When it comes to imparting the look of health and vitality, the glow of a suntan can’t be beat. Thanks to advances in the chemistry and technology of tanning lotions, you can have a year-round tan even if you live in the harshest of winter climes. Indeed, there’s a tanning lotion for virtually everyone who wants to become a bronzed beauty.

Tanning Choices

When you want to achieve that healthy glow, you have three choices: relax outdoors, stay indoors, or go sunless. The type of tan you want dictates the kinds of tanning lotions that are available to you. If you opt for an outdoor tan, you probably want to start with a lotion that will help you build your base tan and jump-start your color. Next, you’ll need a tanning lotion that doubles as a sunscreen so that you can deepen your tan without burning. Finally, you’ll probably want to choose an after-tan lotion that will moisturize your skin, deepen your tan, and make it last.

If you decide to use a tanning salon, you’ll need an indoor tanning lotion. The type of tanning bed lotion you choose depends upon your skin type, how often you go to the salon, and the tan you hope to achieve. Generally speaking, however, you can use a tan accelerator to build your base and keep using the product until your tan has peaked. Next, you can use a booster lotion to deepen your color while moisturizing and protecting your skin. Finally, you can use an extender tanning lotion to keep that glow going.

If you want to (or have to) stay out of the sun or away from the salons, you’ll need sunless tanning lotion. A sunless tan is temporary (about five days), but the right products will make it look just as good as the real thing. Before applying a sunless tanning lotion, it’s important to exfoliate your skin. Because the sunless tan will only stay as long as your skin cells are intact, it’s important to slough off the dead cells before you start. You’ll also want to start with your legs and apply the sunless tanning lotion in a circular motion to avoid streaking. Next, move to your torso and then to your arms. Remember to wash your hands every five minutes or so, and go light on the tops of your feet, your knees, your elbows, your neck, and your face.

Buying Tanning Lotion

Because there are so many choices, it pays to buy your tanning lotions from a reputable online source that not only offers a wide range of products, but that also provides information and advice about applying tanning lotions. The best online sources have everything from bronzers and oils to SPF lotions and facial tanning products. Indeed, you should be able to find the highest quality designer tanning lotion at deeply discounted prices. Happy tanning!

It’s not easy in today’s society to truly feel beautiful. We as women are bombarded everywhere we turn by images and voices telling us we are imperfect creatures. Millions of dollars are made by various companies and advertisers telling us WE can achieve perfection via the purchase of some “beauty” product; eating or NOT eating certain foods, exercising with this piece of equipment or that one, camouflaging or uncovering certain body parts…Lord, it never ends.

Unfortunately, for a vast number of women we ‘buy’ into it, literally. We spend dollar after dollar on cosmetic products that one by one pile up in our “make-up” drawer, exercise videos and exercise equipment by one ‘perfect’ physical specimen after another (who because of our hard-earned money can now afford liposuction), chemical processes and extensions in our hair to achieve the most “flattering’ styles, we offer bodies up to the sacrificial alter of beauty to be plucked, waxed, shaved , exfoliated, nipped, tucked and for what? So we can continue to chase the always unattainable beauty ideal?

Don’t get me wrong, I prefer to shave my legs, I wear nail polish and lipstick and make-up (when I know I’m going somewhere groovier than the grocery store), and I don’t wear socks with sandals. But I’d like to think that if one day I awoke and couldn’t wear one cosmetic product, relax my ethnic hair or lose that extra 5 lbs; I would know that I was still a beautiful woman. And extraneous physical accouterment’s aside, I would not cease to be a lovely unique human being.

This is what concerns me now that I have a daughter. I look into the future and dread the day when she will come home crying (as many kids do) because someone at school told her she was ugly. As we all know kids can be cruel and most times they are repeating the things they hear and learn at home.

I would like to be able to not just tell her with my loving words but also show her by my life example that she is a beautiful girl. I want her to see that she is beautiful; not because of what she wears on her body, applies to her face or hair or by how much she weighs. I want my daughter to grow up with the knowledge that true beauty is what comes from inside and radiates outside in the acts of kindness and consideration you give to others, the way you love and respect yourself, the joy you take in sharing time with family and friends, and the sacrifices you make so that others can be happy. True beauty is loving yourself no matter what your shade, size, financial or educational situation. I hope as she grows up in this increasingly appearance obsessed world, that she can pass every reflection of herself with a smile of security and peace. I am only just reaching that place myself.

It has taken me many years of spending and self-doubt to finally realize that you cannot find in a bottle that which can only come from within.

Author: Felica D. DLP
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1120529_24.html

Having beautiful skin just seems to be the proverbial never-ending quest of women. One only needs t visit the local supermarket or beauty shop to see the wide array of skin products that are supposed to provide the secret to youthful skin. Many of these products promise rejuvenation and revitalization of the pores, making the skin blemish-free and silky white. Many of these products cost a fortune but the buyers keep on coming just to attain their goal of having the perfect complexion.

But unknown to many, one of nature’s best kept beauty secrets might be found sitting on a shelf in one’s kitchen pantry. Organic skin care has already been used by many because of its natural ingredients that can help the skin feel and look healthy, without the harm of other rough, harsh, and strong skin care components.

For many years, the earliest of cultures have seen the potential of olive oil when it comes to organic skin care. First cultivated by the Greeks over 4,000 years ago in Crete, olive oil was an integral part of the Minoan economy, and was often kept in large settling tanks. The Greeks then quickly learned that this organic oil had amazing properties. Aside from being a flavorful food source, olive oil was also used to heat oil lamps and to make soap. It was not long before the Greeks, together with other Mediterranean women, used it as a skin moisturizer and ointment for soothing dry skin and sunburns. Olive oil was also used as a skin highlighter, allowing the user to emphasize the curves and shapes of the body.

In terms of actual health benefits, the consumption of olive oil has been shown to stimulate bone growth and calcium absorption. Tests show that the oil helps prevent cancer, diabetes, and skin aging. Studies also show that the consumption of olive oil results in favorable effects on cholesterol regulation and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol oxidation. Olive oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, and anti-hypertensive properties. Since olive oil is rich in antioxidants, it is speculated that its use may help counteract the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Studies in Japan have also proven that the antioxidants in olive oil helps in neutralizing free radical damage.

While olive oil is not a sunscreen and does not prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin, using it as a cosmetic does help in protecting the skin against acquired aging and damage from the sun. Being an excellent organic skin care product, olive oil is also a superior moisturizer and humectant. It can attract moisture from the air and binds it to the skin. Skin conditions such as eczema and acne respond well to skin care products containing, or made with olive oil, because of the anti-bacterial properties of this organic oil. So before buying the latest and most expensive chemical-based skin care products, consider using natural skin beauty enhancers that contain olive oil.

Aside from its proven effects as a beauty product, olive oil can also be massaged onto the cuticles to restore nail strength and resiliency to the nail bed. In addition, olive oil may also be used as an all-body moisturizer when it is added to bathwater. Massaging it into the hair and scalp will also restore the head’s crowning glory. Indeed, olive oil is such a gift of nature that allows women to regain their youthful skin.

In high school, I was the guy cutting class with his girlfriends in the ladies room. Yah, I was a rebel like that. One of my best friends at the time, a dead ringer for Marilyn Monroe, always used to say, “No girl is too pretty for makeup.”
I think it was just her excuse to put on more lipstick or powder her nose; usually both.
The only time I’ve worn full face paint – in drag as Posh Spice for Halloween – the look was a far cry from your average everyday gal at the office.

It’s easy to pluck a few items from the bin when you’re painting on a clown face, but otherwise I have no idea how you ladies out there wrangle the vast abyss of the cosmetics isle. I’ve heard some people don’t come back. They become discombobulated by the endless choices and never return…
And so, naturally, one wonders what a woman must do to find her way. Terri Apanasewicz is here to help those poor lost souls along the path to a natural looking complexion.

Terri turned her professional knowledge as a celebrity makeup artist and founded P3 Beauty; creating a team of professionals who can teach you how to do flawless makeup in your own home. With her history of clients like Cindy Crawford, Heidi Klum and Gisele Bundchen, no doubt the P3 team has been making a lot of house calls!

Terri is all about making her beauty secrets accessible. Although we could not meet face to face, she was actually kind enough to email me a few pointers:

“When using a mineral powder foundation such as Amazing Velvet, apply your concealer, first and set with translucent powder and finish up with mineral powder. This will put a barrier between concealer and mineral powder so it doesn’t grab dark in the spots where there is concealer.

“After applying eye pencil, always follow by smudging it with a brush and set with a powder product like an eye shadow of the same color. This will enhance the eye and allow for a longer wearing liner.

“If you like color on your lips but not the feeling of lipstick, try a lip stain like Sheer or Shimmering stains from Liptini. They come in a large variety of colors. Finish up with a gloss. The gloss might wear off though the stain will stay on even after eating.”

Thanks girlfriend, you just scored me some points next time I’m in the ladies room!

Eating certain foods can dramatically improve the appearance of our skin, hair, nails, and eyes.

A diet rich in “phyto-compounds” can stimulate DNA repair, increased collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow. This not only keeps you healthy but it keeps you looking younger longer.

Creams and lotions can do wonders for your skin, but your diet is by far the most crucial when it comes to having healthy skin.

Beauty is dependent on the overall health of your body. In order for your skin to look attractive and vibrant you need to make healthy lifestyle choices, and a great place to start is with the foods you eat.

So if you want your skin to feel soft and look firm here are a few foods that you can eat starting today.

Blueberries: These blue little balls are one of natures most potent anti-aging foods. They help keep the skins elasticity, strengthen the gums, and contribute to the health of our eyes.

Brazil nuts: Help protect our skin from UV rays and they help reduce dryness.

Strawberries: Help protect our skins collagen structures. Collagen is what keeps our skin firm. Wrinkles form when our collagen levels start depleting.

Salmon: Promotes soft smooth skin, free from dry itchy patches.

Avocados: These contain folate which helps blood formation. This is essential for cell regeneration.

Acai: This is the king of all berries. It has 50% more antioxidants than pomegranates, and twice as much as blueberries. They also contain omega 6,9 fatty acids, fiber, calcium, and vitamins.

Apricots: Very rich in fiber and phytochemicals like beta-carotene and lycopene. They also have vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, folate, iron and potassium, making them very beneficial to our skin.

Broccoli: Also very high in fiber, vitamin C, and folate. There’s a compound in broccoli called sulforaphane that protects our bodies cells from injury.

Beans: Jammed packed with phytochemicals, fiber, folic acid, protein, calcium, and magnesium. These guys can stabilize blood sugar as well as lower cholesterol.

Black currant: Has a high source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Also contains a high amount of calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Carotenoids: This isn’t a food, but it’s found in fruits and vegetables. It’s a fat soluble pigment which helps fight against cancer and cardiovascular disorders.

Carrots: Have lots of beta-carotene which is a powerful antioxidant.

Cruciferous vegetables: A.K.A.- cabbage, broccoli, kale, collard greens, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts. These guys release a compound called glucosinolates and an enzyme called myrosinase when chewed, which are known for their anti-cancer properties.

Cranberries: High in vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamin E, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, and citric acid.

Cucumber: A great source of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for increasing collagen production.

Camu-Camu: Very rich in vitamin C.

Dark leafy greens: A.K.A – Spinach, kale, and dark lettuce are loaded with vitamins and minerals like beta-carotene, vitamin C, folate, iron, magnesium, phytochemicals, and antioxidants.

Fish: Has lots of vitamin A, B1, B12, and B6. It also has omega 3 fatty acids which are very beneficial to the skin, as well as the heart and brain.

Flax, grapeseed, walnut, seaweed, spirulina, watercress: These are very high in zinc which is vital for the health of our skin. Plus they have been known to help clear up acne, and help keep us regular.

Grape seed oil: Has trace elements of selenium, zinc, copper, and iron. It’s also a unique source for oligomeric procyanidine, which is known to improve our skins elasticity.

Honey: A nutrient rich alternative to refined sugar. Refined sugar is believed to contribute to aging.

Myrtle: Is known to slow down our skin aging process. Has been used in folk remedies for centuries.

Millet: A nutritious seed, high in silica, which is good for our skin, hair, and nails.

Oats: Very high in soluble fiber, and complex carbohydrates. High in iron, manganese, phosphorous, calcium, vitamins B and E, and silicon. Silicon is crucial for healthy skin by maintaining collagen levels.

Papaya: When applied as a paste on the skin, it’s enzymes help breakdown dead skin cells.

Pomegranate: Very good source of polyphenol antioxidants. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that can damage the skin.

Water: Hydrated skin naturally looks younger.

If you are one of the millions of people worldwide that spend money on lotions and creams in an attempt to look better, then it only makes sense to incorporate these beauty foods into your diet.

It wont take very long to start seeing the major benefits these beauty foods will have on the health of your skin and the way it looks and feels.

About the Author: Steve Billesberger lives in Edmonton Alberta with his wife and small dog. He’s a owner/operator of a couple of sites one of which is a health and wellness site. He is a big believer in feeding the body what it needs to heal and maintain optimal health. Along with many other benefits a proper diet can accelerate weight loss as well as protect us from skin problems such as cold sores, etc.

As we become more aware of our environment and more aware of the products that we are putting into and onto our bodies, natural and homeopathic products are taking the cosmetic industry by storm.

It’s likely you’ve noticed new skincare and cosmetic companies popping up with ‘all natural’ and ‘organic’ products. Of course, just because they say they are, does not necessarily make it true. That is where consumer education comes in, and why it is so important.

The title of this article is ‘Mineral Makeup’. After learning what mineral makeup is, what products go into it, and what its benefits are, you can decide if this is the right choice for you.

What Is Mineral Makeup?

Mineral makeup is designed from all naturally occurring products. It is often recommended by dermatologists to women with sensitive skin, rosacea, post operative, laser and other procedures because of its intrinsic skin soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a powder makeup of finely milled minerals. It can provide very sheer or very opaque coverage, depending on the formulation and application. However, it still allows natural skin radiance to show through, so you don’t get the dreaded ‘mask’ look. It is typically free of fragrance and preservatives. Minerals cannot feed bacteria, so there is no danger of spoilage, thus it needs no preservatives. It does not go bad. It is very good for oily skin because it has several oil- absorbing components.

It is usually applied with a brush, and is typically shown to be ‘buffed’ into the skin. This technique forces the makeup into your pores, which is never a good thing. A technique that works with better quality mineral makeup (which we’ll discuss later) is to ‘dust” the makeup on, instead of ‘buffing’ it. If a brush irritates your skin, you can also use a non-latex or flocked sponge. Application can be done either wet or dry.

What Are The Ingredients?

This is the most important part. Learning what is in your makeup will give you the ability to choose what will meet your needs best. These are the ingredients you will most likely come across.

• Titanium Dioxide- A white natural sunscreen and anti-inflammatory agent. It is highly reflect, with only a diamond being higher, and thus minimizes fine lines and some skin discolorations.

• Zinc Oxide- A natural sunscreen providing broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

• Sericite- A colorless mica that can be used to cut the opacity of Titanium Dioxide and also works as an oil absorber.

• Cornstarch/ Rice Powder- Cosmetic grade- An oil humectant (draws oil out of the pores). Can make acne worse as it is a source of food for bacteria.

• Kaolin Clay- Natural oil-absorption.

• Mica- Natural ‘glitter’. Provides shimmer and sparkle.

• Iron Oxides- Natural pigment- very opaque. Used for tinting cosmetics.

Ingredients To Avoid

These ingredients are also common, but can cause problems so are best to avoid.

• Talc/ Various Powders- Common fillers- can cause respiratory problems.

• FD&C Dyes- Derived from coal tar.

• Bismuth Oxychloride- Known skin irritant- causes itching, rashes and breakouts. Especially prevalent when the wearer sweats.

• Ferric Ferrocyanide- Controversial because of its suspected toxicity.

• Carmine- Crushed beetles.

What Brand Should I Buy?

Well, if you’re familiar with mineral makeup, it’s likely you’ve seen the infomercials. After further research you’ll find these companies use controversial ingredients, and charge quite a bit for their products.

There are several good mineral makeup companies out there that provide a much better product at a more affordable price, as well as a superior customer experience. They also offer samples, which the larger companies do not. You will get to try the makeup (unlike in the drugstore!) for a fraction of the cost before you buy it. They do not have expensive advertising and packaging to pay for, so the savings are often passed on to you.

From turning frizzy hair into a sleek and natural-looking style, millions of women around the world invest in quality hair straighteners, hair dryers, curling irons, and hair relaxers. Premium brands and companies are also investing in creating new products; the line of Sedu flat irons, Sedu hair straighteners, and ceramic hair straighteners are a popular choice for women interested in a basic style that stays in line with today’s hairstyling trends. When the Solia flat iron was introduced, many women found this to be a better option than other flat irons on the market.

The process of drying hair, then curling, relaxing, or straightening it is one that takes time and the use of quality tools and products. If you are using the wrong hairstyling products, hair can easily become frizzy, damaged, and even break. This can lead to poor moisture and “dead” hair that is difficult or impossible to style. Finding the right hair dryer for the task at hand is just as important as finding the best styling tools, such as hair straighteners and curling irons. Hair relaxers are most commonly used for women with excessively curly, thick, or African American hair.

Americans spend approximately 7 billion dollars per year on hair styling equipment, salon visits, and general hair maintenance. Although there are many beauty benefits of staying ahead of the season’s trends, changing the condition of the hair on a regular basis can cause hair damage.

Hair straighteners are one of the most popular ways to achieve a sleek and chic look, and many different methods have been tried. Still, one of the best ways to achieve this look is by using Sedu hair straighteners. These are combination of ceramic hair straighteners and ionic tourmalilne technology that make use of infra red heat. When a woman decides to use one of these tools, their hair becomes flat and free of curls without damage, because the heat they output is much less damaging than steam and standard flat iron hair straighteners in general.

Ceramic hair straighteners are becoming a popular choice because they are lightweight, can heat up quickly, and leave little damage to the particles of the hair. Women who do decide to straighten their hair at home need to find the best hair straighteners for their hair type, along with the best hair dryers for a complete routine. Many choose Sedu flat irons, simply for their ease of use and even heat distribution. The Solia flat iron is another popular choice and is constructed in a similar fashion as the Sedu flat iron.

Chi hair straighteners are another option for women looking to remove frizz and create a flat and sleek look. Chi hair straighteners first became popular with the Chi ceramic hairstyling iron. These hair straighteners and flat irons offer removable plates that also help protect the hair cuticle. Chi hair straighteners are designed in such a way that they help seal in color and moisture. Farouk Systems, Inc. is the only authorized manufacturer of the Chi hair products; finding an authentic model is an important part of the shopping process. Chi flat irons offer an adjustable temperature dial in addition to a flat heating option that provides intermittent heat for specific parts of the hair. Chi hair straighteners heat up very quickly, offering convenience and ease of use. The line of Chi hair straighteners is also available in three different sizes: Mini, Chi Turbo, and Big Chi Turbo.

When purchasing ceramic hair straighteners, especially Sedu hair straighteners or Sedu flat irons, it’s important to set a budget. Most of the highlighted hair straighteners range in price from $100 to $150, and occasionally will be more expensive.

In order to make sure that the hair follicles and strands do not become damaged, the best hair straighteners are made with high quality ceramic plates. These units are designed to maintain steady temperatures and will prevent excessive heat damage from occurring. Hair straighteners made exclusively with metal plates, for example, will have uneven distribution and may lead to overheating of the hair. Sedu hair straighteners, as another example, have become famous for their steady heat regulation. This is why the ceramic hair straighteners are becoming the standard of choice for hair salons all over the civilized world.

The width of the ceramic hair straightener is important, since coarse hair types require the additional width. The size of the ceramic plates is also an important consideration when dealing with long hair, because once again, the larger plates can help provide a more even and consistent straightening of the hair. Many top quality hair straighteners and flat irons come with attachments for different sized plates. For women who are trying to be more creative with their hair, the different attachments can help with successfully creating these different hairstyles.

We recommend that you spend the extra time to discover which hairstyling equipment will best suit your everyday needs and your desires to be creative. Once you have purchased your hairstyling equipment, be sure to read the documentation that is shipped with it, so that you will have a full measure of the capabilities of your new hairstyling tools. Once you have received your new hairstyling tools, you will find that all of your “bad hair days” are a thing of the past.

Author: Abigayle Shriver writes about women’s health and beauty issues. Before you run out and buy a flat iron hair straightener, curling iron, or hair dryer, there are considerations you need to think about. Cheap hair styling tools can damage your hair and cost you problems. EvenHair helps you learn the dangers of hair tools and lets you browse consumer reviews of the top brands like Chi, Sedu, Maxiglide, T3 and many others. www.EvenHair.com
Article Source: http://www.articlesoft.com

We’ve all heard the old adage, “You are what you eat.” But what about the connection between your food and your face? Most articles about nutrition focus on the role of your diet in maintaining optimum internal health and warding off disease. For example, many articles talk about how the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can fight free radical damage to your immune cells, your organs and your DNA.

Well guess what? The same phytochemicals, vitamins, nutrients and minerals that keep your insides in the pink are equally essential for clear skin, bright smiles, strong nails and clear eyes. If you want to look your absolute gorgeous best, keep these diet guidelines in mind:

* Antioxidants: Found in abundance in colorful fruits and vegetables, these nutrients help combat signs of aging caused by the oxidation – the rust, if you will, of our cells. Beauty foods that are potent sources of antioxidants include: pomegranates, prunes, concord grape juice, blueberries, blackberries, purple cabbage, kale, brussels sprouts, dried plums, kiwis, raspberries, strawberries, raw spinach, oranges, apples and watercress.

* Essential fatty acids: Certain polyunsaturated oils are called “essential” because they must be included in our diet. EFAs, like omega-3 and omega-6, may reduce inflammation that can clog skin and lead to wrinkles. Sources include seafood – such as salmon, sardines, trout and flounder – as well as almonds, walnuts and flaxseed.

* Avoid simple carbs: Some research suggests the insulin spike caused by simple carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta and sweets, may trigger a series of metabolic reactions that can lead to breakouts.

* Maximize water, moderate alcohol: Water, and lots of it, will help keep your skin hydrated, while alcohol in excess of one 4-ounce drink a day can dry it out. Also, some dermatologists say alcohol’s dilation of fragile facial capillaries can cause and exacerbate rosacea.

* Healthy fat: While it’s always important to minimize artery-clogging saturated fat, don’t shy away from healthy monounsaturated fats, like olive oil and other liquid, plant-based oils that keep skin emulsified.

* Vitamin C: Make sure to also feed your face with vitamin C to help maintain collagen, the most important component of connective tissue contributing to the underlying foundation of your skin. The best sources of vitamin C includes citrus fruits and juices, broccoli, cauliflower, cantaloupe, strawberries, tomatoes, red peppers and green peas.

* Weight-loss bonus: Pound for pound, fruits and vegetables have fewer calories than other food groups. Plus, they have plenty of fiber, so they’ll help you feel full. Such a fruit-and-vegetable-rich diet helps ward off cravings by ensuring the body gets the full spectrum of nutrients, minerals, vitamins and phytochemicals it needs to function.

Data from the National Weight Control Registry, which maintains records on more than 3,000 individuals who have had success keeping off a minimum of 30 pounds, suggests that the winning diet for long-term weight loss is a low-fat, complex-carb diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

This data was recently reinforced by an international study, conducted by Northwestern University, assessing the diets of more than 4,000 people in the United States, United Kingdom, Japan and China. The study found that, without exception, a diet high in complex carbohydrates, fiber and vegetable protein was associated with low body-mass index.

The bottom line is that there’s nothing more beautiful than vibrant good health, and there’s nothing healthier than a regime that includes plenty of exercise, rest, water, lean proteins, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables.

Author: TheBeautyAdvisory.com
Article Source: PLR Articles

Beauty and skin care are the two most important things to a woman. Making your skin beautiful takes a lot of work. Eating a balanced diet, especially foods rich with beta carotene, and taking some skin care treatments are crucial. Good skin care is essential to maintain the youthful glow of your face and skin. Skin care can also help in keeping the adequate moisture needed for your skin, not only helping retain the appearance of youth, but to ensure the health of it. A skin care regimen doesn’t really take hours, but nevertheless having a routine can have an important role.

Some of us are not born perfect , having a smooth complexion to complement a perfect smile. Some of us may have marks, scars, or blemishes. For older women, imperfections can take the form of wrinkles. However, you can still enhance or do something about it, with the proper care. This means a change of habits or lifestyles for those who live hectic schedules. Another piece of advice is minimizing stress and anxiety, which also have some effects on your skin.

SKIN BASICS

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and it protects the body from infection, injury, and harmful ultra-violet rays, so it isn’t a surprise that most women take good care of it. The skin consist of two main layers:
? the inner layer, or the dermis
? the outer layer, or the epidermis

The skin should be exfoliated at regular intervals to remove dead skin cells and give your skin’s surface a radiant kind of glow. The dermis, meanwhile, is responsible for giving the skin its elasticity. However, it also needs to be protected from the sun and other harsh elements. When the skin loses its elasticity, which is a sign of the aging process, it becomes sagging and wrinkles started to form.

SKIN TYPES

? OILY SKIN – prone to spots and blackheads
? DRY SKIN – easily wrinkled and needs to be moisturized regularly
? MATURE SKIN – a part of every woman’s aging process
? ECZEMA – is a skin disease often caused by allergic body responses
? ACNE – when the oil producing glands of skin get inflamed, it erupts to pimples and blackheads

SKIN CARE SOLUTIONS

1. CLEANSING – wash your face with any gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. It is preferable to use one labeled with balanced ph levels. If you have oily skin on your face, use a cleanser that contains a small concentration of benzoyl peroxide. The more polluted the surroundings, the more you will need to perform skin cleansing.
2. MOISTURIZING – excessive cleansing sometimes has the tendency to strip the skin of its beneficial oils. Those oils helps retain moisture and serve as a barrier between the polluted environment and yourself. You can remedy this by using a lightweight moisturizer during the day, with the option of using a night cream before sleep.
3. PROTECTION – the last step for good skin care is protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays, which can cause lasting damage to your skin, as well as cause problems like skin cancer. Use a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF15 every time you go outside, especially if you’re going to a beach and will be doing some sun bathing.

SKIN TREATMENTS

Whenever you have certain injuries such as cuts or allergic skin reactions, there are specialized skin treatments like creams and lotions available. For stretch marks, there is a specialize gel for it, though you also have the option to try herbals and organic skin care products. For extreme cases, you should consult a dermatologist.

For some minimal skin scars and other blemishes, some simple make over magic can be done by using a concealer. Just use a small make-up brush to dab concealer or foundation directly onto the blemished area.

Following these beauty tips, so you can transform yourself from an ugly duckling to a beautiful swan, without the need for expensive cosmetics. You can do your “make over” for glowing skin at home, and the results will yield benefits for you in no time.

There’s no question that women are raised to be caregivers. We give our love and energy to our children, to our spouses, and to our friends. We volunteer our time to our children’s schools, to our churches, and to causes we care about. We give our money to organizations that work on behalf of our communities, our country, and our world. And alongside all of that giving, many of us also give our intellectual power and physical prowess to the companies that employ us.

What About Me?

All too often, we’re so busy caring for everyone else that we have little time and energy to give to ourselves. Given that mental health experts and health care professionals assert that our generosity often comes at our own expense, we need to carve out time from our hectic schedules to give ourselves a much-deserved break. After all, we have to fill up our own emotional and physical well so that we have resources to give to others.

Loving Your Body

It may sound trite, but it’s true that when we love our bodies, we love ourselves. Taking care of our bodies from the inside out is important if we want to have the stamina to care for others. Eating a nutritious diet and finding time for exercise is important, but appearances matter, too. That’s why it’s important to invest in high quality beauty products that make us look and feel our best.

Take body wraps, for example. You can pay hundreds of dollars for body wraps at a spa, or you can invest as little as sixty dollars for body wraps you can do at home. Whether you’re aching for a seaweed wrap, a clay skin-firming wrap, a detoxification wrap, or an anti-cellulite wrap, you can find wonderful beauty products that take only an hour of your time and that leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Of course, there are other skin products that can also help you look and feel your best. Moisture hydration formulas, serums that restore the ph balance of your skin, and scar reduction treatments help you to take care of your skin and improve your appearance.

Even as we try to mask the energy drain we feel, our hair tells the true story. Rather than treating the symptoms of damaged or thinning hair, we can actually take the time to find hair products that actually solve our hair problems. Hair products that correct ph imbalances, boost hair vitamins, and purify and condition our hair can help us look and feel our best – while only taking up a few minutes a day.

Loving Your Mind and Spirit

Beauty products can keep us looking great, but we also need to engage our minds and lift our spirits. A rich inner life doesn’t mean neglecting those we love. Indeed, taking the time – whether an hour a day or an hour a week – to read, journal, or pray can give us the inner strength we need to support ourselves and those we love.

Make a resolution to take care of yourself. Buy and use high quality beauty products, eat nutritious foods, and fill your heart and soul. When you do, you’ll have that much more to give others.