Hair Care Tips For Anyone

---Should I shampoo my hair daily?

Eric Fisher of Joico Laboratories, Inc. (a professional hair care line) doesn't recommend it. "Most people tend to overshampoo, stripping their hair of its natural oils, which keep hair healthy and shiny," he says.



If your scalp looks oily when you wake up, you should shampoo every day. (Once is enough, though; shampoo and conditioner labels only advise you to repeat the process so that you'll use them up faster.) Otherwise, your hair will probably look better and stay healthier if you skip every other day and let its natural oils accumulate.



Fisher recommends switching between different shampoos every six weeks or so to avoid product buildup, which can leave hair limp. Or just use a clarifying shampoo for a few days at a time every two months to remove the residue your products leave behind.



---What kind of conditioner should I use?

If you have normal or dry hair, use a standard rinse-out conditioner every time you shampoo. But if your locks tend to get greasy, you may want to condition them only a few times a week. For fine or thin hair, look for a conditioner that adds body and reduces tangles. If your hair is super-thick or curly, try a heavier leave-in conditioner.



Combination shampoo and conditioners may seem convenient and economical, but they aren't that great for your hair. It's tough to clean and condition at the same time; what most combos do well is make your hair easy to comb.



---What other hair care products should I use?

Shampoos and conditioners are just the basics. If you want to add volume or shine, you may want to look into other products, but don't overdo it. Too much "product" in your hair can make it brittle and more likely to break when you touch or comb it. Here's a list of the most popular ones and their benefits:



•Gel: Adds shine and helps sculpt hair; best on thick, curly hair; people with fine hair should use a spray gel, which doesn't drag hair down as much.
•Mousse: Can be used during or after blow-drying to give hair more body.
•Pomade: Adds texture, hold, and shine; not recommended for oily hair.
•Sculpting lotion: Gives hair definition, makes it stiff and crunchy; great for curly hair or short spiky styles.
•Silicone sprays: Adds polish and sheen.
•Spray: Holds hairstyles in place.
•Texturizer: Tames split ends and flyaway strands.
•Volumizer: Gives hair lift; makes it look less flat.

---Is it possible to brush my hair too much?

If your hair is fragile, excessive brushing isn't good. You know you have fragile hair if it's dry and doesn't reflect light. You can also take the "elasticity test:" Break off one strand and pull it between your fingers. Hair that can't stretch one third of its length without breaking is fragile. If you have healthy hair, brushing will distribute its oils, producing a natural sheen, but it won't make your hair grow faster. Don't brush your hair when it's wet.



Here are some of the different kinds of brushes:



•Natural/boar bristles: Give an even amount of attention to hair when blow-drying; almost impossible to get strands tangled in them.
•Nylon/plastic bristles: Best for controlling and detangling curly or long hair.
•Paddle-shaped: Ideal for long, one-length, or shoulder-length hair, because they cover a lot of space evenly.
•Round: When used for blow-drying, adds body -- like a hair curler -- to virtually any style, especially good for bob cuts.
•Vent-shaped: Good for those on the go; the holes in the base allow air to pass through to speed drying time; also adds volume to longer hair.
•Wire bristles: Save these for the pros; they snag hair much too easily.

If you prefer combs, choose from the two basic kinds: wide and narrow tooth. The further apart the teeth, the more texture and separation you'll create in hair. A narrow comb -- where the teeth are packed close together -- gives you a smooth look.

6 Shaving Tips for Preventing Ingrown Hairs

Shaving often causes an ingrown hair problem to occur and that is why it is also referred to as razor bumps. Therefore, the best prevention technique is not to shave. Although this is a very logical approach, it is not very practical because not all men want facial hair and not all women are thrilled to have hairy legs or armpits. The alternative is to practice proper shaving techniques consistently and to follow certain shaving tips as described below.


1--Shave with an Electric Razor

Many individuals have found that shaving with an electric razor reduces the occurrence of hairs that are ingrown or razor bumps. This is likely due to the fact that electric razors do not shave as close as a wet blade. With blades, the shave is much closer and there is a greater chance of the cut and sharpened end of the hair to re-enter the hair follicle.


2--Use Shave Gel Instead of Foam

Gels are typically less irritating whereas foams can dry-out and irritate the skin. The shave gel product should contain plenty of lubricating agents and be specially formulated for sensitive skin. Do not use any product that contains alcohol. Alcohol will make this skin care problem substantially worse because it will dry out the skin and close the pores.


3--Wash the Skin Before Shaving

Wet hair is full of moisture and cuts easier. On the other hand dry hair is tougher and stronger. As a razor encounters this tougher hair, it gets pulled up from the follicle and then retracts beneath the skin surface after it is cut. This increases the risk of ingrown-hairs because the cut hair gets trapped inside the hair follicle and digs inward or sideways into the skin as it grows. The hair to be shaved should be wet for around five minutes prior to shaving. Washing the skin before shaving also helps to exfoliate it and helps lift the hairs away from the skin follicle.



4--Shave in the Direction of Hair Growth and this Same Direction Each Time

For men, the direction of shaving is downwards on the cheeks, chin, and moustache areas and upwards on the neck. For women this means shaving downwards on the legs. This is a very important factor in preventing hairs from becoming ingrown. It prevents the hair from being cut too short. If shaving with the hair grain (direction of growth) is done consistently, then the hair can be trained to grow out straight, which prevents it from curling back into the skin.

Shaving against the grain will give a closer shave and some individuals prefer this technique. However, if one is prone to skin irritation and the development of hairs becoming ingrown then shaving with the grain of the hair is strongly recommended.



5--Shave with Skin in a Relaxed State

When shaving it is best not to pull the skin too tight. A little pressure is okay, but too much stretching will result in the hair being cut too short. Also, do not use too much pressure on the blade.


6--Avoid Repeated Strokes in the Same Area

Repeated strokes with the razor over the same area will cause the hair to be cut too short and result in a greater chance of the development of an ingrown-hair problem. Also, a single blade razor is generally preferred. With rigid twin blade razors, the first blade lifts the hair and the second blade cuts it deep and usually at an angle that makes the development of ingrown hair likely. Pivoting head razors with multiple blades are not as bad as the fixed blades razors.

Treatments For Kinds Of Insect Bites

Insect bite treatment is an important element of healthy skin care. If spider or insect bites or stings are ignored, there is potential for complications for the skin and health of the individual.

The skin provides protection for the rest of the human body from external contaminants, poisons, etc. Therefore, when it comes to insect and spider bites it is the target organ for biting insects and spiders. Why do insects and spiders bite the skin of humans? There are two principal reasons why spiders and insects will bite or sting. The first is for protection and the second is to feed on human blood.


The reasons for biting or stinging categorize spiders and insects into two classes: venomous (or poisonous) and non-venomous. Depending on which type of insect did the biting, an insect bite treatment may be necessary.

Venomous insects are the ones that bite or sting as a defence mechanism to protect themselves or their nests. Usually the bites or stings are very painful and toxic venom is injected into the skin via a stinger. The affected area often swells (around 12 inches or possibly more from the affected area) and becomes very red. A stinger may or may not be left behind, depending on the insect. Itchiness is usually not one of the significant symptoms caused by venomous insects. Individuals with these types of bites or stings usually pursue insect bite treatment. In some cases, the insect venom can cause a severe allergic reaction within a few minutes or up to an hour after the bite or sting. In these cases, the facial area swells, urticaria develops all over the body, and difficulty or no breathing at all can develop (anaphylaxis). This is a very dangerous condition and an insect bit treatment and more serious medical attention should be pursued.

Non-venomous insect bites are in general quite a bit less painful. These insects inject anti-coagulant saliva into the skin to facilitate feeding on the human blood. In many cases, an insect bite treatment is not sought after or required. Usually only minor swelling or a small raised red spot occurs that may or may not blister, accompanied by itch. For some, the itch, swelling, and redness may be more severe or mild allergic reactions may occur. Intense itch can lead to repeated scratching of the affected area and breaking of the skin surface. This can result in an infection. Therefore, some type of insect bite treatment may be a good idea to prevent any problems from developing.

Insects may also carry viruses such as West Nile, Malaria, Lyme disease, Dengue fever, Rocky Mountain Spotted fever, Encephalitis, and Rickettsial disease among others. Therefore, bug bite treatment or more aggressive medical treatments and prevention all become extremely important. In addition, bites can sensitize individuals to certain skin conditions. For example, dermatographism is one skin condition that may develop because of a bite or sting, usually from a venomous type insect.

As discussed above, depending on which type of insect did the biting, an insect bite treatment or insect bite relief may be required. Therefore, listed below are various common biting and stinging insects in order to provide specific information on each insect. This information includes the effect that the bites have on human skin and the body overall, description of bites, prevention steps in order to avoid bites or complications from bites, and a discussion on insect bite treatment. Please click on the type of insect to access this information.


---Biting Insects

*Mosquitoes

A mosquito bite usually results in redness and minor local swelling around the mosquito bite site. Itching is also very common and tends to last longer than the swelling, which subsides after a few hours. An insect bite treatment for mosquitos will help bring relief for these symptoms.


*Bed Bugs

Bed bug bites create small hives usually in an orderly row or clustered pattern. Skin redness and itching are also very likely and are a reaction to the bed bug’s saliva. Insect bite treatment for bedbugs is similar to that for mosquitos.

*Sand Fleas

Despite its size, the bite from a sand flea is quite painful. In fact, most of the time the bite is more painful than one from a typically larger mosquito. In addition to pain, the bite causes a large welt or rashes on the skin that can persist for several days.


---Stinging Insects

*Wasps

A wasp sting can produce symptoms that are local and affect only the skin or can be systemic and affect the whole body. Whether a sting will generate minor or major reactions or symptoms depends on a number of factors. The type of insect bite treatment or insect bite relief depends on the severity of the reaction to the sting.


*Bees

A bee can cause quite mild non-life threatening skin symptoms or much more serious health problems. The greatest risks that can occur from bee stings are an allergic reaction(which could be fatal in some individuals) or infection. Bee sting treatments are often required to avoid health and skin problems.


*Fire Ants

A fire ant delivers a very painful and burning sting to its victims. This fiery burning pain is intensified because of the likelihood of multiple bites or stings. An insect bite treatment is necessary to help brief relief to the victim and prevent complications from developing.


---Spiders

*Spiders

Most spiders are not dangerous to humans and do not require a spider or insect bite treatment. Most bites are too small even to be seen. However, all spiders do have some amount of venom and the potency can vary substantially. This determines the extent of reaction in the skin and the body overall.


*Chiggers

A treatment for chigger bite is often required to ease the symptoms that occur after a bite. Within a few hours after a chigger bite, extremely intense skin itching will be experienced. This is accompanied by the appearance of red bumps on the skin.

8 Hair Color Tips To Dye Hair At Home

If you've recently started experimenting with at-home color or are thinking about making the switch (in the name of saving cash), use these tips as your guide. With this expert help you can get salon-quality results in the comfort of your bathroom. So go ahead and cheat on your colorist -- with yourself! You and your wallet will be happy you did.

Tip 1:
When selecting at-home hair color, never go more than two shades lighter or darker than your current tone. Jason Backe, co-owner and head colorist at Ted Gibson Salon, warns that if you do break this rule it could lead to disappointing or disastrous results because unlike at the salon, the product is pre-mixed, so it's impossible to control the volume of peroxide.

Tip 2:
Semi-permanent hair color is a great option for color commitment-phobes (try Garnier 100% Color). But Alyson Pemoulié, senior colorist at Eva Scrivo Salon, points out that you can’t lift or go lighter with a semi-permanent shade -- you can only go darker or blend grays.

Tip 3:
Having trouble finding the right shade? Most hair color companies offer online guides. L'Oreal Paris has a tool that walks you through the decision-making process and Clairol has a "try it on" feature that allows you to see yourself in a variety of different hair colors. Keep in mind, if the shade you like is entirely different than your natural color (remember tip no. 1?), head to the salon for your first application.


Tip 4:
If you’ve never used at-home color before, it's important to practice. Patty Slattery, assistant vice president of education and technical services at L'Oreal USA, recommends testing your skills the day before you color using gloves, a paint brush (if needed for the box you're using) and conditioner. "This way you can mimic the motion of spreading the product all the way from roots to tips," she says.

Tip 5:
Before highlighting at home for the first time, separate out a quarter-inch section along both sides of your part -- and clip it out of the way. Start your highlights below the clipped section. "It'll hide any errors or spots where the color doesn't make it all the way to your roots," Backe says. Our readers' favorite: L'Oreal Paris Excellence Cremelights.


Tip 6:
There's nothing worse than ruining your clothes and staining your floor in an at-home hair color attempt. "Create a salon at home. Throw on a smock or old shirt and set up a station that includes gloves, a comb and a towel to wipe up spills," Backe says.

Tip 7:
"Swipe a thin layer of petroleum jelly or rich moisturizer on the outermost edge of your hairline," Backe says. This provides a barrier to keep the dye from staining skin. Just make sure you don't get any on your roots or your color application may look uneven or splotchy. If you do stain your skin, pick up a bottle of Roux Clean Touch Haircolor Stain Remover to easily remove it.


Tip 8:
"Hair color can feel tingly and uncomfortable if your scalp is too clean," Slattery says. So always apply hair color to unwashed hair. The natural oils act as a buffer to the product. And don't worry; color is strong enough to penetrate through hairstyling products, no problem!

Skin Aging Signs In Your Different Age Groups

Skin aging signs gradually appear throughout the various stages of life. Some of the symptoms of aging skin can be classified into certain age groups.

Pre-teen Years (12 years old and younger)

The skin is usually in near perfect condition in terms of skin aging signs, not including the presence of any skin diseases or lasting damage caused by skin diseases.


--skin is soft and smooth, plump and with small pores

--abnormal skin growths, birthmarks, and moles may be present (these are not indications of aging
--skin as they were likely present at birth)

--scars due to day-to-day living begin to accumulate


13 to 20 Years Old Skin Aging Signs

Many changes are occurring to the body during this age range. Some of these changes manifest themselves in the skin.

--various degrees of acne develop depending on the individual

--scaring as a result of acne

--fine lines start to appear

--appearance of hair in unwanted areas of the skin


20 to 30 Years Old

For this age group, the first real signs of skin aging begin to appear.


--appearance of additional fine lines and first minor wrinkles

--slight dulling of the skin

--enlarging of skin pores begins

--some loss in the elasticity of the skin

--slight skin sagging, especially around the eye

--acne and associated scarring

--appearance of excess hair on the skin

For women, pregnancy is likely to occur during this time and there are associated skin problems that occur more significantly because of this such as:

--stretch marks

--varicose and spider veins

--skin discolouration or pigmentation problems


30 to 40 Years Old

--Some of the initial skin aging signs experienced for the 20 to 30 year old age group begin to
--become more evident. In addition, some additional signs of skin aging appear.

--more lines on the forehead and around the eyes and mouth

--more wrinkles evident

--potential appearance of facial veins and varicose and spider veins on the legs

--more likely to see changes or unusual dark spots on the skin which could be early warning signs for skin cancer

40 to 55 Years Old

This age group is where the aging skin signs really become more significant and more of a concern for people.


--scars and blemishes from younger times become more evident

--more fine lines and wrinkles and those wrinkles begin to deepen noticeably

--significantly more sagging of the skin around the eyes and cheeks

--more facial veins, varicose veins, spider veins

--appearance of age spots that begin to darken

--skin takes on more of a rough texture

--more significant enlarging of pores

--recovery of skin from damage begins to slow

--beginning of skin discolouration and pigmentation problems


Over 55 Years Old Skin Aging Signs


--many fine lines and deep wrinkles

--uneven colour or skin pigmentation

--sagging of skin becomes worse in all areas

--dark circles appear under the eye

--liver spots and the greater likelihood that moles and warts will appear

--the probable significant appearance of many of the intrinsic and extrinsic aging signs mentioned above

Enlarge Your Breasts Naturally and Quickly In Months

No matter where you live there are women who wants to know, how to enlarge your breasts naturally. Most of them are ashamed of their breast size, either because they are too small or they have begun to sag. This can be very embarrassing for women especially when they see other women with big beautiful breasts.


The thing is, some of those women chose to under go surgery to get those big breasts. This is something you will not have to do, because there is a simple way of enhancing your breast size without surgery. Some even use padded or push up bras which make it look as though they enlarged their breasts, but when the day is over they still have small breasts.


Imagine this, a man find you attractive because of your bust size and for other reasons, then after months of dating you expose your breast to him for the very first time. Now he realizes that your breasts really are not what he thought they were. Not only is he turned off, you are embarrassed because of it.


Now imagine, you tried a breast enhancement cream product that really gave you the chest size you wanted, now he's happy and so are you because you didn't have to pull out those pads.


By using breasts enlargement pills and creams you are guaranteed to increase your chest by 1 to 2 cup sizes in as little as 6 months. The pills helps to increase the blood flow to your breasts and the creams is used for massaging your breast which also helps the blood flow.


The ingredients in these products are natural so there are no side effects which makes them safe for you to use. Not only are they good for your breasts, they are also good for your health. These products helps to stimulate the growth and the development of your breast.


Here's how to enlarge your breasts naturally? Buy a natural breast enhancement program that comes with pills, cream and massaging techniques. Make sure there is a money back guarantee, read some of the testimonies from women who have tried them, check with your doctor and follow the directions.

Write Your Name In Japanese Symbols For Tattoo Design

Nowadays, just as we, Japanese people, love to use English symbols or phrase on T-shirt, Logo or jewely design, Westerners start to use Japanese Kanji Symbols for their own design needs as well.

The most popular use of Japanese Symbols is for tattoo designs, and today, this article tells you how your name is translated into Japanese Kanji symbols.

Although there are 3 different Japanese scripts called Kanji, Hiragana and Katakana, the most popular Japanese symbol as a tattoo design is Kanji.

Kanji are ideographic characters.

It means that each of Kanji symbol represent not just a sound, but an object or idea. Historically, it is imported from China.

Now, when we write names in Japanese kanji symbols, we can use several different ways to translate. First of all, the key to successfully rendering a name into Japanese symbol is deciding what you want to achieve.

Today, a professional way of Japanse name translation is disscussed. That is, the phonetic and eulogistic transcription, and used when you want to get both the pronunciation and the original meaning of your name.

In this case, we choose a kanji symbol according to each character's sound, and also combine them with an appropriate meaning.

For example, we write Emma in Japnase kanji symbols.
Emma can be written by using 2 kanji symbols.
The pronunciation becomes "e ma" in Japanese, while the meaning is "Eternal Truth".
You see, we use the Japanese kanji symbol which has "e" sound and "ma" sound, and in this case, we have chosen Eternal kanji symbol whose sound is "e" and truth kanji symbol whose sound is "ma".

Also, Kanji has 2 different ways to read and has several different sounds.
So, let me also mentioned about the Kunyomi and the Onyomi.

The onyomi has developed from the original Chinese pronunciation but over the centuries it has been adapted to and become part of the Japanese language.
On the other hand, the kunyomi is native Japanese word.

To write names, we use both kunyomi and Onyomi reading.
But, English names are usually translated with Onyomi reading, and if the sound of onyomi reading of a kanji character is the same as the sound of your name, its kanji character is allocated.

Find Cheap Anti-Wrinkle Creams

We’ve often been told that, if we want undeniable quality, we must not make any compromises, even if that means paying more than we could afford on a single beauty product. As a matter of fact, as a new study by UK consumer watchdog Which? reveals, this is precisely the one thing on which the cosmetics industry relies, since most costly anti-wrinkle creams on the market are outperformed by budget versions in terms of visible, lasting results.

Which? performed the six-week blind study on a group of women aged 35 to 65 in a bid to determine whether more expensive products also meant they returned better results than their cheaper counterparts, ThisIsMoney says. As the findings reveal, they don’t: in fact, it’s precisely the other way around, as the Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturiser, coming from a budget brand, came on top, with the most visible results in terms of banishing wrinkles.

“It’s not just Hollywood stars who want to look younger, we all do, but it’s unlikely that spending a fortune on the latest miracle product will get rid of wrinkles. Our tests show that anti-wrinkle eye creams have limited success, whatever they cost.” Jess Ross, editor of Which?, says in a press statement. So, while more costly products have more luxurious ingredients and come in a better and more appealing package, they offer little in return for their ridiculously high price tags, the study has revealed.

This is a serious blow to the cosmetics industry, ThisIsMoney points out, especially since the blind study included some of the most popular products and brands now available on the market. As a side note, all volunteers who agreed to take part in the study, as well as the five experts who compared the results at the end of the trial period, did not know what products they used. The results were compared by means of high-definition photographs taken of the volunteers at the beginning and the end of the study.

“The results showed that the Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturiser face cream worth just £3.21 outperformed the most expensive product tested, the StriVectin–SD, which costs £47.” ThisIsMoney says of the findings. Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Beauty Serum, £16.75, the “miracle” anti-wrinkle cream that literally flew off the shelves after it was reviewed by BBC and proclaimed “scientifically proven” to eliminate wrinkles, came in second, falling in the “Moderate Wrinkle Reduction” category. Even more surprisingly, the much-hyped pharmacy brand RoC Retin-Ox Intensive Eye Cream (£19.95) came in last, being the only product of the 12 tested to fall in the “Least Effective” category, despite the positive media it had garnered since release.

How To Fight Adult Acne

Adult acne can really put a crimp on your life. Last year, for instance, Christine Janssen considered posting a new photograph of herself on her business web site but ultimately resisted the idea. “With my acne, I just wanted to put a paper bag over my head,” says Janssen, 41, who runs a Manhattan marketing research company.

Skin problems afflict almost everyone growing up, but some never outgrow it, says Jonette Keri, MD, PhD, assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and chief of dermatology at the Miami VA Medical Center. She estimates that nearly 30% of women and 20% of men ages 20 to 60 (and beyond) are troubled by breakouts.

What Causes Adult Acne?
Adult acne is caused by sebum, an oily substance produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands. Sebum clogs pores, which attract bacteria and become inflamed. For most adults, breakouts are a result of hypersensitivity to androgens (male hormones). But an imbalance in both male and female hormones (estrogen) can also cause breakouts. For women, this can happen during pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. Some medications, such as corticosteroids, and cosmetics are also triggers.

How Is Adult Acne Treated?

Treating adult acne is tricky. Most acne medications are geared to teens' oily skin, a bad choice for drier adult skin. Effective treatment often requires a trial-and-error approach that takes time, Keri says. Her recommendations include:

Cleansers: Cetaphil and Aquanil are the most gentle. Avoid too-strong gels and products containing beads or granules, which are abrasive and can irritate and worsen sensitive skin.

Creams and lotions: Use an over-the-counter retinol product to clean pores and help reduce fine wrinkles. Prevent discoloration and fade acne scars with products that contain salicylic and glycolic acids. And to spot-treat a breakout, use a product with benzoyl peroxide, which helps kill bacteria.

Prescription medications: The topical antibiotic clindamycin helps fight bacteria in the skin; so does tetracycline, another antibiotic, taken orally. Oral contraceptives and spironolactone, a blood pressure drug, can help balance hormones.

High-tech solutions: Laser and intense pulsed light treatments mainly target scars, but blue light therapy treatments kill acne-causing bacteria. These treatments are costly, though, so explore your other options first.

A Skin-Care Regimen for the Acne Prone

Believe it or not, there’s a trick to skillful face washing. To start, try to keep your face clean during the day. Then wash your face twice daily with the cleanser (if your skin is dry, try using water the second time). Use only warm water (hot water is drying). Wash for just 1-2 minutes (more can irritate your skin). And use your hands instead of a rough washcloth. (If you must wash with a cloth, choose one made for babies, so it’s as soft as possible.)

As for Janssen, she found that a doctor-prescribed regimen of gentle cleansing, oral antibiotics, and a retinol cream did the trick, and her new photo is now proudly posted on her web site. She says, “All my friends comment on how clear my skin looks.”

All Things You Should Know Before Tattoo

The Truth about Tattoos
If you haven't noticed, tattoos are popular. Already, 25% of 18- to 30-year-olds have a tattoo. In the next few years, 40% of this age group will have a tattoo. If you think tatts are a guy thing, think again. Up to 65% of tattoo bearers are women. But before you ink, learn more about tattoos – why people get them, the health risks involved, and your removal options if you change your mind.

Types: Amateur Tattoos
Amateur tattoos are made by individuals or their friends by jabbing ink, charcoal, or ashes under the skin with a pin. They lack the artistry of professional tattoos. And because such tattoos are done under unsanitary conditions with unusual pigments, there is a much higher risk of infection.


Types: Cultural Tattoos
Cultural tattoos are applied via traditional methods to members of certain ethnic groups. They may serve ritual, societal, or cosmetic functions.


Types: Professional Tattoos
Professional tattoos are applied by registered artists using a tattoo machine -- the term many artists prefer to the slangy "tattoo gun."


Types: Cosmetic Tattoos
Tattoos may be used as "permanent" make-up, such as eye and lip liner, lipstick, blush, eyebrows, or hair imitation. Because tattoos do fade over time, the procedure must occasionally be repeated to keep colors fresh.


Types: Medical Tattoos
Medical tattoos are not decorative, but are placed for medical reasons:

--Patients with medical conditions or chronic diseases, such as diabetes, may use a tattoo to alert health care workers in case of an emergency.

--Doctors often use tattoos to mark specific sites for repeated application of radiation therapy.

--After breast reconstruction surgery, a tattoo may be used to simulate the nipple. This use may also be considered a cosmetic tattoo.


Types: Traumatic Tattoos
Traumatic tattoos occur during injuries, when dirt or other materials get imbedded in the skin. Examples include "road rash" from bike accidents or "pencil-point" tattoos (like the one shown here) from pencil punctures.

Why Get a Tattoo?
There are two basic, very different reasons why people get tattoos: To demonstrate one's individuality and uniqueness, or to show membership in a group. Should you get one? No, says University of Miami dermatologist Jonette Keri, MD, PhD. "Down the road, you may not want it -- bodies at 60 look different than bodies at 30," she says. "And, people still have preconceived notions about people who get tattoos. If you'll be looking for a job, you may not get it."


Safe Tattooing: Choosing a Studio
If you're going to get a tattoo, remember that getting a permanent tattoo is an invasive procedure that requires breaking the skin and coming into contact with blood and body fluids. Make sure the studio is as clean as a doctor's office. (Hint: Check the bathroom. If it's dirty, get out of there.) Check the artist's business license to make sure it's up to date. And check the tattoo area: Look for a separate area for tattooing with a clean, hard surface and no random items contaminating the work area.


Safe Tattooing Tips
--Don't drink alcohol or take drugs (especially aspirin) the night before or while getting a tattoo.

--Don't get a tattoo if you're sick.

--Make sure all needles are removed from sterile single-use package before use.

--Make sure the studio has sterilization equipment to clean instruments after each use.

--Make sure the artist washes his hands and puts on sterile gloves; many tattooists are required to take training in the prevention of bloodborne illnesses.

--Make sure the work area is clean and clear of nonsterile objects (water bottles, purses, etc.)

--Get a list of the specific pigments used, including color, manufacturer's name, and lot number.

--After getting a tattoo, carefully follow healing instructions -- including use of antibiotic ointment.


Tattoo Risks: Infection
Whatever type of tattoo you get, there are risks involved. The most serious risks are life-threatening infections, such as HIV or hepatitis C, from unclean needles. Other infections, such as a staph infection called impetigo or MRSA (shown here), or deep-skin infection cellulitis may develop. It is important to note the FDA has not traditionally regulated either tattoo inks or tattoo removal, but is currently studying the issue.

Tattoo Risks: Allergic Reaction
Some people develop allergic reactions to tattoo pigments -- especially red pigments. The woman in this picture developed an allergic reaction to the red pigment used in her cosmetic lipstick tattoo. Tissue injury and inflammatory reactions to dyes or metals into the skin can occur. Occasionally a contact dermatitis can happen.


Tattoo Removal
Tattoos can be removed. Sometimes, particularly if the tattoo was done only in black, the results can be quite good. But often the skin cannot be restored to its original color or quality.


Tattoo Removal Techniques
There are three basic techniques: cutting away the tattooed skin, dermabrasion (rubbing away the tattooed skin with an abrasive device), or laser removal. Most doctors prefer to use lasers. The tattoo shown here was removed via laser; the scar below it was left from dermabrasion removal. Some color inks are harder to remove than others and repeated visits are required; permanent tattoos may never be gone entirely. The FDA warns people NOT to use any of the many available do-it-yourself tattoo removal products. These products contain acids and can cause harmful skin reactions. The FDA suggests that people seeking tattoo removal see a doctor, not a tattoo artist.


Tattoo Removal: What To Expect
Different lasers are used on different tattoo colors to break down the pigment into small particles that can be eliminated from the body. Immediately after treatment, the skin under the tattoo may whiten. More normal skin color usually appears in time.


Tattoo Removal Risks: Allergic Reactions
Lasers break down tattoo pigments, raising the possibility of allergic reactions. In the heart tattoo shown here, each of several different laser treatments caused the same blistering reaction. Fortunately, the blisters got better with routine skin care.


Tattoo Removal Risks: Scarring
Not every tattoo comes off perfectly. This picture shows scarring caused by attempted laser tattoo removal.

Guides To Care Your Sensitive Skin

Before you can help treat and adequately care for sensitive skin, you need to know whether your skin is actually sensitive. If your skin is breaks out in rashes, stings at the use of skincare products for normal skin, and is constantly irritated by skincare products and/or environmental factors, you probably have sensitive skin. If you do have sensitive skin, you may need to re-think your usual skincare routine.

Switching out the products that you currently use for ones that cater to the needs particular needs of sensitive skin is probably the most obvious place to start. Read the labels of skincare products carefully before you buy anything new. The label should read “for sensitive skin.” Also check the ingredients list. Stay away from products that contain alcohol; instead select a product that contains natural skin soothing ingredients such as aloe. Products made with sensitive skin in mind can be found in drugstores and department store makeup counters and just about anywhere else that you usually buy skincare products.



An adequate skincare regimen should include the use of a makeup remover prior to a person washing their face. People with sensitive skin should take particular care to choose a makeup remover that is soap-free. If the label says “gentle” or “for sensitive skin” then it is probably a good buy, but when in doubt ask a knowledgeable sales assistant who works exclusively in the cosmetics section of the store.


When applying the new makeup remover, use a cotton swab instead of a washcloth. A washcloth is harsher and tends to irritate sensitive skin more than a soft cotton swab or pad.


Washcloths are not the only harsh abrasive a person with sensitive skin should steer clear of. Exfoliating scrubs that contain granules of any size, large or small, are often too hard on sensitive skin. If your skin is acne-prone then you still need to exfoliate at least one time per week. As an alternative to scrubs containing abrasive granules, try using a product that contains salicylic acid once a week to keep pores de-clogged.


Toners are especially important products for people with oily skin. If your skin is too sensitive for a toner developed for normal skin, but you also experience trouble with oil control, try using a gentler toner instead of skipping that step altogether. Toners made with natural ingredients such as witch hazel are much gentler on the skin than a toner made for normal skin. Normal toners usually include harsh ingredients such as alcohol, which as you already know is bad for sensitive skin, so stay away from those.


An adequate skincare regimen also includes the daily application of sunscreen, but for people with sensitive skin, some sunscreens are so irritating to the skin that people skip this important step. Instead of allowing sun damage to ruin your skin’s future health, buy a sunscreen or a sunscreen-containing moisturizer that has zinc or titanium dioxide listed in the ingredients. These ingredients are not absorbed into the skin as are sunscreens containing the skin irritating chemical Parsol 1789.

Creat Frizz-free Hair By Yourself

Frizzy hair happens, but there is something you can do about it.

1) Wash your hair, but don’t over-wash it. Frizzy hair does not need to be washed every day and it certainly should not be washed more than one time per day. As a general rule, people with frizzy hair should not wash their hair more than three times per week. If you do you are basically cleaning the natural oils that help weight down frizzy hair right off of your head. When you do wash your hair use both a conditioning shampoo and an intense, deep conditioner. It might be hard for some people to forego washing their hair everyday, but try to remember that you can still shower as many times a day as you want to keep your body clean, just skip over your hair. If you wash everyday right now, ease off gradually. Your scalp is accustomed to over-produce oil to try to keep up with your hygiene habits so try washing up to four times per week and gradually work your way down to three and maybe even two.

2) Deep condition regularly. Deep conditioning will help restore moisture to your hair and will help fortify damaged hair over a period of time during which you use the product at least one time per week. You can use a hair mask, oil treatment, or deep conditioner for this task. You may want to ask your hair stylist to recommend specific products.


3) Replace your styling gel with a conditioning styling cream. Recently introduced hair products for made for curly hair are creamy and conditioning unlike hair gel which holds the curls in place but does nothing to condition your hair. If you can’t give up the gel, at least apply a generous dose of leave-in conditioner to your hair before you apply the gel.

4) Whether your hair is curly or straight, if it is frizzy then you need to stay away from blow dryers, flat irons and curling irons. The more heat you use to style your hair the more you are drying your strands out. If you can’t bear the look of your hair when it isn’t heat styled, try using only one heated styling tool and set it to a lower temperature that you usually use. For example, don’t blow-dry your hair and then use a flat-iron to get it straight. Instead, allow your hair to air dry and then use your flat iron, but use it on a low or medium setting instead of a high one. On the days that you use heating tools, always apply a thermal protectant to your hair, as directed by the product’s label, before styling to reduce the damaging effects such tools will have on your hair. Your hair stylist may again be able to recommend a tried-and-true product for you. But of course, the best way to help your hair out is to skip the heat styling altogether. If you don’t know any other way to manage your mane, make an appointment ASAP with your stylist to get tips on styling your hair naturally. Every time you skip over that blow dryer you are helping to restore your hair.

Great Hairstyles For Balding Men

Going bald isn’t bad -- it’s actually badass if you approach it from the right angle. A lot of guys worry about their hair loss; this is the wrong outlook. It’s these guys who should take a lesson from their balding counterparts who face the issue head on, with confidence and style. These are the men who work with what they have and it translates into enduring self-assurance. It’s these men who set the example for all of us -- balding or not -- on how to pull off a truly poised, unwavering style. So if you’re thinning on top and can’t afford plugs like Piven, here are some approaches for your lessening locks.


----Thinning Hair
Some guys just lose it all over, with no rhyme or reason. For these guys, there are a couple of great haircuts that are both stylish and sophisticated: shaggy layers or a crew cut.

*Shaggy Layers


Say your hair is thinning on top, but you’re just not ready to go short-short. Try shaggy layers. By tousling your hair and just sort of letting it “fall where it may,” you create a disheveled allusion that actually works in your hair’s favor. Look at Peter Sarsgaard, for example. He masks his thinning hair with unkempt cleverness. Sarsgaard’s longer layers, especially toward the front, disguise his hair’s thinness by falling in a random, purposefully out-of-order mess.

*Crew Cut


At the point when your thinning hair requires a shorter cut, you should consider a crew cut. The crew cut works its magic by blending the thinning hair in with the rest. Bono is a perfect illustration of the crew cut these days. By donning this buzz-like ‘do, taking the hair short on the sides and slightly longer on the top, he avoids the pitfalls of his lightening locks. His crew cut deceptively intermingles the thinner areas with the thicker areas, leaving a visual effect that more hair is present than there actually is.


----Bald Spot
There are some who have plenty of hair everywhere -- except the crown of their head. The bald spot is a common issue, and it’s one that’s easy to skirt with either a buzz or a close shave.

*Buzz Cut

The beginnings of a bald spot become imperceptible when you pull out the clippers and go for a buzz. The buzz works well to disguise the thin (or absent) hair on your crown, and since a buzz cut comes in varying lengths, it is a gradual cut you can employ throughout the balding process. Jason Statham has long been the master of this particular haircut. His buzzed-back locks work in conjunction with his bad-boy image to create a look that’s urban, edgy and sophisticated.



*Close Shave


If the buzz cut starts to fade, then guys with a bald spot can opt for the close shave. (This particular cut works well for those whose bald spot is quite expansive.) With a close shave, you leave a hint of hair on the scalp, just enough that everything usually all blends together. The overall effect is sleek, and you can look at Djimon Hounsou as proof. Making a truly bold move, Hounsou uses the close shave not to disguise his balding pate, but to define his style.


----Receding Hairline
Textured Crop


Most guys have plenty of hair toward the back and on the sides; it’s just that the hair in the front seems to be retreating from their face. If this becomes the issue, then use a textured crop. This stylish cut, like the one that Jude Law regularly sports, uses uneven layers, especially at the receding hairline, to blend everything together. It creates an unbalanced symmetry that looks both messy and modern all at once.

Au Naturel


If you’re balding and you know it -- and you do care -- then go for the au naturel look. Some guys prefer to let nature run its course, fully embracing what’s been given to (or taken from) them. They are the George Costanzas of the world, and they are to be respected for their adherence to their own rules and regulations. Hey, we all face shrinkage in some form or other.


Losing Your Hair, Not Your Cool
We have a lot to learn from guys balding gracefully. These are the men facing ordinary challenges with extraordinary technique. They take a simple approach to hair loss, finding ways to work with their thinning locks rather than work around them. These are the guys who prove that losing your hair definitely doesn’t mean losing your cool.

6 Easy Homemade Manicure Recipes

1.Hand Sugar Exfoliant
Mix two tablespoons of oil (vegetable, olive, baby or safflower oil) with three tablespoons of sugar (using coarse sugar will be better) and form a paste. Gently rub the paste on your hands and continue doing so for 2-3 minutes. Wash off with warm water and dry thoroughly.

2.Hand Softener
For coarse and dry hands, mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with a teaspoon of sugar and a little water. Apply this mixture on your hands and let it sit for 5 minutes. Wash off with warm water and dry thoroughly.

3.Tomato-Lime Softener
If you have rough skin on your hands, this recipe will surely prove to be handy. Take out the juice of one tomato and one lime and mix well. Add 2-3 tbsp glycerin to it and massage your hand with the mixture, for 3-4 minutes. Wash off with warm water and dry thoroughly.

4.Honey-Egg Softener
In a bowl, put an ounce of honey, the white portion of an egg, one tsp of glycerin and some barley powder. Mix the ingredients well and apply on clean hands. Let the paste sit on your hands for a few minutes and then wash off with water.

5.Nourishing Hand Cream
Mix 1/3 cup of glycerin and 2/3 cups of rose water. Put the mixture in a bottle and shake it well. Store it in a cool and dry place .Massage your hands with the mixture as often as possible.

6.Cuticle Softener
Warm olive oil can go a long way in softening your cuticles. Just after you have taken a bath, push your cuticles back and massage warm olive oil into them. Use the tips of the fingers for the purpose.

Makeup Tips Just For Older Women

Beauty and makeup are not the monopoly of young age. It is actually at 40 that the real need of makeup starts. The makeup for older women need not be more sophisticated and classy. It is because they have to be specific about the colors and texture of makeup they use. The make up they wear also reflect about the society they belong to, so at this age more than looking beautiful, makeup becomes a way to flaunt the class and hide the ageing signs. The basic challenge in applying make up over an old lady is to cover her ageing marks and give her a graceful look.

Difference between the make up of Older and Younger Women

*The makeup of older women needs to be more graceful than that of young women.

*The use of colors should be done in a more classy way. There should be use of more pastel shades. Excess glittery and skin showy clothes should be avoided.

*The combination of accessories with the dress should be very sophisticated and stylish.

*Makeup should focus on hiding the ageing marks like wrinkles, blemishes and scars if any.

*As there is a little less scope to go out of way in hairdo and hair color, the experiments should be done in a subtle way with hair cuts.

*It is always preferable to go for regular cuts and suitable trends other than blindly following the fashion.

*Remember it's not about looking younger; it is about looking beautiful at your own age.

Before you go for a makeup do…
Now when you are 40, it is time to give you a wonderful make over. First of all review your look and observe the changes that have come across you in last few years. Also, make a check list of the things you want to work upon. Do you feel you are in the same look from last 10 or 20 years? It is time to change now. Your dated hair and makeup can add to your aging look and wrong choice of colors can make you a matter of amusement. It is thus often advisable to go for a professional advice. Given here are few...

Make up advices for older women
Hair
Reconsider your hair style. Go for a change that compliments your face and profession at your age. Also, go for colors lighter in shade for a softened and graceful look.

Eyebrows
As by this age, your eyebrows may start getting sparser and the color of your eyebrows may begin to fade, give them additional definition with a powder, pencil or gel that is similar to your natural hair color.

Face
Do not go with very heavy foundations; try liquid foundations mixed with moisturizer to nourish your dry face. Also try to use a shade of reflecting foundation. Even use the lighter shade of powder which is moisturizing, and goes on smoothly. In case you use blush, make sure that you use cream blush instead of a powder for a more bedewed appearance. Use a non-frosted powder below your chin to hide the saggy neck.

Eyes
Make sure you curl your lashes as this brings a big change in the way you look. Use neutral shade of shimmer for more natural look. Use a judicious yet classy use of liner and mascara. Avoid wild colors, go for mild ranges. Prefer the blends of pink and gray eye shadows that soften graying hair

Lips
Your lips must have started getting a little dry by now. So the challenge before you is giving your lip, a fresh and young look. Prefer using foundation and powder close to the lip line. You can also go for an anti-feathering lip primer to avoid feathering. Choose graceful shades of lipsticks. More than colors pay attention to the moisture and fullness of your lips. Pink, Berry, Coral or Peach shades are good options.

Top 10 Beauty Foods You Can Find In Your Kitchen

There is no doubt that all of us want to look beautiful, slim and fit. One has to exercise sufficiently to look good. But it is important to eat the right kind of diet to look beautiful. There are a number of beauty foods that are healthy and help in enhancing your looks. Given below some foods that you can add to your diet if you want to look beautiful.

1.Apple Cider Vinegar: This vinegar has a number of healing properties and it makes the skin soft and supple. Apple cider vinegar is concentrated with enzymes and these help peel off dead skin cells. It breaks down fat and helps food digest properly.

2.Carrots: Help to maintain the outer layer of the skin to prevent premature aging. It works just like Retin A.

3.Cheese: Make a slice or two of hard cheese a part of your diet. Cheese helps to prevent bacteria from growing in the mouth and prevents cavities. Choose between Swiss, cheddar or Gouda.

4.Citrus Fruits: These fruits hold the skin cells together by forming collagen. Collagen cannot be added to the skin topically and hence fruits and juices must be made an integral part of your daily diet.

5.Cranberries: These berries keep the urinary tract lining healthy.

6.Garlic: Helps to combat wrinkles and restores tissues.

7.Nonfat Yogurt: Is high is calcium and helps to keep your smile white and your teeth cavity-free.

8.Sweet Potatoes: These potatoes are full of vitamin A and vitamin A is known for being an anti-wrinkling agent. The result of eating this vegetable is smoother skin.

9.Tomatoes: This vegetable does wonders to your skin. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium.

10.Wheat Germ: To get rid of pimples efficiently include two or three tablespoons of wheat germ in your diet. You add this to your cereal, yogurt and cottage cheese.

Benefits Of Goat Milk Soap

Most people do not understand or are unaware of goat milk soap and its benefits. Day after day many people continue to use the same commercial soaps that are too harsh for their skin. They do not realize that there is a handmade natural soap alternative that could be much better for their skin.

Goat milk soaps are good for just about any skin type. Do you have dry skin? Some people with dry skin suffer with continual scaling and dryness causing them to itch while maintaining an overall uncomfortable feeling. Goat milk soaps can help dry skin sufferers. These handmade natural soaps are super mild, gentle and very moisturizing. Do you have oily skin, blemishes or acne? Since this soap is super mild it doesn't irritate blemishes or acne but, instead, gently cleanses. Most commercial soaps and toners are too harsh and end up irritating blemishes and acne making it worse. This handmade natural soap is sold to a lot of acne sufferers and they have had great success with it!

Goat milk soap is so mild and gentle it can, even, be used on the face. Research will show that most commercial soaps are not buffered. This means that the pH of the commercial soaps are so far from the pH of the skin that it takes an average of two hours, after being exposed to these soaps, for the skin to return to its normal pH level. Goat milk is a buffer. This means it has a pH very close to that of human skin, so when you use soap with a high percentage of goat milk the pH of your skin doesn't change very much. Your skin doesn't take all of that time to recover. Some people have avoided using all soaps on their face because the facial skin is thin and very sensitive, but these natural handmade soaps can finally offer an alternative to those harsh commercial soaps, even those that are specifically advertised as face products.

Commercial soaps can leave a soapy build-up around the tub or shower. They can leave a mushy mess for you to clean. This is not the case with goat milk soaps. This soap lasts much longer than regular commercial soaps, using a well-drained soap dish. The longevity of this soap is, also, dependant upon the ingredients and formula used by the soap maker. Some goat milk soaps may turn soft and only last a couple of weeks while others will last much longer. The extra care and boost of ingredients put into these natural soaps, by the soap maker, is proof of a high quality product that last longer.

These handmade soaps are offered with fragrances derived from natural extracts or some have no fragrance at all. Some fragrances include: Lavender, Peppy Citrus, Orange Tree, Peppermint Coffee, Monoi de Tahiti, Gardenia Grail, Aloe & Oats and more. There is a no fragrance soap called Au Natural. These soaps offer distinct characteristics and are good for almost any skin care needs.

Super Styling Products For Men's Hair

The market is booming with hair styling products for men. The business of shampoos, conditioners, gels and several other beauty products, specifically meant for men, is flourishing day by day. In fact, guys are spending a lot of money at spas and grooming parlors. With the ever-increasing demand for specialized men’s grooming products, the market of these products is also thriving. Gone are those days, when boys used to apply oil on hair and style it in the 'simple gentlemen' look. Now, with the availability of umpteen numbers of hair products in the market, style is more in. However, there is also a lot of confusion about what to use and what not. If you are also looking for something that suits your persona and hair care needs, we have given an idea of all the available categories of hair styling products for men, in the lines below. Read on to explore how to choose hair products for men.

Choosing Styling Products For Men's Hair
There are various kinds of hair products for men available in the market, right from fixatives to pliable. Also, there are hair-products available for all kinds of hair - thick, fine, curl, straight, as well as wavy. You can choose your hair products depending upon the kind of look you want. For example, if you have fine-textured hair and want to give the spiky look, you can’t do without the fixatives. On the other hand, if you have a rough hair texture and you want it to be soft (so that some cute girl can her hands through it), go with the pliable products.

Types Of Product

Fixatives

Gels
It is generally good to use water-based gel, if you want to get a wet and sleek look. However, please restrain yourself from buying a cheap hair gel, because it might make your hair break or flake off. The key to choosing the right hair gel for you is ‘the finer the hair, the lighter the product’. If you use a strong gel on fine hair, it will weigh down.

Hair Sprays
Hair sprays are basically meant to lock in the best hairstyles. Basically a hair spray is used as a finishing product. As in case of a gel, you need to select the product keeping in mind your hair type. If you have fine hair, even a light spray would be useful. If you are concerned about the natural luster of your hair, use hair sprays with sunscreen element.

Pliables
Pomades
Pomades are hair styling products that can be either water or wax based. They are basically used to give a wet, glossy look to the hair. They make a great option if you have thick hard hair. It can be used for shorter hair, in case shine is required. However, if you use pomades on fine hair, they will make it look greasy and limp.

Waxes
Waxes are very much like pomade, but tend to be harder. They are petroleum based and prove to be great for providing shine. You can use them for controlling short haircuts, like flattops and buzzcuts. They are also great, if you need to manage your exceptionally thick hair. Avoid using wax on your fine hair; otherwise you will end up with a sticky, greasy look.

Fibers
Very much like the pomades and waxes, a mud (or fiber) is used when control is required. Fibers give a matte finish to the hair, so they are very good for those who want the ‘right from bed’ kind of look. You can even give texture to short, disheveled hairstyles and add separation to long styles, with the help of fibers.

Creams
Creams are good for almost all kinds of hair. If you want to add shine to your hard and dull hair, they serve as a good option. For adding a little shine to your fine hair, a very small amount of cream will be enough. This product is also nice for curly hair, if you want to give it a shiny look and keep your curls together.

Tips
--If you have fine hair, avoid using greasy products.

--People with hard hair should avoid permanent usage of gel.

--Excess usage of fixatives or wax based products can lead to premature graying of hair.

--After you have come back from the party, make sure to wash off your hair and let it dry, so that your hair pores can breathe properly.

Yoga Can Boost Health For A Breast Cancer Woman

A new study recently revealed that special Yoga classes could improve the overall well being of breast cancer patients, thus initiating faster recovery. A study by Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York has said that Yoga tremendously helped giving boost to women who were receiving treatment for breast cancer. This was particularly effective in those women who were not taking chemotherapy.

The women who participated in the study reportedly enjoyed the whole experience and it helped them come over the trauma of cancer in a positive way. It was well received by the patients and proved to be very helpful. The study was conducted on a group of 128 women who belonged to the low-income category. The classes were conducted thrice a week and those who participated were taught simple exercises to be done at home also. The exercises were based on Hatha-Yoga and were specially designed for women who came for treatment of breast cancer.

The exercises were taught while the patients were either sitting on a chair or were lying down. It was clearly found that the women experienced calm mind and had significant improvement in their general quality of life. Their distress was greatly reduced and their emotional, spiritual and social well-being improved for the better. It was added that the exercises were to be performed only under experts’ supervision and the patients interested in Yoga should contact their doctors first.

Choose Your Riht Bra If You Have A Small Breast

Finding the right bra for any woman can be an impossible mission. As a plus size woman with petite breasts looking for a bra is pure hell. I share with you a few no-fuss tips for getting that perfect fit.

--- Before doing anything make sure you have the right size for your bra. This can be done by measuring the length around right up under the breat and around the back. This will determine the number of your bra size. Then measure around but this time move the measuring tape right over the breast. This will determine your cup letter. If its too much just go to your local Lane Bryant or Victorias Secret. They generally offer free bra fitting services.

---Go to a either Ashley Stewarts or Lane Bryant and try on sevral bras in your size. They offer bras from 36-40 in cups B-J. Go a size up or down depending on fit to adjust comfort. If you want to enhance cleavage stick to demi bras or deep-plunge styles. If you like a natural look stick with full coverage or soft cups with underwire.

---If you are shopping online make sure you check the specific sites sizing charts since they dont all cut their bras the same. Call customer service if nevessary and ask if they are true to size.

---Try to pick colors that flatter your skin color and match your undies or better yet buy some new ones while you're there. Choose bras with thicker side bands so you can prevent that little bit of fat from flapping over your bra strap.

---Go home and try on all your bras with different shirts and dresses to feel and see the difference. Show off your new sexy cleavage with confidence.

Find The Ideal Bra

Whether you choose a bra to enhance, minimize, support or show off your bust, fit is crucial. It's the key to keeping you comfortable and supporting your breasts properly. Here are a few steps to finding the ideal bra.

Step 1 Use a measuring tape to measure around your bare rib cage, just beneath your naked breasts. This number indicates the band size most appropriate for your figure.

Step 2 Measure the widest part of your bust, sliding the tape around the middle of your back. Hold the tape as level as possible to ensure accuracy.

Step 3 Note the difference between the two measurements. Use the following as a guide, and try on a range of sizes above and below your measurement: If your bust measurement is up to 1 /2 inch larger than your band size, then your cup size is an AA. A measurement of 1 /2 inch to 1 inch more than the band size indicates an A cup, 1 to 2 inches indicates a B cup, 2 to 3 inches indicates a C cup, 3 to 4 inches indicates a D cup, and 4 to 5 inches indicates a DD or E cup.

Step 4 Select a range of bras according to your band and cup size.

Step 5 Try on a bra. Place your hands through the straps and bend over to allow your breasts to fall into the cups. The cups should contain your breasts'unless you're trying a demibra or an enhancing bra'and should center your nipple in the fullest part.

Step 6 Close the bra using the middle hook. Look for a band that fits snugly but doesn't cut into your rib cage. If it's too tight, try adjusting the hook closure before proceeding to a larger size.

Step 7 Adjust the straps so the band fits comfortably under the breasts and around the rib cage. If the bra seems to slip forward, if you find yourself pulling up on the straps, or if it feels as if your breasts are falling out of the bottom of the cups, the band size is too big.

Step 8 Check the fabric or bridge between your breasts. This should lie flat on the breastbone. If it sticks up or stabs your breastbone uncomfortably, try a larger cup size. If it puckers, try a smaller size.

Step 9 Move up a cup size if your breasts bulge from the bra. Move down a size if you notice wrinkles in the cup material.

8 Steps to Apply Great Eyeliner

Step 1 Choose an eyeliner appropriate for your eye color. Brown, navy and charcoal accent light eyes well, while brown and plum shades flatter brown eyes. Make sure your liner complements the color of your shadow.

Step 2 Consider the type of look you're after. Pencil eyeliner gives your eyes soft definition, while liquid versions offer precision and drama. You can also moisten dark eye shadow and apply it with a small, flat brush.

Step 3 Prepare a cake liner or a dark eye shadow by applying a small amount of water to your brush. Or, if you're using a pencil eyeliner, ensure that you've sharpened the pencil adequately.

Step 4 Move the wet brush gently through your cake liner or dark shadow. Hold the brush or pencil as you would hold a pen.

Step 5 Tilt your head back slightly and bring your eyes to a half-open state. This creates a good angle for application, while allowing you to see what you're doing.

Step 6 Draw a line across the upper lid just above the lashes, from the inside corner to the outside corner of the eye. If you're using liquid liner, allow it to dry before opening your eyes all the way, or the color may transfer into the crease of your eye.

Step 7 If you used a brush or a pencil, soften the look by gently smudging the line with your brush, a cotton swab or your finger.

Step 8 Line the lower lids. Moving from the outside edge inward, draw a line on the outer two-thirds of the lid or more, depending on the look you're going for. Your line should be slightly thicker at the outside corner, becoming thinner as it moves in toward your nose. Using your brush or pencil, lightly stroke the area. If using a liquid liner, apply it in one smooth stroke. Apply less color so your eyes don't appear raccoonlike.

Deep Condition Your Hair In A Simple Way

Combat the damage of chemical treatments, coloring, heat styling and environmental pollution by deep-conditioning your hair on a regular basis. This will help replenish lost moisture and keep locks shiny and resilient.

Step 1 Assess your hair's needs and the time you have available. Different formulas offer different levels of conditioning, and treatment time can range from 2 to 60 minutes.

Step 2 Select a formula that best suits you, then consult your stylist to insure that the conditioner you've chosen will not interfere with your color treatment.

Step 3 Shampoo your hair. Towel dry, absorbing all excess moisture.

Step 4 Place a quarter-size amount of conditioner in the palm of your hand. Use more conditioner for longer hair.

Step 5 Rub hands together gently to distribute conditioner.

Step 6 Begin at the hairline and apply conditioner from forehead to ends. Comb through hair for even distribution, applying a little extra to the ends of long tresses.

Step 7 Massage scalp and relax for the time indicated.

Step 8 Rinse thoroughly and style as usual.

Stretch Marks In Weight Loss? ---Here 9 Tips To Help You

One of women's biggest concerns when dieting is the appearance of stretch marks.

They usually happen when the skin is stretched a lot over a short period of time. They can appear during pregnancy and during general weight gain or weight loss. The medical term is stria.

For women they normally appear on parts of the skin where fat is stored like the stomach, breasts, thighs and buttocks.

Stretch marks start as red lines and are slightly lifted on the skin. They are formed in the dermis which is the middle layer of the skin. This part of the skin is actually elastic and helps the skin keep its shape.

However, if the dermis is constantly stretched and has reached its limit, it will break and form into stretch marks. They may become pink, reddish brown or dark brown depending on skin colour and are usually formed in lines similar to scars.

There is no definitive cure for avoiding stretch marks but the following recommendations will help you to avoid them or fade the ones that have appeared:

• Eat foods or take supplements high in vitamins A, E and C in addition to your normal diet. (Note. Pregnant women should avoid taking more than 25,000 IU of vitamin A).

• Add foods or supplements to your diet that are high in zinc and silica which helps form collagen, the supporting fibres that are good for your skin. Foods like beetroots, brown rice, soy beans, leafy green vegetables, whole grains and bell peppers will help.

• Essential fatty acids found in many vegetables, vegetable oils and fish oils help to make cell walls.

• Brushing your skin with a loofah or skin brush when you bathe will stimulate circulation which helps to avoid their formation.

• Massage cocoa butter or vitamin E onto your skin or stretch marks after bathing.

Moisturizer creams containing AHAs (Alpha Hydroxyl Acid) can help reduce their appearance although creams won't necessarily prevent them.

More extreme methods can include:

Laser Treatment: May not remove them but it can help make them less noticeable.

Cosmetic Surgery: Is an extreme and expensive option but it can successfully remove stretch marks.

As a general rule you should massage your skin everyday with a moisturizer in order to improve the blood circulation to encourage new tissue to appear, and to eat healthy foods.

Finally, pregnant women can avoid stretch marks by simply eating enough to nourish themselves and their unborn child with a healthy, well balanced diet of advisable foods.

Use Hair Straightener In A Proper Way

Present generation fashion conscious women appreciate straight hair looks best, and they can achieve this with so many different types of hair straighteners available on the market. The concept of straight hair is not new but old and that too was achieve by few women who dares to take the risk of straightening their hair with iron for clothes and did much damage to their hair. The concept remains the same but the technology has changed that provides hair styling with much safety and ease.

It is amazing to learn that women few years back when there was no tool like hair straightener dared to go beyond any limit to look beautiful and so realizing the necessity of such tool today we have the product in several different forms like curler, hair dryer, hair styler, hair straightener and etc. Always remember that higher quality plate is the most desirable asset of any flat iron as better plates straighten the hair more easily and cause much less damage. Genuine hair straightener has very hard ceramic coatings that are sprayed in layers and baked. This tends to perform best. While less expensive units usually do not have ceramic, heating elements and some may have a paint-like coating that gives the appearance of ceramic plating. The shortcomings of these hair accessories are that the cheaper coatings wear off very quickly and cause more damage to the hair and using these appliances will surely damage your hair.

There are two types of hair damages that these flat irons may create and they are damage due to heat and mechanical damage. Heat damage and mechanical damage can be avoided only if you are happy with what you are born with. Since the hotter the flat iron the better it works in changing the original structure of the hair forcibly so heat damage is unavoidable but since we are living in this modern era where creating fashion statement is important so everyone of us desire to look best paying attention to our look especially so we cannot avoid this. Next is the mechanical damage and that can be avoid with smoother plates. Hair straightener with ceramic plates is safe for your hair. You will come across several cheap hair straightener that looks like the original but their plates are made of aluminum and coated with something such as a hard ceramic coating. It gives you the impression of original hair straightener and anyone can get ditched especially if anyone is new to this field. With few use the cheaper coatings wear off and the level of mechanical damage increases that leads to split ends, hair breakage and many other hair problems.

We can do something to minimize the damage. First, you must focus on purchasing a quality product and not the cheap one that fake and does not guarantee safety and replacement if there is any problem. People exclaim at the selling price of the quality hair straightener but they are justifiable. Next we must follow the instructions strictly that comes with the product and try to use these appliances when required. Also must follow hair care regime properly to keep our hair in healthy condition. Following these steps will surely make our hair straightening experience enjoyable.

Great Hairstyles For Black Hair In 2009

Look your best with the best of the year's hottest trends - Here's a look at the 5 hot black hair styles for 2009!

Just like the trends in fashion which changes from season to season, the trendiest styles that you can wear also vary from year to year. The good thing about going with the trend as far as your black hair is concerned is that you can easily update your look or give yourself a makeover without having to spend hundreds of dollars on an updated wardrobe.

All you need is visit the stylist for a good, trend hair cut that will suit the shape of your face. Then, with the help of some styling tools and products, you can use a variety of looks to suit your mood, your outfit and the occasion!

The 5 Hottest Black Hair Styles for 2009

We may already be halfway 2009, but that does not mean that it's too late for you to wear the year's latest trends in black hair styles. In fact, now is as good a time as any to update your look - because the trends will surely change by the end of the year.

So what are some of the hottest and trendiest black hair styles that you can wear to update your look? Here's a quick look at the 5 best styles that you can try:

Pixie Cuts

If you have really short hair, one of the best and hottest black hair styles that you can sport is the updated pixie cut. Feel as glamorous as Audrey Hepburn back in the days. However, this time it will be more Rihanna-esque rather than classic because the pixie cut that your stylist will give you has more of a geometric shape to it.

The pixie cuts of today can range from ones which look really soft, to a razor cut which has an almost rock edge to it. The good thing about this hot and trendy look is that it is low maintenance and fuss-free. You can wake up in the morning, spend a few minutes styling it and you'll be instantly ready to face the day - with a hot and glamorous look to boot!

Black Bobs

The "bob" that Rihanna is sporting is still an 'in' look for the year 2009 - and it's evident by her appearance on TV and all over the mags. All you need to do is ask your stylist to give the Rihanna bob a more modern twist. You can go with or without bangs - just make sure that the length of your bob is something that you will feel comfortable yet gorgeous in.

Ultra-Sleek & Straight

With the popularity of tools like Sedu straightening irons, you don't need to always wear your hair in its natural state - nor do you need to have it chemically straightened, either. Just use a straightening tool (flat iron) to tame your curly or wavy hair and wear your locks in an ultra-sleek, straight style - just like Tyra Banks!

Braided Design

No top hot black hair styles list will ever be complete without including the classic braided hairstyles. What makes braided hair such a classic for black women is that your hair will still be in its natural state. And, once the design is finished, it is a very easy look to keep without a lot of product or styling work.

Sassy Bangs

What's so good about sporting bangs is that there is a suitable cut of bangs for any face shape and hair length. By chopping off a few hair strands as bangs, you can easily update your look without the need to have a complete haircut.

Risks and Benefits of Plastic Surgery

Topical treatments can help improve fine wrinkles and skin texture. However, rapid and dramatic improvements are more likely to be achieved with plastic surgery. But don't rush to schedule your plastic surgery just yet. First, here are some facts you should know.


*Plastic surgery is expensive. In the US, a facelift costs from $6,000 to $15,000.

*Any surgery is potentially dangerous, including plastic surgery. Complications are rare but they do occur, ranging from scarring to fatalities. Plastic surgery may be particularly risky if you have certain health conditions (e.g. diabetes).

*Everyone is different. Some people do much better than others, even when treated by the same plastic surgeon.

*It may take several weeks or months before your face fully recovers from plastic surgery.

*Plastic surgery might adversely affect the physiology of your skin and underlying tissues, speeding up the aging process.

If you decide to undergo plastic surgery, keep in mind the following.

*With plastic surgery, more is not necessarily better. For instance, too tight or too frequent facelifts may create a distorted, unnatural look. The result may be worse than having no plastic surgery at all.

*Find a board certified surgeon with a vast experience in the plastic surgery. Search thoroughly, compare different plastic surgeons, talk to their former patients.

*It is somewhat more risky to have plastic surgery in a surgeon's office than in a hospital. If you are having an in-office plastic surgery, make sure that the facility is accredited by AAAASF (The American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities).

*Plastic surgery does not slow down the aging of the skin but may actually accelerate it. Therefore, plastic surgery is not a substitute for skin rejuvenation measures discussed in various articles at Smart Skin Care Site. Actually, after a plastic surgery you should be even more diligent in preserving your skin's youth.

*Before going for plastic surgery, give a few month try to topical skin rejuvenation treatments (see Treatments section of this site). The results may be dramatic enough to change your mind.

Use Silicon To Enhance Your Beauty Naturally

When the words silicon and beauty are used in the same sentence, one would expect to hear about the controversial silica gel implants for breast enhancement. Surprisingly, there may be a much safer and more natural use of silicon that could benefit your appearance. Namely, food supplements containing bioavailable forms of silicon.

Silicon is an essential trace element required for the formation and maintenance of the connective tissue. In particular, silicon increases tissue levels of hydroxyproline, one of the key amino acids required for the synthesis of collagen and elastin. In fact, several studies demonstrated that addition of bioavailable forms of silicon to tissue culture increases the production of type I collagen. There is some evidence that supplementing bioavailable forms of silicon in humans may improve some parameters of the connective tissue, including skin, nails, hair and cartilage. In one study, researchers from the university of Antwerp, Belgium, investigated the effects of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (10 mg of silicon per day for 20 weeks) on various parameters of the skin, hair and nails. The study involved 50 women and was double-blind and placebo-controlled. The researcher found modest (in the range of 15-20%), but statistically significant improvements in such parameters as skin roughness, firmness and strength. The brittleness of nails and hair decreased.

Further research is required to confirm these findings and find optimal doses, treatment duration and so forth. For those who would rather not wait, a supplement of a bioavailable form of silicon may be worth a try. One such commercially available supplement is choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (e.g. Biosil brand), the form used in the above study.

Silicon is generally well tolerated. Its recommended intake estimates range from 5 to 20 mg per day. Considering that some silicon is contained in the food, it would be wise not to exceed supplemental doses used in the above study - at least until more research is available.

Is there a connection Between Skin and blood sugar

Blood sugar, or more accurately blood glucose level, is a very important aspect of human physiology because glucose is the primary fuel for the central nervous system. If the blood level of glucose drops below a certain point for a long enough period of time, a person will lose consciousness, fall into coma and die. Very high blood glucose seen in diabetes is also harmful, although the immediate consequences are usually less dramatic.

It is less widely known that blood sugar has an important bearing on the aging process. Unfortunately, in addition to being a vital cellular fuel, glucose is also a substance that can cause damage to cells and tissues by randomly reacting with proteins, DNA and other vital molecules. (Scientists call this process glycation). Perhaps the worst consequence of glycation is cross-linking which is the formation of chemical bridges between proteins or other large molecules. A material that undergoes cross-linking usually becomes harder, less elastic and has a tendency to tear or crack. For instance, cross-linking is responsible for hardening of a rubber mat or a garden hose left in the sun. In an aging body, cross-linking causes hardening of arteries, wrinkling of the skin and stiffening of joints. Not surprisingly, diabetics, whose high blood glucose intensifies cross-linking, tend to have more skin damage (as well as vascular and other organ damage) than non-diabetics. However, even mildly high blood sugar promotes the aging process in the long run. This condition, called carbohydarate intolerance (or glucose intolerance) means that one's blood sugar tends to be higher than normal but not high enough to warrant the diagnosis of diabetes. Carbohydrate intolerance is extremely common, affecting up to fifty percent of the population in developed countries. In most carbohydrate intolerant people, fasting blood sugar is normal while blood sugar after meals is higher than it should be.

Research indicates that correcting carbohydrate intolerance is one the most important steps one can take towards slowing down the aging process.

Now, the question is how can one find out whether she has carbohydrate intolerance. An overt diabetes is relatively easy to diagnose. A doctor simply takes your fasting blood glucose to see whether it is elevated. A more sophisticated test called OGGT (oral glucose tolerance test) is needed to diagnose carbohydrate intolerance. First, your fasting blood sugar is measured. Then you are given a meal containing a standard amount of glucose, after which your blood glucose is measured every 30 minutes for 2 or 3 hours. This allows to see how quickly your blood sugar returns to normal after a carbohydrate load. The main risk factors for carbohydrate intolerance are being overweight and age over forty.


Improving carbohydrate tolerance
People who are carbohydratre intolerant can slow down their aging and reduce the risk of diabetes by taking steps to improve their carbohydrate metabolism. Furthermore, we believe that these steps are useful for anyone over thirty as they reduce the risk of developing carbohydratre intolerance or diabetes in the future.

Reducing glycemic effect of meals

As we ingest food, the enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract break it down into small molecules, such as simple sugars, aminoacids and peptides. Many foods, from ice-cream to pizza to pop-corn, contain glucose or other sugars that are converted to glucose in the body. Usually, glucose is in the form of starch, a branched polymer made up of many glucose molecules, or sucrose, a sugar consisting of one glucose and one fructose molecule. As the food is digested, the glucose it contains is released and absorbed into the bloodstream, which causes blood glucose level to rise. (Scientists call this glycemic effect of food.) How dramatic such a rise would be depends on several factors: (1) how much glucose a meal contains; (2) in which form this glucose is (e.g. starch or sugar); (3) are there other food ingredients, such as fiber, that affect the rate glucose absorption. Meals that produce less dramatic rise of blood glucose tend to be better for one's carbohydrate metabolism. Generally, among nutritionally equivalent alternatives, the food with smaller glycemic effect should be preferred. For instance, glycemic effect of a whole grain rye bread is 32 percent smaller than that of the equivalent amount of white bread. Guess which is better for your health!

Fiber

Over the past decades, research has promoted fiber from a nearly useless non-nutrient filler in plant-derived foods to an important food constituent conducive of health and longevity. Chemically, fibers are a diverse group of plant polymers based on polysaccharide chains. In contrast to starch, which is also a type of polysaccharide, fibers cannot be digested by humans, and pass through the gastrointestinal tract fully or partially intact. Large amounts of fiber in the diet make stools soft and bulky.

Fiber came to the spotlight when physicians working in Africa noted a very low incidence of such typical "Western" conditions as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, colon cancer, diverticulosis and hemorrhoids. They also noticed that local population consumed a very high fiber diet -- their stool volume was several times greater than that of people in the West. A role of fiber in preventing diseases and obesity was hypothesized, which spawned abundant research on the subject. Some health benefits of fiber, such as colon cancer prevention, are still controversial. Others, including its ability of fiber to prevent and/or improve carbohydrate tolerance and type II diabetes, are confirmed by solid evidence. Fiber slows down the rate at which glucose is absorbed from food into the bloodstream. This gives the body more time to process carbohydrates, leading to lower blood sugar and better carbohydrate metabolism.

It is estimated that a typical citizen of a developed country consumes about one third of the amount of fiber optimal for health and longevity. Luckily, it is not as difficult to increase one's fiber intake without supplements as many people think. Keep in mind that fiber supplements, especially when used improperly, may cause intestinal obstruction, a serious health problem. (This never happens with high fiber foods though).

Exercise

Regular exercise is known to improve carbohydarate tolerance and have a variety of other health benefits. (And it's fun too!). If exercising outdoors, which is usually more fun than otherwise, make sure to protect you skin from excessive sun and wind exposure.

Supplements

Certain nutrients and botanicals have positive effect on carbohydrate metabolism. For instance, lipoic acid is known to lower blood sugar levels (see also the article about conditionally essential nutrients in this section). Some adaptogens were consistently proven to improve carbohydrate tolerance or even reverse early stages of type II diabetes. Adaptogens are substances that promote successful adaptation of the body to various forms of stress and also normalize various physiological aberrations. Most known adaptogens are derived from plants and are quite safe at commonly used doses.

Drugs

Of course, there are drugs that lower blood sugar. Vritually all of them, however, can have substantial adverse effects. Using glucose-lowering drug in people with confirmed diabetes is a reasonable trade-off. These drugs should not be used in people with mild carbohydrate intolerance. There are far safer things to try!