Thursday, May 7, 2009

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Beauty of fashion and style

   

                  
 
 

Fashion & Style
 

 Beauty and style flows from hair, slim body,color of eye, luminosity, aplication of lotions, mascara, care of nail, finger and toes, shoe style etc. Further proper care for kids, teens at early stage including home made applications with massage ..........etc. 
 

 
1. Problem Hair & Natural Treatments 

Is your hair dry and brittle? Is the color dull and lackluster? Treat your hair yourself, using all-natural ingredients found in your own kitchen without expensive commercial treatments. 

CHOLESTEROL TREATMENT 

Would you believe that most commercially bought cholesterol hair conditioners contain alcohol? the very thing that dries out hair? Instead, grab a cup full of mayonnaise, some plastic food wrap and throw a couple of towels in the drier on high. 
Work the mayonnaise into your hair, starting by massaging it into the scalp and roots. Then draw it through to your ends until your hair is thoroughly coated. Pile the hair on top of your head. Take a couple of feet of saran wrap and wrap it around the top of your head to contain the mayo. 
Take a pre-heated towel from the dryer and wrap it around your head over the saran wrap. The heat will aid with deep conditioning. After about 10 minutes, change to another heated towel and leave that on for another 10 minutes. 
Remove the towel and plastic wrap and shampoo your hair as usual. Done once a month, this cholesterol treatment will keep your hair soft and shiny. 
* Tip:
if your hair ends are very damaged from chemical treatment, you can do this once a week. If your scalp is naturally oily, you might want to only add mayo to the hair ends for weekly treatments. 

 
2. SOLUTION FOR OILY HAIR 

If your scalp is naturally oil, you probably have to shampoo your hair daily to keep it from looking greasy or stringy. If, however, you are running short on time or need a quick lift in the middle of the day, grab a box of cornstarch and a large, clean blush brush. 
Pour some cornstarch out onto a dish and dip the brush into it. Then, with a comb, part your hair in the center and brush the cornstarch onto your scalp and roots. Make another part 1/4 to inch off-center and repeat. Continue this method down one side of your head, then from the center and down the other side. 
Go about your business for about 10 minutes while the cornstarch soaks up the excess oils in your hair. Then, take a brush and brush out your hair, ridding it of the cornstarch flakes. 

                            
  3. FOR A COLOR ENHANCER: 

If your own natural color, or your color treated hair, begins to look drab, all you need are a few ingredients from your garden or local produce store to brighten it up. 
Begin by boiling one quart of water. In a piece of doubled cheese cloth, add the following:            >>for brunettes a handful fresh rosemary sprigs (bruise by crumpling in your hand) 
>for blondes- a handful of dried chamomile 
>for "orange tone" redheads- a chopped-up carrot 
>or "berry tone" redheads- a chopped up beet 
Tie up the ingredient in the cheesecloth and toss into the boiling water, removing it from heat. Let steep for 10 minutes. 
Remove and discard the cheesecloth bag. Shampoo and rinse your hair as usual. Then, pour the warm (not hot) color-enhancing rinse over your hair. As a final rinse, use a quart of cold water. Once a month treatments will keep your hair color vibrant. 


   
 
4. BUILD-UP REMOVER 

Often the culprits of drab coloring and lackluster hair are all the styling products that we regularly use. They begin to build up and dull the shine and tone of our hair. 
Get rid of the build up by mixing 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 gallon of distilled water. This can be stored in a cabinet or the refrigerator and used every couple of weeks to keep hair squeaky clean. To use it, wet hair with warm water, or shampoo and rinse as usual. Then pour 2 cups over the scalp and let mixture saturate the hair. Finish up with a cold-water rinse. 

  

   
 
5. Celebrities always look skinny in red carpet photos 

So how is it that in pictures they all appear so slimly terrific? More importantly, how can we look 10 pounds thinner in photos? The secret is in the pose. (That, and the fact that they starve themselves a week before events and get sprayed by professional tanning people and wear gut-sucking Spanx and ...). Back to the pose. Here are five secrets to appearing 10 pounds thinner in photos. You can practice these tips in front of a mirror, but locking your door first so as not to be caught appearing vain
• Turn partially sideways to the camera, planting one foot in front of the other. Point your toe to the camera and place your weight on your back foot. 
• Pull head forward slightly to minimize any appearance of a double chin. 
• Hold arms slightly away from your body. This keeps upper arm flab from flattening out and therefore appearing flabbier (much like thighs do when one sits on a couch). 
• Pull shoulders back, chest forward and gently suck stomach in. Be careful not to suck stomach so far in that your ribs show, thereby causing those who later see the photo to cluck to themselves in a bemused, sing-song voice, "She's sucking i-in." 
• If you can get away with it without looking like a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Girl wannabe, try the look away trick. To do this, look away from the camera, then turn towards it, breaking into a smile just before the camera clicks. Your smile will appear fresh, not frozen. This trick takes practice behind closed, locked doors. 
When taking a photo it's also important the photographer does not snap the picture from below. This adds another 20-50 pounds to the 10 pounds automatically and annoying added by the camera. Find out why cameras add 10 pounds in this article by Geek Sugar. 

  6. Hot colors 

The hot colours for eyes this spring season are nudes, earth tones, golds, taupe, camel, nude pinks and peach. Dior has beautiful palettes called Parisian Lights 559 and Elegante 553. To define eyes, you can never go wrong with a black liner from Bobby Brown called Long Wear Gel Eyeliner in Black Ink. Dior Show in black will give you a nice full lash.
 
For cheeks, use light pinks to sandy colours depending on where you want your look to go… Nars Cosmetics has a good duo called Hungry Heart Blush Duo; it has pink and ivory. For lips, go with nude tones ranging from nude pinks to beige like Dior Addict High-Shine Lipstick in New Look Beige 220… or go for a punch with Nars' Shrinagar Lipstick. In short, the look this season is nude with a punch of colour on the eyes or lips… stay with nude pinks and beige; gold also works well on Indian complexion. 

The summer trends are radiant berries, corals and pinks. From sweet to edgy comes the sun-kissed bronze look... that you can never go wrong with… but this year you can add a berry lip or cheek to give it a pop. The biggest key is to blend blend blend… make sure you blend your eye shadows, bronzer and foundation…don’t leave visible lines; you want everything to look flawless. 
Bronzer is a must-have for any Indian woman and suits all skin tones… it brings out warmth from within and gives you a healthy glow; it can even out your skin tone, making your skin look flawless. Women with darker skin tone should apply blusher before they apply bronzer because most bronzers won’t show up well. If you apply a rosy blush first and then apply a bronzer on top of it you will get a rose bronze sun-kissed look. Apply bronzer with a big fluffy brush and concentrate on the areas where the sun naturally hits your face… cheekbones, bridge of nose, forehead and chin. M.A.C. carries a nice range from a matt bronzer to one with gold shimmer called Refined Golden. 

On the best method to apply glitter on the eye lids - Glitter application can be a problem but there are a few tricks that I have learned over the years… apply a cream or gel based eye shadow like M.A.C. eyeshadow cream base or eye treatment, get a damp brush dipped in glitter and apply directly to eye lid, and press in. This should keep it in place and prevent flaking. Also nowadays there are clear eye gels that you can mix glitter with and apply to the lids; it will dry and set on your lids… another trick I found is if you have a few glitter specs falling on your face, an easy way to remove them is to get a piece of tape and tap it on the glitter; it will pick it up without messing the rest of your make-up. 

   

 
7. On matte or luminous skin 

I personally like a glow to the skin; I don’t like matte skin… Frieda Pinto always has a little glow to her skin = youthful look. Some foundations have luminous qualities; Giorgio Armani has luminous silk foundation and they have a full range of colour. When you apply foundation, apply a light coat of powder… just enough to set it. I just powder the T zone and leave the rest untouched to get that natural glow… if I need a little more glow, I use a cream or powder highlighter. Nars has a multiple use cream stick in South Beach colour which has a nice shimmer.

  8. To cover up dark under-eye circles 

For dark circles, moisturise the under-eye area or use an eye cream. A good one is La Prairie Cellular Revitalizing Eye Gel; it helps reduce darkness and puffiness. Then choose a shade of concealer that is one to one-and-a-half times lighter than your skin tone. I like Amazing Cosmetics' Concealers; they have amazing coverage. Choosing a concealer that is too light will result in a grayish, violet cast and a concealer that is too dark will compound the problem. Use concealer after applying foundation. The foundation will partially hide dark circles, lessening the amount of concealer you need to use. If it feels too thick, or tends to look dry and cakey, blend it with a drop of eye cream, which will help absorb it into the skin and thin the concealer into a workable consistency. The key is less is more. Using too much concealer draws attention to what you are trying to hide. 

Another insider tip I use on celebrities with dark circles is Orange. If you have an orange blush or an orange coloured cream, you can apply it over your foundation just in the dark area to neutralize the dark colour, and then apply a little concealer to finish the job. 
As far as blemishes go, a little trick if it is raised and red is to put a few drops of Vizien eye drops on a cotton ball or a Q tip and apply to the blemish; this will help reduce the redness. And then apply a concealer the same colour as your foundation, not lighter or darker, because you don’t want to bring attention to it. 


9. Make-up products a woman must have in her bag for a 12-14 hour schedule during fashion week 

A woman’s must-haves in her handbag are concealer, mascara, bronzer, lip gloss…and if all else fails, a nice pair of sunglasses. 

   
 
10. Ten tips for getting rid of acne 

Karen Jessett, an expert on the treatment of acne and founder of www.acne-advice.com, has put together the following ten top tips for people who suffer from acne. As you will see below, one of her key recommendations is to use truly natural skin care products such as Raw Gaia. (In fact, our products sell extremely well through her website). 

a) Fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds - Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and snack on raw nuts or seeds. They provide essential minerals which help the skin fight acne. Green vegetables, sprouted seeds, Brazil nuts and pumpkin seeds are especially effective. 
b) Water - Drink lots of water to prevent the skin becoming dehydrated and help prevent blocked pores. 
c) Probiotics and prebiotics - Taking a probiotic supplement and eating prebiotic foods (such as onions, garlic, artichokes, bananas) will help restore the levels of beneficial bacteria that are destroyed by antibiotics. 
d) Supplements & superfoods - Even when we are careful to eat plenty of good food, sometimes things such as long-term antibiotic use can stop the body absorbing those minerals properly. Food supplements that aid acne conditions are maca, which can be blended into smoothies, and Nature’s Living Superfood, a highly-absorbable nutrient-rich superfood blend. 
e) Truly natural skin care products - Use only natural products (such as Raw Gaia’s) on your skin. Chemicals found in most skincare products will aggravate acne by causing your skin to produce extra oil, in order to counter-effect the harsh chemicals. In contrast, natural ingredients help to balance the oils in your skin. 
f) Reduce stress - Stress is one of the biggest causes of acne. Regular moderate exercise and relaxation techniques will reduce stress, increase blood flow and balance out your system. Try yoga or breathing exercises. 
g) Lower your intake of refined carbohydrates and sugar - An excess of carbohydrates (white bread, white pasta, etc) and sugar can encourage the body to produce more sebum-producing hormones which can cause or aggravate acne. 
h) Reduce your caffeine intake - Caffeine can also increase levels of stress hormones that will make acne worse. Tea, coffee and fizzy drinks are prime culprits. 
i) Reduce your intake of dairy and red meat - Dairy products and meat contain high levels of hormones, which can stimulate the body’s natural hormone production to cause acne. Intolerance to dairy products can also manifest itself through skin conditions and acne. 
j) Sunshine and fresh air - Get lots of sunshine. Just ten minutes a day will boost the body’s vitamin D production, essential for healthy skin. Take care not to burn though – apart from the dangers of premature aging, overly tanned skin becomes thicker, dehydrated, leading to congestion. 
For more information on the above tips and plenty more, please visit Karen Jessett’s website at www.acne-advice.com 

 

  • Fifteen tricks and tips on how to apply mascara correctly - If you suffer from thick, clumply, spider-like lashes, you may be applying mascara incorrectly. 

Tip #1:
 How to apply mascara.(Julyne Derrick) Ace your mascara application with a three-step process: 
Step 1: Wiggle the wand left to right at the base of lashes. It's the mascara placed near the roots -- not the tips -- that gives the illusion of length. 
Step 2: Pull the wand up and through lashes, wiggling as you go. 
Step 3: In this final step, close the eye and place the mascara wand on top of lashes at the base and pull through to remove any clumps.

Tip #2: 
How to use a lash comb. For some, lash combs are simply too fussy. But for some makeup artists, they're a great invention and keep lashes glob-free and perfectly separated. 
So how to use? Apply mascara at the lash base. Then wiggle the lash comb through to the tips of your lashes. 
Not into the lash comb? Get rid of clumbs without them by removing excess mascara from the wand. Wipe wand on tissue, this eliminates blobs BEFORE you start.

Tip #3:
Try a spoolie (a clean mascara wand). Sweep a clean, fresh mascara wand through lashes when they're wet. Don't worry, you don't have to buy them. When you finish a mascara, clean the wand in a capful of eye makeup remover, then wash with soap and dry. Keep it clean by washing it whenever you wash your makeup tools. 

Tip #4:
Don't shy away from colored mascara. Basic mascara rules are simple: Black works for everyone but can be harsh on blondes. Blondes should opt for brown/black by day and reserve black for night. Blue mascara, however, can brighten blue eyes while purple mascara makes brown eyes pop. The most popular mascara sold in the US is Maybelline Great Lash mascara, a great buy at under $6. The company estimates one tube is sold every 1.6 seconds in the U.S.

Tip #5: Thin, short brushes are best. A thinner brush allows you to get into the corner of eyes. Short brushes give you more control. 

Tip #6: Give a few coats to the edges by blinking. Blink onto the brush to give ends an extra coat.
 
Tip #7: Powder under the eye before applying mascara. Sometimes mascara smudges because it's attracted to oily concealer or eye creams. 

Tip #8: 
Use an eyelash curler Curling lashes gives eyes the appearance of being wider and brighter. Shoot warm air from your blowdryer on the mascara curler for 3-5 seconds to warm it up before curling lashes. Touch it first to make sure it's not too hot. It's a myth that you have to curl lashes before you apply mascara. You can curl lashes after mascara application, just make sure the mascara is dry first. Shu Uemura makes the most popular eyelash curler on the market ($18-$22). 

Tip #9: Zig-zag the wand. Zig-zagging the wand back and forth during application helps cut down clumps. 

Tip #10: For a dramatic look, apply mascara only to the upper lashes. To make eyes seem wider, apply to the bottom, too. But make sure you give lashes a light touch. Not great at getting those bottom lashes? Try putting a tissue under them before application. 

Tip #11: Use a mascara primer. Primers coat lashes and separate them before you apply mascara. Makeup artists swear by mascara primer. I tried it and like it, but because it's an added step, I usually use primer only on special occasion when I spend more time on my makeup. 

Tip #12: Want that 2nd coat? Just make sure to do it before the first coat dries, otherwise you'll get clumps. 

Tip #13: Do NOT pump wand in and out of the tube. This only introduces air into the tube, which will cause your mascara to dry out sooner than it should. 

Tip #14: Another smudge-proof tip -- bend the wand. A top makeup artist once gave his secret to his steady hand: he always bends his wand at a right angle. 

Tip #15: Wait five seconds before blinking. You don't want to paint your lids, do you? 

 
12. The Basic 4-Step Skincare Regimen 

Step 1:
 Cleansing Simple is key here. You need to find a good cleanser that your skin responds well to, and stick with it. (I list the best cleansers for skin types in this article - skincare company.net ). 
Avoid bar soaps as they tend to dry out the skin. According to Rona Berg, in her book, "Beauty," a French cosmetics executive once told her "soap should only ever touch your skin from the neck down." We agree. According to Berg, most cleansers contain oil, water and "surfactants." The oil dissolves oil on your face, surfactants dissolve dirt and makeup and the water washes it all away. The secret is finding the right mix of oil. (Makes sense to us). Too much on your skin will clog pores, while too little will dry it out. This is why you need to know your skin type. 
Be careful not to cleanse too often. Washing at night should do you. While some skincare experts swear you should cleanse skin with creamy cleansers that you wipe off with a tissue, never letting water touch your skin (some hard waters are especially hard on skin), we prefer the water method. In the morning, a splash of lukewarm water is all you need (we find it's great for removing excess oils from your nightly moisturizing). Never wash your face with hot or cold water (both can cause broken capillaries). Also be careful about overcleansing skin. 
Here's the best way to wash your face: Use warm water to loosen dirt and clogged pores. Use a dime-sized bit of cleanser, then rinse with cool or lukewarm water. You'll also want to take off your makeup with a proper makeup remover.

Step 2:
Exfoliate Exfoliation is the step most people skip in their weekly skincare routine. But trust me, if you start properly exfoliating your skin, you will notice an almost immediate difference. According to Berg, one of the reasons men's skin looks more youthful than women's is because men tend to exfoliate daily when they shave. There are several ways to exfoliate skin: Microdermabrasion, chemical peels and retinoids. 
Scrubs work by removing the top layer of dead skin cells that tend to dull your complexion. We find exfoliating skin once a week with a microdermabrasion kit keeps skin glowing year-round. Make sure you use a gentle scrub with tiny grains. Big grains in cheap scrubs can tear skin and cause more harm than good. My favorite microdermabrasion kit is made by Lancome. 
In the hour it takes to get a chemical peel, you can take off five years from your face. Can't afford the pricetag for a monthly peel? Try some over-the-counter peels that work over the course of a month. I prefer MD Skincare's. 
Retinoids (such as Retin-A) also work by removing the top layer of dead skin cells while also generating collagen in the skin. "Collagen is the skin's structural fiber," dermatologist Dennis Gross said in the October 2005 issue of O Magazine. "As we get older, it breaks down, creating lines and large pores." Skincare experts disagree on all sorts of things, but most of them consider retinoids to be a miracle skin saver. 
Should you use a toner? Some people swear by toners, but many beauty experts do not (I once read a skincare expert claim, 'toners are only for copy machines'). Toners are meant to remove all remaining traces of oil, makeup and dirt, but a good cleanser should do this. I firmly believe it's up to you. If you like the way your skin feels with a toner. Buy it. Use it. Enjoy it. 

Step 3:
 Moisturize While I know of at least one famous beauty editor who swore skin doesn't need moisturizer, basically everyone else I've read disagrees and is an adamant believer in it. A basic law of beauty is that everyone, no matter her skin type, should moisturize. Even if your skin is oily, it will benefit from moisturizers. (The only exception is those with acne). Why? Moisturizers seal moisture into skin (Berg calls this the 'Saran Wrap effect'). So how much should you moisturize? Your skin will tell you. When your skin is tight, it's crying out for moisture. Be careful not to overmoisturize -- this can cause clogged pores. 
Eyeliner can make even the smallest eyes appear larger. Applying it correctly is key, you don't want the line to be too dark, harsh and obvious or you risk looking overdone. Here we share our favorite tried-but-true eyeliner tips and then give instruction on how to apply a basic eye, a smoky eye, a bold eye and a cat eye.


13. Three ways to apply liquid eyeliner 

A typical way to apply liquid eyeliner is to line eye from the inside of the lashes outward in one big sweep. You can also line the eye from the middle of the lashline outward. Then finish the line from the inner corner of the eye to the middle. 

Step 1: Start with a completely bare eye, no shadow or mascara.
 
Step 2: Apply liquid liner in the upper lashes. Dot the liner into lashes, pushing them aside if need be. The result is not supposed to be a line. It's supposed to look as if the lashes themselves are super thick at the root. 

Step 3: Apply mascara. 

Step 4: Compare eye to other naked eye and see if you love the results.



 14. Different eye types 


The Smoky Eye 

Ahhh the smoky eye. Perhaps there is no longer running eye makeup trend than the smoky eye, which is in no danger of going out of style. The key here is to blend well. Also, make sure to keep all other makeup light or you risk looking like a clown. You don't want the rest of your makeup to compete with your eyes. 

Step 1: Holding the skin of your upper lid taut, apply eyeliner from the inside corner of the eye outward. Draw strokes into the lash line. The middle of the line should be a bit thicker than the edges. 

Step 2: Use a cotton swap (or your finger, if you're lazy like me) to "smudge" the liner. 

Step 3: Dab an eyeshadow brush into a deep-hued eyeshadow and apply over the eyeliner to set the line. (Blow on the brush first to remove any excess shadow). Layering liner with a shadow is the secret to a perfect smoky eye. 

Step 4: Blend shadow well, then follow with eyeshadow. According to the March 2006 issue of InStyle Magazine, with a smoky eye, "color should diffuse from rich and dark near the lashes to almost sheer as it extends to the crease." [For more on the smoky, check out this step-by-step article.

The Bold, Dramatic Eye 

Bold eyes are a dramatic choice for evening. Try eyeliner shades other than deep black for a super cool look. You can use either a liquid liner or try the makeup artist's trick and use an angled eyeshadow brush dipped in a deep-hued eyeshadow. Skip the pencil for this look. 

Step 1: Holding the skin of your upper lid taut, apply the liquid liner from the middle of the eye to the outside corner of the eye. 
Step 2: Draw a second line from the inside corner of your eye, letting the two lines meet. The outer edge of the line should be thicker than the inside. If you have close-set eyes, avoid taking the line all the way to the inside corner. 

The Cat Eye 

Forget the advice you may have read in the past never to line the inside rims of eyes because it makes eyes look tiny. Sexy cat eyes are a cool look for night. The key to this look is to apply a thin line to the inside rims of the lids. 

Step 1: Holding the skin of your upper lid taut, dot liquid liner along the upper lash line as close to the eye as possible. Apply line from corner to corner of eye, extending the line upward at the outer corner of eye. Let liner dry for a few minutes before touching. 
To soften this look (black liquid liner can be harsh), InStyle Magazine suggests trying a smudgeable pencil in a lighter color like dark brown or charcoal. 
Step 2: Hold down the lower lid and apply liner only to the outer three quarters of the rim. Fade out the line as you approach the tear duct, according to makeup artist Mally Roncal in the March 2006 edition of InStyle Magazine. Extend the liner upwards at the outer corners. 
For a softer version of this look, use an eye shadow brush and sweep a taupe or brown color on the lower lash line. 


 15. Tips For Better Skin In The Sun! 


We all know we need to protect our skin from excessive exposure to the sun's harmful rays. The sun's not all bad, of course: Sunlight helps our bodies create vitamin D. And anyway, who wants to hide indoors after the cold weather is finally gone and when it feels so good to get outside and be active? However, exposing your skin too much to the sun does lead to skin damage and premature ageing. So here are some tips that you may want to follow when you’re outdoors to help manage sun exposure.
 
  • Protect sensitive skin 
If your skin is sensitive, always apply some sunscreen. A minimum of SPF15 is vital. Preferably choose sun lotions made with as little chemicals as possible. Products made with “nano-sized titanium dioxide” are said to work well as barriers to UVA radiation. Here at Raw Gaia we are working on a sun protection cream to bring out for next summer.
  • Keep Hydrated 
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to plump up your skin from the inside out. The recommended daily amount is two litres a day but lots of fruits and vegetables will also help. Their antioxidant content will help to protect your skin against free radicals and sun damage. 
Healthy Diet, Healthy Tan 
As best as you can, stay away from caffeine, alcohol and fried foods, as these will dehydrate your body. Eat more raw vegetables and fruits, which is easier now that the weather is warmer. This will really help with the glow and tone of your skin. You will see that a better diet makes for a better tan! 
  • Be Wardrobe Wise
 Try to wear a hat as much as possible - it is the best protection possible for your face and neck. Long sleeved light gauzy shirts while in direct sun are also good as well as any other light weight clothing that covers your body. 
  • Retain The Moisture 
Always moisturise your skin as much as possible before going in the sun. You can use for example, our lavender floral water and then lock in the moisture by applying rosehip oil or hemp oil over your face. For the rest of your body, use shea butter which contains some sun-blocking properties (though please note that shea butter cannot be used as an SPF) 
  • Lavish Your Locks 
The sun breaks down the protein structure of the hair, making it brittle and more vulnerable to breakage. We recommend a small amount of coconut butter combed through the hair before hitting the beach. This will help to keep your hair moisturised and prevent it from breaking. 
TLC For Your Skin 
If you have been unlucky enough to get sun burnt then apply a moisturiser or body butter, as many times as needed. Shea butter is very good for these unfortunate occasions. Also applying a few drops of either lavender oil or rosehip oil directly to the skin will provide some relief. 
  • Long-Haul Flight Recommendations 
The pressurized cabin atmosphere in long-haul flights causes the skin to lose vital moisture, so guard against dehydration by boarding the plane with clean and moisturised skin. Our facial cleanser and floral toner along with our revitalizing eye oil with sea buckthorn fruit will work as barriers against water loss. Resist drinking alcohol and caffeine during the flight, as these will dehydrate your skin further. Keep make-up to a minimum and before landing, splash your face with cold water. 
  • Be Sensible 
Lastly, the sun is at its strongest between the hours of 10am and 4pm so if you must be out during this time, try to take regular breaks from being in the sunlight and also make sure that you re-apply your moisturiser every 2-3 hours. 
  • Skin Care Tips 
Wear a sunblock every day... The primary cause of premature aging is exposure to the sun without adequate care and protection. Don't wash your skin too often... Washing strips oil and moisture. Besides, tap water contains chlorine which causes oxidative damage. Washing your face twice a day is sufficient. Do not smoke... Smoking can cause the skin to age prematurely, as well as take on an unflattering sallow tone. Nicotine will reverse your anti aging routine quicker than anything else. Wear sunglasses... This will protect the eyes as well as the delicate skin around them. Take care in checking the products label and make sure they provide UVA and UVB protection. Warm water over hot... When bathing choose warm water over hot. It is not as drying and is more natural. Get ample sleep... Most of the body's repair and rejuvenation occurs while you sleep. Follow a nightly regimen... Apply products 1 hour before bedtime to allow ample time to penetrate the skin. Exercise regularly... It increases the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the skin, which will give skin a natural, healthy glow. Choose products carefully... Everyone's skin is different, so try several to see which products work best for you and which produce an anti effect. Never sleep with makeup... Sleeping with makeup is not natural for your skin. It may also have an adverse effect with your anti aging routine.


16. Hair care:


Since sometime in the 80's a myth has been circulating that blow drying your hair, and other heat applications, are bad for your hair. What a load of hot air. 
Your body vents tremendous amounts heat through your scalp 24 hours a day. 
Short of igniting your hair with a blow torch, heat is not bad for your hair at all. 
Frequently people report seeing smoke come from their hair while blow drying. Rightly so but it is not smoke, it is the hair product evaporating. What you see is condensation, not smoke. 
Any reasonable application of heat is just fine. That is not to say that you can kick start a curling iron full throttle and then just let it sit in your hair for 10 minutes. Use prudent care. Otherwise, no problem.


 Nails: Doing it Yourself 


a)  The most flattering nail shape is not long or short or square, it's "squoval" -- not quite square and not quite oval. Get the look yourself by filing nails into a shape that mirrors the curve of your nail base. Square tips can make fingers look chubby, according to nail guru Deborah Lippmann in InStyle Magazine. 
b)  To ensure your nails are the same length after filing, line each nail up with its counterpart. 
c)  Don't shake the nail polish bottle, instead roll it between your palms. This mixes the polish without causing air bubbles. 
d)  Before polishing clean nails, soak a cotton ball in nail polish remover and swipe across nails. This will remove any excess oils or soap than can cause peeling once polish is applied. 
e)  One trick for applying nail polish: Hold the brush between the thumb and middle finger while resting your forefinger on the top of the cap. 
f)  To get the best results, apply thin layers of everything. Start with a thin layer of basecoat, then apply a thin layer of polish down the middle then one on the left and one on the right. After the first coat dries for a couple minutes, repeat, then follow with a thin layer of topcoat. 
g)  Once your pedicure or manicure is complete, run an orangewood stick dipped in nail polish remover along either side of nail to fix any mistakes. 
h)  Speed up the drying process by aiming a blow-dryer at toes (set on cool) for a minute at a time. Be sure to keep the dryer at least 12 inches from your feet. 
i)  Gotta leave the house before your pedicure is dry? Apply cuticle oil over the polish. This will keep anything from sticking to your polish. 
j)  If nails are yellowed or stained, apply a drop of lemon or lavender oil onto the nails and then use a buffer to buff off the stains. You can also buff nails with a peroxide toothpaste such as Arm & Hammer Peroxicare. 
k) For an extra spa feeling to your home pedicure, nuke a damp towel in the microwave for a couple minutes, slather feet in moisturizer and wrap them in the warm towel. 

At the Salon 

ü It's my professional opinion that real nails are much classier than fakes. They are also much better for your nail health. So check out these 5 really, really tacky fingernail trends and skip the fakes. 
ü If you are super-paranoid about germs in nail salons, you can bring along your own tools. 
ü Cut the cuticle or not? Ji Baek, owner of the Rescue Beauty Lounges in New York City, recommends people not cut their own cuticles. The cuticle is there to protect the nail bed and a cut on a nail can easily become infected. Instead, push the cuticle back with an orangewood stick covered in a cotton ball. According to Baek, professionals are trained in cuticle cutting so most can be trusted. If you are paranoid (manicurists have accidentally cut into my skin one too many times for me), simply ask them not to cut. 
ü Like the look of clean, nude nails? Skip the polish and ask for a buffing or buff your own nails with a good buffer. Buffing removes ridges and creates a high shine that clear polish tries to emulate. About 30 percent of Baek's clients ask for a buffing over polish. "Fashion editors have it done before they go to shows in Europe," says Baek in InStyle Magazine. 
ü Skip the fast-drying topcoat unless you are in a hurry. Salons like to charge an extra dollar or two on this gimmick. While these coats do dry faster, they are more susceptible to chipping. 

   
  Protecting Your Fabulous Fingers & Toes 

o  A fresh swipe of topcoat every other day on your manicure and once a week on your pedicure will keep the polish from chipping. 
o  When it comes to chipped polish, a buffer is your best friend. Repair a chip by smoothing the ragged edges with a buffer (the more smooth the chip is, the better the fix is). Fill in the chip with polish. Once it's dry, apply a coat over the entire nail. 
o  Don't file nails after a shower, when they are too soft. File in one direction only to prevent tears. 
o  For a pedicure, use a special pedicure nail clipper made for clipping toenails. The straight-edge works better for feet because they don't allow nails to become curved, which can lead to painful ingrown nails (been there, done that). You can round the edges slightly with a file. 
o  Since cotton balls can leave behind fuzzies, consider a cotton band like Miss Webril (about $6 at beauty stores) instead. For stubborn polish that stains, press the cotton on the nail for several seconds before wiping off. Don't be stingy with the polish remover, says Baek in InStyle magazine. The more nail remover you have on the cotton, the easier it will be to remove. 
o  Protect a manicure by wearing rubber gloves when cleaning and gardening. 
o  If you suffer from dry cuticles, keep cuticle oil in your bag or on your desk at all times. Cuticle oils tend to be more effective than creams. 
o  Nail-biter? Get a manicure every week for 12 weeks. According to Baek in "Confessions of a Beauty Editor," if you can commit to 12 weeks, you won't bite your nails. It tastes gross and you'll also think twice because of the cost of getting nails done. Baek says many women backslide in week 3, but she suggests persevering.



 Tricks to get perfect colored polish for your toes and fingers. 


  Moisturize cuticles. Cuticle oils penetrate the skin bed best. Check out prices here:. Don't have cuticle oil on hand? Use a rich hand cream like Eucerin Plus Intensive Repair Hand Cream or even lip balm.   Prep nails by filing. File nails in an oval shape just like the curve of your nail base. Square tips could make your fingers look chu  bby. 
  It's important to wipe nails with a nail polish remover before applying polish even if you aren't wearing polish. Why? Oils left on the nail (like the hand cream or lip balm) will keep polish from sticking. But don't clean nails with cotton balls. Why? They'll leave little fuzzies on your nails. A better option is to use a makeup sponge or try these Stripper to Go pads from celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann. 
  Wrap the tips of your nails with polish. When applying polish, be sure to bring it over the front edge of the nail and slightly under the tip. This helps prevent chipping. 
  If the polish chips, it's best to remove the paint from the nail and start over. If you don't have time, dip your finger in nail polish remover and smooth over the chipped area and re-apply a topcoat. 
  Smudged your polish while painting? Try this trick: dip your finger in nail polish remover and use it to smooth the surface, repainting with a topcoat. 
  The secret to keeping nails from smudging: Dry time! Surfaces will feel dry to the touch after 10 minutes, but don't be fooled. It actually takes an entire hour for nails to completely dry. 
  When a nail breaks, the best thing to do is to cut it off. But here's a trick if the break is low down (& painful, undoubtedly): cut a tiny strip of gauze from a teabag, place it over the tear & the paint over with polish. 
  To maintain a fresh polish, add a fresh layer of topcoat every other day. 
  How long should your manicure last? Experts say one to 2 weeks. A pedicure should last 2 to 4 weeks. 


A couple expert tips learned over the years: 
o Want to ensure your nails are the right shape? Line each finger up with its opposite, cuticle-to-cuticle. 
o Fingers stained from nicotine, berries or too dark polish? Take a whitening toothpaste (we like Rembrandt & brush away the stains. 
o Two thin coats are better than one thick coat. You'll find it dries faster. 


Choosing Shoes 


When the weather is warm, and the styles are skimpy, more attention than ever will be paid to the shoes you're wearing. For sandals, thongs and flip-flops, this guide to summer shoes will help you find the latest styles, hottest trends, and top picks in summer shoes. 
 
Summer Shoes and Sandals 
This look at Summer shoes and sandals for 2008 will help you put your best foot forward by giving you an advanced look at the top trends and hottest styles in women's shoes for the upcoming season.
 
Shoes in Bright Colors 
Brightly colored shoes are hot this season, and you're going to be seeing a lot of pink pumps, salmon sling-backs and fuschia flip-flops. For some of the season's hottest footwear in bright colors, check out these top picks. 

Orange Shoes 
Orange shoes are hot this season, and if you love fiery footwear, you'll be happy to know, there are several great styles to choose from. Here are a few of my top picks in orange shoes for women. 

Sexy Shoes 

Sure, you think those strappy new stilettos are hot, but how does your man feel about them? Here's one's man's tips for choosing sexy shoes, and a few of his top picks in hot footwear. 

Glamorous Shoes 

Within each line from every brand or designer of dress shoes, there are likely to be some glamorous styles. But there are a few labels that consistently stand out as leaders in the production of glamorous shoes. Here are a few of my current favorites. 

Patent Leather Shoes 

I must admit, I've been a lifelong fan of patent leather. Hence, it's an especially good time to be me, since patent leather shoes have become so popular once again. Here are a few of my favorite styles for women. 

Nike Shoes - Top Picks 

Who knew there were so many Nike shoes to choose from? Including everything from sneakers to casual styles, here are my top picks in Nike shoes for women.

  •  Spring Shoes - Top Trends for Women 

Here's a detailed look at what's hot in women's shoes for the Spring and Summer 2008 season, including top picks and how-to-wear tips in all the top trends and latest styles. 

Blue Shoes 

Blue shoes are a great choice for any season and depending on the shade, can be very versatile as well. From sky blue to dark blue, and navy to teal, here are a few of my top picks in this season's blue shoes for women. 

Green Shoes 

Green shoes are hot this season, and these styles are among the hottest. And whether it's citrus green, olive green, lime green, or army green you prefer, there's sure to be something you'll love among my top picks in green shoes for women. 

Yellow Shoes 

Yellow is the color of the season when it comes to footwear, and there is no shortage of sunny sandals and and citrusy sling-backs to choose from. Here are a few of my favorites. 

Gladiator Sandals 

My dislike for gladiator sandals has been well-documented over the years. In fact, when I named my least favorite shoe trends of all time, I stopped just short of calling them one of the signs of the Apocalypse. 
But now that they've become a full-fledged trend, and there are so many Roman-inspired shoes to choose from, I've actually found a few styles that I don't totally hate. 

High Heel Sandals - The Highest & Hottest 

I didn't hold back here. I'm pretty sure I didn't pick a shoe with a heel less than three inches. So if you're shy or faint of heart, you might want to head over to the carousel and sit this one out. 
  • Top Picks in Espadrilles - Top Espdadrilles in Styles for Every Taste 
If you love espadrilles, this list is for you. From funky and colorful to tastefully subtle, there are esapdrilles for everyone among these top picks. Be sure to check out these top espadrille shoes and compare prices before you buy. 

Flip Flops - Women's Casual Flip Flops and Thong Sandals 

Whether you call them flip flops, thongs or beach shoes; these top picks in women's flip-flops and casual thongs range from sporty to classy - and will keep you comfortable and stylish all spring and summer. 
  •  Summer Shoe Guide 
A complete guide to this season's hottest shoes and styles, with top picks, shopping, and fashion tips.
  •  Women's Sandals - How to Wear the Latest Styles 

Flip Flops - Women's Casual Flip Flops and Thong Sandals 
Whether you call them flip flops, thongs or beach shoes; these top picks in women's flip-flops and casual thongs range from sporty to classy - and will keep you comfortable and stylish all spring and summer. 

Top Picks in Espadrilles - Top Espdadrilles in Styles for Every Taste 
If you love espadrilles, this list is for you. From funky and colorful to tastefully subtle, there are esapdrilles for everyone among these top picks. Be sure to check out these top espadrille shoes and compare prices before you buy. 

Metallic Shoes - Top Picks in Casual Metallic Shoes 
From gold thongs and silver skimmers, to bronze flip-flops and copper slides, metallic shoes are hot this season - and the shoes on this top picks list are some of the best. If you're shopping for casual metallic sandals, this list is a great place to start. 
Espadrille Retailers - Online Shopping for Espadrilles 
If you're shopping for Espadrilles, this list will help. From bargain basics to designer espadrilles, this list features several online retailers that carry espadrille shoes. 

Sassy Tootsies Flip Flops 
These rhinestone-embellished flip flop sandals are absolutely the cutest. Available for women and girls. 

High Heel Sandals - The Highest & Hottest 
I didn't hold back here. I'm pretty sure I didn't pick a shoe with a heel less than three inches. So if you're shy or faint of heart, you might want to head over to the carousel and sit this one out. 


Trying a new shoe style or brand is a great way to avoid becoming predictable in our choices, and it's always exciting to try something different. But when it comes to shoes, most of us have a few favorite brands and designers, and that's not necessarily a bad thing -- we know how their shoes feel, how they fit, and how they hold up. Below, I've included top picks in some of the more popular labels in men's shoes, so that you can try something new, or reconnect with an old favorite. 

Top shoe picks 

• Adidas 
• Allen-Edmonds 
• Ben Sherman 
• Born 
• Cole Haan 
• DC Shoes 
• Dr. Martens 
• Eastland 
• Hugo Boss 
• Hush Puppies 
• John Varvatos 
• Johnston and Murphy 
• Merrell 
• Puma 
• Red Wing 
• Reebok 
• Vans 
• Timberland 
• Rockport
 

   
  •   Health Care Tips for Kids 

Kids are born with a clear skin which needs little or no make up to look pretty. All kids need to look beautiful is proper care for their skin, hair and body. Some beauty tips for kids which will help you give your child a healthy advantage over other kids and make them look more beautiful are as mentioned below(beauty tips hub). 


Tips for Good Hygiene 
Cleanliness is the key to a healthy and glowing skin. So, encourage your kid to develop good hygiene and proper eating habits. 

Make sure your child bathes at least once every day. Use a soft baby soap, to bathe your kid since ordinary soaps may prove to be harsh for your kid's skin. You may add a few drops of eau de cologne to the bath water for a fresh feel. 

Oral hygiene is as important for your kid as it is for all of us. So make sure your kid brushes their teeth at least twice every day, once in the morning and again before going to bed.

 
  • Hair Care Tips for Kids 
The activities that kids partake in usually make their hair dirty and tangled. Therefore, it is best to trim their hair and keep it short and manageable. Give them a stylish and smart hair-cut as this will naturally help in building self-confidence. An oil massage, preferably with almond or olive oil nourishes the hair and ensures growth. Use a mild shampoo to clean off the dirt. Use a good and proven brand of shampoo available in the market for children. 

Avoid the use of hair pins and rubber bands as these could damage the hair shaft completely. 

Skin and Body Care Tips 
Regular oil massage before bath with essential oils or sandalwood and lavender oil will keep the kid’s skin soft and supple. During bath, scrub the body with natural scrubbers lightly. The feet and hands should be cleansed thoroughly as well. 

You may use a light moisturizing lotion after bath to help retain your the moisture in your kid's skin. Choose a well known moisturizer especially meant for kids. Dab your kid's skin with a good brand of fragrant baby powder for that clean and fresh feel. 

You may occasionally clean your kid's face and body with a homemade beauty recipe of gram flour paste and milk. Milk is a natural cleanser and keeps the skin soft and supple. 

Foot Care 
Make sure that you select the right shoes for your kid. They should be comfortable and not pinch the feet. Choose shoes made of soft leather or cloth that fit your kid's feet. When bathing your kid, make sure you clean the areas between the toes. Trim and clean their nails regularly. 

Good Eating Habits 
How healthy your child looks also depend on what they eat. Therefore make sure your child eats right. Good wholesome meals with eggs, milk, cheese, cereals, fish, meat and plenty of green vegetables and fruits should take care of your child's dietary needs. However, make sure your child does not over eat since this may lead to health complications later. 

Most kids are fond of chocolates. Don't stop them from eating chocolates and candies, but do ration them. And make sure they clean their mouth after eating. 

Cosmetic Tips for Kids 
Kids love the concept of applying make-up like the elders in the family. So if you are taking your kids to a party or if they are participating in various stage shows and pageants, ensure that the cosmetics are applied correctly. The choice of colors of the cosmetics must correspond to the dress they are wearing. The make-up should never be too heavy and the products must not include harmful chemicals that can cause damage to their sensitive skin, causing pigmentation and rashes. The lesser the amount of make up applied the better it would be for your kids. After the program, ensure that the entire make-up is carefully removed with the help of a cleanser or baby oil, taken in a little cotton. This will cleanse the skin and leave it soft as ever. 


  •  Beauty Tips for Teens 

Are you a teenager always feeling bad about those pimples on your face? Or do you crave to have that dewy fresh look at all times, even when you’re at school? Do you wish that you could do something that will keep you ahead of all the others of your age? The time has come when you can do all these and get the desired effect with little or no advice from the 
elders! Beauty tips for teens help you find easy tricks to make you look desirable and well groomed from the very first time you step into your teenage years(Beauty tips hub). 

The beauty tips for teens keep in mind all your wishes and desires, of the problems that you face during these times, trying to decide upon what to do and what not to do – the perpetual question being “How much or how less?” 
The teenage years cause a new change in the functioning of the body – creating different types of hormones that lead to burst of the ugly acne. This is also the time when teenagers undergo a personality change, and the ‘way they look’ become very important. You must have faced all these and then tried to run to your mother or other elders to find some beauty tips for teens that will help you build a personality and confidence of your own.

  • Useful Tips for teens 
To get pimple free skin reduce the intake4 of junk foods and colas. Always keep your skin clean and carry face wipes while you are on the move. 
Teens also face the problem of dandruff in hair . You need to wash your hair three to four times a week to keep your scalp clean. Once a week don’t forget to oil your hair. 
Use deodorants and antiperspirants to keep yourself fresh all through the day. You can add some essential oils or cologne in the bath water . 

Fashion tips for teens 

Instead of following the fashion blindly , wear clothes which suit you. You may create your own individual style statement 
Have a white shirt or tee then why not create some cool stuff with fabric color. Just dabble and create some pattern or write your favorite quote. You will just love the result. 
Teenage girls should keep their makeup to minimum just a gloss , kohl lined eyes is all that is required along with your glowing complexion. 
You must, however, bank on natural beauty products and products for teens to avoid any damage to your skin. So whether you are a teenage boy or teenage girl, establishing a daily care routine will give you the desired look. 

  • Homemade Beauty Tips 

Have you always felt drawn towards the consumer beauty products that you hear about on television channels and magazines and see in markets? Perhaps you have spent thousands on simply searching for the right one that suits your skin and hair type and was never satisfied with the end result. These problems could easily be solved if you look a little closer, in your own home and search for materials that are easily available to make some useful products that are harmless and inexpensive. Homemade beauty secrets go a long way in maintaining your glow even without the involvement of the chemical products(Beauty tips hub) . 

Age old beauty tips 

There are plentiful of homemade beauty secrets that have been passed down from times immemorial. These homemade beauty tips are time tested and can be used by people with any type of skin or hair. These tips come especially handy to those who are busy and have no time for parlor visits. These can also be helpful to those who wish to save money or want to combine the best of both homemade beauty products and parlor services. 

Types of beauty care 

Homemade beauty tips are available for face care, hand care, overall body care, feet care, lip care and hair care. These comprise of homemade beauty recipes prepared with the help of everyday use items and products. Following these tips will definitely produce positive results as they are mostly made of natural products. However, you need to be a little careful, as the preparation and application of these homemade beauty products can get a little messy. Read on to know a few of the homemade beauty tips, which are easy to make and apply. 

Some valuable beauty tips 

For the face, use ground apricot mixed with fresh cream twice a week for excellent exfoliating effects. 
In order to get rid of pimples and blackheads naturally, mix glycerin, little lime juice and rose water and apply on face before going to bed. It cleans the face of impurities and helps you to combat blemishes. 
For soft lips and lightening lip pigmentation, apply a mix of almond and castor oils every night before going to sleep. 
If you have dark circles or puffiness under eyes, then put a mixture of coconut oil and castor oil in the area and massage very gently with the ring finger until the oil gets absorbed. 
Replace cosmetic after shave lotion with a mix of witch hazel and a few drops of your favorite essential oil. This will not only refresh your senses but at the same time have a natural cooling and disinfectant effect on your skin. 
For natural conditioning, mix honey with cream and apply on the wet ends of the hair (not to the roots). Leave on for 5 minutes and wash off for a very smooth feel. 
For keeping your hand and feet soft and keeping age spots away, make a scrub at home. This can be prepared with coarse sea salt, almond oil, lavender essential oil and water – mixing all the ingredients well. Massage well on your feet and hands. Keep it for 10-15 minutes and wash off with water. 
For adding extra shine to dry and dull hair, mix a little amount of vinegar in the water after conditioning and wash your hair with it. Dry your hair with towel. 
Drinking plenty of water, having fruit and cereal enriched diets and exercising for 30 minutes twice a week will enable you to get the over all glow. 
Regular usage of the beauty products made at home and remembering the useful homemade beauty tips will help you to keep the youthful look even in the later stages of life. So go through the links of beautytipshub to know about all these tips in details! 

  • Beauty Massages 

A nice massage that caters to an ailing neck, shoulder or back muscles is nothing short of a "wonder treatment" for many. There is nothing like a good massage to help you relax, as it circulates blood and refreshes your mind, body and soul (beauty tips hub) . 

A massage is a superficial treatment on the surface of the body that involves finger movements on the affected areas. These are generally performed for relieving cramps, muscle stiffness and spasms. Often a good massage can relax your pains and aches and reduce stress and anxiety. 

Massage facts:
 
Some of the basic massage techniques include finger movement techniques in the form of stroking, kneading, and rubbing. These methods provide physical stimulation 
and emotional healing. 
There are certain massage therapies meant only for some areas of the body; those massages follow particular techniques. 
Stimulating lymphatic system is possible by following certain massage procedures. 
The choice of massage oils is very essential for the massage. 

Types of Massages: 

There are many types of massages, well known around the world. These are generalized according to their eastern and western origin. While the eastern massages mainly deal with understanding the body energy, the western massages are concerned with anatomical understanding of the human body.
 
  • Some common eastern types of massage: 

Shiatsu- this is a Japanese massage where fingers create pressure following a rhythm on the acupuncture meridians. The pressure points are held for 2-8 seconds; it helps to regain body balance and enhances the energy flow. 

Acupressure- this is a beneficial bodywork which is based on the traditional Chinese meridian theory where acupuncture points are hard-pressed for stimulating the energy flow or chi. 

Polarity- this therapy is a combination of healing bodywork, dietary modifications and yoga styled exercises. Tui Na and Jin Shin Do are two other massage types. 
Some common western types of massage: 

Swedish-this consists of five different strokes and their variations. 

Neuromuscular Therapy-this balances the nervous system of the body. 

Myofascial Release- relieves tension in the body tissues. 
There are many more types of massage techniques apart from what has been mentioned above. Browse through our pages to learn more about the different types of massage.