does walk the ramp in some dangerously high heels, she personally likes flat footwear, “I prefer staying closer to the ground and kick some ass when the need be,” she adds cheekily.

HOW TO WEAR FLATS:

Flats needn’t spell out virginal princess all the time. “A jewelled flat with a revealing cut can be fabulously sexy,” says model and actress Munmun Datta. Embellished flats seem to be the way to go. Pria recommends tie-ups or flats in candy colours and innovative materials like chiffon and straw to add the required style quotient. “Mary Janes, a retro style in an open toed option is very hip too,” she adds.

Sujata Assomull, Director Communications, Murjani Group who is bringing the very swank Jimmy Choo to the country, says, “We’re going towards the shift dresses of the 60s and flats look great with skinny jeans as well. They’ve transcended their role from practical musthaves to ultimate fashion accessories.” Touché to that. If Jimmy Choo says so, who’re we to disagree? Also featured in their upcoming Fall-Winter collection are gold and anthracite strappy nappa sandals with long ties that wind around the ankle.

PAIN AND GAIN:

While stilettos have acquired a bad name for the evil things they do to our feet and backs, Dr. Gaurang Desai explains that wearing wafer-thin flats for long periods can be equally harmful. “They have zero shock absorption and no arch support. Heels aren’t the greatest but flats are no better. Ensure that your soles have some sort of padding if you’re going to be wearing them for long hours,” he says. The perpetually high-heeled end up getting their Achilles tendon permanently shortened and calf muscles tightened. Desai mentions a painful condition called ‘Plantar Fasciitis’ which results from an inflamed fascia— the fibrous band of tissue connecting your heel bone to the base of your toes.

To counter other such unmentionables, shoe divas recommend alternating between flats and heels. It appears that there is no ideal heel height. Flats are ultra hip but we need some heeled comfort once in a while. Get swinging! Alternation is the way to go.

BEST FOOT FORWARD:

* Slip-ons or thongs in leather or jute: for a casual afternoon in lounge pants or even teamed with a summer dress.

* Roman sandals in basic leather: you could tie these up to your ankles or mid-calf to go with that shift dress.

* Flat pumps or ones with slight heels: the all purpose shoe.

* Close-toed basic heels in black: for the quintessential formal look.

* Flat boots or flat slouch boots in suede: for when the fashionista strikes.

* Embroidered jootis: to lend an ethnic aura to your Indian wear of fusion ensembles.

Skin Care Tips For Men To Look Young & Feel Young...

2007-11-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

Skin care tips for men

The new-age mantra is to look young and beautiful always, have a good physique and glowing skin. Anti-ageing creams, cosmetic surgery and television makeovers are ruling the psyche of every man, woman and child today. People are willing to spend huge amounts of money on beauty products and procedures to look and feel younger. The fashion conscious male of the 21dst century too is going to great lengths to feel younger and stay younger.

But, if truth be told, you do not need to spend a fortune on your appearance to look good.

These simple and inexpensive ways will help you look young and feel young.

Keeping your skin looking healthy and young:

Dry skin look dull and makes you feel that too. Use a moisturizer on your face, hands and feet daily to prevent your skin from drying and cracking. A good eye cream will keep the dark circles and wrinkles around the eyes away giving you a fresh look. Always keep a special hand cream at the sink and desk and use periodically, to prevent chaffing and drying especially in cold conditions.

Whitening agent for your teeth:

You can use tooth whiteners to give your teeth a pearly look or ask your dentist to recommend some professional grade options. A whiter and brilliant smile goes a long way in adding allure to your countenance.

Protect yourself from excessive and harmful rays of the sun:

The sun’s rays though in small doses is good, excessive amount of sun can damage your skin and can even lead to skin cancer Always protect yourself with a good sunscreen. It will give your skin glowing and make you look younger

Hair problems:

Ensure that you keep your eyebrows neatly trimmed. Beards and goatees may add to your charm but a clean shaven look makes you look better and younger. Many men have hair sprouting from their ears and noses. Keep these under check through careful trimming. You can pick up an ear and nose hair trimmer at your local drug store. They are simple and easy to use.

The importance of color:

Always wear colors that complement your skin and eyes and those that suit your image.

Managing dark circles under your eyes:

A good night’s sleep and eating healthy will help rid you off your dark circles. For hereditary or chronic problems of dark circles use products such as Hylexin by Bremmen Research Labs. Under-eye concealers can do the trick during emergencies.

Eye-care:

Substituting contact lenses, soft, hard or even colored will help you to look attractive, handsome and younger.

Exercising to maintain a good physique:

Try to incorporate some form of exercise in your daily routine, whether it is jogging in the park, running on the treadmill or simply a brisk walk around the neighborhood. Exercise helps you maintain good posture, boosts energy levels, alleviates stress and increases blood flow to keep you looking fit, healthy and young Looking skin.

Causes & Remedies For Dark Skin...

2007-11-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

Though a lot of people have naturally dark skin, darkening of skin could also be due to hyper pigmentation and various other reasons. A dark colored skin has more of skin pigment Melanin, as compared to a fair skin. Unfortunately, increased quantity of melanin can cause the skin to look blemished and patchy.

Causes for Dark Skin:

The causes for a dark skin or complexion could be many. Some of the most common ones are

* Heredity - People who have a dark skin often have children who are dark-skinned too. The genes seem to pass on from generation to generation.
* Hyper Pigmentation - In this condition the skin produces too much of the pigment melanin, causing the skin to become darker than usual.
* Skin Disorders - Conditions such as Lichen Simplex Chronicus is a skin disorder that causes severe itching that leaves the skin thick, dark and patchy.
* Sun Rays - Over exposure to sun causes the skin to tan. This is a natural mechanism, wherein to protect itself from the harmful UV rays of the sun, the skin produces more of the pigment melanin which shields the penetration of UV rays into the skin.

Remedies for Dark Skin:

Here are some simple home remedies that you can do to lighten the skin tone and get a lighter complexion. However, they must be done regularly and best results are obtained if they are inculcated as a part of daily routine.

* Mix 1 table spoon of milk powder, 1 table spoon of honey, 1 table spoon of lemon juice, and ½ table spoon of almond oil. Apply on face and wash off after 10-15 minutes. This pack helps bring shine to the skin and also removes tan.

* Mix oatmeal with curd and tomato juice and apply on the face. Keep it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water. It helps remove the tan and lightens the skin.

* Place sliced raw potato on the face. It helps reduce blemishes and other marks.

* Applying turmeric powder along with lime juice removes the tan. Lime juice is natural bleach.

* Dried orange peels mixed with curd also help reduce blemishes and scars. Wash off this mixture with cold water after 15 minutes.

* Soak 4 almonds overnight. Grind into a fine paste using milk. Apply on face and neck and leave it overnight. Wash with cold water in the morning. Do this daily for 15 days, followed by twice a week.

* A table spoon of gram flour mixed with 2 table spoon of raw milk and 2-3 drops of lime juice works well for lightening dark skin. Apply this mixture and leave it for 15 minutes before washing off. Repeat for 4 weeks and follow up with once a week.

* Apply a paste of fresh ground mint leaves and leave it for about 20 minutes. Wash with cold water, continue for 15 days.

* Apply a mixture of grated tomato with 2-3 drops of lime juice on the face. Leave it for 20 minutes before washing off. Do this twice a day for 15-20 days for best results.

Diet for Dark Skin:

Although there are no particular foods that will lighten your skin instantly, a balanced diet definitely helps by giving your skin a healthy glow. Drinking an optimum amount of water hydrates your skin and keeps it blemish free. Some recommendations regarding diet are as follows

1. Avoid excessive consumption of heavy and oily foods.
2. Incorporate whole cereals, pulses, fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.
3. Drink at least 4-5 liters of water every day. Water washes out the toxins from the body.

Types Of Womens Perfume...

2007-11-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

The common person often does not understand and know about the types of womens perfume that are available providing different fragrances for different body chemistry. By understanding and knowing about the different types of womens perfume a person can buy and wear scents that are suited to them and will produces the positive benefits of perfume. There are some simple basic bits of knowledge that will prove useful for the perfume buyer and wearer.

Types Of Womens Perfume Groups:

The basic breakdown of womens perfumes is in the type of scent that is the basic ingredient. There are different smells that a perfume is created from and that will be an asset or detriment to the wearer. Perfumes can be defined as floral, oriental, woody, fresh, and fougere. These labels of perfume types are determined by the type of scent that they create and the ingredients they are created from. A basic floral will be the scent of a flower, a fresh scent will be a citrus or natural smell and a woody will be created by using the barks and oils of different woods. By understanding these simple breakdowns in the fragrances a person can choose the type of women's perfume they want and that will blend with their body type to create a tantalizing aroma.

Types Of Womens Perfume Strengths:

The most basic type of womens perfume strength is a true perfume. A person who wears true perfume will have an expensive small bottle of the strongest concentration of the scent. Perfume is concentration of aromatic oils that will be at least twenty percent. By using the true perfume a person will have the full essence of the fragrance offering an unmistakable aroma.

For the average person on the average day a less expensive, lower concentration of a perfume will be completely appropriate. The eau de perfume, eau de toilette, and eau de cologne will all be reduced concentrations in order of listing. These concentrations can be bought in larger quantities for less money making them affordable types of womens perfume strengths.

Learning Types Of Womens Perfume:

For the person who wants to learn more about perfume taking the time to study these various groups and strengths will be very useful. By looking at the more popular brand names and perfume and defining the group of scents they fall into a person can quickly determine what the fragrance will be like. Some scents are obvious as to their group. For example, Lily of the Valley is a floral. Other classic scents are well known in the perfume industry but a newcomer will need to investigate their category.

Not In Vein !

2007-11-14T14:32:00.000-08:00

Varicose veins are enlarged veins, mainly in the feet and the legs. They are largely a cosmetic concern, but sometimes can cause pain and discomfort, which can lead to complications. Women are more likely to suffer from it specially during pregnancy and menopause. Aging reduces the tone in the veins and also causes wear and tear of the valves. Sedentary lifestyle and standing for long periods are other reasons. Corrective surgery is available, but should be considered only if other treatments fail.

DIET:

* High protein diets are recommended.
* Proper nutritious diet should be taken during pregnancy.
* Avoid high calorie foods as obesity can lead to varicose veins.
* Watch your salt intake.

EXERCISE:

* Calf muscle exercises improve blood circulation in the legs.
* Proper antenatal and postnatal exercises reduce risk of varicose veins in pregnancy.
* Wearing elastocrepe stockings for 10-12 hours, and walking in it for an hour, help to support veins in the legs and improve blood flow.
* Yoga also helps.

LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS:

* Position of legs should be changed frequently.
* Avoid sitting cross legged.
* Avoid high heels. Wearing proper footwear is important.
* Watch your weight. I Use staircase instead of lift.
* Tilt your bed to raise its foot end.
* Stop smoking.

Source: Timesofindia

No Gain Without Pain !!!

2007-11-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

If pottering about the house is your idea of fitness, you have got it all wrong, says Norbert Rego

YOU walked to the railway station this morning, marched up the escalators, and when you get back home, you’ll walk your pet. Is this sufficient to remain fit? Sadly no, says research.

“Light exercises do not provide the required cardiovascular reserve. One has to indulge in a variety of fitness programmes — treadmill, swimming, light running and jogging. These exercises decrease fat, enhance and improve circulation, increase muscle mass, regulate body metabolism and keep a person fit, physically and psychologically, says Dr Sanjeev Jain, consultant, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai.

Keeping fit generally means having a good exercise tolerance so that one does not tire easily. The main systems in the human body involved in day-today functioning and directly affected by exercise are the cardiovascular system (heart for pumping blood) and pulmonary system (lungs for supplying adequate oxygen for energy). A healthy cardio-respiratory system leads to a well-functioning gastrointestinal system (stomach, bowels, etc), which is then able to absorb the required nutrients and supply the body with proper nourishment. This leads to a healthy mind and body.

“To improve efficiency of the cardio-respiratory system, one needs aerobic exercise, ie, a workout which increases exercise tolerance. However, to be effective, it should be done at a pace that will surprise the body and force it to keep up with the higher level of activity. It is ideal to push heart rate up to 80 per cent of the maximum advisable limit for your age and health, after seeking medical advice. This will increase the overall Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) , and make the body more efficient,” says Dr Kaushal Malhan, consultant, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai.

“To remain fit, one has to keep all the joints moving and keep muscles toned to support skeletal system. This improves posture, controls muscular and joint aches, improves skin circulation,” adds Dr Jain.

A research, published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, found that women who did more than eight hours a week of heavy housework were actually slightly more likely to be overweight than those who did none — and no amount of vacuuming, scrubbing and cleaning lowered resting heart rate, which is an indicator of enhanced aerobic fitness.

Since we all have different levels of fitness, it's impossible to prescribe any single activity or target heart rate as suitable for all. There is evidence that brisk walking protects women from diabetes and heart disease, but for most middle-aged men, walking simply isn't challenging enough. Men who want to reduce their risk of diabetes and heart disease should consider jogging, circuit training, running or competitive sports.

Source: Timesofindia

Body Speaks A Thousand Words - Body Language

2007-11-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

Your body speaks a thousand words. You can tell so much about a person by looking at them and by observing their movements. Does the person you are talking to, like you? Is he enjoying your company? Is she trying to wriggle her way out of the conversation? What kind of a person is your prospective employee, employer or partner? Here are a few dead giveaways that will give you insight into the personality of a person, and indicate what he or she is feeling during a conversation.

Slouching:

A person who stands erect gives the message that he is emotionally strong, knows what he wants and how to get there, and has confidence in his abilities. A person who slouches is essentially an introvert, (though he may have overcome his shyness with the passage of time) is self-conscious or is simply laid back.

Arms crossed:

Observe the way your companion is sitting. Are her arms crossed around her chest? This is a closed position, and it shows that she is not very comfortable with the direction the conversation is taking. She is possibly trying to protect herself emotionally, and is involuntarily shutting you out. If she is leaning back and sitting with her arms across her chest, she could be feeling defensive, and is possibly trying to draw away from you. She could also be disagreeing with what you are saying. This stance doesn't denote lack of interest it is a combative, defensive or self-conscious stance.

If you see a lady standing with her arms crossed, it shows that she is feeling uncomfortable, and that shed really rather be somewhere else. She is slightly nervous, and doesnt really know what to do with her hands, so she crosses them across her chest.

Leaning in:

If a person leans towards you while talking, it indicates interest, while if she leans away from you, it means that her attention is starting to waver. Change the subject, quick!

Touching:

If your companion gently taps you on your hand or on your shoulder when you are saying something, it indicates a definite interest in the conversation. It could also mean that the person is attracted to you, or is extremely comfortable in your company.

Feet:

If you are standing and conducting a conversation with someone, observe where his feet are pointing. Are they pointing towards you, or away from you? If they are pointing towards you, it is a good sign and it shows that he is interested in what you have to say. If they are pointing in another direction, it means that he is looking to walk away from you.

Eyes, eyes baby!

Is your companion making eye contact with you? If eye-contact is good, the person comes across as comfortable in the present situation, and interested in what the you are is saying. So if you want to pay attention to what a person is saying or convey interest in the conversation, make sure you look into your companions eyes. This doesn't mean that you stare non-stop; staring is a little rude, not to mention psychotic! But constantly looking around the room while taking indicates lack of interest. It could also indicate that you are a shy person, or that you are feeling self-conscious. So if the person you are speaking to is avoiding eye-contact, don't jump to conclusions that she is not interested in what you have to say. Shes probably just shy.

Direct eye contact is also good to use when being interviewed, as it shows confidence and conviction in what you are saying.

Liar, liar! Is the person you are speaking to, looking to his left or to his right? Studies suggest that if someone is fibbing, he will look slightly to the left while speaking to you, as he is using his creative brain, while if he is being honest, he will look to his right!

Adjusting clothes/hair:

If your companion sub-consciously adjusts her clothes, it indicates that she is interested, and not just in your conversation! If she pats her hair, it could also be a possible indicator of interest, but don't read too much into this. Women love their hair, and tend to enjoy playing with it, whether or not they are really interested in the person they are talking to. However, if men pass their hands through their hair, it's a dead giveaway that they want you to perceive them as attractive.

Remember, look for more than one sign before you jump to conclusions. If your companion crosses her hands, it may simply be because she is feeling cold, but if she crosses her hands, leans away from you and glances around the room instead of at you, she's definitely losing interest in the conversation. So use your judgement while observing body language.

Homemade Skin Cleanser

2007-11-07T14:29:00.000-08:00

Save face (and neck) with this soothing and moisturizing treatment.

Unless you spend the summer at the movies, your skin is bound to suffer. Sun, sweat, and wind can leave the skin on your face irritated, greasy, parched—in other words, a mess. To the rescue: this Yogurt-Honey Cleanser created by Linda Collins of Salon Blue in Carle Place, New York. "The lactic acid in yogurt softens and soothes the skin," Collins says, "while the honey cleanses and moisturizes it."

What you need :

1 cup plain yogurt
2 ½ tablespoons of unflavored honey
teaspoon lemon juice (for oily skin)
Cotton pads (optional)
Warm water

How to get started :

* In a bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey. (For oily skin, add teaspoon lemon juice to help absorb excess oil.) You might want to patch-test the mixture first, behind one ear. Wait one hour, watching for any irritation.

* With clean hands or cotton pads, apply the mask liberally to your freshly washed face and neck (even your décolletage), and leave on for 5 minutes.

* Rinse well with warm water, lightly pat dry, and follow with your favorite moisturizer. Repeat one or two times a week.

Look Good Instantly !

2007-11-06T14:28:00.000-08:00

It is the time of year when you gear up to look your best. You need to look naughty and natty, gorgeous and glamorous -- all at once! Feeling good has a direct bearing on looking good. Even if you are not regular with exercises and do not think much about your eating habits, here are some quick tips . The instant glow that fills your body and mind might be the best stimulus for the hectic partying season.

* Have gallons of water and herbal tea. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water that can include coconut water as well. A well-hydrated face and body always looks fresh. Here is an easy recipe of herbal tea that keeps your digestive system in check. It can be taken after your meals or just before you go to sleep. Pour a teaspoon of cardamom, one tablespoon of clove, one teaspoon of ground cinnamon, half a teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of black pepper into a teapot. Then pour three cups of boiling water into the mixture, and keep it for 10 minutes. Strain and serve. You may sweeten it with honey.

* Eat an apple and drink water or vice versa before attending a party. You will eat less if you are someone who likes to monitor calorie consumption.

* Eat a little dark chocolate if you are feeling low. It will pep you up in a trice. l People prone to acidity should be extra careful during festive time. A simple solution is to sip a glass of warm water, to which one or two cloves have been added.

* A good way to beat a sluggish digestive system is to put ajwain (carom seeds) in boiling water. Add rock salt or a pinch of common salt, strain it after 10 minutes or till the water becomes warm, drink straight.

* Another excellent potion that will take care of your digestive system as well as keep you warm this winter is the following: mix a teaspoon of cardamom, one tablespoon of clove, one teaspoon of ground cinnamon, half a teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of black pepper. Put the mixture into a teapot. Boil three cups of water and then pour it and keep it
for 10 minutes. Strain and serve. You may sweeten it with honey. Drink this after your meal.

* Tired eyes are the first signs of heavy-duty partying. Here's some quick-fix tips to bring alive the glint to the windows to your soul. Do it 5-6 times a day and don't forget to remove your contact lens while doing the following:
(1) Rub your palms together for about 25 seconds thrice, then place it over your eyes (shut)
(2) Splash your closed eyes with cold water.

* A breathing exercise that relaxes taut nerves. Shut your eyes. Take a deep breath. Slowly inhale. Take a pause. Then exhale equally slowly.

* Another technique guaranteed to make you rock at any party. Try it just before you set out for the night: Lie down. Feet slightly apart, palm facing upwards. Eyes shut. Follow your breath caressing every part of your body. Then shift your attention to the thoughts clouding your mind. Let it pass through your mind like a stream of consciousness. Gradually you will feel very relaxed. Do not sleep as this is conscious relaxation. Once you get up, you are fully charged.

* Take a walk or jog gently for about 20 minutes in the morning. See the energy and radiance that emanate from you.

* You have had a depressing day at work and have little time or inclination to feel upbeat about that party. Despair not. Just take a few drops of lavender essential oil, rub it in the centre of your palm, a little bit on the upper portion of your tummy and under your feet. Now lie down and relax. It will calm you. And you'll find yourself looking forward to the evening.

* For that instant glow, make a pack out of one papaya, quarter cup of yogurt and two tablespoons of honey. It'll take away your tan, dead cells and keep the skin silken soft.

* Put a little salt in yogurt and massage your face, body, neck, hands and feet. Leave it on for five minutes before taking a bath. It works like a skin polisher.

* To get rid of those puffy eyes, eye bags and dark circles, take a teaspoon of milk powder, a
dash of lemon and make it into a paste with tea-water. Apply an under eye gel. Then put on the paste. Leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with plain water.

* To impart that lustrous shine to your hair, take half a cup of grated coconut, half a cup of coconut milk, two teaspoons of honey and two drops of lavender essential oil. Mix them into a bowl, pour it onto your palms, apply on your damp hair and leave it on for 20 minutes. Shampoo your hair and use conditioner if required.

* Bath is always rejuvenating, but this pack peps up your soul as well. In one teaspoon of carrier oil (almond/sunflower) add 4-5 drops of ylang ylang/vanilla/rose (to relax) or grapefruit/lavender and rosemary (to invigorate), lemon, orange or neroli (to refresh). Put this mixture into your bath water and laze about in the luxury of soothing aromas.

* For soft and sparkling hand and feet, clean with soap and pumice stone. Take a teaspoon of honey, a teaspoon of sugar. Add a few drops of essential oils like sandal wood/jasmine/rose, any massage oil like almond/olive/sunflower, and massage.

* To get rid of hangover, take a teaspoon of almond oil and add two drops of rose essential oil to it. Then massage the mixture around your face, neck and a bit of your stomach. In no time, you will be up, about, and raring to go.

Source:timesofindia

Bollywood Actress Hansika Motwani Fitness Secret !

2007-11-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

“A diet is a selection of food that helps you loose weight”, says actress Hansika Motwani.

She may not be called as a new entrant in Bollywood as she has been into the industry since a long time as a child artist. Just like a fairy tale she grew up fast and suddenly appeared as a beautiful actress. Hansika talks about the secret of her fitness and her favourite food.

Hansika is not a foodie and may be that helps her to maintain herself. “I am not very foodie. I like home made Rajma Chawal . I don’t indulge in oily cheesy stuff”.

She begins her day with a healthy breakfast as she believes that it’s the first meal of the day and it should be healthy. She prefers skimmed milk and an apple in the morning. Hansika believes in diet and follows her Guru Mickey Mehta’s instructions properly.

From a child actress, Hansika was expected to gain a good amount of weight to match up his male co-star Himesh Reshammiya in her first film as an adult actress. But after her first movie Aap Ka Suroor , Hansika lost seven kilos. Talking about fitness she says, “I prefer both cardio and weight exercises. I exercise two hours everyday in my gym. I prefer protein milkshake after workout. I believe in yoga and meditation as well.”

Hansika is quite particular about her food. She feels that healthy food is an important part of a balanced diet. “I don’t starve myself. I take eight meals through out the day. My lunch comprises Roti, daal, dalia , salad and yoghurt. I prefer fruit juice rather than cold drinks. I avoid dinner or any kind of food late at night. Rather I prefer to have my dinner in the evening”, she concludes.

Homemade Rich Nail Cream For Strong & Healthy Nails

2007-10-31T14:23:00.000-07:00

You might be lucky enough to possess strong, healthy nails. But it is imperative that you keep them that way. While some women clean the utensils with their bare hands and try to remove the ingrained dirt sticking on to them by scratching with their nails, still others use their nails as screw drivers, brush, a tin opener or as a gardening shovel. Likewise, many do not think twice before immersing their fingers in harsh detergent solutions and other chemicals. All these activities can make the otherwise healthy nails to become brittle and lose their natural luster.

Remember these points:

* Nails should not be kept too long that there is a possibility of their breaking nor should they be cut too short so that they expose the nail bed.

* Always use a mild soap or a hand wash while cleaning your hands.

* Do not forget to wear gloves while attending to household chores like washing, cleaning or gardening.

* Avoid direct contact with harsh detergents and other soap solutions.

* Also do not immerse your hands in water for long periods of times. This weakens the nasoaking fingernailsils.
brushing fingernails

* To remove the dirt off the nails, put your hands in lukewarm water to which a drop of a mild shampoo is added. Remove them after 1-2 minutes and gently clean them with a soft brush or soft linen.

* To remove stains from your nails and fingers try some of the home remedies.

* For keeping the nails shining and strong, sometimes in your leisure time, massage the nails and the cuticles with olive oil, with slow and gentle strokes.

* Massaging nails with the diluted water of alum also keeps them shining.

* A gentle massage with mustard (sarson) oil also helps.

* You can also use this homemade rich nail cream.

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon avocado (butter fruit) pulp
1 teaspoon egg yolk
1 teaspoon honey
A pinch of salt

Method:

Blend all the ingredients to a smooth consistency. Apply a small quantity of the paste to each nail, massaging gently into cuticles and surrounding skin. Rinse off after half an hour. You may prepare this cream in a larger quantity by increasing the proportions of the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator, to be used within a month.beautiful fingers

For the oils and the creams to work on your nails and for better results you shouldn’t use your fingers or nails for at least half an hour. So the best time to massage nails is a few hours before retiring to bed. That way you won’t be using them for a long time.

Beauty With Honey

2007-10-28T14:22:00.000-07:00

Honey is amongst most important ingredient of home made beauty remedies. Honey is a sweet brownish or yellowish fluid extracted by bees from the nectar of various flowers. Honey has been used as key component of our food from the past few decades. It is also considered to be the most effective beauty aids. Natural honey is best for a healthy and glowing skin.

Honey is a mixture of sugar, wax and traces of minerals. It is suitable for sensitive skin types because of its anti-irritating characteristics also it is very popular as a natural moisturizer for dry skin types. Honey is the key component of many beauty products available at your near by cosmetic store. Most of the big cosmetic brand use honey as key ingredient but such products are very costly you can prepare honey beauty products at your home with some simple techniques.

Before trying honey on your skin first check out whether you skin is allergic to honey or not. You can test the sensitivity of skin by applying honey to a patch around your neck.

Here are some of honey beauty tips below:

1. You can prepare a honey mask at your home. Just apply pure honey on your face and leave it for 15 or more minutes until it is completely dry. When the face becomes dry just rinse your face with warm water and you would see some astonishing changes on your skin after the application of honey.

2. Honey can also be used for body glow bath. Always keep a jar of honey in your bathroom and mix with your bath water. It helps to smoothen the skin and moisturizes it also honey gives an overall glow to the body making your skin smoother and shiner. You can apply honey to your skin and pat it dry using both hands. Honey can get sticky sometimes and might pull up your skinHoney Beauty so be cautious and pat your skin with honey slowly and gently. When you are done with application of honey rinse it away. Your skin will become more beautiful and with proper circulation you can have beautiful skin.

3. If you wish to have sweet soft and smelling skin then take honey bath. Just add one-fourth to half-cup of honey in your bath water.

4. Honey scrub is considered to be best for dry skin. Just prepare a mixture of one teaspoon of honey along with a little almond flour into the your hand. For a facial scrub just apply this mixture gently over your face. After the application of scrub leave it dry for 15 minutes and then rinse with warm water to remove the honey scrub.

5. You can also make a daily facial cleanser with the help of honey. Mix milk powder and one teaspoon of honey on your hands. Apply this mixture on to your face to clean away makeup and dirt. Leave it dry for few minutes and then rinse your face with warm water.

Asian Beauty Secrets

2007-10-28T14:21:00.000-07:00

Asian women are one of the most beautiful women in the world. Their beauty is due not only to the genetics but also to the way they take care of their skin and the procedures they do to maintain their beauty.

The traditional anti-aging products (creams, moisturizers, serums, masks) that are widely spread in USA and Europe are focused mainly on decreasing the signs of aging – wrinkles, fine lines, age spots. In other words these anti-aging products affect only the surface of the skin. Unlike the western medicine, the traditional Chinese medicine pay special attention to the whole body, as well as to the factors that lead to premature aging. The Chinese medicine pay attention to the internal organs, the presence of toxins in the body, the body energy.

We offer you a few simple and easy steps that include homemade masks, exotic foods and products that can transform your skin to a new, better level.

Panex Ginseng:

Panex Ginseng, known also as Ginseng is one universal “remedy“ widely used in the Asian countries. Ginseng contains many powerful molecules that drop away tiredness and stress in the body. It is rich in antioxidants that neutralize the free radicals which can seriously affect the skin. Ginseng also contains large amounts of natural steroids which are essential for the production of new skin cells.
According to the traditional Chinese medicine Panex Ginseng nourish the heart, the lungs, the spleen, the kidneys and the liver. Ginseng improvers the metabolism and the blood circulation – the two factors that are essential for healthy skin cells and for a younger looking skin.

How to use Panex Ginseng:

Buy 50g. Panex Ginseng (you can find it at the drugstore) and infuse it with 120ml. mineral water. Put the water and the ginseng in a pan and steam it for approximately 30 minutes. Drink ½ of the liquid before breakfast and consume the rest of it in the next day. Do this every other day for about two/ three week to achieve best results.

Pearl Beauty:

Asian women use pearl powder for centuries to keep their skin healthy-looking and to keep it nourished. The pearl powder contains amino acids and other elements that rejuvenate the skin.
The pearl powder soothes inflamed tissues, promotes healing and works especially well for those with sensitive skin as it calms inflammation, redness and skin irritations. The Asian women take pearl powder internally or apply it topically to smooth their skin and to maintain a younger appearance. Look for the Chinese Pearl Powder celled Zhen Zhu Mo.

How to use Pearl Powder:

Mix 1 tbsp. pearl powder with a yolk of egg and ½ tbsp. acacia honey. Add 2/ 3 tbsp. water if necessarily to mix the ingredients well. Apply the mixture to your face for approximately 20 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Rejuvenating foods:

Asian women have always included the healthiest foods (that slow down the aging process, improve skin’s elasticity and decrease the number of wrinkles) in their diet. These include dates, honey, cherries, rice, cucumbers, avocados, Chinese mushrooms. The Chinese mushrooms for example, not only rejuvenate the skin but they are also rich in vitamin B, iron, calcium, magnesium. The Chinese mushrooms have a wholesome effect on the blood, the heart and the lungs. These mushrooms have been recently researched and for their medicinal benefits, most notably for their anti-tumor properties. So buy Chinese mushrooms and cook them at home. Here you can find very interesting and easy to cook recipes with Chinese mushrooms.

Try acupressure:

Acupressure is an ancient healing and rejuvenating “art“ that stimulates the body’s self-curative abilities. Acupressure involves placing physical pressure by hand, elbow or with the aid of various devices on different points on the surface of the body.

At first the Asians use acupressure to increase their energy, but later they discovered that the procedure also improves blood circulation, body metabolism and as a result the facial muscles go slack and the skin becomes more elastic, free-of fine lines and wrinkles. So go to the nearest beauty salon and try this rejuvenating technique

Important Vitamins & Minerals Which Help To Have Healthy Hair

2007-10-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT VITAMIN & MINERAL FOR HAIR

Medical science has proved that when there is a deficiency of vitamins, minerals or iron than we become weak & its fulfillment makes us healthy again.

NEED OF VITAMINS:

Deficiency of Vitamin A, B3, B6, B4, Folic Acid, Vitamin E, F & minerals like iron, calcium & magnesium, sodium & potassium is associated directly or indirectly with the problem of hair.Problems like dryness of hair, falling of hair & white hair, explains us that one should eat food rich in vitamins.

WHAT ARE THE SOURCES:

Vitamin A which works especially for hair & skin. It is found in green vegetables & yellow color fruits, beans, pears & cereals. On the other and to remove the problem of hair all kinds of iron, minerals should be taken which are found in seasonal fruits & vegetables. Regular intake of such fruits & vegetables makes the hair strong & shine. Vitamins & minerals are each others supporters like Vitamin D helps in maintaining the proper quantity of calcium & phosphorous. But it is necessary to take it in proper quantity, so that the body takes the minerals & vitamins properly.

INNER CARE SHOULD ALSO BE DONE:

It is not possible to take such food regularly in proper quantity. That is why problems like dryness, falling & whitening of hair is natural. Thus food which is rich in iron, iron phosphate, calcium, magnesium, sodium & potassium should be undertaken. All these minerals not only removes there deficiency but also helpful in removing the problem of digestion & anemia.

CONTROL ANEMIA & HAVE HEALTHY HAIR:

Anemia is due to the deficiency of Red Blood Cells in body because it decreases the supply of oxygen to tissues. Due to which many problems are faced like falling of hair, dryness of hair etc. To remove the deficiency of blood in body it is necessary to take care about the food habits. Nutritious & balanced food is the best cure of anemia. Example it is necessary to have iron & folic acid in food & all of this can only be get through green vegetables, fresh fruits, salad, milk, curd & butter.

NECESSARY MINERALS FOR HAIR:

1. Proteins – amino acids, hydrolyzed proteins, keratin. (Eggs contain a protein that hair CANNOT absorb and adds no value to a product other than as a marketing tool.) This is good for the hair shaft.
2. Milk – for its protein, nit its fat. Good for split ends or damaged hair.
3. Balsam – excellent when combined with proteins. Adds volume by coating the shaft. The quantity of balsam in the shampoo should be based by the kind of hair it will be used on – straight, wavy, curly..
4. Vitamins – Panthenol found in B5 is absorbed into the shaft and helps strengthen it.
5. Moisturizers – lactic acid, lecithin, urea. Especially helpful for dry or over-colored hair.
6. Oils and waxes – avocado oil, coconut oil, wheat-germ oil. Provide a coating to retard water evaporation and the coat makes the hair look shiny and smooth. Beeswax and spermaceti also protect against water evaporation but aren’t as oily as the other oils.
7. Lemon – citric juice. Good was to strip accumulated oils and dirt for oily hair.
8. Allantoin – from the comfrey root. Good conditioner, increases the shaft’s water retention, is antidandruff, dissolves excess kerotin on the scalp or shaft.
9. Silk – coats the shaft and make it more reflective, and thus look shinier.
10. Sunscreens – will add minor protection from the sun, but don’t assume it does for your hair what it does for your skin.
11. Polymers – almost all shampoos and conditioners have this and it’s a nice coating that adds volume, strength to hair. But it attracts moisture in the air and makes hair feel kind of sticky. It shouldn’t be a large measure of the ingredients in the shampoo.
12. Vitamin A - promotes healthy scalp.
Food sources: dark green, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables.
13. Vitamin B complex - Regulates the secretion of oil, keeps hair healthy and moisturized.
Food sources: cerals, tomatoes, green vegetables.
14. A severe lack of biotin (one of the Vitamin Bs) can lead to hair loss. It works best with Vitamin B5, B12 and folic acid. Food sources: cauliflower, yoghurt, whole meal bread, bran and bananas.
15. Minerals such as zinc, iron and copper promote healthy hair.
Food sources: zinc, green vegetables; iron , dried apricot, wheatgerm and sunflower seeds; copper - and whole grains.
16. A lack of iron is cited to be the cause of hair loss among women who have not reached menpause.
17. Proteins - because hair is made up of 97% protein (keratin), consuming enough of it gives hair a natural shine.

Things that do not help in a conditioner:

1. Eggs contain a protein that hair CANNOT absorb and adds no value to a product other than as a marketing tool
2. Carrot oil – used for aroma and color, not for hair health.
3. Aloe – aids healing in burns but is only effective in living skin, not hair.
4. Vitamin E – this is a nutrient. Your hair doesn’t eat.
5. Malt – appears mostly in men’s shampoos but isn’t the most effective protein option.
6. Vitamin – only B5 helps because it contains panthenol.
7. Birch and all other herbs – birch is good when dabbed directly on an oily scalp for its astringent properties. All herbs effectiveness are totally lost when mixed in a shampoo.
8. Honey – does nothing to hair and is totally water soluble, so it gets rinsed out.
9. Jojoba – yes, it’s good while it’s on your hair, but it’s also water soluble, so it gets rinsed out.

Nail Care Do's & Don'ts

2007-10-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

Who among us doesn't feel better when we have a great set of nails to show off? Going to the salon and getting the works is one thing, but what are the steps to caring for those gorgeous nails all week long?

* Do coat the outside of the nails with polish or ridge fillers, which can help protect the nail and prevent breaking and splitting, at least while the manicure lasts.

* Do moisturize the cuticle area to prevent cracking and peeling, which can hurt the matrix.

* Do wear gloves to protect nails and cuticles from housework, gardening and washing dishes.

* Do be cautious when doing office work. Nails and cuticles take a beating filing, opening letters (use a letter opener), typing (use the flat of your finger pads on the keyboard instead of the tips of your nails) and handling papers.

* Do apply hand cream frequently, especially after you're done washing your hands, and pay attention to the cuticle area.

* Do wear a sunscreen during the day on your hands and cuticles to prevent sun damage, which can hurt your nails. Reapply every time you wash your hands.

* Do meticulously clean all nail implements and change nail files often. Bacteria and other microbes can get transferred by the nail tools you use, causing infection or harm to the matrix.

* Do disinfect any tears or cuts to the cuticle, and treat ingrown nails as soon as possible. Nail infections are not only unsightly, but also can cause long-lasting damage to the nail. Any drugstore antibacterial ointment, such as Polysporin, Neosporin or Bacitracin, will do.

* Don't use nail products that contain formaldehyde or toluene. They pose health risks for the nail and for your entire body as well.

* Don't use fingernails as tools to pry things open.

* Don't use your fingers as letter openers. That destroys the cuticles, which destroys the nail matrix and affects nail growth and strength.

* Don't soak nails for long periods, and never use any kind of soap or detergent when soaking. Nails and cuticles that become engorged with water weaken, and the longer soap or detergent is in contact with skin and nails (despite the advertisements for Palmolive dish detergent) the greater the potential for damaging the nail and cuticle structure.

* Don't overuse any kind of nail-polish remover. Use a minimal amount on the nail and avoid getting too much on the cuticle and skin.

* Don't push the cuticle back too far. Leave the cuticle alone as much as possible. Trim only the part of the cuticle that has started to lift away from the nail.

* Don't allow any manicurist to touch your hands with utensils that have not been properly sterilized. The importance of this step cannot be stressed enough. Risking your health and well-being for a manicure is just not worth it, and that is a definite possibility with bacteria-laden nail instruments!

* Don't pull or tear at hangnails. Always gently cut them away, leaving the cuticle intact and as untampered with as possible.

* Don't ignore nail or cuticle inflammation. Disinfect the skin as soon as you can with an antibacterial or anti fungal agent. Any change to the nail's appearance needs to be checked out by a dermatologist.

Beauty Secrets From The Kitchen

2007-10-20T14:18:00.000-07:00

Some more easy-to-implement beauty care tips

1. Watermelon juice clears the skin of all its blemishes leaving it fresh and lovely. Grate a watermelon, squeeze out the juice and apply it on your face for 15 minutes. Now wash it with hot water and then splash on cold water.

2. Fenugreek leaves (methi) cure pimples, blackheads, dryness and early appearance of wrinkles. Make a paste of these leaves and apply it every night. Next morning, wash off with warm water. This improves your complexion.

3. Tea leaves and lemon juice helps prevent hair fall. They also lead to soft and shiny hair. You need to boil the leaves in water and strain out the tea. Add a little lemon juice to this concoction and wash your hair with it. Rinse your hair thoroughly.

4. Bengal gram flour (besan) mixed with curd can be applied daily on your face and hair! It will not only give you a glowing complexion, but also long and lustrous locks.

5. Orange juice is great for an instant glow. All you need to do is dip your fingers in the juice and pat your cheeks, chin, neck and forehead. Wash off after ten minutes.

Your kitchen shelf has been secretly storing all these beauty secrets for years. It is up to you to discover more.

Facial Cleansers For A Man

2007-10-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

Facial Cleansers for a Man

Obviously, it is important to keep your face clean. A mild soap can take care of this step. There are also facial scrubs that “deep clean” by cleaning our pores and exfoliating the dead skin that leaves your face dull. A good facial cleaner is mild yet removes dirt without removing moisture. Many facial cleansers are formulated according to your skin type. So, what is meant by skin type and what are the skin types?

The cosmetic industry divides skin into four types: dry, normal, combination, and oily. Your skin type may vary over your lifetime. These changes are influenced by genetics, health problems, smoking, medications, and hormones. Climate and sun can also change your skin type. When purchasing facial cleansers, toners, moisturizers, etc., check the product for skin type. Many products are formulated for particular skin types.

TONERS:

Facial toners, also known as after shave, clean your face and tighten the pores. A good toner will not dry out your skin. Some toners contain glycolic acid which comes from the sugar cane plant. Glycolic acid can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A good toner will hydrate and smooth the skin. Toners with anti-oxidants will protect skin from free radicals and cell damage. Toners can control shine, cleanse pores, and break down blackheads. Anthony Logistics has a toner that won't dry out your skin. It contains ingredients such as chamomile which soothes and calms and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula is an antioxidant, while the glycerin retains moisture.

Zirh makes a toner that relieves redness, razor burns, and ingrown hairs while moisturizing your skin. Menaji's Glycolic Toner can also relieve ingrown hairs. Baxter of California makes a toner that has anti-inflammatory properties. More and more companies are making alcohol-free toners that won't dry out your skin. Menaji's Glycolic Toner can also relieve ingrown hairs. DHC makes a 2-in-1 toner/moisturizer that includes the anti-aging elements of vitamins A and E.

MOISTURIZERS:

Male skin is about 20% thicker than female skin. As we age, our skin becomes less elastic and more prone to dryness and wrinkles. More and more men are using skin care products and a good moisturizer is crucial to a good skin care regimen. Moisturizers help keep skin elastic and less prone to dryness and wrinkles.

Eye cream moisturizes the area around the eyes where the skin is typically thinner and prone to fine wrinkles and puffiness. Eye creams can reduce that stressed- out look that only the eyes can show. Be sure to apply your eye cream with the ring finger, that is, your fourth finger. It is your weakest finger. You don't want to use much pressure in this area or you will create more wrinkles.

Many moisturizers contain mineral oil. If you want to use a botanical-based moisturizer without mineral oil try Arbonne. Arbonne International uses only plant-based ingredients and is actually vegan certified.

So, when it comes to a man's skin care, it is still “a man’s world”. Keep it simple, keep it quick, and keep your skin in shape.

Indonesian Beauty Tips

2007-10-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

Indonesian beauty is based on the concept of getting back to nature with a holistic approach. The ancient tradition of natural health and wellness in the region is called Jamu. Jamu is the Indonesian tradition of using medicinal herbs to treat every aspect of life. In terms of beauty this means blending the leaves, roots, fruits, flowers and barks of various plants into treatments that rejuvenate and nourish the body and also create inner peace which translates to outer beauty.

For an Indonesian beauty experience at home, try some of these tips based on traditional Jamu beauty treatments utilized by Indonesian and Javanese royalty for hundreds of years.

Get a Foot Massage:

For a traditional Indonesian style foot massage, have the masseuse focus on foot reflexology, and soak your feet in flower water before your massage treatment. Use pumice made from volcanic stone to remove dead skin from your feet before the massage as well.

Use Coconut Milk as a Hair Conditioner:

For dry, brittle hair try using the ancient Indonesian remedy of rinsing the hair with coconut milk instead of a commercial conditioner during your shower. The milk will leave your hair moisturized and smelling like coconut.

Give your Body a Steam Treatment:

Traditional Indonesian spas offer steam treatments to specific parts of the body to tone the skin and flush toxins. To mimic these treatments, steam parts of the body for a ½ hour at a time. Steam your face by holding it over a sink full of hot water with a towel over your head. Steam other parts of your body by turning your bathroom into a steam-room after a shower.

Try Eating Indonesian Kepel Fruit:

Kepel fruit is a brown fruit that is about the size of an egg. The fruit is known in Indonesian beauty as a natural deodorant and eating the fruit is supposed to cause the body tsmell like the aromatic fruit.

Keep Coconut Oil in Close Reach:

In Indonesia and Java coconut oil is used to massage the skin and to treat damaged hair. Add a small amount of essential oil of orange flower or rose for added fragrance.

Soak in Goat’s Milk:

Mandi Susu is an ancient beauty bath used for princesses of Java to help them maintain soft and youthful looking skin. The old-fashioned treatment was to sit in a goat’s milk bath for 30 minutes and do not rinse afterwards. In a big city Indonesian spa you can get this treatment with new products that take out the taste and smell of the milk but keep the protein content for soft skin. Sheep’s milk or cow’s milk can also be used for mandi susu.

Relax with a Floral Bath:

Treat yourself to an Indonesian style floral bath after your home spa treatments. Add fresh or dried petals of jasmine, gardenia, hibiscus, magnolia, and rose to bathwater and soak for 20 minutes to relax your muscles and help build internal wellness.

Natural Makeup Remover

2007-10-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

You can make your own Make-Up Remover. Its really simple and easy to make.

Mix equal amount of Olive Oil, Castor Oil and Canola Oil and use a cotton ball to remove your Facial and Eye Make-Up. You can store this natural Facial and Eye Make-Up Remover in a tight container. Its shelf life is 6 Months.

Advantages Of Toners On Skin

2007-10-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

Toners, often called skin tonics and freshners, are the second step in a skin care routine. Skin toners are necessary for all skin types. Skin toners helps to improve blood circulation to the skin surface and gives the skin the glow that is associated with its good health.

Skin toning is the process of using specific products, to cleanse, strengthen, and tighten the skin. The results of toning are smaller, tighter pores, cleaner skin and firmer tighter skin. Laser Skin Toning is an exciting medical procedure that corrects the effects of the sun, wind, and time. Laser Skin Toning is performed using a beam of laser energy that vaporizes the upper layers of damaged skin at specific and controlled levels of penetration.

Laser Skin Toning is a relatively quick procedure. All toners are liquid, but there are various formulations, depending on the amount of alcohol they contain, available for all types of skin. Some are particularly good for dry skin, being alcohol free, while others have astringent properties that are particularly good for greasy skin and help to remove excess oil. A good way of toning the skin is to cotton wool pads soaking in a bowl of skin tonic, in the refrigerator. After cleansing the skin , wipe with the skin tonic pads and then pat the skin briskly. Toners can be used to clean the last traces of oil from the skin. They do not close or open pores. Sometimes they cause a slight skin irritation which makes the skin feel tighter. Skin toning lotions freshen the skin. They also stimulate the blood supply to the skin.

Tips For Artificial Nails

2007-10-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

Artificial nails are available in different sizes and colours. All you have to do is stick them on with nail glue. They can stay on for a few days, as long as you take care of them. If your hands spend a lot of time in the water, your nails may come off a little sooner. So, try not to get in the water for too long.

After sticking them on, you could apply nail polish, so that your nails look shining. If you want to remove your artificial nails, soak them in warm water for about ten minutes, and very gently peel them off. Just bear in mind that these products will not make your nails any healthier. In order for your nails to remain healthy, you should remove the artificial nails once in a while, and let your nails breathe for a few weeks.

Simple Beauty Tricks To Make You Look Young

2007-10-14T14:11:00.000-07:00

No matter how old you are you would like to look young and smart. There are a number of beauty tricks that can take the years off you. These beauty tips will make you look young and you will start feeling young too. Read the simple tips given below for a younger and smarter look:

* Wear your hair below your chin. Side-swept bangs and hair just below the chin will make you look younger.

* The shade of lipstick you use can add or take off years. Do not use lipsticks in shades of brown.

* After you are thirty do not over pluck your eyebrows, as they may not grow back as quickly as they did earlier.

* Get your teeth whitened. Get the stains of coffee, tea or red wine removed and you will look much younger.

* Stand straight and erect. Stand straight and erect. This will make you look a lot thinner and look younger too. This will also increase your confidence as well.

* Get a good night's sleep. If you do not sleep well your eyes will look puffy and your skin will look shallow and dull and your face will sag.

Tips To Maintain Your Manly Man Image With Some Grooming Techiques

2007-10-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

For many years, a haircut and a quick shave is only man grooming techniques for men.

However, today, they have many man grooming options for making themselves more attractive.

The man grooming options for men are a bit on the feminine side.

With advancements in man grooming techniques and changes of thoughts, men are taking part in almost every man grooming practice of women, such as caring their hair, nails, and skin in a way that they never did in the past.

Man grooming Practices for Increasing Beauty:

* Your hands can become rough and callused. Manicure can help make your hands look great. Previously, manicures were thought to be reserved only for women. However, in recent years, this has been adapted by men to take care of hands and nails.

In addition to this rejuvenating process, manicures are also proven to be a relaxing and stress relieving process.

For a perfect manicure, you start by placing your hands into a warm wrap. Next, exfoliate, trim your nails and cut cuticles, thus it gives your hands and nails a soft and attractive look.

Manicures also provide very relaxing experience through your hand massage. In addition to these, you will be surprised looking at the great change in hands. Thus, manicure gives you soft and well-treated hands by making a huge difference.

* Besides manicure, you have many other treatments that can pursue to improve your man grooming. Facial is the one among these treatments. Facials masks help provide skin care mostly to groom your face. When it comes to hygiene and man grooming, it is more important to maintain the skin on your face clean and clear.

Like manicures, facials were also reserved for women, but now it has become more and more common even for men. In human body, face is made up of sensitive skin when compared to other body areas, which are covered with tough skin. So, your face needs to be taken proper care than other body parts.

Facial can cleanse pores by giving you a healthy and flattering skin. As most of the men neglect the fact skin care is more important, especially for face, facials make a difference on the faces for those who long neglected.

Facial skin can differ from person to person; however, it may be very oily or very dry.

* Previously, men have not considered hair care to be that important, but now they started taking care of their hair, such as dying their hair.

As you enter your middle age, gray hair starts appearing. So, you can use hair dye as a way to maintain youthful look. You may feel dying hair to be somewhat girly, but you need to assure yourself that there is nothing wrong in dying hair.

If you feel uncomfortable getting dye in a salon, then you can prefer at-home hair dye kits that are available in stores.

Generally women wish their man to follow some more man grooming practices, but cannot convince them. So, prefer a couple of appointments in spas.

Ways To Get Rid Of Your Pores

2007-10-13T14:08:00.000-07:00

Pores are just a big pain, to everyone. The problem is that if you don’t treat them the right way, they will become enlarged and look even worse. Coupled with dry skin, it will make matters very unpleasant.

Fortunately, there are products out there that can minimize your pores, including makeup, which will not get rid of them, but will at least give the illusion of smaller pores.

Exfoliate:

First off, you need to use a good exfoliant. The grains in this face wash will help minimize the pores because it will polish off the dry, dead skin that causes the pores in the first place. Make sure you don’t overuse the exfoliator, as it can damage the skin if you’re too rough or you use it too often.

Get a Facial massage-facial:

Facials are another thing that can minimize/get rid of your pores. One of the most important things to look for before going for a facial, is a good facialist. Make sure you get someone who’s been in the field for a while and knows what she is doing. Facials are not only soothing and relaxing, but they treat your skin of whiteheads, blackheads, pores, pimples, and pretty much everything else that is bothering you!

Alpha and Beta Acids:

These acids exfoliate your skin to prevent dead skin cells from building up and clogging your pores. Look for products that contain salicylic acid. It will fight the sebum-packed pore, exfoliating the dead skin cells built up inside.

Makeup Fixes:

You can also minimize the appearance of your pores with a little bit of makeup. First off, you must lay off the foundation. Foundation will only make your pores look larger than they actually are. Instead, apply a blotting powder to the areas where your pores are most enlarged. The powder will diffuse the look of the pores, giving you a clean, matte look.

Use a Pore Perfecting Cream:

Find a good gel or cream aimed directly at minimizing the appearance of pores. Apply the product over the area that needs it. Let the gel/cream set for a little bit, and apply a powder over it.

Diet For Your Hair !

2007-10-13T14:07:00.000-07:00

DIET FOR YOUR HAIR

Long and beautiful hair has always been symbolic of a woman’s beauty. Every woman aspires for long, thick hair. But to flaunt a beautiful mane, a lot of regular hair care is required. Hair cannot be made beautiful by beauty aid alone. It requires a well balanced and nutritive diet too.

Here are a few simple yet useful tips on appropriate diets for your hair:

• If you want beautiful long hair, you will have to pay attention to your diet. The food you consume has a direct bearing on the health of your hair. The fresh items in the food certainly stimulate faster and healthy growth of hair.

• If you are one of those who take in a nutritive diet and consume plenty of water, there is no need for you to take in any additional vitamins. Your fibrous foods can include fruits and salads. Stay away from soups and juices.

• A balanced diet should include proteins, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and fats. Absence of even one of these could cause damage to the hair. Your hair turning grey is the first signs that your diet lacks proteins. Inadequacy of vitamin A makes hair dry and rough. Lack of vitamin C results in retarding your hair growth.

• Vitamin B lends shine to the hair and increases their density. Make sure that your diet contains all these essential nutrients.

Listed below are few salad recipes you could use which could prove beneficial for hair growth.

Seasonal Fruit Salad:

Take some seasonal fruits like watermelon, sweet melon, papaya, pomegranate, pineapple, banana and cherries. Cut their pulp into small pieces. Remove seeds. Sprinkle black salt and eat chilled.

Beetroot-Potato Salad:

Cut beetroot, cucumber, boiled potato, paneer (cottage cheese) and tomato into small pieces. Mix them with grated cabbage. Add fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper to one’s taste and serve.

Germinated Salad:

Soak some pulses like moong (yellow lentil) and black gram overnight. When germinated, add tomato, small bits of onion, coriander leaves, lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste.

Tips To Avoid Split Ends

2007-10-10T14:06:00.000-07:00

The truth is, once the damage is done and your hair is split, there is nothing you can do to fix it. You will have to get a trim and have the damaged ends removed.

Split ends are caused by many things- over brushing, exaggerated backcombing, brushing wet hair, coloring and perming, vigorous towel drying, elastic bands, hair accessories and your health, to name just a few.

Long, healthy, split-end free hair takes work and effort. Many people seem to forget this and then wonder why their hair doesn't grow, or why they have to have a couple of inches chopped off their hair when they visit a salon.

If your hair is damaged and you have split ends, the only effective way to get rid of them is to have them cut off.

Once you get your hair cut and all the split ends removed, do not ignore your hair!
You should trim your hair about every six weeks to prevent split ends returning.
Click here

A lot of women think the length of their hair is more important then their split ends... "I'm trying to grow my hair... If I skip my next trim my hair will grow longer, faster!"

WRONG! Do not ignore your split ends, because once they are there, they will only get worse. The longer you leave them, the further they will climb up the hair shaft. When you finally go for a trim, you will have no choice by to chop off even MORE of your hair!

It is better to have regular trims and keep those split ends at bay!

There are a few products that can temporarily cure your split ends by sealing and coating the split ends and smoothing them down. However, as soon as your hair is washed or brushed, they will re-appear. Intensive conditioning treatments offer a temporary solution by reconstructing the hair shaft.

But the only real solution for split ends is simply to avoid them.

How to avoid split ends:

* Do not brush your hair when it's wet. Wet hair stretches up to 25% and is most vunerable. Use a wide tooth comb to gently de-tangle your hair.

* Give your colored or permed hair the extra care it deserves. Use appropriate hair treatments.

* Heated appliances such as hair dryers and straightening irons can dry out your hair and make it brittle. Avoid these appliances as much as possible. If you have to use them, use a protective product.

* Let your hair dry naturally whenever you can; have a day, perhaps Sunday where you don't blow dry your hair, use product or straighten your hair.

* Rather than towel drying your hair, try to blot it gently instead.

* Avoid using rubber bands to tie up your hair. Use covered elastic bands, preferably the ones without the metal, as these can pull and tear your hair.

* Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your health and diet can affect your hair condition - a low fat diet can cause dull, dry hair which will split faster because there is not enough lubrication on the hair follicle.

Yoga & Meditation To Achieve Harmony Between Body & Mind

2007-10-10T14:01:00.000-07:00

In Ayurveda, yoga means union, and is a traditional system of healing the mind and body. It is believed that yoga cleanses the body of toxins, improving muscle tone and blood circulation.

An ancient system of practices originating in India, It is aimed at integrating mind, body and spirit to enhance health and well-being. There are many different forms of yoga. Hatha yoga, the most widely practised form of yoga in the Western world uses specific postures and breathing exercises.

Some define Yoga as a spiritual practice which includes posture breath control and meditation. The word is derived from the Sanskrit meaning to bind, join, yoke, direct, to use and apply. In other words, An ancient Indian philosophy and way of life, where complete harmony between our body and mind is achieved by special exercise, breathing and meditation.

* If the mind is kept cool and calm at all times, you will have wonderful health, strength and vitality.

* Let any disease remain in your body. Do not bother too much. Develop the powers of endurance and resistance. Strengthen your body, mind and nerves.

* Take plenty of open-air exercises, substantial nutritious food, medicated oil bath and plenty of rest.

* Be moderate in food, drink and enjoyments. Lead a spiritual life. All diseases will leave your body by themselves.

* Do not go to the doctors very often unless emergency. Endeavour to qualify yourself as your own doctor. Understand the laws of nature and the principles of hygiene and health.

* Bask in the sun. Expose your body to the rays of the sun for a short time daily. This is heliotherapy or sun-treatment. Sun is the source of energy and power. You will derive energy and power from the sun.

* Soak 12 almonds at night. Remove the skin and take the almonds with some sugarcandy in the early morning. Or you can make a refreshing beverage by grinding these almonds with a little black pepper and sugarcandy. This is a fine, cooling and strength-giving tonic.

* Rest in bed is necessary. Adjust your diet. Take simple, wholesome, easily digestible, bland and non-irritating food. Give up hot, pungent curries, chutneys and chilliest.

* If you can fast for a whole day, it is all the better. Fasting eliminates poisons and overhauls the system thoroughly. You can take sago and milk barley water and fruits like sweet oranges, grapes, etc.

* Observe Brahmacharya. Get up at 4 a.m. And practice Japa of 'Hari Om' or any other Mantra and also meditation for one hour. The Name of the Lord is the best medicine or tonic in the world.

* You should have intense faith in the power of the Names of the Lord. Incurable diseases are cured by Japa or singing Hari's Name.

* Meditation creates new, healthy vibrations in all the cells of the body and removes any kind of disease. All the tissues are bathed in the nectar that flows during meditation. All germs that cause diseases are destroyed.

* Resort to Nature Cure and Yogic Chikitsa. Practise regularly Pranayama, breathing exercises, Asanas, concentration and meditation. This is the ideal treatment.

* Have a cheerful countenance always. Smile and laugh.

Vitamins That Help Hair Grow

2007-10-08T14:42:00.001-07:00

As with skin, what you eat affects your hair. Hair follicles rely on nourishment from the bloodstream, but they compete with the rest of your body for nutrients.

In the body’s pecking order, hair is a non essential organ, if your diet is lacking, nutrients are diverted to higher priority organs. And your hair misses out. The result is hair that’s dry and slow to grow. Beating this is simple just make sure you eat a well balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, with at least two servings of protein a day and large amounts of energy giving wholegrain carbohydrates. This will ensure optimum nutrition for the entire body and your hair will get. Its fair share will then grow at its maximum speed (normally around 14mm a month) strength and thickness. You can also help prevent particular hair problems with diet. This doesn’t mean that a good breakfast will beat a bad hair day. Hair takes three months to grow, so that’s how long it will take to see the results of any dietary changes nor can you eat your way out of a bad hairdo. No amount of vitamins will help hair that’s chemically damaged or split. But you can help some other things.

OILY HAIR:

While naturally oily hair is genetically determined (and nothing you eat Can beat your genes), if your hair has suddenly turned oily check your spice intake, foods that cause the skin to sweat like curries or chilli also cause the scalp to sweat and this increases oil levels.

DULL HAIR:

Lack of shine in your hair means that it’s not reflecting the light properly. Healthy hair is formed with a fiat cuticle, and when light rays hit this they bounce back that’s what creates the shine However, if the cuticle on the hair lifts, that reflection won’t happen and hair will look dull. So why does the cuticle lift? while chemical processes like bleaching are the most common cause, lack of protein also causes the hair to grow with a lifted cuticle. It is recommended that you eat 0.75g of protein (like lean meat, poultry, Fish, dairy products, nuts, seeds or pulses) per kilogram of body weight a day.

DRY HAIR:

This is one of the common symptoms of essential fatty acid deficiency. This is particularly true if your hair is flyaway and frizzy. Boost EFAs by eating nuts, seeds and oily fish like mackerel. These foods also supply protein, which is vital for glossy hair without it, the hair forms with a lifted cuticle which reduces the hairs natural protection, making it easier for moisture to evaporate and drying to occur

HAIR THAT WON'T GROW:

The B vitamins, which provide the body with energy, are vital for hair growth. If your energy levels are low, hair growth slows down. Eating little and often will help to keep energy levels up. Biotin(sometimes called vitamin H) also helps create thicker, faster growing hair you’ll find it in eggs, fish, milk, nuts and pulses.

THINNING HAIR:

This tends to be linked to iron deficiency. Ensure you re reaching around 14.8mg of iron a day from a supplement or by filling your diet with lean red meat or dark green vegetables also, too much vitamin A (over 10,000 units a day) can lead to hair loss. This is only likely to happen if you are taking in high levels of a heavy foods or if you’re mixing supplements. If you are, stopping vitamin A is toxic to the body and hair loss is the first sign of this. If you want extra vitamin a for your skin, increase your intake of fruit and vegetables.

Tips For Making Lipstick Stay Longer

2007-10-08T14:42:00.000-07:00

Foundation, a lip brush, and a tissue can boost lipstick’s staying power. They cover lips with a light coat sheer foundation, which serves as a primer for color.

Define your lips with liner, and then use the liner to fill in your entire mouth. Apply lipstick with a lip brush, it helps press in and “set” the color and then blot with a tissue

Creating A Layer:

For a sheer, natural finish dip your finger in water, then into pink or red Jell-O powder; rub over lips and top with balm to create an amazing stay-put shade. You can also try layering a clear gloss over a lip stain. Look for one that is not watery. They will bleed less.

All Day Wear:

For a long-lasting color apply color and topcoat separately. Most of them work but sometimes they it feel dry and heavy.

Powder Power:

To prevent constant touch-ups, put on liner, then lipstick; dab translucent face powder over the mouth; reapply liner and lipstick. Dusting power on top of creams sets them. This trick sure works and it last long.

Makeup Tips For Flawless Look !

2007-10-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

If you don't apply foundation before going out, you're making a mistake. Foundation, if applied well, can make your skin look soft, smooth, flawless and simply spectacular.

* Make sure the foundation matches your skin tone.

* Do you have a sponge for applying foundation? If not, get one. It ensures an even application.

* Mix a little moisturiser in your foundation. Most skins are dehydrated even though we may not realise it. In any case, moisturiser adds a sheen to the foundation.

* Mix an equal amount of foundation and moisturiser in the palm of your hand, and wipe it over your face.

* Blend it with a damp sponge and finish off with a dusting of compact powder. And voila! You won't be able to tear your eyes away from the mirror.

Shaping Up The Twin Assets Right

2007-10-08T14:39:00.000-07:00

You are on intimate terms with it. Sometimes, you let the world have a peek at it. Other moments are spent wriggling in an attempt to keep it away from prying eyes. But one thing is for sure. You need it. Women have always had a love-hate relationship with the bra.

It was invented in the early 20th century to replace the tight and sometimes suffocating corset which was known to cause nausea, bowel disturbances and fainting spells.

But since a woman's 'ideal shape' changes as often as fashion dictates it should, the bra has altered several times too.

Natural fabrics, for instance, are often replaced with stretchier synthetics. And styles that once were based on the concept of 'support' are replaced by the concept of 're-shape'. Which means that these days, the bra can be as unsafe as the corset ever was.

However, since it is highly unlikely that women will ever give up style in favour of support, here's a guide to the brassiere and how to wear it right.

When international fashion dictated that lingerie should be created in all kinds of fabric including silk, lace, satin, knit and synthetics, Indian lingerie makers were quick to follow.

But, as Dr Anil Kumar Mallik, consultant dermatologist, GM Modi Hospital, Delhi, points out, there is a huge difference between the Indian and the European climate.

"Here, it is hot and humid for about eight months of the yeal:" says Dr Mallik. "Fabrics like polyester and other synthetics, even though they do offer shape and a good fit, simply do not suit our climate."

These fabrics do not absorb perspiration very well. "The constant rubbing of wet skin against the fabric causes rash," continues Dr Mallik. "That makes you itchy and uncomfortable."

And should you have sensitive skin in any case, you could be in real trouble.

"Ten to twenty per cent of women are atopics or allergic to synthetics and knits fabrics," claims Dr Mallik. But the litany of doctors' complaints against synthetic fabrics doesn't stop there. Synthetics generate static electricity. In other words, they emit heat, which adds to discomfort. This is not just a summer problem.

In winter, we tend to sweat beneath the layers of clothing we wear "Excessive rubbing and scratching can also make the skin lumpy, resulting in hard nodules on the surface of the skin," warns Dr Mallik. Acne and pimples can also flare up on the back and in the upper chest region. So what is the solution?

You can wear lingerie made with synthetic fabrics when you know you are heading for a temperature-controlled environment where you intend to stay Otherwise, stick to good old cotton.

Cotton lingerie in a variety of pretty, sexy styles is available in the market, says Rakhi Oswal, director, operations, Oswal Group, the company that owns the lingerie chain, Straps.

"Comfort is at its best with cotton, though it doesn't always give the most flattering fit and form," she says. What is the purpose of a bra? To support the breasts so they don't sag. But that little fact seems to have been forgotten. Now we wear bras according to fashion, which means they are often too loose or too tight to do our bodies any good.

"If you wear tight bras every day, the tissues and ligaments of the breasts get compressed, which leads to injury and pain," says Dr Devansh, senior plastic and aesthetic surgeon, Max Healthcare, Delhi.

An American study on the subject has found that restrictive bras block the circulation of the lymph system that plays an important part in the purification of the body. As a result, toxins in the area are not allowed to drain. Equally important is the problem of back pain. Large-breasted women who wear bras that don't offer enough support are at great risk of back problems.

To see whether your bra is the correct fit, check for strap marks on your body at the end of the day If they are clearly visible, you are in trouble. Bras that allegedly change the shape of your breasts should be avoided, says Dr Devansh. "Re-shaping is not possible. Breasts do not become pert because of bras. They only sag because of loose ones." And bras that are too loose are a also a big mistake.

"Women with large breasts in fact tend to wear ill-fitting bras to minimise the size of their breasts. The lack of good support leads to de-shaping," says Dr Ranjana Sharma, senior consultant gynecologist, Fortis la Femme.

Support group: There are a variety of straps available in the market, from criss-cross to transparent plastic, colourful to halter-neck. But how much support to do they really offer?

Without adequate support, we can develop poor posture or experience neck, back and shoulder pain. Dr Sharma advises against elastic straps. Cotton straps are the best, he says. Plastic straps should also be avoided because they do not absorb sweat Straps that are too narrow can cause nagging headaches because they put too much pressure on the trapeze muscle, leading to strain. But what about the styles: the halter-neck and strapless bras?

"They are safe as long as they give support," says Dr Sharma.

"Strapless bras should only be worn occasionally"

Underwired bras, usually, are a good option because they support the breasts well, but when the wires twist - as they tend to do when they are machine-washed instead of handwashed - they can lead to inflammation and trauma, says Dr Anita Gupta, consultant gynaecologist, GM Modi Hospital, Delhi. "And avoid underwired bras that are too tight," she adds.

Homemade Fruit Face Mask

2007-10-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

FRUIT FACE MASK

INGREDIENTS:

* 1 packet Un-flavored Gelatin

* 1/2 cup Fresh Fruit/Vegetable Juice/Pulp

STEPS:

Gently heat the gelatin with your liquid until the gelatin is dissolved completely. Let cool until it is almost set. Apply the mixture on your face and let dry completely. Peel off!

Note: Use citrus fruits like orange juice/ grapefruit juice/ lime juice for Oily Skin and use apple/pear/melon/papaya/banana/avocado/peach for dry skin.

Wonderful Tips To Have A Fairer & Glowing Skin

2007-10-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

TIPS FOR FAIRER & GLOWING SKIN

1. Cauliflower juice applied on warts regularly will make them fall.

2. For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered) with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.

3. Mix half teaspoon dried curry leaf powder with multani mitti (fullers earth) and apply on the face. Wash it after it gets dry.

4. Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.

5. Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.

6. Add two teaspoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curd and apply on the face.

7. Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.

8. Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together and apply it on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.

9. Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.

10. Mix curd and cucumber juice and apply it on the face.

11. Apply the mixture of coconut water and thick pineapple juice.

12. Make a paste with 1/2 teaspoon of milk powder, 1/4 teaspoon of egg white and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and apply on the face.

13. For dry skin, Make a paste with egg yolk, olive oil and lemon juice. Apply it on the neck and face, wash it out after 10 minutes.

14. For oily skin, take a mixture of oatmeal and egg white and apply it on the neck and face

15. For glowing skin, use besan or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.

16. Apply the mixture of raw turmeric and cream of milk on the face and wash it after 20 minutes. It will make your skin fair.

17. Apply the mixture of honey, besan, cream of milk and olive oil as a face pack.

18. Apply the paste of fenugreek with milk on the face and let it dry. Wash off with lukewarm water.

19. Make a paste of red sandal wood and apply it on the face every day for glowing skin.

20. Make a paste with red sandal powder and coconut milk and apply on the face for soft skin.

21. Mix honey, lemon and Olive oil .This mixture is a good moisturiser for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.

22. Prepare a mask by mixing a slice of pumpkin with egg yolk and milk. Let this mask set on your face for 30 minutes for a glowing skin.

Note: However feel comfortable & be confident with your natural skin complexion.

Natural Skin Care Regimen Made Easy

2007-10-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

Natural skin care is finally getting the recognition it deserves. One of the reasons is because it’s flexible – you can make it in your kitchen at home, or buy it from the local department or drugstore. Another reason is because it contains ingredients that are healthy not only for your body, but for your skin.

What's wonderful about this type of skin care is that it contains products that are naturally derived from the earth – roots, herbs, oils and flowers, but they are manufactured in a way that preserves the integrity of the ingredient. It’s far less irritating to the skin because it doesn’t include synthetic chemicals. You now have a natural alternative without the unwanted side effects.

Because these products do not contain any complex chemicals, you never have to worry about your skin absorbing anything that may be potentially harmful to your body in the long run. The word “natural” is used very casually by different vendors, so before you purchase any products, check the ingredient label. If there are any long, complex names on the label that you can’t pronounce, then chances are it isn’t very natural at all.

List of natural ingredients and their benefit:

◈Aloe Vera and honey – soothes sensitive skin
◈Mixture of cucumber and tomato – reduces large pores
◈Avocado and banana are great for dry skin
◈Garlic is used as an antiseptic for acne
◈Yogurt cleans, heals and softens the skin
◈Oatmeal makes the skin smooth and soft, and can also be used as an exfoliant in a scrub
◈Cucumber cools the skin and helps tighten skin tissues. Also used as an astringent and cools the skin
◈Carrot is used as antiseptic
◈Papaya relieves surface tension and is a very strong treatment, so don’t rub it into the skin but apply for a few minutes
◈Honey rejuvenates and hydrates the skin
◈Avocado contains oil that is beneficial for dry and mature skin
◈Banana works wells on dry and mature skin
◈Tomato helps tighten pores

You can use natural skin care recipes to make remedies to care for your skin at home. Many spas and skin care salons now focus on using more natural skin care products. Over the past ten years, more companies are coming forward and distributing their own all-natural or organic products to the general public.

Please be aware that you may have to take special care in protecting your products from heat, light or bacteria. The reason is because companies are including fewer preservatives to maintain the product, so they don’t last as long compared to standard commercial products.

Tips To Persuade & Influence Others

2007-10-04T14:33:00.000-07:00

The saying "No man is an island" is an undeniable truth. We need the support and cooperation of other people to help us in reaching our goals.

Successful people know that one of the most important abilities to possess is the ability to persuade and influence others.

Here are some hot tips to do this effectively:

1. Enter Their World

Try to put yourself in the other’s shoes and understand the situation from their point of view. Set aside your personal interests and concentrate on them.

Ask yourself if you are them, what would you do? What would be your opinion? Then take the appropriate action that would be beneficial to them.

2. Mirror Their Body Language:

People feel comfortable with those who are like them. Copy the person you are trying to create a connection with.

Observe how they act, how they speak, and how they think. If they rub their forehead while they think, act like them. If they speak at a clear and slow pace, try to do the same thing. This is called mirroring.

In due time, the people you're mirroring will subconsciously feel more comfortable with you. It's as if they see themselves in you.

Proceed with caution, however. Do not let them be aware that you are copying them. They might interpret it as mockery and you'll just get into trouble.

3. Be Cheerful and Nice:

Did your mother tell you to be nice to people? She was right. People like others who brighten up their day.

Make a sincere compliment to raise their spirits. Little things like these go a long way to breaking the ice and setting the relationship off to a good start.

4. Be Sincere and Trustworthy:

Make them feel that whenever they need help or just someone to look up to, you'll always be there to lend a hand. People tend to be more receptive to those they trust.

If you have a boss or client you are trying to please, overdeliver and exceed their expectations. Soon, they will notice your efforts and will be more than glad to grant your request.

5. Provide Them With Compelling Evidence:

Explain to them how your ideas or suggestions could be the most effective techniques to implement.

Show them undeniable proof that you have the best product by way of testimonials, before and after scenarios, and detailed comparisons against your competitors.

Just make sure that all your claims are true and verifiable. Always maintain a good reputation.

6. Show Them “What’s In It For Them”:

This is the most important thing to remember when persuading anyone. People are self-centered. They always put their own well-being before others.

No matter how close you are to becoming like them or how overwhelming your evidence is, if it does not satisfy the "What's In It For Me?" test, your persuasion efforts will not produce satisfactory results.

If you can prove that your proposal will provide more advantageous benefits to them than to you, they are more likely to accept it.

7. Genuinely Care For Them:

Focus more on their interests, desires, needs, and expectations, so you can satisfy their craving for attention, and establish mutual trust and respect.

It also shows that you really care about them and that will make them more likely to trust you and want to work with you.

Natural Beauty Care Tip For Your Skin

2007-10-03T14:32:00.000-07:00

There are some natural treatments for your skin that most definitely deserve a second look when it comes to their many benefits. One of the best ingredients to moisturize and heal your skin is milk, and one of the best types of milk that you can use to cleanse your skin is goat’s milk.

Milk has been used for centuries as an effective skin treatment. Cleopatra used to take regular milk baths, which could have been the reason for her beautiful skin. There are a number of nutrients in milk that are good for your skin, including vitamins A and D as well as probiotics. The lactic acid in milk also contains natural beta hydroxy acids that act as an exfoliator to strip the skin of dead cells and leave it soft and silky smooth. The reason that goat’s milk is such a good choice in skin care is because the pH in this particular milk matches the pH in our skin better than any other type of milk, adding to the soft, supple feel after washing with it.

How to Use Goat’s Milk as a Skin Care Product:

So you have decided that goat’s milk will be good for your skin, but how do you use it? This can actually be the easy part, since there are any number of commercial skin care products available that contain this wonderful ingredient. You can select from lotions, creams and soaps that will pamper your skin as they moisturize. You can also create your own goat’s milk bath by adding a cup or two of the milk to your tub. It is best to warm the milk a bit before pouring it into the bath. You can also add a couple of drops of the essential oil of your choice (almond oil works well) for additional moisturizing qualities and fragrance.

Goat’s milk soap is another good choice in a bath product that is strong enough to thoroughly cleanse, but gentle enough for even the youngest bathers in your household. People with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis have also found goat’s milk soaps and other bath products to be beneficial to their skin. At the very least, these products will be gentle enough that they won’t exacerbate any type of skin condition.

Milk has been a skin care ingredient that has been used for centuries by some of the most beautiful women in history. Why not try this amazing product for yourself, and indulge in a goat’s milk bath the next time you decide to hit the tub? If it’s good enough for Cleopatra, surely it will work for you!

Easy To Implement Hair Care Tips For Healthy & Shiny Hair

2007-10-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

For Healthy and Shiny hair:

* It is better to apply castor oil for a healthy growth of hair.

* Wash hair with tea once in a week.

* Apply besan in the hair and wash it with water drained from the cooked rice.

* Soak a handful of gooseberry in a cup of milk for two hours. Make it as a paste and apply in the hair.

* Apply the mixture of an egg white, 2 spoon of castor oil, 1 spoon glycerin, in the scalp and hair. Wash it after some time.

* Massage hair with warm coconut oil an hour before washing. Let it soak. Cover your head with a hot towel and wash your hair after an hour or so.

* Boil a few hibiscus flowers in coconut oil. Filter and use this hair oil to control hair loss and thinning.

* Do a 'steam-towel-wrap' once in a while, if your cuticles are damaged, as this steaming opens out the pores and absorbs the oil.

* Deep condition with curd, beer and egg.

* Mix a little vinegar in warm water and rinse your hair with this solution. This will add bounce to dull and lifeless hair.

* Soak 1 teaspoon fenugreek in curd and keep it for a night. Have it in the next morning.

* Boil coconut oil with the juices of curry leaves, basil, hibiscus flower and gooseberry. Apply on hair, keep it for sometime and rinse.

* Egg white and curd is a good conditioner for hair.

* Take a cup of coconut and mustard oils. Soak half a cup of curry leaves in the oil mixture and keep it for a night. Next morning, heat on a slow fire till the curry leaves turn crisp. Remove from heat and add two to three camphor balls. Allow oil to cool and then strain. Apply oil to hair roots using cotton wool along the parting and massage in circular movements. Leave the oil overnight and shampoo the next morning. Repeat twice a week.

* Add a lemon peel to a 'shikakai' and 'amla' mixture while washing your hair.

Facial Masks That Whiten Skin & Cure Wrinkles

2007-10-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

Facial masks that whiten skin, soothe and smooth wrinkles:

* Combine 1 raw egg yolk with 1 tsp of honey and 1 tsp of glycerin. Apply to the face and keep for about 2 hours. Wash off with lukewarm water. Keep the rest of the mix in fridge for no more than few days. This facial mask can be repeated 2-3 times a week.

* Mix together 100 g of sour cream, 100 g of vodka, juice of 1 lemon and 1 raw egg yolk. Whip and keep in the fridge under tight lid. Apply on a clean face, neck and hands before bed. Wash off in the morning with warm water.

* Carefully combine 1 whipped raw egg white, 1tsp of lemon juice, 1 tsp of grated lemon peel and 2 tsp of oats. Mix well and apply to the face. Keep for 10 min. To remove this facial mask soften it with wet cloth and splash your face with cool water afterwards.

* Mix together 100 g of honey and juice of 1 lemon. Apply thin layer to the face and keep on for 15 min. Wash off with warm water (no soap).

* Mix together 2 tsp of oat flour, 1 raw egg yolk and 2 grated carrots. Leave on your face for 20 min; wash off first with warm then cold water. Add 20 drops of lemon juice and use this facial mask as whitening.

* Mix together 1 tbsp of linden flowers, 1 tbsp of crushed fennel or parsley and 1 tsp of crushed sage or oak bark. Add 2-3 cups of boiling water and divide everything in half. One half of liquid should be 35-36° C and the other half-24-25° C. Use both halves in rotation to wash your face. Start with hot liquid and end with the cool one. Do it 2-3 times. Repeat the procedure twice a week.

Yogurt For Beauty

2007-10-01T14:28:00.000-07:00

Yogurt is not only a delicious, healthy food but you can also use it for your skin and hair, as it is a natural softener. Make your own yogurt at home by adding a spoonful of yogurt to a bowl of boiled and cooled milk.

As a hair conditioner:

Yogurt is recommended as a natural hair conditioner. Wash and rinse your hair, then rub some yogurt into the scalp and leave for 15 minutes. Rinse and then wash again.

For dandruff:

An hour before shampooing your hair, work a liberal amount of yogurt into your hair, then shampoo and rinse thoroughly.

For nail care:

Your hands and nails can also benefit from yogurt. Mix some yogurt with lemon juice. Keep it in the fridge for a few hours and use to massage your hands and nails. Your hands will become soft and supple and your nails will acquire a healthy shine.

As a face pack:

Mix yogurt with a pinch of turmeric to make a face mask. This paste can also be applied and massaged on your arms and legs. Rinse with cold water and wash with gram flour. This serves as an excellent pack for your skin.

As a pre-bath gel:

Mix eight spoons of yogurt, one spoon of vegetable oil and three spoons of lemon juice. Apply this pack on your body with firm upward movements. Rinse off after 10 minutes. This rejuvenates your skin.

As a skin softener:

Take a bowl of yogurt, petals of six roses, and two spoons of talcum powder. Mix them well and apply on your face. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Mix yogurt with wheat flour and apply this paste on your skin 10 minutes before taking a bath.

In a bowl, mix together four spoons of plain yogurt and one egg. After shampooing, apply the mixture on your head and thoroughly massage into your hair. Work from root to tip to make sure all your hair gets coated. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water. This is specially good for softening dry hair.

Easy Homemade Facial Mask

2007-09-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

It’s the weekend so it’s time to give yourself a break and indulge in a luxurious at-home spa. Put in some bath salts, relaxing music, and make yourself an indulging, all-natural at home facial mask.

This facial mask is absolutely invigorating as well as soothing. It is made with rose oil and honey so it smells good too!

Sweet almond oil is good for the skin because it is light and easily absorbed which leaves your skin smooth and nourished. The honey moisturizes your skin and leaves it extra smooth. This is what you will need:

2 tsp honey

2 tsp sweet almond oil

5 drops essential oil of Rose

1 drop Vitamin E oil

Mix the honey, sweet almond oil and essential oil of rose. Massage into onto your face and neck. Kick back and relax for 15-20 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water. Gently pat dry for super-soft, rejuvenated skin.

Funky & Fashionable Rings

2007-09-29T14:20:00.000-07:00

Accessories can help your outfit because they emphasize your style as well as your look. Weather it’s a necklace, a belt, or in this case, rings. This fall, we will see a lot of big, chunky, as well as very funky, fashionable rings.

This season, big, chunky rings are extremely hot. They are reminiscent of the Twenties and Thirties, combined with a modern bohemian look. So wear these funky rings with a simple outfit and you’ll see the difference!

The ring here by Rachel Leigh is very bubbly and fun. The earthy tones combined with the pearls and cute Swarovski crystals make this an unforgettable ring.

Japanese designer Nakamon crafted this flower ring beautifully. The ring is made of amber and jade and comes with an adjustable band. Because these are natural stones, the ring is asymmetrical (every single stone is slightly a different size).

This resin ring is embedded with mother of pearl, which gives it that shimmery glow. The ring is designed by a Dutch team called Origin, and it comes with an adjustable back. It represents simplicity as well as strength.

Simple Hommade Remedies For Pimples

2007-09-27T14:19:00.000-07:00

REMEDIES FOR PIMPLES:

* Apply grated potatoes as poultice to treat skin blemishes, wrinkles, boils, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads , etc.

* Make a paste of sandalwood with rose water. Apply on affected area. Wash it off after 20-30 minutes with lukewarm water.

* Make a paste of ground radish seeds with water and apply on face to remove blackheads.

* Apply a paste of ground seasame seeds with water as poultice for inflammation of the skin due to allergies, skin rashes, and pimples.

* Apply a paste of fresh fenugreek leaves in water over the face every night and washed with warm water in the morning for preventing pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, dryness, and wrinkles.

* Apply a decoction on the face, made by boiling 1 teaspoon fenugreek (dana methi, methi) seeds in 1 liter water for a few of minutes for preventing pimples, blackheads, dryness, and wrinkles.

* Make a paste of ground orange peel with water. Apply on affected area. Wash it off after 20-30 minutes with lukewarm water.

* Make a paste of salt in vinegar. Rub it on the pimples. Wash it off after 20-30 minutes with lukewarm water.

* Make a paste of turmeric powder in mint juice. Apply on affected area. Wash it off after 20-30 minutes with lukewarm water.

* Make a paste of neem leaves with turmeric powder. Apply on affected area. Wash it off after 20-30 minutes with lukewarm water.

* Apply of fresh mint juice over face every night to cure pimples or

Three tablespoons of Honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

Beauty Care Starts With Our Diet

2007-09-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

Beauty care starts with our diet. Diet does not mean just losing weight. Diet means the food you put in your daily eating habits.

1. A rule of thumb for eating habits are...don't eat more calories than you consume. Don't go one single day without doing something extra and physical for at least 30 minutes per day. This can be three ten minute walks. Or 30 minutes of vigorous aerobics, or 12 minutes of weight lifting and 18 minutes of walking.

2. Water, you need water. Try to add at least 4 more glasses of water to your daily diet. The rule of thumb for water is 8 glasses per day; and one extra for every ten pounds overweight you are.

3. Fats, you need to know about fats. There are different kinds of fats. Some fats are better for you than others. A rule of thumb on fats is, stay away from hydrogenated fats. These are fats that solidify. They are in store bought cakes, cookies, crackers, chips and even in bran muffins. Read the labels.

Choose fats that are polyunsaturated or fats such as olive oil. And, eat some fish to get some omega-3 fats. Carbohydrates - Are your immediate fuel source. An average is about 55 percent of your diet in carbohydrates. So, a rule of thumb is, figure your protein grams, get around 25% fat per day, and the rest would be in carbohydrates.
The heavier you are, the more protein you need the less carbohydrates you will need.

Fats - try not to exceed more than 25 percent fat in your daily diet. 30 is fine, too. That does not mean you can't have a junk food fast food hamburger... it just means that if you do eat that 55 percent fat burger that you are going to have to cut down on other fat filled foods for the rest of the day to balance it out.

4. Fiber - work up to getting 25 grams of Fiber per day

5. Protein - averages about 20 percent. Divide weight by 2.2 and multiply that by .8 to get the kilograms. For men it is averages as one gram per each kilogram of weight. So, a man would divide their weight in pounds 2.2 then multiply that by .10

6. Make exchanges gradually. Suppose you drink whole milk...work down to 2 percent. Maybe replacing two of your cups per day until you can completely change over. If you are on two percent milk, work down to 1 percent.

7. Add bran to your cereals for extra fiber. Do add it in your baking. You need to balance your diet with vegetables and fruits, too. Try adding different colors to your plate. Maybe an orange yam, and some green beans, to add color. The more variety of food colors, bring more variety of vitamins. Eat more raw foods.

Remember, exchange things, add things, and do it gradually and remember, live all things in life in moderation and soon you will be bouncy and vibrant and well on your way to living BEAUTIFULLY!

Tips For Removing Facial Hair

2007-09-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

You will be following various hair removal methods to remove unwanted hair present on your body such as hands, legs, stomach, feet etc.

Facial hair is the hair which will be grown on your face. This will give rough look for your face.

The growth of facial hair may not be a big problem for men. But, it is a problem for women.

Women have to maintain each and every thing tidy in order get the beautiful look.

Facial hair is the problem which will occur due to imbalance in hormones.

The two main hormones present in women are estrogens and androgens, in which estrogens are female hormones and androgens are male hormones.

As your age increases, the levels of this both hormones will decline. The ratio of these hormones should be same otherwise they can lead to some problems.

Facial hair is the problem that was obtained by the increase of androgens in women. The facial hair on women will be mostly seen above the lips, on the chin, on the jaws, neck and cheeks. The growth of hair at these places will not give a good look.

The various methods by which you can remove facial hair are:

* Shaving
* plucking
* Usage of hair removal cream
* Facial wax
* Electrolysis
* Laser treatment
* Usage of medications

The processes of removing facial hair by the above methods are as follows:

Shaving is the method in which you have to perform a clear shave on the hair growth areas on your face. In this method, you should use the shaving devices and creams which are specially made for women.

This is the temporary method for removing your hair. You should do shaving for every two days because the hair growth will be more on your skin because of this process.

This is not the good process of removing your hair because discoloration and skin itching can occur due to this process.

Plucking is the risky process in which you have to pluck your hair with a special instrument called plucker. This is also a temporary process which makes your skin red and itchy.

Using hair removal cream is a process in which you have to apply temporary hair removal creams for removing your facial hair. This is also not a safe process as there will be lot of chemicals present in the cream which make your skin red.

Facial wax is a painful process. In this process, you have to remove your facial hair by using hot or cold wax. This process definitely makes your skin to change into red color for some time. This is also the temporary process.

Electrolysis Hair Removal is the permanent hair removal treatment. This is the best process for removing facial hair. But, this is expensive and time taking process. It requires 3 to 4 sittings to remove your facial hair.

Laser treatment is also the permanent hair removal treatment. It is also an expensive treatment. But, the time taken by this treatment will be less than the electrolysis hair removal treatment.

You can also follow threading hair removal to remove facial hair. It is a simple method and there are not any chemical reactions. You can use certain medicines to avoid hair growth on your body. This is not the good process of removing your hair. This process can cause side effects.

These are the different methods that will be helpful to you in removing your facial hair. You can select one method which is suitable for you.

Ayurvedic Remedies For Hair Care

2007-09-24T14:15:00.000-07:00

Ayurvedic Remedies for Dandruff:

• Mix up a spoon of camphor to half a cup of coconut oil. Instead of coconut you can use neem oil otherwise. Keep this mixture in a air tight container, preferably a glass container and use this oil to massage your scalp before going to bed. Practice this continuously for at least 15 days and feel the difference of your healthy scalp. After 15 days do it for alternate days for the best of result.

• Add a spoon of castor oil, mustard oil and little coconut (or neem) oil and massage your scalp every night and have a shampoo the day next.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Hair loss:

• Massage the scalp gently with coconut or almond oil daily for 10 to 15 minutes.

• Boil neem leaves in water. Cool, strain and rinse hair with it.

• Increase green leafy vegetables, salads, milk, fruits and sprouts in the diet. Take more proteins, milk, buttermilk, yeast, wheat germ, Soya beans, whole grains and nuts.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Premature graying of Hair:

• Apply a paste made from 2-Tsp. henna powder, 1-tsp. curd, 1-tsp. fenugreek seed powder, 1 tbsp. coffee, 2-tbsp. mint juice and 2-tbsp. basil juice. Apply this paste to the hair for two hours. For a darker color, leave this paste in for 3 to 4 hours. Wash hair with any natural shampoo.

• Grate some fresh ginger. Mix with honey and place it in a jar. Eat 1-teaspoon everyday.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Itchy scalp:

• Rub the scalp vigorously after washing the hair. It increases the blood circulation, and activates the sebaceous glands.

• A mixture of lettuce and spinach juice is good to drink to induce hair growth. The juice of alfalfa mixed with that of carrot, and lettuce juice is also good to take.

• Daily application of coconut oil mixed with lime- juice on the hair is also beneficial. Applying juice of green coriander leaves on the head is also good.

• Washing the hair with a paste of cooked Uraddal (black beans) and fenugreek (methi) 2-3 times a week.

• A paste of licorice made by grinding it in milk can be applied in the bald patches. It induces hair growth. A paste of seeds of lemon and black pepper may also be applied on the bald patches.

• Use Amla (embilica officinalis), Shikakai (Acacia concinna) for washing the hair.

• Enhance oiling and massaging of scalp.

• Use coconut oil or mustard oil at least three times in a week.

• Use medicated oils on the scalp and massage gently in the roots of the hair.

• The diet should contain more green leafy vegetables, salads, milk, fruits and sprouts. Take more proteins, milk, buttermilk, yeast, wheat germ, soybean and vitamin A.

Fit 'n' Fine - Men's Fitness Tips

2007-09-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

FIT 'n' FINE:

workouts sustain muscle tone and endurance, and keep the body operating effectively:

Muscular fitness has two components: Muscular strength and muscular endurance. Although muscular endurance and strength are separate fitness components, they are closely related. Progressively working against resistance will produce gains in both of these components. Even for optimal activities like sitting, running, carrying objects or doing household work, one needs strength. It helps maintain muscle tissue in the body and a higher resting metabolism and therefore regular exercise should be an integral part of everyone's life.

You can get an idea of your muscle strength levels by checking the number of sit-ups and push-ups you can do in a minute. For improving your muscular strength, the muscles have to be taxed beyond the regular accustomed loads. You can achieve it either by working out at a gym or even at home.

Exercises like step-ups and high jumps, push-ups, sit-ups, leg curl, arm curl and leg raises can easily be done at home. The factors one must keep in mind are the mode and resistance that is used to exert on the muscles and the frequency of training. You can do a total body workout or follow a split body workout routine where you can workout the upper body muscles one day and lower body muscles on the next day. It is necessary to rest the muscles for 24 hours to allow adequate recovery.

To achieve significant gains, a minimum of eight weeks of uninterrupted training is required. Once an ideal level of strength is achieved , two training sessions per week are sufficient to maintain the strength levels.

Easy Hairstyle Tips For Busy Women

2007-09-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

Somehow the words crowning glory is synonymous with actress Dimple Kapadia in a TV commercial years ago. Most women complain of bad hair days.. 365 days of the year. Also, there's always something to do.. a train to catch.. deadlines to meet at work.. a party to attend.

So, here are some tips on how to have envious tress without stressing too much over it.

For the office:

If you have curly or wavy hair, you should wet the front section of the hair a bit. Then apply a styling cream like Schwarzkopf 's Loopy and blow dry. You are ready to go.

For women with straight hair, it's best to keep the hair tied up in a pony tail. You can use Schwarzkopf 's Buff, again a styling cream, to flatten the hair. This also tones down fly away hair. The Buff takes care of frizzy hair. It looks neat, tidy and good at work.

Matching the hair with attire:

For formal attire, it's best to keep the hair tied up in a bun or ponytail. If you roll your hair into a bun, use Schwarzkopf 's Buff. Here's how to do it: take a little bit of the serum and run it through the hair before tying it. Then spray Schwarzkopf 's Freeze on the bun to hold the hair in place.

Alternatively, you can also straighten the hair.. especially the front section with flat iron tongs and leave the hair either open or tie it in a loose pony tail.

On weekends, for those with curly or wavy hair, leave your hair open and let the natural curls show.

All you have to do is a quick blow dry and then scrunch it with a lit tle gel. You can also straighten the front triangular section of the hair line and back comb it. Use Schwarzkopf 's Freeze and pin that part of your hair leaving the rest open.

You can also sport fancy bands and pins.. this changes the look completely.

For a party:
It doesn't matter what attire one is wearing for a party, hairstyle depends a lot of the haircut and the texture.

A good haircut solves half of the problem. If a woman has straight hair, then either tie it in a bun or leave it open by blow drying the front section and combing it inwards.

You can use Schwarzkopf 's Magic on the entire hair to give it the much required shine and bounce. This helps the hair come alive. Those with straight hair can use iron curls on the front section of the hair. Roll it inwards to get a chic look. Those with curly hair can scrunch the hair using Schwarzkopf 's Loopy and leave the natural curls as they are.

For a wedding:

Since this calls for heavy dressing up, one does not necessarily have to use decorative accessories on the hair.

You can easily bunch the hair, twist it upwards and clip it leaving a little hair hanging loose. For those with straight hair, you can use tong irons to curl up the ends of the front section.

At home:

Maintain your look at home by simply rolling up the hair in a clip or use a fancy colourful cloth band.

Give Your Face A Good Workout ! (Facial Exercises For Wrinkles)

2007-09-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

FORGET EXPENSIVE CREAMS...GET RID OF WRINKLES WITH THESE SIX FACIAL EXERCISES:

We spend so much time exercising our bodies, it's easy to forget about the one part that everyone looks at mos-our face. It's packed with muscles, and you can use these six simple exercises to firm them up. It takes only 10-15 minutes a day to smooth those wrinkles using these techniques.

YOUTHFUL GLOW:

* With index fingers and thumbs, massage your face in small rotations.
* Massage up towards the top rim again for about a minute. This action stimulates the flow of blood to the face.
* Finally, using small, quick, circular movements, begin to massage all the crevices and the spiral of the ears.
* Use the pads of your index fingers.

LOWER-EYELID LIFT:

* Place pads of middle fingers at outer corners of each eye.
* Slowly raise lower eyelids as though squinting into the sun. Do this in four to six upward movements.
* With lower lids still raised, close your eyes and squeeze tightly upwards, or almost close the lids.
* Hold for a count of 10. Now slowly release, open eyes, relax and breathe.
* Repeat once more.
* Make sure your eyes always look straight ahead.

SMOOTH FOREHEAD LINES:

* Place all your fingers just above your raised eyebrows.
* Close your eyes and feel a strong pull downward with your brow, eyes and nose.
* At the same time push up slowly with your fingers on the forehead from eyebrows to hair line-and hold for five minutes. Repeat once.
* This is like ironing out your wrinkles.

TURKEY NECK ELIMINATOR:

* Raise your chin while slowly drawing up the centre of your lower lip over your top lip.
* Place your tongue tip at the base of your gums. Hold for ten minutes, relax, repeat once again.

LOWER-FACE LIFT:

* Place lower lip over top lip. Stretch chin up, and smile.
* Lift chin slightly. Hold for six to 10 counts. Release slowly and repeat once more.
* This will help to get rid of jowls.

BASIC UPPER-CHEEK LIFT:

* Place three fingers on each side of the face, in the hollow of your cheeks just below the cheekbones.
* The back teeth should be lightly touching the top lip slightly raised.
* Slowly lift the upper cheek muscles in six movements.
* Hold for a count of six, making small pulsing movements.
* Return slowly in six movements repeat.
* Keep your eyes relaxed.

HOW TO DO IT?

* There is no cream that can lift a muscle -you have to exercise it. Facial muscles can be trained to become firm and strong.
* Work your face muscles for at least 10 minutes a day, four days a week. When you have built the muscles, two days is sufficient.
* Do the exercises at any time as long as you are not tired.
* Learn a few exercises, and then play music that follows your rhythm.
* Use a mirror to check what you are doing.
* Muscles should feel stronger in the first fortnight. Subsequently you will notice changes.
* Results depend on age-some see improvements in two months, for others it may take four months.
* Like all exercise, you need to work at it.

Pedicure For Beautiful Legs

2007-09-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

Pedicure : It not only makes the legs beautiful but removes the exertion always.

FIRST METHOD:-

* Take hot water in a tub. Put one big spoon baking soda & one small spoon bath oil in it. Bath oil increases the moisturising capacity of water. Dip your legs for 20 minutes in this water, so that hard skin & corns become soft. Take your legs out of water after 20 minutes & throw the water away.

* Now take the water again, put the C- salt tablets in it & dip your legs again. C- salt tablets is available easily like other beauty products. It makes the dead skin of legs soft, which can be removed easily later on. By dipping the legs in water, you will feel relaxed also. After some time take your legs out of the water, & wipe them with towel.

* Now take out the dead skin with the help of skin filer. Mostly the dead skin is on the heel & on the spherical bone. Pumic stone can also be used to remove the dead skin.

* Now apply moisturiser in legs & massage them properly. After so much cleansing, legs will soke the moisturising lotion easily & the skin of that area will not become hard easily. This moistness will make the skin of legs soft & smooth.

* Now the turn is to clean the nails. Clean the nails from inside & outside with the help of clipper.

* Now file & shape the nails carefully.

* Before applying polish on the nails, slowly push the cuticles with the help of cuticle stick. So the nail look beautiful & nail paint is applied easily.

* First of all apply the base coat polish so that the nails look healthy & safe. (Most of the base coat polish contains vitamin & silk). Now apply the nail paint which matches to your skin color. Apply two coats. Due to this nail color will not be removed for many days.

SECOND METHOD:-

NEEDED:- Bucket, warm water, hydrogen peroxide, shampoo, dettol, filer, nail cutter, nail paint remover, cream, orange stick, cuticle pusher, nail brush, scrubber, towel, cream or oil, nail paint.

PACK-Mix yellow ochre, rose water & sandal powder.

How to do it?

(a) Take lukewarm water in a bucket. Add 2-3 drops of hydrogen peroxide, shampoo, 2-3 drops of dettol.

(b) Make a lather.

(c) File & cut your nails. Cut nails straight & not in curve.

(d) Put cream on the nails & soak feet in the bucket.

(e) After 10 minutes take one feet out.

(f) With the help of orange stick from the pointed side clean the nails and from the flat side push the cuticles till half the moon is seen. Put a drop of shampoo on the brush & rub nails

(g) Remove the cuticles & soak feet for another 5 minutes.

(h) Do the same for another 5 minutes.

(i) Scrub the sole & top of the first feet, corners & sides too.

(j) Soak again & brush & dry both the feet with towel. Massage the feet with cream or oil.

(k) Apply the pack only on top of the feet not down for 10-15 minutes. Let it dry and wash off.

(l) Apply the base coat. It protects the nails from nail polish. Now apply the nail paint. 2 Coats of nail paint & one coat again.

(m) To be done once a week.

Simple Ayurvedic Tips For Beauty...

2007-09-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

The ancient science of Ayurveda is an ancient philosophy based on Eastern ideas about the body and the mind. Ayurveda teaches that each individual has the power to heal themselves, and that diet should be based upon each person’s unique constitution. The constitutional types in Ayurveda are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each person can favor one type, or have attributes of different constitutions that affect the way their body functions. Many of the Ayurvedic tips and practices meant to benefit the skin and aid beauty can be utilized by people of any body type. Follow these tips to experience the natural remedies offered through Ayurvedic tradition.

1. Use Turmeric and Sandalwood to Control Acne:

A paste made out of turmeric and sandalwood powder can be used externally to fight acne. Make the paste by combining one teaspoon of each ingredient with enough water to make a spreadable paste. Leave the paste on for 15 minutes and rinse with warm water every night.

2. Avoid too much Salt and Naturally Salty Food:

Salt causes the body to retain water which can lead to skin inflammation, rashes and pimples. Keep these foods to a minimum, or cut them out of your diet altogether to help your skin avoid the affects of water retention.

3. Purify the Blood to Battle Acne:

A persistent rash can be a symptom of toxins in the blood. To purify the blood, take a mild herbal laxative followed by a cup of burdock tea. Make the tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of burdock root powder with 1 cup of hot water. Drink the tea nightly until symptoms dissipate.

4. Make a Pulp out of Cilantro to Fight Against Rashes:

Take fresh cilantro and chop it until you make a pulp. Apply the pulp externally on the affected areas of the skin to help relieve the symptoms.

5. Bring out Boils with Onions:

Boils are infected regions inside of the skin that fill with fluid and can be very painful and are often times hard and red in appearance. To treat a boil, cook onions and apply them directly to the boil as a poultice. Once the boil has fully developed and has become soft, it will be ready to be drained so that it can fully heal and the pain can be relieved.

6. Drink Coriander Tea to Aid in Treatment of a Rash:

Treat a rash internally as well as externally to get the benefits of both kinds of Ayurvedic therapy. Ayurvedic medicine recommends drinking one glass of coriander tea every night until the itching and redness of the rash are gone. Make the tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds with 1 cup of hot water.

7. Employ Aloe Vera Juice to Help with Acne:

Drinking aloe vera juice may be beneficial for problem skin. Try drinking ½ cup of the pungent flavored juice twice daily until the skin is clear.

8. Treat Sunburn with Coconut oil:

Coconut oil is helpful oil for the skin, and can be used topically to help heal the skin after any kind of a burn. Coconut oil helps re-hydrate the skin.

Lip Care For Having Attractive Lips...

2007-09-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

Many of us neglect our lips without giving it a proper attention and a well planned lip care.

Because of this at times we need to face some problems which really become a matter of concern.

Beautiful lips are undoubtedly a point of attraction.

Lip care makes it possible for you to achieve those fabulous and healthy attractive lips in a most simple way!

Lip Care is Very Easy!

* Moisturize! Yes, like your skin your lips too need moisturizing. During winter they become a real problematic if left unattended or neglected. So this winter or for that matter whenever you feel your lips are dried up you can use this lip care tip to overcome the problem. All you need to do is give your lips a good lip balm protection. Lip blam also gives protection to your chapped lips.

* Never bite the skin on your lips. I know you do this very often but in this process you not only hurt your self but also damage your lips. It is hard to give but yet possible. Give it a try! Stop licking your lips this makes your lips to get dried up very easily.

* Sunscreen Lip Balms for Soft Lips! Use lip balms which have sunscreen factor in winter or summer. For that matter any season this should be made a habit as this gives a good protection for your lips. Go for natural lip balms, they have proved to give better results.

* Now for the lip make up tip from our lip care regime. If you want your lip stick to stay longer then apply your lips with a transparent powder. To avoid your lips from damage from lip stick caused apply a thin layer of Vaseline before you start applying lipstick, this will help your lips keep moist and avoid from dryness thus preventing cracking.

* Brush Your Lips! Surprised yes you can do this like you brush your teeth to remove flakes but very gently. Very useful lip care tip for dry lips.

* Test for Right Amount! In order to test whether you have not overdone or applied more lipstick you can simply put your forefinger in your mouth and close your mouth slowly pull out your finger, lipstick on the finger is the excess one which has come out. Good Lip Care Tip isn’t it?

* Now for the perfect lip line! Keep in mind that you can well define your lips giving them a proper shape by using a lip liner. To get that perfect lip line out of your lip liner don’t forget to put it in glass of water for about few minutes then use it to apply. This process will make the lip liner firm and thus easy to apply.

So you are with perfect lip care tips for those peppy, soft and sizzling lips!

Conditioner For Dry & Damaged Hair

2007-09-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

CONDITIONER FOR HAIR:

Avocado and Mayonnaise Mask is a very good conditioner. This Deep Conditioner works wonders on Dry and Damaged Hair.

Ingredients:

1 Mashed Avocado 1/2 Cup
Mayonnaise(Plain Mayonnaise)

Method:

Take 1 mashed Avocado and mix it with Mayonnaise. Apply to hair evenly,put on a shower cap and leave for about half an hour. Rinse off.This Hair Mask helps you get Soft and Shiny Hair.

Ten Wonderful Uses Of Aloe Vera...

2007-09-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

Aloe Vera is definitely the wonder woman of the flora world. This innocuous looking plant has a myriad of uses and can be used to treat everything from sunburn to indigestion.

It’s one of the oldest know medicinal plants and has long been held in esteem for its positive properties, in fact Cleopatra was quite a fan, using its soothing juice as a daily body lotion.

We’ve pulled together what we consider its top ten uses, but I’m sure you’ll find many more if you go hunting. Make sure you have some on hand to deal with all your aches, pains and skin issues this summer…

1.Acne: Beauty products containing Aloe Vera can help reduce the severity of acne.

2.Freshness: Aloe Vera can keep you feeling fresh, which is why it’s used in new Carefree Aloe Panty Liners. The Aloe works to protect the delicate skin in that “area”, ensuring a clean, fresh feeling.

3.Allergies: Aloe Vera is great for treating the pain and swelling associated with bites and stings. Just break open a leaf and apply it directly to the skin.

4.Burns: Aloe Vera is excellent at relieving the pain of sunburn, rub it on directly from the plant or buy an after-sun formula which contains an extract of the plant.

5.Chapped Lips: When I had dry lips as a child, mum always made me rub Aloe Vera on them… it sure does the trick!

6.Skin Care: Aloe Vera has a softening and moisturising agent, making it great for skin care products. We love Johnson’s Aloe Baby Oil, which is used post-showering to get your skin in super soft shape.

7.Cuts: Rest a fresh leaf directly on the wound as it will help relieve the pain. Apply more fresh Aloe Vera frequently over the first 24 hours.

8.Stomach Problems: Aloe Vera is thought to help with indigestion and heartburn when taken internally. It does have laxative effects though, so imbibe it with care!

9. Sinuses: Aloe Vera can act as a decongestant when used through an inhaler.

10.Health Supplement: Aloe Vera is packed with essential minerals and amino acids to keep your body healthy, so get into the habit of drinking it daily.

Tip To Remove Skin Blemishes & Dead Skin...

2007-09-12T13:57:00.000-07:00

To remove skin blemishes and dead skin:

You will need:

½ teaspoon milk powder
¼ teaspoon egg white
½ teaspoon of lemon juice

Procedure:

Make a creamy paste by mixing ½ teaspoon of milk powder with ¼ teaspoon egg white and ½ teaspoon lemon juice. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and apply on he face and neck liberally. Be careful not to apply this on broken skin or damaged skin. Leave for 20 minutes and wash with lukewarm water, pat dry.

HERBAL WAY OF FOOT CARE...

2007-09-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

In the complete human body feet are the mist strained and worked out part, but inspite of this are the most neglected one also. Lack of proper care for feet result in many problems like corns and bunions, cracks, infections and ingrown nails.

Massaging the feet each night with oil is relaxing and keeps them soft and supple. In winter warm oil can be used with sesame or mustard oil. In summer coconut oil provides a cooling effect.

Corns:

If the shoes are to tight, pinch or do not fit properly corns appear due to the pressure put on the bony areas of the foot and also interfere with the circulation of blood ultimately leading to corns.

Remedies:

* The sap from a marigold stem, milky juice from green figs or papaya juice are all good remedies. Apply to the affected area frequently.

* A slice of lemon can be placed on the corn and bandaged in place overnight. Cracks on heels.

* Walking barefoot on rough surfaces or excessive exposure of bare feet to the sun, wind or water causes cracks on the heels and soles apart form the aggravation of Pitta and Vata doshas, which cause dryness and roughness of the feet.

* Take about three tablespoons of bees wax and mix one teaspoonful sesame oil in it. Warm it a little and apply on the affected areas.

* Use warm sesame oil or ghee on the affected areas.

* Apply a mixture of 1 teaspoon of mango tree sap and 1 tablespoon water to the cracked skin.

BEAUTY AND HEALTH BENEFITS OF CUCUMBER...

2007-09-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

Beauty and health benefits of cucumber:

Some of the many health benefits of cucumbers include their high water content (about 95 percent), their fiber-rich skin and their levels of potassium and manganese, which help regulate blood pressure and help promote nutrient functions, respectively.

* Eating cucumbers is an easy way to increase our water consumption.

* Under the crunchy thin skin, the pale green flesh contains about 95% water.

* One cup of diced cubes supplies about 90ml of pure water.

* Moreover, the dietary fibres regulate cholesterol level and support bowel regularity.

* Potassium promotes flexibility in muscles and regulates blood pressure.

* Together with its natural water, cucumber is the vegetable for sportsmen doing regular intensive exercise.

* The manganese in cucumber promotes functions of nutrients, especially those of thiamine, ascorbic acid and choline to improve their absorption.

* Young people who often feel nauseous and have poor appetite, and those with skin rashes or suffer from loss of hair colour could have manganese deficiency.

* Including cucumber juice in their diet is a healthful tip.

* Sulphite is a preservative commonly added to dried foods, dehydrated fruits and vegetables, pickles and wine.

* Some salad bars may use it to maintain freshness of their salads.

* These foods may contain the preservatives nitrate and nitrite, which can lead to the formation of carcinogenic N-nitroso compound residues.

* The combination of ascorbic acid and caffeic acid contributes to cucumber's cool and soothing properties.

* Its magnesium content relaxes nerves and muscles and keeps blood circulating smoothly.

* The thin cucumber skin is rich in fibre and contains a variety of beneficial minerals especially silica, potassium and magnesium.

HOMEMADE REMEDIES FOR DANDRUFF...

2007-09-11T13:52:00.000-07:00

Dandruff, also called scurf, is the common skin problem that people face daily. It is normal for skin cells to die and flake off, it is nothing but flakes, but when the flaking starts to become intensive there might be a problem that should be solved. There are two types of dandruffs: dry dandruffs, which make the skin itchy, and the oily dandruffs which makes the hair sticky and sometimes smells. The cause for dandruff can be dry weather, hair chemicals, nutrition and more. Most cases of dandruff can be treated with specialized shampoos or common household remedies.

Home Remedies for Peeling Scalp / Dandruff:

How to Cure Peeling Scalp/ Dandruff with Natural Treatments:

* Smear honey on the peeling area, massage gently, and leave for 45 minuets then wash. Repeat every day for 2 weeks or until dandruff is gone.

* Massage hair with pure coconut oil daily.

* Mix 2 tablespoons of fresh apple juice to 2 tablespoons of warm water, apply on hair, rub, leave for 10 minutes and wash off. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

* Rub olive oil into scalp, leave for 5-10 hours and wash off.

* Crush 1 aspirin and put it in a regular shampoo bottle, mix well and wash hair.

* Pour apple cider vinegar on hair and massage well, leave for a few minutes until it's dry and then wash. Repeat until peeling is gone.

* Cut an onion into big slices, Tie on the feet with a big cloth for half an hour.

* Yemeni med: Saturate 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds (Hilba) in a glass of water, use to wash the hair. Then apply some olive oil on the hair. Repeat a few times.

YOGA FOR BEAUTY !

2007-09-11T13:51:00.000-07:00

There is hardly anything on this earth which is not touched by Yoga. Yoga not only increases the physical strength but also the grace and beauty of the face. Yogic practices bring beauty of figure, graceful carriage; melodious voice, glowing face and charming smile. If practiced regularly, Yoga asanas help men and women to acquire a figure that enhances their beauty and gives them flexibility. Beauty coupled with flexibility gives them charm and elegance in every body movement. Individuals practicing Yoga are endowed with a peculiar glow on their faces. Yoga creates a certain aura around that individual, which attracts other people towards them. Many film stars, industrialists and other famous personalities have taken to Yogic practices over time to make themselves fit and beautiful according to the demands of their profession. To look beautiful one has to remain free of all worries and tensions. Yoga helps an individual to attain these attributes.

WHAT IS YOGA?

Yoga focuses on harmony between mind and body. Yoga derives its philosophy from Indian metaphysical beliefs. The word yoga comes from Sanskrit language and means union or merger. The ultimate aim of this philosophy is to strike a balance between mind and body and attain self-enlightenment. To achieve this, yoga uses movement, breath, posture, relaxation and meditation in order to establish a healthy, lively and balanced approach to life.

Though the exact origins of Yoga are unknown but Yoga is considered to be the oldest physical discipline in existence. Yoga, thus symbolizes balance in every area of life. In the earlier times, the rationale of the Yoga postures and breathing exercises was to bring stability and relaxation so practitioners could prepare for the rigors of meditation, sitting still and alert for long periods of time. In modern context also Yoga can play an important role in maintaining a fine balance between work and healthy mind.

USEFUL TIPS FOR BEAUTIFUL EYE LASHES...

2007-09-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

If your lashes are thin, regular application of an equal proportion of glycerine and castor oil, makes them grow thicker. use a mascara brush or ear-bud to apply the same very carefully so that the mixture does not enter into the eyes.

Useful Tips for Beautiful Eye Lashes:

* If you suffer from dandruff make sure that you eliminate it as soon as possible, as dandruff falling on the lashes could be very bad.

* Avoid using coloured mascara as it is too heavy for the lashes and makes them stiff.

* If you suffer from premature greying, use eyelash tints to colour the lashes and not a hair-dye as it could be harmful.

* Pulling of the lashes is bad as it weakens the roots. Remove mascara very carefully using baby oil and earbud.

* If you use contact lenses, use marcara first and then the lenses.

Eye Make up Tips:

1. In order to widen eyes set too close together, shade a dark triangleacross the outer comers of the upper eyelid.

2. To minimise the space between the eyes if they are wide-set, blendeye-shadowacrossthe innerhalvesof upperlid and up towards the brow-bone. Slant shadow on outer comers of lower lid.

HAIR STYLING TIPS FOR THINNING HAIR...

2007-09-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

Thinning hair can be very discouraging. Whether you are a woman going through menopause, or a young man experiencing loss of hair, these tips may be helpful. So, if you have noticed that your hair is not as thick as it once was, or if you suddenly notice more scalp showing, take a look here.

Try using a thickening shampoo. You may want to look for a product that contains dimethicone which is known for building hair volume. It might be wise to use conditioning products prior to using the thickening shampoo. This way you can still benefit from the conditioning without weighing the hair down as many conditioning products tend to weigh hair down. When blow-drying hair, use it on a low setting as this will also build volume. There are some really nice ionizing blow-dryers on the market that have tourmaline inside that helps the hair look its healthiest and shiniest. It has been my personal experience that this type of blow-dryer adds some nice volume without making hair look damaged. Avoid using mousses and hair gels as these products can weigh hair down. Try using a good root lifter with plant extracts and maybe try a volumizing product that contains panthenol.

Using a round brush when blow-drying will help to add volume. Dry hair in sections and lift hair at the roots while concentrating heat to that area. Finish with a blast of cold air to set the style. Try adding a few layers to your hairstyle. Ask your hairstylist about cutting some shorter layers on top to allow the top of your hair to lift easier. Hair will look fuller this way. Possibly add some highlights in areas away from the thinning area to draw attention away from the thin spots. Do not part hair in the middle as this will just draw attention to this area if you have noticed your part getting wider. Instead allow hair to part naturally and not stick straight.

Hope these ideas were helpful to you...

HOW TO MAKE YOUR NAILS STRONG ?

2007-09-08T13:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes fragile nails need more drastic treatment than saline baths. In this case you should use the salutary qualities of herbs. Let’s make vitamin addition for your nails.

Mix the equal amount of grinded herb: Hypericum perforatum L., thyme, camomile and burdock-root. Spill 1 glass of boiling water 2 table-spoons of herbal mixture and stay closed. Put your fingers into warm infusion for some minutes.

After herbal bath rub the mixture of vitamins A and E into nails. To make this mixture you should crush some capsules of these vitamins in the small bowl and mix. Try to rub the vitamins in every nail at least for 30 seconds.

Do remember to take calcium every morning and in combination with vitamin procedure, described above, your nails will become hard and beautiful.