The latest and most effective collagen elastin skin remedy does not contain collagens or elastins. What it does contain are nutrients that are proven to stimulate the skin's ability to repair itself.
The human body is an amazing machine. It is programmed to replace and repair damaged cells, tissues and fibers. The programming is written into the cells DNA, but over time, the program can become damaged.
Molecules called free radicals are naturally present in the cells of the body. They perform some important functions, but they must be balanced by an equal number of antioxidants or they begin to act strangely.
As simple molecules, they only know how to deal with simple things. When they are confronted with toxins and UV radiation, they don't know how to respond. Their activity must be neutralized by antioxidants or it will damage the cellular membrane, the collagen and elastin fibers and the cells DNA.
When a cell with damaged DNA divides, the new cells have a different program to follow. They can eventually cause wrinkle formation, cancerous growths or death of the cell. So, one of the most important things that a collagen elastin skin remedy can contain is an antioxidant that has been formulated to penetrate through many of the skin's layers.
The most effective solution is called NANOLIPOBELLE HEQ10. It contains both vitamin E and coenzyme Q10, but the nutrients are ground down, so that the molecules are small enough to penetrate. If a lotion contains regular size antioxidants, it will not be effective.
Collagens and elastins are proteins. They are also too large in size to penetrate the skin's layers. If they were to benefit the skin's fibers, they would need to penetrate through 4-5 layers of epidermis, before they would reach the dermis layer, in which the fibers are formed.
The latest collagen elastin skin remedy contains a protein called keratin, in an active form that the skin's cells can use. You see, not only must a manufacturer provide the right ingredients; they must also be in the right form. This is true whether you are speaking of a skincare cream or a dietary supplement. The nutrient formulation must be "bio-available". That is available for use by the cells of the body.
A collagen elastin skin remedy containing bio-available keratin has been shown to heal dermatitis, relieve itching, reduce redness and inflammation, increase the number of cells and collagens present in the skin's layers, while providing necessary moisture and improving firmness. Bio-available keratin has antioxidant activity, as well.
Only a few companies signed up to include the ingredient in their skincare products, before the company that makes it had to stop taking new orders. None of the big brand names climbed on board. One of them decided that they could come up with a synthetic formulation that was just as effective.
Those of us that believe in natural remedies are sure that synthetics are not good for our skin's health or appearance. Luckily, we have a natural collagen elastin skin remedy that improves both.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Natural Under Eye Wrinkle Cream
Do you wake up looking more tired than when you went to bed. Do people tell you that you need to go on a vacation when you just got back from one. That is a sure sign that you are suffering from under eye wrinkles.
It can be annoying being asked repeatedly why you look so tired or if you had enough sleep when you know you were not tired nor lacking in sleep.
So you know you are facing a problem one that is staring everyone in the face and you have find a solution and quite fast.
Cosmetic surgery could be an option to remove under eye wrinkles, but do you want to go thru that painful, expensive procedure and who knows how long recovery will take? Or how effective it will be?
You might be wondering why you have under eye wrinkles. These wrinkles can be caused from different things such as the skin under your eyes being too dry or you are getting up in age or you spend too much time exposed in the sun.
Now you want to find help to get rid of your under eye wrinkles. The first thing you need to do is find a product that contain specially formulated ingredients that will heal the skin under your eyes, diminish the wrinkles and restore the moisture to your skin giving it a more supple, firm look.
I have discovered a contour eye gel which contains some amazingly natural ingredients that will gradually eliminate wrinkles under your eyes.
A key ingredient in this product is Eyeliss. Eyeliss has a dramatic effect in reducing wrinkles under the eye. In a recent clinical study with Eyeliss 65% of volunteers showed a marked reduction in under eye wrinkles.
Eyeliss has been combined with another unique ingredient called Haloxyl which has proven to dramatically reduce wrinkles and dark circles under eye.
While Eyeliss and Haloxyl are extremely effective together, other naturally potent ingredients have also been added in generous amounts which will significantly enhance the anti-aging benefits for your eyes.
It can be annoying being asked repeatedly why you look so tired or if you had enough sleep when you know you were not tired nor lacking in sleep.
So you know you are facing a problem one that is staring everyone in the face and you have find a solution and quite fast.
Cosmetic surgery could be an option to remove under eye wrinkles, but do you want to go thru that painful, expensive procedure and who knows how long recovery will take? Or how effective it will be?
You might be wondering why you have under eye wrinkles. These wrinkles can be caused from different things such as the skin under your eyes being too dry or you are getting up in age or you spend too much time exposed in the sun.
Now you want to find help to get rid of your under eye wrinkles. The first thing you need to do is find a product that contain specially formulated ingredients that will heal the skin under your eyes, diminish the wrinkles and restore the moisture to your skin giving it a more supple, firm look.
I have discovered a contour eye gel which contains some amazingly natural ingredients that will gradually eliminate wrinkles under your eyes.
A key ingredient in this product is Eyeliss. Eyeliss has a dramatic effect in reducing wrinkles under the eye. In a recent clinical study with Eyeliss 65% of volunteers showed a marked reduction in under eye wrinkles.
Eyeliss has been combined with another unique ingredient called Haloxyl which has proven to dramatically reduce wrinkles and dark circles under eye.
While Eyeliss and Haloxyl are extremely effective together, other naturally potent ingredients have also been added in generous amounts which will significantly enhance the anti-aging benefits for your eyes.
Best Anti Aging Skin Care Products - What to Use?
Anti-aging skin care is always evolving and it becomes more and more sophisticated with each year, with new technologies and new products out on the market. With so many products on the market, choosing a good anti-aging skin care system can be difficult. Everyone likes to look like a beauty with youthful and elegant pose and the only way is to use the right products.
Products, which contain ingredients such as tomato in them, are growing increasingly popular with many women. Not only does this particular plant contain properties, which have a cooling and astringent effect on the skin, but it also contains some good anti oxidant properties as well.
Drinking
Drinking plenty of water, at least eight glasses day, is generally considered good for you in keeping your body hydrated and will help maintain moisture for your skin. You should avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they tend to dry out the skin, making the small lines and wrinkles more apparent. Dehydration will create an imbalance of minerals and it will also affect hormone balance.
Vitamins
Vitamin D is essential for healthy skin, mostly absorbed from our exposure to the sun. Shiitake mushrooms are one raw food source, and chlorella contains chlorophyll, which reduces our requirement for D. Vitamin E is one of those necessary nutrients both internally and externally. Vitamin C which produces collagen and Vitamin A are both important to tissue repair. Vitamin E is well known for its healing properties. And combining it with the lesser known COQ10 makes for a powerful, ant aging combination.
Fruits
Fruits are one source of such anti-oxidants. Eating these fruits on a daily basis can help prolong the onset of said wrinkles. Fruits and vegetables contain natural anti-oxidants which helps stop the early formation of the signs of aging. These anti-oxidants, such as Vitamins A, C, and E, help detoxify our skin, thus, eliminating the harmful minerals and elements from our skin.
Moisturizer
Moisturizers help prevent your body from yielding moisture. The more hydrated your body's surface, the fewer lines will be visible. Moisturizers, for example, work by trapping the moisture already in the skin, and sealing it in. They don't bring in new moisture to dehydrated skin, though they help prevent moisture loss.
Sunscreen
Use it whenever you are going into the sun; with today's sunscreen-enhanced anti aging skin care products, there's no reason to ever be without protection. Sunscreen may have to be reapplied during the day if you spend time outside. Sunscreen also helps prevent skin cancer caused by sun exposure as well as wrinkle prevention.
Collagen
Collagen is one such important nutrient that can really affect the condition of your skin. This substance is extremely important to improve the condition of your skin since it aids in producing new cells. Collagen is a kind of structural protein, which is found in skin. Vitamin C based anti aging skin care products are sometimes pretended with the danger of receiving them oxidized.
Avoid
Avoid bar soaps since they typically dry out the skin. Never wash your face with hot or cold water as either method can cause broken capillaries. Avoid fish like shark, because they are at the top of the food chain and have the highest levels of mercury.
Products, which contain ingredients such as tomato in them, are growing increasingly popular with many women. Not only does this particular plant contain properties, which have a cooling and astringent effect on the skin, but it also contains some good anti oxidant properties as well.
Drinking
Drinking plenty of water, at least eight glasses day, is generally considered good for you in keeping your body hydrated and will help maintain moisture for your skin. You should avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they tend to dry out the skin, making the small lines and wrinkles more apparent. Dehydration will create an imbalance of minerals and it will also affect hormone balance.
Vitamins
Vitamin D is essential for healthy skin, mostly absorbed from our exposure to the sun. Shiitake mushrooms are one raw food source, and chlorella contains chlorophyll, which reduces our requirement for D. Vitamin E is one of those necessary nutrients both internally and externally. Vitamin C which produces collagen and Vitamin A are both important to tissue repair. Vitamin E is well known for its healing properties. And combining it with the lesser known COQ10 makes for a powerful, ant aging combination.
Fruits
Fruits are one source of such anti-oxidants. Eating these fruits on a daily basis can help prolong the onset of said wrinkles. Fruits and vegetables contain natural anti-oxidants which helps stop the early formation of the signs of aging. These anti-oxidants, such as Vitamins A, C, and E, help detoxify our skin, thus, eliminating the harmful minerals and elements from our skin.
Moisturizer
Moisturizers help prevent your body from yielding moisture. The more hydrated your body's surface, the fewer lines will be visible. Moisturizers, for example, work by trapping the moisture already in the skin, and sealing it in. They don't bring in new moisture to dehydrated skin, though they help prevent moisture loss.
Sunscreen
Use it whenever you are going into the sun; with today's sunscreen-enhanced anti aging skin care products, there's no reason to ever be without protection. Sunscreen may have to be reapplied during the day if you spend time outside. Sunscreen also helps prevent skin cancer caused by sun exposure as well as wrinkle prevention.
Collagen
Collagen is one such important nutrient that can really affect the condition of your skin. This substance is extremely important to improve the condition of your skin since it aids in producing new cells. Collagen is a kind of structural protein, which is found in skin. Vitamin C based anti aging skin care products are sometimes pretended with the danger of receiving them oxidized.
Avoid
Avoid bar soaps since they typically dry out the skin. Never wash your face with hot or cold water as either method can cause broken capillaries. Avoid fish like shark, because they are at the top of the food chain and have the highest levels of mercury.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Give a manicure in 10 easy steps
It’s always a treat to have a professional manicure, but if you can’t always spend the extra cash, or can’t find time to get to the salon, here are some easy instructions to give yourself nice-looking nails. Just follow these steps and you’ll be a pro in no time!
1. The first thing to is to exfoliate your hands. To do this, use a mixture of salt and hand soap or a commercial exfoliant hand lotion. Wash and dry hands.
2. Next, moisturize using hand cream or even a little olive oil. Let cream or oil sit for a few minutes and then wipe off excess.
3. Soak your fingers in a bowl of warm water to soak and soften the cuticles. Do not soak for too long as they will become too soft. You may also opt for simply using a cuticle softener and skip the soaking process.
4. Next, gently push back the cuticles using a cuticle stick. Do not cut them. If you have hangnails, cut them carefully with nail scissors or cutters.
5. Follow this with a shaping of the nails using a double-sided emery board, and shape them depending on your personal preference. Filing them in an oval shape is generally the most preferred. Make sure you file in one direction to avoid rough edges.
6. Shine the nails with a buffer. Most often these have three different parts--follow the package’s instructions on how to use the different sides and in what order.
7. Next you’ll want to make sure the nails are free of any old polish. Use a polish remover and cotton balls or a q-tip dipped in remover. Be sure to remove all traces of polish.
8. Apply a thin clear base coat. This will help protect the nails and allow for longer polish wear.
9. Once this is completely dry, choose your polish color. Dip the brush into the bottle and pick up only a small amount. Beginning at the bottom of your nail, paint one upward stroke to the top of your nail, gently flattening the brush against your nail to spread the color. Then, do the same stroke on either side of the first stroke, thus completing the nail’s coloring in three strokes. Move on to the next finger and continue until both hands are done. Allow this coat to dry and then apply a second coat if desired.
10. Once the second coat is dry, apply a top coat shine. These are generally quick drying, although you should be careful for the next 30 minutes to avoid easy dents or chipping before all the layers set.
1. The first thing to is to exfoliate your hands. To do this, use a mixture of salt and hand soap or a commercial exfoliant hand lotion. Wash and dry hands.
2. Next, moisturize using hand cream or even a little olive oil. Let cream or oil sit for a few minutes and then wipe off excess.
3. Soak your fingers in a bowl of warm water to soak and soften the cuticles. Do not soak for too long as they will become too soft. You may also opt for simply using a cuticle softener and skip the soaking process.
4. Next, gently push back the cuticles using a cuticle stick. Do not cut them. If you have hangnails, cut them carefully with nail scissors or cutters.
5. Follow this with a shaping of the nails using a double-sided emery board, and shape them depending on your personal preference. Filing them in an oval shape is generally the most preferred. Make sure you file in one direction to avoid rough edges.
6. Shine the nails with a buffer. Most often these have three different parts--follow the package’s instructions on how to use the different sides and in what order.
7. Next you’ll want to make sure the nails are free of any old polish. Use a polish remover and cotton balls or a q-tip dipped in remover. Be sure to remove all traces of polish.
8. Apply a thin clear base coat. This will help protect the nails and allow for longer polish wear.
9. Once this is completely dry, choose your polish color. Dip the brush into the bottle and pick up only a small amount. Beginning at the bottom of your nail, paint one upward stroke to the top of your nail, gently flattening the brush against your nail to spread the color. Then, do the same stroke on either side of the first stroke, thus completing the nail’s coloring in three strokes. Move on to the next finger and continue until both hands are done. Allow this coat to dry and then apply a second coat if desired.
10. Once the second coat is dry, apply a top coat shine. These are generally quick drying, although you should be careful for the next 30 minutes to avoid easy dents or chipping before all the layers set.
How to remove vasoline from hair
Raising children is not an easy task. Each stage presents different joys and different challenges. One of the most laborious stages is when children are toddlers and preschoolers. These are the years of exploration. That means parents have to always be alert and on guard with their children. But parents can’t keep their toddlers on a leash. And sometimes toddlers get into things they should not, such as Vaseline.
Naturally the little tyke will not take a finger full and moisturize their lips. They are more likely to take two fistfuls and introduce it to their hair. They love the slick feeling, and think it is the height of fun. But when their parent discovers their new hobby the first question that comes to mind is: How do I get this Vaseline out of their hair?
To start, one wants to remove as much as possible before washing the hair. Using a wide tooth comb, comb through the hair, rinsing the comb after each comb through. Repeat the process using a medium tooth comb, and repeat again using a fine tooth comb. Next, use a textured hand towel to remove any left over Vaseline. More Vaseline can be removed if the hair is sectioned before using the hand towel. Once you have used one section of the hand towel, rotate to another section or you will just be replacing old Vaseline back into the hair.
The next step is to shampoo the hair. The main active ingredient in shampoo is sulfate. Sulfates are the detergent compound and are responsible for cleaning the hair by cutting dirt and grease. To remove Vaseline one will need a shampoo that is high in detergent content.
The strongest sulfate is ammonium laurel sulfate, followed by sodium laurel sulfate. A variation of these sulfates are ammonium laureth and sodium laureth sulfate. Baby shampoo carries a very mild sulfate, olefin sulfonate. It is for this reason that baby shampoo will not work as effectively. One would need a full ten-ounce bottle to remove Vaseline from the hair.
Once you have the necessary shampoo, wet hair and place a palm size amount of shampoo onto the hair. Lather and then rinse. Repeat but before rinsing, allow the shampoo to sit on the hair for about ten minute. This will cause the shampoo to penetrate past the coat of Vaseline on the hair shaft. After shampooing, it is important to condition the hair. Conditioning will replace any excess moisture loss from the hair due to the shampooing. After conditioning and rinsing again, dry and style as usual.
Life’s little emergency come in all shapes and forms. Having preschoolers and toddlers multiplies the amount of unexpected events in a day. But with a little patience and a lot of ingenuity, all things can be conquered. This includes large amounts of Vaseline in the hair. To avoid Vaseline removal becoming a regular occurrence, place the Vaseline on a high shelf or get a child proof safety lock for you cabinets. If not, buy your shampoo by the dozen because you will definitely need it.
Naturally the little tyke will not take a finger full and moisturize their lips. They are more likely to take two fistfuls and introduce it to their hair. They love the slick feeling, and think it is the height of fun. But when their parent discovers their new hobby the first question that comes to mind is: How do I get this Vaseline out of their hair?
To start, one wants to remove as much as possible before washing the hair. Using a wide tooth comb, comb through the hair, rinsing the comb after each comb through. Repeat the process using a medium tooth comb, and repeat again using a fine tooth comb. Next, use a textured hand towel to remove any left over Vaseline. More Vaseline can be removed if the hair is sectioned before using the hand towel. Once you have used one section of the hand towel, rotate to another section or you will just be replacing old Vaseline back into the hair.
The next step is to shampoo the hair. The main active ingredient in shampoo is sulfate. Sulfates are the detergent compound and are responsible for cleaning the hair by cutting dirt and grease. To remove Vaseline one will need a shampoo that is high in detergent content.
The strongest sulfate is ammonium laurel sulfate, followed by sodium laurel sulfate. A variation of these sulfates are ammonium laureth and sodium laureth sulfate. Baby shampoo carries a very mild sulfate, olefin sulfonate. It is for this reason that baby shampoo will not work as effectively. One would need a full ten-ounce bottle to remove Vaseline from the hair.
Once you have the necessary shampoo, wet hair and place a palm size amount of shampoo onto the hair. Lather and then rinse. Repeat but before rinsing, allow the shampoo to sit on the hair for about ten minute. This will cause the shampoo to penetrate past the coat of Vaseline on the hair shaft. After shampooing, it is important to condition the hair. Conditioning will replace any excess moisture loss from the hair due to the shampooing. After conditioning and rinsing again, dry and style as usual.
Life’s little emergency come in all shapes and forms. Having preschoolers and toddlers multiplies the amount of unexpected events in a day. But with a little patience and a lot of ingenuity, all things can be conquered. This includes large amounts of Vaseline in the hair. To avoid Vaseline removal becoming a regular occurrence, place the Vaseline on a high shelf or get a child proof safety lock for you cabinets. If not, buy your shampoo by the dozen because you will definitely need it.
Eye makeup tips: choosing the best colors for you
As the saying goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Choosing the right eye cosmetics for your eye color will be the door opener to how others first see you. Remember, when someone first greets you, you want them to say, “Your eyes look great,” instead of “Where did you get that eye shadow? It’s pretty.” With the endless variety of eye shadow colors marketed by top cosmetic companies each season, knowing which colors look best on you can be a daunting task.
Here is a no-nonsense guide of eye colors and which ones will make you look your best for any occasion, no matter which the beholder is!
First Things First
No matter what your eye color is, before applying eye shadow, you need to start with applying foundation to your entire eye area, making sure to choose a shade of foundation lighter than your natural skin tone which will give an all-over natural look. Remember to apply foundation under the eye area to cover up any dark circles, puffiness or blemishes. Next, remember to fill in your eyebrows as well, choosing a neutral shade of eyebrow liner or shadow. Good neutral choices for eyebrows include soft red-brown and taupe. Try not to make the common mistake of choosing an eyebrow color darker than your actual eyebrow, since this can give a very unnatural look, causing your skin to look pale. Blend the eyebrow color beginning at the inner part of your eyebrow and extend the line to almost the side of your face. Blend with a small eye brush or your fingers.
If you have Blue Eyes:
The best colors for blue eyes to enhance any blue shade are brown, gray, taupe and rose. Brown shades are the most flattering palette for blue eyes simply because the brown contrasts with the blue eye color, bringing out every shade of blue in the eye. Other good choices for blue eyes include lavender, plum and purple. These colors work well with blue eyes, although they do not enhance the blue eyes like the brown colors will. For a hip look try fuschia, silver and turquoise, to brighten any shade of blue eyes. Tip: Avoid using blue eye shadow on blue eyes; artificial blue color next to the natural blue of the eye will only look more unnatural. When someone notices you for the first time, they will only see the blue eye shadow instead of your eyes!
If you have Green Eyes:
Green eyes can use similar shades that brown and hazel eyes use since flecks of green are found in both hazel and brown eyes. Shades of green can be used on green eyes as long as it is not an electric or bright shade of green, causing an unnatural look against the true color of the green eye. Best bets for green eyes include mocha and lavender. The lavender contrasts with the green, making your eyes more intense and dramatic. The warmer mocha color gives a natural look to compliment green eyes. For a hip look try light green and bright purple to give a finishing, modern look.
If you have Brown Eyes:
Since brown eyes have flecks of green, gold, copper and brown, the most flattering colors will be any colors within these families. People with brown or hazel eyes can wear almost any shade of eye shadow as long as it’s applied and blended correctly! Best bets for brown eyes include gold, green, bronze and copper. Other flattering shades include champagne (a bit of apricot with a soft pink), beige, khaki-green (the lighter shade adds highlight to enhance the green and brown flecks) and brown for a doe-eyed look. Hip favorites include hot pink, tangerine, royal blue and lime green (again, the contrast gives brown eyes a kick).
If you have Hazel Eyes:
As mentioned, hazel eyes can follow the same color choices for brown and green eyes. Best bets for hazel eyes are apricot, brown, pale yellow and dark green. Hip favorites include lime-green and gold to give an ultra modern look, enhancing the tiny brown and green flecks in hazel eyes.
Tried and True Favorites
No matter what color your eyes are, there are certain colors that will always compliment all eye colors. Base colors that look great on just about any eye color are charcoal, navy blue, chocolate and black. Another alternative would be to use these colors as eyeliners to compliment most eye shadows. A hip favorite on any eye color is any variety of a silver-sparkle shadow that will give an all-over modern, edgy look to eyes.
Here is a no-nonsense guide of eye colors and which ones will make you look your best for any occasion, no matter which the beholder is!
First Things First
No matter what your eye color is, before applying eye shadow, you need to start with applying foundation to your entire eye area, making sure to choose a shade of foundation lighter than your natural skin tone which will give an all-over natural look. Remember to apply foundation under the eye area to cover up any dark circles, puffiness or blemishes. Next, remember to fill in your eyebrows as well, choosing a neutral shade of eyebrow liner or shadow. Good neutral choices for eyebrows include soft red-brown and taupe. Try not to make the common mistake of choosing an eyebrow color darker than your actual eyebrow, since this can give a very unnatural look, causing your skin to look pale. Blend the eyebrow color beginning at the inner part of your eyebrow and extend the line to almost the side of your face. Blend with a small eye brush or your fingers.
If you have Blue Eyes:
The best colors for blue eyes to enhance any blue shade are brown, gray, taupe and rose. Brown shades are the most flattering palette for blue eyes simply because the brown contrasts with the blue eye color, bringing out every shade of blue in the eye. Other good choices for blue eyes include lavender, plum and purple. These colors work well with blue eyes, although they do not enhance the blue eyes like the brown colors will. For a hip look try fuschia, silver and turquoise, to brighten any shade of blue eyes. Tip: Avoid using blue eye shadow on blue eyes; artificial blue color next to the natural blue of the eye will only look more unnatural. When someone notices you for the first time, they will only see the blue eye shadow instead of your eyes!
If you have Green Eyes:
Green eyes can use similar shades that brown and hazel eyes use since flecks of green are found in both hazel and brown eyes. Shades of green can be used on green eyes as long as it is not an electric or bright shade of green, causing an unnatural look against the true color of the green eye. Best bets for green eyes include mocha and lavender. The lavender contrasts with the green, making your eyes more intense and dramatic. The warmer mocha color gives a natural look to compliment green eyes. For a hip look try light green and bright purple to give a finishing, modern look.
If you have Brown Eyes:
Since brown eyes have flecks of green, gold, copper and brown, the most flattering colors will be any colors within these families. People with brown or hazel eyes can wear almost any shade of eye shadow as long as it’s applied and blended correctly! Best bets for brown eyes include gold, green, bronze and copper. Other flattering shades include champagne (a bit of apricot with a soft pink), beige, khaki-green (the lighter shade adds highlight to enhance the green and brown flecks) and brown for a doe-eyed look. Hip favorites include hot pink, tangerine, royal blue and lime green (again, the contrast gives brown eyes a kick).
If you have Hazel Eyes:
As mentioned, hazel eyes can follow the same color choices for brown and green eyes. Best bets for hazel eyes are apricot, brown, pale yellow and dark green. Hip favorites include lime-green and gold to give an ultra modern look, enhancing the tiny brown and green flecks in hazel eyes.
Tried and True Favorites
No matter what color your eyes are, there are certain colors that will always compliment all eye colors. Base colors that look great on just about any eye color are charcoal, navy blue, chocolate and black. Another alternative would be to use these colors as eyeliners to compliment most eye shadows. A hip favorite on any eye color is any variety of a silver-sparkle shadow that will give an all-over modern, edgy look to eyes.
Fit eyebrow shape to face shape
Eyebrows are the frame for your face. Thick, wild eyebrows are not a good fame for an attractive picture. That’s why you need to make your brows trim and contoured to fit your face shape. The easiest way to shape your eyebrows is by plucking, so below is a step by step procedure to getting the best shape for your face while staving off any pain from plucking.
First, pick the best tweezers for your needs. A pair of tweezers with a thin tip is good if you have thin, short eyebrows, or ingrown hairs. A square tip is best for thick and long eyebrow hairs. A slanted tip is the best of both worlds. Now, prepare your brows for shaping. Wash your face with warm water to remove any makeup or oils from the hairs and to loosen hair follicles. Then, wipe your brows with astringent.
If your skin is sensitive, apply a little numbing cream to your brows. Anti-itch cream or ambesol works well for this. It is best to pluck before bed so that the swelling has a chance to go down before you go out in public. Also, remember to tweeze the hairs in the direction they grow. This will lessen the pull on your skin and will keep the hair from breaking in half.
Now you can figure out the best shape for your face. Hold a pencil vertically along the side of your nose to measure your brows. Your eyebrow should start at outside edge of the pencil, if not, then it needs to be plucked to that point. If you have close-set eyes leaving a little more space will widen the look of your eyes. Hold the tweezers at a 45-degree angle to make it easier to get at the hairs you want to pull.
Next, hold the pencil to outside of your eye and line it up with the edge of your eyebrow. If the pencil does not line up with the edge of your eye then it needs to be plucked. The highest point of your brow should be a little past the outer corner of your eye’s iris and should taper off to the end of your eye. Take an eyebrow brush or soft toothbrush and brush the hairs of your eyebrow straight up. Trim any wayward hairs that are longer than the others. Then, brush them downward and trim any overly long hairs.
Another important part of eyebrow maintenance is to decide if your brows are too thick for your face. If you have a larger face with a strong jaw you will need thicker brows than if you have a thin, delicate face. Make sure, though, to keep your natural arch and not to thin your brows too much. Take an eyebrow pencil and trace your natural arch. Pluck any hairs that are outside of the arch. The last step is to remove any hairs that are in between your natural brows. No uni-brow. Follow these steps and you are on your way to having beautiful brows that will work for your face.
First, pick the best tweezers for your needs. A pair of tweezers with a thin tip is good if you have thin, short eyebrows, or ingrown hairs. A square tip is best for thick and long eyebrow hairs. A slanted tip is the best of both worlds. Now, prepare your brows for shaping. Wash your face with warm water to remove any makeup or oils from the hairs and to loosen hair follicles. Then, wipe your brows with astringent.
If your skin is sensitive, apply a little numbing cream to your brows. Anti-itch cream or ambesol works well for this. It is best to pluck before bed so that the swelling has a chance to go down before you go out in public. Also, remember to tweeze the hairs in the direction they grow. This will lessen the pull on your skin and will keep the hair from breaking in half.
Now you can figure out the best shape for your face. Hold a pencil vertically along the side of your nose to measure your brows. Your eyebrow should start at outside edge of the pencil, if not, then it needs to be plucked to that point. If you have close-set eyes leaving a little more space will widen the look of your eyes. Hold the tweezers at a 45-degree angle to make it easier to get at the hairs you want to pull.
Next, hold the pencil to outside of your eye and line it up with the edge of your eyebrow. If the pencil does not line up with the edge of your eye then it needs to be plucked. The highest point of your brow should be a little past the outer corner of your eye’s iris and should taper off to the end of your eye. Take an eyebrow brush or soft toothbrush and brush the hairs of your eyebrow straight up. Trim any wayward hairs that are longer than the others. Then, brush them downward and trim any overly long hairs.
Another important part of eyebrow maintenance is to decide if your brows are too thick for your face. If you have a larger face with a strong jaw you will need thicker brows than if you have a thin, delicate face. Make sure, though, to keep your natural arch and not to thin your brows too much. Take an eyebrow pencil and trace your natural arch. Pluck any hairs that are outside of the arch. The last step is to remove any hairs that are in between your natural brows. No uni-brow. Follow these steps and you are on your way to having beautiful brows that will work for your face.
How to pluck your eyebrows
Around the world, plucking the eyebrows is considered a feminine beauty treatment, often used by sophisticated women to complete the aesthetic appeal of their facial features. In some cultures, women do not pluck their eyebrows before marrying or before attaining a solid age of maturity, perhaps their early to mid-twenties. When they do tweeze their brows, they may stop as part of a general neglect of bodily care in a sign of mourning when a loved one dies.
Many women in industrialized cultures pluck their eyebrows as part of their overall beauty routine. Depending on their eyebrow shape, how fast their hair grows, and general personal care, they may have to tweeze their brows weekly or more often while young, though as they age, hair growth may slow down somewhat.
To pluck your eyebrows for maximum benefits, follow a few steps like the following:
1. Wash your face, especially the brow areas, with warm water and mild soap. This will help to reduce the risk of irritation or inflammation by bacteria after plucking away unwanted hair. Pat your face dry with a clean towel. Get out your tweezers and make sure they are clean as well as free of any dust or debris. Stand before a wall mirror in good light so you can find the stray hairs.
2. Note the natural arch of your brows. If it is indefinable or thin, color it in with an eyebrow pencil, taking care not to streak or smudge the line. Now study the area to find extra hair on either side of the line or anywhere near it, including the bridge of the nose or the side of your face at the end of the brow line. You may want to apply a gentle lotion or cream to soften the hair in these areas. However, some creams may make the area greasy and prevent the hair from being grasped, since it will slip away from the tweezers. If this happens, remove the cream with a damp washcloth.
3. Take the tweezers in your right hand. Seize a single hair and pluck it quickly in the opposite direction in which it is growing. This will help to remove it thoroughly and promptly with minimum discomfort. Do this for every stray hair of any color (since they can come in a variety of shades) until you have cleared the areas around both brows of any unwanted hair.
4. Place removed hairs on a piece of tissue or newspaper for disposal later. Use a hand mirror to closely check the area for missed strays. Check your brow line to find the natural arch and to ensure both arches are somewhat even, with both ending about the same place on opposite sides of the face. The brows also should display about the same thickness and begin just above the inside corner of each eye. Pluck any gray or rogue hairs inside the brow line as well.
5. Wipe your face with a moist cloth to remove any residue. Check once more with both wall mirror and hand mirror to see if you missed any hairs. Wipe off the tweezers and put them away for next time. Apply eyebrow pencil and brow lightener as desired or when you next wear facial makeup.
Wash around your eyes gently each day as part of a facial cleansing routine. Be careful around the eyes to avoid contaminating them with pieces of fluff or lint from the washcloth, and to prevent wrinkling skin in the eye area. Check your brows for plucking needs on a weekly basis.
Many women in industrialized cultures pluck their eyebrows as part of their overall beauty routine. Depending on their eyebrow shape, how fast their hair grows, and general personal care, they may have to tweeze their brows weekly or more often while young, though as they age, hair growth may slow down somewhat.
To pluck your eyebrows for maximum benefits, follow a few steps like the following:
1. Wash your face, especially the brow areas, with warm water and mild soap. This will help to reduce the risk of irritation or inflammation by bacteria after plucking away unwanted hair. Pat your face dry with a clean towel. Get out your tweezers and make sure they are clean as well as free of any dust or debris. Stand before a wall mirror in good light so you can find the stray hairs.
2. Note the natural arch of your brows. If it is indefinable or thin, color it in with an eyebrow pencil, taking care not to streak or smudge the line. Now study the area to find extra hair on either side of the line or anywhere near it, including the bridge of the nose or the side of your face at the end of the brow line. You may want to apply a gentle lotion or cream to soften the hair in these areas. However, some creams may make the area greasy and prevent the hair from being grasped, since it will slip away from the tweezers. If this happens, remove the cream with a damp washcloth.
3. Take the tweezers in your right hand. Seize a single hair and pluck it quickly in the opposite direction in which it is growing. This will help to remove it thoroughly and promptly with minimum discomfort. Do this for every stray hair of any color (since they can come in a variety of shades) until you have cleared the areas around both brows of any unwanted hair.
4. Place removed hairs on a piece of tissue or newspaper for disposal later. Use a hand mirror to closely check the area for missed strays. Check your brow line to find the natural arch and to ensure both arches are somewhat even, with both ending about the same place on opposite sides of the face. The brows also should display about the same thickness and begin just above the inside corner of each eye. Pluck any gray or rogue hairs inside the brow line as well.
5. Wipe your face with a moist cloth to remove any residue. Check once more with both wall mirror and hand mirror to see if you missed any hairs. Wipe off the tweezers and put them away for next time. Apply eyebrow pencil and brow lightener as desired or when you next wear facial makeup.
Wash around your eyes gently each day as part of a facial cleansing routine. Be careful around the eyes to avoid contaminating them with pieces of fluff or lint from the washcloth, and to prevent wrinkling skin in the eye area. Check your brows for plucking needs on a weekly basis.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
How to Get Rid of Dark Spots Affordably and Quickly
The kitchen is rich with a lot of ingredients that you can use to concoct various home remedies for facial dark spots. There is no need for an expensive trip to your dermatologist if you knew which items in your kitchen can rid of age spots, black circles under the eyes, acne scars, freckles, and other such spots. Moreover, use of these home remedies helps avoid putting harsh chemicals on your face, which is one of the most sensitive parts of your body.
Citrus fruits
Citruses like oranges, lemons, and limes are rich in Vitamin C which is a natural bleaching agent. Of all citrus fruits, however, lemon is considered as one of the most effective home remedies for facial dark spots, especially for freckles and age spots. Simply apply some lemon juice directly on the spot, either with your hands or using a dab of cotton. The citric acid in the juice would work to bleach the spot and clarify your skin.
Various concoctions
Aside from using it as is, lemon juice may also be used as an ingredient for various home remedies for facial dark spots. You can add some lemon or lime juice in various vegetable and fruit masks such as cucumbers and apricots.
Parsley juice that is mixed with lemon, orange and red currant juices may also be applied with your favorite moisturizing cream. This mixture also has a lightening effect that works well with freckles and brown spots.
Milk and honey
Milk and honey also make for good natural remedies for treating dark facial spots. Like lemon, you can use these two as is or with other ingredients. For milk, you can use either sour milk or buttermilk which both contain lactic acid. This acid in milk has a gentle peeling effect which lightens skin without irritating it. Honey, on the other hand, as several skin renewing properties. It may be heated and applied alone or mixed with wheat germ for a more lightening effect.
Citrus fruits
Citruses like oranges, lemons, and limes are rich in Vitamin C which is a natural bleaching agent. Of all citrus fruits, however, lemon is considered as one of the most effective home remedies for facial dark spots, especially for freckles and age spots. Simply apply some lemon juice directly on the spot, either with your hands or using a dab of cotton. The citric acid in the juice would work to bleach the spot and clarify your skin.
Various concoctions
Aside from using it as is, lemon juice may also be used as an ingredient for various home remedies for facial dark spots. You can add some lemon or lime juice in various vegetable and fruit masks such as cucumbers and apricots.
Parsley juice that is mixed with lemon, orange and red currant juices may also be applied with your favorite moisturizing cream. This mixture also has a lightening effect that works well with freckles and brown spots.
Milk and honey
Milk and honey also make for good natural remedies for treating dark facial spots. Like lemon, you can use these two as is or with other ingredients. For milk, you can use either sour milk or buttermilk which both contain lactic acid. This acid in milk has a gentle peeling effect which lightens skin without irritating it. Honey, on the other hand, as several skin renewing properties. It may be heated and applied alone or mixed with wheat germ for a more lightening effect.
What Most of Us Do Not Know About Hair Loss in Women
When people think of hair loss, they often forget about hair loss in women. Hair loss in females is something that is more common than we realize. This condition is a significant issue that affects the lives of women everywhere. Women can more easily camouflage the issue of losing their hair by wearing wigs, scarves, hairpieces, extensions or using creative hairstyles, hiding the problem from others and often from themselves.
What Causes Hair Loss
Hair loss in women can come from multiple sources. If you know the different causes, you can know what to look for if you are starting to see the beginnings of this condition. If you have already started to lose hair, then treatment should be imminent.
One of the major causes in women is stress. Just like men, stress is one of the hair loss causes that can actually be stopped and reversed. Facing the problem and finding a solution to the stress issues, permits the body to get back to normal without the 'fight or flight" hormones in its system. Consulting your doctor is the best way to work on this hair loss cause.
Another major cause is lack of proper nutrition. If someone has malnutrition issues, or are missing some of the important vitamins and nutrients that they need, they can lose their hair. The hair cannot remain thick and elastic and the hair will not remain anchored in the follicle if the body does not have the healthy level of nutrition that it needs.
Another reason for hair loss is the excessive use of chemicals. Hair loss in women can be caused by gooey shampoos or conditioners that clog the scalp follicles. Not enough shampooing leaves too much oil behind, and too much shampooing with harsh products that can strip the hair of essential oils can damage the hair by making it weak and brittle. Dyeing, perming or straightening the hair uses chemicals that are not good for hair health. Physical abuse by excessive use of curling irons, flat irons and blow dryers also can speed up the process of losing one's hair. Also, some prescribed drugs can take their toll on the system and cause temporary or permanent hair loss. Most women want to look their "best" as judged by society in the latest magazine and TV ads, but abuse of the scalp and body takes its toll eventually, and we can wind up losing the very item we were trying to beautify in the first place.
Preventing Hair Loss in Women
By being proactive and trying to prevent hair loss in women, you need to make sure that you are doing all that is possible to help make or keep the hair healthy. If you have the vitamins that you need, don't use harsh chemicals, and don't physically abuse your hair, you can be sure to keep it somewhat healthy. Keep an eye on stress levels and seek professional help if necessary.
Hereditary thinning or balding may not be preventable as a cause, but using the methods above and seeking out some of the new treatments available such as laser hair regrowth therapy and a system of nutrients taken internally and applied externally, you can keep your hair looking its best for a long time.
Women who suffer from hair loss will often not notice it at the onset, as many do not expect that they would have to deal with hair loss in the first place. Don't be caught off guard. By being completely informed on how women can suffer from hair loss just as men do, you are one step ahead of the problem, and can take steps now to preserve or regain that beautiful head of hair you want to see in the mirror.
What Causes Hair Loss
Hair loss in women can come from multiple sources. If you know the different causes, you can know what to look for if you are starting to see the beginnings of this condition. If you have already started to lose hair, then treatment should be imminent.
One of the major causes in women is stress. Just like men, stress is one of the hair loss causes that can actually be stopped and reversed. Facing the problem and finding a solution to the stress issues, permits the body to get back to normal without the 'fight or flight" hormones in its system. Consulting your doctor is the best way to work on this hair loss cause.
Another major cause is lack of proper nutrition. If someone has malnutrition issues, or are missing some of the important vitamins and nutrients that they need, they can lose their hair. The hair cannot remain thick and elastic and the hair will not remain anchored in the follicle if the body does not have the healthy level of nutrition that it needs.
Another reason for hair loss is the excessive use of chemicals. Hair loss in women can be caused by gooey shampoos or conditioners that clog the scalp follicles. Not enough shampooing leaves too much oil behind, and too much shampooing with harsh products that can strip the hair of essential oils can damage the hair by making it weak and brittle. Dyeing, perming or straightening the hair uses chemicals that are not good for hair health. Physical abuse by excessive use of curling irons, flat irons and blow dryers also can speed up the process of losing one's hair. Also, some prescribed drugs can take their toll on the system and cause temporary or permanent hair loss. Most women want to look their "best" as judged by society in the latest magazine and TV ads, but abuse of the scalp and body takes its toll eventually, and we can wind up losing the very item we were trying to beautify in the first place.
Preventing Hair Loss in Women
By being proactive and trying to prevent hair loss in women, you need to make sure that you are doing all that is possible to help make or keep the hair healthy. If you have the vitamins that you need, don't use harsh chemicals, and don't physically abuse your hair, you can be sure to keep it somewhat healthy. Keep an eye on stress levels and seek professional help if necessary.
Hereditary thinning or balding may not be preventable as a cause, but using the methods above and seeking out some of the new treatments available such as laser hair regrowth therapy and a system of nutrients taken internally and applied externally, you can keep your hair looking its best for a long time.
Women who suffer from hair loss will often not notice it at the onset, as many do not expect that they would have to deal with hair loss in the first place. Don't be caught off guard. By being completely informed on how women can suffer from hair loss just as men do, you are one step ahead of the problem, and can take steps now to preserve or regain that beautiful head of hair you want to see in the mirror.
Valuable Tips For Thickening Hair Fast
Going through some type of hair loss problem or another? You can rest assure that it's not too hard or impossible to thicken your hair fast.
You can easily see more hair growing and end thinning hair without ever having to worry about using commercial hair loss thickeners or products. Sounds a bit too good to believe, but it's not hard and it's really within your reach right now.
Chances are you don't have a lot to spend on hair loss products, nor do you even care to waste your money or risk your health. Often times hair loss treatments of all sorts, especially those involving solutions, pills, and creams, cause side effects.
This is why many are turning to natural tips that help them thicken hair and regrow it.
Tip #1 : The first tip for ending hair loss and obtaining thicker hair is to avoid Sodium Laureth Sulfate. What is this you may wonder? It's a degreasing chemical used in shampoo to lift trapped dirt and oil.
The only problem is that it leads to hair loss and will soon thin your hair out with continued use. Aim for natural haircare products such as those containing healing ingredients.
Tip #2 : Eat more nutritious foods that contain hair-growing minerals and vitamins. Yes you need certain vitamins for healthy growth functions in the body, but you also need some for the healthy growth of your hair.
All vitamins do not benefit the growth of your hair. Go for the use of biotin, vitamin B, vitamin C, and even ginkgo biloba as an aid to restoring the natural growth of your hair.
Tip #3 : Fight off DHT. DHT is a hormone that's produced in the body by an enzyme. Once you have high DHT levels, then you can pretty much kiss your hair goodbye. A great way to fight this off is to drink four cups of green tea daily.
There are only but three tips that will help you. What do you think you could do if you had your hands on hundreds of them?
You can easily see more hair growing and end thinning hair without ever having to worry about using commercial hair loss thickeners or products. Sounds a bit too good to believe, but it's not hard and it's really within your reach right now.
Chances are you don't have a lot to spend on hair loss products, nor do you even care to waste your money or risk your health. Often times hair loss treatments of all sorts, especially those involving solutions, pills, and creams, cause side effects.
This is why many are turning to natural tips that help them thicken hair and regrow it.
Tip #1 : The first tip for ending hair loss and obtaining thicker hair is to avoid Sodium Laureth Sulfate. What is this you may wonder? It's a degreasing chemical used in shampoo to lift trapped dirt and oil.
The only problem is that it leads to hair loss and will soon thin your hair out with continued use. Aim for natural haircare products such as those containing healing ingredients.
Tip #2 : Eat more nutritious foods that contain hair-growing minerals and vitamins. Yes you need certain vitamins for healthy growth functions in the body, but you also need some for the healthy growth of your hair.
All vitamins do not benefit the growth of your hair. Go for the use of biotin, vitamin B, vitamin C, and even ginkgo biloba as an aid to restoring the natural growth of your hair.
Tip #3 : Fight off DHT. DHT is a hormone that's produced in the body by an enzyme. Once you have high DHT levels, then you can pretty much kiss your hair goodbye. A great way to fight this off is to drink four cups of green tea daily.
There are only but three tips that will help you. What do you think you could do if you had your hands on hundreds of them?
When you can't sleep--Yoga will help you
It's 3 a.m. You're scheduled to give a big presentation at eleven, only eight hours away. You desperately need to sleep so you will be rested and alert when your big moment comes, but here you are staring wide eyed at the bedroom ceiling. Your mind is agitated and your body won't relax. The harder you work at getting to sleep, the wider awake you are. You've already tried counting sheep, watching the late show, and making yourself a snack-all to no avail. In desperation you reach for a sleeping pill.
This is a common scenario in the United States, where approximately one third of all adults suffer from some type of sleep disorder. Insomnia, the most common type by far, is clinically defined as the inability to fall asleep after lying in bed for thirty minutes or the inability to sustain sleep for more than a few hours without waking. Practically speaking, however, insomnia can be defined as unrestful sleep.
We've all experienced some form of insomnia at particularly stressful times in our lives. It's normal to have trouble sleeping at these times, and it usually passes after a night or two. Insomnia is a problem only when it becomes chronic. Although it is associated with certain physical illnesses-arthritis, heart failure, and chronic lung disease, for example-most experts agree that insomnia is a symptom, not an illness in itself. So what is it a symptom of? There are two answers-the ancient and the modern. At first glance they seem completely different, but a closer look reveals some remarkable similarities.
An Ancient Angle on a Modern Malady
Ayurveda, the healing science associated with yoga, tells us that all disease is caused by indigestion. That is, at some level-either physical, mental, or emotional-we haven't completed extracting what is helpful and eliminating what is indigestible. This is one of the keys to understanding insomnia.
On the physical level, indigestion is caused either by bad food or by weak digestion and leads to conditions like heartburn (a contributor to insomnia), flatulence, and diarrhea. Mental indigestion is the inability to let go of a certain incident or thought-usually an unpleasant experience. This can be a distant tragedy like the earthquake in Kobe, Japan, criticism from someone whose opinion we value, or a work-related problem we're trying to solve. Emotional indigestion is the recurrence of a feeling, often sadness or anger, long after the precipitating event. The emotion has not been sufficiently digested and remains just under the surface, springing up for no apparent reason. Mental and emotional indigestion are the most common causes of insomnia. Some of us even grind our teeth while we sleep in an attempt to chew and digest recurring thoughts and emotions.
The Contemporary Angle
Modern explanations for insomnia range from overstimulation and stress to mucking up our waking-sleeping cycle. Stimulants include caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, and some sodas), and sugar, as well as activities such as aerobic exercise, arguing, and watching violent TV shows (or the evening news, for that matter). All these taken (or experienced) too close to bedtime can rev us up so much that it is difficult to fall asleep. This is only another way of saying we are still attempting to digest these substances or events at the same time we are courting sleep.
Stress is another form of indigestion. Most of my patients who suffer from insomnia tell me, "My worries keep me awake," or "My mind won't stop. I don't know how to turn it off." Anxiety, worry, depression, unpleasant memories, and fears are the most common cause of sleeplessness. They seem to take on a life of their own and are determined to stay awake, even though it's way past bedtime.
The third common cause of insomnia, one which has become prevalent only in modern times, is tampering with the normal cycle of sleeping and waking. This is a mechanical problem of sorts. Human beings have a normal sleep rhythm; in general, we are designed to be awake in daylight and asleep at night. People who work the night shift, or travelers who have recently crossed several time zones, may experience insomnia simply because they are trying to sleep when their internal clock is telling their body to be awake.
Our bodies are designed for sleep to come effortlessly. When it doesn't, when we're holding on to the day's stresses and reaching out for tomorrow's too, there are a number of ways of inducing the body and mind to let go and slip gently into a restful sleep.
Create an Environment that Will Help You Sleep
Your bedroom should be tranquil and inviting. Make it comfortable and conducive to sleep. Eliminate ambient light and any noise that could disturb your sleep. If possible, reserve the bedroom for sleep and sex. Conduct other activities-reading work-related material, watching TV, paying bills, and disciplining your children-in another room. In time, this will create the expectation in your body that the bedroom is where it goes to relax and rest.
End the Day with a Calming Routine
Go to bed about the same time every night. Create a routine that prepares you for sleep. You may already have some kind of program you follow before you go to bed-locking the house, brushing your teeth, maybe reading a little. A pre-bed routine is a way of telling your unconscious that it's time to sleep.
Make sure that this routine is relaxing, not stimulating-winding down before bedtime increases the likelihood that your mind will let you rest. If you find the news disturbing, skip the late broadcast. If you live in a safe neighborhood, take a leisurely stroll. Read something pleasant and soothing-save the suspense novel for earlier in the day. Take a hot bath. Sit for a period of meditation. The trick is to calm your mind and quiet your nerves before you get into bed.
And speaking of routines, getting up at the same time every morning will make it easier to fall asleep at night. Attempting to compensate for a night of disturbed sleep by staying in bed longer in the morning will simply further disrupt your sleep cycle. Get up on time, even if you don't feel like you've had enough rest-you'll have a much better chance of falling asleep easily when bedtime rolls around again.
Do a Relaxation Exercise
Taking a few minutes to do a short relaxation exercise just before getting into bed is an excellent way of letting go. This doesn't have to be elaborate. Great benefits can be gained by simply lying on your back in the corpse pose (hands at your sides, palms upward, feet slightly apart). Close your eyes, and systematically address every part of your body. Start at your scalp and move toward your toes. Begin by softening your forehead, eyes, face, and jaw. Tensing and then releasing each muscle group help tight muscles loosen, especially those in the neck and shoulders. Continue giving attention to each area of your body-the arms, the trunk, and the legs-until you reach your toes. Surrender to gravity.
Stay in this relaxed state for a few minutes, letting the floor support you. Focus on your breathing, releasing all other concerns. Let your breath come from deep in your abdomen, and let it flow smoothly, slowly, and evenly. This simple exercise is a way of telling your mind and body that it is OK to stop thinking, working, and struggling.
Pay Attention to What You Ingest
It's best to eat a light meal in the evening, especially if you are dining late. You will sleep more deeply if you have finished digesting your food before you go to bed. A rich, heavy meal close to bedtime will interfere with your rest and leave you feeling sluggish in the morning.
Avoid caffeine, especially after midday. This includes coffee, tea, chocolate, and many sodas. Coffee has a half-life of four to six hours. That means it takes that long for half of the coffee to be digested, and another four to six hours for the next quarter of it to be eliminated from your body. In other words, it takes twelve to fourteen hours for 7/8 of the coffee you have ingested to be eliminated. No wonder you still feel wide awake at eleven when you had your last cup after dinner.
Sugar can also cause problems. Consider avoiding refined sugar in the evening because it is absorbed immediately into the bloodstream. That's why it gives you a burst of energy and sometimes makes you feel a little high. Eating sugar near bedtime can make you restless and jittery and can keep you from falling asleep. If you need a treat at bedtime, a glass of warm milk is your best bet.
Alcohol and tobacco taken near bedtime can also interfere with deep sleep. It's true that a nightcap will make you sleepy, but the sleep it induces is light, restless, and shot through with periods of wakefulness. Likewise, you may associate tobacco with relaxation, but it actually increases tension. Tobacco is a stimulant that makes the heart race and blood pressure rise. It's best avoided altogether, but if you choose to smoke, avoiding it in the hour or two before bedtime will make your sleep more restful.
Get Some Exercise
If we polled farmers or anyone else who does manual labor eight to ten hours a day, very few would report a problem with insomnia. But for most of us, hard work is reserved for the mental sphere, so we need to exercise our bodies if we're going to sleep well. Studies of athletes have shown that they do not require more (or less) sleep than sedentary folks, but their ratio of deep to light sleep is higher. Doing some form of aerobic exercise at least three times a week also increases this ratio. Just be sure to avoid strenuous exercise within several hours of bedtime-it can be stimulating. But if you exercise at any other time, you'll sleep better.
It's OK to do long, slow stretches near bedtime, however, for they will release muscular tension and prepare you for sleep. Focus on asanas that you find relaxing. Avoid intense backward bends, such as the wheel, as they may prove to be too invigorating at the end of the day.
Don't Drug Yourself to Sleep
According to a recent article in the Archives of Internal Medicine, approximately 20 million prescriptions are written each year for sleeping aids, a number dwarfed by the quantity of over-the-counter sleep medications sold annually. Although most of these drugs do induce sleep within ten to twenty minutes, they interfere with the deeper stages of sleep. And all of them impair functioning the next day in one way or another. They can be helpful for short-term insomnia resulting from a sudden stressful event, but even the mainstream medi-cal community agrees that sleep medications/sedatives are not helpful in resolving chronic sleep problems.
Experiment with Natural Remedies Homeopathic remedies and herbs can help with insomnia. Homeopathic medicines are extremely dilute extracts from natural substances, so they don't have the rebound effects drugs do. They are considered to be non-toxic by the FDA, and many lowpotency remedies are sold over the counter. One of the best treatments for insomnia is homeopathic coffee, coffea cruda. Although coffee causes irritability and sleeplessness in physiologic doses, in homeopathic doses it can cure these states.
Valerian root, passionflower, and hops, taken before bedtime in either tablet or tea form, are other alternatives. These gentle, relaxing substances help your body rest, but they don't affect your central nervous system the way prescription sleep medicines do. Both homeopathic remedies and herbal preparations can be purchased at most healthfood stores or through a holistic physician.
Don't Panic!
Insomnia is a huge problem in this fast-paced, sugar and caffeine addicted country. But if we can first identify the habits we have that contribute to our sleeplessness and slowly change them, and at the same time add more relaxation and deep breathing to our pre-sleep routine, we will sleep better.
Above all, don't panic. Insomnia is not life-threatening, although many people respond to it with agitation or fear. The more anxious you make yourself about not sleeping, the more sleep will elude you. So turn the clock to the wall and drop the internal dialogue about what a horrible day you will have tomorrow if you don't get to sleep immediately. The key to sound sleep lies in surrendering, not in trying harder. Once you're in bed, focus on your breath and empty your mind. If you have a mantra, let your mind rest in it. Be kind to yourself. Remember, sleep cannot be forced, but it can be coaxed. It is waiting for you. Allow yourself to come to it, enter it, and let the world spin without you for a while.
This is a common scenario in the United States, where approximately one third of all adults suffer from some type of sleep disorder. Insomnia, the most common type by far, is clinically defined as the inability to fall asleep after lying in bed for thirty minutes or the inability to sustain sleep for more than a few hours without waking. Practically speaking, however, insomnia can be defined as unrestful sleep.
We've all experienced some form of insomnia at particularly stressful times in our lives. It's normal to have trouble sleeping at these times, and it usually passes after a night or two. Insomnia is a problem only when it becomes chronic. Although it is associated with certain physical illnesses-arthritis, heart failure, and chronic lung disease, for example-most experts agree that insomnia is a symptom, not an illness in itself. So what is it a symptom of? There are two answers-the ancient and the modern. At first glance they seem completely different, but a closer look reveals some remarkable similarities.
An Ancient Angle on a Modern Malady
Ayurveda, the healing science associated with yoga, tells us that all disease is caused by indigestion. That is, at some level-either physical, mental, or emotional-we haven't completed extracting what is helpful and eliminating what is indigestible. This is one of the keys to understanding insomnia.
On the physical level, indigestion is caused either by bad food or by weak digestion and leads to conditions like heartburn (a contributor to insomnia), flatulence, and diarrhea. Mental indigestion is the inability to let go of a certain incident or thought-usually an unpleasant experience. This can be a distant tragedy like the earthquake in Kobe, Japan, criticism from someone whose opinion we value, or a work-related problem we're trying to solve. Emotional indigestion is the recurrence of a feeling, often sadness or anger, long after the precipitating event. The emotion has not been sufficiently digested and remains just under the surface, springing up for no apparent reason. Mental and emotional indigestion are the most common causes of insomnia. Some of us even grind our teeth while we sleep in an attempt to chew and digest recurring thoughts and emotions.
The Contemporary Angle
Modern explanations for insomnia range from overstimulation and stress to mucking up our waking-sleeping cycle. Stimulants include caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, and some sodas), and sugar, as well as activities such as aerobic exercise, arguing, and watching violent TV shows (or the evening news, for that matter). All these taken (or experienced) too close to bedtime can rev us up so much that it is difficult to fall asleep. This is only another way of saying we are still attempting to digest these substances or events at the same time we are courting sleep.
Stress is another form of indigestion. Most of my patients who suffer from insomnia tell me, "My worries keep me awake," or "My mind won't stop. I don't know how to turn it off." Anxiety, worry, depression, unpleasant memories, and fears are the most common cause of sleeplessness. They seem to take on a life of their own and are determined to stay awake, even though it's way past bedtime.
The third common cause of insomnia, one which has become prevalent only in modern times, is tampering with the normal cycle of sleeping and waking. This is a mechanical problem of sorts. Human beings have a normal sleep rhythm; in general, we are designed to be awake in daylight and asleep at night. People who work the night shift, or travelers who have recently crossed several time zones, may experience insomnia simply because they are trying to sleep when their internal clock is telling their body to be awake.
Our bodies are designed for sleep to come effortlessly. When it doesn't, when we're holding on to the day's stresses and reaching out for tomorrow's too, there are a number of ways of inducing the body and mind to let go and slip gently into a restful sleep.
Create an Environment that Will Help You Sleep
Your bedroom should be tranquil and inviting. Make it comfortable and conducive to sleep. Eliminate ambient light and any noise that could disturb your sleep. If possible, reserve the bedroom for sleep and sex. Conduct other activities-reading work-related material, watching TV, paying bills, and disciplining your children-in another room. In time, this will create the expectation in your body that the bedroom is where it goes to relax and rest.
End the Day with a Calming Routine
Go to bed about the same time every night. Create a routine that prepares you for sleep. You may already have some kind of program you follow before you go to bed-locking the house, brushing your teeth, maybe reading a little. A pre-bed routine is a way of telling your unconscious that it's time to sleep.
Make sure that this routine is relaxing, not stimulating-winding down before bedtime increases the likelihood that your mind will let you rest. If you find the news disturbing, skip the late broadcast. If you live in a safe neighborhood, take a leisurely stroll. Read something pleasant and soothing-save the suspense novel for earlier in the day. Take a hot bath. Sit for a period of meditation. The trick is to calm your mind and quiet your nerves before you get into bed.
And speaking of routines, getting up at the same time every morning will make it easier to fall asleep at night. Attempting to compensate for a night of disturbed sleep by staying in bed longer in the morning will simply further disrupt your sleep cycle. Get up on time, even if you don't feel like you've had enough rest-you'll have a much better chance of falling asleep easily when bedtime rolls around again.
Do a Relaxation Exercise
Taking a few minutes to do a short relaxation exercise just before getting into bed is an excellent way of letting go. This doesn't have to be elaborate. Great benefits can be gained by simply lying on your back in the corpse pose (hands at your sides, palms upward, feet slightly apart). Close your eyes, and systematically address every part of your body. Start at your scalp and move toward your toes. Begin by softening your forehead, eyes, face, and jaw. Tensing and then releasing each muscle group help tight muscles loosen, especially those in the neck and shoulders. Continue giving attention to each area of your body-the arms, the trunk, and the legs-until you reach your toes. Surrender to gravity.
Stay in this relaxed state for a few minutes, letting the floor support you. Focus on your breathing, releasing all other concerns. Let your breath come from deep in your abdomen, and let it flow smoothly, slowly, and evenly. This simple exercise is a way of telling your mind and body that it is OK to stop thinking, working, and struggling.
Pay Attention to What You Ingest
It's best to eat a light meal in the evening, especially if you are dining late. You will sleep more deeply if you have finished digesting your food before you go to bed. A rich, heavy meal close to bedtime will interfere with your rest and leave you feeling sluggish in the morning.
Avoid caffeine, especially after midday. This includes coffee, tea, chocolate, and many sodas. Coffee has a half-life of four to six hours. That means it takes that long for half of the coffee to be digested, and another four to six hours for the next quarter of it to be eliminated from your body. In other words, it takes twelve to fourteen hours for 7/8 of the coffee you have ingested to be eliminated. No wonder you still feel wide awake at eleven when you had your last cup after dinner.
Sugar can also cause problems. Consider avoiding refined sugar in the evening because it is absorbed immediately into the bloodstream. That's why it gives you a burst of energy and sometimes makes you feel a little high. Eating sugar near bedtime can make you restless and jittery and can keep you from falling asleep. If you need a treat at bedtime, a glass of warm milk is your best bet.
Alcohol and tobacco taken near bedtime can also interfere with deep sleep. It's true that a nightcap will make you sleepy, but the sleep it induces is light, restless, and shot through with periods of wakefulness. Likewise, you may associate tobacco with relaxation, but it actually increases tension. Tobacco is a stimulant that makes the heart race and blood pressure rise. It's best avoided altogether, but if you choose to smoke, avoiding it in the hour or two before bedtime will make your sleep more restful.
Get Some Exercise
If we polled farmers or anyone else who does manual labor eight to ten hours a day, very few would report a problem with insomnia. But for most of us, hard work is reserved for the mental sphere, so we need to exercise our bodies if we're going to sleep well. Studies of athletes have shown that they do not require more (or less) sleep than sedentary folks, but their ratio of deep to light sleep is higher. Doing some form of aerobic exercise at least three times a week also increases this ratio. Just be sure to avoid strenuous exercise within several hours of bedtime-it can be stimulating. But if you exercise at any other time, you'll sleep better.
It's OK to do long, slow stretches near bedtime, however, for they will release muscular tension and prepare you for sleep. Focus on asanas that you find relaxing. Avoid intense backward bends, such as the wheel, as they may prove to be too invigorating at the end of the day.
Don't Drug Yourself to Sleep
According to a recent article in the Archives of Internal Medicine, approximately 20 million prescriptions are written each year for sleeping aids, a number dwarfed by the quantity of over-the-counter sleep medications sold annually. Although most of these drugs do induce sleep within ten to twenty minutes, they interfere with the deeper stages of sleep. And all of them impair functioning the next day in one way or another. They can be helpful for short-term insomnia resulting from a sudden stressful event, but even the mainstream medi-cal community agrees that sleep medications/sedatives are not helpful in resolving chronic sleep problems.
Experiment with Natural Remedies Homeopathic remedies and herbs can help with insomnia. Homeopathic medicines are extremely dilute extracts from natural substances, so they don't have the rebound effects drugs do. They are considered to be non-toxic by the FDA, and many lowpotency remedies are sold over the counter. One of the best treatments for insomnia is homeopathic coffee, coffea cruda. Although coffee causes irritability and sleeplessness in physiologic doses, in homeopathic doses it can cure these states.
Valerian root, passionflower, and hops, taken before bedtime in either tablet or tea form, are other alternatives. These gentle, relaxing substances help your body rest, but they don't affect your central nervous system the way prescription sleep medicines do. Both homeopathic remedies and herbal preparations can be purchased at most healthfood stores or through a holistic physician.
Don't Panic!
Insomnia is a huge problem in this fast-paced, sugar and caffeine addicted country. But if we can first identify the habits we have that contribute to our sleeplessness and slowly change them, and at the same time add more relaxation and deep breathing to our pre-sleep routine, we will sleep better.
Above all, don't panic. Insomnia is not life-threatening, although many people respond to it with agitation or fear. The more anxious you make yourself about not sleeping, the more sleep will elude you. So turn the clock to the wall and drop the internal dialogue about what a horrible day you will have tomorrow if you don't get to sleep immediately. The key to sound sleep lies in surrendering, not in trying harder. Once you're in bed, focus on your breath and empty your mind. If you have a mantra, let your mind rest in it. Be kind to yourself. Remember, sleep cannot be forced, but it can be coaxed. It is waiting for you. Allow yourself to come to it, enter it, and let the world spin without you for a while.
Your Body's Warning Signs
Usually a headache is just a headache, and heartburn is just a sign that you rang the Taco Bell a few times too many. Except when they're not.
The culprit Odds are, any jackhammering in your brain is just a migraine. But if it's not accompanied by other migraine symptoms (such as a visual aura), sudden and severe pain--we're talking the absolute worst headache of your life--can signal a brain aneurysm. These arterial bulges occur in up to 5 percent of people, but most of the time they don't cause any trouble--you won't even know you have one unless the weak spot leaks or tears. If that happens, escaping blood can flood the surrounding tissue (causing a violent headache) and cut off the oxygen supply there. Smoking and having a family history of aneurysms increase your odds.
The fix "A burst aneurysm can cause brain damage within minutes, so you need to call 911 immediately," says cardiologist Elsa-Grace Giardina, M.D., director of the Center for Women's Health at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center. Your doctor will take a CT scan to look for bleeding in the space around the brain. If he finds hemorrhaging, you'll head into the OR pronto for surgery to repair the blood vessel.
The culprit It's likely that the tooth's nerve has become damaged, usually because the surrounding pearly white is cracked or rotting away. Unless you get it patched up quickly, bacteria in your mouth can infect the nerve. And you definitely don't want that breeding colony to spread throughout your body, says Kimberly Harms, D.D.S., a dentist outside St. Paul, Minnesota.
The fix Time for a cavity check! You may just need a filling to cover the exposed nerve. But if it's infected, you're in for a root canal, in which the tooth's bacteria-laden pulp is removed and replaced with plastic caulking material. Antibiotics can clear up any infection that has spread beyond the mouth.
The culprits You may just need some Beano. But if you feel as if you're being skewered in your right side and you're also nauseated and running a fever, you could have appendicitis. It occurs when something (like a stray piece of feces) migrates into the space where the appendix empties into the colon, blocking it. Soon the organ becomes dangerously inflamed. Another possibility is an ovarian cyst. Typically these fluid-filled sacs are harmless and disappear on their own. But if one twists or ruptures, it can cause terrible pain.
The fix In both cases, you're looking at emergency surgery. "If you don't remove an inflamed appendix, it can burst," says Lin Chang, M.D., a gastroenterologist and codirector of UCLA's Center for Neurovisceral Sciences and Women's Health. This can cause dangerous swelling of the tissue surrounding your organs. A twisted cyst also needs to be removed right away, as it can block bloodflow to your ovary within hours. If that happens, the doctor will need to cut out the entire ovary (and the eggs inside) along with the cyst.
The culprit You probably just peppered your pizza with too many chilis. But if you know you're at risk for heart problems, don't blow it off--it could be a heart attack. Every year, about 10,000 women under 45 have one. Symptoms tend to be less severe in women than in men, so "you may just feel pressure, along with fatigue, throat pain, or shortness of breath," Giardina says.
The fix Feel the burn after feasting on chalupas? Normal. Feel as if you're being squeezed to death by a boa constrictor after a hard workout? Not normal. In younger women, a heart attack usually happens when you're working up a sweat. If that's the case, dial 911. Your doc will do an EKG to determine whether your heart has been damaged, then decide on the best treatment, whether it's clot-attacking drugs or surgery to clear your arteries.
The culprit Who hasn't sometimes felt like an overinflated balloon--especially right before your period? But if it happens often and the problem is new, the worst-case scenario is ovarian cancer. In 2007 the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation released the first national consensus on early symptoms: They include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, and difficulty eating. If you start experiencing them almost daily for more than two or three weeks, raise a red flag.
Ovarian cancer isn't as common as breast or lung cancer (about 1 in 70 women will get it during their lives), but your risk is higher if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer or if you've never been pregnant.
The fix Book an appointment with your ob-gyn to talk about your symptoms. If she suspects cancer, she'll send you to a gynecologic oncologist for an ultrasound or a CT scan to check for a tumor. The good news: Five-year survival rates for ovarian cancer are 90 percent in women who are diagnosed early.
The culprit If you've just helped your cousin move into her new fourth-floor apartment, anti-inflammatories should banish the pain. But if they don't work, hobble to an orthopedist. "You could have a disc (one of the spongy rings that cushions the bones in your spine) pressing on the spinal nerve," says Letha Griffin, M.D., an orthopedist and sports-medicine specialist in Atlanta. Without proper attention, you risk permanent nerve damage. And it's hard to do the mambo if you can't feel your feet.
The fix An X-ray or MRI can show whether a disc in your back has slipped or ruptured. As long as the numbness isn't getting worse, your doctor will probably prescribe physical therapy along with oral steroids or NSAIDs to reduce nerve inflammation. But if you're still laid up after a few months, you may need surgery to remove the disc.
The culprit If one of your calves is on fire, you might have deep-vein thrombosis, or DVT, also known as a blood clot. Here's how it usually happens: A flight to Tokyo or a deadline at work keeps you glued to your chair for hours. Blood starts to pool in your lower body and forms a clot. When it gets big enough to act as a stopper in the vein or artery, the area around it will start to hurt and swell. Smokers and women who take the Pill have a higher risk of developing clots.
The fix Resist the urge to massage the area or to walk it off. If the clot breaks free, it can travel through your veins up to your lungs and cut off your oxygen supply. Instead, see your doctor, who will do a CT scan or ultrasound to look for DVT. If you have a clot, you'll need to take blood thinners--sometimes for up to a year--to dissolve it, says Suzanne Steinbaum, M.D., director of women and heart disease at the Heart and Vascular Institute at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
- Severe head pain
The culprit Odds are, any jackhammering in your brain is just a migraine. But if it's not accompanied by other migraine symptoms (such as a visual aura), sudden and severe pain--we're talking the absolute worst headache of your life--can signal a brain aneurysm. These arterial bulges occur in up to 5 percent of people, but most of the time they don't cause any trouble--you won't even know you have one unless the weak spot leaks or tears. If that happens, escaping blood can flood the surrounding tissue (causing a violent headache) and cut off the oxygen supply there. Smoking and having a family history of aneurysms increase your odds.
The fix "A burst aneurysm can cause brain damage within minutes, so you need to call 911 immediately," says cardiologist Elsa-Grace Giardina, M.D., director of the Center for Women's Health at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center. Your doctor will take a CT scan to look for bleeding in the space around the brain. If he finds hemorrhaging, you'll head into the OR pronto for surgery to repair the blood vessel.
- Throbbing tooth
The culprit It's likely that the tooth's nerve has become damaged, usually because the surrounding pearly white is cracked or rotting away. Unless you get it patched up quickly, bacteria in your mouth can infect the nerve. And you definitely don't want that breeding colony to spread throughout your body, says Kimberly Harms, D.D.S., a dentist outside St. Paul, Minnesota.
The fix Time for a cavity check! You may just need a filling to cover the exposed nerve. But if it's infected, you're in for a root canal, in which the tooth's bacteria-laden pulp is removed and replaced with plastic caulking material. Antibiotics can clear up any infection that has spread beyond the mouth.
- Sharp pain in your side
The culprits You may just need some Beano. But if you feel as if you're being skewered in your right side and you're also nauseated and running a fever, you could have appendicitis. It occurs when something (like a stray piece of feces) migrates into the space where the appendix empties into the colon, blocking it. Soon the organ becomes dangerously inflamed. Another possibility is an ovarian cyst. Typically these fluid-filled sacs are harmless and disappear on their own. But if one twists or ruptures, it can cause terrible pain.
The fix In both cases, you're looking at emergency surgery. "If you don't remove an inflamed appendix, it can burst," says Lin Chang, M.D., a gastroenterologist and codirector of UCLA's Center for Neurovisceral Sciences and Women's Health. This can cause dangerous swelling of the tissue surrounding your organs. A twisted cyst also needs to be removed right away, as it can block bloodflow to your ovary within hours. If that happens, the doctor will need to cut out the entire ovary (and the eggs inside) along with the cyst.
- Passing chest pain
The culprit You probably just peppered your pizza with too many chilis. But if you know you're at risk for heart problems, don't blow it off--it could be a heart attack. Every year, about 10,000 women under 45 have one. Symptoms tend to be less severe in women than in men, so "you may just feel pressure, along with fatigue, throat pain, or shortness of breath," Giardina says.
The fix Feel the burn after feasting on chalupas? Normal. Feel as if you're being squeezed to death by a boa constrictor after a hard workout? Not normal. In younger women, a heart attack usually happens when you're working up a sweat. If that's the case, dial 911. Your doc will do an EKG to determine whether your heart has been damaged, then decide on the best treatment, whether it's clot-attacking drugs or surgery to clear your arteries.
- Abdominal discomfort with gas or bloating
The culprit Who hasn't sometimes felt like an overinflated balloon--especially right before your period? But if it happens often and the problem is new, the worst-case scenario is ovarian cancer. In 2007 the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation released the first national consensus on early symptoms: They include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, and difficulty eating. If you start experiencing them almost daily for more than two or three weeks, raise a red flag.
Ovarian cancer isn't as common as breast or lung cancer (about 1 in 70 women will get it during their lives), but your risk is higher if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer or if you've never been pregnant.
The fix Book an appointment with your ob-gyn to talk about your symptoms. If she suspects cancer, she'll send you to a gynecologic oncologist for an ultrasound or a CT scan to check for a tumor. The good news: Five-year survival rates for ovarian cancer are 90 percent in women who are diagnosed early.
- Back pain with tingling toes
The culprit If you've just helped your cousin move into her new fourth-floor apartment, anti-inflammatories should banish the pain. But if they don't work, hobble to an orthopedist. "You could have a disc (one of the spongy rings that cushions the bones in your spine) pressing on the spinal nerve," says Letha Griffin, M.D., an orthopedist and sports-medicine specialist in Atlanta. Without proper attention, you risk permanent nerve damage. And it's hard to do the mambo if you can't feel your feet.
The fix An X-ray or MRI can show whether a disc in your back has slipped or ruptured. As long as the numbness isn't getting worse, your doctor will probably prescribe physical therapy along with oral steroids or NSAIDs to reduce nerve inflammation. But if you're still laid up after a few months, you may need surgery to remove the disc.
- Leg pain with swelling
The culprit If one of your calves is on fire, you might have deep-vein thrombosis, or DVT, also known as a blood clot. Here's how it usually happens: A flight to Tokyo or a deadline at work keeps you glued to your chair for hours. Blood starts to pool in your lower body and forms a clot. When it gets big enough to act as a stopper in the vein or artery, the area around it will start to hurt and swell. Smokers and women who take the Pill have a higher risk of developing clots.
The fix Resist the urge to massage the area or to walk it off. If the clot breaks free, it can travel through your veins up to your lungs and cut off your oxygen supply. Instead, see your doctor, who will do a CT scan or ultrasound to look for DVT. If you have a clot, you'll need to take blood thinners--sometimes for up to a year--to dissolve it, says Suzanne Steinbaum, M.D., director of women and heart disease at the Heart and Vascular Institute at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
Friday, January 16, 2009
21 Look-Great Shortcuts
Expert tips, tricks, and products - most under $10 - to save you 50+ valuable minutes, morning and night.
Maybe you were having a dream about George Clooney that continued, thrillingly, well past the trilling of your alarm clock. Or perhaps your kids begged you to make homemade pancakes (which left you with three minutes to get the flour out of your hair, and no time for concealer).
When your day feels like a mad dash instead of a walk in the park, these tweaks to your morning routine, shower, and bedtime prep can help you at least appear to have your life under control. If you've ever wished you could squeeze a few more minutes out of your busy day, now you can.
Morning-Rush Makeover
Yikes! You overslept, and now you have to get ready and out the door at warp speed. These tips eliminate almost an hour of prep time — and you'll still emerge looking fresh and pulled together.
1-Instead of: A time-consuming shower
Speedy solution: Splash cold water or spray a hydrating mist on your face to energize your skin. Store the mist in the fridge, or quickly run it under the tap; it will feel more invigorating as it hits your complexion. "Cold water instantly tones and tightens your skin," says Ann Marie Cilmi, director of education and development at Bliss. Try The Body Shop Vitamin C Energizing Face Spritz. Minutes saved: 10
2-Instead of: Multistep skin prep
Speedy solution: Jump right to moisturizing. Skip cleanser and toner, and give yourself more even-toned, hydrated, and protected skin by slathering on a tinted moisturizer with SPF. "Go over any discolored areas a second time," says Blair Patterson, a global makeup artist for Estée Lauder. You can also add another layer to cheekbones to help contour the face when it's puffy from sleep. Try CoverGirl Aqua Smoothers Tinted Moisture SPF 15. Minutes saved: 5
3-Instead of: Elaborate eye makeup
Speedy solution: Stick with three express moves. Tame brows, apply highlighter, and slick on black mascara. You can quickly smooth unruly brows using a brow gel or a pencil-and-comb combo such as Prestige Browliner. Then add a pop of white or bone shimmer shadow just below the browbone. "It draws attention upward and gives your face a more awake, lifted look," says Ramy Gafny, a New York City celebrity makeup artist. Finish by applying black mascara from the base to the tips of lashes to give them maximum length. Minutes saved: 10
4-Instead of: Blush and lipstick and shadow
Speedy solution: Choose one triple-duty product. A creamy blush that also works on lips and lids is ideal. Whatever you do, don't skip blush; makeup artists say it's the most underrated beauty product for waking up the face. Just smile and use the heat of your fingers to dab color on the rounds of your cheeks and across your lips, suggests Marcia Kilgore, creator of Soap & Glory. Use the same shade to brighten lids. Try E.L.F. All Over Color Stick in Persimmon. Minutes saved: 5
5-Instead of: A styling marathon
Speedy solution: Stash your blow-dryer and brush, and try some quick "detailing." Pull slept-on hair back into the Tonytail, a faux-hair ponytail holder that creates the illusion your strands have been expertly wrapped around the base of the pony. Or give a cropped style instant polish by smoothing out bangs and short layers with one of the new purse-size flattening irons. "It's easier to control than a full-size version and costs less," says Joelle Dunrovich, a hairstylist at Rita Hazan Salon in New York City. Try Slik Stik Mini. Minutes saved: 20-plus
The Ultimate Time Saver
Surprise! It's beauty sleep. You may be off in dreamland, but your skin is working overtime. "Inflammation is down and stress hormones reach their lowest levels by the middle of the night," says Amy Wechsler, M.D., a New York City dermatologist. This relaxed state can improve breakouts, fine lines, dark circles — the works. Here's how to boost your looks while your body rests.
1-Take years off your face: "Nothing works better at night to prevent and correct wrinkles than a topical retinoid," says Doris J. Day, M.D., clinical assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Medical Center. With regular use, this potent antiaging ingredient helps speed cell turnover and ratchet up collagen production, so you awake with smoother, more radiant skin. If a prescription retinoid is too harsh for your skin, try retinol, a gentler, over-the-counter cousin. (We like Roc Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream.) Since they both can dry out skin, layer a hydrating lotion or cream over serums containing either ingredient (but wait five minutes to let the active ingredient sink in).
2-Slough off the rough spots: Slather on a body cream laced with glycolic acid before bed to loosen dead skin. Try Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Triple Smoothing Body Lotion. Apply a second layer to extra-dry areas like feet, elbows, and hands. In the morning, use an exfoliating body wash to send those loosened cells down the shower drain.
3-Reduce puffiness: The flip side of all the good things that happen to your skin while you sleep? "Lying flat for hours causes fluid to accumulate in your face, especially around your eyes," says Dr. Wechsler. Minimize puffiness by keeping your head elevated on at least two pillows and skipping salty foods like sushi with soy sauce for dinner.
4-Get softer, shinier hair: Deep conditioning can rescue hair that lacks shine or softness. Still, most women don't have the time to sit still while a messy, goopy formula sinks into strands. Instead, look for hair masks meant for nighttime use. Try John Frieda Frizz-Ease Crème Serum Overnight Repair Formula, which is formulated to go on dry hair, so you won't have to sleep with a wet head. It's also lightweight enough not to leave residue on your pillow.
5-"Work" on your tan: Applying self-tanner before bed lets you wake up looking sun kissed and sidesteps the issue of its potentially unappealing scent. Most self-tanners contain DHA, which gives off the odor of uric acid for hours as the color develops. But if you apply it before bed, the smell will be gone by morning, explains Cilmi. (Just be sure the product no longer feels tacky when you hit the sheets.) An alternative: Try lavender-infused Olay Touch of Sun Overnight.
Makeup Multitaskers
Five cosmetic overachievers that save you time — and purse space — by offering at least three beauty benefits in one small package.
Maybe you were having a dream about George Clooney that continued, thrillingly, well past the trilling of your alarm clock. Or perhaps your kids begged you to make homemade pancakes (which left you with three minutes to get the flour out of your hair, and no time for concealer).
When your day feels like a mad dash instead of a walk in the park, these tweaks to your morning routine, shower, and bedtime prep can help you at least appear to have your life under control. If you've ever wished you could squeeze a few more minutes out of your busy day, now you can.
Morning-Rush Makeover
Yikes! You overslept, and now you have to get ready and out the door at warp speed. These tips eliminate almost an hour of prep time — and you'll still emerge looking fresh and pulled together.
1-Instead of: A time-consuming shower
Speedy solution: Splash cold water or spray a hydrating mist on your face to energize your skin. Store the mist in the fridge, or quickly run it under the tap; it will feel more invigorating as it hits your complexion. "Cold water instantly tones and tightens your skin," says Ann Marie Cilmi, director of education and development at Bliss. Try The Body Shop Vitamin C Energizing Face Spritz. Minutes saved: 10
2-Instead of: Multistep skin prep
Speedy solution: Jump right to moisturizing. Skip cleanser and toner, and give yourself more even-toned, hydrated, and protected skin by slathering on a tinted moisturizer with SPF. "Go over any discolored areas a second time," says Blair Patterson, a global makeup artist for Estée Lauder. You can also add another layer to cheekbones to help contour the face when it's puffy from sleep. Try CoverGirl Aqua Smoothers Tinted Moisture SPF 15. Minutes saved: 5
3-Instead of: Elaborate eye makeup
Speedy solution: Stick with three express moves. Tame brows, apply highlighter, and slick on black mascara. You can quickly smooth unruly brows using a brow gel or a pencil-and-comb combo such as Prestige Browliner. Then add a pop of white or bone shimmer shadow just below the browbone. "It draws attention upward and gives your face a more awake, lifted look," says Ramy Gafny, a New York City celebrity makeup artist. Finish by applying black mascara from the base to the tips of lashes to give them maximum length. Minutes saved: 10
4-Instead of: Blush and lipstick and shadow
Speedy solution: Choose one triple-duty product. A creamy blush that also works on lips and lids is ideal. Whatever you do, don't skip blush; makeup artists say it's the most underrated beauty product for waking up the face. Just smile and use the heat of your fingers to dab color on the rounds of your cheeks and across your lips, suggests Marcia Kilgore, creator of Soap & Glory. Use the same shade to brighten lids. Try E.L.F. All Over Color Stick in Persimmon. Minutes saved: 5
5-Instead of: A styling marathon
Speedy solution: Stash your blow-dryer and brush, and try some quick "detailing." Pull slept-on hair back into the Tonytail, a faux-hair ponytail holder that creates the illusion your strands have been expertly wrapped around the base of the pony. Or give a cropped style instant polish by smoothing out bangs and short layers with one of the new purse-size flattening irons. "It's easier to control than a full-size version and costs less," says Joelle Dunrovich, a hairstylist at Rita Hazan Salon in New York City. Try Slik Stik Mini. Minutes saved: 20-plus
The Ultimate Time Saver
Surprise! It's beauty sleep. You may be off in dreamland, but your skin is working overtime. "Inflammation is down and stress hormones reach their lowest levels by the middle of the night," says Amy Wechsler, M.D., a New York City dermatologist. This relaxed state can improve breakouts, fine lines, dark circles — the works. Here's how to boost your looks while your body rests.
1-Take years off your face: "Nothing works better at night to prevent and correct wrinkles than a topical retinoid," says Doris J. Day, M.D., clinical assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Medical Center. With regular use, this potent antiaging ingredient helps speed cell turnover and ratchet up collagen production, so you awake with smoother, more radiant skin. If a prescription retinoid is too harsh for your skin, try retinol, a gentler, over-the-counter cousin. (We like Roc Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream.) Since they both can dry out skin, layer a hydrating lotion or cream over serums containing either ingredient (but wait five minutes to let the active ingredient sink in).
2-Slough off the rough spots: Slather on a body cream laced with glycolic acid before bed to loosen dead skin. Try Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Triple Smoothing Body Lotion. Apply a second layer to extra-dry areas like feet, elbows, and hands. In the morning, use an exfoliating body wash to send those loosened cells down the shower drain.
3-Reduce puffiness: The flip side of all the good things that happen to your skin while you sleep? "Lying flat for hours causes fluid to accumulate in your face, especially around your eyes," says Dr. Wechsler. Minimize puffiness by keeping your head elevated on at least two pillows and skipping salty foods like sushi with soy sauce for dinner.
4-Get softer, shinier hair: Deep conditioning can rescue hair that lacks shine or softness. Still, most women don't have the time to sit still while a messy, goopy formula sinks into strands. Instead, look for hair masks meant for nighttime use. Try John Frieda Frizz-Ease Crème Serum Overnight Repair Formula, which is formulated to go on dry hair, so you won't have to sleep with a wet head. It's also lightweight enough not to leave residue on your pillow.
5-"Work" on your tan: Applying self-tanner before bed lets you wake up looking sun kissed and sidesteps the issue of its potentially unappealing scent. Most self-tanners contain DHA, which gives off the odor of uric acid for hours as the color develops. But if you apply it before bed, the smell will be gone by morning, explains Cilmi. (Just be sure the product no longer feels tacky when you hit the sheets.) An alternative: Try lavender-infused Olay Touch of Sun Overnight.
Makeup Multitaskers
Five cosmetic overachievers that save you time — and purse space — by offering at least three beauty benefits in one small package.
- Foundation + makeup brush + sun protection = Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Liquid Makeup SPF 20
- Nail file + cuticle softener + cuticle pusher = 5 Second 3-in-1 Manicure Pen
- Concealer + wrinkle smoother + sun protection = L'Oréal Paris Visible Lift Line-Minimizing & Tone-Enhancing Concealer SPF 20
- Eyebrow tamer + skin softener + blister blocker + more = Bliss Problem Salved 20-in-1 Wonder Balm Lip gloss + tooth whitener + breath freshener = Tarte Enbrightenmint BriteSmile Whitener & Tarte Lipgloss
Speedier Showering
Could you get in and out any faster — and still emerge with clean, soft skin and hair, and a refreshed spirit? Absolutely, say the experts. Here are six ways to make your time under the spray deliver more.
1. Simplify sudsing: "Just focus shampoo on the roots instead of lathering up the whole head," suggests Cilmi. "As the shampoo slides down your hair shaft during the rinse, the rest of your hair will get clean." Quickly squeeze out the excess water before you put in conditioner to prevent diluting the moisturizing ingredients. Then you can leave conditioner in for less time.
2. Get a brighter smile: Stash an extra toothbrush and toothpaste in your shower caddy. "I'm a firm believer that brushing my teeth in the shower saves time," says Los Angeles aesthetician Angela Nice. Makeup artist Ramy Gafny swears by Arm & Hammer Whitening Booster, a peroxide gel you put on top of toothpaste to brighten teeth in a hurry.
3. Steam-clean your complexion: Slap on a hydrating facial mask to deep-clean your skin. The treatment ingredients will penetrate further when they work in conjunction with the shower's pore-opening steam. Try Clean & Clear Soft In-Shower Facial, and rinse after one minute.
4. Eliminate stubble: "Never shave dry," says Dr. Day. Instead, use a moisturizing body wash in conjunction with your razor to get your skin clean, soft, and stubble-free. Try Weleda Sea Buckthorn Creamy Body Wash. If you wax, lather up with an exfoliating wash that will help reduce ingrown hairs made worse by waxing. Try: Johnson's Softwash Gentle Exfoliating 24 Hour Moisturizing Wash. New Veet In Shower Hair Removal Cream features a water-resistant formula that stays put under the spray. After two minutes, whisk the depilatory cream away with the accompanying sponge.
5. Clear your cuticles: Once your hands have been in the water for a couple of minutes, use a washcloth to gently push back cuticles. Doing this every time you shower will prevent cuticle buildup, so your nails look clean and well cared for, even when you don't have time for regular manicures.
6. Smooth your soles: Sally Hansen La Cross Foot Smoothing Disk is a palm-size, easy-to-grasp disk with exfoliating ridges that remove dead skin as you slide it back and forth across your feet. For spa-worthy results, wait until the end of your shower, when the warm water makes skin easier to slough off. If you shower in a tub, plug the drain and sprinkle in some bath salts for an instantly soothing foot soak that will also help soften any rough spots on your soles.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Chemical peels and acne
About Chemical Peels
A chemical peel, also known as chemexfoliation or derma-peeling, is a popular and effective non-surgical treatment for both active acne and acne scarring.
In a chemical peel, a chemical mixture is applied to the skin which removes the damaged outer layers to reveal the clearer, smoother, tighter, and more radiant skin underneath.
Types of Chemical Peels
There are three types of chemical peels: light peels (also called superficial peels), medium peels, and deep peels, which penetrate the skin to different levels.
There are inexpensive over-the-counter chemical peel products available that can be used at home to provide a very light peel. Some salons, spas, and skin care clinics can provide a professional light or medium peel. A deep chemical peel should be done only in a doctor's office or hospital, although some states do allow non-physicians to perform this procedure.
A light or medium peel is often sufficient for smoothing skin that has been damaged by acne.
For best results, especially in severe acne cases, find a licensed physician who has training and experience in skin resurfacing.
Cost
Over-the-counter chemical peels vary in price, but some can be obtained for under $30.
Professional peels vary in cost based on the type and depth of the peel. Costs vary from under $100 for a light peel to thousands of dollars for a deep peel performed by a physician.
What to Expect
A chemical peel is not painful, but you may experience tingling or a mild stinging sensation during the treatment. The procedure typically takes between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on your skin's specific needs. Some patients will require a series of peels to achieve the optimal results.
After the peel, your may notice some redness to your skin for a few days. You may also experience some dryness or flaking, which can be treated with a moisturizer. Do not rub or scratch the skin until it heals completely, or scarring may result. You should notice some healing after the first three to six days. The healing process is typically not painful.
Makeup should not be worn immediately after a facial peel, except on the eyes and lips. Ask your practitioner about what products should (and should not) be used on your skin immediately after the peel, and how long you should wait before resuming use of your regular cosmetics and skin products.
Avoid heavy sunlight and tanning beds for at least two weeks after the peel.
Your practitioner should provide you with a comprehensive set of guidelines for caring for your skin after a peel. If you are using an over-the-counter product for a light peel, be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions very carefully.
Risks and Side Effects
A chemical peel is a very safe procedure, and complications are quite rare.
In some cases, a chemical peel can cause temporary or permanent discoloration of the skin, especially in women who are pregnant, women who take birth control pills, or people with a family history of abnormal pigmentation.
The procedure can also trigger cold sores or fever blisters in people who are susceptible to these kinds of sores.
You should not have a chemical peel if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
A chemical peel, also known as chemexfoliation or derma-peeling, is a popular and effective non-surgical treatment for both active acne and acne scarring.
In a chemical peel, a chemical mixture is applied to the skin which removes the damaged outer layers to reveal the clearer, smoother, tighter, and more radiant skin underneath.
Types of Chemical Peels
There are three types of chemical peels: light peels (also called superficial peels), medium peels, and deep peels, which penetrate the skin to different levels.
There are inexpensive over-the-counter chemical peel products available that can be used at home to provide a very light peel. Some salons, spas, and skin care clinics can provide a professional light or medium peel. A deep chemical peel should be done only in a doctor's office or hospital, although some states do allow non-physicians to perform this procedure.
A light or medium peel is often sufficient for smoothing skin that has been damaged by acne.
For best results, especially in severe acne cases, find a licensed physician who has training and experience in skin resurfacing.
Cost
Over-the-counter chemical peels vary in price, but some can be obtained for under $30.
Professional peels vary in cost based on the type and depth of the peel. Costs vary from under $100 for a light peel to thousands of dollars for a deep peel performed by a physician.
What to Expect
A chemical peel is not painful, but you may experience tingling or a mild stinging sensation during the treatment. The procedure typically takes between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on your skin's specific needs. Some patients will require a series of peels to achieve the optimal results.
After the peel, your may notice some redness to your skin for a few days. You may also experience some dryness or flaking, which can be treated with a moisturizer. Do not rub or scratch the skin until it heals completely, or scarring may result. You should notice some healing after the first three to six days. The healing process is typically not painful.
Makeup should not be worn immediately after a facial peel, except on the eyes and lips. Ask your practitioner about what products should (and should not) be used on your skin immediately after the peel, and how long you should wait before resuming use of your regular cosmetics and skin products.
Avoid heavy sunlight and tanning beds for at least two weeks after the peel.
Your practitioner should provide you with a comprehensive set of guidelines for caring for your skin after a peel. If you are using an over-the-counter product for a light peel, be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions very carefully.
Risks and Side Effects
A chemical peel is a very safe procedure, and complications are quite rare.
In some cases, a chemical peel can cause temporary or permanent discoloration of the skin, especially in women who are pregnant, women who take birth control pills, or people with a family history of abnormal pigmentation.
The procedure can also trigger cold sores or fever blisters in people who are susceptible to these kinds of sores.
You should not have a chemical peel if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
5 makeup tips for a brunette
The purpose of makeup is to accentuate your features without revealing the effort that went into making your face look flawless. By following makeup tips that work best with your hair color, you will be sure to emphasize your natural beauty. The right makeup will disguise flaws and draw attention to your best features. In order to accomplish these goals, it is important to wear makeup that is appropriate for your hair coloring. Makeup designed for blondes or redheads can make brunettes look washed out, while the correct tones will complement your hair’s rich color. The following tips will help ensure that you always look your best.
1. Throw out the pink lipstick.
Rich colors such as terracotta, cinnamon, and spicy red look better on those with dark hair as opposed to light colors. Pale, frosty pink lipstick colors can be especially unflattering and tend to make brunettes look washed out. Slightly darker colors bring out the features and draw emphasis to the lips. If you are feeling adventurous, a darker pink can be used on the lips, but try adding emphasis to the eyes in order to avoid looking dull and lifeless.
2. Go bronze.
Just as pink lip color can make brunettes look dreary, so can pale cheek colors. A good option for brunettes is to use a little gel or powder bronzer on the cheek area. Bronzer tends to look more natural and adds a subtle highlight to the cheekbones, lending a beautiful contour to your face. Be careful not to apply too much in order to avoid creating an unflattering sheen.
If you’re feeling daring, try the dark cheeks sported by many young celebs today. After applying a bronzer to your cheeks and the area just under the fullest part of your cheekbones, apply a small amount of coral or peach blush to the fullest part of your cheek. Next, take a small amount of pale shimmer and apply it to the highest part of the cheekbone and blend upwards towards the temples. If you want to try this look, remember to keep your lips natural and your eyes subdued in order to prevent overpowering your face with makeup.
3. Emphasize the eyes.
Another excellent makeup option for brunettes is to create dramatic eyes while leaving the rest of the face fairly natural. Brunettes with blue eyes should remember to use warm, rich eye shadows if you want a more natural look. Brunettes with brown eyes can try a more daring look by choosing colors that are blue or even a pale lilac. These light colors will make brown eyes stand out and appear even richer. If your skin tone is light, stick with dark brown mascara in order to avoid a harsh severe look. Those with dark skin tones and dark eyes should use black or dark blue mascara in order to keep eyelashes prominent.
4. Choose the right foundation.
For women of all hair colors, selecting the right color foundation is vital to looking good. The wrong color foundation can make skin look washed out or unhealthy. To choose the best foundation, ask for a consultation at the makeup counter of your local department store. Makeup artists should be skilled at selecting a good foundation to match your skin tone and can provide feedback on which brands and colors work best on you. Test the makeup on your face and check the match in natural light to be sure that it blends properly. The right makeup should even out skin tone and highlight the positive qualities of your completion. Wearing foundation should never feel like wearing a mask. If it feels too thick, try switching to a more suitable brand.
5. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
Makeup tips can offer general guidelines, but you are the best judge of what looks good on you. Trying new things is the best way to see what works best and what does not. There are some important things to remember when experimenting with makeup. Don’t try out a new look on the night of a big event, since you can’t be sure that your makeover will work. Leave experiments for days when you have time to play around with your appearance. Also, if you experience any irritation after trying a different type of makeup, stop using it immediately and thoroughly cleanse the area. Consult a dermatologist if the irritation does not diminish after a couple of days.
Remember, makeup should accentuate the positive. The finest look is one that brings out your best features and makes you feel beautiful. If you have brunette hair, you can look natural yet polished by using warm, rich makeup colors that emphasize your features and draw attention to the beautiful color of your hair.
1. Throw out the pink lipstick.
Rich colors such as terracotta, cinnamon, and spicy red look better on those with dark hair as opposed to light colors. Pale, frosty pink lipstick colors can be especially unflattering and tend to make brunettes look washed out. Slightly darker colors bring out the features and draw emphasis to the lips. If you are feeling adventurous, a darker pink can be used on the lips, but try adding emphasis to the eyes in order to avoid looking dull and lifeless.
2. Go bronze.
Just as pink lip color can make brunettes look dreary, so can pale cheek colors. A good option for brunettes is to use a little gel or powder bronzer on the cheek area. Bronzer tends to look more natural and adds a subtle highlight to the cheekbones, lending a beautiful contour to your face. Be careful not to apply too much in order to avoid creating an unflattering sheen.
If you’re feeling daring, try the dark cheeks sported by many young celebs today. After applying a bronzer to your cheeks and the area just under the fullest part of your cheekbones, apply a small amount of coral or peach blush to the fullest part of your cheek. Next, take a small amount of pale shimmer and apply it to the highest part of the cheekbone and blend upwards towards the temples. If you want to try this look, remember to keep your lips natural and your eyes subdued in order to prevent overpowering your face with makeup.
3. Emphasize the eyes.
Another excellent makeup option for brunettes is to create dramatic eyes while leaving the rest of the face fairly natural. Brunettes with blue eyes should remember to use warm, rich eye shadows if you want a more natural look. Brunettes with brown eyes can try a more daring look by choosing colors that are blue or even a pale lilac. These light colors will make brown eyes stand out and appear even richer. If your skin tone is light, stick with dark brown mascara in order to avoid a harsh severe look. Those with dark skin tones and dark eyes should use black or dark blue mascara in order to keep eyelashes prominent.
4. Choose the right foundation.
For women of all hair colors, selecting the right color foundation is vital to looking good. The wrong color foundation can make skin look washed out or unhealthy. To choose the best foundation, ask for a consultation at the makeup counter of your local department store. Makeup artists should be skilled at selecting a good foundation to match your skin tone and can provide feedback on which brands and colors work best on you. Test the makeup on your face and check the match in natural light to be sure that it blends properly. The right makeup should even out skin tone and highlight the positive qualities of your completion. Wearing foundation should never feel like wearing a mask. If it feels too thick, try switching to a more suitable brand.
5. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
Makeup tips can offer general guidelines, but you are the best judge of what looks good on you. Trying new things is the best way to see what works best and what does not. There are some important things to remember when experimenting with makeup. Don’t try out a new look on the night of a big event, since you can’t be sure that your makeover will work. Leave experiments for days when you have time to play around with your appearance. Also, if you experience any irritation after trying a different type of makeup, stop using it immediately and thoroughly cleanse the area. Consult a dermatologist if the irritation does not diminish after a couple of days.
Remember, makeup should accentuate the positive. The finest look is one that brings out your best features and makes you feel beautiful. If you have brunette hair, you can look natural yet polished by using warm, rich makeup colors that emphasize your features and draw attention to the beautiful color of your hair.
Why horse shampoo is so popular for humans
People have been using horse shampoo for decades, especially in small cow towns where money can be tight, and it is easily accessible. A very popular horse shampoo that is used most often is Mane-N- Tail. Once everyone found out how beautiful the horse shampoo made your hair look, and how big the bottles were for their money other people started using it to. They found out that it is better than most name brand shampoos made for humans. The horse shampoo is just as wonderful for your hair as all of the new products that the shampoo manufacturers were coming out with.
Users of horse shampoos started seeing how shiny and healthy their hair was looking, and how it seemed that the horse shampoo was even making their hair thicker. A lot of people thought that the horse shampoo was even helping their hair grow faster. The reason for this is because the horse shampoo made their hair stronger and healthier which would result in less hair breakage and shedding. Horse shampoo will also aid in split ends, and when you have less split ends your hair automatically looks longer, because your hair is not breaking off at the weak split ends.
This is also a good shampoo for those who over process their hair with bleaching, coloring, and perming, mainly because the horse shampoo will strengthen their hair from breakage and shedding. It seems to slow down the process of this happening.
Another good aspect of horse shampoo is; if you suffer from allergies of fragrances and other types of additives than maybe you should try Mane-N-Tail horse shampoo. Horse shampoos contain less irritants and additives that would cause allergies to act up. This is because it needs to be safe for animals so the ingredients are mild and gentle.
Horse shampoo is formulated to be gentle and non-irritating to the skin. It contains high lathering cleansing ingredients which are packed with moisturizers and emollients. Its enriched protein formula provides down to the skin cleansing action which is good for your scalp and hair.
The conditioner that goes with the horse shampoo is a very good product too; it conditions and fortifies your hair and scalp for a renewed, lustrous, and a healthy look while achieving longer, healthier hair. The protein enriched formula works on the hair shaft itself which helps prevent hair from breaking and ends from splitting while the natural oils in the conditioner conditions and nourishes the hair and scalp. There is even a leave in conditioner that can be bought in the same section as you find the horse shampoo. The moisturizers in the leave in conditioners help aid in the damage and drying effects that is caused by the sun and wind.
You can easily purchase Mane-N-Tail horse shampoos, conditioners, and other products at K-mart, Wal-mart, some drugstores, and grocery stores. The prices are very reasonable, and you will get more for your money. You can even purchase these products online at GiGi’s beauty supply (there are other online stores also). GiGi’s beauty supplies carries a full line of Mane-N-Tail horse shampoo and products for the hair which ranges in price from $3.99- $6.99 per product, and you get a generous amount for your money.
Try it and see for yourself that horse shampoo works as good for humans as it does for horses.
Users of horse shampoos started seeing how shiny and healthy their hair was looking, and how it seemed that the horse shampoo was even making their hair thicker. A lot of people thought that the horse shampoo was even helping their hair grow faster. The reason for this is because the horse shampoo made their hair stronger and healthier which would result in less hair breakage and shedding. Horse shampoo will also aid in split ends, and when you have less split ends your hair automatically looks longer, because your hair is not breaking off at the weak split ends.
This is also a good shampoo for those who over process their hair with bleaching, coloring, and perming, mainly because the horse shampoo will strengthen their hair from breakage and shedding. It seems to slow down the process of this happening.
Another good aspect of horse shampoo is; if you suffer from allergies of fragrances and other types of additives than maybe you should try Mane-N-Tail horse shampoo. Horse shampoos contain less irritants and additives that would cause allergies to act up. This is because it needs to be safe for animals so the ingredients are mild and gentle.
Horse shampoo is formulated to be gentle and non-irritating to the skin. It contains high lathering cleansing ingredients which are packed with moisturizers and emollients. Its enriched protein formula provides down to the skin cleansing action which is good for your scalp and hair.
The conditioner that goes with the horse shampoo is a very good product too; it conditions and fortifies your hair and scalp for a renewed, lustrous, and a healthy look while achieving longer, healthier hair. The protein enriched formula works on the hair shaft itself which helps prevent hair from breaking and ends from splitting while the natural oils in the conditioner conditions and nourishes the hair and scalp. There is even a leave in conditioner that can be bought in the same section as you find the horse shampoo. The moisturizers in the leave in conditioners help aid in the damage and drying effects that is caused by the sun and wind.
You can easily purchase Mane-N-Tail horse shampoos, conditioners, and other products at K-mart, Wal-mart, some drugstores, and grocery stores. The prices are very reasonable, and you will get more for your money. You can even purchase these products online at GiGi’s beauty supply (there are other online stores also). GiGi’s beauty supplies carries a full line of Mane-N-Tail horse shampoo and products for the hair which ranges in price from $3.99- $6.99 per product, and you get a generous amount for your money.
Try it and see for yourself that horse shampoo works as good for humans as it does for horses.
How diet affects your skin
There are thousands of facial creams available on the market, each promising younger, smoother, more vibrant skin. And, while expensive creams and lotions can help soften the skin’s surface, the basic foundation of healthy skin is good nutrition. Nothing else can substitute for eating right in terms of overall health, and in particular, the tone and texture of a person’s skin.
One of the most important elements to achieving and maintaining healthy skin is drinking lots of water. Women are advised to drink at least eight glasses of water each day for a variety of reasons, and this practice is very beneficial to the skin. Water actually hydrates the cells of the skin, eliminating waste products, which in turn prevents constipation. This gives skin new softness and radiance. Additionally, keeping your skin hydrated will help to diminish lines and wrinkles, and eliminate pimples and blackheads.
Certain vitamins and minerals, specifically vitamins A, C and E, are beneficial to skin as well. Iron can also contribute to healthy skin tone. People with vitamin deficiencies tend to have skin that is dry and that does not heal properly. Many people tend to have particularly dry skin in the winter when harsh, cold air combines with a lack of sunshine, which provides natural vitamin C. Very dry skin, especially on the hands and feet can crack and even bleed.
B vitamins are particularly helpful. B1 keeps circulation normal, which in turn contributes to healthy skin. B2 can actually eliminate brown aging spots on the skin, while B6 helps prevent eczema. Brewer’s yeast is a natural source of B vitamins. Ingest two tablespoons of dried brewer’s yeast each day for two weeks, and you will see a noticeable difference in skin tone.
Fiber is also important to maintaining healthy skin. As with water, eating fiber prevents constipation, which can be detrimental to skin health. To get more fiber, consider eating more apples and include whole grains in your diet. Simply changing from white rice to brown rice will increase fiber intake. Add beans to the rice and you have a high fiber, low fat main course. Other good sources of fiber are cauliflower and broccoli. Look for snacks that are high in fiber such as nuts, dates, figs, raisins, and seeds.
Eating fish can also be very beneficial to your complexion. The oils in fish will actually help to feed moisture to your skin. It is suggested that at least one meal per day include some type of fish, either fresh or canned. Even canned tuna qualifies in this department!
Flaxseeds are another readily available food source that can help maintain healthy skin. Ground up, flaxseeds contain what is known as omega-three fatty acids, which are highly beneficial to skin health. Some special diets suggest sprinkling flaxseed over your cereal or adding to yogurt.
Don’t forget dairy products, especially milk, and make sure to include vegetable oils in your diet along with yogurts. Always avoid junk food as much as possible. Snacks such as candy, chips, crackers, cookies, and cakes, are high in fat and calories, and can also be loaded with salt which has a counter-effect to drinking water.
Combining good nutrition with a sensible exercise program and plenty of rest can make an enormous difference in overall skin health. Fancy creams can make you feel better, but the essentials of good skin care come down to some very elemental basics that are so simple, anyone can do them. Just remember, drink lots of water! You won’t be sorry.
One of the most important elements to achieving and maintaining healthy skin is drinking lots of water. Women are advised to drink at least eight glasses of water each day for a variety of reasons, and this practice is very beneficial to the skin. Water actually hydrates the cells of the skin, eliminating waste products, which in turn prevents constipation. This gives skin new softness and radiance. Additionally, keeping your skin hydrated will help to diminish lines and wrinkles, and eliminate pimples and blackheads.
Certain vitamins and minerals, specifically vitamins A, C and E, are beneficial to skin as well. Iron can also contribute to healthy skin tone. People with vitamin deficiencies tend to have skin that is dry and that does not heal properly. Many people tend to have particularly dry skin in the winter when harsh, cold air combines with a lack of sunshine, which provides natural vitamin C. Very dry skin, especially on the hands and feet can crack and even bleed.
B vitamins are particularly helpful. B1 keeps circulation normal, which in turn contributes to healthy skin. B2 can actually eliminate brown aging spots on the skin, while B6 helps prevent eczema. Brewer’s yeast is a natural source of B vitamins. Ingest two tablespoons of dried brewer’s yeast each day for two weeks, and you will see a noticeable difference in skin tone.
Fiber is also important to maintaining healthy skin. As with water, eating fiber prevents constipation, which can be detrimental to skin health. To get more fiber, consider eating more apples and include whole grains in your diet. Simply changing from white rice to brown rice will increase fiber intake. Add beans to the rice and you have a high fiber, low fat main course. Other good sources of fiber are cauliflower and broccoli. Look for snacks that are high in fiber such as nuts, dates, figs, raisins, and seeds.
Eating fish can also be very beneficial to your complexion. The oils in fish will actually help to feed moisture to your skin. It is suggested that at least one meal per day include some type of fish, either fresh or canned. Even canned tuna qualifies in this department!
Flaxseeds are another readily available food source that can help maintain healthy skin. Ground up, flaxseeds contain what is known as omega-three fatty acids, which are highly beneficial to skin health. Some special diets suggest sprinkling flaxseed over your cereal or adding to yogurt.
Don’t forget dairy products, especially milk, and make sure to include vegetable oils in your diet along with yogurts. Always avoid junk food as much as possible. Snacks such as candy, chips, crackers, cookies, and cakes, are high in fat and calories, and can also be loaded with salt which has a counter-effect to drinking water.
Combining good nutrition with a sensible exercise program and plenty of rest can make an enormous difference in overall skin health. Fancy creams can make you feel better, but the essentials of good skin care come down to some very elemental basics that are so simple, anyone can do them. Just remember, drink lots of water! You won’t be sorry.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
How to Remove the Nasolabial Or Nasal Labial Folds
Nose to mouth lines or folds are one of the earliest signs of facial aging that make a person feel that their face no longer looks fresh and young. These lines, also called the nasal labial fold or nasolabial fold, run from the corner of the nostril of the nose down to the corner of the mouth and begin to show usually in our thirties or forties. Smiling makes these lines look deeper. As we age, the cheek skin falls down or drapes over the nasal labial line to create a fold, the nasal labial or nasolabial fold and creates a tired look to the face.
What causes Nose to Mouth Lines or Folds?
A youthful face is a full face with plump cheeks. A structure called the malar fat pad is attached to our cheek bones high in the face and gives a plump or high cheek bone appearance. As we age our facial skin and supportive structures become lax and the malar or cheek fat pad and cheek skin sag downward toward the mouth and nose.
Our normal smile muscles are attached to the corner of our mouth. When we smile the pull of the smile muscle creates a line or depression which runs from the nose to the corner of the mouth. This natural line is called the nasal labial or nasolabial line. Repeated smiling and facial expression deepen this line throughout life.
As our aging skin and cheek or malar fat pad sag downward, the nasal labial line blocks the downward sag, the loose skin and cheek fat pad fall over the nasal labial line and create a fold of skin-the nasal labial fold or nose to mouth line or fold.
How to Remove or Correct Nose to Mouth Lines
These lines are normal. Most people only seek correction after the lines have deepened because of the sagging cheek and the formation of the nasal labial or nasolabial fold. This usually occurs in our late thirties or forties. There are both surgical and non-surgical methods to correct the nasal labial or nasolabial fold.
Surgical Correction of Nose to Mouth Lines or Folds
Surgical correction is done with either a face lift, cheek lift, or mid-face lift. During these procedures the surgeon detaches the sagging skin and cheek tissue from the face through a surgical incision. The loosened skin and cheek fat pad are then pulled upward and repositioned to a more youthful position higher on the face over the cheek bone. Properly performed face or cheek lift by an experienced skilled surgeon can create a beautiful result.
Non-surgical Correction of Nose to Mouth Lines or Folds
• Soft tissue Filler Injections-The most common and most effective non-surgical method is to inject soft tissue filler into the nasal labial fold line. The soft tissue fillers are injectable compounds such as Restalyn™, Juvederm™, Perlane™, Radiesse™, and Sculptra™ to name a few. This technique plumps and camouflages the line and makes the overlying fold less obvious. Fillers are biodegradable and do need to be repeated at 6 month to one year intervals.
• Midface and Cheek Volume Replacement-This technique also uses soft tissue fillers but they are used to plump the mid cheek area and the cheek bone area. The effect is to plump and lift the sagging cheek and pull the nasal labial fold higher. This technique is called the liquid facelift.
• Skin Tightening with Laser and Light Therapies-There are many new non-surgical skin tightening technologies available. All are based on the concept that if you can heat the deep layers of the skin to 60 degrees Centigrade, the collagen in the skin will shrink and the skin tightens. This deep skin heating has to be achieved while the surface of the skin is cooled, otherwise the skin could be injured. Commonly available machines are LuxIR Deep™, Thermage™, Refirme™, and Titan™ to name a few. The best results achieve only a 20% skin tightening, usually not enough to lift the cheek or lessen the nasal labial fold. Certainly not a non-surgical facelift as so often advertised.
• Subcutaneous (beneath the skin) laser skin tightening-New laser fiber technologies have recently been developed to melt fat and tighten skin. Today these technologies are used in laser assisted liposuction. These technologies are not yet safe to use in the mid face region. However, in the future, new subcutaneous laser skin tightening techniques may be developed to improve the nose to mouth lines.
Keep a Happy Face- Prevention is the Best Cure for Facial Aging
As in all areas of medicine, health, and anti-aging, prevention is the best cure! Wear sun block, eat healthy, exercise, do not smoke tobacco, do not drink excessive alcohol, and manage your stress. Follow these guidelines and you will have smile lines, not nasal labial folds.
What causes Nose to Mouth Lines or Folds?
A youthful face is a full face with plump cheeks. A structure called the malar fat pad is attached to our cheek bones high in the face and gives a plump or high cheek bone appearance. As we age our facial skin and supportive structures become lax and the malar or cheek fat pad and cheek skin sag downward toward the mouth and nose.
Our normal smile muscles are attached to the corner of our mouth. When we smile the pull of the smile muscle creates a line or depression which runs from the nose to the corner of the mouth. This natural line is called the nasal labial or nasolabial line. Repeated smiling and facial expression deepen this line throughout life.
As our aging skin and cheek or malar fat pad sag downward, the nasal labial line blocks the downward sag, the loose skin and cheek fat pad fall over the nasal labial line and create a fold of skin-the nasal labial fold or nose to mouth line or fold.
How to Remove or Correct Nose to Mouth Lines
These lines are normal. Most people only seek correction after the lines have deepened because of the sagging cheek and the formation of the nasal labial or nasolabial fold. This usually occurs in our late thirties or forties. There are both surgical and non-surgical methods to correct the nasal labial or nasolabial fold.
Surgical Correction of Nose to Mouth Lines or Folds
Surgical correction is done with either a face lift, cheek lift, or mid-face lift. During these procedures the surgeon detaches the sagging skin and cheek tissue from the face through a surgical incision. The loosened skin and cheek fat pad are then pulled upward and repositioned to a more youthful position higher on the face over the cheek bone. Properly performed face or cheek lift by an experienced skilled surgeon can create a beautiful result.
Non-surgical Correction of Nose to Mouth Lines or Folds
• Soft tissue Filler Injections-The most common and most effective non-surgical method is to inject soft tissue filler into the nasal labial fold line. The soft tissue fillers are injectable compounds such as Restalyn™, Juvederm™, Perlane™, Radiesse™, and Sculptra™ to name a few. This technique plumps and camouflages the line and makes the overlying fold less obvious. Fillers are biodegradable and do need to be repeated at 6 month to one year intervals.
• Midface and Cheek Volume Replacement-This technique also uses soft tissue fillers but they are used to plump the mid cheek area and the cheek bone area. The effect is to plump and lift the sagging cheek and pull the nasal labial fold higher. This technique is called the liquid facelift.
• Skin Tightening with Laser and Light Therapies-There are many new non-surgical skin tightening technologies available. All are based on the concept that if you can heat the deep layers of the skin to 60 degrees Centigrade, the collagen in the skin will shrink and the skin tightens. This deep skin heating has to be achieved while the surface of the skin is cooled, otherwise the skin could be injured. Commonly available machines are LuxIR Deep™, Thermage™, Refirme™, and Titan™ to name a few. The best results achieve only a 20% skin tightening, usually not enough to lift the cheek or lessen the nasal labial fold. Certainly not a non-surgical facelift as so often advertised.
• Subcutaneous (beneath the skin) laser skin tightening-New laser fiber technologies have recently been developed to melt fat and tighten skin. Today these technologies are used in laser assisted liposuction. These technologies are not yet safe to use in the mid face region. However, in the future, new subcutaneous laser skin tightening techniques may be developed to improve the nose to mouth lines.
Keep a Happy Face- Prevention is the Best Cure for Facial Aging
As in all areas of medicine, health, and anti-aging, prevention is the best cure! Wear sun block, eat healthy, exercise, do not smoke tobacco, do not drink excessive alcohol, and manage your stress. Follow these guidelines and you will have smile lines, not nasal labial folds.
Face Lift Exercises to Look Younger
Imagine getting a facelift without paying for surgery or having to go under a knife! Imagine getting rid of sagging muscles and puffy skin without spending a dime! Yeah, so, what's the catch, you ask. Nothing!
Face lift exercises do a much better job of rejuvenating your facial muscles than face lift surgery. Besides being prohibitively expensive, surgery is painful and its results are very transitory. Which is why people who go under the knife have to do it time and again to keep their young and supple look. But with the help of the following 5 facelift exercises, you can beat old age, wrinkles and sagging skin for a long time.
1.Pucker your lips as tight as you can, just as if you were going to whistle. Shut your eyes and force your lip to the front as though you were trying to reach some object in front of you. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Then, do the reverse. Open your eyes and mouth as wide as you can. Work at pulling all your muscles as far away from your mouth as possible. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Repeat the cycle five times.
2.Gently place a finger each under your eyes while looking down. Then, with the muscles of your lower lids, try to lift your fingers. Release and relax. Repeat.
3.Clench your teeth and purse your lips tightly. Force the corners of your mouth down towards the chin, so that all the muscles of the neck are under stress. Next, do the reverse. Raise the chin muscles and contract the corners of the mouth. Repeat.
4.Lie down on your back and rest your head on the ground. Slowly raise the head and bring your chin towards your chest. Hold for a count of ten. Lower your head and relax. Repeat.
5.Puff your cheeks and purse your lips tightly, just as if you were holding a mouthful of water. Slap your cheeks with your hands for a minute. This may sound like a punishment, but it does wonders for your skin because of the added blood supply.
For maximum benefit, round off your face lift exercises with a gentle face massage.
Face lift exercises do a much better job of rejuvenating your facial muscles than face lift surgery. Besides being prohibitively expensive, surgery is painful and its results are very transitory. Which is why people who go under the knife have to do it time and again to keep their young and supple look. But with the help of the following 5 facelift exercises, you can beat old age, wrinkles and sagging skin for a long time.
1.Pucker your lips as tight as you can, just as if you were going to whistle. Shut your eyes and force your lip to the front as though you were trying to reach some object in front of you. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Then, do the reverse. Open your eyes and mouth as wide as you can. Work at pulling all your muscles as far away from your mouth as possible. Hold this posture for 20 seconds. Relax. Repeat the cycle five times.
2.Gently place a finger each under your eyes while looking down. Then, with the muscles of your lower lids, try to lift your fingers. Release and relax. Repeat.
3.Clench your teeth and purse your lips tightly. Force the corners of your mouth down towards the chin, so that all the muscles of the neck are under stress. Next, do the reverse. Raise the chin muscles and contract the corners of the mouth. Repeat.
4.Lie down on your back and rest your head on the ground. Slowly raise the head and bring your chin towards your chest. Hold for a count of ten. Lower your head and relax. Repeat.
5.Puff your cheeks and purse your lips tightly, just as if you were holding a mouthful of water. Slap your cheeks with your hands for a minute. This may sound like a punishment, but it does wonders for your skin because of the added blood supply.
For maximum benefit, round off your face lift exercises with a gentle face massage.
Compare Night Skin Creams to Other Anti Wrinkle Creams
Looking ourselves in the mirror every night make us realize that we are not the safe that we were a few years ago and that we have to take care of our skin and body in order to improve our look and avoid skin deterioration. Sure we cant avoid aging, but we do can prevent the signs of aging with proper care.
To keep a healthy skin you need to follow a daily skin care routine, clean, tone and moisture your skin every day. But we also need to use a night anti wrinkle cream, when we sleep our body is relaxed and our skin absorbs easier the natural substances that it needs.
By using a night skin cream we can moisture our skin, regain our youthful appearance and fight the dangerous free radicals that cause skin aging.
There are several Night anti aging creams in the market like:
To keep a healthy skin you need to follow a daily skin care routine, clean, tone and moisture your skin every day. But we also need to use a night anti wrinkle cream, when we sleep our body is relaxed and our skin absorbs easier the natural substances that it needs.
By using a night skin cream we can moisture our skin, regain our youthful appearance and fight the dangerous free radicals that cause skin aging.
There are several Night anti aging creams in the market like:
- Barefoot Botanical Organic Night Cream
- Eselle Organic Night Cream
- Spiezia Organic Night cream
- Gren People Organic Night Cream
- Xtendlife.org Restorative Night formula
As you can see the best night creams contain natural ingredients, don't attempt to use skin creams with harsh chemicals and other artificial substances because you will hurt more your skin. Some of the organic ingredients that those creams include are Vitamin E and C which are effective anti oxidants. Shea Butter, Vitamin E and others.
One of the most promising night creams are the ones from Xtendlife.org made in New Zealand because they contain the best natural ingredients plus new breakthrough natural compounds that are usually expensive but you can get its benefits for little cost.
Some of the ingredients are:
- Functional keratin that increases the levels of collagen and elastin
- Coenzyme Q10, that is a powerful anti oxidant that destroys free radicals.
- Wakame Kelp, is a Japanese Algae that increases the levels of hyaluronic acid.
Those and many more are the ingredients that make effective anti wrinkle night creams, you can compare most creams and just the ones that contain those ingredients produce significant positive results.
What Causes Bags Under the Eyes, Puffy Eyes & Dark Circles?
Puffy eyes and dark circles can make a person appear years older than they deserve as well as giving a tired out and unhealthy looking appearance. However, many of us today suffer the depressing effects of puffy eyes or dark circles even though we may not actually feel old or worn out. Such an affliction can be seen among younger people as well as those of us who are of more advanced in years. So, if you are looking to rejuvenate your skin and attain a more youthful and healthier looking appearance, one of the most important things that you can do is banish your under eye bags and those dark circles under the eyes.
In order to remedy the problem of puffy eyes or dark circles, we must first understand what causes them.
Whilst sleep deprivation or interrupted sleep cycles can be the more common causes of dark circles or eye puffiness they are by no means the only cause.
Nasal inflammation and sinus congestion can cause those dark circles around the eyes. The congestion and inflammation slows down and impairs the blood flow through the tiny vessels found in our facial area, trapping it and as a consequence blood may pool in this area and show through the skin usually near our eyes causing a purplish like circle!! Proper identification and treatment of sinus issues will go along way in making you feel better and healthier, and for most will aid greatly in the diminishing the dark under eye shadow appearance.
Fluid retention can be the cause of puffy eyes, a common occurrence in the morning as fluid builds up while you sleep. While some degree of puffiness may be normal for a given individual, factors such as age and fatigue may make the swelling more prominent. Conditions including pregnancy and hormonal variations to do with menstruation can lead to the retention of fluid. These conditions can also cause swelling around the eyes to be more prominent.
Try switching to a pillow that will raise your head slightly as elevating the head while sleeping can help the redistribution of fluid that is associated with eye swelling.
A low-carbohydrate diet will help prevent eye puffiness by preventing water retention. Eating more foods rich in vitamins, especially the vitamins A, C and E helps to reduce eye puffiness and to maintain clear, moist skin. Check out your diet. Excess amounts of salt in your diet can encourage fluid retention, don't rely too heavily on ready made meals and take-away foods, they often have high salt contents and of course are known to contain preservatives that prolong shelf life.
A cold compress near the eye can act as a short-term remedy as cold temperature constricts the blood vessels preventing the flow of fluid into tissues and diminishing puffiness. Severe and persistent puffiness may be a sign of some serious medical condition and should therefore be referred to your Doctor.
If you have tired or strained eyes lavender oil can offer some gentle relief; In 2-½ cup water, add a few drops of lavender oil and mix well. Take two cotton balls and dip in this solution. Squeeze out the extra water and place the cotton balls over the eyes.
There are many pricey 'miracle' creams and products on the market that promise many wonderful things, but few deliver any meaningful results. The few that do have a beneficial effect are those that are specifically manufactured with certain problems in mind. For instance an ordinary moisturizer will not solve the problem of dark circles. Always check labels before you buy. One recommendation is to look for a good eye cream to help reduce dark circles and puffiness, one for instance containing the Vitamin K to help strengthen the tiny capillaries just below the skin around the eyes; it will help blood flow and prevent any slight leakage.
One such product is the eye cream Eyederma it is specially manufactured to help reduce dark circles and any puffiness as well as giving your eyes a fresher and more youthful appearance too.
In order to remedy the problem of puffy eyes or dark circles, we must first understand what causes them.
Whilst sleep deprivation or interrupted sleep cycles can be the more common causes of dark circles or eye puffiness they are by no means the only cause.
Nasal inflammation and sinus congestion can cause those dark circles around the eyes. The congestion and inflammation slows down and impairs the blood flow through the tiny vessels found in our facial area, trapping it and as a consequence blood may pool in this area and show through the skin usually near our eyes causing a purplish like circle!! Proper identification and treatment of sinus issues will go along way in making you feel better and healthier, and for most will aid greatly in the diminishing the dark under eye shadow appearance.
Fluid retention can be the cause of puffy eyes, a common occurrence in the morning as fluid builds up while you sleep. While some degree of puffiness may be normal for a given individual, factors such as age and fatigue may make the swelling more prominent. Conditions including pregnancy and hormonal variations to do with menstruation can lead to the retention of fluid. These conditions can also cause swelling around the eyes to be more prominent.
Try switching to a pillow that will raise your head slightly as elevating the head while sleeping can help the redistribution of fluid that is associated with eye swelling.
A low-carbohydrate diet will help prevent eye puffiness by preventing water retention. Eating more foods rich in vitamins, especially the vitamins A, C and E helps to reduce eye puffiness and to maintain clear, moist skin. Check out your diet. Excess amounts of salt in your diet can encourage fluid retention, don't rely too heavily on ready made meals and take-away foods, they often have high salt contents and of course are known to contain preservatives that prolong shelf life.
A cold compress near the eye can act as a short-term remedy as cold temperature constricts the blood vessels preventing the flow of fluid into tissues and diminishing puffiness. Severe and persistent puffiness may be a sign of some serious medical condition and should therefore be referred to your Doctor.
If you have tired or strained eyes lavender oil can offer some gentle relief; In 2-½ cup water, add a few drops of lavender oil and mix well. Take two cotton balls and dip in this solution. Squeeze out the extra water and place the cotton balls over the eyes.
There are many pricey 'miracle' creams and products on the market that promise many wonderful things, but few deliver any meaningful results. The few that do have a beneficial effect are those that are specifically manufactured with certain problems in mind. For instance an ordinary moisturizer will not solve the problem of dark circles. Always check labels before you buy. One recommendation is to look for a good eye cream to help reduce dark circles and puffiness, one for instance containing the Vitamin K to help strengthen the tiny capillaries just below the skin around the eyes; it will help blood flow and prevent any slight leakage.
One such product is the eye cream Eyederma it is specially manufactured to help reduce dark circles and any puffiness as well as giving your eyes a fresher and more youthful appearance too.
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