face Scrub

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If you are looking for a healthy and younger looking skin, you must take care of your skin regularly and pamper it whenever necessary. One such important regimen you should follow to enhance your skin's appearance is to use a facial scrub. Compared to any other part of the body, facial skin is very sensitive and is prone to number of problems like acne, dark spots, dryness etc. It is also the most exposed part which definitely requires special attention. Scrub removes the dead skin off your face and reveals a supple and fresh looking skin. Most people are under the assumption that using scrub is harmful for the skin which is not true. If you use the right scrub with proper ingredients, it always benefits your skin and is a major advantage for people who are looking for beautiful flawless skin. Let's check out the amazing benefits of using a facial scrub which contributes towards a wonderful skin.

• Scrub will help you get rid of toxins and dead skin cells, thus stimulating the growth of new skin cells which leads to fresh and younger skin tone.
• Using a facial scrub stimulates the skin which results in improved blood circulation. This leads to firm and healthy looking skin.
• If you are facing blemishes and dark spots problem, it is ideal to use the scrub regularly. This will remove the dirt on the face which reduces the skin imperfections and contributes towards flawless skin.
• For dry skin people who have flakes around nose and chin area, a scrub will help remove the crumbly layer of the skin and makes it easy for you to moisturize.
• If you are tired and exhausted after a long day's work, even your face would look weary. Facial scrub helps remove dirt, dust and grime making your skin look fresh, relaxed and beaming.

Exfoliating your face in moderation can make skin brighter and softer. Buffing away dry, dead cells on your face will reveal the fresh cells underneath, but exfoliates are definitely not for everyone. People with skin issues such as hives or sensitive skin should check with their dermatologist before considering using these types of products. Exfoliating to help maintain the youthful glow to your face. "Exfoliating helps fights against aging because it stimulates blood and lymph flow and cell turnover. As we age, cell turn over slows down and your skin can start to look dull.

There are a range of different types of exfoliators so it's sometimes overwhelming knowing which type is most suitable for yourself.

Physical cream exfoliators Cream scrubs contain micro-beads in a moisturizing cream or lotion base, and are great for people with dry skin. Just be wary when choosing with the type of beads in the creams. Some contain sharped-edged beads that can leave micro-scratches on your skin, so look for creamy exfoliators that have rounded beads instead.

Physical gel exfoliators Gel scrubs give the same results as cream scrubs but are in gel form so they are better for oily and combination skin types.

Chemical exfoliators These exfoliators use glycolic, lactic, citric, or salicylic acid to chemically remove dead cells on the surface of the skin, which is also good for people with oily skin. If you have never used a chemical exfoliator before, start using it only once or twice a week, at night—once your skin adjusts, you can increase the number of times used per week.

Cloth or pad exfoliators These gentle manual exfoliators are meant to cater to all skin types, except for people with skin issues. They can also help with acne problems, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. Like any manual scrub, always follow product instructions and be careful not to go overboard. 

Article Credit : http://www.beautylish.com/

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Grandma Beauty Tips

Image and Article Credit : http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

Remember when Grandma told you to put lotion on your elbows and knees? Or warned you not to make faces or it will get stuck? Turns out, there's some truth to the little pearls of beauty wisdom she so lovingly shared. Not only have they withstood the test of time, but they're actually pretty simple to follow.

1. Moisturizing is essential.

Why She's Right:

Dehydrated skin can lead to eczema, wrinkles, itchiness, and infection. "My grandmother and mother (and all women in my family) had the same piece of advice — moisturize your skin after baths and showers starting from birth!" says Dr. Amy McMichael, professor and chair of Wake Forest Baptist Health's department of dermatology in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. "I think this is an overlooked pearl for a lot of women, but it is a common cultural practice among African Americans and it makes a difference. Skin is a lot more supple and attractive with consistent moisturization."

2. To keep your skin young, sleep on your back.

Why She's Right:

Stomach sleeping may be comfy, but making a habit of it will give you lines. Having trouble switching positions? Dr. Adrienne Stewart, a dermatologist in Denver, recommends snoozing on silk or sateen pillowcases because they are softer and more forgiving should your face hit the pillow.

3. For heaven's sake, never drink from a straw.

Why She's Right:

Yes, sucking down that soda or iced coffee can etch creases around your mouth, confirms Dr. Mary Lupo, a dermatologist in New Orleans.

4. Vaseline is a beauty must-have.

Why She's Right:

Dr. Susan Taylor, dermatologist and founder of Rx for Brown Skin, says that her grandma suggested this medicine cabinet mainstay for dry skin, chapped lips, and cracked heels. Considered one of the ultimate multi-tasking moisturizers, we agree it's a keeper.

5. Be gentle to your skin.

Why She's Right:

Aggressive rubbing can lead to broken blood vessels on the skin or under the eyes, warns Valerie Callender, MD, Associate Professor of Dermatology at Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C. Her grammy's sound advice: "Apply moisturizer to your face twice daily with upward strokes — this technique prevents facial skin from sagging."

6. Coconut oil conditions best.

Why She's Right:

You can't open a magazine or read a beauty blog without seeing news about this It beauty product, but it's actually been used in India for years, says Dr. Kavita Mariwalla, a dermatologist in Long Island, New York. Mariwalla massages coconut oil into her and her children's scalps and hair for a healthy, soft look.

7. Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate.

Why She's Right:

Before fancy, pricey creams, or devices were even a thought, our grandmothers were experts at refreshing their skin with simple tools. "Using a nice soft textured washcloth to wash the face is a gentle method of removing scales from the skin — a light exfoliation. After cleansing, apply a light moisturizer to improve skin texture over time," says Dr. Wilma Bergfeld, dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic, and founding member of the Women's Dermatologic Society.

8. Pond's Cold Cream and Dove Beauty Bar are the bomb.

Why She's Right:

Okay, maybe she didn't exactly say "the bomb," but there's a reason these cult classics have been staples in drugstore beauty aisles for so many years. The reason is, of course, that they work! Dr. Lynne Drake, a dermatologist at Harvard's Massachusetts General Hospital, says that her 96-year-old nana had the skin of a 60-year-old because she washed off her makeup every night and used Pond's during the day. And who doesn't remember a crisp Dove Beauty Bar sitting perfectly on their grandma's porcelain soap dish? In 2015, this product continues to provide real beauty benefits.

9. Get no fewer than 8 hours of beauty sleep.

Why She's Right:

This study from the University Hospitals Case Medical Center found that sleep quality affected the quality of skin, increasing signs of aging. Since skin regenerates itself at night, lack of sleep can lead to dry, sullen, and eventually saggy skin.

10. You are what you eat.

Why She's Right:

Eating your veggies is good for your heart and skin. Green leafy vegetables are full of antioxidants that fight off free radicals from sunlight. Grandma may not have known all of those details, but she never doubted the many benefits of broccoli and beets.

11. There is nothing more beautiful than self-love.

Why She's Right:

Can't argue with that. Instead of constantly trying to change, there is a lot to be said for not merely accepting, but truly loving our bodies and natural beauty. Dr. Amy Paller, professor and chair of Northwestern University's department of dermatology shares, "I always had curly hair and just hated it growing up — straightened it all the time, always wanted it long and straight — but eventually learned that it was okay to go natural." Sound good to us!

Summer Beauty Trends

White is the new black and yes, the humble braids are here to stay! We present a round-up of the runway trends in beauty, make-up and hair that are set to take spring/summer 2015 by storm

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1. Double French manicure: How can you take a classic French manicure to the next level? It's simple, just double the impact! Seen on the spring/summer runway this year, double French manicure gives a distinctly tropical vibe. To achieve the look at home, apply a coat of glossy clear nail paint and let it dry. Next, brush a thick arc of pinkish-white paint across the top of the nail. Once it dries, draw a thinner arc of turquoise colour across the tip. Try this one for a chic spin on the traditional style!

2. Colourful & feminine hair accessories: You can hardly imagine summer without floral motifs. From uber-impressive and attention-grabbing huge floral headpieces to cute scarves and bands that look like rabbit's ears, bohemian floral accessories blossomed on the runway forming a major trend in 2015. If you don't experiment with hairstyles often, these will tempt you into it. For a beach-friendly look, style your hair with these accessories and wear a cute cover-up. Also apt for the boho-chicgirl-in-town look.

3. Golden glittery eyes: You'll to tally fall in love with this minimalist meets intergalactic eye make-up.Let your eyes be the centre of attention by applying loose glitter to three points of the eyes - the inner corners along with the top and bottom lash line. To add some more glam, line the upper eyelid with gold liner and dot the inner corners of the eye with gold eyeshadow. Retain a fresh-faced, natural look by keeping your skin and lips artfully bare (or consider applying a taupe or nude lipstick). Keep your brows well-groomed.

4. The Lob: Neither too short nor too lengthy, the Lob (Long Bob) is your definite cut of choice this summer. Fresh, youthful and flattering, women of all ages and any face shape can sport it with elan. Since its both quirky and cool, it's a great option for women tired of their long hairdo. From sexed-up waves to 70s groupie bangs, Hollywood stars are wearing the Lob in smoking-hot ways. Take inspiration form Cameron Diaz, Karlie Kloss, Alexa Chung and Amy Adams.

5. Star tattoos: Not willing to say `yes' to permanent tattoos? Join the temporary tat too bandwagon with bombshells Alessandra Ambrosia, Vanessa Hudgens, and Beyonce who are rocking this trend. Tommy Hilfiger models wore star tattoos in green, grey, black and burgundy on their face, arms, tummy and other parts of the body for a fun and flirty look. These playful tattoos are music fest-chic. If you want to try it at home, make your job easier by creating starshaped stencils and fill them whenever you wish to get inked.

6. Herringbone braids: The humble plait is here to stay! The fad this year is the intricate Herringone Braid. Play with contrasting textures by pairing wet, slicked back hair with a big deconstructed fishtail braid.Comb gel from the roots to the back of the crown and clip the hair in place. Divide it into three sections and cross them over and underneath one an other. Finish by pulling the braid apart with your fingers and spraying your favourite hair product for gloss. Braided buns and woven ponytails are other exciting options for the summer season. So, get high on plaitspiration, ladies!

7. Purple eyeshadow: Think of this one as your new smokey-eye effect. A gorgeous blend of mauve and lavender, this flattering hue will make fair, dusky as well as pale complexions pop.To achieve the apt effect, remember to keep the colour minimal; it shouldn't look aggressive.Line the upper lashes with dark brown eyeliner. Dab some pinky-violet lipstick on the lids and brush metallic brown shadow on top. Finish with a coat of deep purple mascara. Keep the foundation light and the rest of the face bare. Don't apply make-up under the eyes.

8. Sleek ponytails with hair loops: Hurrah for this couture ponytail! Turn the basic ponytail into something cool, and unlike anything you may have seen before with these functional plastic hair loops or links. Work a thickening mousse through the hair for volume, tuck the bottom section up under the top and mould the hair into an egg-like shape at the back of the crown. Now, make a loop through which you can pass the ring. Then, loop a thick hair extension around the second ring for a polished, modern, futuristic-looking ponytail.

9. Bold, Graphic eyeliner: "This season try out the most outstanding cat eye look ever with bold and expressive colours like bright orange, pink and white," suggests beauty and make-up expert Akriti Kochar.For an off-beat look, apply falsies to the top and bottom along with lots of lengthening mascara for 60s-inspired eyes. Pick a white eyeliner and wing the inner and outer corners out slightly with a few smaller strokes on each side. White is the new black! And for bright a neon effect, opt for a bright orange lipstick and use your fingers to apply it as blush.

10. The off-centre parting: In tune with the season's trend for `real' or `natural beauty', wear a parting that is neither neat at one side nor precise in the centre. It will frame your face making it appear longer, thinner. Centre parting also helps define cheekbones and elongates facial features. For a flawless parting, be sure to create it while you your hair is wet so that your strands dry in place.

Article Credit : http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/

Stretch Marks

Can You Really Make Stretch Marks Disappear?

Original Source : Mona Gohara, M.D / http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

Image Credit :  http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

Thanks to rapid weight changes or growth, your collagen and elastin (the stuff that keeps your skin taut) can weaken. And you know what that means — stretch marks or as they're known in the medical world, viola striae, will appear.

Most of us will get them; at least 70% of pregnant women do. So is there a way to really make them magically disappear? Unfortunately, no. But that doesn't mean you can't make them look less unsightly. Here's how:

1. Slather on fading creams.

Some form of Retin-A is usually the best choice. "Topical retinoids promote collagen production which may, over time, improve the texture and appearance of stretch marks," says Ginette Okoye MD, assistant professor of dermatology at Johns Hopkins Medical Center. The downside? Retinoids can be irritating, and it may be months before you notice a small difference. And if you swear by cocoa butter to keep stretch marks at bay, unfortunately there's no science to support that it really works.

2. Try laser treatments.

Dr. Tina Alster, director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, recommends one to two micro-needling or Fraxel laser treatments for substantial improvement. If your marks are still pretty noticeable, there's also a laser treatment that can remove the reddish color, says Alster. Just consult with your doctor first to figure out which one would work best for you.

3. Consider camouflaging them.

If creams and lasers aren't your thing, but those lines are making you pretty self conscious, try using body makeup to even out your complexion. Dermablend is a good choice — not only is it waterproof (you can even wear it while swimming!), but it also comes in a multitude of shades for a variety of skin tones.

4. Wear them proudly.

If you have them, you might as well own them. Created by two moms, the #Loveyourlines Instagram account is devoted to "celebrating real women, real bodies, and real self-love." And with over 100K followers, there must be something to embracing all your imperfections. So take a pic and share your marks with the world.

Coconut Oil

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Coconut oil is very popular and frequently preferred as hair oil worldwide. Before you start using this oil for its many beneficial, functions, perhaps you should find out what makes it so special, and why millions of people choose to use it.

Many people living in coastal areas of the world, more specifically in the areas where coconuts grow in abundance, know that the the sweet smelling coconut oil is their one and only hair oil. These are areas like the Indian Subcontinent, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Burma, Philippines, and parts of the Caribbean.

Coconut oil is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals which are good for the human body. However, coconut oil is not limited to hair; it is used in the preparation of cosmetic soaps and creams, and in Asian countries, it is also used for preparing various kinds of food and salads.

Coconut oil has been in use as hair oil for thousands of years, and it has shown remarkable results. Certain components in it keep the hair strong, nourished and protected from the effects of premature aging, like baldness and excessive hair loss. Let’s see what some of those benefits to hair are, and what components of coconut oil are responsible!

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair

Hair Loss: Coconut oil has been used since ancient times in India for grooming hair. Various remedies were prepared using herbs and coconut oil to prevent hair loss. One such remedy can be prepared in modern times by boiling sage leaves in coconut oil. This mixture can be applied to the scalp for the improvement of healthy hair, and its use will also prevent hair loss.

Coconut-and-Coconut-OilApplying a mixture of lime water and coconut oil can also provide relief from hair loss, as does the mixture of coconut oil and gooseberries. Boil the gooseberries in coconut oil and then apply it on the hair.

Hair Damage: The use of coconut oil on hair helps to reduce protein loss in both damaged as well as undamaged hair. Coconut oil rich in lauric acid, has a high affinity for hair protein, and easily penetrates inside the hair shaft, which is due to its low molecular weight. It can be used for pre-wash or post-wash hair grooming.

Cooling Properties: The application of coconut oil on the head and scalp also has a cooling effect. It can cool and soothe people with hot heads, or those who suffer from severe scalp sweating.

Moisture Retention: Coconut oil has a high moisture retaining capacity, since it is not easily broken down nor evaporated, being very stable. It does not let moisture escape, thus keeping hair moist and soft, which prevents breakage of hair.

Hair Conditioning: Coconut oil is a better conditioner for hair than any synthetic one available in the market. Use of warm coconut oil helps in keeping hair shimmering and soft. Apply some warm oil at night and wash your hair the next morning. This can be repeated every few days for healthy, strong and conditioned hair.

Anti-Dandruff: The various fatty acids present in coconut oil serve as very good anti-dandruff agents and are far better than any anti-dandruff shampoo. Regular application of coconut oil can help you get rid of dandruff forever. Coconut oil mixed with lukewarm water and castor oil can also be effective in treating dandruff. Massage the scalp and hair with this mixture for ideal results.

Another home remedy for dandruff can be prepared by mixing coconut oil with sesame oil. Apply this mixture for about 30 minutes and then shampoo the hair.

Styling: Coconut oil can be a good styling oil for hair as well, as it melts on heating and then condenses when cooled. Therefore, when you apply it on your hair, it thins and spreads evenly due to the heat of the scalp. Soon afterwards, as the hair comes in contact with air, the oil on the hair condenses, thus working as a styling gel or cream.

Lice Protection: Lice are a very common pest found in the hair and can cause embarrassment for anyone. They also have a tendency to come back again and again. There are many chemical products available for the treatment of lice, but unfortunately, they can also damage the scalp and hair due to their strong chemical components. Combing wet hair with a fine comb is a good remedy for getting rid of lice but this may also damage the wet hair. However, if one coats the wet hair with coconut oil, it becomes much easier to comb and subsequently remove the lice.

Hair Care for Dry Hair: For people with dry hair that is rough and thin, taking good care of your hair is a big concern. However, using strong hair care products for cleansing, toning and conditioning may lead to a dry and flaky scalp. Coconut oil can be effective in taking care of this sort of dry hair.

Hair Toning: Coconut oil also helps in the toning of hair, especially dry hair. Apply a warm mixture of coconut oil and lavender essential oil on scalp at night, then wash and rinse your hair the next morning. You may repeat this as frequently as you want until you see your desired results.

Hair Conditioning:  Hair conditioner can be easily prepared at home using coconut oil. It is not only effective; it also does not have side effects.  Mix some henna with coconut oil and warm milk to make a paste. Apply this to the hair for 20 minutes and then rinse hair properly. This hair conditioner is very effective, particularly for dry hair.

Boils: Some people experience the condition of boils on the scalp, especially during the winter. This may also happen if exposed to heat or sun for a long duration. It is important to keep both the hair and scalp clean, and occasional massaging of the hair with a mixture of coconut oil and olive oil may provide relief from the uncomfortable and unsightly problem of boils. However, if the problem persists, it is advisable to contact your health care specialist.

Split Ends: If you have a lot of split ends in your hair, it is generally advised to cut them, but in case this problem appears on a small number of your hair strands, then you can use simple home remedies to solve the problem. Massage your hair with a mixture of coconut oil and almond oil for a few minutes; this will help in minimizing the split ends and joining them back together.

Gray Hair and Baldness: Coconut oil is also beneficial for preventing baldness and gray hair. Try mixing Bhringraj or Eclipta Alba leaf juice into coconut oil and apply this on the scalp and hair.

Coconut oil is widely available in the market. Many people choose an odorless variety, use it for any and all hair conditions, and reap all the benefits of a healthy head of hair!

Coconut Oil in Shampoo

You may not be aware of this, but your shampoo likely contains coconut oil, at least in small amounts. Lately, people have come to understand how important natural oils are for hair nourishment. Oddly enough, over the past three decades or so, using oil on hair was viewed as a sign of backwardness or ignorance. The majority of people believed that, particularly in India.

The most popular look was wind-blown, fluffy light hair, resulting from indiscriminate use of oil-less, caustic and chemical-based shampoos. Very soon, however, those who oiled their hair continued to do so, while the other group had no hair left to shampoo. The excessive use of shampoo often results in drying up and breaking away of hair and total devastation of the health of the scalp.

That is when oils began to make their way into the shampoos and manufacturers began widely using coconut oil in shampoo. The major manufacturers learned a lesson from the old men and women with natural, strong jet-black hair living in coastal areas of India and neighboring countries who had been using coconut oil on their hair since childhood. Their unbelievably healthy hair was due to the coastal climate and the cultural traditions that placed pure coconut oil as an important part of their health regimen.

Commercially, using coconut oil in shampoos showed marvelous results and it was soon a widely accepted additive or pure form of hair care products.

Healthy Hair: With the various benefits such as hair nourishment, anti-aging properties, moisture retention, and vitamin E supplementation, coconut oil in shampoo is one of the best things to aid in the health of your hair.

The Oily Factor: Detergent or soap-based shampoos leave your hair dry, rough, hard and bleached. That is why you occasionally find that your comb does not go smoothly through your hair after you shampooed it. The oil in shampoo counters this effect. In coconut oil, that component comes from natural saturated fats, and they keep the hair smooth and shiny.

Fragrance: Coconut Oil adds a sweet and refreshing scent to the shampoos as an added bonus.

Article Credit : www.organicfacts.net

Shaving

The Biggest Mistakes You Make Shaving Your Legs

1. Shaving your legs as soon as you hop into the shower.

Understandably, you want to get your morning routine underway, but experts advise hanging out in the shower or bath for about 15 minutes before you start shaving -- this will soften the hair and open up follicles. Any longer, though, and your skin will wrinkle and swell, making it harder to score a close shave.

2. Doing it first thing in the morning.

Shaving at night will leave your legs smoother. As you sleep, your legs swell slightly, which can make hair retreat back into its follicles.

3. Not using anything to lather up (or worse, using bar soap).

No matter how in a hurry you may be, skip the temptation to shave "dry." Lather up your legs with a moisturizing shaving cream to make sure the razor glides easily over your skin, and you'll avoid nicks and cuts. In a pinch, hair conditioner will do just as good a job. But skip the bar soap: "It doesn't create enough lubrication for a razor to slide easily against your skin, which can up the odds of cuts," dermatologist Ellen Gendler, M.D., told Good Housekeeping.

4. Using those single-blade disposable razors.

This is fine once in awhile, like if you're staying in a hotel, but for every-day use it's best to invest in a four- or five-blade razor. They provide the smoothest results, letting you navigate tricky areas like your knees and ankles. "Single-blade disposables are likelier to drag against the skin," says cosmetic dermatologist Neal Schultz, M.D.

5. Not replacing your razor blade often enough.

You may have bought yourself a nice razor, but it won't do you any good if you don't change your blade at the first sign of dullness (usually, about five to 10 shaves). Old blades are not only ineffective, but more likely to cause bumps and redness and trap bacteria, which can potentially cause infections.

6. Shaving up the leg before you shave down the leg.

On your first pass, only shave in the direction your hair grows (down the leg), and if you have very sensitive skin, don't shave upward at all. While going "against the grain" may get you a closer shave, it also increases the possibility of irritation, nicks, and cuts. Once your hairs are already very short, and the skin is warm and lubricated, going against the direction of hair growth is much safer. "If you'd still like a closer shave, reapply the gel and shave again -- against the direction of the hair growth," says Dr. Schultz.

7. Not preventing or treating razor burn.

Close shaving can result in ingrown hairs, and untreated razor burn can turn into long-term scars. To help prevent those annoying red bumps in the first place, use an exfoliating body scrub twice a week to shed the skin that's trapping hairs. To treat bumps, put a warm compress on the affected area -- the heat will relax the hair. After showering, apply lotion to soften the hair, leaving your skin less prone to infections.

8. Shaving with your guy's razor.

A lot of women think using a men's razor is more effective, so we tested the market leaders. The three-blade Gillette Mach3 disposable finished in last place, while the refillable three-blade Gillette Mach3 Turbo did just as well as the top women's razors.

Image and Article Credit: http://shine.yahoo.com/shine-beauty/biggest-mistakes-39-shaving-legs-163000035.html