Hair Extensions

Hair extensions started being used in the 1980s, but because of poor results and high expense, were abandoned until about 5 years ago. Their popularity has been boosted by all the celebrities who now use them.

What are hair extensions? Hair extensions are hairpieces that can be attached to your natural hair or scalp; they enhance the thickness of your hair or the length. There are several kinds, but the most popular ones are
?Strands, small clusters of about 30 pieces of hair
?Wefts, slightly larger curtains of hair, joined at the top and free flowing at the ends. The best wefts are hand-made, not machine-made.
?Braids and dreadlocks, which are pre-wound.

Some are synthetic and some are made of human hair. The natural hair of Caucasians is different from that of Asians or Afro-Caribbeans and you should choose an extension that will match your own hair.

They come in many varieties and can be pre-colored, pre-highlighted or pre-permed with curls or a body wave. Depending on how it was attached, you may need to have your hair extension re-done after 6 or 8 weeks, or it might last up to 4 months. Re-attaching will always be periodically necessary because our natural hair continues to grow, the bonding agent becomes loose, life happens, and you?ll need to re-adjust and refresh your hair?s appearance.

How are hair extensions attached?
?Strands are woven, glued, or clipped to your natural hair. If they?re clipped, you can take them off easily any time. If they?re glued, various bonding agents may be used and care must be taken to protect your scalp and natural hair.
?For wefts, your stylist will make a small corn row or weave in your natural hair, and sew the weft to this weave. This method uses no chemicals.
?Braids are usually woven in with your own hair and again no chemicals are used.

What kind of hair extension would best suit me? That?s a very personal matter and should be decided between you and your stylist. There are extensions for every kind of hair, even thin and baby-fine hair. Your stylist will assess your hair type, discuss how you would like to look and whether it?s possible given your particular circumstances and hair status, and explain alternatives. When an extension is decided upon, she will personally customize it to match your hair, will attach it, explain how she?s doing it, and give you information on how to care for it.

How do I care for my hair extension?
?Hair extensions can be shampooed, styled and brushed the same as your natural hair, but don?t try to alter their color. This should be professionally done.
?The most important thing is to be gentle with it so as to preserve the bond attaching it.
?Use a soft bristle brush and brush out tangles from the bottom ends up towards your head.
?At night, to avoid matting, tie it up or braid it if it?s fairly long, and never sleep with wet or damp hair.
?Avoid using any silicone-based products or conditioners on the extension where it is bonded to your natural hair, as this will make the extension slip off.

Does it hurt to get a hair extension? No, not when it?s properly done. In the first day or two it will feel a little heavy perhaps, and this added weight on your head may feel slightly uncomfortable until you get used to it. The process of attaching it should not hurt at all. If it does, something isn?t right. Sometimes if the cornrow method is being used, the weaving might be done too tightly, pulling too hard on your scalp. This can even cause headaches. But you should not accept this. The weaving doesn?t have to be so tight that it?s painful.

You may come across stories of how a person?s hair was broken, burned, or otherwise damaged by their hair extension. The odds are that this person had it done by an untrained stylist, or one with little experience.

Do your homework

Since the demand for hair extensions is growing, more varieties will become available and research will give us more methods of creating and using them. The hair styling industry is not regulated, so do some checking and reading. Many websites recount personal experiences and have Frequently Asked Question pages.

Choose a stylist with training specifically in hair extensions, and with plenty of experience using them. Ask to speak to other clients who have purchased hair extensions, to hear what their experiences were like.

Please click here for more information regarding hair extensions and other salon treatments in the Sacramento, California area

Tips for Beautiful Makeup

Beautiful makeup tips are useful to know what you should do to make the makeup work to its fullest capacity, for, makeup done unprofessionally and without any thought would not be able to give you the desired results. Before applying the makeup that you hope would create a magical aura around you, consider these following tips for beautiful makeup:

Beautiful Makeup Tip 1

It is better to use toner on your face first. Use of a good moisturizer is also a good option, as this helps in proper and better blending of foundation. This is where most of people do not put proper care and end up in a mess of things, as the foundation does not give desired results!

Beautiful Makeup Tip 2

Use your fingers for working the foundation on one area of your face. It is better if you are moving your fingers in circular motion, and after you have finished this finger-walk, you can use sponge for the final working of the foundation.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 3

It is advisable to use a translucent loose powder to set the makeup with the help of a soft brush. When you are using the brush, dust the makeup in downward motion.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 4

If you are using blusher for your makeup, care needs to be taken in its application, for, it is better to apply in circular motion with fingers along the bottom of cheekbones. Mind you, application of blusher over the line that would pass from the center of your eyes is always prohibited!

Beautiful Makeup Tip 5

If you want to provide more natural look, you can fend the brush after you have loaded it with the blusher to remove the extra blusher.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 6

It is better to opt for a colorless eye shadow as a base. Darker colors need to be applied on outer side of eye shapes, and if you have already used more than required, you can use translucent or colorless coating over the already made.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 7

Sometimes, people get carried away with the colors of their clothes and try to match the color of makeup with it. Mind you, this may not look beautiful, so, it is better to opt for colors that actually suit your complexion. Using mild colors can lend a rare beauty to your face.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 8

If you are using eyeliner to make your eyes attractive and talking, it should be applied close to base of eyelashes, so that it can make them look thicker.

If you follow these tips for your makeup, the possibility of finest outcome for your face is more and you will enjoy the place for which you have intended the makeup!

Tony Smith

For more Makeup Tips vist http://www.makeup-guide-plus.info

Aloe Vera And Acne Is There A Relationship?

Aloe vera has some important medicinal qualities that are very effective in the treatment of acne. Aloe Vera has been used in a wide variety of medicinal ways both historically and in modern time. It is used to treat burns, wounds and infections to regenerate skin and provide the building blocks needed to rebuild scarred or damaged skin areas. In addition it aids in treating acne by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and an immune booster.

Aloe Vera Solutions

Acne can be treated by either soaps containing aloe vera or aloe vera gel. Soaps should be used at least twice a day and the skin should be patted dry following the wash. A topical gel or cream application of aloe vera can then be applied to the inflamed or infected areas. Acne is not cured by aloe vera but the symptoms of redness, flaky skin, and swelling will be rapidly decreased with consistent use.

Aloe vera, in liquid form, can be applied to the facial area to remove excess oil. The face should then be washed with a soap containing aloe vera and then a commercially prepared aloe vera cream can be applied. This treatment uses all the medicinal components of the aloe vera to help keep skin looking soft and breakout free. The mild astringent qualities of the allow vera will prevent future acne outbreaks and help reduce redness and swelling.

Medical Findings

As far back as 1750 B.C clay tablets were written addressing the medicinal properties of aloe vera. A Greek physician wrote in 74 B.C about using aloe vera to cure infections of the skin, burns and to decrease hair loss.

In 1935 the first medical report was published describing the medical use of aloe vera in burn patients. It has since been the focus of many studies addressing the healing properties of aloe vera for all skin conditions, including acne. As with all herbal and medical treatments individual responses will vary with most users indicating a decrease in the redness and flaky skin around the acne blemishes.

There are no known side effects to using aloe vera externally. If any irritation occurs simply discontinue use.

Mike Singh is the publisher of http://www.stopping-acne-now.com/ On his website, he provides articles about the best acne medication and fast removal of acne scars.

Face Transplant: Ready for a Truly Extreme Makeover?

As in the 1999 movie ?Faceoff,? face transplants have been the fodder of science fiction. Until now. Dr. Maria Siemionow of the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, is now interviewing five men and seven women to the chance to have the first-ever face transplant. Dr. Siemionow has assembled a team of experts and has performed such surgical procedures on animals and scores of cadavers. For people desperate enough to pay the price, the prospect of changing a face disfigured by burns or other accidents for a better one may soon be realized. Critics point to the possibility that the body will reject the transplanted face, causing it to slough off in a few days, leaving the patient worse off then before the operation.

To one degree or another, we are all concerned with self-image and self-esteem. We all want to look our best, to have an appearance that at least does not prompt shocked stares or looks of disgust. Until now, our choices have been rather limited. Lose some weight. Trim your beard. Comb your hair, at least once in a while. We can easily become obsessed with the way we look, focusing on our perceived imperfections so much that we never climb out of the pit of feeling self-conscious around others.

Fact is, the clich?, ?No one is perfect,? applies to physical appearance just as much as to other aspects of life. Accepting who we are is a big first step in moving toward maturity. It frees us to turn our attention away from ourselves so that we can focus on other people.

Christians find the basis of self-acceptance in verses like this: ?The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me? (Galatians 2:20). To accept me, He set no prerequisites beyond my need for Him. I certainly didn't have to pass a standard of physical beauty.

On the flip side, if we can communicate to others how our acceptance of them is not dependent on their appearance, we can contribute a great deal to their self esteem. Jesus explained the principle in this simple, Golden Rule: ?Treat others the way you want to be treated? (Matthew 7:12). Treat them, in other words, the way He treats you. His acceptance necessarily demands a mirrored response to be accepting of others.

One thing we can easily do that works in both directions--bringing out the best in you, and communicating your acceptance of other people--make a habit of smiling! It?s easy, there?s little risk, and it?s got to be a lot cheaper than the Sieminonow Procedure. But for some of us, it would be a really radical, extreme makeover.

* * *

Copyright ?2006 Steve Singleton

Steve Singleton has written and edited several books and numerous articles. He has been an editor, reporter, and public relations consultant. He has taught college-level Greek, Bible, and religious studies courses and has taught seminars in 11 states and the Caribbean.

Go to his DeeperStudy.com for Bible study resources, no matter what your level of expertise. Explore The Shallows, plumb The Depths, or use the well-organized Study Links for original sources in English translation. Check out the DeeperStudy Bookstore for great e-books, free books, and great discounts. Subscribe to his free DeeperStudy Newsletter or DeeperStudy Blog.

Cosmetic Surgery And Reconstructive Surgery What Are The Differences?

Plastic surgery includes two broad fields, namely cosmetic (or aesthetic) and reconstructive surgery. Cosmetic surgery is performed to enhance the appearance of a person, who finds his/her body parts, though otherwise fully functional, to be unattractive. Thus cosmetic surgery is performed with a purely aesthetic intent. On the other hand, reconstructive surgery focuses on concealing the destructive effects of trauma, disease or accident. That is, it strives to improve function and impart a standard look so the patient may lead a normal life.

Reconstructive surgery is a way of veiling defects by using skin implants and tissue flaps. Either local tissue is used or tissue is transferred from another part to the problem area. Reconstructive tissue flaps comprise of skin, muscle, fat, bone or a combination of these elements. The most common reconstructive surgery is to cover the defects of burn survivors and other accident victims.

Another common reconstructive surgery is breast reconstruction for women who have had mastectomy ? surgical removal of one or both breasts, either partially or completely. Mastectomy is performed to combat breast cancer, or to circumvent the disease if a woman is at a high risk of acquiring it. Rhinoplasty may also be considered as a reconstructive procedure if the extent of damage to the nose cartilage and bone is rather grave. In such a case, tissue is moved from another body part and grafted in the damaged area.

One of the most prevalent uses of reconstructive surgery can be found in the field of professional contact sports. Players are likely to suffer injuries during vigorous contact sports, and such injuries can only be treated by reconstructive surgery. Though rare, sexual reassignment surgery is another example of reconstructive surgery. There is a certain gray area between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and distinguishing one from another can be confusing at times. But in a gist, reconstructive surgery is usually performed to correct an abnormality, and not to enhance an otherwise normal appearance.

Nicola publishes an informational site about eyelid surgery, with articles and news, tips and views to help you make the correct choice about Eyelid Surgery and Blepharoplasty at http://eyelid.plastic-surgery-info.net

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. All rights reserved. Copyright Plastic-Surgery-Info.net

Searching for Permanent Laser Hair Removal

Shaving daily or several times per week can be a tedious and even painful task, and is not a permanent way to get rid of unwanted body hair. Waxing can be more painful, expensive, and though the hair grows back more slowly, is not a long-term solution for hair removal. That is why many people looking for a permanent or long-term way to remove unwanted body hair are looking to laser hair removal. Those who perform this procedure promise to quickly remove your hair at the root, and guarantee that your hair will grow back very slowly, and in some cases, result in permanent hair removal. However, if you are looking to laser hair removal as a permanent solution to your unwanted body hair, it is important that you know all aspects of the procedure, along with knowing how what to look for in a reputable practitioner to carry out the procedure for you.

Laser hair removal works by aiming a series of light beams at the dark pigments in your body hair. Using a handheld machine, the technician or physician presses it onto the areas of the skin where you want hair removed. The device is intended to cause damage to you hair follicles without harming any surrounding tissue. There can be pain involved, despite some claims to the contrary. But respectable laser hair removal practitioners will employ several pain relief methods including cooling with gels, fine mists of water, and cool air.

Of course, there are quite a few plusses to having a laser hair removal procedure. Foremost is the long-term removal of your unwanted body hair. Though laser hair removal is not considered a permanent solution, the permanent reduction in appearance of your hair is entirely possible. Often, your regrowth actually comes back a lighter color and softer texture, which is a much more appealing alternative. Laser hair removal is a safe procedure as long as it is performed correctly and carefully. Laser hair removal is most ideal for those who have a large area on the body with more hair on it than the average person, such as the back, chest, or legs. For these people, laser hair removal might be a preferable option to something even less permanent like waxing. Those people with fairer complexions along with darker body hair usually get the optimum results with this procedure.

Of course, the idea of permanent laser hair removal might be too good to be true. There are several drawbacks to the procedure that you should be aware of before deciding to go through with it. There has been no durable evidence that suggests laser hair removal is completely safe and is completely effective in what it claims to do. And, because every body is different, it is difficult to establish a set standard of regrowth rates. What is known is that the procedure does not work as well on gray, red, or blonde hair, and it must be approached with caution by those people with darker skin tones or on people who tan themselves. There is also a risk of burns, abrasions, or skin discoloration as a result of the procedure. And because it can take several sessions to complete the desired effect, the procedure can be quite expensive. Some people do not react to the process, therefore the decision to receive laser hair removal is one that requires great consideration of the factors involved.

There are many laser hair removal establishments in operation that make untrue and potentially dangerous claims, and they might not be fully qualified to perform the procedure at all. Many of these experts claim that their procedures are totally pain-free, which is absolutely not true. They also make claims that the hair removal is completely permanent, and they might go so far as to guarantee absolutely no hair regrowth. Permanent laser hair removal has not been proven thus far. There is no governmental regulation of who can purchase the laser hair removal machines or requirements for training or any kind of quality control standards, therefore take heed that there is a great risk for physical injury and loss of a substantial amount of your money. There are some who believe that making laser hair removal more widely available by opening the procedure to not just physicians. They feel this will make it more affordable. But, it is not worth the possible health and financial risks to you by doing business with someone who might not know what they are doing. They best thing to do is consult a reputable physician, and ask many questions before you make a commitment. Know that laser hair removal will probably not result in the permanent removal of your unwanted hair. Rather, it will probably help to diminish the hair, and ease any embarrassment you might feel.

Learn the essential information for picking the right beauty clinic for your treatment. Permanent Laser Hair Removal

The Secret To Creating Beauty From The Inside Out

Women wanting to be beautiful is as old as civilization. At different times in history, women have ingested arsenic to improve their complexions, used warm urine from young boys to remove their freckles and took belladonna to produce dreamy eyes. The beauty business is a $160 billion, a year, global industry. The cosmetic surgery business is a $20 billion business. These industries play on the fear of looking ugly as much as the need to look beautiful and for good reason. Attractive people are perceived to be more intelligent, more successful and better in bed. Although the beauty industry has traditionally marketed to women, the male market is increasing.

Part of the challenge which the beauty industry faces is truth in advertising. Increasingly, consumers have tested products which make grandiose claims, only to be disappointed. The current trend is on well being as well as outer beauty. A healthy individual, in good physical shape, is perceived to be an attractive individual. Here are four factors which can help you to achieve beauty from the inside out.

Water. Water is an essential component of the human body. When we fail to replace lost water we can enter a state of dehydration. If you have ever been thirsty, you have experienced the beginnings of dehydration. A rule of thumb is: check your urine. If your urine is clear to light colored you are adequately hydrated. A lack of water in your system can lead to overeating. Sometimes, when we feel that we are hungry we are actually thirsty. When you feel hunger, have a glass or two of water and wait 15 minutes. If you are still hungry, eat something. I keep a 32 ounce bottle of water with me at all times and sip from it throughout the day. I usually finish two bottles a day.

Oxygen. According to Dr. Spencer Way in the Journal of American Association of Physicians, ? Insufficient oxygen means insufficient biological energy that can result in anything from mild fatigue to life threatening disease.? Sufficient oxygen is necessary for a healthy life. We can exist for up to 40 days without food, 4 days without water but no more than 3 minutes without oxygen. Due to pollution and the thinning ozone layer, oxygen levels in our air are believed to be around 21%. Adequate oxygen levels are very important in that hostile organisms cannot live in an oxygen rich environment.

Colostrum and Leptin. Colostrum is a natural food, rich in anti aging and immune factors. Leptin is a small hormone-like protein primarily produced by fat cells. Small fat cells produce more leptin than large fat cells. Leptin is important because it sends out a signal to suppress appetite. Some of the benefits of the colostrum/leptin combination are: inch loss, building of lean muscle, high energy levels, tightening and toning of the skin, better sleep and much more. I believe this to be an essential combination in achieving beauty from the inside out.

Sleep. Adequate sleep is important on more than one level. It is the number one defense against stress. Cortisol, a hormone, is released during stressful events and can, over time, lead to a risk of infection and disease. Sleep is also important in minimizing weight gain. Many Americans that are sleep deprived are also overweight. The amount of sleep suggested for the average person is 8-10 hours. When Sophia Loren, a popular actress and reigning beauty in the sixties and seventies, was asked how she still looked so beautiful at an older age, her answer was that she naps every day.

As a final note: If you are taking vitamin supplements, your urine will be darker for several hours after taking them. There are many companies that advertise products that profess to raise oxygen levels in your system. As always, use due diligence in your choice of products. If you try and follow this guide to beauty, you should see results in the form of looking and feeling younger and healthier.

Constance Weygandt is an author, speaker and balance mentor. For more information on health and beauty or to receive her newsletter, visit her at http://www.balancedwellnessonline.com

Constance Weygandt is an author, speaker and balance mentor. For more information on health and beauty or to receive her newsletter, visit her at http://www.balancedwellnessonline.com.

8 Ways to Fall In Love with Fitness

No, it's not impossible. You can fall in love with exercise instead of having that dreaded feeling every time you lace up your sneakers. The trick to falling in love with fitness is finding something you love to do, and trying new things because you may discover a dormant passion for line dancing, snow shoeing, or even something as exotic as fencing. It's time to uncover your inner athlete and fall in love all over again!

Balls, Bosu and Barrels ? If you were the kid who was always climbing the monkey bars and ropes at the park, you'll have tons of fun getting fit with these fitness tools. Exercise balls can be used for all kinds of abdominal exercises, a Bosu is a neat device for balance training and core stability exercises, and you can use a small barrel for practicing Pilates ? all in the comfort of your own home. So next time your at the park with your kids, they'll be chasing you on the monkey bars!

Square Dancing ? This energetic style of dance may look strange to you ? but it's great exercise ? and great fun! This folk dancing tradition has existed in Canada for hundreds of years and has maintained its popularity as a social activity often deemed friendship set to music. Now this form of dance is even more popular as people are doh-si-dohing their way to being fit! Don't knock IT before you try it! You may forget you're getting fit because you're having so much fun!

Snowshoeing ? Snowshoes are thousands of years old, and Native Canadians used to use snowshoes as a form of transport. Only in the last century has snowshoeing become a recreational sport. Now, Canadians across the country are strapping on their snowshoes and heading for the trails to spend some time outdoors, at one with nature, while boosting cardiovascular fitness and toning their backsides. Today's modern snowshoes are typically lightweight, aluminum frames with fabric decks and strap bindings as opposed to the classic bent-wood frames crisscrossed with rawhide strips. In recent years, many celebrities have talked about the physical benefits of snowshoeing, especially when it comes to toning your glutes and quads.

Snowshoes are inexpensive compared to skis and snowboards, and snowshoeing is not a difficult sport, but don't let that fool you into thinking you are not getting a good workout. Using poles, whether specially designed for snowshoeing or made for cross-country skiing, they will help you maintain balance and give your upper body a good workout too, especially when you're doing some intense climbing.

Buddy Up! ? It's no secret that having a fitness buddy helps get you going. Let's face it, when your doorbell rings at 6 a.m., you're not going to hide under the covers and ignore your buddy. Or, when your work buddy grabs you for your daily lunchtime power walk, you're less likely to sit at your desk and graze. A workout buddy provides a little extra incentive to get you going, and a little less response time to say no to exercise!

Feel Good in Fun Clothes! ? Remember the old adage about how when you look good, you feel better? This goes for the gym too. If you buy yourself some fun fitness clothes that you feel good in, you are more likely to have more confidence in yourself and as a result, push yourself harder at the gym. Stores like Winners and The Bay offer great deals on workout clothes that are able to stand up to any fitness test. Remember, if you look the part, you're more likely to feel the part!

Bring the Outdoors Inside ? So what if the temperature is way below zero and the wind chill is making you shake like a leaf. Quit lamenting warm days gone by, and bring your beloved outdoor sports indoors. Shed all your layers, and find an indoor rollerblading rink, grab your tennis partner and hit your local tennis club, climb the rock wall at your local YMCA, hit a spinning class, or throw on your bathing suit and swim laps at your local pool. Create your own warmth, and you won't be missing those days any longer.

Position Yourself Properly ? Sometimes watching others can give you just the boost you need to get going at the gym. Look around you and position yourself next to someone who inspires you and watch yourself take off! You'll soon be running to keep up with them...

Take Your Toddler With You? Most mothers never know when they'll be able to squeeze in a little exercise time while running their kids around all day. Nowadays, many gyms have daycares, but if you don't want to leave your children, you can exercise with them! Of course, you can run around outside all together, play in the snow, and build snowmen. But, if it's too cold, why not try a kid-friendly Pilates video? Most companies which sell Pilates videos have kid-friendly ones too. Your kids will have a blast getting fit with you while trying all those fun exercises!

Richard Moore is the Founder an President of Everything Health and Beauty! For Men and Women Our WebMall is quickly becoming one of the most trusted and easy to use collection of shopping stores to create a fun and relaxing online shopping experience...and we are constantly searching for other stores with quality products, great prices and top notch customer service. If there is a shop you like...please tell us about it and we will do our best to put it on our site. Our goal is to have everything you need for your Health, Beauty, Fitness and Wellness needs... all in one place.

Everything Health and Beauty! http://www.everythinghealthandbeauty.9k.com

The Mirror of Beauty

The probe of human mind has marked every inch of success but the art of drawing parallels for what beauty is, has remained a great mystery. For some philosophers, beauty is the degree of attraction and admiration, provoked in an observer. But it is argued that the same beauty does not affect everyone the same way. It varies dramatically. A few think thanks have defined it as a degree of perfection, but perfection in one field may not be of any interest to an observer. So beauty is very difficult to explain fully, but it may be said that it is a game of comparison. Suppose there is only one woman in the world, now question is whether she is beautiful or not. The answer unambiguously is that you can?t say anything because you don?t have another woman to compare with.

But sailing beyond the ocean of imagination, one realizes that there is a factor that determines the degree of beauty, i.e. a personal dictionary, which translates the mortals and assigns degree of beauty. The holy words of human history will peep out from the gale of truth and will strongly proclaim that Juliet was a goddess for a Romeo a god for her and rest, the particles of dust. Heer for ranjha was enough, and he for her, to lead whole their life together with few straws of love. But remember, if all the lovers of the world of the world are invited to a party to ask who amongst all is the most beautiful, they certainly shall stamp the claim of beauty on the hearts and souls of their own beloved which indeed is not their narrow-mindedness but a natural fact that ?beauty lies in the eyes of beholder?.

One day a great historian whispered in my ears a story? ?once upon a time there was king so fond of beauty that he called his most loyal and faithful negro slave and ordered him to go from east to west and from north to south and fetch him such a paragon of beauty that neither moon would have risen with such splendors nor the oysters of ocean would have given birth to such magnificent pearls; neither ladies of paradise would have looked so charming not the preachers of beauty would have been able to give such bewitching example, neither any artist would have created such mind blowing portrait nor a poet from the depth of his imagination would have been able to compose such riveting verse; neither any dove would have its pinion soar such marvelously not the Aphrodite would have marked such excellence. And if I say for her that she is the most beautiful spirit God ever created, then the claimants of beauty should have said:? we are like lumps of coal in a mine and she a diamond among us.? So, go my man whose head crown of my faith rests, on whose shoulders stars of firm belief shine and on whose chest medals of sure obedience are stamped. Go and present me the beauty that should be praised and witnessed by the twinkling stars.?

The negro servant bowed down and went away calmly to the peaks from where the sun pierced its shining fingers into the dark curtains of night, from where Shakespeare and Shelley enjoyed drinks of inspiration, from where the portrait of Mona Liza was found and from where moon extracts its gleaming light; and thus he went through plains to mountains, through valleys to deserts, through unfathomable cares to celestial cities and through each and every inch of this world where life seemed breathing.

After indefatigable efforts, he went to the king, presented him what seemed the goddess of beauty to him, his Negro daughter. At this, the king asked, ?did you not find any soul more beautiful than this??

He kept silent for a while, then raised his head and said: ?Your Excellency, my blood shall be showered in your feet if I speak but the truth. You asked me to bring Aphrodite but I brought my Negro daughter; the reason was my loyalty. Your Excellency, for you her black complexion may seem coal in the dark but for me it is as beautiful as back rose or a diamond. To you her dry hair may look like that of a witch of some old myth dancing in woods but for me her hair is no less than the curtains of paradise. To you her wrinkled hands may seem as a deserted sight of this land but to me they seem as gods, to cope up the world?s fate in it has sketched these lines on it. To you her eyes may seem as those of angels when embodying eyes have mistaken but to me success. To you her wide nose may seem as dark, unfathomable caves of stone ages but to me it is no less than Noah?s Ark. Therefore, Your Excellency, my obedience and loyalty to you compelled me to bring my daughter to you.?

Then the historian smiled and said, ?Yes! Beauty lies in the eyes of beholder.?

In quest of defining and explaining the beauty, two schools of thought have emerged so far. One proclaims importance of inner beauty and the other preaches the pleasure presented by worldly beauties. But in fact all beautiful things are not necessarily good, charming and attractive but all good and true things are always beautiful. Therefore, it is well said by Keats:

Beauty is truth, truth beauty, That?s all ye know on earth And all ye need to know.?

The school of thought preaching inner beauty bore these words on the preface of its textbook:

?History is evident that the world has given birth to many worldly beauties which only could help to quench the thirst of people and awake beast in them. Many beauties passed by without any notice but the beauty of soul and conscience has claimed triumph over hearts of millions and marked its eternal existence. The people blessed with purity of soul, truthfulness of their conscience, goodness of their deeds and firmness of their faith have succeeded to scratch their name on the forehead of this earth and lead their nation to the peals of glory. And thus they are still breathing in the hearts of many mortals. Nobody asks whether Aristotle was handsome or not, whether Alexander was strong tall in stature or not and whether Anarkali when buried alive inside the walls posed like a queen or not. People do not ask such questions, but everybody does ask that how they climbed to success inch by inch. The open secret of their success, in fact, is their character, behavior, determination, zeal and enthusiasm which contributed towards their success and inner beauty.?

On the contrary, the school of thought preaching worldly beauty is thanking his God in these words:

?Thanks my God, for you have blessed us such beauties, whose single glance shuns off our day-long tiredness, whose heart may prove as a place of eternal peace to our souls, whose sight reminds us of your Excellence. Thanks my God, you have bestowed upon us such beauty, the wish to achieve, which proves a source of fuel for our body, mind and soul. This beauty has decorated this terrifying and worthless world; and it cheers us up when we are cooped in the cells of gloom, worries and misfortunes. Oh God! Really the beauty that you have blessed us with is a source of living in this frightful world.?

In fact, since the creation of this universe, beauty has been neglected and stigmas of frailty have been marked on its forehead. Beauty seems to be an emblem of nothing but thirst rubbing machine. Those who dwell in this world have been really mistaken in understanding the true beauty. When the beauty reigns its lost crown these mortals will see with their eyes open and sense smelling the truth that worldly beauty was just a mirage. Praise be to the Lord, who gifted us these praiseworthy inner beauties which indeed enabled mankind to kindle flames of love even in the dark. And, therefore, we must stop lauding the beauty only. We should also extol its creator, the Almighty GOD.

NAVEED AHMED CHANDIO, A person with bundles of knots to untie. The thinking fuel for him has been love, beauty and the inner rebelion. Most of the times, he would prefere to let the things be interwoven for the beauty of life remains in having some reason to fulfil. He is a fairly good student of Nature and feels proud of it. The unthoughtfulness, cruelity, trachery and hatred are few things that he never liked or perhaps he never got aware of. Naveed chandio lives in karachi, Pakistan.

Make An Easy Lotion For Your Skin

Years ago I found out how incredible easy it is to make lotion. It is so inexpensive and organic that I wondered why anyone would even consider spending a dime on the chemical rich lotions on the market.

Besides I had an added incentive, I have eczema, so I am extremely sensitive to what I put on my skin. Making my own lotion was a great alternative for me.

To begin, for a lotion base all you need is water, oil and an emulsifier. An emulsifier is simply an ingredient that blends the water and oil together. Here is the base that I begin with to make my lotion:

? cup distilled water
? cup oil (I usually use olive, almond, macadamia nut, or grape seed)
1 TBS liquid lecithin

You can experiment from here by adding essential oils, combining other oils; you can steep beneficial herbs into your water before you add your oil, etc?

Here is a nice winter lotion to get you started:

? cup distilled water
? cup olive oil
1 TBS lecithin
6-8 drops of geranium oil
2-4 drops Myrrh oil
400 IU Vitamin E oil (1-2 open capsules)

Geranium oil is good for supporting balance and rejuvenating dry skin conditions and for wrinkled and matured skin. Myrrh is a gentle oil that is effective in replenishing moisture.

Vitamin E oil is an excellent antioxidant and helps to protect the skin as well as a nice preservative.

Blend all ingredients in the blender either on whip or cream. You will have a nice creamy firm lotion. Add more water to make a lighter lotion. Store in the refrigerator in hot climates or store in a cool place. Shake well before use.

Enjoy your lotion. Hopefully this little recipe will inspire you to become creative!

About The Author

Danielle Sims explored her library of alternative health, herbal books, and aromatherapy books and created a blueprint for making her own body wrap formulas at home. Now she offers this information in an e-book entitled Wrap Yourself Slim: Body Wrap Exposed. Monthly newsletter is also available at her web site. for more information go to http://www.wrapyourselfslim.com

links@wrapyourselfslim.com

Common Pitfalls Of Plastic Surgery

Common pitfalls of plastic surgery are those involving before and after pictures with photographic tricks or attractive models instead of the surgeon's patients, that are publicly displayed in printed ads, online advertisement or broadcasted by TV,audio-visual or specific tele-shopping and infomercials.

Before and after pictures are useful to help you make the decision to have cosmetic surgery when they are real, but not advisable as criteria to select a surgeon, since no ethical surgeon can guarantee results this way, but if so, be sure to get his promises in writing.

Fake testimonials implying that anyone can get these results of people sharing their experiences may only be a marketing plan whether viewed on TV, through the internet, heard on the radio or at the surgeon's office; they have a powerful influence in the patient's final decision. Pitfalls can not be easily detected due to the impossibility to verify the authenticity of any given testimonial or the identity of the happy patients.

Because the purpose of testimonials are considered to be a way to solicit patients, most professional societies and State medical boards prohibit the use of testimonials to advertise Plastic Surgery. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) considers this marketing tool a violation to the code of ethics of 97% of certified surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, members of ASPS.

Impressive sounding surgeon's credentials or a plastic surgery procedure that does not name the surgeon may be listed as pitfalls of plastic surgery. While it is obvious to expect that a surgeon has the proper training, credentials and experience to provide the plastic surgery procedure or service you are seeking, remember that many physicians may call themselves plastic surgeons or cosmetic surgeons with training. In fact, in most states any physician may perform any procedure without peer scrutiny and no training requirements.

Since there are no requirements that the physician be is a trained surgeon, anyone may claim to be a board-certified surgeon simply by joining a sound-a-like organization, but the true meaning is that The American Society of Plastic Surgeons enforces one of the most rigorous ethical codes in the medical profession, so the best way to find out a surgeon's facts is consulting only surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Other pitfalls of plastic surgery are those offering dramatic results with superficial treatments, minimal or non-invasive procedures, no risk or little risk and downtime as well as a variety of products, procedures or manipulations without mention of the doctor's qualification, board certification or his/her specialty. These promises are designed more for marketing reasons than a real therapeutic value.

These individual procedures may be inexpensive, but offers only little or temporal improvement, so it is necessary for multiple sessions before seeing positive results, raising in the mean time the costs, often comparable to the total cost of the plastic surgery. Non surgical procedures with high tech names suggest new approaches to youthful appearance and the expectation of major effectiveness.

All these issues make it difficult for patients to separate plastic surgery hype from reality.

Matthew Leo is the publisher of http://www.CosmeticEnhancement.info, http://www.AcneMedicine.info and http://www.ADietGuide.com websites.

Rhinoplasty ? The Most Common Of Nose Jobs

There is no denying that the nose is a defining feature on the human face. This brings us to the subject of the most common form of rhinoplasty.

Rhinoplasty ? The Most Common Of Nose Jobs

Besides liposuction, the cosmetic reformation of the nose, known as rhinoplasty, is a hugely popular cosmetic surgical procedure. Many people, both male and female, are unhappy with the look of their nose. Whether it is an inherited flaw or a crooked nose from an accident, plastic surgeons are able to correct abnormalities in your nose and make you feel better about how it looks. This, of course, translates to more confidence on your part.

One of the biggest complaints that plastic surgeons hear from patients is not the size of breasts, butts or stomachs, it is the size and appearance of the tip on the nose. Rhinoplasty is the method used to correct the tip. If you feel that the tip of your nose is too round and full, you may think that it detracts from the rest of your face. Rhinoplasty can work to correct this and refine it so that the tip of your nose looks in proportion to the rest of the nose and therefore, to the rest of your face.

If you have complaints about your nose and rhinoplasty is your choice to correct it, there are different techniques that your plastic surgeon may use. Some doctors choose to use sutures, as they do not require the cutting and removal of any tissue. The tip is literally sewn together to make a skinnier, more refined looking end of the nose. Another technique that your surgeon might use is cephalic resection; where a portion of the cartilage in the tip of the nose is removed to make it smaller and less full looking.

No surgical procedure is without risk, and that includes the various surgical methods of correcting the tip of your nose. Anesthesia will need to be used in these procedures, and there is the risk of bruising, swelling and infection at the incision site, just as there is with any surgical procedure. Be sure to consult thoroughly with your doctor and surgeon before deciding to have any rhinoplasty procedure done.

The only way to correct the tip is rhinoplasty. If you feel that the tip of your nose is really off-balance, and you think that a change in your appearance would make you feel better, speak to a board certified plastic surgeon. They will know the best course of treatment for your nose, and if you will be able to get a more aesthetically pleasing look by having rhinoplasty performed.

Ricardo de Silva is with PlasticSurgeonPractices.com - a directory of plastic surgeons. Visit us to read more plastic surgery articles.

5 Insider Beauty Secrets Other Women Don't Want You To Know! (Part 1)

Imagine what you would do if you knew miracle working beauty secrets. And if you had the self confidence that comes with being beautiful.

Now before you laugh and say you?ll never be beautiful, listen up.

I know where you?re coming from! At one time I didn?t know any beauty secrets. Before I learned any beauty secrets I was plain, even bordering on ugly.

I had acne, chapped lips, weight issues, wardrobe disasters, and not so white teeth. But thats all become past with the 5 beauty secrets that have changed my life.

I pulled through all of my beauty nightmares and learned some valuable beauty secrets as a result.

Now people are always commenting to me on my beauty. Saying I should be a model, etc.... And guys are no longer even an issue! I don?t have to look for them, they come to me.

It turns out the best beauty secrets are those that are won by personal knowledge and experience. Not just by reading general tips in magazines.

So by experimentation over the years and by perseverance, I?ve found out what really works and what doesn?t.

Beauty Secret 1 Unchap and beautify your lips with this technique.

For soft, beautifully kissable lips, you need the following: a washcloth (I?m not kidding either), warm water, and your favorite brand of lip balm.

First you apply a coat of lip balm. Then wet one corner of the washcloth, put the warm wet corner of the washcloth between your lips, press them together and hold for 5 seconds.

Then gently massage any remaining lip balm from lips with the wet corner of the washcloth, and dry lips with a corner thats dry.

Apply lip balm again to keep your lips chap free. You may also apply lipstick or lip gloss on over the layer of lip balm.

I learned this was the best way to keep lips from chapping, after going through too many winters with dried, and chapped lips.

Beauty Secret 2 Clear your acne, and get beautiful skin.

For clear glowing skin, a little home remedy does wonders for my complexion, as it should with yours too.

Steam your face for 20 minutes every night after washing it, then every other night after steaming your face, massage a half teaspoon castor oil over face.

Leave it on at night while you sleep and wash off immediately upon waking.

Steam face for twenty more minutes in the morning after washing. When you finish steaming your face splash your face with cool water and dry it.

If your skin starts to show any signs of a pimple forming. Take one night off from steaming and applying castor oil and apply Benzoyl Peroxide over face.

Take the next night off also from the steaming, castor oil, and benzoyl peroxide. Continue facial regimen with steaming and castor oil the following night.

This beauty secret will moisturize your face at the same time it will help clear up acne and pimples. But only if you work at it consistently.

Beauty Secret 3 Good taste in clothes.

When shopping for clothes try to stay away from really big prints, or weird mixes of colors (eg. green, pink and blue flowers combined on a white background, for instance).

Clothes like these just scream ?I?m color blind!? And if you in fact, actually are color blind, always shop with a friend who isn?t and has good taste in clothes.

Buy basic colors. Solid reds, pinks, blues, whites, and blacks. Or things with small tasteful prints and designs.

Then mix and match each basic color with a corresponding one (blue goes well with white, pink, and sometimes with red, and different shades of the same color almost always go well together).

Put these beauty secrets to use, and start seeing the benefits today. Be sure to read Part 2 of this article, which contains the last 2 beauty secrets.

In Part 2 I'll teach you the beauty secrets for whitening your smile without draining your bank account. And how to use clothes to your advantage by hiding figure flaws and defects.

If you want to be gorgeous, visit Get Gorgeous Now. Where you'll learn hair styling tips, wardrobe secrets, and much much more on whitening your teeth, improving the texture of your skin, and looking your best.

Nail Care Secrets

Manicures, pedicures, artificial tips, paraffin treatments, nail jewelry - the nail care industry is booming, with nail salons seemingly on every corner.

Why is this, do you suppose? There was a time when only the wealthy had regular manicures, but now it's commonplace. Whether you go to a salon weekly, or choose to buff and polish your nails at home, it's important to take care of your fingertips.

Take a look at your hands. What do they say about you? Think about what they say to others. Are your hands rough, red, irritated? Or, are they smooth and pampered?

Are your cuticles ragged? Or have you cut or pushed them back? Hot pink, French tips, or clear-coated, it's not the color you wear that matters. What really matters is the condition of your hands and nails, and you can improve the state of your nails by taking a few simple steps.

Protect your nails

Wear gloves when washing the dishes or the kitchen floor. Do not use your nails as tools. They aren't meant to scrape the price stickers off your new picture frame. Be sure to apply sunscreen all the way down to the tips of your nails. Sun damage affects nails, too.

Moisturize your nails regularly

Every time you wash your hands, you need to moisturize your hands. Keep hand cream in your purse. Have a bottle in each bathroom of your home and one at the kitchen sink.

Nails need to breath

Every so often, leave the polish out of your manicure routine. Let your nails get a little oxygen.

Do not use nail products containing formaldehyde

It?s not used in biology class anymore. Don?t use it on your nails, it?s not safe.

Gelatin really does work

You thought it was a myth when you heard it as a teenager, but it?s true. Eating gelatin helps your nails grow strong and healthy.

Nutrition

Water, fresh fruits and vegetables, protein from meats and fish, and vitamins (multi and E, in particular) all stimulate nail growth.

Sterilize, sterilize, sterilize

Keep your home manicure kit clean. At the salon, purchase a set from the nail technician. The salon will label it, store it, and use it just for you.

They?re inexpensive and essential to protecting yourself from fungus and communicable infections. Don?t be shy, be sure your manicurist knows that you take cleanliness seriously.

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Allison Saunders is a MAC qualified Make-up Artist and the author of an amazing new course, Hollywood Makeup Secrets a step-by-step simple video system for maximizing your inner and outer beauty potential. You can learn more about Allison, and subscribe to her free newsletter by visiting:

http://www.hollywoodmakeupsecrets.com/dt/s.php?id=9

(c)2005 HollywoodMakeupSecrets.com. All rights reserved. ----------------------------------------------------------

Beauty from the Inside for Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin you may find that many of the treatments you try are too harsh for your skin. While other women are buying skin care products with vitamin C or anti-oxidants, you are using the mild brand with no anti-aging benefits.

So, what can you do about it? How can you, with your sensitive skin get the same anti-aging effects that other women are getting?

While others are applying expensive anti-aging products on their skin, you can eat them. Now, of course, I don?t mean for you to eat your expensive night cream or any other store-bought skin products, but you can eat the effective ingredients in them. Since your skin is your largest organ, the benefits of eating the ingredients will be similar to applying them directly to your skin.

Here are some ingredients you can start with.

Green tea: There are plenty of skin care product now that contain green tea. You?ll hear about green tea everywhere and it?s now in many brands of skin care. However, if you have sensitive skin and can?t use those products, then you can drink green tea and have the same effects on your skin. Plus, the bonus is that you?ll be benefitting every other part of your body as well. Some of the other benefits of green tea are weight loss, lower cholesterol, and possibly a lower risk of cancer.

Cucumbers: An increase in fruits and vegetables in your diet can have a positive effect on the overall appearance of your skin. Increase your vegetable intake and your skin will thank you.

Vitamin C: Take a supplement or increase your intake of oranges and other fruits. The anti-oxidants in them are wonderful for your skin.

Remember, your skin is your largest organ. Take care of it by feeding it well, whether you?re putting products on it, or feeding your body with nutritious foods. And, for those of us with sensitive skin, we?ll be saving a fortune, avoiding those expensive jars of cream and heading straight for the grocery store produce aisles.

Tina Titas is a columnist for several health-related publications. She recommends http://www.EasyNaturalRemedies.com/skincare.html and http://www.MyBeautyRecipes.com for natural skin care that you can make with ingredients in your kitchen cupboards.

Butt Face

I know many of us women spend tons of money or have loads of products, and have spent countless amounts of money. There are so many products and creams that claim to dramatically diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, blemishes, as well as strengthen and nourish skin.

The original formula was created for a babies diaper rash. Today, there is a steady following which is causing an unembroidered flurry as its steadfast users praise its exciting intrinsic worth by word of mouth it is described as the miracle cream under $6. A month ago I never heard of A&D, but I did know what diaper rash cream was.

I have found it to be the best moisturizing cream you`ll ever apply to your skin; it is specially formulated with two active ingredients, Petrolatum and Lanolin, and forms a protective barrier to help seal out irritating wetness and allows skin to heal naturally.

If you find yourself getting slapped in the face for having a cute bum, I think it?s a sure sign ?you apparently look like ass. What is the point to dash out into those over priced department stores; just to pile on perfume based lotions? Most of them break you out, and will some of these manufactures ever get it?

We (women) hate, we hate lipstick that taste like perfume! Anyway, there are tons of creams for this, creams for that out there, but it seems diaper rash cream is good for your butt (I mean face) and it will not burn a hole in your pocket.

Diaper Rash Cream is slathered on baby bums all over the world and works wonders for those delicate arses, says Jenni Rivard. Before you know it your face will be smooth and soft like a baby?s butt!

Veronica Marie is Senior Editor for She Unlimited Magazine. http://www.sheunlimited.com and heads up the community at http://www.sheunlimited.com/forums

Plastic Surgery vs. Reconstructive Surgery

Plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery are bandied about so much people often confuse them. While both involve the improvement of your appearance, there are distinct differences.

Plastic Surgery vs. Reconstructive Surgery

Both plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery are designed to improve the appearance of a person. This can be done through lifts, tucks, reshaping and so on. The correct usage of the terms, however, is dependent upon the underlying reason for the surgical procedure.

Plastic surgery is an elective surgery. In its most basic form, plastic surgery takes a normal part of the body and improves it in a manner desired by the patient. Common plastic surgery procedures include liposuction, breast enhancement or reduction, nose reshaping, reshaping of the abdomen and the well-known facelift. All of these surgeries are based purely on a voluntary desire to improve one?s appearance.

Reconstructive surgery is often elective, but can also be medically necessary. Reconstructive surgery differs from plastic surgery in one significant way. It is focused on making improvements to a damaged or abnormal part of the body. For example, a person may suffer damage from trauma or disease that leaves a part of the body looking abnormal and functionally deficient, such as breaking facial bones in an automobile accident. Reconstructive surgery will be undertaken to repair the facial structure so that it both performs and appears normally. While appearance is important, most reconstructive surgery focuses on functionality first.

The differences between plastic and reconstructive surgery often blur. Breast enhancement or reduction surgery is a form of plastic surgery. Repairing breasts after the all too common complications of breast cancer is considered reconstructive surgery. Repairing the septum of the nose is considered reconstructive surgery, but simply reshaping the nose is considered plastic surgery. This blurred line is repeated in other areas as well.

Ultimately, the dividing line between reconstructive surgery and plastic surgery is mostly an academic debate or vary obvious given specific circumstances. Regardless, it is important to understand that there is a distinction.

Ricardo de Silva is with PlasticSurgeonPractices.com a directory of plastic surgeons.

Dandruff More Than An Itch

Big companies have made lot of money by selling shampoos to people who have dandruff problems. Famous actors and sports stars have endorsed these products. The flaking of dead skin which looks like snowflakes can be embarrassing experience.

Dandruff can happen to a person of any age but it is found in people between the ages of 10 and 70. Dandruff is a sign of skin disease which can be categorized as fungal infection. There is constant itching and flaking of the scalp which many times can be controlled by shampoos. Having dandruff will also be termed as not taking care of your hair properly. There are different types of dandruff depending upon the skin type of the person as well as on the basis of personal hygiene. They appear to be white, yellow, patches of dead scales, sometime small and sometimes big lumps of it. Many believe that dandruff is due to dry hair but it is the opposite which is true i.e. generally people who have oily scalps suffer most from dandruff.

Dandruff is mainly caused due to a fungus called Malassezia furfur (or also known as pityrosporum). This is generally and naturally found on the skin surface of all people. When this fungus grows out of proportion then the renewal of cells gets imbalanced making the scalp itchy. This fungus feeds on the oil which is released by the hair follicles leading towards an increased cell turnover. In some cases the skin cells may die and is replaced fortnightly, as opposed to around once a month which usually is the case in healthy people. There are many reasons which trigger the immense amount of flaking and sometimes cause redness and irritation due to constant itching. By having a healthy living and persona; hygiene one can have beautiful and lustrous hair.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for some of the most common illnesses and hair problems such as dandruff.

Homemade Beauty Recipes

Do you want to look stunning with out wasting too much money? If your answer is yes, then you should read this tips. They have past on from generations to generations. The best part of it, is that you may already have the ingredients at home!

Get rid of blemishes
Apply toothpaste to the required area, Leave on overnight.

Dried or chapped skin
Apply petroleum jelly (vaseline) affected area.

Falling hair
Pour cinnamon in to 12 or more ounces of water, let it boil for 5-10 minutes. After it cools down, apply to hair scalp for 10 -15 minutes. Then shampoo and rinse as usual.

Hot oil treatment
Heat any vegetable oil (do not over heat). Apply to hair cover with shower cap and leave on for 10-20 minutes.

Blackheads
Mix oatmeal and honey, apply to skin. Massage skin for 5-7 minutes then rinse off with warm water.

About The Author

Kenia Morales is the owner and publisher of online magazine For Every Aspect Of Today's Woman. To find more beauty tips and other women related issues and topics visit her site at http://www.kpatra.com

keniamorales@kpatra.com

Makeup Makeover

Do you need a make-up makeover? You can easily spruce up your look by adding a few key seasonal products to your make-up bag. The goal is to have fun and find products that create a look that makes you look and feel great. Many Professional Beauty Consultants will let you try-before-you-buy and will assist you in making smart color choices. Still feeling a little intimidated? Here are some steps you can take to prepare for your first color consultation:

1.Take an inventory of your current makeup bag. Keep in mind that cream and liquid based makeup like foundations and concealors have a shelf life. If your makeup begins to separate, in the bottle or cake and break?get rid of it. Mascara should only be used for one season. Bacteria could develop on the brush. Your products should be fresh and bacteria free, after all, you are putting them on your face! Taking an inventory will also help you determine what you need and what you can live without.

2.Note colors you like and colors you absolutely hate. How many times have you gotten home from the store, so excited about your new lipstick, only to find that you have 3 others in almost the exact shade? Bring your favorite colors with you to avoid duplicating or to match up colors you love that are getting low.

3.Be willing to try. It?s only makeup. The beauty of cosmetics (no pun intended) is that they are temporary. If you don?t like the look, it will wash right off.

4.Have fun. Remember, when you were a little girl playing with your mother?s makeup. You and your best girlfriends crammed in the bathroom, pink, blue and bright purple powder everywhere. Sparkly, glittery pale blue lips with hot pink eye shadow and enough body glitter to light the Lincoln Tunnel. Oh yes?those were the days. Playing with makeup is fun. Sit back and enjoy the ride!

Have a great day!

Dawn Hull
Professional Skin Care Consultant http://www.MaryKay.com/ShopOnline

Sign up to receive a FREE monthly beauty newsletter: Beaut-e-News - Discover what's new, what's now ? what's changing the face of makeup and skin care! You'll find beauty secrets revealed and tips and techniques that will help you look your beautiful best. Click here to register: http://www.marykay.com/PWS/MyMK/Login.aspx?Moniker=SHOPONLINE

10 Beauty and Health Resolutions Every Woman Can Keep!

So you can't lose those extra 20 pounds in 30 days - or hit the gym three days a week like you wish you could. But that doesn't mean you can't face the New Year with some resolve to be a better, healthier, even prettier you in 2006.

In fact, Yale professor Dr. David Katz says we should lighten up on strict resolutions and approach the New Year with reasonable expectations. Doing so will not only help you stick to your resolve, but the small changes you make can lead to bigger changes down the road - and an ambitious desire to improve your life in many more ways.

If you let the small things add up they will add up to meaningful changes in the overall pattern of your life, says Katz, director of Yale University's Prevention Research Center, and co-author of Stealth Health: How to sneak age-defying, disease-fighting habits into your life without really trying!

To help get you started on those small but meaningful changes, here are 10 fast and easy health and beauty resolutions - little things you can do to positively change the way you feel -and the way you look - in 2006! Try one - or all ten - and I promise you'll see the difference way before spring!

1.Never go to bed wearing make-up.

No matter how tired you are, no matter how late it is, take just 2 minutes to slather on and tissue off a facial cleanser and your skin will thank you. Not only will it help remove surface bacteria that could encourage breakouts, most make up is drying to the skin so removing it will help reduce wrinkling while you sleep. If you can squeeze in 30 more seconds for a quick application of moisturizer, you'll see a definite difference in your face in 7 days or less!

2.Never leave the house without sunscreen on your face.

I know . . .you've heard it all before. But I promise you that taking this two minute step will not only yield enormous health benefits (like reducing your risk of skin cancer) it's also the single most important anti aging skin care step you can take. It's true - the sun IS the number one cause of wrinkles and aging skin. And sunscreen - well it's the biggest gun in your wrinkle defense arsenal! To make using it easy and automatic, look for either a moisturizer or a foundation with an SPF 15.

3.Protect your lips - and look younger and sexier!

Want those juicy, sexy, full Angelina lips? You can have them without a lot of muss and fuss IF you protect your pucker with a lip gloss or balm containing sunscreen. When lips are hydrated and protected they will automatically look fuller - and you'll look younger! You can capitalize on the protection if you swap out a matte lipstick for a high wattage gloss in a medium warm pink tone.

4.Whiten your teeth.

If you haven't done it yet, this is the one resolution you MUST try! Not only is it the quickest, most inexpensive way to take years off your appearance, it can boost your confidence and give you that polished, well groomed look rich girl - for just pennies a day.

5.Clean out your make-up bag/ bathroom drawer/ vanity -

and toss any products you've had more than a year. Not only can this help prevent potentially serious eye or skin infections, it will force you to re-evaluate your make up needs - and every woman needs to do that at least once a year! When you head out to the stores to buy items, step out of the box to try a new color or a new make up product. If you always wore lipstick, try gloss, if you only use neutral shadows try a deeper shade for a smokier look. Mix it up - and have fun finding a new look!

6.Keep up with your hair coloring.

The 2 inches of roots look popularized on Sex and the City is going, going, gone! In it's place is more natural, highlighted color . If you're wearing a shade you just can't bear to change, make sure you touch up those roots every 4 weeks. If the time - or the expense - doesn't permit that kind of attention, then think about having your hair professionally highlighted and low lighted - a mixture of many shades and tones of basic colors like honey blonde, or chestnut brown. The look lasts for up to six months without a touch up.

7.Trade in your shower gel for a moisturizing bar of soap.

Did you ever wonder why the ingredient label on your shower gel is 2 inches long and filled with chemical terms you can't pronounce - while the ingredients on an average bar of beauty soap is just one sentence? Most gels contain chemicals, dyes, foaming agents, and lots of drying alcohol - all things your skin doesn't need. Try a daily shower with a moisturizing soap instead - and see your entire body complexion come alive in just 14 days or less. And - you'll save a ton of money too!

8.Wear a bronzer all year long.

Most gals think of a powder bronzer as a summertime treat. But it's also the Hollywood secret that keeps many an aging starlet from looking her age - or letting on how little sleep she really gets! Just a quick pouf of powder on the bridge of your nose, the tops of your cheers, and round the outer rim of your forehead will give you a glow that will leave everyone wondering . . .is she in love . . . again ?

9.Take a calcium/vitamin D supplement every day.

While many women believe calcium is only important if you're pregnant - or post menopausal - the truth is gals of all ages need this vital mineral to maintain a strong and healthy skeleton - and protect against broken bones. What you may not realize: Studies show women in their 20's need this protection as much as women in their 50's! But that's not all! The latest research shows getting adequate calcium may also help keep skin looking younger longer! And since we're all staying out the sun, the vitamin D is essential to make sure the calcium you take is absorbed. Try it for a month - you'll see a difference!

10. Wear fragrance every day!

Even if you're just spending the day doing laundry or cleaning the bathroom, studies show that wearing your favorite fragrance is a great way to lift your mood and keep energy levels high. Starting your day with a dousing of fragrance will also make you feel special - and that can affect how you act and react during the entire day. If you can't afford to use your favorite pricey designer fragrance every day, look for scented body lotions or anoint your pulse points with a fragrant bath oil. For an inexpensive scented body powder purchase any corn-starch based baby powder, pour into an air tight plastic container and spritz the contents several times with your favorite fragrance. Close the lid, shake it - and voila - when you open it you'll have a whole container of perfumed talc for pennies!

Victoria Winston is a former runway model and now the style director of http://www.CountryDutchess.com - a fabulous fashion jewelry and beauty outlet.

AntiAging and You!

We are a product of our environment and must be realistic in knowing that the environment is not pure and because of the basic instinct of greed, we are living in a polluted world. The people who live the longest, exist in the high mountains where the air is not polluted, the water is full of healthy minerals and the food is free of synthetic chemicals. In the polluted world, we must recognize that polluted air, water and food produce free radicals and pathogenic germs that cause us to prematurely age with diseases and pain. For those of us that live in the chemical world, we can live 20 years or more longer, if we prevent free radicals and pathogens from shortening our life. Anti-aging depends on fighting free radicals and pathogens. Conventional medicine may let us live 20 years longer, but with the expectation of suffering. Fortunately, the choice is ours.

ANTIOXIDANTS:
Antioxidants are chemicals that defuse free radicals and other biologically damaging molecular fragments in the body.

They consist of nutrients such as Beta-Carotene, Coenzyme Q10, Selenium, Vitamin C and Vitamin E are well known for their antioxidant properties.

Antioxidants are found in a full-range of fruits and vegetables, as well as in some meat, like fish. However, fruits and vegetables are the key source of antioxidants.

Although, our bodies produce its own antioxidants, the level of product declines over time because of environmental factors and through the aging process.

ANTIOXIDANT THEORY -- HOW THEY WORK:

Free Radicals As part of the normal cell function, cells make toxic molecules called free radicals.

Free radicals are damaged molecules-molecules that are missing electronics

Free radicals are regarded as the primary force of destruction in nearly all-living things.

Free radicals take electrons from other non-damaged molecules. By doing so, the free molecules damage the cell.

As cell damage continues, it contributes to certain diseases and aging.

Free radicals can cause cancer, diabetes, cataracts, cardiovascular disease and wrinkles.

THE BENEFITS OF ANTIOXIDANTS:

Slowing Down Oxidation Antioxidants are good at slowing down the oxidation process.

When oxidation occurs in food, fatty acids undergo chemical changes

Fatty acids are also found in the blood, which can undergo similar chemical changes, as does food.

Mental Decline Resulting From Aging A study published by the Journal of Neuroscience showed that rats fed antioxidant-rich strawberries and spinach had better memories and slower decline of nerve cells functions than rats fed a standard diet.

Most of us knows that we need to consume more fruits and vegetables than meats. Fruits and vegetables plays an important role in protecting against and possibly reversing the cognitive declines seen from aging.

Free radical destruction is said to be a key factor to a decline in memory and motor performance seen in aging.

The brain is especially vulnerable because it is relatively deficient in antioxidants to begin with.

WHICH ANTIOXIDANTS ARE BEST THEN?

Two general types of antioxidants work together to protect the cells and tissues of our bodies. One type protects the aqueous (watery) portion of the tissues and the other the hydrophobic, or lipid (fatty) component. The aqueous environment is protected by vitamin C, and at least two additional antioxidants produced by tissues, glutathione and thioredoxin. Cell membranes are protected by the lipid-soluble antioxidants, including vitamin E, and the ubiquinols (CoQ10). Another antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid, is unique in that it can enter and protect both lipid and water environments.

When vitamins C and E react with and neutralize a free radical, the oxidized or spent vitamins are converted back to the reduced or recharged, active form. Vitamin C can donate electrons to oxidized vitamin E and convert the E back to its active state, leaving vitamin C oxidized. Vitamin C, in turn, can be recharged after reacting with glutathione or the more potent antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid.

The most versatile antioxidant in the cell is alpha lipoic acid. It is one of the more potent antioxidants, owing to its property of being the most easily oxidized. Alpha lipoic acid is the foundation of an antioxidant network involved in the conversion of the spent or oxidized forms of four different cellular antioxidants back to their active protective forms. The obvious questions, then, are how lipoic acid is regenerated and whether this process ever ends.

The answer lies in the unique property of lipoic acid, its solubility in both water and lipid. Lipoic acid can be converted from its oxidized state to its reduced state with the aid of a mitochondrial enzyme (the organelle within the cell where energy is produced). Unlike vitamins C and E, the cell has machinery specifically designed for the regeneration of reduced lipoic acid. Therefore, lipoic acid can itself react with and neutralize free radicals in addition to recycling vitamins C and E (as well as CoQ10, glutathione and thioredoxin). This is critical, since each antioxidant has a unique function. The conclusion, then, is that all of these antioxidants are required for optimal cellular health.

FOODS HIGH IN ANTIOXIDANTS:
Beta-carotene -- Found in dark green, dark yellow and orange vegetables and fruits.

Selenium -- Found in meats, fish, cereal, dairy products, Brazil and some other nuts.

Vitamin C - Found in orange juice, kiwi, grapefruit, strawberries, watermelon, green peppers, cauliflower and broccoli.

Vitamin E - Can be found in mayonnaise, margarine, salad dressing, sunflower seeds, almonds, cashews, crab, shrimp and fish.

RECOMMENDED DIETARY ALLOWANCE:
Make sure you get the RDA for vitamin C, E and beta-carotene. If you rarely eat dark-green or orange varieties of fruits and vegetables, take a supplement, which supplies 100% of the RDA vitamins and minerals.

Studies show that people, especially as they age, don't get the RDA for vitamin E. Good food sources for vitamin E again are breakfast cereals that are fortified with 100% of the RDA for vitamins and minerals, shellfish, mustard or turnip greens, kale and collards.

Ito Nakamura is a Internet Health Enterprenuer specialising in marketing health supplements; health exercise equipments & beauty products. http://www.detoxprofessor.com

5 Myths About Protecting Yourself from Skin Cancer

Sara spends much of her summer near the beach. She lives in a mild climate and is very athletic. She loves to swim, bike and play games outdoors. Sara knows the dangers of the sun and so she opts for tanning salons to get her 'golden glow' while being sure to apply sunscreen every day before heading out.

Joseph lives in a cooler, northern climate. The summers can be very humid, but most of the year is mild or even below freezing during the harshest winter months. The beach has never been much of a draw for him and he spends most of his time doing indoor activities or at his job. Joseph doesn't worry about sunscreen and only had one sunburn that he can remember and that was when he was a child.

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Which of these examples do you most associate yourself with? Did you know that Sara and Joseph are both at risk of developing skin cancer? We have all heard the warnings about the dangers of sun exposure. We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are YOU protected from skin cancer? Consider these myths and facts:

MYTH ONE: Tanning Beds are Safer than the Sun

20 minutes of exposure in a tanning bed is roughly equivalent to four hours in the sun. Although sun beds use UVA rather than UVB rays, 'The Skin Cancer Answer' states that UV-A penetrates more deeply into the skin than UV-B, can cause skin cancer, and may suppress the immune system.

MYTH TWO: Wearing Sunscreen at the Beach is Protection

85 percent of UV rays can even make it through on cloudy days. That means you are equally at risk in the car, walking the dog or letting your children out to play at any time of year - even when you're not at the beach. Of course, you are usually less attired at the beach and so covering up is recommended even when wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen also wears off with sweat and water and should always be applied every two hours or after getting wet.

MYTH THREE: Taking Care Of Your Skin Now Will Protect You

Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 or more years to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people receive about 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later in life. Taking better care now will reduce the risk, but not eliminate the damage already done.

MYTH FOUR: Having a Tan Means You're More Protected

Dark skinned individuals are less likely to develop cancer, but tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated tanning injures the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.

MYTH FIVE: You Can't get Burned on Overcast Days

Just because the sun is hidden by some cloud does not mean that you don't need protection from the harmful effects of the suns rays.

So how do you plan to protect your family this year? Some suggestions are to limit exposure to the sun - especially for infants. Examine your skin for early signs of damage. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours after that. Teach your children good safety habits and be sure you and they are covered up when outdoors. Have fun and be safe.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.

Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.

Choosing the Correct Hair Products for Your Hair

When choosing your shampoo please look closely at the label. You should see all the materials and substances it was made of. The main thing shampoos consist of are detergents the surfactants that make foam show up when mixing with water and air.

Detergents.

Detergent is shampoo's basic and semantic component. After all the shampoo is intended to wash your hair, that's all. All the stuff that is above this definition is called medicated shampoos, conditioners, antiseborrheic shampoos and so on.

Though the amount of the foam does not determine the quality of the shampoo, the detergent has great influence on it. Nowadays few detergents that differ in its chemical structure exist. They are divided into anionic, cationic, nonionic and amphoteric.

Anionic detergents are most commonly used in shampoos and shower gels. They are cheap and have good purifying qualities. Anionic surfactants can be easily removed from the hair.

Cationic surfactants (with positive ions) are used not so often and have higher concentration. Some of them may cause eye irritation.

Amphoteric surfactants that contain positive or negative ions depending from shampoos pH are used for curing damaged and dry hair.

If we put in a line from worst to best we will get the following: Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, TEA Layril Sulfate, OAA Laureth Sulfate. So as you see last three surfactants are the best ones. On every shampoo's label such detergent is displayed first.

Conditioners

Conditioners are not shampoos but assistants. You can find them as a part of shampoos or in individual bottles. There are lots of conditioners that have different practical significance.

Moisturizers are assigned for dry hair because of their ability to draw moisture. Usually the components are proteins and vegetable extracts. Moisturizers are mostly made of lactoserum.

Reconstructors contain proteins like hydrolyzed keratin. It can easily come through hair shell due to its small molecular weight. Reconstructor conditioners are used when the hair is damaged (i.e after hairdressing)

Acidifier conditioners make your hair shiny and elastic. It gives an impression of boosted volume, but it is only an optical illusion. pH index is about 2.5-3.5.

Thermal protectors can be found in shampoos with Therm or Thermal prefix. (like Thermasilk). Its basis are special polymers that distribute warmth when are put on the hair. This is very helpful for people who use curlers and blow-dry often.

Hair conditioners can form a part of shampoo (so called 2 in 1). But the effect is less noticeable then after separate use. During simultaneous use you have lower chances for conditioner to work properly. As for using shampoos and conditioners of different producers.

Using the conditioner

Place conditioner on the hair, but not on the head.

When doing that you can massage the skin on the head with your fingers

If you have mixed hair you should work up only the tips.

After using the rinser that you should wash your head 2-3 times with warm and the last time with cold water.

Medicated shampoos

Medicated shampoos are used for curing illnesses, especially dandruff. Dandruff appears when the microscopical fungus (Malassezia Furfur) starts its activity. That?s why dandruff shampoos contain substances against seborrhea and antifungal agents.

Zinc Pirythione, Climbazole, Ketoconozole, Selenium Disulphide have antimicrobial effect against Malassezia Furfur that is supposed to cause dandruff appearance. Octopirox, Coal Tar, Selenium Disulphide suppress activity of cells that produce fat. Coal Tar, Sulphur , Salicylic Acid have keratolytic effect on the skin. In other words it is the capability to detach layers of dead cells that cause dandruff to appear.

Choosing a shampoo

First of all you must choose shampoo taking in consideration the type of your hair. Thus if you have dry hair you should buy moisturizing shampoo and so on. It is harder to choose when you got long hair of different types (oily hair at your roots and dry one at the tips). In that case cosmetologists suggest a new haircut.

It is obligatory to pay attention on the detergent. Which one is better you can see in the beginning of the article.

If you like the shampoo but it is not suitable for you try not to experiment with it.

If the hair is damaged (after the hairdressing) you should use shampoos with pH 4.5-5.5

Stuff4Beauty.Com Hair Products Your Premere Salon Connection!

How to Make Your Own Beauty Products

Few of life?s luxuries lift our spirits and promote our self-esteem as effectively as beauty products. This feel good factor more often than not comes with a hefty price tag attached to it. Add the words ?organic?, ?natural? or ?herbal? to the label and the cost is higher still. Or is it? Beauty products need not be costly. You can achieve professional results at home on a shoestring budget.

Skin care products are among the most popular beauty treatments. From cleansers to toners to lotions, the more they claim to do the more expensive they generally are. Many of the store bought products often contain toxic substances, many of which are synthetically derived from petrochemicals. These ingredients have the potential for causing cancer, birth defects, central nervous system disorders, allergic respiratory reactions, and skin and eye irritations. Many chemicals found in cosmetics don't cause immediate visible signs of toxicity, but affect our health negatively over time through repeated use.

Making your own beauty products saves you money and ensures complete control over the ingredients. This is especially useful if you have sensitive or allergic skin. It is surprisingly simple to achieve excellent results with relatively little effort and expenditure. Many every day food items such as honey, eggs, cucumber, fruits, and others have been used as beauty enhancers for centuries. Eggs are very versatile. To tone and tighten skin, apply a beaten egg white to your face and rinse it off after it dries. To remove excess oil, whip an egg yolk and mix it with six tablespoons of honey to make a peel off mask. Masking is the oldest of all the beauty arts. Masks rejuvenate and revitalize skin by removing accumulated dead skin cells and restoring normal epidermal function. Regular use of a facial mask tightens pores and stimulates the circulation of blood to the face, thereby bringing oxygen and other essential nutrients to the skin.

Honey is a natural anti-bacterial agent and moisturizer. It contains trace minerals and amino acids which are beneficial to skin and hair. It may be used on the face as a mask (clover honey is recommended for dry skin, while oily and combination skin benefits from orange blossom honey) and on hair as a conditioning treatment to add shine and moisture. For a honey hair rinse, combine one teaspoon of honey with four cups of warm water and one drop of your favourite essential oil or perfume. Apply this mixture to freshly washed hair and let air dry.

For a refreshing facial, pour boiling water over dried chamomile flowers in a bowl and inhale, holding your face a few inches above the water. You can even use the left over liquid to rinse your hair with afterwards. Apart from the benefits to your skin, this treatment also has health benefits for nose, throat and lungs and is especially beneficial for colds and bronchial infections.

For an all over beauty treatment, add half a cup of powdered milk to a tub full of hot water. It acts as a skin softener. For added benefit and relaxation, add a muslin bag filled with your favourite herbs to the bath. For a soothing effect, try chamomile flowers or rose flowers. Basil, bay, rosemary, or thyme have an energizing effect. Sage and strawberry leaves relieve muscle aches and painful joints. A handful of oatmeal and two teaspoons of sea salt make an invigorating body scrub.

Massage has a relaxing effect on the body and the mind. It loosens tension and blockages and stimulates blood circulation and the lymphatic system, which plays an important role in the body?s immune system. Massage oils consists of a carrier oil (or oil blend) to which essential oils are added. Carrier oils are vegetable oils used to dilute the concentrated essential oils. They help to slow down the evaporation of the essential oils and help absorb them into the skin. For maximum benefit, ?extra virgin? or cold pressed vegetable oils should be used. Popular carrier oils include sweet almond, grape seed, sunflower, sesame, wheat germ, olive and peanut oil. Nut allergy sufferers are advised to avoid nut based oils. Jojoba oil is a very popular oil due to its nutritional properties. Its structure is very close to human sebum so it is easily absorbed. Jojoba oil allows the skin to breathe, unlike other oils. It nourishes the skin and moisturizes it at the same time. Jojoba is actually a liquid wax, not an oil.

Making your own beauty products saves you money and let's you be in control over what goes onto your skin. Even better, it?s easy and fun. Happy mixing!

Katharina Bishop is a freelance writer. She is the owner of Wondrous Gems, a business specializing in crystals and designer jewelry. http://www.wondrousgems.com

Lanolin for Dummies Benefits of Lanolin

Lanolinn.Fatty substance obtained from wool. [German : from Latin lana (wool) + oleum (oil)

Wool oil, also referred to as ?wool grease? and ?wool fat?, originates as a unique substance, similar to wax, secreted from special glands in sheep?s skin. This substance migrates to the wool and offers natural protection to the animal against harsh weather and climatic conditions.

Wool oil is washed from the sheep?s wool during the scouring (cleaning) process. This takes place after the sheep has been shorn (similar to us having a haircut), a completely harmless process that takes place once a year meaning this natural wool fibre a renewable resource.

The raw oil obtained through the scouring process is then refined into lanolin, an organic, non-toxic, non-hazardous, biodegradable product. Pure lanolin contains less than 3 parts per million of all impurities. The lanolin used in the production of our Lanocreme skin care range is considered to be more pure than most foods we consume. The chemical make up of lanolin is fascinating, demonstrating nature?s ability to create a protective coating which, to this day, chemists have been unable to duplicate in performance or composition.

Lanolin is entirely safe and included in all medical pharmacopoeias and the EEG Cosmetics Directive Second Amendment, which allows lanolin to be used freely in cosmetics without restriction.

Lanolin plays a major role in the production of our Lanocreme range of skin care products due to its well-deserved reputation of being the ultimate natural substance that gives a soothing and moisturizing effect when applied to the skin. Lanolin closely resembles the oil produced by our own oil glands and is easily absorbed by the outer, protective layer of our skin reducing excessive moisture loss and thereby restoring softness and elasticity.

Kim Bright has over 15 years experience with skin care products, having been involved in extensive market research throughout that time. She is currently employed as a marketing/customer services representative for Lanocorp Pacific Ltd who have been in the business of producing and distributing Lanolin based skin care products since 1987.

Creating a Holiday Look Gold or Silver with a Kiss of Red

Is there a special occasion or a formal get-together in your near-future? Consider some silver or gold sparkle with a ?kiss? of red.

For your event, cleanse and moisturize your face thoroughly. Wait a moment for the moisturizer to be absorbed and then remove any excess. *Tip* ? Coverage (foundation, etc.) goes on more evenly over well-hydrated than dry skin. If necessary, use concealer on dark circles and blemishes. *Trick* ? Squeeze concealer in the palm of your hand to warm it and then mix it with foundation for more consistent color. Apply foundation either on specific areas to even out skin tone or all over your face. (Blend any foundation carefully with the surrounding skin so there are no noticeable lines.) *Trick* ? ?Set? the foundation with loose powder for longer lasting wear. *Trick* ? Getting fine lines? Try a face primer; it fills in fine lines and, followed with foundation, makes skin appear smoother.

For fun, decide whether to enhance your eyes or lips. You want to draw attention to one set of features but not both at the same time.

If you want the focus to be on your eyes, you can dramatize them with one, two or three colors. Opting for a single color? Choose a silver or gold, whichever blends with your skin tone and complements your outfit. *Tip* ? Silvers and grays are cool colors while golds are usually warm and less aging. *Trick* ? Use an eye color cream or an eye primer with eye color for longer wear (a real plus when you?re out). You can mix both a cream or powder eye color with the eye primer. Apply your choice of silver or gold from eye lashes to brows.

Prefer more than one color? Select one as a mid-tone (over the eyelids). Add either silver or gold as an accent (lashes to creases of eyes). Highlight (under the brow bones) with whichever you haven?t used as an accent. *Trick ? mix the mid-tone color with either silver or gold for an extra ?pop.? *Tip* ? Sparkle emphasizes fine lines so, if it?s a concern, just add sparkly color under the brow bones.

Define your eyes with eye liner only if it makes them appear larger. If your eye shadow is predominantly golden, consider a gold or brown liner. If your eye shadow is mainly silver, try a gray or black liner. *Trick* ? Lining the lower lids seems to draw the eyes down. If signs of aging are a concern, concentrate on the upper lids.

Curl your eye lashes. *Tip* ? Curling the lashes gives the impression of more open (wider) eyes. Follow with a mascara that meets your needs for lengthening or widening lashes. *Tip* ? Brown tends to be softer and less aging while black is more dramatic.

Don?t forget your eyebrows; they help frame your face. Darken your eyebrows with either a matching brow liner or, for a softer touch, a brow powder or powder eye shadow. *Tip* ? You can also brush your eye brows and set them with a clear gel.

Put on cheek color to emphasize your cheek bones. *Tip* ? Either pat the color on the high points of your cheek bones or start roughly two fingers away from your nose and sweep the color up to your temples.

If you want the focus to be on your lips, tone down the eye makeup and consider a red lip shade. There?s a red for everyone. Let your skin tone determine which reds are most becoming: those with cool undertones berries) or warm undertones (corals). Then choose muted or bright, matte or shimmer depending upon the look you want to achieve. Lip liner and lip gloss are optional.

For softer lips to complement dramatic eyes, try a subdued red. Then razzle dazzle! You?ve created a special holiday look.

? Copyright 2005. Charlotte Maddox. All rights reserved.

Charlotte is an experienced independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Inc.

Register on Charlotte's Mary Kay Inc. web site to receive a monthly email newsletter, Beaut-e-News(tm), with tips & techniques and a seasonal mailing of The Look catalog with free samples plus the latest in skin care and color looks (complete privacy ensured).

http://www.marykay.com/charlottemaddox

Hair Removal by Waxing Hot and Cold Waxes

Waxing is an effective method of removing large amounts of hair at one time. With hot waxing, a thin layer of heated wax is applied to the skin in the direction of the hair growth. The hair becomes embedded in the wax as it cools and hardens. The wax is then pulled off quickly in the opposite direction of the hair growth, taking the uprooted hair with it. Cold waxes work similarly. Strips precoated with wax are pressed on the skin in the direction of the hair growth and pulled off in the opposite direction. The strips come in different sizes for use on the eyebrows, upper lip, chin, and bikini area.

Waxing is a temporary method of hair removal which removes the hair at the root. New hairs do not grow back in the waxed area for three to eight weeks. Almost any area of the body can be waxed, including eyebrows, face, bikini area, legs, arms, back, abdomen and feet'. But don't be fooled into thinking that waxing is for women only. Today's fashion trends have men waxing their bodies for cosmetic reasons, and many athletes such as bodybuilders and swimmers have been waxing for years.

The concept of waxing to remove bodily hair can be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt where the wives of Royalty and the well-to-do looked at hair removal as a way to remain young and forever beautiful. That concept continued throughout the world with the Greeks and Turks as well.

Most waxes are comprised of some proportional mixture of paraffin or beeswax, natural oils or fats, and a specially designed resin to help the wax adhere to the skin. Some brands of wax add Vitamin E or other supplements. If you think that you might want to try waxing, the first step, whether you are a male or female, is to decide if you want to use the 'hot' or 'cold' wax technique.

The hot wax method involves heating the wax to a comfortable temperature. A thin layer of wax is spread onto the area to be treated in the direction of the hair growth. Once the wax is cooled it is quickly torn off, in the opposite direction of the hair growth, and the hair is removed with it. With the cold wax process, strips of cloth are pre-coated with wax. You apply the strips to the area to be treated, rub the strips in the direction of hair growth, and then pull the strips off quickly in the opposite direction. Although hot waxing techniques are a bit more messy than cold wax ones, many people find that the hot wax gives better results.

Post Waxing Skin Treatment

You can apply a non-perfumed moisturizer to the treated area if you want to. Moisturizers that are fortified with Vitamin B and/or Aloe vera are also good. Avoid the following activities for at least 24 hours after waxing:

- Swimming

- Using a Spa or Hot Tub

- Sunbathing

- Applying perfume, aftershave or deodorant to the treated area

Always check to make sure that the hot wax is below scalding or burning temperature before applying. People with diabetes should consult a doctor before waxing. Never wax over sunburned skin or peeling skin, lesions or infections, moles, warts, skin abrasions, rashes, or varicose veins. Never wax the eyelashes, nose or ear hairs, nipple hair, or hair which is growing directly on the genitals (bikini area is okay). Waxing is a great solution for the temporary removal of unwanted hair if you're tough enough to stand a little pain. Some hair removal experts recommend professional waxing for the best results.

Copyright 2005. Bridget Mwape writes for the Chemist's UK Website at: http://www.chemist-uk.org.uk/ and she's also a regular contributor to the Discount Pharmacy Website at http://www.discount-pharmacy-online.org.uk