Thursday, September 23, 2010

Beauty - How To Get Clear Skin

How To Get Clear Skin


*We all strive to achieve the beautiful clear skin that has been portrayed as the epitome of natural beauty. Clear skin is achievable, with understanding and care; you also can be the one who has gorgeous, clear skin.

*Water
There are too many people who underestimate the importance of water in our daily diet, one needs to drink 2L or 8 cups of water per day to make sure that all toxins are flushed out of the body and to make sure that we are energised throughout the day. Water is replaced every 6 weeks in our body not to mention it is being excreted daily through our systems, so we must drink enough to replenish it.

*Toner
After cleansing your face, using a toner will remove any leftover residue and tighten your pores. It will also make sure that your moisturiser sinks in better. Look for vitamin E toners, 'Boots' does a great one which will protect the skin and also heal it.

*Moisturiser
This is vital to use a moisturiser day and night. For the morning, use a moisturiser with at least SPF 15 so it will protect you from the sun's rays so you'll be able to look younger for much, much longer and try and prevent skin cancer. For the night use an extra moisturising and healing cream for your beauty sleep.

*Exercise
By exercising daily you remove toxins from your body, which will lead to less spots and you'll also be releasing chemicals in your body which make you happier, this will mean that you will be less stressed which in turn will lead to clearer skin and a healthy and toned body. Exercise daily for 15-20 minutes, you can wake up earlier and start you day with an invigorating

*Dry Body Brushing
Not many people are aware of the effects that dry body brushing has on the skin, it removes toxins from the body, smoothens skin, stimulates blood circulation and reduces the appearance of cellulite on the body. Start from the heels and in upwards motions towards the heart brush your entire body. Then start from the hands towards the heart. Try this everyday for 5 minutes and even within the first use you'll see how clear your skin looks. =)

Beauty - Natural Sunburn Treatments That Are Effective

Natural Sunburn Treatments That Are Effective

*There are many natural sunburn treatments that really work. If you have ever had sunburn before you know that all you want is a natural treatment that really works. This article will provide you with several natural sunburn treatments that really work.

*Yogurt
This healthy snack is also an excellent way to ease sunburn and start the healing process. Remember to use yogurt that has active cultures in it. Then spread the yogurt onto the sunburn and allow it to sit for at least 20 minutes. Rinse the yogurt off of your skin with cool water. Reapply if pain persists.
Tea is a great natural sunburn treatment that works really well. Chamomile tea works best for this treatment, but any tea will work. The next step is to steep 4 tea bags in about 2 cups of water for 20 minutes. Remove tea bags and make compresses with the tea. Lay the compress on the sunburn and allow it to absorb into the skin. You can also put the tea in a spray bottle and apply generously to your skin.

*Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is wonderful oil with excellent healing properties. Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to any of these natural sunburn treatments will ease your pain and increase the speed of your healing.

*Apple Cider Vinegar
You may think apple cider vinegar would be a painful method of treating n=sunburn, but this natural treatment really works. Simply mix 1 part vinegar to 1 part water and spray your skin with the mix. You can also use compresses of the vinegar water if you like. The vinegar will fix the ph level of your skin and cause the healing process to speed up.

*Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a natural treatment for sunburn, but I recommend only using the actual leaves from the plant. Many aloe vera gels, creams, and lotions are not potent enough to actually help heal your sunburn. You must use the actual leaves if you want this natural treatment to really work. For this natural treatment, simply cut off a piece of the leaf and slice a line down the middle of one side. Pull the skin of the leaf back and rub the gel on your sunburn. As the aloe dries it will cool and heal your skin.

All of these natural sunburn treatments are good for your skin. They will moisturize, heal, and cool your sunburn naturally.

Beauty - How To Use Face Massage To Enhance Your Beauty

How To Use Face Massage To Enhance Your Beauty

How to use face massage to enhance your beauty?

*Face massages relaxes tense muscles and remove exhaustion and anxieties, and leave you looking refreshed and glowing. They improves complexion which results in a younger looking appearance. Most massages focus on the body, but there are some spas that focus on facial massages. You can always request a facial massage from your masseuse or you can do it yourself as it is quite simple.

Tips: Use the thumb and knuckles of your index finger for any pinching technique.

Step 1
Use this technique to relieve tension in your face. Start by placing both hands over your face. The heel of your hand should be resting on your chin with your finger tips on your forehead. Keep your hand in place for a moment. Next very slowly move your hands out to your ears.

Step 2
This step is used to keep your neck looking young. Slightly lean your head to one side, and use the back of your hand to stroke upward from your collar-bone to your chin. You will be using both hands. Tilt your head to the other side and reach across and repeat stroking method. Repeat on the other side.

Step 3
This is used to prevent the development of double chin. You will be pinching along the jaw line, and it is important to pinch close to the bone to prevent skin from stretching. Start by putting your fingers under your chin and work out to your ears.

Step 4
This is used to strengthen the muscles under your chin. Curl your tongue back into your month. With the back of your hand gently slap underneath your chin with alternate hands.

Step 5
Use this to stop fine lines from developing around the mouth. Tighten your lips over your teeth and form an "O". Form as big an"O" as you can. At the same time with the middle and index finger make tiny circular pressures over your chin and around your mouth. Add sounds like Ah, OH, "Ee" and "Uu" Make a long version of these sounds, and make sure you are using both hands.

Step 6
Use this massage to counteract frown lines. You will be massaging the muscles between your eyebrows. Place your index fingers on the bridge of your nose. You will be using both hands. First make firm upward strokes, then make firm strokes across, finish by stroking diagonally. Next pinch along the line of your eyebrow; start at the center and end at the temples.

Step 7
Always finish with strokes that leave you feeling relaxed. Place your hand on the bridge of your nose and stroke upward to the airline. Follow with the other hand. Keep eyes closed. Relax your eyes by placing the heel of your hands over your eye socket. Do this anytime your eyes feel tired or just need a mini break. You can also repeat step 1.

Facial massage can be incorporated into your grooming schedule. Practice a few steps when you moisturize your face in the mornings. Add a few more at night when you cleanse your face and remove make-up. The goal is to make them a part of your daily rituals.

Beauty - Best Ways To Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage

Best Ways To Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage


*Sun damage can cause many problems, the highest being skin cancer and other symptoms such as age spots and sun burns. While there is emphasis being put on skin cancer, many still do not follow the regime that they should in order to protect themselves from sun damage.

*Sunscreen
When going out in the sun and even everyday one should wear sunscreen, for everyday use a sunscreen of SPF 15 should be worn. For sunny days and at holidays wearing a higher SPF is better. This will protect you from the sun’s rays but will also allow you to get a tan. Always apply sunscreen at least half hour before going out into the sun and make sure to top up regularly especially when swimming. Use products that are natural as some sunscreens contain many chemicals, aloe vera based sunscreen and zinc is a great natural way to protect your skin.


Sunscreens are great for protecting the skin against damage, however antioxidants will up the anti against the sun to make sure it can block out the most sun rays as possible to your skin. Vitamin C creams will protect your skin from the sun’s rays; it can be worn underneath sunscreen as a barrier from the sun.
Going out during specific times of the day will enable you to protect yourself from sun damage, midday is when the sun is at its highest and thus one should minimise going out at that time. When going out one should also wear hats to protect one’s face from the sun. Also clothing that is light and airy which covers up your body from the sun’s damage will stop the sun rays from damaging your skin. Furthermore, shady areas let you leave the heat for a while and relax.

*Sometimes it is inevitable and one will get sun damage, however using the right products after will help minimise the damage and repair your skin. After sun lotions and creams will help your skin repair itself and soothe any burns. Also scrubs are a great way to rejuvenate the skin, however make sure that they do not contain ingredients such as lemon which will make your skin more exposed to the sun’s rays; this also goes for all other products contain ingredients which make the skin prone to sun damage.
Make sure to always keep your skin protected against sun damage all year round, especially in the summer and when in hot holidays.

Beauty - How To Prevent Chapped Lips

How To Prevent Chapped Lips

*Chapped lips can be a major problem in the winter time. They are painful and unsightly and, for those that are prone to them, can increase the chances of getting cold sores. Preventing the problem is not all that difficult and can save a lot of trouble and discomfort.

*Keep Hydrated
The human body is comprised mostly of water. Having said that you may think that there are fluids to spare. However, water is integral to everything from how our brain functions to how our skin looks and feels. When the atmosphere around us becomes drier, the air seeks out moisture for where ever it can. It sucks it out of anything and anybody.


*The air around you isn't the only thing that steals moisture away from the skin. All of your internal organs depend on water to be able to function. With less to go around the body takes from the skin to maintain essential functions such as movement and thought. Even breathing and the beating of your heart are affected.
Increasing fluid intake will rehydrate all of your internal organs, as well as feed your skin. That's why it is more effective than just slapping on some moisturizer or lip gloss. Slapping on an external layer over top of your lips will just temporarily lock in any existing moisture. Without replenishing what has been lost they will not be all that effective.

*Get More Rest
Our lives are extremely hectic. So, it is often difficult to make time for sleep. However, aside from replacing lost moisture, getting enough sleep is the best way to allow skin to recover from a hard day's work. When a person rests their heartbeat slows. Their organs are not working as hard and their skin is permitted to regain a bit of the elasticity it lost through all that talking and expression making. Being awake means stretching the face muscles even when seemingly doing nothing.

*Avoid Alcohol, Caffeine, Salt and Sugar
Caffeinated beverages such as pop, coffee and tea may satisfy a craving and offer digesting assistance but, they do nothing for keeping moisture in the body. Salt and sugar are also huge culprits. Both love to drink up any moisture around them. Just put a drop of water on a pile of salt or sugar and see how quickly it disappears. To make sure that your skin is able to make the most of all those fluids you are drinking stay away from the things that want to steal it for themselves.

*Avoid Vaseline
Petroleum based products have long since been a favorite ingredient of skin moisturizers. The instant relief experienced when using these products is deceiving. In actuality they do more to dry the skin than help repair and keep it strong and healthy looking. In fact, the best ingredients are all natural such as emu oil or beeswax. They lock in moisture without any adverse effects.

*Never Moisturize Dry Skin
Applying moisturizer to dry skin may seem to provide temporary relief but, in actuality the cream will not absorb properly into the skin. The dry layer will act as a block against any helpful effects that it may offer. Always dampen the skin and pat dry before applying any sort of treatment. This will also help ensure that the skin is clean. You definitely don't want to push dirt and germs further into your skin.

*By addressing dryness from inside out, it is much easier to stay ahead of the problem. Cracked lips are just plain painful and can be avoided just by making sure to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest.

Beauty - What Is A Facial?

What Is A Facial?

*These days a facial takes many forms and are designed to target particular problem areas. Of course you can have what I call a "fluffy duck" facial, which in my opinion is great for that time out relaxing moment. There are, however, many more scientifically tried and tested facial treatments available to the public.
A basic facial would entail a soft or strong cleanse, tone, steam, massage, appropriate mask and facial cream with eye gel. So if we take the basic facial and then add on techniques like microdermabrasion, LED and IPL, just to name a few.


*A facial treatment with an LED is perfect for pigmentation, blemishes, fine lines and hydration. LED is a light which uses spectrally very pure red light at 633nm (penetration depth into skin). It stimulates fibroblasts which in turn increases the production of collagen and elastin. It also improves blood flow in the dermal layers helping to prevent facial veins. LED has been used to treat skin problems such as dermatitis and eczema and because it helps with rapid natural tissue repair in the skin, it helps with wound healing and scaring. This treatment is truly a non-invasive approach to skin rejuvenation, which will improve skin tone and texture, smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

*Finally, the IPL. This is not a laser but a more advanced technology known as Intensed Pulsed light, which uses a broad spectrum light. By using selected filters, this intensed pulsed light is absorbed by either pigment, vascular lesions or red spider veins. In turn, the body then recognizes these absorbed pigments or vascular lesions as waste and migrates them out through the lymphatic system. IPL helps to encourage the skin to produce new collagen and new cells, which then rapidly migrate to the skin's surface.

*Now, remember that these are very specialty facials designed to target specific problem areas on the skin and should be researched thoroughly before committing to a treatment. If you combine all three treatments into a program, imagine the results you could achieve, but do check with a specialist if these are appropriate for your condition. Non surgical face lifts are now more affordable and more accessible, how wonderful. =)

Beauty - How To Avoid The Skin Problems Caused By Use Of Out-Of-Date Cosmetics

How To Avoid The Skin Problems Caused By Use Of Out-Of-Date Cosmetics

*There is another good reason to balk at paying big dollars for cosmetics, when cheaper ones gave been proved just as effective. If you don’t use it up right away, you could end up throwing all that money in the bin.
The fact is, cosmetics do not have a long shelf life, from 6-18 months at the most, and that’s assuming they haven’t already spent two or three years in storage in a warehouse or the shop.

*It is far worse if you have opened the product and only rarely use it. Every time you touch an eyeshadow or face cream you don’t use very often, it becomes more contaminated. If you have a bunch of cosmetics and face creams, and you can’t remember the last time you used them, it’s a good bet they are crawling with bacteria you cannot smell or see, but will soon know about when your skin flares up.
So how do you avoid getting a nasty shock from that expensive cosmetic item you only use for special occasions?

*First of all, only buy your cosmetic products new off the shelf. A great special might not be so great if it has been in the shop for years. Never buy second hand cosmetics, or borrow a friend’s eye make up. Anything that has been sitting around opened for some time is suspect, but cosmetics that have been used by other people are even more so.

*Don’t keep cosmetics for special, occasions. Only buy items you intend to use and will keep using until the container is empty.

*Wash your hands, or use a hand sanitizer, before handling make up. Every time you dip your fingers into a pot you are adding more bacteria.

*Keep cosmetics cool and shaded. Don’t leave them in direct sunlight, and keep them in the fridge during hot weather.

*Don’t buy more than you need. Smaller containers can be used up more quickly, and that two for one offer won’t be such a bargain if the second item goes off.

*If you get a skin reaction or puffy eyes, and you don’t know the cause, check the last cosmetics you used. If in doubt – throw it out!

Beauty - Guide To Keeping Good Skin

Guide To Keeping Good Skin


*When it comes to looking good it all starts with our face, because it's what we look at first thing in the mirror every morning, if we have spots, dark circles under our eyes, dry skin or really oily skin it effects our moods. 'if we don't look good we don't feel good'. We all wish we had spot free smooth and a bright complexion which if we knew the right steps to take in getting our skin right we would be alot happier. Right?


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*The best way to achieve lovely skin and it has taken me years to get here is to eat healthier, drink 4-6 pints a day, exercise regularly not overdoing it and get enough sleep.

*I used to be a smoker and since i stopped the circles and dryness under my eyes have disappeared so that may give you a reason to become an ex smoker.

*If you wear makeup and like me don't like to go out without it, instead of using liquid foundation or stick use a mineral foundation it glides on with a brush feels light and stays on all day this foundation will let your skin breath and you will notice your skin will look nicer even without it.

Beauty - How To Get Rid Of Sudden Acne Around The Mouth

How To Get Rid Of Sudden Acne Around The Mouth


*While the emergence of a sudden pimple can put a damper on anyone's day, a breakout near the mouth can be unsightly as well as painful. Humans instinctively glance between the eyes and the mouth during conversation. Thus, a pimple around the mouth can make the poor victim more self conscious than a pimple in another less conspicuous spot; even if they can't pinpoint exactly why. Luckily for most people, the mouth region is not a hot spot for breakouts. The emergence and appearance of breakouts around the mouth can be reduced dramatically a few preventative techniques and some damage control!



*Secondly, analyze your stash of lip gloss and lipstick. Are your breakouts occurring more often when you use a certain product? Sometimes the sudden emergence of breakouts where you have not readily had them before can signal an allergic reaction. Similarly, products like very sticky lip gloss and high matte lipsticks are often pigment and wax heavy. These will clog the pores if they spread onto the skin surrounding the lips. Many women apply lip gloss, lipstick and lip balm religiously. Be wary of this practice if you suffer often from breakouts in the mouth region. It is not uncommon for women and men to have blackheads and clogged pores around their mouth that go unnoticed until they flare up. Natural products such as Burt's Bee's lip balms offer shine and smoothness for the lip gloss addict, but without the added chemicals that can lead to a breakout. There are also tinted balms available in this same line for the makeup maven that needs a bit of color on her lips to feel complete.


*Lastly, one of the least preventable causes of breakouts around the mouth is hormones. The chin is one area of the face that is especially susceptible to hormonal breakouts. Many women will find in general that their skin tends to go a little crazy right before that time of the month. Pay attention to determine.

Beauty - Benefits Of Honey Used As A Cure For Acne

Benefits Of Honey Used As A Cure For Acne



*Sticky, drippy and gets in your hair.  These really seem to be the only downsides of using honey as a treatment for acne.  The benefits of using honey far outweigh these minor inconveniences.  Honey has been used for centuries as a natural aid for wounds and is now gaining popularity in the use of treating acne.
Those who suffer from regular bouts of acne are becoming disillusioned with the drawbacks of using medicines to deal with it, which can be ineffective and expensive. Honey itself is a natural antiseptic which contains hydrogen peroxide yet does not cause dryness when applied to the skin. Simply put, honey kills bacteria, so is naturally effective when used as an acne treatment. It does not work for everyone but those who have benefited from its use give glowing reports.

*The benefits to using honey as a cure for acne are that it is gentle. It does not aggravate the acne by causing the skin to dry, but instead it mosturises  and hydrates the skin. Those who associate itching with acne find that using honey gives almost immediate relief in stopping the skin from itching. The results seen from using a honey face mask are a reduction of the redness associated with acne, and softer and more glowing skin. As the honey works on the skin to clear the acne it also helps to suppress new outbursts. It is beneficial in helping old scars to fade too.

*Not everyone finds it convenient sleeping in a face mask but try it initially. As the acne starts to heal honey can be used for shorter periods as a mask, or applied before showering. If honey works for you as an acne aid you will find it an inexpensive way of dealing with your skin problems, at the same time as benefiting from clearer, glowing skin. Finally remember that honey tastes good too, so try not to eat your mask. =)

Beauty - Best Ways To Get Rid Of Acne

Best Ways To Get Rid Of Acne

*Getting rid of acne will take a while and perseverance. Acne cannot be rid of in a day, so make sure you follow the below steps and be on your way to getting rid of acne.

*Water
Drinking 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day will flush out the toxins in your body, hydrate it and also result in clearer skin. Make sure to carry a water bottle so you can remember to drink water, you’ll see good results in a week.

Reduce the amount of sugar, fats and dairy products you consume if you want to get rid of acne. These three as a combination and alone can be a factor of why your acne has not gone. Instead start eating fruits and vegetables which will help you get rid of your acne.

*Exercise
Start exercise to flush out toxins in your body, it will remove all the dirt in your body and you’ll be left with clearer skin. A 20-30 minute vigorous exercise will help you get rid of acne; you can do a fast paced walk, swim or go to the gym and exercise.

*Hygiene
Always make sure to shower everyday to get rid of sweat, especially after exercising. Keep your hair out of your face as this could be increasing acne on your forehead and make sure your hair is clean and not oily. Replace your pillows every other day to minimise oil transference and bacteria.

*Face/Body Care
Visit your local doctor/general practitioner so they can advise you and prescribe you on the best skin care products to use for your acne such as topical creams, gels and face washes. Most likely, they will prescribe you sacylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in different percentages for your acne. Always make sure to test these products on a small area of skin to make sure you are not allergic to it. Furthermore, look for any signs of scarring or patches of scabby skin, this can be because you are taking a high percentage of the chemical and that you may need to take a smaller percentage.

*You can also look for over the counter prescriptions which contain the above two substances. Face washes and creams which contain tea tree oil are great ways to help get rid of acne on sensitive skin.
An alternative is to use home methods such as facial masks, one that contain clay, tea tree oil and lemon will help get rid of acne. Another one is a paste made of turmeric and sandalwood; it is one of the best methods to get rid of acne.

Beauty - Acne Treatments And Ethnic Skin Types: What You Need To Know

Acne Treatments And Ethnic Skin Types: What You Need To Know

Ethnic skin is prone to all the same skin conditions as all other skin types, and acne is no exception. The causes of acne are usually stress, hormones, medications, and bad cosmetic choices. There are many treatments on the market for acne, but many of these treatments react differently with ethnic skin and also there is a lot of incorrect information about how to treat acne and the causes of acne on ethnic skin. Most of the active ingredients in acne medications (topical) are very drying (the most commonly used topical acne medications are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.) The main mistake that people with ethnic skin make is to use harsh drying products with out using moisturizer. This leads to a harsh cycle because when the skin is extremely dry from the use of harsh products the oil glands begin to work overtime in order to repair the skins protective layer. When the protective layer of natural oils have been stripped away the skin feels tight and itchy, and it looks dull. Also when the protective layer of natural oil is gone the skin loses moisture and is more prone to injury and infection. The best way to care for acne prone ethnic skin is:

*Always apply an acne treatment after you cleanse and give it a few minutes to soak in.

*Always! MOISTUREIZE. Never skip moisturizer unless you are having an extra severe outbreak and begin to moisturize as soon as the outbreak begins to clear up. Moisturizing will help keep the skin comfortable, looking soft and supple, healing well, and moisturizing will help balance the amount of oil the skin produces.
*Always remember to use non-comedogenic moisturizer, never use petroleum products or thing such as cocoa and Shea butter, these things clog pores and make acne worse.

*The last step in any skin care regimen should be applying sunscreen (non-comedogenic.) Many acne products make the skin very sensitive to UV light especially ethnic skin, to avoid discoloration and damage always apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)

Beauty - Best Ways To Unclog Pores

Best Ways To Unclog Pores

*Clogged pores are a very common problem affecting men and women all over the world. But as common as they are they can be notoriously difficult to deal with. They can be very stubborn and hard to remove if you do not know how.

*Squeezing is the most popular way to unclog your pores, but this is dangerous and is the quickest way to damage your skin.

However, there are ways to remove them carefully and safely without the risk of damaging your skin.

*There are many different store bought face masks that can be used to remove trapped dirt from pores. But very often these will contain a great deal of different chemicals which can cause irritation to the face. Making your own face masks can be an excellent way of making sure you know exactly what is in your face mask. It is also an excellent way of saving money as many store bought masks are expensive.

*One of the best masks to help unclog your pores consists of milk and gelatin.

*Add one tablespoon of gelatin to a microwaveable bowl and then add one and a half tablespoons of milk. Stir the mixture together until it is thoroughly blended. Microwave the mixture for approximately ten seconds or until the mixture is warm. It must not be too hot or you will risk damaging your skin.

*Once the mixture is warm then use your fingers to apply it to your face. Please note that you must not leave the mixture for too long as it will dry in the bowl if you do and it will be incredibly hard to remove.

*You can either apply the mask all over your face or just to the areas that need it. The T zone is normally the most popular area. Leave the mixture on your face for approximately half an hour. Gently peel the mixture off.

*You will notice that the dirt and grime from your pores has come with it. Wash your face with warm water to remove any excess mixture.

*Another excellent way to unclog your pores is to steam your face. The steam will open your pores and the dirt will come out by itself.

*Before you do this you must wash your face.

*Fill a large bowl with boiling water and carefully place it onto a mat on a table. Put a towel over your head and put your face a few inches above the bowl. Allow the steam o penetrate your pores. Once the water has turned cold then you must wash your face again.