The Attraction of Pigtails
Very young girls wear their hair in pigtails because their mommies do their hair for them. Of course, this is because the hairstyle is easy and moms just want their little girls to look cute. When girls get older, the pigtails hairstyle is sometimes selected out of choice. This certainly goes for teenagers, but it is also true for young women as they mature into their 20's, and sometimes beyond. This begs the question, "Why?" Why do young women sometimes choose to wear their hair in pigtails?
The possible reasons for pigtails being a hairstyle of choice are many, some more obvious than others. When the weather is hot, getting the hair away from the head is a cooler way to go, and pigtails help immensely. When a girl is short on time and needs to get her hair ready in a jiffy, pigtails are quick and easy. Ladies might wear pigtails as a fashion statement. Or they might wear them because they want to look young, playful, cute, or sexy. (And yes, pigtails can be both cute and sexy at the same time.) Another possibility for pigtails is when a young lady wishes to present herself as an enigma. "Is she a good girl pretending to be bad, or a bad girl trying to look good?" And then there's the best reason for a young woman to wear pigtails: she wants to be a Pigtail Dream Girl at PigtailDreams.com! But seriously, pigtails are an attention getter, and the more mature the woman wearing pigtails, the more attention those pigtails get.
So, why do pigtails attract attention? Let's start with reasons for men liking pigtails. (OK, not all males enjoy pigtails, but most do, even if secretly.) Pigtails represent youth and, in our society, youth is attractive. As I said above, pigtails are cute and sexy, and what man doesn't enjoy a female showing off something cute and sexy? Some men fall for the enigma thing: "Why is this lady wearing pigtails? What is she up to?" Other men, myself included, see a woman in pigtails and think, "Wow, this lady is truly special." But pigtails also attract the attention of other females, who pretty much react the same way that men do, but with additional possible thoughts like, "She's such a child!", "What a slut!", or "Wow, I wish I had the guts to wear pigtails."
So, we see here that there are oodles of reasons for pigtails to be appreciated by pigtail wearers and pigtail observers alike. But I will close with what pigtails mean to me. To me, an adult female with her hair in pigtails screams confidence. This is a lady who is fun-loving, outgoing, bold, and confident. She likes what she has, but knows what else she wants, and is determined to get it. This is a woman with very high self-esteem. There are women all over the world capable of being dream girls, but it takes a truly special lady to have the confidence to be a Pigtail Dream Girl.
Alan Decker is a big fan of pigtails and one of the webmasters at PigtailDreams.com. URL - http://www.pigtaildreams.com Email - alan@pigtaildreams.com More articles at http://magazine.pigtaildreams.com
Monday, November 16, 2009
Rejuvenating Technology for Skin and Body
Rejuvenating Technology for Skin and Body!
Currently, tremendous interest and research are being focussed on anti-oxidants and their role in helping to reverse and prevent free radical damage to the body. Enzymes and anti-oxidants protect the body against the harmful effects of these free oxygen radicals. The best known of such enzymes is called SOD (super-oxide dismutase).
Worldwide studies have shown that people who take anti-oxidants live longer and healthier lives. Anti-oxidants are essential for the removal of free radicals, which can cause premature ageing and can cause diseases such as cancer. Anti-oxidants include vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C and SOD or super-oxide. Because of the polluted environment that we live in, it is not always easy to get access to the natural anti-oxidants like vitamin E and vitamin C.
Rooibos Tea, (Redbush Tea) is well known all over the world and regarded as safe to drink for its health benefits.
Scientists have discovered that the Rooibos plant (Aspalathus linearis) contains nine types of flavonoids. Four of these flavonoids, specifically quercetin, luteolin, isoquercitrin and rutin are very powerful. Flavonoids like the quercetin found in Rooibos, help to neutralise free radicals and in combination with the tea's naturally high Vitamin C content (1,5mg/ml), they act as anti-oxidant compounds thus protecting the body against diseases and premature ageing. Rooibos has Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic properties that can be very helpful in the treatment of eczema. Rooibos is also Caffeine free, Rich in Minerals and Low in Tannin.
Thanks to Rooibos tea's natural powerful, rejuvenating and antioxidant qualities it is also excellent for use in skin and healthcare products. The Annique Rooibos Products contain an Award Winning Rooibos Extract to restore and retard the ageing process. Annique has been utilising the powerful benefits of Rooibos for more than 35 years in skin and baby care, and health capsules.
Retrieve your youthful skin and stay healthy with the unique Annique Rooibos Range! www.AnniqueUK.co.uk
Currently, tremendous interest and research are being focussed on anti-oxidants and their role in helping to reverse and prevent free radical damage to the body. Enzymes and anti-oxidants protect the body against the harmful effects of these free oxygen radicals. The best known of such enzymes is called SOD (super-oxide dismutase).
Worldwide studies have shown that people who take anti-oxidants live longer and healthier lives. Anti-oxidants are essential for the removal of free radicals, which can cause premature ageing and can cause diseases such as cancer. Anti-oxidants include vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C and SOD or super-oxide. Because of the polluted environment that we live in, it is not always easy to get access to the natural anti-oxidants like vitamin E and vitamin C.
Rooibos Tea, (Redbush Tea) is well known all over the world and regarded as safe to drink for its health benefits.
Scientists have discovered that the Rooibos plant (Aspalathus linearis) contains nine types of flavonoids. Four of these flavonoids, specifically quercetin, luteolin, isoquercitrin and rutin are very powerful. Flavonoids like the quercetin found in Rooibos, help to neutralise free radicals and in combination with the tea's naturally high Vitamin C content (1,5mg/ml), they act as anti-oxidant compounds thus protecting the body against diseases and premature ageing. Rooibos has Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic properties that can be very helpful in the treatment of eczema. Rooibos is also Caffeine free, Rich in Minerals and Low in Tannin.
Thanks to Rooibos tea's natural powerful, rejuvenating and antioxidant qualities it is also excellent for use in skin and healthcare products. The Annique Rooibos Products contain an Award Winning Rooibos Extract to restore and retard the ageing process. Annique has been utilising the powerful benefits of Rooibos for more than 35 years in skin and baby care, and health capsules.
Retrieve your youthful skin and stay healthy with the unique Annique Rooibos Range! www.AnniqueUK.co.uk
How to Have Great Looking Skin
How to Have Great Looking Skin
Great skin is something that nearly everyone can cultivate. Our skin is affected by our:
. Genes
. Inner nutrition - what we eat and drink
. Exercise
. General health and well-being
. Emotional health, and
. Outer nutrition - how we take care of our skin
While we can't alter our genes, we can improve our skin by making the necessary adjustments in the areas we can influence. Read on to discover the basic components of a healthy outer nutritional plan for your skin.
If you seriously want great skin the very first thing to do and wear a hat and good quality sunscreen when out in the sunshine. Having said that, let's move on to understand the next three basic foundations to great skin.
If you want your skin to look and feel great, careful cleansing is very important. This should be done first thing in the morning and last thing at night to remove pore-clogging dirt. Don't cleanse enough and you could find yourself prone to spots. Cleanse to often and you could be stripping away essential oils and be susceptible to dry skin or even eczema. Understanding your skin type (normal, dry or oily) and using a cleanser to match is the best foundation for great looking skin. Remember to rinse your face with warm water after using a cleanser, as any residue will continue to work on the skin if not completely removed.
Our grandmother's used soap and water?isn't that good enough? Soap is not very good at removing makeup because it does not contain enough oils to dissolve the staying power that most cosmetics have today. Remember the 'tight' feeling after your have washed your fact with soap? Soap can be very drying on your skin and may wash away essential oils. Another reason not to use soap is that it is not matched to the natural balance of our skin. Soap is generally alkaline, whilst skin is naturally acidic.
The second step to great outer nutrition for your skin is to tone. Toners are designed to remove any last traces of cleanser, while also helping to tighten and refine pores and prevent the build-up of dead skin cells. After toning your skin should fee and look revitalised and refreshed, and ready to be moisturised. Again you will need to apply a toner that matches your skin type.
The third foundation step is to apply moisturiser to help restore the moisture loss caused by the drying effects of sunlight, central heating, wind, cold and pollution. A good daytime moisturiser would contain a sunscreen and will be easily absorbed into the skin. At night you should use a richer, more nourishing cream, as this is when your skin more readily absorbs moisture.
Despite the plethora of products on the market and the myriad of additives?. the most important ingredient of any moisturiser is water! If water is just splashed on the skin it will not say there. Moisturisers are basically oil and water emulsions which contain a humectant (a substance added to another to make it moist), which attracts water and helps 'fix' it in the upper layers of the skin.
Moisture that is lost firm the skin needs to be replaced quickly so that the surface of the skin is kept both soft and smooth. The living cells in the layers need water so that they will not shrivel up and die. A moisturiser can protect the skin by providing a varier between the skin and the external environment. It also prevents the loss of moisture from the deeper layers of the skin.
Should people who have oily skin use a moisturiser? Moisturisers are particularly recommended for people with dry skin but everyone can benefit from using a moisturiser. You simply need to ensure that you choose the correct moisturiser for your skin type. People with oily skin should choose a moisturiser that hydrates their skin whilst helping absorb any excess oil.
(c) Copyright Kim Beardsmore
Kim Beardsmore enjoys the flexibility of working from home. Are you interested in earning money from home? We're looking for individuals who have basic phone and internet skills to join our team of work-at-home-ers. If you're serious about earning money from home and are willing to work (this isn't 'get rich quick'), then we'd like to help you grow a profitable business. We offer complete training, online and offline resources and a partnership for success. http://free2liv.com/?refid=EA-567883386
Great skin is something that nearly everyone can cultivate. Our skin is affected by our:
. Genes
. Inner nutrition - what we eat and drink
. Exercise
. General health and well-being
. Emotional health, and
. Outer nutrition - how we take care of our skin
While we can't alter our genes, we can improve our skin by making the necessary adjustments in the areas we can influence. Read on to discover the basic components of a healthy outer nutritional plan for your skin.
If you seriously want great skin the very first thing to do and wear a hat and good quality sunscreen when out in the sunshine. Having said that, let's move on to understand the next three basic foundations to great skin.
If you want your skin to look and feel great, careful cleansing is very important. This should be done first thing in the morning and last thing at night to remove pore-clogging dirt. Don't cleanse enough and you could find yourself prone to spots. Cleanse to often and you could be stripping away essential oils and be susceptible to dry skin or even eczema. Understanding your skin type (normal, dry or oily) and using a cleanser to match is the best foundation for great looking skin. Remember to rinse your face with warm water after using a cleanser, as any residue will continue to work on the skin if not completely removed.
Our grandmother's used soap and water?isn't that good enough? Soap is not very good at removing makeup because it does not contain enough oils to dissolve the staying power that most cosmetics have today. Remember the 'tight' feeling after your have washed your fact with soap? Soap can be very drying on your skin and may wash away essential oils. Another reason not to use soap is that it is not matched to the natural balance of our skin. Soap is generally alkaline, whilst skin is naturally acidic.
The second step to great outer nutrition for your skin is to tone. Toners are designed to remove any last traces of cleanser, while also helping to tighten and refine pores and prevent the build-up of dead skin cells. After toning your skin should fee and look revitalised and refreshed, and ready to be moisturised. Again you will need to apply a toner that matches your skin type.
The third foundation step is to apply moisturiser to help restore the moisture loss caused by the drying effects of sunlight, central heating, wind, cold and pollution. A good daytime moisturiser would contain a sunscreen and will be easily absorbed into the skin. At night you should use a richer, more nourishing cream, as this is when your skin more readily absorbs moisture.
Despite the plethora of products on the market and the myriad of additives?. the most important ingredient of any moisturiser is water! If water is just splashed on the skin it will not say there. Moisturisers are basically oil and water emulsions which contain a humectant (a substance added to another to make it moist), which attracts water and helps 'fix' it in the upper layers of the skin.
Moisture that is lost firm the skin needs to be replaced quickly so that the surface of the skin is kept both soft and smooth. The living cells in the layers need water so that they will not shrivel up and die. A moisturiser can protect the skin by providing a varier between the skin and the external environment. It also prevents the loss of moisture from the deeper layers of the skin.
Should people who have oily skin use a moisturiser? Moisturisers are particularly recommended for people with dry skin but everyone can benefit from using a moisturiser. You simply need to ensure that you choose the correct moisturiser for your skin type. People with oily skin should choose a moisturiser that hydrates their skin whilst helping absorb any excess oil.
(c) Copyright Kim Beardsmore
Kim Beardsmore enjoys the flexibility of working from home. Are you interested in earning money from home? We're looking for individuals who have basic phone and internet skills to join our team of work-at-home-ers. If you're serious about earning money from home and are willing to work (this isn't 'get rich quick'), then we'd like to help you grow a profitable business. We offer complete training, online and offline resources and a partnership for success. http://free2liv.com/?refid=EA-567883386
Going Beyond Benzoyl Peroxide
Going Beyond Benzoyl Peroxide
Millions of people suffer from acne in the United States alone, and many of these acne suffers use Benzoyl Peroxide as the acne treatment medication of choice.
It is generally safe, has very few side effects, and it has been proven to be the most effective over the counter acne treatment.
However, there are many more people who have more severe, or particularly resilient acne that is not susceptible to over the counter medications such as Benzoyl Peroxide.
Some of the most effective acne medications are available via prescription only. However, these are truly the "heavy guns" in the fight against acne, and are well worth looking into for anyone who has chronic or severe acne breakouts.
The most commonly prescribed acne medications are antibiotics such as Erythromycin and Trimethroprim. These are generally more effective than over the counter treatments because they work by treating the source of acne, the acne causing p.bacteria. Many acne sufferers find antibiotics work well for them in treating acne, and have fewer breakouts because of them.
However, one of the big drawbacks from using antibiotics is developing an immunity to them. This means that over time, the antibiotics are less effective in treating not only acne, but any form of bacterial infection including diseases such as strep throat and even some STD's. This should be considered before undergoing an antibiotic regime to treat acne.
Another alternative is Retin A. Retin A is a topical acne treatment, and a derivative of Vitamin A. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, Retin A has been proven to be effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as acne and some acne scarring. Retin A is generally more effective in treating acne than antibiotics.
However, Retin A is not without side effects either. The skin becomes more sensitive to the sun, and exposure to the sun can be very damaging. Also, people with sensitive skin or a skin disorder such as eczema can experience severe redness, skin flaking, and irritation. In spite of this, most people who use Retin A find they are satisfied with the results, and don't find the side effects overwhelming.
The most effective acne treatment currently available is Accutane. Accutane is also a derivative of Vitamin A, and is taken orally. It has been referred to as the acne "wonder drug", and for good reason. The majority of people who complete a 15-20 week session experience greatly reduced acne for years, and some never again have acne.
Accutane works by stopping sebum production in the skin. With no sebum, the acne causing p.bacteria do not have any way to grow. This results in clear skin, sometimes for life.
However, Accutane is not without side effects. The most severe are birth defects and mental disorders, such as psychosis and suicide. Dry skin, severe headaches, and hair loss are also common side effects. Though accutane is the most effective acne medication, it should only be used as a last resort, under close medical supervision.
Though there are other medications that are more effective than benzoyl peroxide, these are the most commonly prescribed, and are all worth consideration if one is experiencing severe acne. As always, a medical doctor should be consulted before trying any medication.
Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and editor of http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com
Millions of people suffer from acne in the United States alone, and many of these acne suffers use Benzoyl Peroxide as the acne treatment medication of choice.
It is generally safe, has very few side effects, and it has been proven to be the most effective over the counter acne treatment.
However, there are many more people who have more severe, or particularly resilient acne that is not susceptible to over the counter medications such as Benzoyl Peroxide.
Some of the most effective acne medications are available via prescription only. However, these are truly the "heavy guns" in the fight against acne, and are well worth looking into for anyone who has chronic or severe acne breakouts.
The most commonly prescribed acne medications are antibiotics such as Erythromycin and Trimethroprim. These are generally more effective than over the counter treatments because they work by treating the source of acne, the acne causing p.bacteria. Many acne sufferers find antibiotics work well for them in treating acne, and have fewer breakouts because of them.
However, one of the big drawbacks from using antibiotics is developing an immunity to them. This means that over time, the antibiotics are less effective in treating not only acne, but any form of bacterial infection including diseases such as strep throat and even some STD's. This should be considered before undergoing an antibiotic regime to treat acne.
Another alternative is Retin A. Retin A is a topical acne treatment, and a derivative of Vitamin A. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, Retin A has been proven to be effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as acne and some acne scarring. Retin A is generally more effective in treating acne than antibiotics.
However, Retin A is not without side effects either. The skin becomes more sensitive to the sun, and exposure to the sun can be very damaging. Also, people with sensitive skin or a skin disorder such as eczema can experience severe redness, skin flaking, and irritation. In spite of this, most people who use Retin A find they are satisfied with the results, and don't find the side effects overwhelming.
The most effective acne treatment currently available is Accutane. Accutane is also a derivative of Vitamin A, and is taken orally. It has been referred to as the acne "wonder drug", and for good reason. The majority of people who complete a 15-20 week session experience greatly reduced acne for years, and some never again have acne.
Accutane works by stopping sebum production in the skin. With no sebum, the acne causing p.bacteria do not have any way to grow. This results in clear skin, sometimes for life.
However, Accutane is not without side effects. The most severe are birth defects and mental disorders, such as psychosis and suicide. Dry skin, severe headaches, and hair loss are also common side effects. Though accutane is the most effective acne medication, it should only be used as a last resort, under close medical supervision.
Though there are other medications that are more effective than benzoyl peroxide, these are the most commonly prescribed, and are all worth consideration if one is experiencing severe acne. As always, a medical doctor should be consulted before trying any medication.
Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and editor of http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com
Create a Spa Retreat at Home
Create a Spa Retreat at Home!
In today's high-stress world, a visit to a spa can provide a much needed renewal for your mind, body and soul. If you don't have the time and/or money to head to the nearest spa or resort, consider creating your own. Experience the benefits of a day at the spa by creating a near-professional spa in your own home. Here are some ideas for transforming you bathroom into a relaxing spa retreat.
SPA TREATMENTS
Widely used in spas, bath salts or salt scrubs made with sea salts are wonderful for their detoxifying properties. The Romans, Greeks and other European cultures have long believed in the benefits of healing through bathing in hotsprings.
SPA TOOLS
If you're giving yourself a body treatment, have a body brush, loofah or sponge within easy reach. One of the best ways to revive skin is to exfoliate before you get in the shower. The ancient spas of Japan were known for their dry brushing techniques. Gently brush your body using circular motions with a soft body brush, starting at the feet and working your way up. This light brushing technique removes dead skin cells while stimulating circulation.
DRY OFF
Pamper yourself with classic and elegant spa garb - a luxuriously thick white terrycloth robe. If you don't have a robe handy, find your fluffiest, softest towel. For an unmatched toasty treat, heat your robe or towel in the dryer before using.
MOISTURIZE
Water from the bath has a drying effect on the skin. To make the most of your skin replenishment, keep a special body lotion for spa days - one with an aroma that you enjoy.
Chere Deshayes is the president of Bath Plantation, a company that specializes in handcrafted bath and spa products. Subscribe to her FREE newsletter at http://www.bathplantation.com/newsletter.html or visit her site at http://www.bathplantation.com.
In today's high-stress world, a visit to a spa can provide a much needed renewal for your mind, body and soul. If you don't have the time and/or money to head to the nearest spa or resort, consider creating your own. Experience the benefits of a day at the spa by creating a near-professional spa in your own home. Here are some ideas for transforming you bathroom into a relaxing spa retreat.
SPA TREATMENTS
Widely used in spas, bath salts or salt scrubs made with sea salts are wonderful for their detoxifying properties. The Romans, Greeks and other European cultures have long believed in the benefits of healing through bathing in hotsprings.
SPA TOOLS
If you're giving yourself a body treatment, have a body brush, loofah or sponge within easy reach. One of the best ways to revive skin is to exfoliate before you get in the shower. The ancient spas of Japan were known for their dry brushing techniques. Gently brush your body using circular motions with a soft body brush, starting at the feet and working your way up. This light brushing technique removes dead skin cells while stimulating circulation.
DRY OFF
Pamper yourself with classic and elegant spa garb - a luxuriously thick white terrycloth robe. If you don't have a robe handy, find your fluffiest, softest towel. For an unmatched toasty treat, heat your robe or towel in the dryer before using.
MOISTURIZE
Water from the bath has a drying effect on the skin. To make the most of your skin replenishment, keep a special body lotion for spa days - one with an aroma that you enjoy.
Chere Deshayes is the president of Bath Plantation, a company that specializes in handcrafted bath and spa products. Subscribe to her FREE newsletter at http://www.bathplantation.com/newsletter.html or visit her site at http://www.bathplantation.com.
Beauty Today: All Smoke and Mirrors
Beauty Today: All Smoke and Mirrors?
Did you ever notice that the bar is continually being raised on exactly what physical characteristics define beauty? As I sit in front of the TV, I am bombarded by beauties with pouty lips, perfect bone structure, flawless skin, more "voluptuous" upper regions, size 2 waists, and hair that resembles spun silk. Take these same beauties and plop them back in time 20-30 years, when the advent of modern cosmetic technology had not even begun to reach its full potential. Do you think they would have had those same attributes you find yourself longing for when faced with these images? My guess is probably not, or at least not to the same extent.
True, genetics play a role in physical beauty, but with the likes of total "extreme" makeover reality TV (The Swan, Extreme Makeover, Dr. Beverly Hills) and abundant publicity, we see that beauty and cosmetic improvement can now be achieved by a few thousand dollars and a good plastic surgeon. Not only that, but cosmetics in general are now so technologically advanced, you can improve your looks by personal makeup application and home treatments.
There are now do-it-yourself cosmetic treatments such as home microdermabrasion kits, chemical peels, "botox" creams and gels, teeth whiteners, hair removal treatments, cellulite treatments, professional hair straighteners and colors, self tanners, lip enlargers, acne treatments, and the list goes on and on. Cosmetics marketers and science have joined forces to give women everything they ever wanted to be their most beautiful, and feel better about themselves. Women are benefitting by so many companies competing for a piece of these fairly new markets by lower, more competitive prices.
Not only are there new breakthroughs in the world of cosmetic science, but there are constantly new studies and discoveries in the field of nutrition, fitness, and wellness. Combine this with the new wave of technologically advanced cosmetics, supplements, and treatments, and you've got a recipe for a healthier, longer, more satisfying life for those of us who decide to take advantage of the advanced knowledge of our time.
So, does your desire to be your best and most beautiful self make you shallow, less credible, or somehow jeopardize your feminist agendas? Unless you've somehow compromised your integrity, morals, or core beliefs along the way, the answer is ABSOLUTELY NOT! As long as you are not putting yourself at high risk for physical harm, obsessing endlessly, or spending your life savings, investing time and money into your beauty ultimately is an investment in your well being, self esteem, and many times, mental and physical health. Feeling beautiful is part of what makes us women. Come on, it's just plain FUN to experiment with different looks and different products! It feels good to be noticed, and when you feel beautiful, you tend to radiate confidence and power. It is inherent in our nature to want to feel feminine and look and feel our best, and there is nothing wrong with it, as long as it is not all-consuming.
As a self-proclaimed "product junkie", I can attest that many of these newly engineered products really do work, as I have tried nearly all of them in the quest to look and feel my best. I can't wait to see what they'll come out with next, as every new product seems to top the last. Hey, women have come a long way, and we deserve to feel sexy and confident - beyond smoke and mirrors!
Danna Schneider, Webmaster
Provides unbiased cosmetic and beauty product reviews, along with sophisticated beauty and makeup advice, through her website http://www.cosmeticsgalore.com
Did you ever notice that the bar is continually being raised on exactly what physical characteristics define beauty? As I sit in front of the TV, I am bombarded by beauties with pouty lips, perfect bone structure, flawless skin, more "voluptuous" upper regions, size 2 waists, and hair that resembles spun silk. Take these same beauties and plop them back in time 20-30 years, when the advent of modern cosmetic technology had not even begun to reach its full potential. Do you think they would have had those same attributes you find yourself longing for when faced with these images? My guess is probably not, or at least not to the same extent.
True, genetics play a role in physical beauty, but with the likes of total "extreme" makeover reality TV (The Swan, Extreme Makeover, Dr. Beverly Hills) and abundant publicity, we see that beauty and cosmetic improvement can now be achieved by a few thousand dollars and a good plastic surgeon. Not only that, but cosmetics in general are now so technologically advanced, you can improve your looks by personal makeup application and home treatments.
There are now do-it-yourself cosmetic treatments such as home microdermabrasion kits, chemical peels, "botox" creams and gels, teeth whiteners, hair removal treatments, cellulite treatments, professional hair straighteners and colors, self tanners, lip enlargers, acne treatments, and the list goes on and on. Cosmetics marketers and science have joined forces to give women everything they ever wanted to be their most beautiful, and feel better about themselves. Women are benefitting by so many companies competing for a piece of these fairly new markets by lower, more competitive prices.
Not only are there new breakthroughs in the world of cosmetic science, but there are constantly new studies and discoveries in the field of nutrition, fitness, and wellness. Combine this with the new wave of technologically advanced cosmetics, supplements, and treatments, and you've got a recipe for a healthier, longer, more satisfying life for those of us who decide to take advantage of the advanced knowledge of our time.
So, does your desire to be your best and most beautiful self make you shallow, less credible, or somehow jeopardize your feminist agendas? Unless you've somehow compromised your integrity, morals, or core beliefs along the way, the answer is ABSOLUTELY NOT! As long as you are not putting yourself at high risk for physical harm, obsessing endlessly, or spending your life savings, investing time and money into your beauty ultimately is an investment in your well being, self esteem, and many times, mental and physical health. Feeling beautiful is part of what makes us women. Come on, it's just plain FUN to experiment with different looks and different products! It feels good to be noticed, and when you feel beautiful, you tend to radiate confidence and power. It is inherent in our nature to want to feel feminine and look and feel our best, and there is nothing wrong with it, as long as it is not all-consuming.
As a self-proclaimed "product junkie", I can attest that many of these newly engineered products really do work, as I have tried nearly all of them in the quest to look and feel my best. I can't wait to see what they'll come out with next, as every new product seems to top the last. Hey, women have come a long way, and we deserve to feel sexy and confident - beyond smoke and mirrors!
Danna Schneider, Webmaster
Provides unbiased cosmetic and beauty product reviews, along with sophisticated beauty and makeup advice, through her website http://www.cosmeticsgalore.com
Bariatric Surgery Contributes to Rise in Body Contouring Procedures in Michiana
Bariatric Surgery Contributes to Rise in Body Contouring Procedures in Michiana
Elkhart, IN - A newly released report from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) details statistics and consumer attitudes toward cosmetic surgery in Indiana, and many of the numbers mirror similar trends in Michiana, according to Dr. Ronald Downs and Dr. Patrick Viscardi of The Centre, P.C.
ASAPS reports that 2003 saw a large increase in the number of body contouring procedures, with liposuction being the number one surgical procedure for both women and men. Other body contouring procedures increased by the following percentages: tummy tucks, 42%; lower body lifts, 127%; thigh lifts, 109%; and upper arm lifts, 68%.
"Some of these increases are attributable to the rise in bariatric surgery," said Dr. Ronald Downs, a member of ASAPS. Bariatric surgery is a relatively new procedure that helps people lose massive amounts of weight. "Such massive weight loss can leave skin sagging, so people choose these body contouring procedures to remove excess skin and fat. We are seeing that bariatric surgery in Michiana is also on the upswing."
As Indiana consumers continue to become more focused on looks, the facial procedures are also rising. The popularity of Botox in Indiana, for example, contributed to a dramatic rise nationwide in nonsurgical procedures (a 22% increase in 2003). Surgical facial procedures were also up by the following percentages: eyelid surgery in Elkhart and forehead lift in Michiana, 17% each; facelifts, 1% (the number of facelifts on men increased by 23%).
"We are finding that new techniques that help reduce recovery time for many facial procedures contribute to an increase in their popularity," said Dr. Patrick Viscardi. "Most people find a lengthy recovery period inconvenient and costly. With these new techniques, people are back to their daily lifestyle more quickly."
The Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank, sponsored by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is the most comprehensive collection of data available on the number of surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. ASAPS is the only organization providing 7-year multi-specialty data on the 38 top cosmetic procedures in Indiana. To see the complete set of ASAPS statistics go to www.surgery.org. The Centre, P.C. is a comprehensive Indiana plastic surgery practice that delivers expert professional care to patients in the Michiana area. With specialists in the fields of hand surgery and therapy, reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery and skin health, The Centre offers a unique variety of services and treatment options, including an Injury Prevention Program for businesses and their employees. Contact The Centre, P.C. at 574.296.9100 or visit http://www.thecentrepc.com, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons at plasticsurgery.org, or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at surgery.org. Imagine the Possibilities??
Elkhart, IN - A newly released report from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) details statistics and consumer attitudes toward cosmetic surgery in Indiana, and many of the numbers mirror similar trends in Michiana, according to Dr. Ronald Downs and Dr. Patrick Viscardi of The Centre, P.C.
ASAPS reports that 2003 saw a large increase in the number of body contouring procedures, with liposuction being the number one surgical procedure for both women and men. Other body contouring procedures increased by the following percentages: tummy tucks, 42%; lower body lifts, 127%; thigh lifts, 109%; and upper arm lifts, 68%.
"Some of these increases are attributable to the rise in bariatric surgery," said Dr. Ronald Downs, a member of ASAPS. Bariatric surgery is a relatively new procedure that helps people lose massive amounts of weight. "Such massive weight loss can leave skin sagging, so people choose these body contouring procedures to remove excess skin and fat. We are seeing that bariatric surgery in Michiana is also on the upswing."
As Indiana consumers continue to become more focused on looks, the facial procedures are also rising. The popularity of Botox in Indiana, for example, contributed to a dramatic rise nationwide in nonsurgical procedures (a 22% increase in 2003). Surgical facial procedures were also up by the following percentages: eyelid surgery in Elkhart and forehead lift in Michiana, 17% each; facelifts, 1% (the number of facelifts on men increased by 23%).
"We are finding that new techniques that help reduce recovery time for many facial procedures contribute to an increase in their popularity," said Dr. Patrick Viscardi. "Most people find a lengthy recovery period inconvenient and costly. With these new techniques, people are back to their daily lifestyle more quickly."
The Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank, sponsored by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is the most comprehensive collection of data available on the number of surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. ASAPS is the only organization providing 7-year multi-specialty data on the 38 top cosmetic procedures in Indiana. To see the complete set of ASAPS statistics go to www.surgery.org. The Centre, P.C. is a comprehensive Indiana plastic surgery practice that delivers expert professional care to patients in the Michiana area. With specialists in the fields of hand surgery and therapy, reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery and skin health, The Centre offers a unique variety of services and treatment options, including an Injury Prevention Program for businesses and their employees. Contact The Centre, P.C. at 574.296.9100 or visit http://www.thecentrepc.com, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons at plasticsurgery.org, or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at surgery.org. Imagine the Possibilities??
Toss It? or Keep It
Toss It? or Keep It?
If you are a product junkie like me then you probably have lotions, creams, tubes of lipstick etc that have been sitting in the same spot untouched for several months or even years. You know the items that you just had to have but then forgot about after the thrill of buying it wore off. This article is intended to be used as a guide for product junkies everywhere to know when a product should be thrown away or kept around for a little while longer.
Everything has a shelf life including our make-up and all other potions and lotions. But there are things you can do to lengthen the life of your products.
1. Keep your products out of the bathroom this includes any prescriptions or over the counter medications too. Humidity can affect the life of all products.
2. Keep away from extreme temperatures including direct sunlight which could change the color and fragrance.
3. Do not share any products unless they come in a pump bottle or new applicator for each use. Bacteria can build up and shorten the life of your product. Or worse cause you to get an infection.
Lotions and Creams
Separation after sitting for a while means the product should be tossed. Smell is also an important factor. If the products smell changes in any way that is a good indication that it has expired. Toss it! Foundations, moisturizers etc all have a shelf life of about a year after opening as long as they are stored properly. If you notice any change in consistency or fragrance it's a pretty safe bet that it is no longer good. If you still have that cover up from when you went to prom do yourself a favor and Toss it!
Fragrances
If stored properly away from heat and cold your favorite scent can last 3 to 5 years. It is a good idea to store fragrances in a cool dark area such as a jewelry box or drawer.
Powders
All types of powders including blush and eye shadow have a pretty long shelf life as long as you use a new or cleaned applicator with each use. Have you ever seen someone's powder compact with a dark film on top? That is an accumulation of oils from the skin that have been trapped in the puff and then absorbed into the powder. Yuck! Avoid this by either washing your applicator regularly or buying a bag of applicators at a dollar store and use a fresh one each time you apply your powder. Powder brushes for loose powder should be cleaned at least once a week to keep your powder fresh.
Pencils
Pencils have a pretty long shelf life because every time you sharpen eyeliner or lip pencil you are exposing new product. It is a good idea to sharpen your pencils at least once a week to remove any contaminants. Do not let your pencils get wet and then dry out again. This may cause mold to form.
Lipsticks and glosses
Bacteria does not thrive on wax based products so these types of products tend to last quit a long time about 1 to 2 years. If you notice "beading" on the surface of your lipstick this indicates that it has been exposed to heat or is aging. Check the color and consistency and if it appears to have changed: Toss it! Lip glosses with wand applicators should never be shared because bacteria can get trapped inside the container. To be on the safe side replace these types of glosses every six months.
Mascara and Liquid Eyeliner
The MAX shelf life for these kinds of products is 3 months!! Do yourself a favor and label your mascara's and liquid eyeliners with the date that it was opened on the package somewhere. Your eye area is one of the most sensitive parts on your body. You do not want to take any chances of getting some sort of infection. It is also a bad idea to share these types of products too. When you use mascara or liner do not pump the wand, this cause air and bacteria to get trapped inside. Instead wipe the sides of the tube to pick up color.
Products like the ones mentioned in this article can make you look and feel you're best but it is important to know that it is not a good idea to keep these types of things for an extended period of time. I would suggest you do a "spring" clean of your make-up bag every three months or so. Then go shopping for new products! You deserve it!
Jennifer Holder is an Independent AVON Representative and a Stay at home mom with two children. She can be contacted by email at avonjen@yahoo.com or by visiting her website at http://www.youravon.com/jenniferholder where you can also find more great tips and advice on health and beauty.
If you are a product junkie like me then you probably have lotions, creams, tubes of lipstick etc that have been sitting in the same spot untouched for several months or even years. You know the items that you just had to have but then forgot about after the thrill of buying it wore off. This article is intended to be used as a guide for product junkies everywhere to know when a product should be thrown away or kept around for a little while longer.
Everything has a shelf life including our make-up and all other potions and lotions. But there are things you can do to lengthen the life of your products.
1. Keep your products out of the bathroom this includes any prescriptions or over the counter medications too. Humidity can affect the life of all products.
2. Keep away from extreme temperatures including direct sunlight which could change the color and fragrance.
3. Do not share any products unless they come in a pump bottle or new applicator for each use. Bacteria can build up and shorten the life of your product. Or worse cause you to get an infection.
Lotions and Creams
Separation after sitting for a while means the product should be tossed. Smell is also an important factor. If the products smell changes in any way that is a good indication that it has expired. Toss it! Foundations, moisturizers etc all have a shelf life of about a year after opening as long as they are stored properly. If you notice any change in consistency or fragrance it's a pretty safe bet that it is no longer good. If you still have that cover up from when you went to prom do yourself a favor and Toss it!
Fragrances
If stored properly away from heat and cold your favorite scent can last 3 to 5 years. It is a good idea to store fragrances in a cool dark area such as a jewelry box or drawer.
Powders
All types of powders including blush and eye shadow have a pretty long shelf life as long as you use a new or cleaned applicator with each use. Have you ever seen someone's powder compact with a dark film on top? That is an accumulation of oils from the skin that have been trapped in the puff and then absorbed into the powder. Yuck! Avoid this by either washing your applicator regularly or buying a bag of applicators at a dollar store and use a fresh one each time you apply your powder. Powder brushes for loose powder should be cleaned at least once a week to keep your powder fresh.
Pencils
Pencils have a pretty long shelf life because every time you sharpen eyeliner or lip pencil you are exposing new product. It is a good idea to sharpen your pencils at least once a week to remove any contaminants. Do not let your pencils get wet and then dry out again. This may cause mold to form.
Lipsticks and glosses
Bacteria does not thrive on wax based products so these types of products tend to last quit a long time about 1 to 2 years. If you notice "beading" on the surface of your lipstick this indicates that it has been exposed to heat or is aging. Check the color and consistency and if it appears to have changed: Toss it! Lip glosses with wand applicators should never be shared because bacteria can get trapped inside the container. To be on the safe side replace these types of glosses every six months.
Mascara and Liquid Eyeliner
The MAX shelf life for these kinds of products is 3 months!! Do yourself a favor and label your mascara's and liquid eyeliners with the date that it was opened on the package somewhere. Your eye area is one of the most sensitive parts on your body. You do not want to take any chances of getting some sort of infection. It is also a bad idea to share these types of products too. When you use mascara or liner do not pump the wand, this cause air and bacteria to get trapped inside. Instead wipe the sides of the tube to pick up color.
Products like the ones mentioned in this article can make you look and feel you're best but it is important to know that it is not a good idea to keep these types of things for an extended period of time. I would suggest you do a "spring" clean of your make-up bag every three months or so. Then go shopping for new products! You deserve it!
Jennifer Holder is an Independent AVON Representative and a Stay at home mom with two children. She can be contacted by email at avonjen@yahoo.com or by visiting her website at http://www.youravon.com/jenniferholder where you can also find more great tips and advice on health and beauty.
Should I Have A Face Lift
Should I Have A Face Lift?
Good question! A face lift is major surgery and surgery means blood, mess, discomfort, stitches and time out to recover. A face lift is expensive too.
There are risks to consider, one is hematoma when the blood collects under the skin and has to be surgically removed. Damage to the nerves that control your facial muscles is another although this is less common. Slow healing time can also be a problem although this is found mainly in smokers. Oh! and don't forget the usual risks that are involved with anesthesia.
On the plus side, the effects of a face lift are quite dramatic. It is without a doubt the fastest and most permanent way of shedding your 'old' face and regaining some of that youthful beauty you were born with..
If you've considered these things and decided that the final outcome is worth it, then proceed, but first please ask yourself these questions.
Why do I want a facelift?
Am I doing this because its going to help me find the job that I really want? This is a valid reason for going ahead. It shouldn't matter to those that hire people how old the applicant is or what they look like, but in the real world we know that these things do play a part. If you have a job that has a lot of public exposure, this may also be a good reason to proceed.
Am I doing this because my partner wants me to? Red alert! Never let anyone else talk you into having a facelift. It is a very personal decision and one only you should make. Ask yourself why are you with someone who values you only for your appearance. Honor yourself, you are more than your face! Perhaps you should be working on your relationship and leaving your face alone!
I'm thirty five and have lots of wrinkles around my eyes and cheeks, and my neck is all mottled
A face lift won't help this situation. You are better off exploring the avenue of laser resurfacing or even chemical peels, they will strip the old layer of skin off and reveal a smoother younger appearance. It sounds like you have a lot of sun damage, get educated on the use of sunblock! Its everybody's most important cosmetic.
I'm depressed and don't feel good about myself. Maybe a facelift will help me feel better?
It may for a little while, but it sounds like you have a self esteem problem. Learn to love yourself the way you are first. Then if you still feel a facelift would give your morale a boost, go ahead.
I'm in my early fifties and notice my face is starting to sag quite badly. I can afford the surgery and reckon I might just do this for myself. A good idea, you've thought it through and decided its something you want not something you need.
Find a professional surgeon in your area and follow all his/her advice on how to prepare for your face lift. Don't forget to mention any medication you are taking and if you are a smoker, stop two weeks before surgery is scheduled. It will speed your recovery time. Good luck!
=========================================================================
Wendy Owen has had a lifetime interest in skin care, skin health and general health. She is in her fifties and still has a great skin. Advice on skin care may be found at: http://www.holistic-facial-skin-care.com
Good question! A face lift is major surgery and surgery means blood, mess, discomfort, stitches and time out to recover. A face lift is expensive too.
There are risks to consider, one is hematoma when the blood collects under the skin and has to be surgically removed. Damage to the nerves that control your facial muscles is another although this is less common. Slow healing time can also be a problem although this is found mainly in smokers. Oh! and don't forget the usual risks that are involved with anesthesia.
On the plus side, the effects of a face lift are quite dramatic. It is without a doubt the fastest and most permanent way of shedding your 'old' face and regaining some of that youthful beauty you were born with..
If you've considered these things and decided that the final outcome is worth it, then proceed, but first please ask yourself these questions.
Why do I want a facelift?
Am I doing this because its going to help me find the job that I really want? This is a valid reason for going ahead. It shouldn't matter to those that hire people how old the applicant is or what they look like, but in the real world we know that these things do play a part. If you have a job that has a lot of public exposure, this may also be a good reason to proceed.
Am I doing this because my partner wants me to? Red alert! Never let anyone else talk you into having a facelift. It is a very personal decision and one only you should make. Ask yourself why are you with someone who values you only for your appearance. Honor yourself, you are more than your face! Perhaps you should be working on your relationship and leaving your face alone!
I'm thirty five and have lots of wrinkles around my eyes and cheeks, and my neck is all mottled
A face lift won't help this situation. You are better off exploring the avenue of laser resurfacing or even chemical peels, they will strip the old layer of skin off and reveal a smoother younger appearance. It sounds like you have a lot of sun damage, get educated on the use of sunblock! Its everybody's most important cosmetic.
I'm depressed and don't feel good about myself. Maybe a facelift will help me feel better?
It may for a little while, but it sounds like you have a self esteem problem. Learn to love yourself the way you are first. Then if you still feel a facelift would give your morale a boost, go ahead.
I'm in my early fifties and notice my face is starting to sag quite badly. I can afford the surgery and reckon I might just do this for myself. A good idea, you've thought it through and decided its something you want not something you need.
Find a professional surgeon in your area and follow all his/her advice on how to prepare for your face lift. Don't forget to mention any medication you are taking and if you are a smoker, stop two weeks before surgery is scheduled. It will speed your recovery time. Good luck!
=========================================================================
Wendy Owen has had a lifetime interest in skin care, skin health and general health. She is in her fifties and still has a great skin. Advice on skin care may be found at: http://www.holistic-facial-skin-care.com
Mineral Baths Smart Bathing Versus Hard Bathing
Mineral Baths: Smart Bathing Versus Hard Bathing
"There is a power of choice-
what we do today with our time,
information and habits reflects our tomorrow"
Did you swim in a sea or an ocean ? You could not forget these beautiful sensations of energy and revitalization after sea mineral bathing. Can you restore these feelings at your spa? Purchase mineral salts , dissolve a desired (?) amount in warm water and relax as if you were swimming in a sea?No undiscovered information? You can ask : what is a desired amount- a cup, two cups, 1 kg (2.2 pounds) or more? I would answer : "You should add at least 1 kg (2.2 pounds) per bath ". Let me specify why.
The salinity (salt concentration) of sea water is at least 3%. It means that 3 kg ( 6.6 pounds) of mineral salts should be added to a bath to simulate sea bathing. The primary principle of a bath is to disperse botanicals in the water matrix. Then these botanicals can be available for skin absorption.But regular salt formula hardly provides these benefits because of the skin's low absorption rate for minerals , dissolving mechanism and the body's salinity.
The mechanism of dissolving of ANY regular mineral salts in the water is the following: crystals of salts are dissociated to many ions and these ions are covered by water molecules. These hydrated ions in water have a decreased level of energy and activity for proper absorption and assimilation through the skin.
I have been searching and studying for many years a lot of clinical studies of efficiency of mineral salt treatments. Results differ, efficiency differs, methods differ, salt types differ. But ONE common figure I did find is that for therapeutic treatment purposes scientists use at least 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of ANY regular mineral salts.
The minimum figure of 1(one) kg is originated from the fact that our body salinity (healthy blood plasma) is about 0.9% (salt equivalent of 900 g or 2 pounds per bath).
So, at least 1 kg (2.2 pounds) of REGULAR salts is required to support proper mineral absorption and assimilation through the skin to nourish and re-mineralize the skin and the body with deficient micro- and macro-elements. And water therapy professionals know this figure very well. More often medical spas, clinics and health resorts can use for therapeutic purposes 2 kg (4.4 pounds) , 4 kg (8.8 pounds) or more salts per bath!
For relaxing, balancing and other wellness purposes a less amount of mineral salts can be used. But you should understand that the main effect of 250-500 grams (one -two cups of ANY regular salts) per bath is more a skin's stimulating effect than a real nourishing effect.
That is why the only recommendation for REGULAR mineral salt bathing can be :"The more salts the better".
The more salts are added the better?. Nothing can be changed?.Hmm.
The more salts are added the better? Hard bathing?
No new ideas?
This old dogma can be doubted and new approaches, scientific ideas and technology are discovered to create a NEW generation of bath products for Smart Bathing!
Oleg Moskvine, held the Senior Scientist position of the R&D department of Technofit cosmetic manufacturing company.
Oleg has the good expertise in hydrotherapy (balneology, water therapy) treatments with water, mineral salts and mud applications.
Web-site: http://www.tonusworld.com
"There is a power of choice-
what we do today with our time,
information and habits reflects our tomorrow"
Did you swim in a sea or an ocean ? You could not forget these beautiful sensations of energy and revitalization after sea mineral bathing. Can you restore these feelings at your spa? Purchase mineral salts , dissolve a desired (?) amount in warm water and relax as if you were swimming in a sea?No undiscovered information? You can ask : what is a desired amount- a cup, two cups, 1 kg (2.2 pounds) or more? I would answer : "You should add at least 1 kg (2.2 pounds) per bath ". Let me specify why.
The salinity (salt concentration) of sea water is at least 3%. It means that 3 kg ( 6.6 pounds) of mineral salts should be added to a bath to simulate sea bathing. The primary principle of a bath is to disperse botanicals in the water matrix. Then these botanicals can be available for skin absorption.But regular salt formula hardly provides these benefits because of the skin's low absorption rate for minerals , dissolving mechanism and the body's salinity.
The mechanism of dissolving of ANY regular mineral salts in the water is the following: crystals of salts are dissociated to many ions and these ions are covered by water molecules. These hydrated ions in water have a decreased level of energy and activity for proper absorption and assimilation through the skin.
I have been searching and studying for many years a lot of clinical studies of efficiency of mineral salt treatments. Results differ, efficiency differs, methods differ, salt types differ. But ONE common figure I did find is that for therapeutic treatment purposes scientists use at least 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of ANY regular mineral salts.
The minimum figure of 1(one) kg is originated from the fact that our body salinity (healthy blood plasma) is about 0.9% (salt equivalent of 900 g or 2 pounds per bath).
So, at least 1 kg (2.2 pounds) of REGULAR salts is required to support proper mineral absorption and assimilation through the skin to nourish and re-mineralize the skin and the body with deficient micro- and macro-elements. And water therapy professionals know this figure very well. More often medical spas, clinics and health resorts can use for therapeutic purposes 2 kg (4.4 pounds) , 4 kg (8.8 pounds) or more salts per bath!
For relaxing, balancing and other wellness purposes a less amount of mineral salts can be used. But you should understand that the main effect of 250-500 grams (one -two cups of ANY regular salts) per bath is more a skin's stimulating effect than a real nourishing effect.
That is why the only recommendation for REGULAR mineral salt bathing can be :"The more salts the better".
The more salts are added the better?. Nothing can be changed?.Hmm.
The more salts are added the better? Hard bathing?
No new ideas?
This old dogma can be doubted and new approaches, scientific ideas and technology are discovered to create a NEW generation of bath products for Smart Bathing!
Oleg Moskvine, held the Senior Scientist position of the R&D department of Technofit cosmetic manufacturing company.
Oleg has the good expertise in hydrotherapy (balneology, water therapy) treatments with water, mineral salts and mud applications.
Web-site: http://www.tonusworld.com
Hot Colors for Cooler Days
Hot Colors for Cooler Days
Labor Day not only marks the end of the summer season, but also summer fashion as well. I'm sure you've heard the old fashion adage, "don't wear white shoes after Labor Day!". Does this same restriction apply to pink lip-gloss? What about lime green eye shadow? Always wanting to be cosmetic-ly correct, I enlisted the help of hair stylist & make up artist extraordinaire Shea-Shea Johnson co-owner of Thaanx 2 U Hair Salon. Shea-Shea's impressive celeb list of clients include Alicia Keys, A.J Johnson, Gary Dourdan, Kellita Smith, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee & Tisha Campbell. Anyone talented enough to powder fine @(#* Gary Dourdan's nose is definitely qualified to share beauty secrets with a wanna be like me. Read on as Shea-Shea offers us some "MAC-nificent suggestions to transition beautifully into Fall.
Changing Faces
Q. With cooler days ahead, I asked Shea-Shea if wearing hot, bright colors on our eyes and lips is breaking "the rules"?
A. "Simplicity is key. I don't follow "the rules" but I do believe in keeping it simple. If you want to wear a bright eye shadow it's important to apply it in moderation, and make sure it is blended well. The object is to not let the eye shadow over power your face.
Fall into Beauty
Q. Can you recommend any essentials as we transition into Fall?
A. "Hydrating the skin is essential! Drinking water is the first step to having healthy, dewy skin. Also, it is important to continue to use a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Sunscreen not only protects our faces from sun damage but also acts as a barrier against cold winter weather. So skincare first, then makeup. For fall I prefer natural, earth tones like Samoa Silk eye shadow. Tan-Ray eye paint, Peaches blush, & Oh Baby lip glass, all by MAC Cosmetics.
Beauty Express
Q. With the end of summer also comes the beginning of school. For many moms with school age children, that can also mean less time in the bathroom. Any advice for looking polished in say 10 minutes?
A. Definitely. Starting with a clean face and groomed eyebrows.
1. Lightly dust face with a MAC SPF 15 Foundation.
(Remember the key is moderation. You don't want to over powder)
2. Apply 2 coats of mascara.
3. Apply blush or bronzer. (Peaches by MAC works on just about every skintype)
4. Apply lipgloss. (Oh Baby by MAC works on just about every skintype)
What's in Your Makeup Bag?
Q. Your going to be stranded on a desert island. What do you definitely pack into your makeup bag?
A. Definicils Mascara by Lancome, Pink Freeze eyeshadow by MAC, C-Thru Lip Glass by MAC, MAC shadow brushes #'s 224, 252 & 266 and Fashion Fair Skin Treatment Program (Cleanse, Rinse, Moisturize) because it is so important to wash off your make up before bed!
Face Painting
Q. Thank you Shea-Shea. I've enjoyed talking "shop" with you and I've definitely added a few items to my beauty-shopping list. But I also need help with makeup application. Do you teach makeup application?
A. I do. I give makeup consultation as well as workshops on makeup application. I also do makeovers from head to toe, and I do make up for bridal partys, special events, etc. I can be reached at (510) 262-9220 or (510) 812-8602 for an appointment.
There you have it ladies?pro tips on Fall Beauty. Of course, inner beauty is the best beauty because it doesn't wash off! But if you need a little help painting your face don't hesitate to give my girl a call?who knows you just might see Gary!
Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon in Northern California.
Labor Day not only marks the end of the summer season, but also summer fashion as well. I'm sure you've heard the old fashion adage, "don't wear white shoes after Labor Day!". Does this same restriction apply to pink lip-gloss? What about lime green eye shadow? Always wanting to be cosmetic-ly correct, I enlisted the help of hair stylist & make up artist extraordinaire Shea-Shea Johnson co-owner of Thaanx 2 U Hair Salon. Shea-Shea's impressive celeb list of clients include Alicia Keys, A.J Johnson, Gary Dourdan, Kellita Smith, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee & Tisha Campbell. Anyone talented enough to powder fine @(#* Gary Dourdan's nose is definitely qualified to share beauty secrets with a wanna be like me. Read on as Shea-Shea offers us some "MAC-nificent suggestions to transition beautifully into Fall.
Changing Faces
Q. With cooler days ahead, I asked Shea-Shea if wearing hot, bright colors on our eyes and lips is breaking "the rules"?
A. "Simplicity is key. I don't follow "the rules" but I do believe in keeping it simple. If you want to wear a bright eye shadow it's important to apply it in moderation, and make sure it is blended well. The object is to not let the eye shadow over power your face.
Fall into Beauty
Q. Can you recommend any essentials as we transition into Fall?
A. "Hydrating the skin is essential! Drinking water is the first step to having healthy, dewy skin. Also, it is important to continue to use a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Sunscreen not only protects our faces from sun damage but also acts as a barrier against cold winter weather. So skincare first, then makeup. For fall I prefer natural, earth tones like Samoa Silk eye shadow. Tan-Ray eye paint, Peaches blush, & Oh Baby lip glass, all by MAC Cosmetics.
Beauty Express
Q. With the end of summer also comes the beginning of school. For many moms with school age children, that can also mean less time in the bathroom. Any advice for looking polished in say 10 minutes?
A. Definitely. Starting with a clean face and groomed eyebrows.
1. Lightly dust face with a MAC SPF 15 Foundation.
(Remember the key is moderation. You don't want to over powder)
2. Apply 2 coats of mascara.
3. Apply blush or bronzer. (Peaches by MAC works on just about every skintype)
4. Apply lipgloss. (Oh Baby by MAC works on just about every skintype)
What's in Your Makeup Bag?
Q. Your going to be stranded on a desert island. What do you definitely pack into your makeup bag?
A. Definicils Mascara by Lancome, Pink Freeze eyeshadow by MAC, C-Thru Lip Glass by MAC, MAC shadow brushes #'s 224, 252 & 266 and Fashion Fair Skin Treatment Program (Cleanse, Rinse, Moisturize) because it is so important to wash off your make up before bed!
Face Painting
Q. Thank you Shea-Shea. I've enjoyed talking "shop" with you and I've definitely added a few items to my beauty-shopping list. But I also need help with makeup application. Do you teach makeup application?
A. I do. I give makeup consultation as well as workshops on makeup application. I also do makeovers from head to toe, and I do make up for bridal partys, special events, etc. I can be reached at (510) 262-9220 or (510) 812-8602 for an appointment.
There you have it ladies?pro tips on Fall Beauty. Of course, inner beauty is the best beauty because it doesn't wash off! But if you need a little help painting your face don't hesitate to give my girl a call?who knows you just might see Gary!
Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon in Northern California.
Do You Read Labels
Do You Read Labels?
The first ingredient of any product is what makes up the majority of that product. For example if the first ingredient of your cleanser is water, than the majority of your cleanser is nothing but water. That is why it is important to know what is in your products. Are you interested in knowing what you are applying to your skin? Just as there are healthy and unhealthy foods the same applies to skincare products.
Here is a list of skincare ingredients to avoid.
? Mineral Oil- A liquid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum, mineral oil can attract dirt and causes blackheads and eruptions. It can accelerate free radical damage, thus speeding up the aging process, because it causes toxins to build up in the skin.
? All waxes such as PARAFFIN, BEEWAX, CANDELLIA WAX, CARNUBA WAX- Waxes are widely used in cleansing creams, eye creams and moisturizers. Waxes clog pores creating blackheads and whiteheads. They also smother the skin, which over a period of time, creates an enlarged pore problem.
? Lanolin- A yellow, semi-solid, fatty secretion from sheep's wool is widely used in skin and beauty care products. It can cause an allergic reaction in some people, as well as enlarged pores.
? PETROLATUM- This familiar semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons is derived from petroleum. Literally, "paraffin jelly" or "petroleum jelly" - it is not absorbed by the skin and suffocates pores. All petrochemicals pollute our water and destroy marine life-avoiding them is essential for humans, animals, fish, water, land and air.
? ACETONE- Used in nail polish and nail polish removers, this colorless, volatile liquid is often used in astringents, fresheners or clarifying lotions. It is extremely toxic and will dehydrate the skin while speeding up the aging process.
? BORAX (Sodium Borate Boric Acid)- Used in baby powders, eye creams, skin fresheners, and protective creams as a preservative- it is rapidly absorbed by the skin. And it is still widely used, despites repeated warnings from the American Medical Association.
? ALCOHOLS SUCH AS ISOPROPYL ALCHOL, SD ALCOHOL 40,
? ETYL ALCHOL- Alcohols dissolves the body's own natural moisturizers and strips the skin of its own protection, leaving it vulnerable to infection. Alcohols destroy the skin ph balance and since they absorb water they speed up wrinkling of the skin.
? FD&C- When this abbreviation precedes the name of a color, it means that the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has certified it as safe for use in drugs and cosmetics, but not in food. D&C colors are usually synthetic, coal tar colors; they're toxic and should be avoided when at all possible.
I challenge you to read labels, to find out what is safe and effective and would benefit you and your skin the most. There are many safe products on the market today and they are not expensive and easy to use and will have your skin looking healthy and radiant.
Marylee Evans
Independent L'Bri Consultant
Commited to solving your skincare and beauty issues http://www.naturalskincaresolution.com
Make your living in the world of beauty! http://www.beautybusinessopportunity.com
The first ingredient of any product is what makes up the majority of that product. For example if the first ingredient of your cleanser is water, than the majority of your cleanser is nothing but water. That is why it is important to know what is in your products. Are you interested in knowing what you are applying to your skin? Just as there are healthy and unhealthy foods the same applies to skincare products.
Here is a list of skincare ingredients to avoid.
? Mineral Oil- A liquid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum, mineral oil can attract dirt and causes blackheads and eruptions. It can accelerate free radical damage, thus speeding up the aging process, because it causes toxins to build up in the skin.
? All waxes such as PARAFFIN, BEEWAX, CANDELLIA WAX, CARNUBA WAX- Waxes are widely used in cleansing creams, eye creams and moisturizers. Waxes clog pores creating blackheads and whiteheads. They also smother the skin, which over a period of time, creates an enlarged pore problem.
? Lanolin- A yellow, semi-solid, fatty secretion from sheep's wool is widely used in skin and beauty care products. It can cause an allergic reaction in some people, as well as enlarged pores.
? PETROLATUM- This familiar semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons is derived from petroleum. Literally, "paraffin jelly" or "petroleum jelly" - it is not absorbed by the skin and suffocates pores. All petrochemicals pollute our water and destroy marine life-avoiding them is essential for humans, animals, fish, water, land and air.
? ACETONE- Used in nail polish and nail polish removers, this colorless, volatile liquid is often used in astringents, fresheners or clarifying lotions. It is extremely toxic and will dehydrate the skin while speeding up the aging process.
? BORAX (Sodium Borate Boric Acid)- Used in baby powders, eye creams, skin fresheners, and protective creams as a preservative- it is rapidly absorbed by the skin. And it is still widely used, despites repeated warnings from the American Medical Association.
? ALCOHOLS SUCH AS ISOPROPYL ALCHOL, SD ALCOHOL 40,
? ETYL ALCHOL- Alcohols dissolves the body's own natural moisturizers and strips the skin of its own protection, leaving it vulnerable to infection. Alcohols destroy the skin ph balance and since they absorb water they speed up wrinkling of the skin.
? FD&C- When this abbreviation precedes the name of a color, it means that the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has certified it as safe for use in drugs and cosmetics, but not in food. D&C colors are usually synthetic, coal tar colors; they're toxic and should be avoided when at all possible.
I challenge you to read labels, to find out what is safe and effective and would benefit you and your skin the most. There are many safe products on the market today and they are not expensive and easy to use and will have your skin looking healthy and radiant.
Marylee Evans
Independent L'Bri Consultant
Commited to solving your skincare and beauty issues http://www.naturalskincaresolution.com
Make your living in the world of beauty! http://www.beautybusinessopportunity.com
Cosmetics Toiletries Global Outsourcing Private Label Manufacturing
Cosmetics & Toiletries - Global Outsourcing & Private Label Manufacturing
Hi, My name is Rasik Botadra, am currently working as an Analyst with business news magazine & new papers.
I am writing this article in view of India emerging as Highly potential Global Outsourcing & Solutions Provider for finished Consumer products & General Merchandise. India has always kept her stand in Global competition right from the beginning for Finished Products such as Cosmetic & Toiletries but limited to certain market segments.
After recent globalization and change in policies the opportunities for manufacturers & exporters have widen. Today we can say that the producers are coming-off their age from traditional methods. The developments are becoming trend setting. The Manufacturers are versatile to cope up with the vibrant consumer behavior.
The globalization in terms of foreign trends & acceptability has penetrated finely into the Indian buying market and so is the Local manufacturer's struggle to captivate the opportunities by matching the same trends & international qualities.
The practice of quality control & organizational management has improved drastically by emergence of New generation working as a Team work. All this things has together gained importance for a Foreign Buyer seeking his eyes to create a valuable outsourcing partner in India.
What's so appealing about Outsourcing a Cosmetic Product for a European Buyer from India? We discuss here some important aspects for this
1. The Research base in India have revolutionalized with exceptional Education. Indian cosmetic companies employs experienced cosmetologist & PHDs for research & product development.
2. Indian Engineering Industry have created State of the Art Process machineries for renowned Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetic Industries worldwide. Its inevitable that the Process engineering today is expertly competed by India.
3. The Skilled & Unskilled Labour even today is a Prime resource for Lower value addition in India.
4. Quality Control, Lab trials & ISO accreditation Practices is a Prime criteria which companies adopt for their creditability.
5. All kinds of Packaging materials & Raw Materials are easily outsourced from Local access. For a particular Input a Producer have an option of more than 5 vendors in the Indian local competitive thriven market..
6. New Policies & Sectors such as Special Economic Zones cut outs completely Tax burdens & overheads.
7. Indian Policies for Export is Not subsidized. Country like China wherein the Producers enjoy unreasonable government subsidies are not reliable for long term partnership. As we are not sure when can a product from China crash from global competition.
8. Information Technology as India being pioneer, have made communications made more & more faster & convenient. Designing & Branding Solutions can be provided at highly professional level, at economic costs.
9. Stringent Laws for protection of Brands & Copyrights. The Business for India is beyond private label supplies for Chain stores & Dollar Shops. We see India in near future as partnering for Giant brands of Europe & American Segments.
Amongst the Cosmetics & Toiletries, with a professional outsource job owners produces a wide range of Creams, Lotions, Talcum Powders, Tooth Pastes, Body Oil, Baby Products, Toilet Soaps, Compacts, Shampoos, Conditioners, etc. with constant knowledge & update of New-age Active Ingredients & Packaging.
I visited one of the leading Exporters of Cosmetic Products for foreign brands. The company has complete facility for production of a wide range of cosmetic products. You may have a look at their website http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com/consumer_goods_home.html
Rasik Botadra is an Analyst with several business news magazines & newspapers. He can be contacted at rasikbotadra@yahoo.co.in
Hi, My name is Rasik Botadra, am currently working as an Analyst with business news magazine & new papers.
I am writing this article in view of India emerging as Highly potential Global Outsourcing & Solutions Provider for finished Consumer products & General Merchandise. India has always kept her stand in Global competition right from the beginning for Finished Products such as Cosmetic & Toiletries but limited to certain market segments.
After recent globalization and change in policies the opportunities for manufacturers & exporters have widen. Today we can say that the producers are coming-off their age from traditional methods. The developments are becoming trend setting. The Manufacturers are versatile to cope up with the vibrant consumer behavior.
The globalization in terms of foreign trends & acceptability has penetrated finely into the Indian buying market and so is the Local manufacturer's struggle to captivate the opportunities by matching the same trends & international qualities.
The practice of quality control & organizational management has improved drastically by emergence of New generation working as a Team work. All this things has together gained importance for a Foreign Buyer seeking his eyes to create a valuable outsourcing partner in India.
What's so appealing about Outsourcing a Cosmetic Product for a European Buyer from India? We discuss here some important aspects for this
1. The Research base in India have revolutionalized with exceptional Education. Indian cosmetic companies employs experienced cosmetologist & PHDs for research & product development.
2. Indian Engineering Industry have created State of the Art Process machineries for renowned Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetic Industries worldwide. Its inevitable that the Process engineering today is expertly competed by India.
3. The Skilled & Unskilled Labour even today is a Prime resource for Lower value addition in India.
4. Quality Control, Lab trials & ISO accreditation Practices is a Prime criteria which companies adopt for their creditability.
5. All kinds of Packaging materials & Raw Materials are easily outsourced from Local access. For a particular Input a Producer have an option of more than 5 vendors in the Indian local competitive thriven market..
6. New Policies & Sectors such as Special Economic Zones cut outs completely Tax burdens & overheads.
7. Indian Policies for Export is Not subsidized. Country like China wherein the Producers enjoy unreasonable government subsidies are not reliable for long term partnership. As we are not sure when can a product from China crash from global competition.
8. Information Technology as India being pioneer, have made communications made more & more faster & convenient. Designing & Branding Solutions can be provided at highly professional level, at economic costs.
9. Stringent Laws for protection of Brands & Copyrights. The Business for India is beyond private label supplies for Chain stores & Dollar Shops. We see India in near future as partnering for Giant brands of Europe & American Segments.
Amongst the Cosmetics & Toiletries, with a professional outsource job owners produces a wide range of Creams, Lotions, Talcum Powders, Tooth Pastes, Body Oil, Baby Products, Toilet Soaps, Compacts, Shampoos, Conditioners, etc. with constant knowledge & update of New-age Active Ingredients & Packaging.
I visited one of the leading Exporters of Cosmetic Products for foreign brands. The company has complete facility for production of a wide range of cosmetic products. You may have a look at their website http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com/consumer_goods_home.html
Rasik Botadra is an Analyst with several business news magazines & newspapers. He can be contacted at rasikbotadra@yahoo.co.in
Beauty Tip: Foundation Secrets For A Flawless Complexion
Beauty Tip: Foundation Secrets For A Flawless Complexion
1. For a natural look your foundation must match your skin tone. Test foundations along your jawline. You will know the best color because it will disappear into your skin.
2. Spread foundation on your hands and pat it on your face, then smooth out with a sponge making sure not to pull or stretch the skin. Be extra careful in the area around your eyes where the skin is super thin. Don't forget to apply foundation on your eyelids and lips.
3. To make foundation last apply moisturizer first giving the foundation a base. Dry skin will soak up the foundation if not given that base. For oily skin use an oil-free moisturizer and powder foundation
4. On hot days foundation can be difficult to keep looking fresh. Set your foundation in the morning using a loose powder and puff, then do regular touch ups throughout the day.
5. To cover imperfections apply foundation first and then go back and dot on a concealer that neutralizes red. For noticeable imperfections like very dark circles and birthmarks use a yellow concealer (available from Mary Kay). Don't use too much powder in problem areas because it will draw attention to it.
6. To avoid a foundation line around the jaw apply foundation as usual then use a little moisturizer in your hand and blend it down your neck.
7. For evening mix some shimmer powder with your powder and put it where you want to attract light such as the bridge of the nose, underneath the brow bone, the temples, cheekbone, chin and shoulders.
8. Always use a foundation with a sunscreen of at least 15 to prevent future sun damage.
9. Change your foundation shade if the color of your skin changes.
10. After you apply foundation go near a window to make sure it looks natural. Natural light is the ultimate test.
Copyright 2004 Sheila Dicks
Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.
1. For a natural look your foundation must match your skin tone. Test foundations along your jawline. You will know the best color because it will disappear into your skin.
2. Spread foundation on your hands and pat it on your face, then smooth out with a sponge making sure not to pull or stretch the skin. Be extra careful in the area around your eyes where the skin is super thin. Don't forget to apply foundation on your eyelids and lips.
3. To make foundation last apply moisturizer first giving the foundation a base. Dry skin will soak up the foundation if not given that base. For oily skin use an oil-free moisturizer and powder foundation
4. On hot days foundation can be difficult to keep looking fresh. Set your foundation in the morning using a loose powder and puff, then do regular touch ups throughout the day.
5. To cover imperfections apply foundation first and then go back and dot on a concealer that neutralizes red. For noticeable imperfections like very dark circles and birthmarks use a yellow concealer (available from Mary Kay). Don't use too much powder in problem areas because it will draw attention to it.
6. To avoid a foundation line around the jaw apply foundation as usual then use a little moisturizer in your hand and blend it down your neck.
7. For evening mix some shimmer powder with your powder and put it where you want to attract light such as the bridge of the nose, underneath the brow bone, the temples, cheekbone, chin and shoulders.
8. Always use a foundation with a sunscreen of at least 15 to prevent future sun damage.
9. Change your foundation shade if the color of your skin changes.
10. After you apply foundation go near a window to make sure it looks natural. Natural light is the ultimate test.
Copyright 2004 Sheila Dicks
Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.
A Beginners Guide to Colored Contact Lenses
A Beginners Guide to Colored Contact Lenses
Today, colored contact lenses has slowly become a fashion that aims to change your appearance. As the old saying goes, 'Eyes are the window to the soul'. With just a pair of colored contact lenses, you have the ability to transform your appearance with a pair of captivating eyes. Therefore, do not under-estimate the impact of a pair of colored contact lenses can really make. Today, colored contact lenses are not only used for cosmetic reason only but it can be used for people who has astigmatism and presbyopia problem.
Color contact lenses work by filtering all the color in the light except the desired color. There are few different categories of colored contact lenses:
Opaque lenses
Opaque lenses can dramatically change the natural color of your eyes regardless of how dark is your eyes color. It has a solid colored 'ring' that covers the iris while leaving a clear hole in the center to let the light passes through. Majority of colored contact lenses are opaque.
Enhancement tint
Enhancement tints lenses are translucent and are used to enhance your natural eye color (therefore, it also known as enhancer tints). If your natural eye color is dark color, enhancement tints lenses will be hard to make the color change visible. Therefore, enhancement tints lenses are recommended for light colored eyes only.
Visibility tints
Visibility tints do not change the eye color at all. It is slighted tinted for handling purpose so that you can remove and insert the lenses better. Also, it helps to find your contact lenses more easily if they are dropped or misplaced.
Light Filtering tints
Light filtering tints is the latest development in colored contact lenses. It is designed mainly to be used in sport such as tennis, golf or baseball. Light filtering tints can enhance certain colors while muting other colors. As a result, it is easier to target the balls that stands out against the background. For example, tennis players wearing light yellow or gold tint colored contact lenses would track the ball more easily by brightening the background. Recently, Nike's MaxSight Sport-Tinted contact lenses is the latest sport contact lenses that aims at athletes who are reluctant to use sunglasses due to fogging, scratching or inconvenience. This tinted contact lenses will give a devilish red-eyed appearance that function much like sunglasses by cutting down on glare.
Colored contact lenses are available as extended wear, disposable and daily disposable. Majority of colored contact lenses come in the form of soft lenses which are usually comfortable to wear and easy to adjust even for the first timer. In general, colored contact lenses are fun and safe to wear. However, if you feel uncomfortable and experience some irritation, you should contact your eye care practitioner immediately.
With continuing technology improvement in contact lenses industry, the price of contact lenses has become so affordable that you can simply try out various color contact lenses. You will probably look great on the popular bright blue eyes that everyone loves. Or you can try the green or lavender color contact lenses that create the exotic look. There are so many colored contact lenses to choose from that you probably have to try them all on to find the color that match your skin and hair tones.
Color contact lens is a fast growing market. Many large contact lenses manufacturers are producing a variety of new design and colors contact lenses every few months. In other words, you have more options to choose now. At present, Wesley-Jessen (acquired by CIBA Vision in 2000) is the market leader in colored contact lenses. They have produced a popular range of Freshlook colorblends contact lenses. In addition, you can also find wide selection of other popular colored contact lenses such as Acuvue 2 Colors, Focus Softcolors, Durasoft 2 Colorblends, CibaSoft SoftColors and many more.
Internet is an excellent place where you can buy colored contact lenses online. Unlike local eye-care shops, you are not geographically restricted to buy contact lenses online. Moreover, it is convenient and easy to make price and product comparison on the web that help you to save times and money. If you are looking to buy cheap colored contact lenses, online market is the right place for you. On the Internet, you can find many online stores with large collection of cheap colored contact lenses. But before you make your purchase, you should only order from reputable online contact lenses stores that offer money back guarantee or full refund should you not satisfy with your purchase.
Andrew Loh is the owner of Colored Contact Lenses Guide, a website that provides informational guide to colored contact lenses - how to choose the right colored contact lenses, where to buy discount colored contact lenses online, how to get free color contact lenses and more. Visit his website at:http://www.find-colored-contact-lenses.com
Today, colored contact lenses has slowly become a fashion that aims to change your appearance. As the old saying goes, 'Eyes are the window to the soul'. With just a pair of colored contact lenses, you have the ability to transform your appearance with a pair of captivating eyes. Therefore, do not under-estimate the impact of a pair of colored contact lenses can really make. Today, colored contact lenses are not only used for cosmetic reason only but it can be used for people who has astigmatism and presbyopia problem.
Color contact lenses work by filtering all the color in the light except the desired color. There are few different categories of colored contact lenses:
Opaque lenses
Opaque lenses can dramatically change the natural color of your eyes regardless of how dark is your eyes color. It has a solid colored 'ring' that covers the iris while leaving a clear hole in the center to let the light passes through. Majority of colored contact lenses are opaque.
Enhancement tint
Enhancement tints lenses are translucent and are used to enhance your natural eye color (therefore, it also known as enhancer tints). If your natural eye color is dark color, enhancement tints lenses will be hard to make the color change visible. Therefore, enhancement tints lenses are recommended for light colored eyes only.
Visibility tints
Visibility tints do not change the eye color at all. It is slighted tinted for handling purpose so that you can remove and insert the lenses better. Also, it helps to find your contact lenses more easily if they are dropped or misplaced.
Light Filtering tints
Light filtering tints is the latest development in colored contact lenses. It is designed mainly to be used in sport such as tennis, golf or baseball. Light filtering tints can enhance certain colors while muting other colors. As a result, it is easier to target the balls that stands out against the background. For example, tennis players wearing light yellow or gold tint colored contact lenses would track the ball more easily by brightening the background. Recently, Nike's MaxSight Sport-Tinted contact lenses is the latest sport contact lenses that aims at athletes who are reluctant to use sunglasses due to fogging, scratching or inconvenience. This tinted contact lenses will give a devilish red-eyed appearance that function much like sunglasses by cutting down on glare.
Colored contact lenses are available as extended wear, disposable and daily disposable. Majority of colored contact lenses come in the form of soft lenses which are usually comfortable to wear and easy to adjust even for the first timer. In general, colored contact lenses are fun and safe to wear. However, if you feel uncomfortable and experience some irritation, you should contact your eye care practitioner immediately.
With continuing technology improvement in contact lenses industry, the price of contact lenses has become so affordable that you can simply try out various color contact lenses. You will probably look great on the popular bright blue eyes that everyone loves. Or you can try the green or lavender color contact lenses that create the exotic look. There are so many colored contact lenses to choose from that you probably have to try them all on to find the color that match your skin and hair tones.
Color contact lens is a fast growing market. Many large contact lenses manufacturers are producing a variety of new design and colors contact lenses every few months. In other words, you have more options to choose now. At present, Wesley-Jessen (acquired by CIBA Vision in 2000) is the market leader in colored contact lenses. They have produced a popular range of Freshlook colorblends contact lenses. In addition, you can also find wide selection of other popular colored contact lenses such as Acuvue 2 Colors, Focus Softcolors, Durasoft 2 Colorblends, CibaSoft SoftColors and many more.
Internet is an excellent place where you can buy colored contact lenses online. Unlike local eye-care shops, you are not geographically restricted to buy contact lenses online. Moreover, it is convenient and easy to make price and product comparison on the web that help you to save times and money. If you are looking to buy cheap colored contact lenses, online market is the right place for you. On the Internet, you can find many online stores with large collection of cheap colored contact lenses. But before you make your purchase, you should only order from reputable online contact lenses stores that offer money back guarantee or full refund should you not satisfy with your purchase.
Andrew Loh is the owner of Colored Contact Lenses Guide, a website that provides informational guide to colored contact lenses - how to choose the right colored contact lenses, where to buy discount colored contact lenses online, how to get free color contact lenses and more. Visit his website at:http://www.find-colored-contact-lenses.com
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Beauty Sleep
Beauty Sleep
Beauty Sleep
The health and beauty of a good night's sleep
by Cathy Gatson
Sleeping is a necessity, not a luxury. A good night's sleep is just as crucial to maintaining wellness as is a healthy diet and proper exercise.
The Importance of Sleep
Sleep is a restorative process. While we're sleeping, our brain is cycling through the 3 stages of sleep: light, deep and REM. Sleep restores, rejuvenates and energizes the body and brain. Our immune systems are recharged, cells grow and repair themselves, and our bodies conserve energy.
Dangers of Sleep Deprivation
Unfortunately, to many sleep is not valued. In this "open all night" society we now live in, four out of ten Americans are trading much-needed sleep hours for longer hours at the office, gym, club and other activities which seem more important or interesting. What they may not realize is that lack of sleep takes a toll on our mental and physical well being. Studies performed by the National Sleep Foundation show that even minimal sleep loss has a profoundly detrimental impact on mood, cognition, performance, productivity, communication skills, accident rates and general health. For optimal functioning throughout the day, the average adult needs between seven to nine hours sleep a night. According to the NSF, the American adult population functions on about six and a half hours of sleep per night.
Don't Sleep?
For some, lack of sleep is not a choice, but a condition. Millions of Americans suffer from insomnia. According to the NSF, a third of Americans are using over the counter or prescription sleep aids at night. If you suffer from insomnia, here are a few tips to help you get some shut eye:
ท Pray before bedtime. The bible tells us to "Cast your burden upon the Lord. Don't go to bed with a heavy load. Give it to God. Remember Joy comes in the morning"
ท Avoid caffeinated food and beverages like coffee, teas, soft drinks and chocolate 3 to 4 hours before bedtime.
ท Exercise regularly, but complete your workout at least three hours before bedtime. Keep your body calm.
ท Make sure your mattress is the right one for you. Flip your mattress over periodically.
ท Develop a bedtime ritual. Taking a warm bath 90 minutes before bedtime will relax your body and usually make you feel sleepy.
ท Make sure your bedroom is quiet and comfortable.
ท Have a cup of warm milk.
ท Play relaxing music.
ท Go to bed and wake up the same time every day. When your sleep cycle has a regular rhythm you will feel better.
Be a Sleeping Beauty
A friend of mine once told me that a woman should present herself to her husband at bedtime like a present. Interesting?so I polled a few colleagues and found overall most husbands prefer their wives to be lingerie clad at bedtime. Nude came in a very close second and pajamas were considered very un-sexy. Wives preferred their hubbys wear only boxers to bed. Whatever your sleepwear preference, bedtime is the opportunity to prepare your mind and body for the rest it deserves. Here are a few more tips to help you sleep pretty:
ท Always remove your makeup and cleanse your face thoroughly before bed (Oil of Olay Foaming Face Wash for Sensitive Skin). Going to bed without washing your face not only leads to mascara-stained sheets (Andrea Eye Q's eye makeup remover pads $3.50+ voted best by Allure Magazines 1999) but the dirt picked up during the day can clog pores and lead to acne.
ท Brush and floss your teeth.
ท Vaseline works wonders on rough spots while you sleep. Try it on feet, elbows, and knees and dab a little on your lips too.
ท There are several night creams on the market now claiming to be more effective if applied at bedtime, here are a few to try: Lancome - Primoridale Intense Night Cream $41.50, Murad Perfecting Night Cream $41.50. If these prices are more than you normally spend then L'Oreal Age Perfect Night Cream and Oil of Olay ProVital night creams are available at Wal-Mart and Target. Prices range from $14 - $15.
ท If you wrap your hair in a scarf at bedtime, remember to wash it regularly.
ท Wear your fancy nighties to bed. Don't save them for a special occasion. You are a special occasion.
ท After your bath or shower ritual slather on a lotion that relaxes you and helps you fall asleep like Origins Night-a-mins moisture lotion or Calm to Your Senses Body Souflee.
ท Marilyn Monroe is said to only have worn Chanel No.5 to bed but if you prefer something a little lighter then Issey Miyake's L'Eau D'Issey Soothing Night Fragrance is a good pick.
Here's wishing you brighter days and more restful nights!
Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon located in Northern California.
Beauty Sleep
The health and beauty of a good night's sleep
by Cathy Gatson
Sleeping is a necessity, not a luxury. A good night's sleep is just as crucial to maintaining wellness as is a healthy diet and proper exercise.
The Importance of Sleep
Sleep is a restorative process. While we're sleeping, our brain is cycling through the 3 stages of sleep: light, deep and REM. Sleep restores, rejuvenates and energizes the body and brain. Our immune systems are recharged, cells grow and repair themselves, and our bodies conserve energy.
Dangers of Sleep Deprivation
Unfortunately, to many sleep is not valued. In this "open all night" society we now live in, four out of ten Americans are trading much-needed sleep hours for longer hours at the office, gym, club and other activities which seem more important or interesting. What they may not realize is that lack of sleep takes a toll on our mental and physical well being. Studies performed by the National Sleep Foundation show that even minimal sleep loss has a profoundly detrimental impact on mood, cognition, performance, productivity, communication skills, accident rates and general health. For optimal functioning throughout the day, the average adult needs between seven to nine hours sleep a night. According to the NSF, the American adult population functions on about six and a half hours of sleep per night.
Don't Sleep?
For some, lack of sleep is not a choice, but a condition. Millions of Americans suffer from insomnia. According to the NSF, a third of Americans are using over the counter or prescription sleep aids at night. If you suffer from insomnia, here are a few tips to help you get some shut eye:
ท Pray before bedtime. The bible tells us to "Cast your burden upon the Lord. Don't go to bed with a heavy load. Give it to God. Remember Joy comes in the morning"
ท Avoid caffeinated food and beverages like coffee, teas, soft drinks and chocolate 3 to 4 hours before bedtime.
ท Exercise regularly, but complete your workout at least three hours before bedtime. Keep your body calm.
ท Make sure your mattress is the right one for you. Flip your mattress over periodically.
ท Develop a bedtime ritual. Taking a warm bath 90 minutes before bedtime will relax your body and usually make you feel sleepy.
ท Make sure your bedroom is quiet and comfortable.
ท Have a cup of warm milk.
ท Play relaxing music.
ท Go to bed and wake up the same time every day. When your sleep cycle has a regular rhythm you will feel better.
Be a Sleeping Beauty
A friend of mine once told me that a woman should present herself to her husband at bedtime like a present. Interesting?so I polled a few colleagues and found overall most husbands prefer their wives to be lingerie clad at bedtime. Nude came in a very close second and pajamas were considered very un-sexy. Wives preferred their hubbys wear only boxers to bed. Whatever your sleepwear preference, bedtime is the opportunity to prepare your mind and body for the rest it deserves. Here are a few more tips to help you sleep pretty:
ท Always remove your makeup and cleanse your face thoroughly before bed (Oil of Olay Foaming Face Wash for Sensitive Skin). Going to bed without washing your face not only leads to mascara-stained sheets (Andrea Eye Q's eye makeup remover pads $3.50+ voted best by Allure Magazines 1999) but the dirt picked up during the day can clog pores and lead to acne.
ท Brush and floss your teeth.
ท Vaseline works wonders on rough spots while you sleep. Try it on feet, elbows, and knees and dab a little on your lips too.
ท There are several night creams on the market now claiming to be more effective if applied at bedtime, here are a few to try: Lancome - Primoridale Intense Night Cream $41.50, Murad Perfecting Night Cream $41.50. If these prices are more than you normally spend then L'Oreal Age Perfect Night Cream and Oil of Olay ProVital night creams are available at Wal-Mart and Target. Prices range from $14 - $15.
ท If you wrap your hair in a scarf at bedtime, remember to wash it regularly.
ท Wear your fancy nighties to bed. Don't save them for a special occasion. You are a special occasion.
ท After your bath or shower ritual slather on a lotion that relaxes you and helps you fall asleep like Origins Night-a-mins moisture lotion or Calm to Your Senses Body Souflee.
ท Marilyn Monroe is said to only have worn Chanel No.5 to bed but if you prefer something a little lighter then Issey Miyake's L'Eau D'Issey Soothing Night Fragrance is a good pick.
Here's wishing you brighter days and more restful nights!
Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon located in Northern California.
Perfect Lips
Perfect Lips
Nothing impresses your friends more than a perfect lip line, because it is the hardest makeup application to do.To get it, avoid applying the lip pencil too heavily, which will be difficult to blend and soften into the lipstick. Keeping your mouth closed lightly trace the lip line with the lip pencil so it can barely be seen, but can be used as a guide line.
Hold the brush horizontally to trace along the lip line, and do a little bit at a time, backing up and going over it again. Don't try to get the whole line in one stroke. The best lip brush is a sable with a slightly tapered edge, not straight one.
This provides more control and a cleaner line.If you are really pressed for time, apply lipstick only on the bottom lip and press your lips together. Then, blend out to the lip line with the edge of a lip brush, not the tip, for a precise line, or use a dampened cotton swab for a soft, natural lip line.
When finished, instead of blotting the lips by biting a tissue, lay the tissue across both lips while your mouth is closed. This will imprint your lips, including the edges of the mouth where lipstick usually bleeds. Perfect!
Mina Dimakis-Lev
BeautyImagebyMina.com
Nothing impresses your friends more than a perfect lip line, because it is the hardest makeup application to do.To get it, avoid applying the lip pencil too heavily, which will be difficult to blend and soften into the lipstick. Keeping your mouth closed lightly trace the lip line with the lip pencil so it can barely be seen, but can be used as a guide line.
Hold the brush horizontally to trace along the lip line, and do a little bit at a time, backing up and going over it again. Don't try to get the whole line in one stroke. The best lip brush is a sable with a slightly tapered edge, not straight one.
This provides more control and a cleaner line.If you are really pressed for time, apply lipstick only on the bottom lip and press your lips together. Then, blend out to the lip line with the edge of a lip brush, not the tip, for a precise line, or use a dampened cotton swab for a soft, natural lip line.
When finished, instead of blotting the lips by biting a tissue, lay the tissue across both lips while your mouth is closed. This will imprint your lips, including the edges of the mouth where lipstick usually bleeds. Perfect!
Mina Dimakis-Lev
BeautyImagebyMina.com
How To Give A Manicure
How To Give A Manicure
This guide will give you the basic directions for nail care, however, it cannot provide the same direction and hands-on experience offered by a Professional School of Cosmetology.
SUPPLIES: 1 - Nail scissors
2 - Small tray, about the size of a soap dish
3 - Gentle dishwashing detergent or other skin softening, bubbly liquid (such as some bubble bath products)
4 - Warm water
5 - Two to three hand towels
6 - Moisturizer or Hand Lotion with Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter or similar ingredient to condition skin
7 - Clear Base Coat Nail Polish
8 - Colored Nail Polish
9 - Top Coat Nail Polish
10 - Small lamp or other radiant source of light
11 - Table or desk so that, when seated, your arms can easily extend across from the relaxed position of a comfortable chair
12 - Hair dryer or similar device (not required)
13 - Cotton swabs
STEPS: 1 - Fill tray with warm water and sudsy liquid (the trick is to add water at just the right temperature so it will soften skin without being too hot to the touch)
2 - Place one hand in tray and let it soak for several minutes
3 - If you're giving someone else a manicure, you can use oil or moisturizer to massage one hand while the other one is soaking
4 - Remove soaking hand and pat dry with hand towel
5 - Place other hand in tray to soak for several minutes
6 - While the second hand is soaking, you should carefully begin trimming cuticles that form around the edges of the nail itself (NOTE: Pay close attention to what you're doing, so you don't cut too close and end up causing skin to bleed. If you take your time and trim slowly with tiny strokes, you should be fine.)
7 - If your timing is perfect, you will be finished cutting the cuticles on that hand before the first hand gets wrinkled from being in the warm water too long. (Tip: Don't try to hurry the cuticle trimming process to make your timing work. Instead try to remember to check on the soaking hand half-way through the course of cutting cuticles. If the water is cold or the hand shows hints of wrinkling skin, that's your cue to stop the soaking operation and pat hand dry with hand towel, apply some lotion and go back to the trimming procedure.)
8 - When you have completed trimming cuticles on both hands, you should make sure all loose skin is removed from nail area. Begin to polish nails with clear base coat by applying a thin layer as smoothly and carefully as possible. Try to keep polish on nails only. If you accidentally apply too much or get extra polish on skin around nails, use a cotton swab dipped lightly in nail polish remover to correct your mistake.
9 - After applying base coat to both hands, choose polish color and repeat previous procedure beginning with the same hand you started with last time. Follow guidelines described above to produce best results.
10 - The next application will be a top coat to create a seal or protection for colored polish. Repeat previous steps to ensure success in this process. Remember less is better when it comes to nail polish. Thick layers lead to messy results.
11 - You have two choices to complete this process and make your manicure last.
(1) You can dry nails with a blow dryer or similar device set on slow speed at a moderate temperature. You should keep hands positioned under heat source for at least three minutes and then sit still, touch nothing, and wait for another minute or two to avoid smudges or smears that will ruin your efforts.
(2) You can skip the dryer process and sit still, touch nothing and wait for at least five minutes to creating lasting results that will make your manicured nails look their best.
Resource Box - ฉ Danielle Hollister (2004) is the Publisher of BellaOnline Quotations Zine - A free newsletter for quote lovers featuring more than 10,000 quotations in dozens of categories like - love, friendship, children, inspiration, success, wisdom, family, life, and many more. Read it online at - http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art8364.asp
This guide will give you the basic directions for nail care, however, it cannot provide the same direction and hands-on experience offered by a Professional School of Cosmetology.
SUPPLIES: 1 - Nail scissors
2 - Small tray, about the size of a soap dish
3 - Gentle dishwashing detergent or other skin softening, bubbly liquid (such as some bubble bath products)
4 - Warm water
5 - Two to three hand towels
6 - Moisturizer or Hand Lotion with Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter or similar ingredient to condition skin
7 - Clear Base Coat Nail Polish
8 - Colored Nail Polish
9 - Top Coat Nail Polish
10 - Small lamp or other radiant source of light
11 - Table or desk so that, when seated, your arms can easily extend across from the relaxed position of a comfortable chair
12 - Hair dryer or similar device (not required)
13 - Cotton swabs
STEPS: 1 - Fill tray with warm water and sudsy liquid (the trick is to add water at just the right temperature so it will soften skin without being too hot to the touch)
2 - Place one hand in tray and let it soak for several minutes
3 - If you're giving someone else a manicure, you can use oil or moisturizer to massage one hand while the other one is soaking
4 - Remove soaking hand and pat dry with hand towel
5 - Place other hand in tray to soak for several minutes
6 - While the second hand is soaking, you should carefully begin trimming cuticles that form around the edges of the nail itself (NOTE: Pay close attention to what you're doing, so you don't cut too close and end up causing skin to bleed. If you take your time and trim slowly with tiny strokes, you should be fine.)
7 - If your timing is perfect, you will be finished cutting the cuticles on that hand before the first hand gets wrinkled from being in the warm water too long. (Tip: Don't try to hurry the cuticle trimming process to make your timing work. Instead try to remember to check on the soaking hand half-way through the course of cutting cuticles. If the water is cold or the hand shows hints of wrinkling skin, that's your cue to stop the soaking operation and pat hand dry with hand towel, apply some lotion and go back to the trimming procedure.)
8 - When you have completed trimming cuticles on both hands, you should make sure all loose skin is removed from nail area. Begin to polish nails with clear base coat by applying a thin layer as smoothly and carefully as possible. Try to keep polish on nails only. If you accidentally apply too much or get extra polish on skin around nails, use a cotton swab dipped lightly in nail polish remover to correct your mistake.
9 - After applying base coat to both hands, choose polish color and repeat previous procedure beginning with the same hand you started with last time. Follow guidelines described above to produce best results.
10 - The next application will be a top coat to create a seal or protection for colored polish. Repeat previous steps to ensure success in this process. Remember less is better when it comes to nail polish. Thick layers lead to messy results.
11 - You have two choices to complete this process and make your manicure last.
(1) You can dry nails with a blow dryer or similar device set on slow speed at a moderate temperature. You should keep hands positioned under heat source for at least three minutes and then sit still, touch nothing, and wait for another minute or two to avoid smudges or smears that will ruin your efforts.
(2) You can skip the dryer process and sit still, touch nothing and wait for at least five minutes to creating lasting results that will make your manicured nails look their best.
Resource Box - ฉ Danielle Hollister (2004) is the Publisher of BellaOnline Quotations Zine - A free newsletter for quote lovers featuring more than 10,000 quotations in dozens of categories like - love, friendship, children, inspiration, success, wisdom, family, life, and many more. Read it online at - http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art8364.asp
Look Better, Feel Better
Look Better, Feel Better
>Yikes! It's that me, I though after seeing my reflection. What happened? I feel like a different person and I am right. I went from being a single, ambitious young woman to a loving wife, mother and entrepreneur. All this new roles that I have acquire through life, leave me with more responsibilities and less time on my hands.
So, does this mean I have to sacrifice my physical appearance? I don't think so! Who says that moms can't be trendy or simply look more put together.
Just to make things clear, I am not talking about wearing over revealing clothes, expending every single penny on shopping sprees or basing your whole existence on the way you look.
My advice is to just make time for improving your overall appearance. Even if you are a stay at home mom, make sure you get up a couple of minutes before the kids and do your hair, apply some lotion and don't just wear worn out t shirt, sweat pants etc.
What ever your beauty routine is just make time for it. It is a proven fact, looking better will help you feel better and influence those around you.
Kenia Morales is the publisher of online magazine http://kpatra.com "For Every Aspect of Today's Woman. Visit her site to find a variety of women related issues and topics".
Email: eniamorales@kpatra.com
>Yikes! It's that me, I though after seeing my reflection. What happened? I feel like a different person and I am right. I went from being a single, ambitious young woman to a loving wife, mother and entrepreneur. All this new roles that I have acquire through life, leave me with more responsibilities and less time on my hands.
So, does this mean I have to sacrifice my physical appearance? I don't think so! Who says that moms can't be trendy or simply look more put together.
Just to make things clear, I am not talking about wearing over revealing clothes, expending every single penny on shopping sprees or basing your whole existence on the way you look.
My advice is to just make time for improving your overall appearance. Even if you are a stay at home mom, make sure you get up a couple of minutes before the kids and do your hair, apply some lotion and don't just wear worn out t shirt, sweat pants etc.
What ever your beauty routine is just make time for it. It is a proven fact, looking better will help you feel better and influence those around you.
Kenia Morales is the publisher of online magazine http://kpatra.com "For Every Aspect of Today's Woman. Visit her site to find a variety of women related issues and topics".
Email: eniamorales@kpatra.com
How To Apply Your Makeup
How To Apply Your Makeup
How To Apply Your Makeup
STEP 1: FOUNDATION: After Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing your face apply a small amount of foundation to the tip of your index finger, dot on forehead, nose, cheeks and chin then blend in an upward and outward motion without leaving a line. Be sure to apply foundation over your eyelids and blend without leaving a line. Glance in the mirror to ensure there's no line. You can use a concealer to cover imperfections such as blemishes and dark spots. You can use our NATU-CLEAR to remove dark spots, even skin tone and skin discoloration.
STEP 2: TRANSLUCENT POWDER: Using a Powder Brush apply Translucent Powder in a downward motion for a smooth finish. Translucent Powder helps eye makeup and blush to go on smoother and blend better. It also keeps your face looking fresh and your Makeup will last longer.
STEP 3 EYE MAKEUP: Starting at your lash line, apply your Base Color first, then apply your crease color in the crease area. Apply your Highlight Color in the highlight color area, below the brow bone. Finally, blend the colors with a cotton ball or your fingertip to remove any obvious line. If the colors are too bright tone them down with a little Translucent Powder then apply your Mascara, and dust your entire face downward with Translucent Powder.
STEP 4 BLUSH: Your Blush should go on the apples of your cheeks to radiate when you smile. It should go no closer to your nose, but directly beneath the iris of your eye; below nostril-level and into your temple hairline. A good Blush Brush that's tapered for precise placement, is a must.
STEP 5 LIPSTICKS: Define the outline of your lips with a professional lip brush or lip liner pencil that closely matches the color of your lipstick. Then apply your lipstick and blend the liner with a lip brush. Start from the center working outwards.
For more "HOW TO" Makeup and Skin Care Tips and advice visit http://www.beautysensation.com
Julia Anderson, Beauty Consultant and Makeup Artist
Free Newsletter http://www.beautysensation.com
How To Apply Your Makeup
STEP 1: FOUNDATION: After Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing your face apply a small amount of foundation to the tip of your index finger, dot on forehead, nose, cheeks and chin then blend in an upward and outward motion without leaving a line. Be sure to apply foundation over your eyelids and blend without leaving a line. Glance in the mirror to ensure there's no line. You can use a concealer to cover imperfections such as blemishes and dark spots. You can use our NATU-CLEAR to remove dark spots, even skin tone and skin discoloration.
STEP 2: TRANSLUCENT POWDER: Using a Powder Brush apply Translucent Powder in a downward motion for a smooth finish. Translucent Powder helps eye makeup and blush to go on smoother and blend better. It also keeps your face looking fresh and your Makeup will last longer.
STEP 3 EYE MAKEUP: Starting at your lash line, apply your Base Color first, then apply your crease color in the crease area. Apply your Highlight Color in the highlight color area, below the brow bone. Finally, blend the colors with a cotton ball or your fingertip to remove any obvious line. If the colors are too bright tone them down with a little Translucent Powder then apply your Mascara, and dust your entire face downward with Translucent Powder.
STEP 4 BLUSH: Your Blush should go on the apples of your cheeks to radiate when you smile. It should go no closer to your nose, but directly beneath the iris of your eye; below nostril-level and into your temple hairline. A good Blush Brush that's tapered for precise placement, is a must.
STEP 5 LIPSTICKS: Define the outline of your lips with a professional lip brush or lip liner pencil that closely matches the color of your lipstick. Then apply your lipstick and blend the liner with a lip brush. Start from the center working outwards.
For more "HOW TO" Makeup and Skin Care Tips and advice visit http://www.beautysensation.com
Julia Anderson, Beauty Consultant and Makeup Artist
Free Newsletter http://www.beautysensation.com
Plastic Surgey: The New Beauty Norm
Plastic Surgey: The New Beauty Norm?
This is a good topic to discuss especially now since the popularity of all the make-over shows. I have always been curious as to why people, mostly women, have this idea that they are expected to look a certain way in order to "fit in" with society.
We all would like to believe that quaint saying, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder", but how true and meaningful is that phrase when the beholder has been brainwashed, so to speak, into subscribing to the belief that beauty is the artificial look we see on glamour mags, in TV commercials, and even in some children's books? For some time now, that image has consisted mainly of white women and the "white standard of beauty".
I decided to take this question of plastic surgery and the search for beauty and see how it can affect some women in the African-American community. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, African-Americans make up only 6% of plastic surgery patients. Why is this? Do African-American women have a more positive self/body image or is it that many cannot afford it? And for the 6% who do have surgery, to which standard of beauty were they trying to aspire?
I chose to start my search for the white standard of beauty in 1960. I chose that year because at the time, a TV show was airing that sought to teach moral and societal lessons through fantastical tales. Two episodes of this show were very telling and prophetic, and they both dealt with how society viewed beauty and the expectations placed on women to be "beautiful". That show was, The Twilight Zone.
Beauty in 1960... Rod Serling offered us a tale of beauties and beasts in episode #42 entitled: Eye of the Beholder. Here's a brief synopsis of the show I found at The Twilight Zone Guide: Janet Tyler anxiously awaits the outcome of her latest surgery. Janet, who's abnormal face has made her an outcast, has had her eleventh hospital visit - the maximum allowed by the State. If it didn't succeed, she will be sent to live in a village where others of her kind are segregated. As her bandages are removed, she is revealed to be very beautiful. The doctor draws back in horror. As the lights come on we see the others, their faces are misshapen and deformed. As Janet runs from her room crying, she runs into another of her kind, a handsome man named Walter Smith. He is in charge of an outcast village, and he assures her that she will eventually feel she belongs. He tells her to remember the old saying: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Although the show was filmed in black and white, we can clearly see that Ms. Tyler is Caucasian. The doctors appear to have darker skin, nevertheless, the idea here was that the viewers empathized with Ms. Tyler because she was the classic blonde, slender beauty commonly seen in 1960's fashion magazines. As the show closes, the narrator speaks: "Now the questions that come to mind. Where is this place and when is it, what kind of world where ugliness is the norm and beauty the deviation from that norm? The answer is, it doesn't make any difference. Because the old saying happens to be true. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, in this year or a hundred years hence, on this planet or wherever there is human life, perhaps out among the stars. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Lesson to be learned...in the Twilight Zone."
1964: The Standard Continues Episode #137, in Season Five, is called, "Number Twelve Looks Just Like You", and was adapted by a short story called "The Beautiful People". In this episode, we meet Marilyn, a young woman who is about to go through a rite of passage in her community. This rite is called "The Transformation" and it requires citizens to choose among several models of bodies into which they will be transformed. The message here is that this society only sees one standard of beauty and that one will not be happy unless they look and act just like everyone else. Opening Narration: "Given the chance, what young girl wouldn't happily exchange a plain face for a lovely one? What girl could refuse the opportunity to be beautiful? For want of a better estimate, let's call it the year 2000. At any rate, imagine a time in the future when science has developed a means of giving everyone the face and body he dreams of. It may not happen tomorrow--but it happens now, in the Twilight Zone."
Once again, the beautiful people are all white and we don't see any women or men of color. What was this episode trying to tell black women about beauty? The closing narration: Portrait of a young lady in love--with herself. Improbable? Perhaps. But in an age of plastic surgery, body building, and an infinity of cosmetics, let us hesitate to say impossible. These and other strange blessings may be waiting in the future--which after all, is the Twilight Zone."
Beauty 40 Years Later
Some aspects of beauty standards have changed, but not much. We do see more black models and beautiful black women, but when you look at the majority of the more famous ones, (Tyra, Halle, Janet, Vanessa Williams, Beyonce, a few of whom have had plastic surgery, on their noses and other body parts), you can see straight away that they have many Caucasian attributes: small, pinched noses, lighter complexion, lighter eyes, straight, lightly colored hair. It is rare that you will see a model with very dark skin, a tight afro, wide, round, larger nose, and full, large lips. Flip through any issue of Vogue or Glamour and look for that image I just described. Then look for the first image I described.
So, are black women trying to aspire to the white standard of beauty when they seek plastic surgery?
According to Cynthia Winston, assistant professor of psychology at Howard University in Washington, D.C., We really don't know much about how blacks are influenced. Most of the research focuses on perceptions related to skin color. Foe most African-Americans, perception can be shaped by their environment. For example, an African-American woman growing up in an all-white neighborhood in Nebraska may be more likely than an African-American woman raised in inner-city Detroit to compare herself with white images of beauty.
(Source: African-American Women & Plastic Surgery: Self-Improvement or Self-Hatred? By Angela D. Johnson, Sept. 2, 2003)
Now What?
I suppose, it all comes down to how one feels inside about themselves. But there is this viscous cycle of doubt that women constantly face so it's often hard to reconcile your inner voices with the outside images thrown at you everyday. Many women buy into the trends and fashions that dictate beauty. TV shows and print ads abound with images of sexy women. Fitness clubs persuade women to join not so they will lower their risk of heart disease, but so they will aspire to be beautiful on the outside. No one tries to sell things that will help them on the inside.
In the end, you can look at all of this and say that there will always be standards of beauty and those who aspire to live up those standards, and those wanting to make a profit off those standards (cosmetic companies, ad agencies, modeling agencies, fashion designers, plastic surgeons, psychotherapists). The media portrays what people want to see and apparently, it's sex and "beauty".
Ms. Martin currently resides in sunny Southern California with her son. When she's not writing, she works part-time as a preschool teacher where she hopes to help all children develop positive self and body images.
This is a good topic to discuss especially now since the popularity of all the make-over shows. I have always been curious as to why people, mostly women, have this idea that they are expected to look a certain way in order to "fit in" with society.
We all would like to believe that quaint saying, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder", but how true and meaningful is that phrase when the beholder has been brainwashed, so to speak, into subscribing to the belief that beauty is the artificial look we see on glamour mags, in TV commercials, and even in some children's books? For some time now, that image has consisted mainly of white women and the "white standard of beauty".
I decided to take this question of plastic surgery and the search for beauty and see how it can affect some women in the African-American community. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, African-Americans make up only 6% of plastic surgery patients. Why is this? Do African-American women have a more positive self/body image or is it that many cannot afford it? And for the 6% who do have surgery, to which standard of beauty were they trying to aspire?
I chose to start my search for the white standard of beauty in 1960. I chose that year because at the time, a TV show was airing that sought to teach moral and societal lessons through fantastical tales. Two episodes of this show were very telling and prophetic, and they both dealt with how society viewed beauty and the expectations placed on women to be "beautiful". That show was, The Twilight Zone.
Beauty in 1960... Rod Serling offered us a tale of beauties and beasts in episode #42 entitled: Eye of the Beholder. Here's a brief synopsis of the show I found at The Twilight Zone Guide: Janet Tyler anxiously awaits the outcome of her latest surgery. Janet, who's abnormal face has made her an outcast, has had her eleventh hospital visit - the maximum allowed by the State. If it didn't succeed, she will be sent to live in a village where others of her kind are segregated. As her bandages are removed, she is revealed to be very beautiful. The doctor draws back in horror. As the lights come on we see the others, their faces are misshapen and deformed. As Janet runs from her room crying, she runs into another of her kind, a handsome man named Walter Smith. He is in charge of an outcast village, and he assures her that she will eventually feel she belongs. He tells her to remember the old saying: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Although the show was filmed in black and white, we can clearly see that Ms. Tyler is Caucasian. The doctors appear to have darker skin, nevertheless, the idea here was that the viewers empathized with Ms. Tyler because she was the classic blonde, slender beauty commonly seen in 1960's fashion magazines. As the show closes, the narrator speaks: "Now the questions that come to mind. Where is this place and when is it, what kind of world where ugliness is the norm and beauty the deviation from that norm? The answer is, it doesn't make any difference. Because the old saying happens to be true. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, in this year or a hundred years hence, on this planet or wherever there is human life, perhaps out among the stars. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Lesson to be learned...in the Twilight Zone."
1964: The Standard Continues Episode #137, in Season Five, is called, "Number Twelve Looks Just Like You", and was adapted by a short story called "The Beautiful People". In this episode, we meet Marilyn, a young woman who is about to go through a rite of passage in her community. This rite is called "The Transformation" and it requires citizens to choose among several models of bodies into which they will be transformed. The message here is that this society only sees one standard of beauty and that one will not be happy unless they look and act just like everyone else. Opening Narration: "Given the chance, what young girl wouldn't happily exchange a plain face for a lovely one? What girl could refuse the opportunity to be beautiful? For want of a better estimate, let's call it the year 2000. At any rate, imagine a time in the future when science has developed a means of giving everyone the face and body he dreams of. It may not happen tomorrow--but it happens now, in the Twilight Zone."
Once again, the beautiful people are all white and we don't see any women or men of color. What was this episode trying to tell black women about beauty? The closing narration: Portrait of a young lady in love--with herself. Improbable? Perhaps. But in an age of plastic surgery, body building, and an infinity of cosmetics, let us hesitate to say impossible. These and other strange blessings may be waiting in the future--which after all, is the Twilight Zone."
Beauty 40 Years Later
Some aspects of beauty standards have changed, but not much. We do see more black models and beautiful black women, but when you look at the majority of the more famous ones, (Tyra, Halle, Janet, Vanessa Williams, Beyonce, a few of whom have had plastic surgery, on their noses and other body parts), you can see straight away that they have many Caucasian attributes: small, pinched noses, lighter complexion, lighter eyes, straight, lightly colored hair. It is rare that you will see a model with very dark skin, a tight afro, wide, round, larger nose, and full, large lips. Flip through any issue of Vogue or Glamour and look for that image I just described. Then look for the first image I described.
So, are black women trying to aspire to the white standard of beauty when they seek plastic surgery?
According to Cynthia Winston, assistant professor of psychology at Howard University in Washington, D.C., We really don't know much about how blacks are influenced. Most of the research focuses on perceptions related to skin color. Foe most African-Americans, perception can be shaped by their environment. For example, an African-American woman growing up in an all-white neighborhood in Nebraska may be more likely than an African-American woman raised in inner-city Detroit to compare herself with white images of beauty.
(Source: African-American Women & Plastic Surgery: Self-Improvement or Self-Hatred? By Angela D. Johnson, Sept. 2, 2003)
Now What?
I suppose, it all comes down to how one feels inside about themselves. But there is this viscous cycle of doubt that women constantly face so it's often hard to reconcile your inner voices with the outside images thrown at you everyday. Many women buy into the trends and fashions that dictate beauty. TV shows and print ads abound with images of sexy women. Fitness clubs persuade women to join not so they will lower their risk of heart disease, but so they will aspire to be beautiful on the outside. No one tries to sell things that will help them on the inside.
In the end, you can look at all of this and say that there will always be standards of beauty and those who aspire to live up those standards, and those wanting to make a profit off those standards (cosmetic companies, ad agencies, modeling agencies, fashion designers, plastic surgeons, psychotherapists). The media portrays what people want to see and apparently, it's sex and "beauty".
Ms. Martin currently resides in sunny Southern California with her son. When she's not writing, she works part-time as a preschool teacher where she hopes to help all children develop positive self and body images.
7 Steps to Great Makeup
7 Steps to Great Makeup
1. Avoid wearing too much
Makeup is meant to enhance features not bring negative attention to you. That's what wearing too much makeup will do; it will bring you unwanted attention. Don't wear too much of anything such as:
1. Eyeliner: dark, thick eyeliner will make you look overdone and will ruin the rest of your makeup.
2. Mascara: too much mascara looks fake and will flake. It looks especially bad if worn with thick eyeliner or dark blue eye eye shadow.
3. Foundation: Make sure your foundation is the same color as your skin. Foundation is meant to protect and give the face a smooth look. The magic word is blend.
4. Powder: The same holds true for powder - not too much. Also, be sure to blend your makeup so there are no obvious lines.
2. Lips
Apply lip liner to completely cover the lips, add color and your lipstick will stay on much longer. Make sure your lip liner doesn't show. Also, your lip color should match your skin tone; wear cool colors if you have cool coloring and warm colors if you have warm coloring. If you want to make your lips look smaller, keep your liner on the inside of your lips. However, if you decide to make your lips look larger, going outside the natural outline of you lips is a mistake. This can look quite messy and unnatural.
3. Appropriate makeup
Wear makeup that is appropriate for the occasion. If you are going to the beach you shouldn't wear the same or as much makeup as you would if you were going dancing. Also, when you are in daylight your makeup should be a lighter than when you are out for the evening.
4. Too little or no makeup
Some women don't wear makeup because they are not sure how to use it and are afraid of being overdone. If you are unsure, start will light colours in your shade. Start slowly and add one product at a time. Maybe start with foundation, add mascara, blush or lipstick. If you are not used to wearing makeup, using a lot a first may be a little too much for you, so start slowly. The bottom line is a little is better than none. If you are still unsure seek professional advice.
5. Overall look
When your makeup is completed it should look natural. That means avoiding colours that clash. If you have dark skin and hair you will look better in darker shades; light colours will make you look washed out. If your hair and skin tone are light, light colours will look better on you. Dark makeup will make you look older and harsh. If you have oily skin, first use oil control moisturizer and foundation. Then be sure to wear loose powder, keeping pressed powder with you for touch ups.
6. Hair color
Your hair color should also be in harmony with your skin. If you have dark hair and you want to add color, keep it close to the same shade. If you have light hair, use light colors. As you age your skin will lighten, so should your hair color. One last thing about hair color - if you do color you hair be sure you keep it up, don't let your roots show.
7. One last thing
Keep makeup looking fresh all day by doing regular touch ups. Don't let your makeup fade or crease. Smile!!!
Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.
1. Avoid wearing too much
Makeup is meant to enhance features not bring negative attention to you. That's what wearing too much makeup will do; it will bring you unwanted attention. Don't wear too much of anything such as:
1. Eyeliner: dark, thick eyeliner will make you look overdone and will ruin the rest of your makeup.
2. Mascara: too much mascara looks fake and will flake. It looks especially bad if worn with thick eyeliner or dark blue eye eye shadow.
3. Foundation: Make sure your foundation is the same color as your skin. Foundation is meant to protect and give the face a smooth look. The magic word is blend.
4. Powder: The same holds true for powder - not too much. Also, be sure to blend your makeup so there are no obvious lines.
2. Lips
Apply lip liner to completely cover the lips, add color and your lipstick will stay on much longer. Make sure your lip liner doesn't show. Also, your lip color should match your skin tone; wear cool colors if you have cool coloring and warm colors if you have warm coloring. If you want to make your lips look smaller, keep your liner on the inside of your lips. However, if you decide to make your lips look larger, going outside the natural outline of you lips is a mistake. This can look quite messy and unnatural.
3. Appropriate makeup
Wear makeup that is appropriate for the occasion. If you are going to the beach you shouldn't wear the same or as much makeup as you would if you were going dancing. Also, when you are in daylight your makeup should be a lighter than when you are out for the evening.
4. Too little or no makeup
Some women don't wear makeup because they are not sure how to use it and are afraid of being overdone. If you are unsure, start will light colours in your shade. Start slowly and add one product at a time. Maybe start with foundation, add mascara, blush or lipstick. If you are not used to wearing makeup, using a lot a first may be a little too much for you, so start slowly. The bottom line is a little is better than none. If you are still unsure seek professional advice.
5. Overall look
When your makeup is completed it should look natural. That means avoiding colours that clash. If you have dark skin and hair you will look better in darker shades; light colours will make you look washed out. If your hair and skin tone are light, light colours will look better on you. Dark makeup will make you look older and harsh. If you have oily skin, first use oil control moisturizer and foundation. Then be sure to wear loose powder, keeping pressed powder with you for touch ups.
6. Hair color
Your hair color should also be in harmony with your skin. If you have dark hair and you want to add color, keep it close to the same shade. If you have light hair, use light colors. As you age your skin will lighten, so should your hair color. One last thing about hair color - if you do color you hair be sure you keep it up, don't let your roots show.
7. One last thing
Keep makeup looking fresh all day by doing regular touch ups. Don't let your makeup fade or crease. Smile!!!
Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.
Beauty Sleep - Is It A Dream
Beauty Sleep - Is It A Dream?
As women we know that a lack of sleep leaves us irritable; however most of us are unaware of the damage it may be doing to our skin? Besides being an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, getting 8 hours of sleep per night helps improve the texture and the luminosity of our skin. During the night the skin is restored from the harmful effects of daily stress. When we do not get the required sleep our skin suffers. This is especially noticeable in the fragile skin under the eyes. The under eye area is almost fifty percent thinner than the skin on the face. Sleepless nights leaves behind fine lines, dark circles or puffy bags. Cosmetic treatments can soften the effects of sleep deprivation but preventive medicine is the best cure. Eye treatments are limited in their ability and cannot reverse the stress that a lack of sleep will do to the skin.
Sleep experts say that we need 8 hours of sleep per night. However, the latest research shows that women average 6 hours and forty minutes of sleep during the week and 7 hours on the weekend. Besides the extra work that women have to contend with (helping with homework, laundry, cooking, etc.) and the many concerns that keep them from sleep, women are also be kept awake by - small children who wake during the night, teenagers coming home late, aging parents who get up during the night.
What can we do to sleep more peacefully and longer? Here are some hints:
1. Eliminate noise from your bedroom. Bedroom sounds should be low and consistent. Try earplugs.
2. Keep your room dark by using dark fabric on your windows. If that is not possible, try eyeshades.
3. The temperature of the room should be cool.
4. A relaxing bath before you go to bed will induce sleep.
5. Set a schedule to arise, no matter what time you went to bed the night before.
6. Turn your clock so you can't see the time if you wake up in the middle of the night.
7. Keep TV's and computers out of the bedroom, make it a place just for sleep and sex.
8. Get a queen-size mattress if you don't sleep alone. We need room to move.
9. Avoid alcohol before sleeping. While alcohol may help us fall asleep, it will also wake us in the middle of the night.
10. Avoid nicotine before going to bed because it is a stimulant.
11. Don' go to bed hungry or overly full. Have a snack early in the night.
12. Watch your coffee intake. Caffeine from coffee, tea, cola and chocolate can affect you for up to twelve hours.
13. If you fret during the night or if you think of something that you must do the next day, write it down so you can deal with it in the morning.
14. Try natural-fill pillows such as down or feather because they have the most adjustability. If you suffer from back pain put a pillow between your knees for a more comfortable sleep.
Happy Sleeping!!!!!
Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.
As women we know that a lack of sleep leaves us irritable; however most of us are unaware of the damage it may be doing to our skin? Besides being an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, getting 8 hours of sleep per night helps improve the texture and the luminosity of our skin. During the night the skin is restored from the harmful effects of daily stress. When we do not get the required sleep our skin suffers. This is especially noticeable in the fragile skin under the eyes. The under eye area is almost fifty percent thinner than the skin on the face. Sleepless nights leaves behind fine lines, dark circles or puffy bags. Cosmetic treatments can soften the effects of sleep deprivation but preventive medicine is the best cure. Eye treatments are limited in their ability and cannot reverse the stress that a lack of sleep will do to the skin.
Sleep experts say that we need 8 hours of sleep per night. However, the latest research shows that women average 6 hours and forty minutes of sleep during the week and 7 hours on the weekend. Besides the extra work that women have to contend with (helping with homework, laundry, cooking, etc.) and the many concerns that keep them from sleep, women are also be kept awake by - small children who wake during the night, teenagers coming home late, aging parents who get up during the night.
What can we do to sleep more peacefully and longer? Here are some hints:
1. Eliminate noise from your bedroom. Bedroom sounds should be low and consistent. Try earplugs.
2. Keep your room dark by using dark fabric on your windows. If that is not possible, try eyeshades.
3. The temperature of the room should be cool.
4. A relaxing bath before you go to bed will induce sleep.
5. Set a schedule to arise, no matter what time you went to bed the night before.
6. Turn your clock so you can't see the time if you wake up in the middle of the night.
7. Keep TV's and computers out of the bedroom, make it a place just for sleep and sex.
8. Get a queen-size mattress if you don't sleep alone. We need room to move.
9. Avoid alcohol before sleeping. While alcohol may help us fall asleep, it will also wake us in the middle of the night.
10. Avoid nicotine before going to bed because it is a stimulant.
11. Don' go to bed hungry or overly full. Have a snack early in the night.
12. Watch your coffee intake. Caffeine from coffee, tea, cola and chocolate can affect you for up to twelve hours.
13. If you fret during the night or if you think of something that you must do the next day, write it down so you can deal with it in the morning.
14. Try natural-fill pillows such as down or feather because they have the most adjustability. If you suffer from back pain put a pillow between your knees for a more comfortable sleep.
Happy Sleeping!!!!!
Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.
What Are Pigtails
What Are Pigtails?
There really isn't a huge debate on this subject, but there are some differences of opinion. This article looks at some of the differing opinions related to pigtails hairstyle definition, attempts to find some middle ground (perhaps unsuccessfully), and closes with this author's own definition and description of the ideal pigtails.
A ponytail is when the hair is tied together into a bunch and hanging from the back of the head. Most would agree on that. But if that ponytail is braided, is it still a ponytail? Some say it is, others say that this is called a braid. The same question applies to pigtails, the most common term for the gathering of the hair into twin ponytails (one on either side of the head). Can pigtails be braided and still be called pigtails? Do the terms "braided pigtails" and "unbraided pigtails" make sense? Some argue that "braided pigtails" are just "braids" and not pigtails at all!
The Random House College Dictionary defines "pigtail" as "a braid of hair hanging down the back of the head." Huh? It refers to ONE pigtail hangs down the back of the head, and calls it a braid? Hmm, there's no mention of TWO pigtails at all! Something doesn't seem right here. The dictionary entry for "ponytail" matches the definition I gave above. So what's up with all this? Is the dictionary wrong? Are there multiple dialectal or regional terms for twin ponytails, hence the difficulty for a dictionary to properly address the word's definition? Has the definition been too fluid over time for the dictionary to pin it down? And why doesn't the definition include the phrase "the cutest hairstyle ever?"
The word pigtail is also a wire cabling term that applies to a particular method for terminating an electrical cable's braided shield. (There's that word "braid" again!) Another technical, and even more contemporary, use of the word pigtail is for some sort of wireless accessories for radios or cell phones, or something like that - I haven't completely figured this one out yet.
A few years ago, a survey was done in a college classroom regarding the term pigtails. The students pretty much agreed that pigtails are two ponytails, one on each side of the head, and that they cannot be braided. If they were braided, they were called braids. The class instructor, being of a different generation, had a different definition. He believed that pigtails specifically meant two braids and that two unbraided ponytails should actually be called doggie tails. My personal analysis of this "experiment" is simply this: The instructor must have been elderly, or nearly so, and possibly losing his memory, so who knows what his generation really called "twin ponytails." And doggie tails? There is no way I could ever adapt to using such a term. The word dog, or anything like it, can never be used to describe a woman with the playfulness, boldness, and/or superior self-esteem to wear her hair in pigtails. The students clearly had a much better handle on what pigtails are all about.
So, where does this leave us? There appears to be generational differences and possibly regional or dialectal differences contributing to the debate (if you'd call it that). So, I'll put it this way: Pigtails are two gatherings of hair hanging on the left and right sides of the head. They may be braided or unbraided. But I'll add my preferences here as well, because the way I see it, there's one right kind of pigtail. Pigtails are far more attractive when unbraided. They should be located on the sides of the head, maybe a little behind and above the ears. Pigtails that are too high on the head, too low, or too far around in back, just don't possess the true spirit of pigtails. And pigtails without this true spirit are simply unable to work their undeniable magic on the wearer and those around her.
Bob Decker is a pigtails hairstyle aficionado and one of the webmasters at http://www.PigtailDreams.com. The website tastefully honors "the cutest hairstyle ever."
There really isn't a huge debate on this subject, but there are some differences of opinion. This article looks at some of the differing opinions related to pigtails hairstyle definition, attempts to find some middle ground (perhaps unsuccessfully), and closes with this author's own definition and description of the ideal pigtails.
A ponytail is when the hair is tied together into a bunch and hanging from the back of the head. Most would agree on that. But if that ponytail is braided, is it still a ponytail? Some say it is, others say that this is called a braid. The same question applies to pigtails, the most common term for the gathering of the hair into twin ponytails (one on either side of the head). Can pigtails be braided and still be called pigtails? Do the terms "braided pigtails" and "unbraided pigtails" make sense? Some argue that "braided pigtails" are just "braids" and not pigtails at all!
The Random House College Dictionary defines "pigtail" as "a braid of hair hanging down the back of the head." Huh? It refers to ONE pigtail hangs down the back of the head, and calls it a braid? Hmm, there's no mention of TWO pigtails at all! Something doesn't seem right here. The dictionary entry for "ponytail" matches the definition I gave above. So what's up with all this? Is the dictionary wrong? Are there multiple dialectal or regional terms for twin ponytails, hence the difficulty for a dictionary to properly address the word's definition? Has the definition been too fluid over time for the dictionary to pin it down? And why doesn't the definition include the phrase "the cutest hairstyle ever?"
The word pigtail is also a wire cabling term that applies to a particular method for terminating an electrical cable's braided shield. (There's that word "braid" again!) Another technical, and even more contemporary, use of the word pigtail is for some sort of wireless accessories for radios or cell phones, or something like that - I haven't completely figured this one out yet.
A few years ago, a survey was done in a college classroom regarding the term pigtails. The students pretty much agreed that pigtails are two ponytails, one on each side of the head, and that they cannot be braided. If they were braided, they were called braids. The class instructor, being of a different generation, had a different definition. He believed that pigtails specifically meant two braids and that two unbraided ponytails should actually be called doggie tails. My personal analysis of this "experiment" is simply this: The instructor must have been elderly, or nearly so, and possibly losing his memory, so who knows what his generation really called "twin ponytails." And doggie tails? There is no way I could ever adapt to using such a term. The word dog, or anything like it, can never be used to describe a woman with the playfulness, boldness, and/or superior self-esteem to wear her hair in pigtails. The students clearly had a much better handle on what pigtails are all about.
So, where does this leave us? There appears to be generational differences and possibly regional or dialectal differences contributing to the debate (if you'd call it that). So, I'll put it this way: Pigtails are two gatherings of hair hanging on the left and right sides of the head. They may be braided or unbraided. But I'll add my preferences here as well, because the way I see it, there's one right kind of pigtail. Pigtails are far more attractive when unbraided. They should be located on the sides of the head, maybe a little behind and above the ears. Pigtails that are too high on the head, too low, or too far around in back, just don't possess the true spirit of pigtails. And pigtails without this true spirit are simply unable to work their undeniable magic on the wearer and those around her.
Bob Decker is a pigtails hairstyle aficionado and one of the webmasters at http://www.PigtailDreams.com. The website tastefully honors "the cutest hairstyle ever."
Deep Vein Thrombosis...an In Flight Risk
Deep Vein Thrombosis...an In Flight Risk
DVT?
an in flight risk
by Cathy Gatson
Planning to do some long distance traveling this summer be it train, plane or automobile?here is some important information to pack with you to avoid this trip from being your last leg.
WHAT IS IT?
DVT or Deep Vein Thrombosis is a blood clot that develops in the deep vein of the leg. The Deep Vein in the leg passes through the center of the leg and is surrounded by muscle. Superficial veins are on top of the muscle and are visible to the eye.
DVT's usually occur in the lower leg between the ankle and the knee areas. DVT's are serious and can be fatal. Once a blood clot occurs, it can travel through the veins and get lodged in the lungs or heart resulting in death.
Since DVT can develop very rapidly, symptoms, if any may be difficult to detect. In fact, an estimated 50% of reported DVT incidents went undetected. However, seek medical advice if during or after a flight you experience:
ท Pain and warmth in the lower legs
ท Prickly sensation in the legs
ท Warmness or swelling of the feet or legs
ท Shortness of breath
ท Noticeable pain in the lower legs that worsens when walking or standing
IN FLIGHT RISK
What's the connection between travel and blood clots? Keeping the legs in a cramped position and inactive for long periods of time restricts the blood flow in the legs and increases the risk of a blood clot.
Some doctors believe that DVT is "more common today as a result of two factors, the increase in the number of frequent flyers and airline deregulation". As a result of deregulation, the distance between one airline seat to the one in front of it is no longer regulated. Many airlines moved seats closer together in order to fit more passengers on the planes thereby reducing the leg room between seats from 40 inches to 28.
Tighter seating arrangements plus existing medical conditions can equal danger.
ท History of blood clots
ท Cancer
ท Prolonged bed rest following orthopedic surgery
ท Estrogen therapy
ท Obese or very tall individuals
ท Birth control pills
ท Recent treatment involving general anesthesia
ท Cigarette smoker
ท Previous thrombotic episode
ท Congestive heart failure
ท Pregnancy
ท Dehydration
If you have any of the above conditions it is wise to seek medical advice before traveling.
STRAIGHTEN UP AND FLY RIGHT
Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of a DVT:
ท Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration before and during your trip.
ท Try to keep your thighs clear of the edge of your seat.
ท Wear loose fitting clothing.
ท Keep the legs uncrossed.
ท Wear graduated compression hose (www.healthylegs.com or www.supporthosiery.com)
ท Get up and walk for 5 minutes every hour. If you cannot stand flex your ankles up and down and curl your toes about 20 times every hour. These exercises will help stimulate blood flow through the legs.
ท Aspirin - it is suggested to take an aspirin before departing and at safe intervals during your trip - consult with your doctor.
Now, the informed traveler, get fly, go fly and be safe!
Further information
www.dvt.net, www.economyclasssyndrome.net.
Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of Yada Beauty Lounge, a hair and body salon in Northern California.
DVT?
an in flight risk
by Cathy Gatson
Planning to do some long distance traveling this summer be it train, plane or automobile?here is some important information to pack with you to avoid this trip from being your last leg.
WHAT IS IT?
DVT or Deep Vein Thrombosis is a blood clot that develops in the deep vein of the leg. The Deep Vein in the leg passes through the center of the leg and is surrounded by muscle. Superficial veins are on top of the muscle and are visible to the eye.
DVT's usually occur in the lower leg between the ankle and the knee areas. DVT's are serious and can be fatal. Once a blood clot occurs, it can travel through the veins and get lodged in the lungs or heart resulting in death.
Since DVT can develop very rapidly, symptoms, if any may be difficult to detect. In fact, an estimated 50% of reported DVT incidents went undetected. However, seek medical advice if during or after a flight you experience:
ท Pain and warmth in the lower legs
ท Prickly sensation in the legs
ท Warmness or swelling of the feet or legs
ท Shortness of breath
ท Noticeable pain in the lower legs that worsens when walking or standing
IN FLIGHT RISK
What's the connection between travel and blood clots? Keeping the legs in a cramped position and inactive for long periods of time restricts the blood flow in the legs and increases the risk of a blood clot.
Some doctors believe that DVT is "more common today as a result of two factors, the increase in the number of frequent flyers and airline deregulation". As a result of deregulation, the distance between one airline seat to the one in front of it is no longer regulated. Many airlines moved seats closer together in order to fit more passengers on the planes thereby reducing the leg room between seats from 40 inches to 28.
Tighter seating arrangements plus existing medical conditions can equal danger.
ท History of blood clots
ท Cancer
ท Prolonged bed rest following orthopedic surgery
ท Estrogen therapy
ท Obese or very tall individuals
ท Birth control pills
ท Recent treatment involving general anesthesia
ท Cigarette smoker
ท Previous thrombotic episode
ท Congestive heart failure
ท Pregnancy
ท Dehydration
If you have any of the above conditions it is wise to seek medical advice before traveling.
STRAIGHTEN UP AND FLY RIGHT
Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of a DVT:
ท Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration before and during your trip.
ท Try to keep your thighs clear of the edge of your seat.
ท Wear loose fitting clothing.
ท Keep the legs uncrossed.
ท Wear graduated compression hose (www.healthylegs.com or www.supporthosiery.com)
ท Get up and walk for 5 minutes every hour. If you cannot stand flex your ankles up and down and curl your toes about 20 times every hour. These exercises will help stimulate blood flow through the legs.
ท Aspirin - it is suggested to take an aspirin before departing and at safe intervals during your trip - consult with your doctor.
Now, the informed traveler, get fly, go fly and be safe!
Further information
www.dvt.net, www.economyclasssyndrome.net.
Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of Yada Beauty Lounge, a hair and body salon in Northern California.
No Flab With That Blouse is So Necessary
No Flab With That Blouse is So Necessary
A guide to toning up flabby arms
by Cathy Gatson
With Spring in the air and Summer just around the corner?it will soon be time to "change clothes and go"?sleeveless. If you've been shopping lately, you may have noticed many of the blouses, tops and dresses for Spring/Summer are haltered, strapless, or sleeveless, exposing lots of skin. The styles are sexy but flabby arms are not. If the backs of your arms are waving in the wind, then here are the most recommended and easiest exercises that I've found to improve muscle tone to your arms, shoulders and chest just in time for Spring.
The muscles you want to target are:
Biceps - located at the top of your upper arm. Clench your fist and make a muscle, the bump that should appear is your bicep.
Triceps - located at the back and below your upper arm.
Pectoralis Major & Minor - chest muscles
Push ups are a tried and true exercise which work the triceps, chest, and shoulders. You may modify the traditional push up by both knees on the floor rather than straightening them behind you. Place your hands on the floor in front of you, shoulder width apart and push your upper body away. Go at a pace that works for you but be consistent. Gradually increasing your reps. No need to go the gym for this exercise. You can drop and do 20 right before you climb into bed.
Kim King, head strength and conditioning coach for Olympic Sports at the University of Pittsburgh, suggests the following exercises:
Dumbbell triceps curl
ท Stand erect with back straight and feet shoulder width apart.
ท Hold dumbbell (if weights are not available substitute weights with 32 oz. waterbottles) in right hand and raise overhead with arm extended.
ท Keep upper arm close to head and perpendicular to the floor.
ท Slowly lower dumbbell behind head until forearm touches (nears) bicep.
ท Raise dumbbell to starting position and repeat movement.
ท Inhale when lowering dumbbell, exhale when raising (extending) arm upward.
ท Repeat with opposite arm. This exercise can also be done while seated.
Dumbbell triceps extension
ท Stand holding dumbbell in your right hand with palm facing in.
ท Bend forward until your back is nearly parallel to the floor.
ท Position left hand on left knee.
ท Position upper right arm against side (parallel to ground) with lower arm vertical to ground.
ท Press dumbbell back until arm parallel to floor.
ท Pause for a moment, then lower dumbbell slowly to starting position, then repeat.
ท Inhale when raising dumbbell, exhale when lowering. Repeat with opposite arm.
Hammer bicep curl
ท Stand erect with feet shoulder-width apart.
ท Hold a light dumbbell in each hand with arms extended down and palms facing inward.
ท Keep upper arms tight against ribs and perpendicular to the floor.
ท Raise one dumbbell at a time by flexing the arm at the elbow.
ท Curl movement should bring dumbbell in line with the shoulder.
ท Lower dumbbell slowly until elbow is fully extended.
ท Repeat with opposite arm.
ท Exhale during upward movement; inhale during downward phase.
According to the fitness manager at 24 Hour Fitness at Hilltop, Izaac Tyrell, the most effective way to reduce weight is "by eating a balanced diet (consisting of carbs, protein and a little fat), doing cardio-vascular exercises in combination with weight training".
Izaak reiterated what I've read in countless health magazines which is there is no "spot reduction" way to reduce fat in other words, there is no quick fix to flab-less arms!
If done correctly, the exercises mentioned, will yield noticeable results but only if incorporated with cardio exercises and a low fat, nutritious diet. Start now and by summer you should be able to brush your shoulders off and wave flabby arms goodbye!
A guide to toning up flabby arms
by Cathy Gatson
With Spring in the air and Summer just around the corner?it will soon be time to "change clothes and go"?sleeveless. If you've been shopping lately, you may have noticed many of the blouses, tops and dresses for Spring/Summer are haltered, strapless, or sleeveless, exposing lots of skin. The styles are sexy but flabby arms are not. If the backs of your arms are waving in the wind, then here are the most recommended and easiest exercises that I've found to improve muscle tone to your arms, shoulders and chest just in time for Spring.
The muscles you want to target are:
Biceps - located at the top of your upper arm. Clench your fist and make a muscle, the bump that should appear is your bicep.
Triceps - located at the back and below your upper arm.
Pectoralis Major & Minor - chest muscles
Push ups are a tried and true exercise which work the triceps, chest, and shoulders. You may modify the traditional push up by both knees on the floor rather than straightening them behind you. Place your hands on the floor in front of you, shoulder width apart and push your upper body away. Go at a pace that works for you but be consistent. Gradually increasing your reps. No need to go the gym for this exercise. You can drop and do 20 right before you climb into bed.
Kim King, head strength and conditioning coach for Olympic Sports at the University of Pittsburgh, suggests the following exercises:
Dumbbell triceps curl
ท Stand erect with back straight and feet shoulder width apart.
ท Hold dumbbell (if weights are not available substitute weights with 32 oz. waterbottles) in right hand and raise overhead with arm extended.
ท Keep upper arm close to head and perpendicular to the floor.
ท Slowly lower dumbbell behind head until forearm touches (nears) bicep.
ท Raise dumbbell to starting position and repeat movement.
ท Inhale when lowering dumbbell, exhale when raising (extending) arm upward.
ท Repeat with opposite arm. This exercise can also be done while seated.
Dumbbell triceps extension
ท Stand holding dumbbell in your right hand with palm facing in.
ท Bend forward until your back is nearly parallel to the floor.
ท Position left hand on left knee.
ท Position upper right arm against side (parallel to ground) with lower arm vertical to ground.
ท Press dumbbell back until arm parallel to floor.
ท Pause for a moment, then lower dumbbell slowly to starting position, then repeat.
ท Inhale when raising dumbbell, exhale when lowering. Repeat with opposite arm.
Hammer bicep curl
ท Stand erect with feet shoulder-width apart.
ท Hold a light dumbbell in each hand with arms extended down and palms facing inward.
ท Keep upper arms tight against ribs and perpendicular to the floor.
ท Raise one dumbbell at a time by flexing the arm at the elbow.
ท Curl movement should bring dumbbell in line with the shoulder.
ท Lower dumbbell slowly until elbow is fully extended.
ท Repeat with opposite arm.
ท Exhale during upward movement; inhale during downward phase.
According to the fitness manager at 24 Hour Fitness at Hilltop, Izaac Tyrell, the most effective way to reduce weight is "by eating a balanced diet (consisting of carbs, protein and a little fat), doing cardio-vascular exercises in combination with weight training".
Izaak reiterated what I've read in countless health magazines which is there is no "spot reduction" way to reduce fat in other words, there is no quick fix to flab-less arms!
If done correctly, the exercises mentioned, will yield noticeable results but only if incorporated with cardio exercises and a low fat, nutritious diet. Start now and by summer you should be able to brush your shoulders off and wave flabby arms goodbye!
Living Water
Living Water
A wellness of beauty for mind, body & spirit
by Cathy Gatson
"When the well is dry, then we know the worth of water", unfortunately many
of us take it for granted.
The significance of water is so much deeper than drinking 8 to 10 glasses per
day. Although vitally important; water quenches more than just our physical thirst?
Mind/Spirit
Wade in the water?. Just as water is significant in baptism because it symbolizes the cleansing away of our sins and the renewing of our spirit, biblically water is a reminder that when our spirit is dehydrated we can go to God's well and refill our cup over and over again. (John 4:7-14& 7:38). Water represents the tranquility and serenity that is necessary to reflect, renew and seek peace of mind.
Body
Inner - Water is necessary for nutrient and oxygen transport and for absorption and utilization of vitamins and minerals. Our bodies are made up of over 80% water. We lose up to 2 -3 quarts of water per day, more if you exercise. That water loss needs to be replaced. Without enough water, constipation, dehydration and a weakened immune system can occur. 8 - 10 glasses of water per day is the popular belief but did you know for every caffeine beverage you drink like coffee, tea or soda, you must drink an
additional 8 ounces of water. You can determine how much water you need per day by dividing your weight by 2?the result is approximately the amount of water you should drink in ounces. Drinking the daily-recommended amounts of water will result in a healthier, stronger body as well as reduce your risks of bladder infections, increase metabolism, keep healthy bowels and reduces halitosis.
Outer - Water improves elasticity in your skin leaving it more supple. Water also helps the body rid itself of toxins, which results in a more radiant complexion and adds a healthy glow to skin. Keeping your body hydrated not only keeps your skin radiant but it reduces acne flair ups and chapped lips.
There's nothing like a nice warm bath to renew your mind and cleanse your body. Add these goodies to your bath for a more enjoyable experience. Origin's "Peace of Mind"
Tension-releasing vapor bath is very soothing if you like the smell of peppermint and eucalyptus. Or Bath&Body Works' Aromatherapy Sleep Foam Bath is a soothing blend of Lavendar & Vanilla that will leave you on cloud 9.
Exercise - Swimming provides a great workout to your entire body. It's toning from head to toe, while providing an excellent cardiovascular workout. It also strengthens your heart muscles and improves circulation. According to the American Heart Association, just 30-60 minutes of physical activity 3-4 days per week can help reduce your risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. As a regular physical activity, swimming can also help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. Swimming is a relatively in expensive sport to begin, since you don't need much equipment. For most of us, a good swim cap is all the biggest challenge. For more information on pools in your area, contact your local YMCA, 24 Hour Fitness or gym nearest you. Swiminfo.com gives advice for swimming workouts.
A wellness of beauty for mind, body & spirit
by Cathy Gatson
"When the well is dry, then we know the worth of water", unfortunately many
of us take it for granted.
The significance of water is so much deeper than drinking 8 to 10 glasses per
day. Although vitally important; water quenches more than just our physical thirst?
Mind/Spirit
Wade in the water?. Just as water is significant in baptism because it symbolizes the cleansing away of our sins and the renewing of our spirit, biblically water is a reminder that when our spirit is dehydrated we can go to God's well and refill our cup over and over again. (John 4:7-14& 7:38). Water represents the tranquility and serenity that is necessary to reflect, renew and seek peace of mind.
Body
Inner - Water is necessary for nutrient and oxygen transport and for absorption and utilization of vitamins and minerals. Our bodies are made up of over 80% water. We lose up to 2 -3 quarts of water per day, more if you exercise. That water loss needs to be replaced. Without enough water, constipation, dehydration and a weakened immune system can occur. 8 - 10 glasses of water per day is the popular belief but did you know for every caffeine beverage you drink like coffee, tea or soda, you must drink an
additional 8 ounces of water. You can determine how much water you need per day by dividing your weight by 2?the result is approximately the amount of water you should drink in ounces. Drinking the daily-recommended amounts of water will result in a healthier, stronger body as well as reduce your risks of bladder infections, increase metabolism, keep healthy bowels and reduces halitosis.
Outer - Water improves elasticity in your skin leaving it more supple. Water also helps the body rid itself of toxins, which results in a more radiant complexion and adds a healthy glow to skin. Keeping your body hydrated not only keeps your skin radiant but it reduces acne flair ups and chapped lips.
There's nothing like a nice warm bath to renew your mind and cleanse your body. Add these goodies to your bath for a more enjoyable experience. Origin's "Peace of Mind"
Tension-releasing vapor bath is very soothing if you like the smell of peppermint and eucalyptus. Or Bath&Body Works' Aromatherapy Sleep Foam Bath is a soothing blend of Lavendar & Vanilla that will leave you on cloud 9.
Exercise - Swimming provides a great workout to your entire body. It's toning from head to toe, while providing an excellent cardiovascular workout. It also strengthens your heart muscles and improves circulation. According to the American Heart Association, just 30-60 minutes of physical activity 3-4 days per week can help reduce your risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. As a regular physical activity, swimming can also help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. Swimming is a relatively in expensive sport to begin, since you don't need much equipment. For most of us, a good swim cap is all the biggest challenge. For more information on pools in your area, contact your local YMCA, 24 Hour Fitness or gym nearest you. Swiminfo.com gives advice for swimming workouts.
The Eyes Have It
The Eyes Have It
Did you know Leonardo da Vinci sketched and described several forms of contact lenses in 1508, and in 1632 Rene Descartes suggested the possibility of a corneal contact lens? Civilization has come a long way from these early ideas to the high-tech advancements we have to care for our eyes today. We even have choices for improved vision other than through a contact lens or eyeglasses. LASIK surgical procedures are done on the eye and intended to reduce dependency on eyeglasses. It doesn't promise perfect vision, but it offers convenient benefits to people that don't want to put on glasses.
Millions of people are using gas permeable rigid contact lenses, extended wear, soft-lens, bifocal vision, a whole rainbow of color contacts, no-fuss disposables, and lenses that protect from UV rays. If eyeglasses are more your style, you have never had a bigger selection than what is on the market today. Make a bold statement with colors of eyeglass frames or let the frames blend into your face. I have four different colors of eyeglasses and I plan on buying more. If all of these options become tiresome, you might choose the LASIK surgery where your eye should become less dependent on glasses and you will have the convenience of not wearing anything on your face unless you want to. Wouldn't it be nice to wake up in the morning and be able to see everything clearly without putting on glasses?
Color cares for the eyes
Color contacts are fun and you can present a different personality to the world. Did you always want to be a blond with blue eyes - how about a red head with green eyes? Now you can because of the many choices available. Designer eyeglasses are in vogue so why not buy different eyeglass frames and treat them as jewelry, watches or other accessories that match your clothing? You might be looking for a fabulous pair of reading glasses to bring out in a restaurant. There are even styles of lorgnettes that you can stylishly wear around you neck, and use them as a magnifying glass when the need arose. If you have woodworking or remodeling projects to do at home, don't forget about safety glasses. They are also more fashionable, comfortable and functional than ever before. It doesn't matter if it is for fashion, fun or function; take the time to properly care for your eyes.
Did you know Leonardo da Vinci sketched and described several forms of contact lenses in 1508, and in 1632 Rene Descartes suggested the possibility of a corneal contact lens? Civilization has come a long way from these early ideas to the high-tech advancements we have to care for our eyes today. We even have choices for improved vision other than through a contact lens or eyeglasses. LASIK surgical procedures are done on the eye and intended to reduce dependency on eyeglasses. It doesn't promise perfect vision, but it offers convenient benefits to people that don't want to put on glasses.
Millions of people are using gas permeable rigid contact lenses, extended wear, soft-lens, bifocal vision, a whole rainbow of color contacts, no-fuss disposables, and lenses that protect from UV rays. If eyeglasses are more your style, you have never had a bigger selection than what is on the market today. Make a bold statement with colors of eyeglass frames or let the frames blend into your face. I have four different colors of eyeglasses and I plan on buying more. If all of these options become tiresome, you might choose the LASIK surgery where your eye should become less dependent on glasses and you will have the convenience of not wearing anything on your face unless you want to. Wouldn't it be nice to wake up in the morning and be able to see everything clearly without putting on glasses?
Color cares for the eyes
Color contacts are fun and you can present a different personality to the world. Did you always want to be a blond with blue eyes - how about a red head with green eyes? Now you can because of the many choices available. Designer eyeglasses are in vogue so why not buy different eyeglass frames and treat them as jewelry, watches or other accessories that match your clothing? You might be looking for a fabulous pair of reading glasses to bring out in a restaurant. There are even styles of lorgnettes that you can stylishly wear around you neck, and use them as a magnifying glass when the need arose. If you have woodworking or remodeling projects to do at home, don't forget about safety glasses. They are also more fashionable, comfortable and functional than ever before. It doesn't matter if it is for fashion, fun or function; take the time to properly care for your eyes.
Handmade Soap Facts
How many people know what soap really is? Several of the cleansing bars that you buy at the store, for example, are detergents-and not soaps at all. They are called syndet bars, or synthetic detergent bars. They are made from synthesized chemicals and are usually much harsher than soap. Detergents contain petroleum distillates rather than oil. On the other hand, true soap is made from natural oils (such as olive, coconut and palm) and is a gentle cleansing product more appropriate for use on skin than is detergent.
Soaps, unlike detergents, are made by combining sodium hydroxide or lye, oils and water in a process known as "Saponification". Some people may question the use of lye in handcrafted soap. The fact is that all soap is made with lye. What needs to be made clear is that once the process of saponification is complete, the lye and oil molecules have combined and chemically changed into soap and glycerin. There is no lye present in the finished bars of soap.
The oils in our soaps are put there for a specific purpose. The coconut oil creates a wonderful lather. The olive oil is used for a high quality, long lasting bar. Canola and Palm oil carry nutrients to the skin, and the safflower oil make a creamy bar.
Glycerin is a skin soothing emollient that adds to the goodness of handmade soap. In commercial soaps the glycerin is removed for sale to the cosmetic industry to sell separately, sometimes at a higher price than the soap itself! Glycerin is important to skin care because it is a humectant. Humectants draw moisture from the air, which in turn moisturize your skin. A whole 1/5 of a bar of our soap is glycerin.
Most soaps have artificial ingredients to scent or color. Some handcrafted soap is scented with fragrance oils. These are synthetic chemicals that are mixed together to imitate a particular scent. They have contributed in many cases to chemical sensitivity in some people. They also have no aromatherapy benefits. The scents in our soaps should come only from essential oils, which are steamed or pressed from plants. Essential oils are the fragrance emitting components of plants and are at the heart of aromatherapy. Not only do they smell good; they have many beneficial effects on the body, mind and spirit.
The coloring in our soap should come from nature as well. The petals of Lavender and Rose can be used. Earth Pigments can also be used, which are simply finely ground rocks. This makes the colors rich and earthy, rather than artificial looking.
Soaps, unlike detergents, are made by combining sodium hydroxide or lye, oils and water in a process known as "Saponification". Some people may question the use of lye in handcrafted soap. The fact is that all soap is made with lye. What needs to be made clear is that once the process of saponification is complete, the lye and oil molecules have combined and chemically changed into soap and glycerin. There is no lye present in the finished bars of soap.
The oils in our soaps are put there for a specific purpose. The coconut oil creates a wonderful lather. The olive oil is used for a high quality, long lasting bar. Canola and Palm oil carry nutrients to the skin, and the safflower oil make a creamy bar.
Glycerin is a skin soothing emollient that adds to the goodness of handmade soap. In commercial soaps the glycerin is removed for sale to the cosmetic industry to sell separately, sometimes at a higher price than the soap itself! Glycerin is important to skin care because it is a humectant. Humectants draw moisture from the air, which in turn moisturize your skin. A whole 1/5 of a bar of our soap is glycerin.
Most soaps have artificial ingredients to scent or color. Some handcrafted soap is scented with fragrance oils. These are synthetic chemicals that are mixed together to imitate a particular scent. They have contributed in many cases to chemical sensitivity in some people. They also have no aromatherapy benefits. The scents in our soaps should come only from essential oils, which are steamed or pressed from plants. Essential oils are the fragrance emitting components of plants and are at the heart of aromatherapy. Not only do they smell good; they have many beneficial effects on the body, mind and spirit.
The coloring in our soap should come from nature as well. The petals of Lavender and Rose can be used. Earth Pigments can also be used, which are simply finely ground rocks. This makes the colors rich and earthy, rather than artificial looking.
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