Healthy Aging Quick Tips
http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/healthy_aging/healthy_aging_quick_tips?utm_source=EWHNL
1. Keep an eye on fat.
As you age, your metabolism slows, and so your calorie needs decrease. Fat is relatively high in calories so be sure to eat only moderate amounts of healthy kinds (like monounsaturated fats in olives and avocados and omega-3s in fish). Limit saturated fats by choosing lower-fat versions of milk, yogurt and cheese and opting for fish, lean poultry and legumes in place of fatty red meats. Keep in mind that many low-fat or fat-free products—even healthy ones like yogurt—often contain added sugars, which bump up the calorie content. Read labels.
2. Mix foods and meds mindfully.
Food, alcohol and dietary supplements can interact with prescription drugs, changing the effectiveness of the drug or the way your body absorbs nutrients. For example, vitamin K can make the blood clot faster, so if you're on a blood-thinning medication, your doctor may tell you to avoid large amounts of foods that are high in K. These include leafy greens, such as kale, spinach, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Keep your doctor and pharmacist informed about any vitamin, mineral or herbal supplements you are using. And ask about interactions between whatever you are taking and food or alcohol.
3. Go fish for healthy vision.
Some research shows that people who have a higher dietary intake of foods containing omega-3 fatty acids from fish have a reduced risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration, a condition characterized by the deterioration of the central retina (a.k.a., macula) that is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50. Each week, aim to eat two servings of fish. Top a vegetable salad with poached salmon for lunch; serve a savory tilapia recipe for dinner.
4. Fill up on fresh fruit.
Unfortunately, constipation often becomes more common as you age—but you filling up on fiber and fluids can help improve digestion. Water and fiber are two main components of fresh fruits (which provide disease-fighting phytonutrients too), so eat a colorful mix: berries, oranges, grapes, pears, watermelon… whatever you like best!
5. Start the calcium count in the morning.
The risk for osteoporosis increases with age, but getting enough calcium (1,200 mg per day is the recommended amount for people over 50) can help reduce your risk. Get halfway to this goal—before lunch—by including a cup of calcium-fortified orange juice at breakfast and having a cup of low-fat yogurt for a midmorning snack.
6. Iron out changes in recommended nutrient intakes.
After menopause, women need only 8 mg of iron each day (same as what men need)—that’s less than half of the recommended intake of the mineral for women of child-bearing age. Too much iron can be harmful, particularly for people who have hemochromatosis, a genetic condition that causes a buildup of iron in the body’s organs. You don’t have to scale back on healthy iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans and leafy greens, but if you’re taking a multivitamin that includes iron, check to see that it doesn’t exceed your recommended 8 mg.
7. Write what you bite.
If middle-aged spread is creeping up on you—literally—try writing down what you eat in a food journal. Studies show that people consistently tend to underestimate what they eat and keeping track can give you a more accurate idea of how many calories you’re consuming and also help you see where you might cut back.
MY THOUGHTS
Why does everything seem to be harder to do when we're older? Maybe if we were more mindful of our health when we were younger, there won't be much maintenance required.
Showing posts with label personal beauty care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label personal beauty care. Show all posts
Friday, May 27, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
AGE SPOTS AND SKIN TAGS
Ask Suzy Cohen
By Suzy Cohen, R.Ph., Lifescript Pharmacist
Published April 23, 2011
Dear Suzy Cohen,
I used to have beautiful skin. Now as I get older I notice more and more age spots. My questions: How to get rid of age spots and stop more from forming? Why do some people get skin tags as they age?
-K.S. Lodi, California
Hi K.S.
Fortunately, skin tags and age spots are benign. A visit to your dermatologist is the quickest and easiest way to eliminate either problem.
In just one or two visits your doctor can snip or freeze away most skin tags and literally erase age spots with a laser beam. Snip, zap and your skin is clear. These are minor procedures and not too expensive.
Age spots, the discolorations that appear mostly on hands and face as we age, are pigment deposits resulting from a lifetime of sun exposure. These pesky little spots are nature’s way of saying that you’ve overdone it.
Over-the-counter bleaching creams with either hydroquinone or kojic acid aren’t going to perform any miracles, but they aren’t harmful either. They help lighten the appearance of age spots. They take time and their effect is mild. Follow label directions and discontinue use if they irritate your skin.
Some people have reported success with an old-fashioned treatment for age spots – castor oil. Simply rub the oil on the spots a couple times a day for several weeks and see if it helps to fade them. I like this remedy because the oil-derived from the castor bean is kind to many skin conditions.
Skin tags, those unsightly little tabs that appear mainly on face, hands, and chest seem to arise more frequently during middle age and in those who are overweight. Almost half the adult population seems to have at least a few.
One dermatologist-approved technique to remove larger skin tags is to gently tie them off with string or dental floss. Apparently, they drop off in a couple of days.
Please don’t attempt this for tags in awkward locations, like the eyelids. Better yet, ask your dermatologist if this home remedy is OK.
Until now, medical science believed that skin tags happen when sensitive skin is rubbed or irritated. But in 2010, Brazilian researchers found that multiple skin tags are “strongly associated” with insulin resistance, a condition that foreshadows the development of diabetes. Your doctor can test you for this condition.
Want to know more? Get your own copy of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Drug Muggers: How To Keep Your Medicine From Stealing the Life Out of You!
MY THOUGHTS
In case you're wondering, here are some pics
By Suzy Cohen, R.Ph., Lifescript Pharmacist
Published April 23, 2011
Dear Suzy Cohen,
I used to have beautiful skin. Now as I get older I notice more and more age spots. My questions: How to get rid of age spots and stop more from forming? Why do some people get skin tags as they age?
-K.S. Lodi, California
Hi K.S.
Fortunately, skin tags and age spots are benign. A visit to your dermatologist is the quickest and easiest way to eliminate either problem.
In just one or two visits your doctor can snip or freeze away most skin tags and literally erase age spots with a laser beam. Snip, zap and your skin is clear. These are minor procedures and not too expensive.
Age spots, the discolorations that appear mostly on hands and face as we age, are pigment deposits resulting from a lifetime of sun exposure. These pesky little spots are nature’s way of saying that you’ve overdone it.
Over-the-counter bleaching creams with either hydroquinone or kojic acid aren’t going to perform any miracles, but they aren’t harmful either. They help lighten the appearance of age spots. They take time and their effect is mild. Follow label directions and discontinue use if they irritate your skin.
Some people have reported success with an old-fashioned treatment for age spots – castor oil. Simply rub the oil on the spots a couple times a day for several weeks and see if it helps to fade them. I like this remedy because the oil-derived from the castor bean is kind to many skin conditions.
Skin tags, those unsightly little tabs that appear mainly on face, hands, and chest seem to arise more frequently during middle age and in those who are overweight. Almost half the adult population seems to have at least a few.
One dermatologist-approved technique to remove larger skin tags is to gently tie them off with string or dental floss. Apparently, they drop off in a couple of days.
Please don’t attempt this for tags in awkward locations, like the eyelids. Better yet, ask your dermatologist if this home remedy is OK.
Until now, medical science believed that skin tags happen when sensitive skin is rubbed or irritated. But in 2010, Brazilian researchers found that multiple skin tags are “strongly associated” with insulin resistance, a condition that foreshadows the development of diabetes. Your doctor can test you for this condition.
Want to know more? Get your own copy of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Drug Muggers: How To Keep Your Medicine From Stealing the Life Out of You!
MY THOUGHTS
In case you're wondering, here are some pics
 |
| FROM herbalgranny.com |
 |
| from homeremediesweb.com |
 |
| Eye skin tag from hubpages.com |
 |
| skin tags from coppertrees.com |
Saturday, April 16, 2011
CREAM, OIL OR LOTION?
CREAM, OIL OR LOTION
FROM THE ARTICLE 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q. Which is a better body moisturizer: cream, oil or lotion?
A: The best way to treat dry skin is to seal in moisture by forming a protective layer over it, says Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, co-director of laser surgery at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery. In order of effectiveness: oils, creams and lotions. The difference is the oil-to-water ratio, Tanzi says: Creams have more oil than water, and lotions have less.
Keep reading: When does a skincare product expire?
MY THOUGHTS
So, I suppose (using deductive reasoning) if you have oily skin but still needs to moisturize you reverse the process? Just thinking aloud!
FROM THE ARTICLE 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q. Which is a better body moisturizer: cream, oil or lotion?
A: The best way to treat dry skin is to seal in moisture by forming a protective layer over it, says Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, co-director of laser surgery at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery. In order of effectiveness: oils, creams and lotions. The difference is the oil-to-water ratio, Tanzi says: Creams have more oil than water, and lotions have less.
Keep reading: When does a skincare product expire?
MY THOUGHTS
So, I suppose (using deductive reasoning) if you have oily skin but still needs to moisturize you reverse the process? Just thinking aloud!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
WHEN TO START USING ANTI-AGING PRODUCTS
WHEN TO START USING ANTI-AGING PRODUCTS
from the artcle 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q. I'm 26. When should I start using anti-aging products?
A: The day before yesterday (and I wish I'd followed my own advice). Leslie Baumann, MD, director of the Baumann Cosmetic and Research Institute in Miami Beach and author of The Skin Type Solution, says she tells patients as young as 18 to use ingredients that have been shown to slow the effects of aging. When it comes to wrinkles, prevention is key, so it's important to conserve collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin, all of which keep skin looking plump and firm. Retinoids and antioxidants help preserve all three. For nighttime, Baumann suggests using a prescription retinoid product like Retin-A, Tazorac, Differin or Renova—in conjunction with a daily moisturizer containing antioxidants like idebenone, coenzyme Q10, lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid. She points out that the best anti-aging product is sunscreen, used every day, even indoors (where UVA rays can work their bad chemistry through windows).
Bottom line: If you're old enough to ask the question, you're old enough to be using anti-aging products.
Keep reading: Get Val's skincare regimen
MY THOUGHTS
Chances are...you're way past 18. And you're reading this because your age has started to show. I agree that there should be some amount of care so you're skin will not look as old as you are. But I prefer to look my age rather than having a face as smooth as when I was born- while the other parts of my body look like...prunes!
from the artcle 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q. I'm 26. When should I start using anti-aging products?
A: The day before yesterday (and I wish I'd followed my own advice). Leslie Baumann, MD, director of the Baumann Cosmetic and Research Institute in Miami Beach and author of The Skin Type Solution, says she tells patients as young as 18 to use ingredients that have been shown to slow the effects of aging. When it comes to wrinkles, prevention is key, so it's important to conserve collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin, all of which keep skin looking plump and firm. Retinoids and antioxidants help preserve all three. For nighttime, Baumann suggests using a prescription retinoid product like Retin-A, Tazorac, Differin or Renova—in conjunction with a daily moisturizer containing antioxidants like idebenone, coenzyme Q10, lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid. She points out that the best anti-aging product is sunscreen, used every day, even indoors (where UVA rays can work their bad chemistry through windows).
Bottom line: If you're old enough to ask the question, you're old enough to be using anti-aging products.
Keep reading: Get Val's skincare regimen
MY THOUGHTS
Chances are...you're way past 18. And you're reading this because your age has started to show. I agree that there should be some amount of care so you're skin will not look as old as you are. But I prefer to look my age rather than having a face as smooth as when I was born- while the other parts of my body look like...prunes!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
EXPENSIVE SKINCARE
EXPENSIVE SKINCARE PRODUCTS
from the article Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q: Do more-expensive skincare products have some kind of "professional strength"?
A: Price alone has nothing to do with the strength and effectiveness of skincare products, says Cheryl Burgess, MD, medical director at the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, D.C. A drugstore mask or moisturizer can have the same concentrations of active ingredients as one from a department store or spa. But there is a correlation between the strength of a product and whether it's prescription or over-the-counter, says Burgess. A prescription product will likely contain a higher concentration of active ingredients than an OTC formula.
Bottom line: The price and strength of a product do not necessarily correlate.
MY THOUGHTS
Agree. Totally. If you can afford it, go for skincare products prescribed by an expert doctor.
from the article Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q: Do more-expensive skincare products have some kind of "professional strength"?
A: Price alone has nothing to do with the strength and effectiveness of skincare products, says Cheryl Burgess, MD, medical director at the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, D.C. A drugstore mask or moisturizer can have the same concentrations of active ingredients as one from a department store or spa. But there is a correlation between the strength of a product and whether it's prescription or over-the-counter, says Burgess. A prescription product will likely contain a higher concentration of active ingredients than an OTC formula.
Bottom line: The price and strength of a product do not necessarily correlate.
MY THOUGHTS
Agree. Totally. If you can afford it, go for skincare products prescribed by an expert doctor.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
PREVENTING STRETCH MARKS
Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | September 27, 2010
http://www.oprah.com/style/How-to-Prevent-and-Eliminate-Stretch-Marks
Q: I'm pregnant for the first time. Is there anything I can use to prevent or eliminate stretch marks?
A: We in the beauty department here at O have a special interest in this question, as one of us—congratulations, Jenny!—has recently enjoyed the magnificent, enlarging experience of a first pregnancy. (Not to mention a first baby.) Speaking of enlarging: Stretch marks—a result of the tearing of the dermis, the skin's second layer—most commonly occur during the third trimester of pregnancy, says Haideh Hirmand, MD, clinical assistant professor of surgery at Cornell-Weill Medical College/New York Presbyterian Hospital. (They can also occur during the rapid growth of puberty, with significant weight gain, or from hormonal shifts.) Some studies have suggested that topically applied vitamin E and essential oils can help prevent the marks from forming. Once they appear, several treatments with a fractional laser, which promotes collagen production and thickening of the dermis, can reduce their appearance (but not remove them).
Keep in mind: The sooner you treat stretch marks, the better the result, says Roy Geronemus, MD, clinical professor of dermatology at New York University Medical Center. So best to zap them with a pulsed dye laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) while they're still red.
MY THOUGHTS
This is not only true for pregnant women. I think obese people have stretch marks after losing a lot of weight. Better the stretch marks than the unhealthy fats.
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | September 27, 2010
http://www.oprah.com/style/How-to-Prevent-and-Eliminate-Stretch-Marks
Q: I'm pregnant for the first time. Is there anything I can use to prevent or eliminate stretch marks?
A: We in the beauty department here at O have a special interest in this question, as one of us—congratulations, Jenny!—has recently enjoyed the magnificent, enlarging experience of a first pregnancy. (Not to mention a first baby.) Speaking of enlarging: Stretch marks—a result of the tearing of the dermis, the skin's second layer—most commonly occur during the third trimester of pregnancy, says Haideh Hirmand, MD, clinical assistant professor of surgery at Cornell-Weill Medical College/New York Presbyterian Hospital. (They can also occur during the rapid growth of puberty, with significant weight gain, or from hormonal shifts.) Some studies have suggested that topically applied vitamin E and essential oils can help prevent the marks from forming. Once they appear, several treatments with a fractional laser, which promotes collagen production and thickening of the dermis, can reduce their appearance (but not remove them).
Keep in mind: The sooner you treat stretch marks, the better the result, says Roy Geronemus, MD, clinical professor of dermatology at New York University Medical Center. So best to zap them with a pulsed dye laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) while they're still red.
MY THOUGHTS
This is not only true for pregnant women. I think obese people have stretch marks after losing a lot of weight. Better the stretch marks than the unhealthy fats.
Monday, April 11, 2011
WHAT'S YOUR SKIN TYPE
WHAT'S YOUR SKIN TYPE
from the article 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q: How can I figure out my skin type?
A: It's easy. Wash your face with a cleanser designed for normal skin; rinse well, and pat dry with a soft towel. Now pick up a copy of Alan Bennett's The Uncommon Reader. It's a short, funny book, and if you're undistracted you can probably finish it in about an hour—exactly when your skin will be ready to evaluate. How does it feel? If it's tight, ashy or flaky, your complexion is dry, says Susan Taylor, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University. If you're oily only across the forehead, down the nose and on the chin, you've got combination skin; and if you need to blot your whole face with a tissue, you're oily. If your face feels irritated or slightly itchy, you likely have sensitive skin.
Bottom line: Once you've established your skin type, repeat the test four times a year, because your skin probably changes seasonally.
MY THOUGHTS
Knowing your skin type is very important. You'll need this when buying make-up and other facial care products. So, follow this tip and know exactly what your skin type is.
from the article 'Val Answers Your Top 20 Skincare Questions'
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | March 23, 2011
Q: How can I figure out my skin type?
A: It's easy. Wash your face with a cleanser designed for normal skin; rinse well, and pat dry with a soft towel. Now pick up a copy of Alan Bennett's The Uncommon Reader. It's a short, funny book, and if you're undistracted you can probably finish it in about an hour—exactly when your skin will be ready to evaluate. How does it feel? If it's tight, ashy or flaky, your complexion is dry, says Susan Taylor, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University. If you're oily only across the forehead, down the nose and on the chin, you've got combination skin; and if you need to blot your whole face with a tissue, you're oily. If your face feels irritated or slightly itchy, you likely have sensitive skin.
Bottom line: Once you've established your skin type, repeat the test four times a year, because your skin probably changes seasonally.
MY THOUGHTS
Knowing your skin type is very important. You'll need this when buying make-up and other facial care products. So, follow this tip and know exactly what your skin type is.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
EATING FOR HEALTHY BONES
EATING FOR HEALTHY BONES
from the article "Is Exercise Weakening Your Bones?"
By the Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center
Published January 24, 2011
Eating for Healthy Bones
Where can I get calcium and vitamin D? Dairy products are the primary food sources of calcium. Choose low-fat milk, yogurt, cheeses, ice cream or products made or served with these choices to fulfill your daily requirement.
Three servings of dairy products per day should give you at least 900 mg (milligrams) of calcium. Green vegetables are another source. A cup of broccoli, for example, has about 136 mg of calcium. Sunlight is an important source of vitamin D, but when the sun isn’t shining, turn to dietary sources of vitamin D.
Milk and dairy products. Many great snack and meal items contain calcium. With a little planning and know-how, you can make meals and snacks calcium-rich:
* Milk: Wouldn’t a tall, cold glass of this refreshing thirst-quencher be great right now? If you’re concerned about fat and calories, choose reduced-fat or fat-free milk. You can drink it plain or with a low- or no-fat syrup or flavoring, such as chocolate syrup, vanilla extract, hazelnut flavoring or cinnamon.
* Cheese: Again, you can choose the low- or no-fat varieties. Use all different types of cheese for sandwiches, bagels, omelets, vegetable dishes, pasta creations or as a snack by itself.
* Pudding (prepared with milk): You can purchase (or make from a mix) pudding in a variety of flavors with little or no fat, such as chocolate fudge, lemon, butterscotch, vanilla and pistachio.
* Yogurt: Add fruit. Eat it plain. Add a low- or no-fat sauce or syrup. No matter how you choose to eat this calcium-rich food, yogurt remains a quick, easy and convenient choice. It’s also available in a variety of flavors.
* Frozen yogurt (or fat-free ice cream): Everybody loves ice cream. And now, without the unnecessary fat, you can enjoy it more often. Mix yogurt, milk and fruit to create a breakfast shake. Have a cone at lunchtime or as a snack. A scoop or two after dinner can be cool and refreshing.
What are other sources of calcium? Many foods you already buy and eat may be calcium-fortified. Try calcium-fortified orange juice or cereal. Check food labels to see if some of your other favorite foods may be good sources of calcium. You also can take calcium supplements if you think you may not be getting enough from your diet.
Excerpted from “Exercise and Bone Health for Women: The Skeletal Risk of Overtraining” by the Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center, a service of the National Institutes of Health
MY THOUGHTS
i love cheese and yogurt. milk - i tolerate. but i should take this article seriously. because osteo is serious.
from the article "Is Exercise Weakening Your Bones?"
By the Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center
Published January 24, 2011
Eating for Healthy Bones
Where can I get calcium and vitamin D? Dairy products are the primary food sources of calcium. Choose low-fat milk, yogurt, cheeses, ice cream or products made or served with these choices to fulfill your daily requirement.
Three servings of dairy products per day should give you at least 900 mg (milligrams) of calcium. Green vegetables are another source. A cup of broccoli, for example, has about 136 mg of calcium. Sunlight is an important source of vitamin D, but when the sun isn’t shining, turn to dietary sources of vitamin D.
Milk and dairy products. Many great snack and meal items contain calcium. With a little planning and know-how, you can make meals and snacks calcium-rich:
* Milk: Wouldn’t a tall, cold glass of this refreshing thirst-quencher be great right now? If you’re concerned about fat and calories, choose reduced-fat or fat-free milk. You can drink it plain or with a low- or no-fat syrup or flavoring, such as chocolate syrup, vanilla extract, hazelnut flavoring or cinnamon.
* Cheese: Again, you can choose the low- or no-fat varieties. Use all different types of cheese for sandwiches, bagels, omelets, vegetable dishes, pasta creations or as a snack by itself.
* Pudding (prepared with milk): You can purchase (or make from a mix) pudding in a variety of flavors with little or no fat, such as chocolate fudge, lemon, butterscotch, vanilla and pistachio.
* Yogurt: Add fruit. Eat it plain. Add a low- or no-fat sauce or syrup. No matter how you choose to eat this calcium-rich food, yogurt remains a quick, easy and convenient choice. It’s also available in a variety of flavors.
* Frozen yogurt (or fat-free ice cream): Everybody loves ice cream. And now, without the unnecessary fat, you can enjoy it more often. Mix yogurt, milk and fruit to create a breakfast shake. Have a cone at lunchtime or as a snack. A scoop or two after dinner can be cool and refreshing.
What are other sources of calcium? Many foods you already buy and eat may be calcium-fortified. Try calcium-fortified orange juice or cereal. Check food labels to see if some of your other favorite foods may be good sources of calcium. You also can take calcium supplements if you think you may not be getting enough from your diet.
Excerpted from “Exercise and Bone Health for Women: The Skeletal Risk of Overtraining” by the Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center, a service of the National Institutes of Health
MY THOUGHTS
i love cheese and yogurt. milk - i tolerate. but i should take this article seriously. because osteo is serious.
Monday, January 31, 2011
MAKE-UP TIPS FOR SQUARE FACE
Makeup Tips for Square face
Makeup Tips for Face Shapes
becomegorgeous.com
# A square face has the same width from the edges of the forehead, across the cheeks, and from jaw to jaw, strong and broad forehead with angular jaw. However, this doesn't mean you cannot look extremely hot. The first thing you should learn is to accentuate using darker foundation at the central part of the forehead and chin, including the nose and the eye area. Contour the hairline on the temples and jaw at both corners in order to soften the corners. Use a more discreet makeup for the cheeks in order to avoid drawing the attention towards your face shape. The color of the blush should be matte and a little bit darker so you can diminish the volume of the cheeks.
MY THOUGHT
i've seen a lot of pretty square-faced gals. even without the makeup.
Makeup Tips for Face Shapes
becomegorgeous.com
# A square face has the same width from the edges of the forehead, across the cheeks, and from jaw to jaw, strong and broad forehead with angular jaw. However, this doesn't mean you cannot look extremely hot. The first thing you should learn is to accentuate using darker foundation at the central part of the forehead and chin, including the nose and the eye area. Contour the hairline on the temples and jaw at both corners in order to soften the corners. Use a more discreet makeup for the cheeks in order to avoid drawing the attention towards your face shape. The color of the blush should be matte and a little bit darker so you can diminish the volume of the cheeks.
MY THOUGHT
i've seen a lot of pretty square-faced gals. even without the makeup.
Friday, January 7, 2011
How to Prevent Lipstick Feathering
How to Prevent Lipstick Feathering
By Valerie Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | July 01, 2007
Q: What's the best way to keep my lipstick from feathering?
A: I e-mailed makeup artist Sonia Kashuk, who I'm sure has never had a feathered lip in her life, to ask her how she prevents it.
"HELLO DEAR!" she said. (She always writes her e-mails in caps and uses lots of exclamation points. If you didn't know her, you'd think she was very loud and excitable. She's just the opposite.) "I ALWAYS USE A FOUNDATION OVER THE ENTIRE LIP," she wrote. "THEN I LINE THE MOUTH WITH A NEUTRAL OR COLORLESS PENCIL."
Sonia, of course, prefers her own no-feather pencil ($8); Bourjois Transparent Lip Liner ($12) and Shu Uemura Drawing Lip Pencil ($18) are also good ones.
Bottom line: A colorless lip liner will prevent bleeding and will work with any lipstick shade.
MY THOUGHTS
useful information on cold days like this. parched lips add up to feathery lipstick. good thing i'm not a lipstick person. i rarely put lipstick on.
By Valerie Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | July 01, 2007
Q: What's the best way to keep my lipstick from feathering?
A: I e-mailed makeup artist Sonia Kashuk, who I'm sure has never had a feathered lip in her life, to ask her how she prevents it.
"HELLO DEAR!" she said. (She always writes her e-mails in caps and uses lots of exclamation points. If you didn't know her, you'd think she was very loud and excitable. She's just the opposite.) "I ALWAYS USE A FOUNDATION OVER THE ENTIRE LIP," she wrote. "THEN I LINE THE MOUTH WITH A NEUTRAL OR COLORLESS PENCIL."
Sonia, of course, prefers her own no-feather pencil ($8); Bourjois Transparent Lip Liner ($12) and Shu Uemura Drawing Lip Pencil ($18) are also good ones.
Bottom line: A colorless lip liner will prevent bleeding and will work with any lipstick shade.
MY THOUGHTS
useful information on cold days like this. parched lips add up to feathery lipstick. good thing i'm not a lipstick person. i rarely put lipstick on.
Monday, January 3, 2011
How to Get Rid of Melasma Spots
How to Get Rid of Melasma Spots
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | December 10, 2010
Q: I've never been pregnant, but I have dark splotches—Melasma, "the mask of pregnancy"—on my cheeks and upper lip. What causes this and how can I get rid of it?
A: You don't have to be pregnant to get melasma, which can be caused by hormones (often pregnancy related) or by prolonged or excessive sun exposure, says Tina Alster, MD, clinical professor of dermatology at Georgetown University Medical Center. To treat it at home, look for creams that contain kojic acid or Melaplex (Alster recommends Neocutis Perle, $95; DermaDoctor.com). Alster prefers products that don't contain skin-lightening hydroquinone (which is potentially irritating). In the doctor's office, a chemical peel can help, but be careful about laser treatments (they've been associated with pigment recurrence or worsening of the mask). The Fraxel Re:store Dual laser looks promising, because it targets surface pigment and limits inflammation; be sure the treatment is delivered by a doctor who has experience using it.
Keep in mind: One of the most critical steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting melasma is to stay out of the sun.
MY THOUGHTS
i used to have these around my lips, too. it's gone and i don't know how. maybe staying indoors a lot.
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | December 10, 2010
Q: I've never been pregnant, but I have dark splotches—Melasma, "the mask of pregnancy"—on my cheeks and upper lip. What causes this and how can I get rid of it?
A: You don't have to be pregnant to get melasma, which can be caused by hormones (often pregnancy related) or by prolonged or excessive sun exposure, says Tina Alster, MD, clinical professor of dermatology at Georgetown University Medical Center. To treat it at home, look for creams that contain kojic acid or Melaplex (Alster recommends Neocutis Perle, $95; DermaDoctor.com). Alster prefers products that don't contain skin-lightening hydroquinone (which is potentially irritating). In the doctor's office, a chemical peel can help, but be careful about laser treatments (they've been associated with pigment recurrence or worsening of the mask). The Fraxel Re:store Dual laser looks promising, because it targets surface pigment and limits inflammation; be sure the treatment is delivered by a doctor who has experience using it.
Keep in mind: One of the most critical steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting melasma is to stay out of the sun.
MY THOUGHTS
i used to have these around my lips, too. it's gone and i don't know how. maybe staying indoors a lot.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Get a New Face on Your Lunch Break
Get a New Face on Your Lunch Break
Pricey, painful facelifts are no longer the only option
Elizabeth Weiss McGolerick ON Oct 5, 2010 at 11:08AM
http://www.ivillage.com/get-new-face-your-lunch-break/5-b-287988?nlcid=sw|12-28-2010|#287989
It's Electric
Microcurrent technology -- aka, the "non-surgical facelift" -- is one of the hottest treatments in today's anti-aging industry, says Jaclyn Peresetsky, clinical esthetician and president of Skin Perfect Clinic in Worthington, OH. "Safe, painless, microcurrent facial toning machines send impulses to your face muscles, helping overly tightened muscles relax and underworked muscles regain strength," she explains. Circulation is improved, which stimulates collagen production and improves or eliminates fine lines. Just one microcurrent facial (about $110) instantly lifts, tightens, tones and firms for a more youthful appearance. "The results are permanent as long as you maintain it once a month," says Peresetsky -- it's crucial to keep up that muscle memory! However, the micro-circulation and collagen/elastin stimulation is permanent.
Swing Low No More
Your cheeks and lower jaw are sagging like a turkey's wattle, but a surgical jowl lift -- with its associated pain and swelling -- is not an attractive option, either. During a non-surgical jowl lift (about $800), a Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) filler is injected into the space in front of the jowl, restoring the jaw's youthful contour, explains Dr. Alexander Rivkin, founder of Westside Aesthetics, a non-surgical cosmetic practice located in Los Angeles. "This method doesn't require general anesthesia and relies instead on powerful numbing topical creams," he says. Patients can see the results as the virtually painless procedure occurs (usually in less than 30 minutes). "Most can go back to work immediately." The results typically last one-and-a-half to two years.
Eye Love You
Frustrated with under-eye circles? Aging causes fatty tissue loss resulting in hollowness under the lower eyelid, explains Rivkin. If you're not up for an injectable filler that would set you back a grand, consider a favorite of celebs like Blake Lively and Ginnifer Goodwin: Elizabeth Grant's The Socializer ($40 at ElizabethGrant.com). Massage in the pen -- there's one for a.m., one for p.m. -- to hydrate, cool and de-puff the eye area, while erasing dark circles. Ulva Lactuca is the key ingredient here -- a unique algae that helps improve the skin's elasticity and support fibers.
Plump Those Wrinkles
If your skin complaints include wrinkles, loss of firmness and dullness, try Vichy's LiftActiv CxP Total Serum ($41 at Vichy). An innovative formulation of Vitamin C is combined with Monosaccharide R, which enables the serum to latch onto the fibroblast receptors (the cells that produce fresh, young fibers) and deliver the treatment directly to the afflicted area of the skin for a quick boost. Micro-pigments and mother-of-pearl smooth and firm skin within one minute of application.
From Old Cheek to New Cheek
The loss of perky cheeks is one of the first signs of aging. "Only injectable fillers can re-volumize the face to a youthful appearance," explains Rivkin. "Your own cells grow around the injection 'scaffolding' and don't move from the area." Hello, apple cheeks! Though there's a small risk of bruising and mild swelling, there's no significant recovery time with non-surgical cheek enhancement (from $800 to $1,600); most people can return to work immediately.
Firm Up, Buttercup
Another safe, non-invasive under-eye treatment is Collagen Firming Eye Pads ($35 at ElizabethGrant.com). "Collagen is the natural fiber in our skin that keeps it plump, youthful and hydrated," explains Margot Grant, beauty director of Elizabeth Grant. These eye pads tone and hydrate the delicate under-eye skin, minimize bags and creases and help you look rested and refreshed.
Ions, Oxygen, H20, Oh My!
"Pollution and environmental aggression make the skin dull and tired," says Peresetsky. "The oxygen facial (between $75 to $90) helps cells breathe and accelerates the cell renewal process from the usual 28 days to just 14 days," she explains. "The result? Perfectly moisturized, revitalized skin." Or, consider an ultrasonic facial (between $95 to $115) to deep-clean pores and stimulate collagen growth.
Lose a Decade
Skindinavia's 10 Years Younger ($12.50 to $39 at Skindinavia) is a makeup-finishing spray that turns foundation into a secondary moisturizing treatment. By preventing makeup from sliding and settling into the cracks in your skin, and reducing the appearance of pores, wrinkles and age spots, it helps skin look dewy -- and several years younger.
MY THOUGHTS
i want the "eye love you" and the collagen. it's expensive to be beautiful. on the outside. good thing being beautiful from the inside will probably not cost you anything. no amount of make-up can hide what you really feel. or who you really are. and if you're ok from the inside, you would know that growing old will come. and fighting it is not only costly. it's frustrating. just don't use the mirror too much. and avoid cameras. haha
Pricey, painful facelifts are no longer the only option
Elizabeth Weiss McGolerick ON Oct 5, 2010 at 11:08AM
http://www.ivillage.com/get-new-face-your-lunch-break/5-b-287988?nlcid=sw|12-28-2010|#287989
It's Electric
Microcurrent technology -- aka, the "non-surgical facelift" -- is one of the hottest treatments in today's anti-aging industry, says Jaclyn Peresetsky, clinical esthetician and president of Skin Perfect Clinic in Worthington, OH. "Safe, painless, microcurrent facial toning machines send impulses to your face muscles, helping overly tightened muscles relax and underworked muscles regain strength," she explains. Circulation is improved, which stimulates collagen production and improves or eliminates fine lines. Just one microcurrent facial (about $110) instantly lifts, tightens, tones and firms for a more youthful appearance. "The results are permanent as long as you maintain it once a month," says Peresetsky -- it's crucial to keep up that muscle memory! However, the micro-circulation and collagen/elastin stimulation is permanent.
Swing Low No More
Your cheeks and lower jaw are sagging like a turkey's wattle, but a surgical jowl lift -- with its associated pain and swelling -- is not an attractive option, either. During a non-surgical jowl lift (about $800), a Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) filler is injected into the space in front of the jowl, restoring the jaw's youthful contour, explains Dr. Alexander Rivkin, founder of Westside Aesthetics, a non-surgical cosmetic practice located in Los Angeles. "This method doesn't require general anesthesia and relies instead on powerful numbing topical creams," he says. Patients can see the results as the virtually painless procedure occurs (usually in less than 30 minutes). "Most can go back to work immediately." The results typically last one-and-a-half to two years.
Eye Love You
Frustrated with under-eye circles? Aging causes fatty tissue loss resulting in hollowness under the lower eyelid, explains Rivkin. If you're not up for an injectable filler that would set you back a grand, consider a favorite of celebs like Blake Lively and Ginnifer Goodwin: Elizabeth Grant's The Socializer ($40 at ElizabethGrant.com). Massage in the pen -- there's one for a.m., one for p.m. -- to hydrate, cool and de-puff the eye area, while erasing dark circles. Ulva Lactuca is the key ingredient here -- a unique algae that helps improve the skin's elasticity and support fibers.
Plump Those Wrinkles
If your skin complaints include wrinkles, loss of firmness and dullness, try Vichy's LiftActiv CxP Total Serum ($41 at Vichy). An innovative formulation of Vitamin C is combined with Monosaccharide R, which enables the serum to latch onto the fibroblast receptors (the cells that produce fresh, young fibers) and deliver the treatment directly to the afflicted area of the skin for a quick boost. Micro-pigments and mother-of-pearl smooth and firm skin within one minute of application.
From Old Cheek to New Cheek
The loss of perky cheeks is one of the first signs of aging. "Only injectable fillers can re-volumize the face to a youthful appearance," explains Rivkin. "Your own cells grow around the injection 'scaffolding' and don't move from the area." Hello, apple cheeks! Though there's a small risk of bruising and mild swelling, there's no significant recovery time with non-surgical cheek enhancement (from $800 to $1,600); most people can return to work immediately.
Firm Up, Buttercup
Another safe, non-invasive under-eye treatment is Collagen Firming Eye Pads ($35 at ElizabethGrant.com). "Collagen is the natural fiber in our skin that keeps it plump, youthful and hydrated," explains Margot Grant, beauty director of Elizabeth Grant. These eye pads tone and hydrate the delicate under-eye skin, minimize bags and creases and help you look rested and refreshed.
Ions, Oxygen, H20, Oh My!
"Pollution and environmental aggression make the skin dull and tired," says Peresetsky. "The oxygen facial (between $75 to $90) helps cells breathe and accelerates the cell renewal process from the usual 28 days to just 14 days," she explains. "The result? Perfectly moisturized, revitalized skin." Or, consider an ultrasonic facial (between $95 to $115) to deep-clean pores and stimulate collagen growth.
Lose a Decade
Skindinavia's 10 Years Younger ($12.50 to $39 at Skindinavia) is a makeup-finishing spray that turns foundation into a secondary moisturizing treatment. By preventing makeup from sliding and settling into the cracks in your skin, and reducing the appearance of pores, wrinkles and age spots, it helps skin look dewy -- and several years younger.
MY THOUGHTS
i want the "eye love you" and the collagen. it's expensive to be beautiful. on the outside. good thing being beautiful from the inside will probably not cost you anything. no amount of make-up can hide what you really feel. or who you really are. and if you're ok from the inside, you would know that growing old will come. and fighting it is not only costly. it's frustrating. just don't use the mirror too much. and avoid cameras. haha
How to Treat Dry Legs
How to Treat Dry Legs
By Valerie Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | December 01, 2007
http://www.oprah.com/style/How-to-Treat-Dry-Legs
Q: What's the best way to treat my Sahara-dry legs?
A: Though your parched legs could be the result of any number of things, including too many hot showers, harsh soaps, atopic dermatitis, or, rarely, kidney disease or a thyroid condition, the most common cause is a combination of chronological and sun-induced aging, says Joshua Wieder, MD, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. As we get older, our oil glands don't function as well as they used to, and coupled with sun damage, skin becomes dehydrated (which can be exacerbated by winter weather). Avoid overcleansing, and apply a rich moisturizer after you shower while your skin is damp. The over-the-counter lotion AmLactin XL, with 12 percent lactic acid, is very effective, says Wieder. If you've tried all the above and your legs are still reptilian, see a dermatologist.
Bottom line: You know the drill. No long, hot showers or harsh soaps. And try a body lotion with alpha hydroxy acids to peel off dry skin and allow moisturizers to penetrate more deeply.
MY THOUGHTS
very timely. scaly legs turn up when weather is cold. (because of the long hto showers of course). this is the only season i bring lotion wherever i go.
By Valerie Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | December 01, 2007
http://www.oprah.com/style/How-to-Treat-Dry-Legs
Q: What's the best way to treat my Sahara-dry legs?
A: Though your parched legs could be the result of any number of things, including too many hot showers, harsh soaps, atopic dermatitis, or, rarely, kidney disease or a thyroid condition, the most common cause is a combination of chronological and sun-induced aging, says Joshua Wieder, MD, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. As we get older, our oil glands don't function as well as they used to, and coupled with sun damage, skin becomes dehydrated (which can be exacerbated by winter weather). Avoid overcleansing, and apply a rich moisturizer after you shower while your skin is damp. The over-the-counter lotion AmLactin XL, with 12 percent lactic acid, is very effective, says Wieder. If you've tried all the above and your legs are still reptilian, see a dermatologist.
Bottom line: You know the drill. No long, hot showers or harsh soaps. And try a body lotion with alpha hydroxy acids to peel off dry skin and allow moisturizers to penetrate more deeply.
MY THOUGHTS
very timely. scaly legs turn up when weather is cold. (because of the long hto showers of course). this is the only season i bring lotion wherever i go.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
How Can I Make My Lipstick Last Longer?
How Can I Make My Lipstick Last Longer?
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | September 20, 2010
http://www.oprah.com/style/How-to-Keep-Lipstick-from-Fading
Q: How can I keep my lipstick from fading? I found a shade I love, but it won't stay on.
A: I'll tell you in a second, but first I'd like to share what the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus told his wife when she complained about fading makeup: "Everything flows and nothing abides," he said dolefully. "Everything gives way and nothing stays fixed." Okay, so he wasn't really talking about makeup, but you get the point, right? Life is so much easier when you go with the (impermanent) flow.
But there is a way to make your lipstick last at least through a passionate conversation and maybe even a couple of cups of coffee. Dab a bit of foundation over the lips and lip line, which helps to fill in fine lines and gives a lipcolor something to adhere to, says makeup artist Sonia Kashuk. Next, with the side of a lip pencil rather than the point, outline your lips, says makeup artist Rebecca Restrepo. Using the side gives a softer application that's easier to blend; look for a natural or nude shade that matches the color of your lips. (Restrepo likes the Prestige waterproof lipliner, $5.50; Ulta.com.) Then apply your favorite lipstick.
Keep in mind: The glossier or sheerer the lipcolor, the more quickly it will fade...
MY THOUGHTS
i should remember this. sometimes i think i eat my lipstick. nothing stays. not even the matte ones. gotta try tonight....
By Val Monroe
O, The Oprah Magazine | September 20, 2010
http://www.oprah.com/style/How-to-Keep-Lipstick-from-Fading
Q: How can I keep my lipstick from fading? I found a shade I love, but it won't stay on.
A: I'll tell you in a second, but first I'd like to share what the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus told his wife when she complained about fading makeup: "Everything flows and nothing abides," he said dolefully. "Everything gives way and nothing stays fixed." Okay, so he wasn't really talking about makeup, but you get the point, right? Life is so much easier when you go with the (impermanent) flow.
But there is a way to make your lipstick last at least through a passionate conversation and maybe even a couple of cups of coffee. Dab a bit of foundation over the lips and lip line, which helps to fill in fine lines and gives a lipcolor something to adhere to, says makeup artist Sonia Kashuk. Next, with the side of a lip pencil rather than the point, outline your lips, says makeup artist Rebecca Restrepo. Using the side gives a softer application that's easier to blend; look for a natural or nude shade that matches the color of your lips. (Restrepo likes the Prestige waterproof lipliner, $5.50; Ulta.com.) Then apply your favorite lipstick.
Keep in mind: The glossier or sheerer the lipcolor, the more quickly it will fade...
MY THOUGHTS
i should remember this. sometimes i think i eat my lipstick. nothing stays. not even the matte ones. gotta try tonight....
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Meanigful Beauty: Inside Out
Natural Beauty, Inside and Out
By Aine McAteer
Original Content | February 26, 2010
http://www.oprah.com/food/Natural-Beauty-Recipes-Aine-McAteers-Blog
"In youth, you have the face you were born with; in adulthood, you have the face you deserve."
— Coco Chanel
I worked for several months as a live-in chef/helper for an elderly woman living in a retirement home in Chicago. I was living in New York at the time and very much into my cool, groovy fashion. One day, I went to catch the bus that took us for our weekly trip to the local mall, and as I approached one of my lovely friends—a resident in the home—all dressed up in my black shorts, knee-high boots and leather jacket, I saw the lady sitting next to my friend whisper something in my friend's ear.
Later, as I was having lunch at the mall with my friend, she told me that the lady had commented as I approached, "That girl is so disgusting in those skimpy clothes." A few minutes later, another resident of the retirement home approached me, introduced herself and said, "I just want to tell you, you're such a beautiful woman and every time I see you with your lovely style, you brighten up my day." It was one of those enlightening moments in my life where it was clearly demonstrated to me that beauty really is in the eye of the beholder.
Which mind, I thought to myself, would I want to inhabit? The woman who looked at me and saw something disgusting or the person who looked and saw beauty? I also noted the effect each comment had on me—being told I looked "disgusting" certainly dampened my spirits, but this was quickly dispelled by the comment moments later of the woman who saw and acknowledged my beauty—her comment made me feel beautiful.
Beauty is around us all the time, but do we have the eyes to perceive it?
We try to create beauty with our lotions and potions, and it's promised to us on every shelf we look at in the cosmetic department—beauty in a bottle. Yet, true beauty really is something that emanates from the inside out, and our ability to perceive beauty around us is a direct reflection of our state of mind and appreciation of where true beauty lies.
Eat Yourself Beautiful
Ancient Greeks and Egyptians believed that to be beautiful was to be in harmony with the universe. To be in harmony with the universe, we need to be in harmony with nature.
Eating foods as nature intended is a major consideration in achieving radiant health, glowing skin and shining hair. I am vain, and even though my main motivation for adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle is that I got hooked on feeling great, a big part of it is that I noticed how it made me look when I was fueling my body with healthy, nourishing foods.
My Crunchy Berry Parfait should certainly give you something to smile about. It can be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert after a light meal. It is rich in antioxidants from the berries to get your skin glowing from the inside out and essential fatty acids from the cashews—now that's my kind of medicine!
Note: Cashews have a relatively high fat content, but it's considered "good fat" because of its ratio of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (1:2:1), which scientists believe is ideal for good health. They're also high in protein, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper and manganese, all essential for overall health and glowing skin.
Slather Yourself Beautiful
Everything that you put on your body is absorbed into your blood stream through your skin, so read the labels on your skincare products as you would on your food. Many skincare products, even those sold in health food stores, are derived from petrochemicals that can dry and irritate the skin and may have other damaging side effects.
Proper skincare using natural, chemical-free products will ensure the skin will maintain its healthy natural and youthful glow. These days, there's a vast range of natural skincare products on the market, many of which are quite expensive, so if you want to save money and be naturally beautiful, it's really quite simple to make your own products, using ingredients right from your kitchen.
Here are some simple recipes and ideas to get you started.
Exfoliating Face Wash
You can use either ground almonds, fine oatmeal, ground azuki beans or bran, mixed to a paste with a little warm water. (If your skin is dry, add a few drops of olive oil.) Mix this up in a little bowl or cup. To wash your face without the strong exfoliating effect, you can put the mixture into a little piece of cotton or muslin and gently scrub your face.
Eye Treatments
•Tea bags: Tea bags soothe tired eyes and relieve puffiness around the eyes. Chamomile tea is particularly soothing. If using loose-leaf tea, you can brew it up and soak cotton wool pads in the tea, then place over the eyes.
•Cucumber: Place slices of cucumber or grated cucumber over the eyes to detoxify around the eyes and leave them bright and refreshed.
•Aloe vera gel: Apply to cotton wool pads and place on the eyes as an anti-inflammatory and to reduce puffiness.
•Flower waters: Rosewater and orange flower water are soothing, calming and anti-inflammatory. Lavender water can relieve headaches. Soak cotton wool pads and place over the eyes.
Nourishing Masks
•Avocado nourishes and hydrates the skin. It is high in vitamins and minerals, is easily absorbed by the skin and can be used on all skin types. Simply mash half an avocado and add one to two teaspoons of water. Add one teaspoon honey for dry or mature skin, or one teaspoon lemon juice for oily skin. If you want a thicker mask, you can also add one tablespoon. ground almonds.
•Banana hydrates dry, mature or wrinkly skin. Mash the banana until creamy and apply to skin. You can add one tablespoon natural yogurt and one teaspoon honey to enhance the effect, or for oily skin, add one teaspoon lemon juice. If you want a thicker mask, add one tablespoon ground oatmeal.
•Yogurt helps draw oil and bacteria out of the pores, making it ideal for oily or spotty skin. You can use just yogurt if skin is oily or add one teaspoon honey for more mature, dehydrated skin or to smooth out wrinkles. To thicken, add ground almonds or oatmeal.
•Honey is highly antibacterial, and hydrates and moisturizes the skin. It is beneficial for all skin types. Mix two tablespoons aloe vera gel with one teaspoon honey to make an excellent mask for sensitive skin, skin infections or acne.
•Coconut is an excellent conditioner for all skin types. To make a nourishing mask, mix two tablespoons coconut cream with one teaspoon honey. You can add a little warm water to get the desired consistency.
Recipes for natural toners and moisturizers
Toners
To tone the skin after cleansing or applying a mask, you can put flower water into a little spray bottle. The following make excellent natural toners:
•Rosewater has cooling, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used on all skin types, particularly dry or mature skin. It can also restore the skin's pH and relieve eczema.
•Orange flower water is more astringent than rosewater and is an excellent toner for oily skin.
•Lavender water is a wonderful remedy for all skin types. It's great to carry and spray while traveling—it can soothe sunburn and insect bites.
•Witch hazel has mild astringent and soothing properties for irritated skin. It can be mixed with rosewater for mature skin or with lavender or orange flower water. It has excellent cleansing action.
Moisturizers
Many plant oils are high in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant and can prevent damage to skin cells while slowing down the process of aging. Oils such as jojoba, avocado oil, coconut oil, wheat germ or rose hip seed oil can be used as skin moisturizers.
To make an excellent moisturizer for all skin types, combine two parts aloe vera gel with one part jojoba oil and whisk or blend until creamy. (I like to use a handheld plunge blenders.) This can be used as a face and body moisturizer, or as a cleanser. It's a good idea to make a big batch and keep a small tub in your bathroom with the rest in the fridge until ready to use. I also like to add a few drops of rose essential oil.
Remember, however much you lather and slather, there's nothing quite as engaging and beautiful as a happy, smiling face!
A smile lifts and tones your facial muscles, and when it comes from the heart, it can bring a little more sunshine into the world.
Sending you a big smile to brighten your day,
Aine
MY THOUGHTS
what i know is that no amount of make-up can hide the sadness in your eyes. at the same time, you can radiate happiness evenif your face has no cosmetics at all. it's like when two of you are so in love with each other and you wake uop next to each other in the morning (at your worst) but you see each other as the most beautiful creatures in the world. beauty from inside. nothing can beat that.
By Aine McAteer
Original Content | February 26, 2010
http://www.oprah.com/food/Natural-Beauty-Recipes-Aine-McAteers-Blog
"In youth, you have the face you were born with; in adulthood, you have the face you deserve."
— Coco Chanel
I worked for several months as a live-in chef/helper for an elderly woman living in a retirement home in Chicago. I was living in New York at the time and very much into my cool, groovy fashion. One day, I went to catch the bus that took us for our weekly trip to the local mall, and as I approached one of my lovely friends—a resident in the home—all dressed up in my black shorts, knee-high boots and leather jacket, I saw the lady sitting next to my friend whisper something in my friend's ear.
Later, as I was having lunch at the mall with my friend, she told me that the lady had commented as I approached, "That girl is so disgusting in those skimpy clothes." A few minutes later, another resident of the retirement home approached me, introduced herself and said, "I just want to tell you, you're such a beautiful woman and every time I see you with your lovely style, you brighten up my day." It was one of those enlightening moments in my life where it was clearly demonstrated to me that beauty really is in the eye of the beholder.
Which mind, I thought to myself, would I want to inhabit? The woman who looked at me and saw something disgusting or the person who looked and saw beauty? I also noted the effect each comment had on me—being told I looked "disgusting" certainly dampened my spirits, but this was quickly dispelled by the comment moments later of the woman who saw and acknowledged my beauty—her comment made me feel beautiful.
Beauty is around us all the time, but do we have the eyes to perceive it?
We try to create beauty with our lotions and potions, and it's promised to us on every shelf we look at in the cosmetic department—beauty in a bottle. Yet, true beauty really is something that emanates from the inside out, and our ability to perceive beauty around us is a direct reflection of our state of mind and appreciation of where true beauty lies.
Eat Yourself Beautiful
Ancient Greeks and Egyptians believed that to be beautiful was to be in harmony with the universe. To be in harmony with the universe, we need to be in harmony with nature.
Eating foods as nature intended is a major consideration in achieving radiant health, glowing skin and shining hair. I am vain, and even though my main motivation for adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle is that I got hooked on feeling great, a big part of it is that I noticed how it made me look when I was fueling my body with healthy, nourishing foods.
My Crunchy Berry Parfait should certainly give you something to smile about. It can be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert after a light meal. It is rich in antioxidants from the berries to get your skin glowing from the inside out and essential fatty acids from the cashews—now that's my kind of medicine!
Note: Cashews have a relatively high fat content, but it's considered "good fat" because of its ratio of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (1:2:1), which scientists believe is ideal for good health. They're also high in protein, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper and manganese, all essential for overall health and glowing skin.
Slather Yourself Beautiful
Everything that you put on your body is absorbed into your blood stream through your skin, so read the labels on your skincare products as you would on your food. Many skincare products, even those sold in health food stores, are derived from petrochemicals that can dry and irritate the skin and may have other damaging side effects.
Proper skincare using natural, chemical-free products will ensure the skin will maintain its healthy natural and youthful glow. These days, there's a vast range of natural skincare products on the market, many of which are quite expensive, so if you want to save money and be naturally beautiful, it's really quite simple to make your own products, using ingredients right from your kitchen.
Here are some simple recipes and ideas to get you started.
Exfoliating Face Wash
You can use either ground almonds, fine oatmeal, ground azuki beans or bran, mixed to a paste with a little warm water. (If your skin is dry, add a few drops of olive oil.) Mix this up in a little bowl or cup. To wash your face without the strong exfoliating effect, you can put the mixture into a little piece of cotton or muslin and gently scrub your face.
Eye Treatments
•Tea bags: Tea bags soothe tired eyes and relieve puffiness around the eyes. Chamomile tea is particularly soothing. If using loose-leaf tea, you can brew it up and soak cotton wool pads in the tea, then place over the eyes.
•Cucumber: Place slices of cucumber or grated cucumber over the eyes to detoxify around the eyes and leave them bright and refreshed.
•Aloe vera gel: Apply to cotton wool pads and place on the eyes as an anti-inflammatory and to reduce puffiness.
•Flower waters: Rosewater and orange flower water are soothing, calming and anti-inflammatory. Lavender water can relieve headaches. Soak cotton wool pads and place over the eyes.
Nourishing Masks
•Avocado nourishes and hydrates the skin. It is high in vitamins and minerals, is easily absorbed by the skin and can be used on all skin types. Simply mash half an avocado and add one to two teaspoons of water. Add one teaspoon honey for dry or mature skin, or one teaspoon lemon juice for oily skin. If you want a thicker mask, you can also add one tablespoon. ground almonds.
•Banana hydrates dry, mature or wrinkly skin. Mash the banana until creamy and apply to skin. You can add one tablespoon natural yogurt and one teaspoon honey to enhance the effect, or for oily skin, add one teaspoon lemon juice. If you want a thicker mask, add one tablespoon ground oatmeal.
•Yogurt helps draw oil and bacteria out of the pores, making it ideal for oily or spotty skin. You can use just yogurt if skin is oily or add one teaspoon honey for more mature, dehydrated skin or to smooth out wrinkles. To thicken, add ground almonds or oatmeal.
•Honey is highly antibacterial, and hydrates and moisturizes the skin. It is beneficial for all skin types. Mix two tablespoons aloe vera gel with one teaspoon honey to make an excellent mask for sensitive skin, skin infections or acne.
•Coconut is an excellent conditioner for all skin types. To make a nourishing mask, mix two tablespoons coconut cream with one teaspoon honey. You can add a little warm water to get the desired consistency.
Recipes for natural toners and moisturizers
Toners
To tone the skin after cleansing or applying a mask, you can put flower water into a little spray bottle. The following make excellent natural toners:
•Rosewater has cooling, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used on all skin types, particularly dry or mature skin. It can also restore the skin's pH and relieve eczema.
•Orange flower water is more astringent than rosewater and is an excellent toner for oily skin.
•Lavender water is a wonderful remedy for all skin types. It's great to carry and spray while traveling—it can soothe sunburn and insect bites.
•Witch hazel has mild astringent and soothing properties for irritated skin. It can be mixed with rosewater for mature skin or with lavender or orange flower water. It has excellent cleansing action.
Moisturizers
Many plant oils are high in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant and can prevent damage to skin cells while slowing down the process of aging. Oils such as jojoba, avocado oil, coconut oil, wheat germ or rose hip seed oil can be used as skin moisturizers.
To make an excellent moisturizer for all skin types, combine two parts aloe vera gel with one part jojoba oil and whisk or blend until creamy. (I like to use a handheld plunge blenders.) This can be used as a face and body moisturizer, or as a cleanser. It's a good idea to make a big batch and keep a small tub in your bathroom with the rest in the fridge until ready to use. I also like to add a few drops of rose essential oil.
Remember, however much you lather and slather, there's nothing quite as engaging and beautiful as a happy, smiling face!
A smile lifts and tones your facial muscles, and when it comes from the heart, it can bring a little more sunshine into the world.
Sending you a big smile to brighten your day,
Aine
MY THOUGHTS
what i know is that no amount of make-up can hide the sadness in your eyes. at the same time, you can radiate happiness evenif your face has no cosmetics at all. it's like when two of you are so in love with each other and you wake uop next to each other in the morning (at your worst) but you see each other as the most beautiful creatures in the world. beauty from inside. nothing can beat that.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)