Acne(Pimple) Tips

Acne is a common problem faced by almost all teen-agers and youth. What is acne and why do we get them. Acne is actually caused because of hormone imbalance. Your skin breaks out because of a hormone called testosterone. Both men and women have testosterone in their systems. In fact, did you know that in order to make testosterone, boys bodies have to make female hormones first? If you have acne, you haven't got abnormal levels of testosterone. You've got skin that reacts abnormally to this hormone. You start producing testosterone around the time you start sprouting body hair. Testosterone tells glands in your skin, called sebaceous glands, to produce oily stuff called sebum. To add to the problem the inside of the tubes that hold each hair become gummy and get partially blocked - giving you blackheads. Put together if sebum blocks the tubes --- you have big acne.
So go to your pharmacist or doctor to get your acne treated. Here are a few tips that will help you know how to treat acne at home.

1. If you have red angry looking acne, don't touch it. If you squeeze now, all you'll do is force the contents deeper into the skin that will make matters worst. And all you'll end up with is redder, angrier acne than you had before. Don't do it.
   
2. If you have a yellow custard top? Go for it. These beauties CAN be squeezed but there's an art to it. Here's how. Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid trouble and infection. Put a tissue over your finger. Why? Because you want the contents of the spot on the tissue, not splattered all over the mirror. Using the side of your thumb and the end of your finger, very gently start to squeeze. Don't whatever you do, use your nails as this will damage your skin. Stop when you're applying a lot of pressure and nothing is happening and you see clear fluid, rather than yellow grotty stuff and the spot begins to bleed. When you've finished dab it with antiseptic. Once the custard bit is out, the spot will heal more quickly than an unsqueezed yellow top would, providing that you now leave it well alone. Now wash your hands again.
   
3. Whiteheads and blackheads. If acne is left untreated they may cause this problem. Here the rule is if they're black, squeeze but if they're small, white raised lumps leave them alone. All that stuff about clean hands, tissues and stopping if nothing is happening or you see blood, apply here too.

- Tips for acne treatment -

1. DON'T TRY TO WASH IT AWAY -
   Acne isn't caused by dirt. In fact people with oily skin have cleaner skin than average because they wash it more often. But it's a fact that washing too much can make acne worse because it makes the skin dry and sore. So, wash no more than twice a day, using mild soap and water. If you have patches of dry skin, don't worry about putting moisturizer on. It won't make your acne worse. If you're still concerned, use an oil free moisturizer.
   
   
2. DON'T NUKE 'EM -
   There are lots of over the counter creams, gels, lotions and potions. Most contain a powerful bleaching agent called benzoyl peroxide. You'll find the strength written on the label. You might be tempted to go straight for the highest sort, working on the 'let's nuke 'em principle. The likely result is that you'll irritate your skin like mad. It may also go all dry and scaly on you. But if you still are willing to bleach then use the mild one.
   
   
3. MAKE A DATE - THE TWO MONTH RULE -
   If you have been using over the counter remedies for two months and there is no real improvement in your spots, this is the moment to go and make an appointment with your doc.
   
   
4. YOUR DOCTOR - THE TWO MONTH RULE -
   The thing you are most likely to be given by the doctor is a prescription for antibiotics. These will either be topical (which means something you put on your skin) or tablets you have to take every day. Whatever treatment your doctor or pharmacist recommends, follow the instructions carefully and keep using for at least two months. There should be a noticeable improvement by this time. If not, go back to discuss other possible treatments Antibiotics are perfectly safe to take. You should take them for at least two months and then go back to your doc. If they seem to be working, he will probably tell you to keep taking them and give you some more. If they aren't doing their stuff, don't despair - he has loads of other spot busters in his black bag.
   
   
5. YOU ARE NOT AN ALIEN - BUT JUST BE PATIENT -
   Hundreds of thousands of teenagers seek help for acne. You are not alone. You are not an alien. And if people really care about you, they don't even notice your acne, however bad you think they are. But you will need to be patient. Most treatments take time to work. At least two months. And some treatments, like antibiotics will work well but may have to be taken for months, or even years.
   
   
6. THE MONTHLY CURSE OR EXAMS -
   Acne does tend to get worse just before a period. It's because there is a surge in hormone levels at this time. But boys don't get away lightly either. Being hot and sweaty (particularly after sports like football) makes acne worse. And for everyone, stress - particularly at exam times - is a cue for a mega breakout. This is normal - and of course, even more reason for feeling stressed. Go chill. They'll get better - promise.
   
   
7. WATCH WHAT YOU PUT ON YOUR SKIN AND HAIR -
   Some beauty products are big no-nos. These include pomades and defrizzing agents for hair that tend to cause an outcrop of blackheads along the hairline and some of the heavier cosmetics. And be wary of suntan oils. Not all will make you break out, but some may. Try a friend's first before you buy. By the way, the sun might dry up acne and a tan might hide them, but your skin is still vulnerable in the sun and needs protection.
   
   
8. CARRY ON KISSING -
   You can't catch acne during kissing - go for it!
   
   
9. CARRY ON EATING CHOCOLATE -
   It's a myth that eating chocolate and fried foods causes acne. However, eating a good diet improves your general well-being and this is reflected in your skin.

- Common Questions asked about acne problem -

• Does wearing make up cause acne?
  It is not necessary that wearing make up causes acne. Acne is caused because of hormonal imbalance mostly during puberty. But you have to take special care while you apply make up and thereafter if you have acne. Make sure you wash any make up tools, including sponges and brushes as often as possible as these become a breeding ground for bugs which can cause your spots to pop up. Stop wearing make up if you have too many spots and you can resume after you have treated them. Don't forget to clean the make up after you come home and and make sure you cleanse your face properly each night.
  
  
• Do skin toner and moisturizer cure acne?
  One thing that you need to know is acne is not caused by dirt, so no amount of cleaning and toning is going to get rid of them. So for treating acne you must consult your doctor and eat lots of healthy food and drink lots of water. That is the natural way to keep you face spot free.
  
  
• Is it ok to do facial?
  It can be a real treat to have the facial done, as they can be very relaxing and make you feel properly pampered. However, you should be aware that they should not be used to help 'treat' spots, as this can be quite dangerous if the beauty therapist is not trained. Sometimes a beauty therapist will also squeeze out any spots and blackheads that if it's not done properly, may cause a bigger problem than before.
  
  
• What is the best way to cover up spots?
  Foundation is okay to use and may give you more confidence if you've got a hot date, but remember to look for oil-free one. Whatever you use to put on your skin, wash your hands or sponge before applying foundation.

Miscellaneous Tips

Fragrance Dos and Donts :

• DO wear more perfume if you have dry skin. Scent needs oils to last.
• DO wear stronger scents in cold weather. Cold reduces a scent's strength.
• DO wait ten minutes before deciding to buy a new scent.
• DON'T use deodorant soap where perfume is applied.
• DON'T use perfume near pearl or costume jewelry. The alcohol in perfumes can cause pearls to yellow and can strip the coating off jewelry.
• DON'T sample more than two or three new scents at a time. Your olfactory senses will become confused.

Face mask treatments :

• MAYONNAISE. Apply whole egg mayonnaise on your face (right from the jar) for about 20 minutes. Rinse with cool water.
• PEACH & BRANDY. Mash up a peach (use ripe, canned or frozen) and mix in a tablespoon of brandy. Leave it on for 20 minutes, then rinse off.
• TOMATO MASK. For oily skin, mash up a ripe tomato and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm (not hot) water.
  

For a rosy face :
These are homemade treatments that will put a rosy glow on your face.

• Boil fresh rose petals and use this rose water instead of plain water for your skin treatments.
• Prepare a rose facemask by grinding a handful of petals into a paste. Apply on clean skin and leave the application on for 15 to 25 minutes. Then wash with plain water (no soap). Your complexion will be smooth and glowing.
  
  

Another Use For a Makeup Brush :
Take a CLEAN makeup brush and use it to clean all the dust and whatever else seems to get caught in between the keys of your keyboard.

Applying Blush :
Blush can be a nightmare for some. Just where exactly does it go? Well, in a nutshell, here goes. You look for the fullest part of your cheek and thats where your blush goes. Take your blush brush and sweep the color back toward the temple. Its that simple. Now, here is a little trick. Once you have your blush in place, take a cotton ball and blend until you have just a hint of natural looking color. Subtle is the key word here. No strips of color please.

Glycerin- What Is It? :
Glycerin is used in cosmetics to hold moisture against the skin and prevent dryness. The amount contained in a product should not be more than 20%.

The Right Frames for You :
1. If you have an oval face, just about any shape of frames will flatter your face.
2. If you have a round face, choose frames that are angular (rectangle in shape).
3. If you have a diamond shape face, choose frames that are oval in shape.
4. If you have a triangle shape face, choose frames that are as wide as your jawline snf angle out slightly at the top corners of the glasses.
5. If you have a square face, choose oval shaped glasses.
6. If you have a long face, choose frames that resemble an inverted triangel shape.

Wrinkling Around The Eyes :
There is one very good reason why wrinkling seems to occur here very quickly. One is the fact that there are no oil glands located around the eyes and the second... is the fact that all the facial expressions that you make raises the cheekbones and in turn contributes to crowsfeet and more. To combat this, start applying a good moisturizer in the eye area at an early age.

Nail Tips

Quick and easy tips :
Everyone wants nails to be proud of so if yours are less than perfect here are a few quick tips to get them in great condition in no time.

Apply nail varnish remover before doing your nails even if don’t need to remove any old polish, it prepares the nails by removing any grease so that your polish will last longer.

When you are in a rush:
When you are in a rush, decisions have to be made. Prioritize. Do you shape or polish? Do you quick-dry or go the long, slow route? New formulas allow for snap decisions

Speed-dry enamels are worthy of their name (you can open mail, search for keys, or put on your tightest long-sleeved shirt within seconds), but there's a downside: "As fast as they dry, that's as fast they chip," insists manicurist Elisa Ferri, so save them for emergencies. Eke a few extra days out of a fast-dry manicure by doing a daily touch-up with a quick-drying coat.


What to do about brittle nails :
The most common nail wreckers are harsh detergents and water, which can stress nail fibers. So be sure to put rubber gloves on while you clean or do dishes.

Also, avoid using perfume lotions that usually contain alcohol if your nails are brittle. It will only make your nails worse.

After Polishing? :
After you've finished your polish application, don't stop there. Now is the perfect time to give yourself a hand massage. Use a rich hand cream and slather it on using circular movements until it is absorbed. Don't forget that our hands are constantly exposed and need constant attention.

Beauty Recipe For Soft Hands :

1/4 cup sugar

enough lemon juice to make a paste.
Combine the sugar and juice and then scoop a small amount into your hand. Massage for a minute or so and then rinse hands with warm water. Hands will feel velvety smooth. While still damp, slather on hand cream.
Sugar paste can be stored in the refrigerator and used when required.

Best Time To Moisturize Your Hands :
One of the best times to moisturize your hands is right after your bath. Your hands are more receptive at this time as the pores are open and will readily absorb the cream/lotion.

Color of Your Nails :
Did you know that the color of your nails can indicate health problems? If your nails are:

1. half pink and half white... it could indicate kidney failure
2. yellow... could point to diabetes, fungal infection or even heart disease
3. black flecks... an injury to the nail or a blood clotting disorder
4. black or blue spots... an injury to the nail
5. green... fungal or bacterial infection
6. white... anemia
7. white spots... trauma to the nail bed.

Enemies of Your Nails :
Sun, chlorine and harsh cleaning products can make your nails brittle. Get into the habit of using a sunblock when outside and gloves when you are inside. Always use a good moisturizer on your hands on a regular basis.

Enhancing Nail Growth :
Rub the fingernails from one hand across the other hand as if you were buffing them. Do this a few times a day for about 5 minutes to enhance nail growth. This is a form of reflexology.

Finger Massage :
Using four fingers from the opposite hand, start at the top of the finger and knead your way down to the tip of each finger. Feels wonderfully relaxing.

Foods That Will Help Your Nails :
Foods that are rich in iron, calcium, vitamin B and potassium are as good for your nails as they are for the rest of your body. They include soy products, celery, yogurt, eggs and seafood too.

Hand Massage :
To stimulate circulation, rub your palm over the back of the hand and repeat with other hand. This movement is very similiar to washing your hands and it does not only stimulate circulation, it also warms the hands.

Is This What Your Nails Are Craving? :
If your nails are weak, splitting, fragile etc, the problem could be traced back to an inadequate water intake. Most people don't drink nearly enough.

Keeping Your Hands Gorgeous :
Get accustomed to using rubber gloves whenever you do housework or a little gardening. It doesn't take very long to get a sunburn or a callus.

Nail Growth :
The speed of nail growth is increased if you enjoy a healthy diet. It's a proven fact. Illness however, can slow it down.

Nail Growth and Foods :
If you want faster growing nils, be sure that your diet is rich in Vitamins A, B-Complex, C, D, E and iron, calcium, zinc, sulfur, and the essential fatty acids.

Nail Polish Bottle Tips :

1. can be stored in the fridge.
2. can be thinned with a polish thinner. This is not polish remover.
3. coat the cap with a little cream to prevent sticking.

Nail Polish Remover :
Try to limit the use to as infrequently as possible. It is very drying to the nail and the skin surrounding it.

Nails and Dishwashing :
Try to get into the habit of using gloves and as an extra benefit, rub on a little handcream first. The heat from the hot water helps in the absorption process.

Polident For Your Nails? :
We have heard about whitening yellowed nails with the use of a polident tablet. Apparently soaking the nails for fifteen minutes in a warm water bath with one tablet once a week, will whiten them up.

Polish Remover Tips :
Moisten a cotton ball and press against the center of your nail for a few seconds and then pull it downward, away from the cuticle. Repeat until the entire nail is clean, repeating procedure on both sides of the nail.

Right Shape For Your Nails :
The classic oval shape is most flattering but it really depends on the shape of your fingers and hands.

Saving The Nails :
It is really easy to pick up some bad habits. The worst are using your nails as tools. A few years ago when phones had dials, it was a really hard on your nails but everyone did it. Luckily, punching in the numbers as long as you use the pads of your fingers is much easier on the nails. Start watching how you use your nails so that you can drop these habits.

Shaping The Nail :
File in one direction - from the corner to the center. Filing in all directions will only weaken the nails.

Slugs and Hand Care :
Chafing of the skin can be relieved with the slime of a slug. So, what do you do? Put the slug on the sore area of your hand and let it crawl around. Once the section has been slimed, you can then let the slug go!

Soft Hands :
Before you go to bed, lavish on the Vaseline and then pop on a pair of cotton gloves. Hands will be incredibly soft by morning.

Storing Nail Polish :
Don't store polish in a warm place as the polish will change consistency. But it is, a good idea to store it in the refrigerator.

The Corners of Your Nails :
The corner of your nails should never be filed. Doing so, will weaken the nail and you will find that they will break more easily as a result.

The Use of a Base Coat :
The use of a basecoat is important. It not only protects the nail but prevents the staining of the nail from brightly colored polishes. It will also help your polish to last longer.

Tiny Nails :
The size of your nails are inherited and there is little that you can do BUT, you can make them appear larger by filing them into an elongated oval. That means no squared off edges. Pale, frosty shades also help with this illusion by not drawing attention to the edges.

Uses For Empty Nail Polish Bottles :
Fill the clean bottle with vegetable oil and paint your nails and cuticles several times a day.

Vitamin A and Your Nails :
If your nails are constantly peeling, snapping or generally just not up to parr, look to your diet. It could be that there is an insufficient amount of Vitamin A in the foods you eat.

Water And Your Hands :
Get into the habit of wearing rubber gloves when you do any cleaning around the house. Cleaning agents can be extremely harsh on both nails and hands. The nails when exposed to water, swell and then shrink back as they dry. This contributes to brittle nails.

What Do Black Lines Mean? :
Black lines in your nails if you are Caucasian could signify malignant melanoma. Check with your doctor.

White Spots on the Nails :
If you have white spots appearing on your nails, they are more than likely, calcium deposites. They are usually caused by banging the nail surface.

Winter Nail Care :
This time of year, it is especially important to protect your nails. ALWAYS wear gloves outside ( I know that it can be a pain) and your favorite moisturizer too and don't forget the nails, cuticles and the hands while applying.

You Can Encourage Nail Growth :
All you have to do is massage your favorite cream into your cuticle area, the nail and the fingertips. This will soften the skin and as an added bonus, encourage your nails to grow. Do this as often as you like.

Skin Care Tips

How To Fight Against Wrinkles :
How you choose to treat wrinkles and other signs of aging depends on what stage of your life you're at.When wrinkles are just beginning to appear, sunblock is the best course of action. At that stage, skin can still repair itself, and wearing sunscreen regularly will prevent further damage and help the skin regenerate itself. An alpha-hydroxy acid product is also a good idea, because it will lightly exfoliate the dulling layer of dead skin and give it a smoother, clearer look.

Dark circles around the eyes :
Use a concealer, go to bed a little earlier than normal, try raising your top of your bed (for sinus problems), cold compresses and plenty of fibrous food in your diet. At last resort, lasers can help take care of the pigmentation problem.

Foot Blisters :
Apparently you have to squeeze a little of the white liquid of the dandelion onto the blister and then cover it with a bandage

Caution:
Only use dandelions that have not been sprayed with pesticides and if this liquid causes any discomfort, wash it off immediately. You could have a skin sensitivity to the substance.

The importance of Vitamin C :
Have you noticed that Vitamin C is used in many skin care products?

Why? It helps in the formation of collagen (the skin's support fibres).Does it work? It varies from person to person, but many people report that their skin's texture seems to be improving.

Usually you have to wait so long to see improvement in your skin's texture. Not so apparently with Vitamin C.

Dehydrated Skin :
Winter months can often mean centrally heated home containing little moisture.

To solve this problem, invest in a humidifier or even place bowls of water around your home. It doesn't take a lot to put moisture back into your environment, you simply have to remember to do it.

Are You Using Shaving Foam? :
Did you know that shaving foams leave an air space between the skin and the foam? This causes a dragging of the razor and could be the reason that you are noticing irritation and even ingrown hair.

Blotchiness :
Have you been plagued with skin blotches, appearing out of no where and have no idea what is causing them? They just simply be hives. Here are some of the things that can cause them... allergies, change in temperature, emotional stress, food, medications or skin infections. If your blotches appear and then disappear... it just could be hives.

Brown Spots :
They have also been known as liver spots, but this is totally incorrect. These spots that often appear on the back of the hands are caused by sunlight exposure or chronic bruising of the skin. There are lots of bleaches that can be purchased from cosmetic firms or you can make some of your own. Sorrel leaves that have been chopped, placed inside a gauze compress and applied for 10 minutes a day have been known to lighten the spots. Repeat every three days.

Exercise And It's Benefits To The Skin :
Exercise brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin so that it is firmer and better nourished. It is also thought to slow down aging.

Exercise and Skin Care :
We all know how important it is to exercise but did you know that it also benefits the appearance of your skin. It increases circulation which delivers nutrients AND allows for a restful sleep which gives the skin the chance to rejuvinate.

Makeup and Gyms :
Never go to the gym with makeup on. When you sweat, it will have all that makeup to get thru and clog up your pours. It is even worse if you can't wash your face for a few hours for some reason.

Masks :
A clay mask dries on the skin. It will soak up oil, draw out impurities and tighten pores. You will find ingredients such as corn or wheat starch, charcoal or titanium dioxide. This kind of mask can be applied all over the face or just in the T- Zone where the skin is the oiliest.

Oil Based Moisturizer vs. Water Based Moisturizers :
During the winter months, especially during extreme temperatures, avoid using a water based moisturizer and choose a oil based instead. The water based variety can literally freeze on your skin.

Oily Skin and How To Care For It :
If you have oily skin, cleanse only two or three times at the very most with a product made for your skin type. Washing more often will only strip the skin of oil which simply revs up the oil glands to replace it. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and then finish off with a toner/ astringent to on the oily areas of your skin. The astringent can be used throughout the day to help control the excess oil that appears.

Oily Skin and How To Care For It :
If you have oily skin, cleanse only two or three times at the very most with a product made for your skin type. Washing more often will only strip the skin of oil which simply revs up the oil glands to replace it. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and then finish off with a toner/ astringent to on the oily areas of your skin. The astringent can be used throughout the day to help control the excess oil that appears.

Refrigerating Your Lotions :
Playing under the hot sun can do a number on your skin, so don't forget to moisturize your skin as often as you can and to make it feel even better, refrigerate it. It will cool you down in an instant.

Shaving and Your Razor Blade :
The blade should ALWAYS be sharp even if it means changing it at least once a week.

Skin Care Tips :
Here are a few things you can do to care for the skin that you were born with.

avoid stress as much as you are able.
stay out of the sun.
don't smoke. This does nasty things to your skin
drink lots of water
get lots of sleep
be sure to clean your skin properly
eat lots of fruit and vegetables.

Skincare For Those In Their Thirties :
Start relaxing right now. If you can successfully manage your stress, it will mean less wrinkles in the future.

Sun and Aging :
Did you ever notice that it is always the face and the hands that age the fastest? That's because of the exposure to sunlight. To prevent this, STAY OUT OF THE SUN. If you must, apply a good sun block, but it won't completely protect you from the aging process. Staying out of the sunshine is the only answer. In fact, studies have shown that 90% of the aging process can be traced back to exposure to the sun.

What You Eat And Oily Skin :
Fill your diet with raw fruits and vegetables as these foods are beneficial to those with oily, blemished prone skin. Avoid animal fats and dairy products as they have a tendency to aggravate the condition.

Mascara Tips

Mascara Tip About Application Technique :
I do upper lashes first and wait until they are dry before adding mascara to the lower lashes. I use the tip of the brush and run across lashes twice. On the third time I brush them out holding the brush horizontally.

Mascara Tip About Cleaning Your Wand and More :
Does your wand ever get clumpy and hard to apply mascara with? Just take a little Vaseline and coat the wand and wipe off the extra mascara that is clumped on there and hard. Water won't work and using soap may irritate your eyes. The vaseline should remove all extra and won't irritate your eyes.

Mascara Tip About Her Favorite Brand :
When you apply mascara - always have a cotton bud handy. This way when it smudges above or below the eye, you can quickly and easily "erase" it before it dries. I can't imagine putting on mascara without one!

Mascara Tip About Mascara Application :
If your eyelashes aren't black, don't use black mascara.Always use a dark rown ect. Black makes them look fake.

Mascara Tip About Smudging :
Wear Mascara only on your top lashes and put eyeliner on your lower eyelashes. Put the eyeliner the inner side of your lashes and not the outer. Try not to use water-proof mascara because it's harder to take off. Use a good mascara which comes with a handle that comes with thin bristles so your lashes can be easily separted yet has that rich look into it.

Mascara Tip No.1 :
The only reason I don't like mascara is that it tends to look very bad on most people. It clumps, and makes your lashes way thick, and looks totally unnatural. I can understand using it if you have light lashes, but if yours are brown or black, there's no need for it. It simply makes you look made-up, and that's way out now.

Mascara Tip on Removal :
Don't forget to wash it off! I usually don't wear mascara, but once I wore it for several days straight, and on the last one, my lashes were so coated that they looked fake!

Tip for Gorgeous Lashes :
I couldn't apply mascara without using my mascara toothbrush as a final separator and declumper.

Why She Doesn't Like Mascara :
After searching high and low and reading everything I could find, is to try Max Factor 2000 Calorie. It isn't clumpy, it darkens (even soft black looks exotic!) and lengthens without looking messy, and it doesn't rub off!!! and it was under $5.00 at Walmart...what a deal!

LipStick Tips

Lipbalm and Lip Lining Pencil Together :
If you have a lip lining pencil that is rather hard, try using it over lips that have been prepared with a good coating of lipbalm. The pencil will color the lips easily and has lasting power as well. (And don't simply line them, color your entire lips with the pencil).

How to adjust your lips:
Make Small Lips Look Larger - Apply a little vaseline or lip gloss to the middle of the bottom lip, which brings the lips out, making them look larger.

Make Large Lips Look Smaller - Use the deeper colors in your palette (deep color makes the lips recede), and stick to a matte formula; keep away from shiny glosses.

Cosmetic Tips :
You have spotted a gorgeous shade of lipstick on a model in a magazine and you instantly run out and buy it. You spend a small fortune on the color and when you get home, it looks terrible on you. The lipstick was a complete waste of money. To avoid this trap, make an appointment at one of those cosmetic salons that will assist you in your color choices. That's their job afterall! Let them suggest colors to you, try them out and if you like it, then you buy. It's as simple as that.

Don't Forget The Lips :
You do your face in the morning and then you are out the door. How do you look by 11 am? You lipcolor is probably gone so get into the habit of touching it up several times a day. Nothing makes you look more washed out than dull lips. Some women need the color. Trust me... I actually look healthier when I have color on my face.

Getting your Lips Ready For Summer :
Dry cracked lips is not something that you want this summer. It's easy to get your lips ready for summer with just toothbrush and a little vaseline. Brush the lips gently and the be sure that you don't ingest any of the product.

Lip Lines :
If you have tiny lines in your lips that you would like to make less noticeable, here's the trick to try. Instead of applying your lipstick horizontally, apply it vertically.

Lipstick and Feathering Lines :
As we age, tiny lines around our mouth start to show up making lipstick application more tricky. Within hours you will notice that the color has started to creep up these lines. If this is happening to you, try this. Before you begin, pat the lips with translucent powder and then line them with a pencil. Be sure to smudge the line!! There is nothing worse that SEEING this line. It's there to hold the lipstick in place. Once that is done, fill in the lips with color, preferably the same color or one very close to the liner color. Pat once more with translucent powder and you are done. Your lipstick should be set for most of the day.

Lipstick Changes Color? :
Have you noticed this happening to you? The reason is the acidity of your skin which causes dark toned lips. If you have brown toned lips, stay away from the blue toned lipsticks. The lipsticks in the brown tones will hold their natural color more so than a pink or blue toned shades. Your best colors will be beiges, peaches, apricots etc.

Lipstick Everywhere :
Mary Greenwell has cut back on all the different products available and uses lipstick on the cheeks, eyes and lips. I'm seeing this tip in lots of books lately. It's no longer a no-no!

Lipstick Formulations For Winter :
During the winter months, you might want to stay away from the lipsticks that claim that they are long lasting. Often they can dry your lips out and cold weather will do that fast enough. Instead look for creamy formulations

Lipstick Trivia :
Here is the little trivia about lipstick/lipbalm. In 1904, a perfumed lip salve would have cost you 25 cents and would've been packaged in an aluminum case. By 1908, it was okay for women to apply lipstick at the table during lunch at a restaurant. It was not okay to apply lipstick at dinner.

Lipstick Trivia :
Here is the little trivia about lipstick/lipbalm. In 1904, a perfumed lip salve would have cost you 25 cents and would've been packaged in an aluminum case. By 1908, it was okay for women to apply lipstick at the table during lunch at a restaurant. It was not okay to apply lipstick at dinner.

Mixing Lipstick Colors How-to :
Take one tube of red lipstick that you don't care for and mix in a little mauve lipstick. You will achieve a pretty fuchsia that will be easier to wear.

Pinks VS Peaches :
Leave your pinks in the drawer during the summer. Peach tinged lipcolors look terrific against bronzed skin.

Red Lipstick-- Yes, You Can Wear It :
This question has been sent to me a number of times so I thought that I would talk about ... Red Lipstick. I find that mixing up my own shades work best for me. I have tried lots of reds and I find the same thing. The shade just isn't right for me, most of the time it is just too bright for my skin tones. So, I tried experimenting with some of the colors I have and found that adding a little brown to my red worked. It still looks red but it tends to tone down the brightness. Experiment a little. You will have tons of fun and create signature colors that are all your own.If you manage to make/mix up the perfect color for yourself and you don't want to continue mixing your own color, take a sample to the mall with you and find a red that is as close as possible to the shade that you created.

Retractable Lip Brushes :
There are lots of different brushes on the market but a retractable brush has added features. If you are going out in the evening, pick up a little lipstick on the brush and then retract. When you need a touch up, the lipstick is already on the brush and waiting for the application.

Storing Your Gloss :
Did you know that if you store your gloss in the refrigerator, there is less chance for it to melt on your lips when you apply it. And on a hot summer day, it feels fabulous.

Want a Fuller Upper Lip? :
Outline the lips with a pencil that is the same shade as your lips. Now on the center of the upper lip, use a brown pencil and draw a second line. Apply lip color and the brown will blend right in... but your top lip will definitely look fuller.

Why a Lip Brush? :
Lip brushes allow you to use less lipstick but it also can be used to soften the line of your lip liner. With the brush, you can blend it right into the lipstick so that it is not visible.

Hair Tips

Change Hairstyle :
To add impact for the holidays, change your hairstyle. If you usually wear it down, wear it up. If you usually wear it up, let it down.

Glamour for Long Hair :
Add that extra touch of glamour to extra-bare party attire with long,smooth hair parted off tothe side. Apply a dollop of smoothing cream (like Redkin Straight) to damp hair before blow-drying it straight. Finish off with a dab of shine serum (like Matrix Biolage Shine Renewal).

Homemade Hair Spray :
Chop one lemon (or an orange for dry hair). Place in a pot with 2 cups water. Boil until half of the initial amount remains. Cool, strain, and place in a spray bottle. Store in the refrigerator.

If it is too sticky, add more water. Add one ounce rubbing alcohol as a preservative and then the spray can be stored for up to two weeks unrefrigerated.

Short Hairstyles :
To add impact to short hair, slick it back or curl and crush with fingers.

If Your Hair Is Wavy :
Lather up with a shine-enhancing shampoo and conditioner. Rinse well. Smooth and separate wet strands with wide-tooth comb, then spritz a silicone-based shine-enhancing spray from ends to roots.

Dry hair using a blowdryer with a tapered nozzle to direct air down the hair shaft and seal the cuticle.

A Bit About Leave In Conditioners :
Have you tried leave in conditioners? They are especially ideal if are pushed for time. The nice thing about them is that they won't weigh down your hair and even helps tame flyaway hair. It is also a good solution if the ends of your hair are extremely dry. Simply smooth a small amount of conditioner to the ends to help hydrate and protect. Your hair will even look better.

Are The Ends of Your Hair Frying? :
Cup the ends of your hair in your hands and direct the heat (set at cool) over your hands. Drying in this manner will prevent the air from hitting the dry fragile ends of the hair.

Before You Color Your Hair :
The week before you color you hair, be sure to really condition the ends so that they don't absorb too much color during the process. The ends of your hair tend to be the most porous and have a tendency to really soak up color.

Boost That Shine :
Once your hair is completely dry, finish it off with a cool blast to seal the cuticle. If the cuticle is ragged, no shine.

Condition Your Hair :
Conditioning is not a step you want to skip. It adds protection to your hair by coating each strand against wear and tear and offers added shine as well. By coating each strand, it offers easier detangling which will prevent your hair from breaking at this critical time.

Fine Hair and Conditioners :
Use conditioners sparingly so that you don't weigh down your hair. A medium size round brush and a volumizer will definitely make it look thicker.

Foods To Avoid For Healthy Hair :
To ensure that the hair that is forming beneath the surface of your scalp is healthy, there are a few foods that you should avoid and replace them with fresh fruits and vegetables. They include too many sweets, chocolate, cakes and cookies. Unfortunately, these favorites simply don't do a thing for your hair.

Gels For Your Hair :
If your hair has curl, a gel can be your best friend. Dry it to the stage where it is almost dry and then squeeze a little into your hand. Distribute it through your hair with your fingers and then scrunch it through your hair. Allow hair to completely dry and the gel will hold it in place. What is especially nice is the fact that you can reactivate it teh next day by misting your hair with water and scrunching again.

Going Red :
Your skin tones will play a big part in choosing the shade of red that you will choose. If you have olive skin tones, go for a cool red, while those with fair skin tones will look better with a red/orange cast to the color.

Growing Out Your Hair :
There are a few ways to gracefully grow out that cut. You can use a gel to help lift up the roots, you can use a hairband to get the hair off your face or change the lok of your bangs with a little help from a blow dryer and a round brush.

Hair Coloring At Home :
If you color your hair at home, always save the package that the product came in. It will provide you with important information on active ingredients an emergency hotline you can call if anything goes wrong. It will also remind you of the color name and number for purchasing the next time around.

Hair Drying and The Brush :
We all know how vulnerable our hair is while it is wet and using the brush can really do some damage. After you shampoo your hair, blot it dry with a towel and then try to detangle it with your fingers. Don't use the brush. This is the time when you can stretch the strands and weaken them to the point where they snap. The brush used on wet hair can also cause frizzing to occurr. Don't pick up the brush until your hair is somewhere between damp and dry and then it is okay to use the blow dryer and a round brush until it is styled and completely dry.

Hair Moisturizer Recipe :
That old fashioned mayonnaise (not the low cal variety) is a great moisturizer for your hair. Shampoo as usual and then apply about a tablespoon. Wrap your hair in a plastic shower cap for a half hour and then re-shampoo and rinse thoroughly.

Hair Style To Make Your Neck Look Longer :
Did you know that according to the hairstylest simply known as "Garren", a shag can make your neck look longer and your face look thinner.

Hair Tips :
Washing brushes should be done on a need to basis. They will collect natural oils from your hair as well as an assortment of styling products. A mild soap should be used and then the brush should be air dried. When the bristles start to soften, it's time for a new one.

How Diet Can Affect Your Hair :
The hair that you can see is already dead and there's nothing your diet can do to help this hair but the hair beneath the skin is still being nourished by the papilla. A good diet ensure healthy hairs being formed.

How Do I Shampoo Correctly? :
Pour about a tablspoon and a half into an empty shampoo bottle and then dilute with a little warm water. Give it a good shake. Shampoos are very concentrated and most of the time, we use too much.

Wet your hair thoroughly and then pour on a little of the diluted shampoo. Massage your scalp with the pads of your fingertips, not your nails. Be sure to pay attention to the hairline where makeup can collect.

Rinse well and then check for shampoo residue. It should be visible on your fingertips. If you notice traces of shampoo, continue rinsing.p>Add conditioner to your hair following instructions given on bottle. Rinse if required. Squeeze the water from your hair and then blot it dry. Don't rub because wet hair is very vulnerable and breakage can occur.

Keep Moving :
If you don't keep the blow dryer moving every few seconds, you can damage the cuticle and there goes your shine.

Let Your Brush Add Shine :
Use your blow dryer and a natural bristle brush to evenly distribute scalp oils. This will accentuate your hair's lustre.

Lock In That Curl :
Using your diffuser attachment, lean your head to one side and start scrunching your hair from the bottom to the (top all around your head) Finish off with a blast of cool air to lock in the curl. So simple a procedure but very effective.

Make Your Own Spray-On-Conditioner :
Here is a quick way to make your own spray on conditioner and it works just as well as the brands that are on the store shelves. All you have to do is mix 1 part of your favorite conditioner with 5 parts water. Pour it in an empty hair spray container and spritz it on instead. Tangles are gone and so is the frizz!.

My Hair is Falling Out :
If you find that suddenly your hair is falling out in handfulls, it would be a good idea to mention the fact to the doctor. There are a lot of factors that could be causing the problem which include hormones, stress, anemia, poor diet, pregnancy and genetic factors. This condition can also take place at menopause. Thyroid and Alopecia can also be reasons so be sure to have the condition looked at. We naturally lose about 100 hairs a day so if you are losing more than this, it is something that should be looked into.

Save The Outer Hair :
The blow dryer most often hits the outer layer of hair. to give it a break, bend over and dry your hair upside down. You can use any of the previous techniques given for blow drying.

SHAMPOO TIPS!! :
Shampooing your hair...there are some tricks!
never use hot water..use tepid
use about a quarter size amount of shampoo and massage it into your scalp from front to back
rinse..this should take between 3-5 minutes
apply conditioner from the ends of your hair up to the roots (not the other way around) and comb it gently through your hair
rinse another 3 minutes, followed by a blast of cool water to help seal
blot your hair dry, don't tousle...not good for your hair or the style.

Shine Up Your Hair :
Mash up an avocado with a tablespoon of olive oil and a tsp of baking powder. Mix until well combined and then work the mixture through your hair. Go and surf my site for 15 minutes and then wash out.

Simply Smooth :
Here is a quick way to shower, blowdry and come out with a sleek look. Roll the hair at the crown around one or two large rollers. Separate the rest of your hair into small sections and wrap your head, securing each section with a clip that does not leave ridges. Blowdry and then remove rollers and clips.

Swimming and Hair Care :
Always rinse your hair after swimming. The chlorine will not only dry out your hair but it will dull your color as well.

What A Good Style Should Do For You :
A really good style should promote your best feature... gorgeous eyes, good jaw line etc. It should also draw the eye away from a bad feature.

What is Hair Wax? :
Hair wax is a styling aid that is either a gum consistancy or that of paste. It is great for those styles that are freeform ringlets. Simply rub a little between your palms to warm up and then distribute through your hair. Now twist away. Bumble and Bumble makes such a product

Yanking Gray Hair :
Pulling out gray hairs will not contribute to more gray hairs. It will just be replaced with another one...gray too I'm afraid.
To ensure that the hair that is forming beneath the surface of your scalp is healthy, there are a few foods that you should avoid and replace them with fresh fruits and vegetables. They include too many sweets, chocolate, cakes and cookies. Unfortunately, these favorites simply don't do a thing for your hair.

Eye Makeup Tips

Remedies For Puffy Eyes :

• Take a metal spoon and run it under cold water. Place the metal on the puffy area for at least 60 seconds.
  Apply hemorrhoid cream (look for brands that contain ingredients of yeast and shark's liver oil) to the puffy area. Insiders have known for years that in just the way it gets the swelling out of that other area, it works the same way for the face.
  
• Thin cucumber slices used as compresses over closed eyes will relieve sore, puffy eyes.

Lining Eyes :

• Dust a sheer, loose powder on the upper and lower lids so the eyeliner sticks better. If you are going to curl your lashes, do it now. (Otherwise you could smudge the line.).
  
• Choose the right formula. For a cleanstraight line, use a liquid version (try one with felt tip, like those from Lancome or L'Oreal). To create a softer, more subtle line, pencils are best.

Curl And Lengthen Your Eyelashes :

Draw wand out of mascara tube and remove access on a piece of paper towel.Hold wand horizontally and slowly twirl as you move the brush from the roots to the tips.To set curl, hold wand and lashes together at the tips for a several seconds.Apply second coat before the first coat has dried to avoid clumping.Apply mascara carefully to the bottom lashes, holding wand vertically.While lashes are still wet, comb through the lashes (carefully) with a lash comb to separate each lash.

Make Him Melt With Big, Doe Eyes :

Eyeliner is the magic wand for creating the illusion of bigger, more expressive eyes. Line the entire top lash line and extend the line slightly at the corners. You can also line the bottom of your eyes, but concentrate color only on the outer third and extend it slightly past the edge. (We're not talking Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra here.) A soft, smoky look will open your eyes more than a thin, hard line. Stick to dark, neutral colors with a hint of black for lining, as bright shades will only make them seem smaller.

Emphasize Eyes :

For evening glamour, line the inside of lower lids with navy, violet or jade eye pencil.

Bloodshot Eyes :

An easy way to reduce the redness is to scoop cold water into your hands and splash it on your closed eyes. This should be enought to reduce the capillaries. If this isn't enough, mild drops that can be found at your local drug store may be required. Also be certain that the cause of the redness is not attributed to an irritation to your eye shadow or mascara.

Choose Green :

Any greens in your makeup bag? There should be if you have a habit of wearing taupe, aqua, pale blue or even whites. Pearly greens ranging from almost a yellow-green to a moss green will work well. The only word of warning is that pearly shades will emphasize crepey eyes so give this some thought first

COSMETIC TIP!! :

Eyeliner...the best is liquid but if your hand is just a little too shaky and you end up with a mess...try lining with a pencil and then lining over it with cake liner...much easier to handle!

Eye Liner Pencil Safety :

Before using, sharpen your eye liner pencil to remove any bacteria that has built up.

Eye Makeup and Eye Infections :

If you have been suffering from recurring eye infections, it could be your eye makeup. These products can easily be contaminated with germs and as a result, be the cause of the infection.

Eye Shadow Application After 40 :

You might notice a tendency for your lids to appear somewhat crepey. This makes shadow application more difficult. To counteract this, stay away from bright colors. Subtley is what you are looking for at this point as softer colors are far more flattering and less aging.

Eyeliner That Is Too Harsh :

If you don't like the sharpness of your eyeliner, you can soften it by adding a little powder shadow in a similair shade with your eye shadow brushEyeshadow That Stays In Place :
Melting eyeshadow is a problem for all of us but there is a way to make it "stick" a little longer. I have found that if you use a damp eyeshadow brush and apply a layer of face powder to your lids and allow to set, the shadow will stay in place for the day. Takes an extra second or so but the effort is well worth it.

New Use For Gold Pencil :

After applying your lipstick, highlight your bottom lip with just a dab of gold. It won't be noticeable but it will make a big difference.

Powder Liner Know How :

If you line your eyes with a powder shadow and it simply goes everywhere as you apply it, do so while holding a tissue directly beneath your eye to catch the shadow particles. Works every time.

Sponge Tip Applicators :

This is the first time that I have seen information that gives you a reason not to throw these applicators away. I read about this practise recently and decided to give it a try. Instead, of using a brush for light colors, use the sponge applicator. It picks up more color and gives you better coverage. I tried this and it does work. Actually, I like it even better than the eye shadow brushes. I wouldn't suggest using it for dark colors however.

To Make Eyes Look Younger :

The first step is to apply a little eye cream on the brow bone and under the eye. this will reduce fine lines. Now dab on a concealer that matches your skin tones. The last step is to line the eye with a white pencil just beneath the lash line. It will give the impression of larger and brighter eyes.

Using an Eye Shadow Pencil :

Don't draw the pencil across your eyelid as this could cause stretching of the skin. Instead, apply the color to the palm of your hand, pick up some of the color with your pinky and apply gently to eyelid.

Where To Use Golden Eye Shadow :

Use a touch on the brow bone to make your eyes look even brighter. You can use powder or one of those fat pencils. I have even used that liquid highlighter in a bottle and it gives good results too.

Eyebrow Makeup Tips

Filling In Your Eyebrows :

Brush brows downward with a dry, mascara-like wand. To define the arch, use the pencil to draw a line along the upper edge of the brow. Comb the brows upward and outward.

If brows have been severely overtweezed, brush the hairs in the direction of the growth, and fill in any visible patches with powder. Avoid adding to the top or bottom of the brows.

Control Your Brows :

• Brush brows straight up and then check for hairs that are too long.
• Snip any offending hair one at a time with a small pair of scissors.
• Brush brows downward and check again.
• Repeat the previous step, snipping any hair that seems to be too long.
• Brush brows into place and check for any hairs that still might need attention.
• Continue brushing and snipping until your brows can be brushed into place naturally.

Perfect Eyebrows :

Brush brows upward. Carefully trim any excess hair above the top of your natural arch. Be careful not to take off too much at the ends or you'll have brow "bald" spots.

Fill in sparse areas with a freshly sharpened brow pencil; use light, quick strokes to draw in hair. Brow powder will give thin brows overall definition, and is great for a more natural look. Using the brow brush, sweep powder up and outward over brows. If you're a brow novice, a tinted brow gel is a foolproof way to keep brows in place. Lightly coat brows using upward and outward strokes. Wipe off any excess and allow it to set.

Brow Color :
Did you know that brows should be a little lighter than your hair color? Yes, it's true...about two shades.However, if you are blond or gray, the opposite is true.

Brow Color :
Did you know that brows should be a little lighter than your hair color? Yes, it's true...about two shades.
However, if you are blond or gray, the opposite is true.

Are You Happy With The Look of Your Brows? :
If you have tried and tried and just can't get them right, perhaps a trip to the salon is in order. Have a staff member wax your brows (it doesn't take very long) and it will show you exactly what they could look like. After that, all you need to do is a little maintenance every week.

Brow Shapes For Very Small Eyes :
The last thing you need is heavy looking brows. Slowly remove some of the excess from the bottom of the brow.

Brow Shapes For Wide Set Eyes :
Follow the same instructions as those given for close set eyes but begin the brows just a little closer to the nose.

But it Hurts :
If plucking is just a little more painful that you can stand, you can apply a little Ambesol (from the drugstore) to numb the area.

Dyeing Your Eyebrows :
Don't attempt this at home. It a very dangerous thing to attempt that could result in blinding yourself. I'm including this tip because a reader asked for my thoughts on trying it themselves. I suggest checking out your cosmetic counter for the brow color that comes in tubes just like mascara. It will only take you seconds to apply and there is not danger.

Eyebrow Tip :
Did you know that your eyebrow is supposed to start directly above the inner corner of your eye? The hightest point should be just a little beyond the outer corner of the iris and should taper off to the end! So now you know!

Soothe Those Brow Tips :
If your Brow Tips Tips are red and irritated from plucking, soothe the area with the help of a few cool, wet, tea bags. It will help immediately.

Sparse Eyebrows :
One you have overplucked your brows, they simply might not grow back. So what do you do about sparse looking brows? Try this. Brush the brows down and then with an angled brush, apply a little color along the top of each brow. Carefully brush brows back into place and check to see if there are any gaps. If so, touch them up with a little powder and then set with a bit of gel on a brush or clear mascara.

Toothbrush Those Brows :
If you are having trouble taming those brows, here is another little trick. Take a toothbrush and spray with a little hair spray and then brush on brows. The stickiness of the hair spray will help keep them in place.

Trimming Brows :
This is another alternative to tweezing. Brush them up and the really long hairs will be very visible. Instead of tweezing and creating a hole, snip it with a pair of tiny scissors. Works wonderfully.

When Not To Pluck :
Try not to pluck right before your period. If it's going to hurt, this will be the time.

Blushing Tips

Are You Blushing? :
Did you know that there is nothing like a little blush to perk you up after a long day at the office. You might be feeling exhausted, but you would be surprised what a little blush will accomplish. Carry it with you at all times.

Combining The Colors You Have :
Do you have a few of shades of blush in your makeup collection? Most of us do, so try combining the colors to make new ones. The possibilities are endless. Try combining pinks and peaches together. You will be surprised at the shades you can create.

Do I Add More? :
There are two ways to know if you have enough blush to perk up your coloring. Either wait until all of your makeup is in place and then apply your blush or, apply a first layer of blush and then check it again when your makeup is complete to see if the intensity is right. It's your choice. Both will work.

Don't Put Blush Here :
Don't be tempted to put blush on your chin. I know that it seems to give a sun kissed look but your neck is usually lighter than your face and the blush is going to draw your attention to this fact in a big way. You can put a dusting of blush on the tendons below the ears however! It can be a very pretty touch.

Dramatic Cheekbones :
Before you turn to sculpting perfect cheekbones, finish your eye makeup and your lipstick application so that you can judge the correct amount of color required. It will be very easy to use too much. You are after balance and this can be done if the eyes and lips are taken care of first.

How are Blusher Gels Different? :
Gel blushes are for the very young or those with impeccable skin. It will look as if you aren't wearing a thing and the touch of color will look so natural. They don't seem to have the lasting power of the cream and powder combination.

How To Tone Down Blush :
Did you make a bad purchase? According to Gale Hayman, author of "How Do I Look", sometimes brushing a little face powder over the bright blush will tone it down nicely.

Life Expectancy of Blush :
A good rule of thumb is to toss it after 6 months. I know that the compact won't be close to empty but six months is plenty long enough to transfer bacteria to the powder and you don't want to transfer that to your face. Just a little scratch is all it would take to start an infection. And keep your blush brush as clean as possible!

Make Your Blush Last Longer :
It doesn't take as long to sweep a little powdered shadow onto your cheekbones, but it just doesn't last very long. Try this instead. Smooth on a little cream blush and then apply the powdered shadow in the same shade family and watch how long the color lasts now.

Makeup Tip :
Blush can be a nightmare for some. Just where exactly does it go? Well, in a nutshell, here goes. You look for the fullest part of your cheek and thats where your blush goes. Take your blush brush and sweep the color back toward the temple. Its that simple. Now, here is a little trick. Once you have your blush in place, take a cotton ball and blend until you have just a hint of natural looking color. Subtle is the key word here. No strips of color please.

Natural Looking Blush :
There are lots of little tricks to use with blush. Here's one of them. Apply it after your moisturizer but before your foundation. This technique will give you a natural glow of color that is very subtle.

Should I Suck In My Cheeks? :
I see this so often when I'm at the mall. Women apparently think that they are supposed to suck in their cheeks and then sweep a band of color beneath their cheekbones. Apparently, that is exactly what it looks like. I don't know who made up that rule of application, but it doesn't work. Color should be applied on the apple of your cheek and then blend the color up to your hairline.

Staying Power Blush Tip :
If your blush won't stay on it could be because your skin is too oily. Try using a mild astringent on the cheek area before applying the blush. Start out with a cream blush, topped off with a little powder and top it off with a dry blusher. Remember to blend it well.

What Color is My Natural Blush Color? :
You want a color that is natural but have no way of knowing what that color might be?? Here's a quick way to find out. Check out your face when you come in from the cold. You will see your natural color AND you will see where you blush naturally as well.

Why Don't Blushers Stay On :
Have you asked yourself this question a million times? Okay, here is what could be causing your problem. You have oily skin. You might want to use a mild astringent before you put on your makeup. Now for the blusher. If you love cream blushers like I do, all is not lost. You can still use it. Just be sure to apply a light layer of face powder over the cream blush followed by a layer of dry blush. Using two different textures will ensure that the color lasts as long as you want it to.

Under Eye Dark Circles

Under Eye Dark Circles - Treatment Tips

Causes-
Dark unsightly circles around the eyes can leave you looking ill, haggard and depressed. While there can be many causes for dark eye circles, the upshot is that you end up looking older than you probably are. Look for ways to camouflage the dark under eye circles. Find out simple home remedies to reduce the dark under eye circles and add sparkle to your eyes. Dark Eye Circle - The skin below our eyes is thin and is not as well endowed with oil glands as the rest of the body. Consequently as we age, the skin gets dry and wrinkled. As a result, the veins in the lower eye area appear more prominent. This results in dark circles under the eyes. There are many factors that lead to dark circles. Heredity – Dark under eye circles are often an inherited trait. Those who are prone to allergies or itchy skin condition are susceptible to dark circles since inflammation and rubbing of eyes can thicken and darken the skin around them. Some food allergies can also cause the area under the eyes to appear darker. Excess folds of skin under the eyes will also make dark circles more pronounced. Lack of Sleep – Lack of sleep and fatigue can cause the skin to grow wan and pale. This makes blood vessels under the eyes to appear more visible and dark. The paleness that occurs with fatigue, a cold or sinus infection or during menstruation or pregnancy may accentuate the circles under the eyes. Partying all night and smoking can play havoc with your skin and result in dark eye circles. Bone Structure – Deep set eyes may have a tendency to develop dark shadows under them. In fair-skinned persons, dark eyes become more obvious. Sun Exposure – Increased exposure to the sun can draw pigmentation the skin’s surface and create dark circles. Medication – Drugs that cause blood vessels to dilate may result in darkening circles around the eyes. Nutrition – Dark circle around the eyes can be the result of poor nutrition. Hormonal Changes – Since the skin undergoes changes during pregnancy and menstruation, you may notice darkening of the circles under the eyes. Combat Dark Eye Circles -
Combat dark circles under your eyes with simple tips:

1. Drink nearly 10 glasses of water everyday.
2. Ensure that you get good rest and adequate sleep.
3. Eat vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin A.
4. Consume a nutritionally balanced diet.

Tips 1: Grate 2' piece of cucumber. Squeeze through a muslin cloth and extract the juice. Dip cotton pads in this and place on eyelids. Relax for 15 minutes.
Tips 2: Take 1 tspn Tomato pulp,1 pinch of Turmeric powder ½ tspn of limejuice and 1 tspn of gram flour. Make a paste and apply gently. Remove gently with moist cotton pads after ½ an hour.
Tips 3: Soak 2 Almonds overnight. Peel and grind to a smooth paste. Add a few drops of limejuice to this Apply for 20-25 minutes. This should be followed daily and gradually after 2 weeks, every 3rd day and finally when the difference is visible, to once aeek. A paste of Almonds can be stored in a clean bottle in the 'fridge.
Tips 4: Apply a paste made by crushing a handful of Mint leaves.

• Dip wads of cotton in a chilled mixture of cucumber and potato juice. Keep this on your eyelids for 15 to 20 minutes and gently wash it off. Apply a little baby oil.
• For long eyelashes, apply a thin coat of castor oil every night. It strengthens lashes and cools your eyes.
• Massage a few drops of coconut oil around the eyes to get rid off dark circles.
• To reduce puffiness of your eyes, grate a potato; tie in a cloth and place the cloth over your eyes for about 15 minutes.
• Add a small pinch of salt in water and wash for bright and sparkling eyes.
• Mix tomato juice and lemon juice in equal quantity and apply around the eyes. After 30 minutes wash it off with cold and hot water alternatively.
• Make a paste of sandal wood and nutmeg. Apply the paste around the eyes before sleeping and wash it off in the morning.
• Crush a cucumber and take the juice. Add a little rose water and apply around the eyes and wash it after 30 minutes.
• Place cotton wool swabs dipped in cold milk on closed eyes for removing dark circles.

Treatments & Remedies -

1. Dark Circles can be removed by applying peeled and grated potato overnight at least three times a week.
2. Make cotton pads and dip them in cucumber juice. Place on your eyes for 15 minutes. The effect is cooling and relaxes your eyes.
3. Massaging eyes with almond oil is of great help. Massage at bed time daily, and in two weeks you will see the difference.
4. Dark circles can be removed by doing pranayam daily for at least five minutes.
5. Pressing the mount below index finger of the palm is good for eyesight and removing dark circles.
6. When stressed, keep your eyes covered with cucumber slices for some time.
7. Dip cotton balls in rose water and keep for 5-10 minutes. Drink as much water as you can drink.
8. Dip cotton balls in chilled water and keep for 5-10 minutes on the eyes.
9. Take a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and avoid reading late at night, lying down.
10. Every morning, after washing your face, gently apply mixture of equal parts of tomato and lime juice; wash after half an hour.
11. Alternate hot and cold compresses under your eyes for 10 minutes. Then apply a teaspoon of almond oil mixed with half teaspoon of lime juice on the dark surface every night before going to bed.
12. For cooling effect to eyes paste of the herb nutmeg (Jaiphala) made with milk may be applied all around the eyes and over the eyelids.

Home Remedies - Probably the most popular home remedy for dark eye circles is to apply slices of raw potato or cucumber over the eyelids for about 15 minutes. Grated raw potato wrapped in cheesecloth can also be used. Potatoes contain catecholase, an enzyme that is used as a skin lightener in many cosmetics. You can apply freshly grated cucumber or the resultant juice over the eyes to lighten the area. Almonds are considered excellent skin food and it is believed that a paste of almonds applied over the eyes for about 10 minutes can go a long way in reducing dark under eye bags. Alternatively you can apply rich almond oil under the eyes. Vitamin E or olive oil is also regularly used in treating dark circles around the eyes. Another popular home remedy for dark eye circles is to place cool, used tea bags on the tired eyes. Applying crushed mint leaves around the eyes can also reduce dark circles.
Creams - Topical creams that have Vitamin K derivatives are prescribed for reducing dark eye circles. Antioxidant products containing Vitamins C and E are known to stimulate fibroblast activity in the dermal layer and help firm up the skin. This can greatly reduce baggy eyes that are dark and sagging. Over-the-counter products containing kinetin or AHA are available for regular use to reduce severe under eye circles. Chemical peels may be effective in reducing chronic dark eye circles.
Makeup - Using an under eye concealer is the best way to hide the unsightly dark circles. Do not choose a shade that is much lighter than your skin tone else it will accentuate the baggy dark circles. Dab concealer gently under the eyes and blend it with the foundation. The inner corner of your eye is usually the darkest part, so ensure that it is well concealed. Rev up your tired looking eyes with gold-based concealers. Avoid mascara and eyeliner to the lower lashes for fear of drawing attention to the dark under eye circles.